Google Trends data shows UK interest in authentic travel at record levels as Riviera unveils a collection of exclusive experiences for 2028 river cruise guests.
Private concerts, behind-the-scenes cultural immersive travel experiences and exclusive food and wine events are becoming increasingly sought after by travellers looking for experiences they cannot easily arrange themselves.
With Google Trends data showing UK interest in “authentic travel” reaching record levels in the past year, Riviera Travel is responding to growing demand for behind the scenes, access-led travel with the launch of The Riviera Moment, a collection of exclusive experiences available on selected 2028 river cruises.
Available only to Riviera guests, The Riviera Moment has been designed to provide access to experiences that go beyond traditional sightseeing, offering private events, exclusive venues and unique cultural encounters across some of Europe’s most popular river cruise destinations.
The launch forms part of Riviera Travel’s wider focus on creating more personalised holidays, with guests increasingly looking to tailor their travel experiences through optional excursions, extended stays and immersive local experiences. Alongside The Riviera Moment, Riviera’s 2028 river cruise programme includes more than 60 Excursion Choices and over 50 Personalise Your Holiday experiences.
Will Sarson – Product Director at Riviera Travel, said:
“Travellers are increasingly looking for immersive travel experiences that help them connect more deeply with the destinations they visit. While iconic landmarks remain important, we’re seeing growing demand for experiences that offer something more personal, exclusive and memorable.”
“The Riviera Moment was created in response to that demand. These experiences give our guests access to places, performances and cultural encounters that would be difficult to arrange independently, creating moments that become genuine highlights of a holiday.”
The Riviera Moment collection will be available across a range of 2028 river cruise itineraries and includes:
House of Strauss, Vienna
Guests on The Blue Danube itinerary will enjoy a private concert at the historic House of Strauss, the last original venue where the Strauss family performed, alongside an opportunity to explore the story behind one of Vienna’s most famous musical dynasties behind closed doors.
Kloster Eberbach, Germany
Available on Rhine Cruise to Switzerland, this exclusive evening includes a sparkling wine reception and tasting at the historic abbey before enjoying the Basilica and a musical performance, exclusively for Riviera for guests.
Villa Caroube, Rhône Valley
Guests sailing on Burgundy, the River Rhône and Provence will enjoy regional wines, local specialities and live music at a private villa overlooking some of the Rhône Valley’s best-known vineyards.
Musée des Impressionnismes Giverny, France
Available on The Seine, Paris and Normandy itinerary, this experience offers exclusive access to the museum celebrating the Impressionist movement, followed by drinks and canapés at a venue reserved for Riviera guests.
The launch of The Riviera Moment comes as Riviera Travel continues to expand the range of experiences available across its river cruise programme, giving guests greater flexibility to shape their holiday around their interests and travel style.
The Riviera Moment will be available on selected departures across Riviera Travel’s 2028 river cruise collection, which goes on sale from 9 September 2026. To mark the launch, guests booking selected 2028 river cruises can take advantage of Riviera Travel’s Upper Deck for Middle Deck Price offer, available for a limited period. Guests can also benefit from low deposits and savings on selected sailings
Offer terms:
The Upper Deck for Middle Deck Price offer applies to selected 2028 river cruise departures and is available for a limited time only. The offer is subject to availability, applies to new bookings only and cannot be used in conjunction with any other offer unless stated. Terms and conditions apply.
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