If you’re planning a river cruise vacation, you might be wondering whether you should add a pre or post cruise extension to your trip. Here are a few reasons why adding an extension might be a good idea:

More time to explore: One of the biggest benefits of adding a pre or post river cruise extension is that it gives you more time to explore the destinations on your itinerary. With a longer trip, you’ll be able to see more sights and participate in more activities, making your trip even more memorable.

Nearby destinations: Another reason to consider adding a pre or post cruise extension is to take advantage of the opportunity to visit nearby destinations that might not be included on your river cruise itinerary. For example, you might choose to add a pre-cruise extension to visit a city that is located near your embarkation port, or a post-cruise extension to visit a destination that is located near your disembarkation port.

Try different travel modes: Traveling by different modes of transportation also allows you to fully immerse yourself in the local culture and way of life. For example, traveling by train or on a guided tour bus allows you to see the countryside and get a sense of what it’s like to live in different parts of Europe, while traveling by boat or river cruise allows you to experience the region’s waterways and coastal regions.

Value: Make the most of your international flight purchase by extending a few days on either end of your trip.  You can include multiple destinations in one trip to Europe instead of paying for two separate trips.

Relaxation: Finally, adding a pre or post river cruise extension can also be a good way to extend your vacation and make it even more relaxing. Whether you want to spend a few extra days relaxing on the beach or exploring a new city, a pre or post cruise extension can help you make the most of your trip. A pre river cruise extension takes the stress out of arriving in time to meet the ship and allows your body to start adjusting to the new time zone.

Overall, adding a pre or post river cruise extension can be a great way to enhance your vacation and make it even more memorable. Whether you’re looking to spend more time exploring your destinations, visit nearby attractions, or just relax and enjoy your trip, an extension can help you make the most of your river cruise experience. So, it is always a good idea to consider adding a pre or post river cruise extension to your trip.

BONUS TIP: If you have the time and want to travel in the spring or fall, you can add an ocean cruise crossing to your trip.  Read more on our blog about The Benefits of Taking an Ocean Crossing to Get to or From Europe.