Celebrity River Cruises Expands Europe Program with Curated City Stays - Get updated on what's happening in tourism!

Celebrity River Cruises is expanding its European offering with the launch of Before and After Stays, a new collection of guided multi-day city experiences designed to complement its river cruises. Available before or after a sailing, the programs combine premium accommodation, locally led excursions and seamless travel arrangements. Bookings are now open for 2027 stays in Prague and Budapest, while Amsterdam and Lausanne will join the program in 2028.

Extending the river cruise experience ashore

Each two- or three-night stay has been created to deepen guests' connection with the destinations they visit. Led by local experts, the programs include one Discovery Collection tour per day, with guests choosing from at least three themed experiences focusing on subjects such as history, gastronomy, art or local culture.

"Every element of a Celebrity River Cruises sailing is designed to bring guests closer to Europe's culture, history and people, onboard and ashore," said Laura Hodges Bethge, president of Celebrity Cruises. "Our Before and After Stays are more than an extension of a Celebrity River Cruises vacation, these stays are designed to deepen connection — to the cities, to the people who bring them to life, and to each other — leaving guests with the kind of stories and feelings that only come from truly getting close to a place."

Local experts reveal authentic experiences

The new programs are led by Local Storytellers and Destination Insiders who introduce guests to places and experiences beyond the traditional tourist trail.

In Amsterdam, travelers can explore the city's street art scene with a local artist before creating their own mural. In Prague, guests can choose between discovering the city's medieval history, exploring Cold War shelters or learning about Czech brewing traditions through historic taverns and local stories.

Seamless travel from arrival to departure

Before and After Stays include premium or ultra-premium hotel accommodation, daily breakfast, transfers to and from the ship, and a fully coordinated itinerary, allowing guests to focus on exploring each destination. Optional premium experiences are also available for travelers seeking additional activities.

More than 190 sailings across Europe

Celebrity River Cruises will operate 33 sailings in 2027 and 160 in 2028, visiting more than 50 destinations along the Rhine and Danube. Through partnerships with local businesses, artisans and cultural organizations, the cruise line also aims to support regional economies while offering guests authentic experiences that reflect the character of each destination.

Image Credit: © Celebrity Cruises