What is the Best Month to take a European Cruise?

Whether it’s the Spring, Summer or Autumn months, we’ll help you find the best time for a barge cruise. From the colourful tulip fields of Holland in April to the atmospheric mist of the Scottish Highlands in October – there’s something beautiful and unique about each and every month. Whenever you choose to cruise, you can be assured of an ever-changing vista and an unforgettable slow-travel adventure that showcases the best of each season…

renaissancecrusing2

April

  • The peaceful countryside comes alive with colours: tulips are in bloom in Holland, and the snow-capped Pyrenees are visible from the Canal du Midi
  • The market squares return to life as townsfolk set up their stalls for the coming season, and the Easter parades take place
  • Often airfares are lower, with value cruise rates available

Keukenhof Gardens

May

  • Verdant growth and birdsong in full swing along the towpath and throughout the European countryside, it’s a paradise for nature enthusiasts
  • Warming temperatures create the perfect conditions for sightseeing and cycling alongside the canals
  • Ideal for champagne lovers, cruise through the lush sloping vineyards and sample the bubbly delights of France’s most effervescent region

Biking aboard Panache - barge cruise europe

June

  • Balmy Summer evenings mean digestifs, jazz bands on deck, and a game of boules on the bank
  • Sunny weather throughout Europe, and seemingly endless days of sunlight in the Scottish Highlands, June is a wonderful time to explore without the Summer crowds
  • Enjoy a refreshing pint of ale at a Thames-side pub; smell the roses and sip an Elderflower Collins’ made with your favourite Gin

jazzband

July

  • Incredible Bastille Day Fireworks at Carcassonne, the Tour de France, plus Art, Garden & Food Festivals galore in Italy, France and the UK
  • Fields of ripening corn fringe the canals as the harvest begins; a wonderful time to collect wild herbs with your on-board chef
  • Value rates across most of our cruise regions ­– could July be the best time for a barge holiday for you?

Burgundy in the summer months

August

  • Glorious colour in the Scottish Highlands and Opera al fresco at the magnificent Arena di Verona in Italy
  • The vineyards are abuzz as the wine harvest begins in the South of France
  • School holidays and value fares make this the perfect time for a private whole barge Family Charter Cruise

3G Family Barge Cruises

September

  • The grape pickers are out across France with the wine harvest now in full flow
  • Many regions enjoy cultural events such as the countrywide French Cuisine Festival and the Regata Storica in Venice
  • Temperate clear days ensure the ideal climate for exploration and photography

Wine Harvest Alexandre Bonnet

October

  • Atmospheric early morning mist over the water, gorgeous Autumnal foliage everywhere and the second burst of Highland Heather in Scotland
  • The fruits of Autumn make it high time to indulge in a gastronomic journey, with seasonal delicacies such as truffles, mushrooms, and game to be enjoyed
  • Value rates, and your last chance to cruise until next year!

Scotland in the autumn months

Found the Best Time for a Barge Cruise?

Still struggling to pick the best time for a barge trip for your travel needs? Our dedicated Cruise Specialists are on hand to help you find the perfect time to travel, and cruise to suit you!

Order your free copy of our brochure today, speak to a member of our team directly using our handy Contact Form. Alternatively, send us an email at [email protected]

Share this article

X