Italian River Cruises – Ticking the Boxes for a Perfect Holiday

Would Italian river cruises through areas such as Lombardy give you the sort of holiday you’ll enjoy? If you're considering such a holiday, you might wish to ask yourself some of the following questions. A positive answer to any of them should be considered a big tick in the box for Italian river cruises.

Do you like an active but slow-paced holiday?

Italian river cruises aren't just about sitting in a deck chair watching the world go by - there is walking, cycling and exploration to keep you fit and active. Even so, it’s certainly not about zooming from one sight to another at a thousand miles an hour. So, if you like whipping from site to site or simply spending entire days lying on the sand, then perhaps cruising’s not for you.

Are you likely to fall in love with the art and history?

Maybe you already have. If either is the case, you’ll love the chance to cruise slowly into famous centres of history (such as Venice) to take in all of the many Italian cultural treasures on offer.

Do you love the countryside?

Looking at the wonders of great Italian historical cities such as Venice or Mantua is a magnificent way to spend time, but your vessel will also cruise through some of the most evocative countryside in the north of the country. If the thought of seeing authentic local rural life appeals, as well as perhaps sometimes being able to participate in some of it through visits and demonstrations, then that’s a big plus.

Is fine dining more to your taste than fast food and bland international cuisine?

If the answer's yes, you’ll love passing through one of the great gastronomic centres of the world. You’ll taste the very best of Italian cuisine using only the finest local ingredients. Warning – you may need to watch your waistline!

Do you like meeting like-minded people?

Cruises can be either entirely dedicated to your party or shared with others. Conversation and learning about your fellow voyagers is something that interests many people - but not necessarily all. If you prefer to isolate yourself then the friendly, convivial atmosphere on board might not necessarily appeal.

Would you like to learn on your holiday?

Cruises aren’t mobile classrooms but sometimes guides and experts can help to put into context some of the sights you’ll be seeing the following day. It can make a huge difference to your enjoyment once you arrive at the spot concerned. Of course, some prefer just a quick snap for the album and then to move on to the next trophy site.

Do the above points sound like you?

Ultimately, you will decide whether this type of holiday is for you or not. However, if you have answered yes to at least some of the above questions, it might be worthwhile thinking carefully about Italian river cruises for your next holiday.

Paul Newman is the Marketing and E-Systems Executive for European Waterways, a provider of luxury, all-inclusive barge holidays. If you're looking for Italian river cruises, the country has some of the world's most picturesque waterways. We also offer experiences in France, Holland and the UK.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.