S.S. Victoria on Rhine River
Verona, Italy
Uniworld
Uniworld Boutique River Cruises delivers an immersive experience with destination-inspired ships, each reflecting the culture, heritage, and artistic traditions of the places they sail. Indulge in world-class cuisine, free-flowing wines, and carefully crafted onshore experiences.
Enter a realm of unmatched luxury, where each suite is meticulously designed with exceptional features and sophisticated elegance. Experience personalised service, tailored to your every need by the attentive and dedicated crew of Uniworld, ensuring an unforgettable experience."
Our hottest offers 12
SAVE UP TO 30%
Brilliant Bordeaux
THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY SALE
Save up to 30% on select sailings - for a limited time!
Book by 27 Feb 26.
Journey through the vineyards and châteaux of southwestern France on a luxurious river voyage onboard the elegant S.S. Bon Voyage. This curated adventure weaves together history, gastronomy and refined charm—perfect for travellers seeking French flair in an intimate boutique setting.
With Uniworld, travel feels effortless yet indulgent. Their boutique river ships are beautifully styled with a local flair and feature exceptional service, gourmet dining, and spacious suites. Every part of your cruise is thoughtfully included—from guided excursions to regional cuisine and top-shelf beverages. It’s all designed to let you fully unwind, while still connecting deeply with the places and people along the way.
Classic Stateroom
Flights are additional
Departs 30 Aug 2026
SAVE UP TO 30%
Splendors of Egypt & The Nile
THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY SALE
Save up to 30% on select sailings - for a limited time!
Book by 27 Feb 26.
Cruise the Nile in a manner once reserved for queens and pharaohs! Embark on an 11-night adventure through Egypt and the Nile, exploring the most fascinating locations in elegance and luxury. Explore the magnificent remnants of the Temple of Karnak, the biggest prehistoric religious complex in the world, and the captivating Temple of Luxor. Explore the Valley of the Kings, the ancient resting place of Egyptian aristocracy, following along the footsteps of famous academics and explorers.
View Nile Feb to May 2026 Sailings
View Nile Sep to Dec 2026 Sailings
With Uniworld, travel feels effortless yet indulgent. Their boutique river ships are beautifully styled with a local flair and feature exceptional service, gourmet dining, and spacious suites. Every part of your cruise is thoughtfully included—from guided excursions to regional cuisine and top-shelf beverages. It’s all designed to let you fully unwind, while still connecting deeply with the places and people along the way.
Ancient Egypt & Modern Luxury
Departs 14 Feb 2026
Holiday Season Cruises with Uniworld
Step aboard a festively decorated Uniworld ship and discover the magic of Europe’s holiday traditions in style. With a range of enchanting Rhine and Danube itineraries to choose from, you’ll explore centuries-old Christmas Markets, savour indulgent seasonal treats, and enjoy specially curated excursions—all wrapped in Uniworld’s signature luxury and all-inclusive service.
View Holiday Season Nov to Dec 2026 Sailings
With Uniworld, travel feels effortless yet indulgent. Their boutique river ships are beautifully styled with a local flair and feature exceptional service, gourmet dining, and spacious suites. Every part of your cruise is thoughtfully included—from guided excursions to regional cuisine and top-shelf beverages. It’s all designed to let you fully unwind, while still connecting deeply with the places and people along the way.
Christmas Markets by River
Departs 24 Nov 2026
SAVE UP TO 30%
Rhine River Cruises with Uniworld
THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY SALE
Save up to 30% on select sailings - for a limited time!
Book by 27 Feb 26.
Cruise the enchanting Rhine River Valley, home to majestic castles, historic villages, and vineyards clinging to steep hillsides. Choose from thoughtfully crafted itineraries—from the classic Castles Along the Rhine cruise and vibrant Tulip Time in Holland & Belgium to festive Holiday Markets and extended journeys connecting the Rhine with the Main, Moselle, and Danube rivers. Enjoy refined comfort and curated experiences in one of Europe’s most captivating regions.
View Rhine Mar to Jun 2026 Sailings
View Rhine Jul to Dec 2026 Sailings
With Uniworld, travel feels effortless yet indulgent. Their boutique river ships are beautifully styled with a local flair and feature exceptional service, gourmet dining, and spacious suites. Every part of your cruise is thoughtfully included—from guided excursions to regional cuisine and top-shelf beverages. It’s all designed to let you fully unwind, while still connecting deeply with the places and people along the way.
Castles, Culture & Curated Luxury
Departs 10 Mar 2026
DEBUTING IN 2026
SAVE UP TO 20%
S.S. Emilie Sets Sail
THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY SALE
Save up to 20% on select sailings - for a limited time!
Book by 27 Feb 26.
Uniworld’s newest Super Ship™, S.S. Emilie, will make her debut in 2026 with luxurious sailings along the legendary Danube River. Designed with lavish jewel tones, gleaming gold accents, and refined Art Nouveau touches, this exquisite vessel sets a new standard in river cruising. Be among the first to experience Uniworld’s signature all-inclusive service aboard a ship built to impress.
View S.S.Emilie Mar 2026 to Jun 2026 Sailings
View S.S.Emilie Jul 2026 to Dec 2026 Sailings
With Uniworld, travel feels effortless yet indulgent. Their boutique river ships are beautifully styled with a local flair and feature exceptional service, gourmet dining, and spacious suites. Every part of your cruise is thoughtfully included—from guided excursions to regional cuisine and top-shelf beverages. It’s all designed to let you fully unwind, while still connecting deeply with the places and people along the way.
Art Nouveau on the Danube
Departs 21 Mar 2026
SAVE UP TO 30%
Rivers of France with Uniworld
THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY SALE
Save up to 30% on select sailings - for a limited time!
Book by 27 Feb 26.
For those seeking French flair, river cruising offers a luxurious journey through timeless landscapes—where grand boulevards, storied vineyards, and iconic landmarks reveal the depth of France’s cultural and historical allure. Choose from 7- to 21-night itineraries, with the freedom to explore one, two, or all three regions—Uniworld offers seamlessly curated combinations for a richly indulgent journey.
Northern France Seine river, Paris, Normandy and Christmas Holiday sailings
Mar to Jun 2026 Sailings
Jul to Dec 2026 Sailings
Bordeaux Dordogne, Garonne & Gironde rivers, Bordeaux, Fort Médoc, Libourne
Mar to Jun 2026 Sailings
Jul to Oct 2026 Sailings
Burgundy & Provence Rhône & Saône rivers, Arles, Lyon
Mar to Jun 2026 Sailings
Jul to Nov 2026 Sailings
With Uniworld, travel feels effortless yet indulgent. Their boutique river ships are beautifully styled with a local flair and feature exceptional service, gourmet dining, and spacious suites. Every part of your cruise is thoughtfully included—from guided excursions to regional cuisine and top-shelf beverages. It’s all designed to let you fully unwind, while still connecting deeply with the places and people along the way.
History, Culture & Château Elegance
Departs 22 Mar 2026
SAVE UP TO 30%
Douro River Cruises with Uniworld
THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY SALE
Save up to 30% on select sailings - for a limited time!
Book by 27 Feb 26.
Steeped in history and tradition, the Douro Valley is the world’s oldest demarcated wine region — a UNESCO-listed landscape of terraced vineyards, timeless villages, and centuries-old wine estates. Enjoy a 7-night Douro River Valley cruise, extend your journey with a stay in Lisbon, or experience the ultimate wine journey with the 17-night Wine Roads of France & Portugal itinerary.
View Douro Mar to Jun 2026 Sailings
View Douro Jul to Nov 2026 Sailings
With Uniworld, travel feels effortless yet indulgent. Their boutique river ships are beautifully styled with a local flair and feature exceptional service, gourmet dining, and spacious suites. Every part of your cruise is thoughtfully included—from guided excursions to regional cuisine and top-shelf beverages. It’s all designed to let you fully unwind, while still connecting deeply with the places and people along the way.
Portugal's River of Gold
Departs 29 Mar 2026
SAVE UP TO 30%
Danube River with Uniworld
THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY SALE
Save up to 30% on select sailings - for a limited time!
Book by 27 Feb 26.
Follow the Danube as it winds through some of Europe’s most atmospheric cities and charming towns, including the spectacular Wachau Valley. Choose from 7- to 18-night itineraries — from the 7-night Delightful Danube cruise and festive Holiday Markets & Christmas departures to immersive Eastern Europe journeys featuring stays in Prague and Bucharest.
View Danube Mar to Jun 2026 Sailings
View Danube Jul to Nov 2026 Sailings
With Uniworld, travel feels effortless yet indulgent. Their boutique river ships are beautifully styled with a local flair and feature exceptional service, gourmet dining, and spacious suites. Every part of your cruise is thoughtfully included—from guided excursions to regional cuisine and top-shelf beverages. It’s all designed to let you fully unwind, while still connecting deeply with the places and people along the way.
Riverside Splendour
Departs 22 Mar 2026
SAVE UP TO 30%
Venice & The Jewels of Veneto
THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY SALE
Save up to 30% on select sailings - for a limited time!
Book by 27 Feb 26.
Discover the soul of Northern Italy in style with Uniworld’s luxurious S.S La Venezia. Choose from 7- to 12-night itineraries — from a 7-night Venice Lagoon cruise to a more immersive Italian experience by combining your cruise with a stay in Rome or Milan, or book the Grande Italia to include both! And New for 2026! Enhance your cruise with a pre-cruise stay in Ljubljana, the beautiful capital of Slovenia. Ask us about this new itinerary!
View Venice Apr to Sep 2026 Sailings
This journey unveils the timeless beauty of Venice and the Veneto region, from the grand canals of La Serenissima to the charming islands of Burano, Mazzorbo, and the historic towns of Chioggia and Padua.
With Uniworld, travel feels effortless yet indulgent. Their boutique river ships are beautifully styled with a local flair and feature exceptional service, gourmet dining, and spacious suites. Every part of your cruise is thoughtfully included—from guided excursions to regional cuisine and top-shelf beverages. It’s all designed to let you fully unwind, while still connecting deeply with the places and people along the way.
Cruise Venice by Lagoon
Departs 26 May 2026
SAVE UP TO 20%
India's Golden Triangle & The Sacred Ganges
THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY SALE
Save up to 20% on select sailings - for a limited time!
Book by 27 Feb 26.
Journey through India on a Uniworld voyage that combines luxurious river cruising with expertly curated land touring. Begin with stays at award-winning Oberoi hotels as you explore the iconic Golden Triangle—Delhi, Jaipur, and Agra—where ornate palaces, colorful markets, and the majestic Taj Mahal captivate the senses. Then relax aboard your ship sailing the sacred Ganges, visiting remote villages and embracing timeless traditions, complemented by Uniworld’s wellness program inspired by India’s ancient yoga heritage.
12-night Cruisetour departures from New Delhi to Kolkata
Sep to Dec 2026 Sailings
Ask us about Cruise & Rail combos!
With Uniworld, travel feels effortless yet indulgent. Their boutique river ships are beautifully styled with a local flair and feature exceptional service, gourmet dining, and spacious suites. Every part of your cruise is thoughtfully included—from guided excursions to regional cuisine and top-shelf beverages. It’s all designed to let you fully unwind, while still connecting deeply with the places and people along the way.
Vibrant Wonders & Serene Luxury
Departs 19 Sep 2026
SAVE UP TO 30%
Timeless Wonders of Vietnam, Cambodia & The Mekong
THE 50TH ANNIVERSARY SALE
Save up to 30% on select sailings - for a limited time!
Book by 27 Feb 26.
Discover the wonders of Vietnam and Cambodia on a 14-night Uniworld journey that combines luxurious river cruising with expertly curated land touring. Travel in comfort by ship, coach, and air as you explore the vibrant streets of Ho Chi Minh City, the colonial charm of Phnom Penh, and the awe-inspiring temples of Angkor Wat—paired with serene days sailing the Mekong through floating villages and lush countryside.
14-night Cruisetour departures from Ho Chi Minh City to Hanoi or in reverse
Sep to Dec 2026 Sailings
Jan to Mar 2027 Sailings
Sep to Dec 2027 Sailings
With Uniworld, travel feels effortless yet indulgent. Their boutique river ships are beautifully styled with a local flair and feature exceptional service, gourmet dining, and spacious suites. Every part of your cruise is thoughtfully included—from guided excursions to regional cuisine and top-shelf beverages. It’s all designed to let you fully unwind, while still connecting deeply with the places and people along the way.
Rich Traditions & Refined Luxury
Departs 7 Sep 2026
European Jewels with Uniworld
Sail through the heart of Europe in all-inclusive luxury on a 14-night journey along the Danube, Main, and Rhine Rivers. Explore the imperial grandeur of Vienna, the Gothic splendor of Cologne, and cultural landmarks across four countries. Optional extensions in Budapest and Amsterdam let you begin or end your journey in style.
View European Jewels May to Oct 2026 Sailings
With Uniworld, travel feels effortless yet indulgent. Their boutique river ships are beautifully styled with a local flair and feature exceptional service, gourmet dining, and spacious suites. Every part of your cruise is thoughtfully included—from guided excursions to regional cuisine and top-shelf beverages. It’s all designed to let you fully unwind, while still connecting deeply with the places and people along the way.
Luxury Along Legendary Rivers
Departs 10 May 2026
Fleet 3
S.S Maria Theresa
Uniworld's Super Ship™ fleet was built in honour of the great Habsburg ruler Maria Theresa.
S.S La Venezia
Now bringing luxurious experience once again, River Countess debuted as S.S La Venezia after undergoing remodeling in 2020.
S.S Sphinx
Experience authentic Egyptian culture onboard Super Ship™ Sphinx, which showcases cultural designs and materials sourced locally for an immersive journey.
What's your Cruise Style? 🚢
Want to know your Cruise Vibe? Take our fun Cruise Matchmaker Quiz and find out what style of cruise best matches your personality.
We make cruise easy.
![Cruises on sale October](/media/usrlqlns/luxury-cruising-landing-page.jpg?rmode=max&width=4000")
Charlotte Campbell
House of Travel Papamoa
Travel
has been an integral part of my life for over 20 years, and I can't imagine
pursuing anything else. This year, I proudly celebrate my 17th year with
House of Travel Papamoa, where I truly love being a 'hottie.' Our store boasts
a fantastic team culture that makes coming to work a joyful experience every
day.
I find immense satisfaction in crafting bespoke itineraries that
transform my clients' dreams into reality. While the USA remains my favourite
destination, my travels have also taken me through the stunning landscapes of
New Zealand, the enchanting South Pacific, vibrant Australia, diverse Europe,
and picturesque Canada and Alaska. This year (2024), I had the incredible
opportunity to experience the magic of South Africa, where witnessing wildlife
in their natural habitat is nothing short of breath-taking. Being on safari
brings you so close to majestic animals, just meters away, creating
unforgettable memories.
Remember, your holiday begins the moment you step through our
door. I invite you to share your vision of the perfect getaway—how it looks and
feels, any research you've conducted, and your essential must-haves. The more
we delve into your aspirations together, the more extraordinary your holiday
will be!
Charlotte
Jess Carman
House of Travel Wellington City
|
What I love most
about my job is helping others make their travel dreams a reality! It may
sound cheesy, but it really is true! |
Jess
Belinda Fifield
House of Travel Christchurch City
There is a reason why Belinda was crowned the Top Travel Consultant in New Zealand by the Travel Agents Association of NZ... and it is her commitment to her clients. Belinda's friendly approach puts everyone at ease when planning their trip of a lifetime. She loves finding the perfect cruise for her clients and her knowledge of luxury travel throughout the world is second to none.
"Travel has the power to enrich your life and with over 25 years travel industry experience, I will provide you with the confidence and support to make your travel dreams a reality. Whether it be time out to reconnect with your family or an engaging cultural experience, my first-hand knowledge and expertise will help you along your journey."
Away from the office Belinda loves getting outdoors for a long walk with the family dog, before sitting down and enjoying a Chardonnay with a fine meal.
"Of all the books in the world, the best stories are found between the pages of a passport" - Anonymous
Why I love travel?
I absolutely love the joy and excitement of discovering new countries and cultures that travel brings. The two years of "no travel" during the pandemic has also taught me that revisiting places I've loved in the past gives me just as much joy! Connecting with people and places is very special and I am reminded of this every day in the job I do.
I love to share my travel and industry experience with my clients so that we can build the best of holidays together!
My travel tips:
- Make a bucket list and I can help make those dreams become a reality. Be sure to leave some space for those spur of the moment activities!
- Always get to the airport early. Much better to be checked in early, relaxing and waiting for your flight than stuck at the back of a queue wondering if you will make it.
- Download your travelling airlines app for flight notifications. Also download the House of Travel app before you depart so that you can access your whole travel itinerary and other useful travel information while you are on the go.
My top 5 favourite destinations:
- Europe - I never tire of visiting Europe. The people, history, food, wine and culture are extraordinary. The best way to see as much as possible if you are short on time is by cruise. You wake up in a different country every day. What's not to love about that.
- USA - this is a country that needs more than one visit to do it justice. Favourite cities in the states for me are New York, Washington, San Francisco, and Portland (Oregon). Then there are all those incredible national parks.
- Hawaii - deserves a mention of its own. Incredible beaches, a lovely climate year-round, fantastic outdoor activities and fabulous shopping. I recommend taking a short plane ride of one of the many magical islands that make up Hawaii.
- Bali - fantastic for a great value getaway whether it be with a group of friends or someone special. The accommodation options are amazing value.... be sure to ask about our villa options.
- Vietnam - has something for everyone even for first time visitors to Asia. Incredibly moving history, beautiful people, fabulous shopping and food, and wonderful outdoor activities.
What's in my suitcase?
- Kindle
- Little black dress
- Shoes I can walk miles in
Belinda
Anna O'Dell-Smith
House of Travel Ferrymead
Having travelled extensively I thoroughly enjoy immersing myself in the rich culture of any country I am fortunate enough to visit. Travel is my passion and I love helping clients create an unforgettable experience that is uniquely their own.
I genuinely believe that travel is the only thing you can buy that makes you richer. I enjoy being part of each and every journey. No day is the same in the life of a travel consultant and I relish the challenge that this represents. I am flattered by the number of clients who have come back to me time and time again.
Having travelled to nearly 50 countries, my bucket list is still never ending. I have backpacked my way through the world in my youth as well as enjoying five star luxury in more recent times. I have definitely felt richer from each and every experience. Travel is a way of life, I love what I do and that passion and enthusiasm always translates into the work I put into my clients plans.
Anna
Get in touch
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Frequently Asked Questions
Greece is perfect. From June to September, it’s sunny, warm and ideal for swimming — right when it’s chilly back home.
No. New Zealand passport holders can visit visa-free for up to 90 days in any 180-day period.
Yes. Many islands, like Naxos and Corfu, have calm beaches, family resorts and short ferry connections.
Book an island-hopping itinerary or a small-ship cruise. It’s easy to combine 2–3 islands in one trip.
There are no direct flights from New Zealand, but it’s easy to connect via hubs such as Doha, Dubai or Singapore to Athens.
Flight time from Auckland to Athens: around 24–26 hours including a stopover. Many travellers break their journey in the Middle East or Asia.
Santorini, Mykonos, Crete and Rhodes offer long sunny days, great beaches and plenty of entertainment.
Q. What is the best time to visit Italy?
Italy is a year-round destination, but the best time depends on your preferences. Spring (April to June) and autumn (September to October) offer mild weather, fewer crowds, and vibrant scenery. Summer (July to August) is great for coastal destinations like the Amalfi Coast but tends to be hot and busy. Winter (November to March) is perfect for exploring cities like Rome and Florence or skiing in the Alps.
Q. Where to go on holiday in Italy?
Italy has something for everyone. Rome is rich in history and iconic landmarks like the Colosseum, Venice is a romantic city of canals, and Florence is the heart of Renaissance art and architecture. The Amalfi Coast is perfect for seaside beauty, while Tuscany offers rolling hills, vineyards, and quaint villages. For something unique or unexplored, explore Sicily or Puglia for stunning beaches and authentic cuisine. Our Italy travel specialists can help craft the perfect itinerary tailored to your interests.
Q. How long should I go to Italy for a holiday?
We recommend at least 10–14 days to explore Italy’s highlights. This allows you to experience multiple regions, from the historic cities of Rome and Florence to the scenic countryside of Tuscany and the stunning Amalfi Coast. If you have more time, you can include hidden gems like Cinque Terre, Lake Como, or Sicily.
Q. How can I find the best holiday package to Italy?
Check out our Italy deals section on the website or subscribe to receive exclusive offers. Our Italy travel specialists can help create a custom itinerary to suit your preferences and ensure you have an unforgettable holiday.
Q. Where to stay in Italy?
Italy offers a wide range of accommodations, from luxury hotels and historic palazzos to charming agriturismi (farm stays) and boutique B&Bs. For an authentic experience, consider staying in a countryside villa in Tuscany or a traditional trullo in Puglia. Major cities like Rome, Florence, and Venice have accommodations for every budget. Let us help you find the perfect place to stay.
Q. What is there to do in Italy?
Italy is brimming with experiences. Visit ancient ruins in Rome, admire Renaissance art in Florence, and cruise the canals of Venice. Explore the scenic Amalfi Coast, take a cooking class in Tuscany, or sip wine in the Chianti region. Don’t miss iconic landmarks like the Colosseum, Vatican City, and the Leaning Tower of Pisa. For food lovers, indulge in authentic pizza in Naples, fresh pasta in Bologna, and gelato everywhere. Check out our favourite things to see and do Italy.
Q. What should I pack for my trip to Italy?
· Comfortable walking shoes: Italy’s cobblestone streets require sturdy footwear.
· Layers: The weather can vary depending on the season and region.
· A reusable water bottle: Public water fountains, or "nasoni," are common and safe to use.
· Travel adapters: Italy uses type C, F, and L plugs (220V).
Q. Do I need travel insurance for Italy?
Yes, travel insurance is highly recommended. It ensures you’re covered for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or unexpected interruptions.
Q. What is the best time to visit France?
The best time to visit France is from April to June and September to October. These months offer pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and the chance to enjoy France’s charm without the summer heat.
Q. Where should I go on holiday in France?
France has a destination for every traveller whether you’re dreaming of exploring the vineyards of Bordeaux, wandering the streets of Paris, or relaxing on the French Riviera, chat to our France travel specialists and let’s find your perfect holiday today!
A few of our favs:
· Paris – Iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, Louvre, and Notre-Dame.
· Provence – Stunning lavender fields, historic villages, and local markets.
· French Riviera – Glamorous beaches in Nice, Cannes, and Saint-Tropez.
· Loire Valley – Fairytale châteaux, vineyards, and scenic countryside.
· Normandy & Brittany – Coastal charm, history, and delicious seafood.
· Burgundy – Picturesque villages and world-class wine regions.
Q. How long should I visit France for?
For a well-rounded trip, we recommend 10–14 days. This allows you to explore Paris and add regions like the Loire Valley, Provence, or the French Riviera. For shorter trips, a week in Paris with day trips to places like Versailles or Champagne is a great option.
Q. How can I find the best holiday package to France?
Check out our France holiday deals section or subscribe to receive exclusive offers. Our travel specialists can craft a custom itinerary tailored to your preferences for a seamless and unforgettable experience
Q. Where should I stay in France?
France offers a variety of accommodation options:
· Luxury hotels & boutique stays in Paris and major cities.
· Charming countryside châteaux & farm stays in regions like Loire Valley and Provence.
· Coastal resorts along the French Riviera.
· Ski lodges & chalets in the Alps.
· Cozy B&Bs & apartments for a more local experience. Our France travel specialists us help you find the perfect place to stay!
Q. What is there to do in France?
France is brimming with experiences. Explore world-famous landmarks in Paris like the Louvre and Eiffel Tower. Wine-tasting in Bordeaux, Burgundy, and Champagne regions. Relax on the beaches of the French Riviera. Visit Mont Saint-Michel, one of France’s most stunning medieval sites. Discover charming villages and lavender fields in Provence. Indulge in gourmet food experiences—from croissants in a Parisian café to Michelin-starred dining. Check out our favourite things to see and do in France.
Q. What should I pack for my trip to France?
For your trip to France, pack clothing that suits the season—light outfits for summer and warm layers for fall and winter. Comfortable shoes are essential for walking on cobblestone streets, and a stylish outfit will come in handy if you plan to dine at upscale restaurants. A scarf is both a practical and fashionable choice, while a rain jacket or small umbrella can help with unpredictable weather.
Don’t forget a power adapter - France uses Type E plugs. Bring your credit or debit cards, some cash for small purchases.
Q. Do I need travel insurance for France?
Yes, travel insurance is highly recommended to cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or unexpected delays
Q. How do I get around in France?
The SNCF train system is globally regarded as providing a world-class service. If you’re looking for a fast, efficient, regular and extremely reliable means to get around France, you can’t go wrong with the train. Albeit not cheap, book in advance for the best deals. In the height of summer, you’re unlikely to be able to purchase tickets on the day you want to travel, especially on popular inter-city routes, as they will probably be fully booked. Always pre-purchase tickets at least three days in advance.
Note: France has banned short-haul domestic flights for any journeys that are possible in less than 2.5hrs by train (from May 2023) – in a bid to make transport greener and fairer for the population – trains are the way to go!
Quick facts:
· Trains run every 10 to 15 minutes.
· Average journey time between Paris-Châtelet and CDG airport is 35-40 minutes
· Arrival Stations: Gare du Nord, Châtelet les Halles, St Michel/Nôtre Dame, Luxembourg, Port Royal, Denfert-Rochereau, Cité Universitaire.
· We guarantee after a 24+ hour flight from NZ, you won't want to deal with a transfer via public transport. Ask your HOT consultant about booking a transfer before you even leave NZ.
Q. What are some must-do activities in France?
Check out our France travel section for top recommendations, including cultural experiences, must-see landmarks, and local favourites.
Q. What are some family-friendly activities in France?
You can make almost any French activity as fun for children as it is for the adults. You can hire a locaboat – self skippered boat - for a week or so to take in the countryside. Take a ghost tour/walk in Paris or navigate the rural vineyards with a bike ride. If you’re critters are brave critters, cycle on a country road and wait for the trucks carrying hay bales to pass – nothing more fun than a hay storm!
In summer, many of the French farmers craft their fields into crazy mazes. A maize maze if you will. The French are also particularly good at designing a really great park, with all sorts of swings, slides and monkey bars.
If you’re not close to the coast, many municipals have manmade lakes with small slivers of sand and swimming pontoons. And you might not get the kids eating duck liver pate by lunchtime, but we bet they won’t mind a picnic with a pastry from the patisserie. Look out for the savoury options covered in shredded emmental cheese – the cheese makes the slice look excessively hairy and kids love it.
In 2026, Kiwi travellers are leaning towards high-impact travel- experiences that combine awe-inspiring natural landscapes, rich cultural immersion, and adventure. Popular activities include exploring Colombia’s jungles, seeing lavender fields in Provence, and cursing the Nile in Egypt.
Malta and Taiwan are our top picks for hidden gems, offering incredible food, history, and immersive experiences without the crowds of traditional European and Asian hotspots
Yes, Japan holds a commanding lead as the #1 destination for Kiwis, followed closely by Italy, Greece, and France, particularly for cultural exploration, cherry blossom season, and city adventures.
Lavendar season in Provence peaks from late June to early August. The perfect time for scenic drives, village markets, and photography of the iconic purple fields.
