Enjoying the Outstanding Cuisine of Italy on River Cruises

If you have your heart set on one of Europe's stunning river cruises, Italy can deliver you some unique experiences. One of those is, of course, the country's incomparable cuisine. On-board chefs work hard to ensure that everything you'll eat is indicative of the country and they use the best local seasonal produce. So if you head off on one of the river cruises, Italy will not disappoint with its array of spectacular cuisine. Here are just some examples of what you can expect to enjoy while on your holiday on the water.

Dispelling the myths

On the subject of cuisine, you’ll quite often come across some commonplace myths in this country, such as: Italian food is all about pasta and pizza; it’s very strong in garlic and olive oil; things are very similar all over the country. Frankly, these things are simply not true.

Firstly, Italian food comprises just about everything you can think of fish, game, meat, salads, pies – it’s all there. In fact, little upsets some Italians more than the suggestion that their cuisine is based around spaghetti or pizza. Of course, the country does the best pasta and pizza you’ll find anywhere in the world but you’ll also find a vast range of other traditions.

It’s also worth keeping in mind that different parts of the country have very different culinary traditions. For example, Alpine Italian food is broadly similar to that found in Alpine France or Austria. It’s typically comfort food that’s beautiful and based around lots of stews, pies, cheeses and game. By contrast, down south or around the Adriatic you may find a much greater emphasis on seafood. Finally, don’t believe the Italian food you'll have prepared for you on your cruise will all be about tomatoes olive oil and garlic – it's far more subtle than that.

The typical Italian meal

Italians do eat fast food – they invented the pizza for that purpose (well, so some claim).However, they also like to sit down and eat relaxed meals with family and friends.On river cruises, Italy will open up some of these delights to you – if you'll allow the experience its full rein.

A typical slightly more formal Italian meal on board might comprise the following:

• Antipasti – these can vary but might be plates of meat, biscuits, little snacks and so on.• Pasta – usually simply served, perhaps in sauce or garnished with fresh mushrooms or some herbs. Contrary to many misconceptions, pasta is not always the main course of the meal.• The main course – this is often simple but might include things such as freshly grilled fish or meat served with vegetables.• The sweet – and Italian sweets will challenge your best waistline-reducing intentions!• Some digestives – possibly including some liquors, chocolates and so on.

There are some very significant regional variations and practices may vary. On board the best vessels you'll have a team of excellent chefs preparing some the region’s classic dishes - it’s an experience you won’t forget.

The wine

Italians smile indulgently when the French claim to have the world’s best wines. There’s no way to describe the many and varied Italian wines other than to say ‘try them’. And you'll have plenty of opportunities to do that on board your vessel. Just a word worth mentioning – do drink in moderation with your meal.

When it comes to river cruises, Italy is certainly one of the best destinations you can choose. Packed with culture, history and of course fabulous cuisine, there's nothing left to want for as you drift along on your hotel barge.

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 river cruises, Italy 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.