All Canal Du Midi Cruises & Tours

6 Best Canal du Midi Cruises & Tours

All Canal Du Midi Cruises & Tours

All France Articles

Canal du Midi Travel Guide

What to expect on a barge cruise

On your European barge cruise, you can expect a leisurely pace, an intimate atmosphere, and great, locally sourced food.

All you need to know about Barge Cruising

Barge cruises are one of the most unique ways to explore France, Central Europe, and the United Kingdom. Intimate accommodations, great food, and focused experiences are part of the excitement of a barge cruise.

Best Destinations for European Barge Cruises

Barge cruising in Europe is nothing new, but it is certainly a trending option for avid travelers hoping to experience something different. The top destinations for barge cruising are France, the United Kingdom, Germany, the Netherlands, and Belgium.

Barge cruise vs. River cruise

What is the difference is between a European barge cruise and a river cruise? The relaxed and intimate atmosphere onboard is similar, and destinations are often largely the same as well, visiting many of the same major ports. The main difference between a barge cruise and a river cruise in Europe is the size of the boat and hence the number of passengers onboard.

Explore one of the original barge cruising canals: The Canal du Midi

Get back to the roots of European barge cruising when you book your barge cruise on the Canal du Midi in France. This is right where the novel trend of luxury barge cruising started in the heart of France, and you will be able to feel the experience while the captain and crew enthusiastically invite you aboard.

The sites of this region go back over 1,000 years, to beautiful Lagrasse and its 8th century abbey, Narbonne’s Archbishop’s Palace and market, and olive presses and wineries, to name a few. Medieval cities, fortified castles, charming villages, and friendly people highlight barge cruising tours of the Canal du Midi.

Check out all the best destinations for barge cruising in Europe:

When to take a Barge Cruise in Europe

The best time to take a barge cruise through Europe is probably the autumn season, between September and October. Summer can also be an enjoyable barge cruising season if you don’t mind hotter temperatures and bigger crowds, and the start of the river cruising season in late spring (April-May) can be a good time to see Europe coming back to life after winter.

Relax. We've got this.

Talk with an expert trip planner 1.800.344.6118

Plan My Trip

Chat Canal du Midi with a specialist

Our team is waiting and ready to talk with you about your next adventure. So go ahead and book an appointment with one of our specialized trip planners.

Let's Chat

1.800.344.6118

Where is your next adventure?

Contact Chat Call

Why Travel With Us?

Unbiased Cruise Expertise

We're not tied to any one cruise line, so you receive honest guidance on the best ship and itinerary for you—not a sales pitch.

Seamless Trip Planning

We guide you through every detail beyond the cruise—from flights to pre- and post-trip stays—so your journey feels effortless.

Advocacy That Matters

You're backed by a team that knows the industry and has strong relationships—helping ensure you're prioritized and well taken care of every step of the way.