Explore by Land
Our resident Program Directors bring each port to life with
deeper discoveries and richer experiences
Traveling by river ship gives us the greatest access to the world’s most fabled ports. And once we drop anchor at a
riverside pier, your international discovery is just beginning. Grand Circle’s exclusive shore excursions and included tours will show you everything you’ve dreamed of seeing—and more. And thanks to the expertise of our resident Program Directors, you’ll experience your destination’s most storied sights—from 16th-century Baroque castles in Germany to the scenic Yangtze River gorges in China—all through the eyes of an expert. Accompanied by those who know them best, you’ll walk hallowed halls and gaze at inspiring landscapes, learning about the history and legends that make each destination unique.
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We’re the only company with resident Program Directors
No one knows a place better than someone who lives and works there. That’s why Grand Circle hand-picks Program Directors who hail from the destinations you’ll visit. And unlike other travel companies who rely on local guides crew to accompany you ashore, we make sure that your expertly trained Program Director joins you on every included tour.
Beyond showing you the important monuments—which any guide can do—our Program Directors and expert local guides can offer a more personal perspective on the customs, politics, and local issues that many American travelers miss. Plus, they’ll share what they love most about their countries, from local legends and hidden treasures to popular cafes and local shops. You’ll see for yourself how today’s local “landmarks” fit in with centuries-old cultural icons.
Explore in-depth with our exclusive Discovery Series events
As unique and informative as our included sightseeing tours are, we don’t stop there. Only Grand Circle takes you one step further, connecting you to local culture through our enriching Discovery Series events. These exclusive cultural encounters and learning activities are woven into every trip, each revealing special nuances of your destination.
When you travel with us, you won’t just be a spectator—you’ll be a participant. Sample the flavors of France at a local market in Paris. Chat with schoolchildren in Croatia or WWII -veterans in Russia. Hear a fascinating discussion on German Life Since 1933 or join a traditional German folk dance. We’ve designed these experiences so you’ll gain a richer understanding of your destinations—and have fun in the process!
Our signature Home-Hosted Visits introduce you to local life
Originated by Grand Circle Travel, our popular Home-Hosted visits bring you into local residents’ homes for friendly conversation, gracious hospitality—and often, a freshly baked cake or home-cooked meal. And not only will you become immersed in the cultural traditions and everyday customs of your hosts’ country, but you’ll have the chance to ask them questions about their daily lives. Sitting around a table, sharing cuisine and conversation—this naturally brings you closer to your destination. And by the time the last plate is cleared, you’re likely to have made new friends.
The freedom to create your own experience
Most travel companies include a lot of activities and tours, and you’re obligated to pay for them—even if you don’t find them of interest. But with Grand Circle, you always have the choice to do—and pay for—as much or little as you wish. Our leisurely pacing, free time, and generous scheduled activities allow you to create the vacation you’ve always dreamed of. You may fill your days with included tours and activities; explore ports at your own pace; relax and watch the passing scenery from our comfortable lounge or Sun Deck—or do all of the above from one day to the next! To gain a fuller view of your destination and delve more deeply into your
interests, each of our River Cruise itineraries also offers an a la carte selection of optional tours that highlight a particular site or aspect of the places you visit.
Every Grand Circle River Cruise also features optional pre- and post-trip extensions—including several alternatives in some cases—a claim our competitors simply can’t make. This means you can enjoy a more comfortable pace, while adding another city or country to your explorations. Plus, our extensions allow you to take advantage of your already-included international airfare and maximize the value of your travel dollar—even as you linger leisurely in elegant Vienna, uncover the Ukranian culture of Kiev, or bask in the
cultural richness of Paris.