Historical holidays
To cruise Europe’s waterways is to cruise back in time. Our routes are packed with both famous historical sites to see and lesser-known historical holiday spots to discover. There’s nothing like the sight of an ancient castle, a medieval chateau, or a gothic cathedral popping into view as you come around the bend in a river—except perhaps mooring and going ashore to examine Italian Renaissance art or view the Berlin Wall! Every one of our regions has historical sites to discover.
The best boating destinations for historical holidays
Canal du Midi, France
Sail along the Canal du Midi to discover wonders of the past, such as the giant stronghold of the thirteenth century built in Carcassonne. Along your trip, discover typical French villages and dynamic cities full of history like Narbonne.
Flanders, Belgium
Belgium hosts many important cities stamped into history. Visit magical Ghent, a wonder of Europe with its architecture, great museums and patrimony and don't miss Bruges with its numerous monuments and market places.
Mecklenburg & Brandenburg, Germany
Along your cruise you will encounter the mighty city of Berlin, one of the most beautiful in the world, and discover its many impressive sites like the Brandebourg Gate or the Berliner Dom; dive into the German culture and go to Potsdam and discover the unique architecture of the coloured Sanssouci Palace and its large verdant gardens.
Thames, England
Soak up the stately and historic atmosphere of the Thames. Visit its many sites, like the magnificent royal Castle of Windsor and its impressive park, take time to visit Reading and sample its rich gastronomy and monuments. Plus, don't miss the chance to marvel at the stately Cliveden House.
Alsace-Lorraine, France
Enter the historic region of Alsace and observe magical cities like the dynamic Strasbourg, a tasty mixture between culture and heritage. Discover typical floral towns like Saverne, which are part of the local culture for their architecture and gastronomy.
Shannon & Erne, Ireland
Sail along the River Shannon and read Ireland’s history along the various cities you will cross. Discover the old Athlone, a fortified city rich of history; feel the charm of the country by seeing its numerous vestiges of the past, like Clonmacnoise. Come and enjoy the Irish culture and hospitality.
Venice & Friuli, Italy
Italy is rich in history and culture. Come under the sun and discover unique cities like Venice, a jewel of architecture and culture who has to be visited; walk along the coloured pedestrian streets of Murano and have a break in one of its numerous restaurants, or discover the great history of the medieval Burano, a welcoming city with beautiful sights, especially in the squares.
Looking for more holiday inspiration?
Take a look at all our inspiration pages to see what else you could discover on your Le Boat holiday.