by Lacey Pfalz
Last updated: 10:05 AM ET, Mon October 2, 2023
Rivers have long been the lifeblood of civilizations’ past and present, and today, travelers can visit some of the bastions of history and local heritage on a river cruise with AmaWaterways.
From Zimbabwe’s Victoria Falls to Germany’s Cologne Cathedral, AmaWaterways offers opportunities to visit a large selection of UNESCO-designated sites. UNESCO World Heritage Sites, whether natural or historical, demonstrate universal value and are thus protected by the organization.
Aboard an AmaWaterways cruise, travelers can be introduced to some of the world’s most breathtaking sites, from the Mekong to the Rhine.
Danube River History and Heritage
The Danube River is one of Europe’s main waterways, and is a direct connection from Germany to Eastern Europe. For thousands of years, people have lived their lives along the river, and their impact stands as some incredible World Heritage Sites, like the medieval town of Regensburg in Germany; the Christian Necropolis in Mohacs, Hungary; and the scenic Wachau Valley in Germany.
Travelers onboard an AmaWaterways cruise on the Danube can also be immersed with local culture and heritage in more hands-on ways, too, like meeting a local vintner at their winery and getting a hosted wine tasting by the people who make it themselves, or learning to make Bulgarian yogurt and banitsa at a local’s home in Vidin, Bulgaria.
Rhine River History and Heritage
Much like the Danube, travelers sailing along the Rhine River will find scenic castles, villages and towns spread along the river like gems on a piece of jewelry. Along the way, travelers can visit UNESCO sites like the Gothic Cologne Cathedral, the stunning Rhine River Gorge, the Speyer Cathedral and the charming town of Freiburg, founded in 1120.
Travelers along the Rhine can enjoy immersive experiences with local heritage like a visit to a tavern in Cologne to sample locally made brews with pastries, to a tasting of Rüdesheimer coffee, made with brandy and whipped cream.
Magdalena River History and Heritage
The immersive history and heritage onboard AmaWaterways isn’t just for its European river cruises: it’s for all of them, including its new Magdalena River cruises in Colombia, debuting in 2024.
On a cruise along the biodiverse Magdalena River in Colombia, travelers will be introduced to the UNESCO-designated historic part of Cartagena and Palenque, which is considered a Masterpiece of Oral and Intangible Heritage and Humanity by UNESCO.
Cultural immersion experiences abound, with plentiful musical and culinary opportunities to enjoy. Colombia is a place where local Indigenous, African and European cultures combine and are present in everything from food to dances, such as cumbia.
AmaWaterways Offers History, Differently
Discover local heritage, traditions and stories onboard an AmaWaterways cruise, where history just feels different. Visit the line’s website to learn about the other incredible places and attractions you could visit onboard a river cruise today.
Additionally, travel advisors who want to learn more about the experiences available on an AmaWaterways itinerary should register for the line’s Webinar Wednesdays, a series of weekly discussions and information hosted by members of the cruise line.
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