Imagine gliding gracefully along majestic rivers surrounded by breathtaking views and centuries-old architecture. A river cruise in Europe offers an intimate and immersive way to experience the continent’s rich history, art, and culture. With luxurious amenities and exceptional service, a European river cruise is the perfect setting for creating lifelong memories.
The Perks of Exploring Europe on a River Cruise
From the gothic towers of Budapest to the medieval alleys of Strasbourg, river cruises give you special access to historic landmarks, UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and vibrant local cultures across the continent.
If you’re not a fan of crowded tourist spots or impersonal vacations, a river cruise is a perfect fit. These smaller, more intimate ships let you enjoy Europe’s beauty without the crowds. Each day, you’ll wake up to stunning views of medieval castles, vineyards, and charming villages, with plenty of time to explore at a leisurely pace.
And like most cruises, a river cruise offers the time-saving benefit of only having to unpack once, no matter how many different ports you visit on your trip.
Top European River Cruise Destinations
Whether you’re a seasoned cruiser or a first-time explorer, the destinations along Europe’s amazing rivers will leave you in awe. Here are the top European river cruise destinations to consider for your next adventure.
Danube River Cruises
The Danube is one of Europe’s longest and most storied rivers, flowing through 10 countries, including Germany, Austria, Hungary, and Romania. It’s a must for anyone seeking a mix of history, culture, and breathtaking scenery.
- Budapest, Hungary – Cruise into Budapest and be greeted by the majestic sight of the Hungarian Parliament Building. The city’s iconic Chain Bridge, thermal baths, and rich history make it a must-visit.
- Vienna, Austria – Famous for its classical music heritage, stunning palaces, and rich cultural scene, Vienna is a highlight on any Danube cruise. Don’t miss the chance to attend a concert or visit Schönbrunn Palace.
- Bratislava, Slovakia – This charming capital city boasts a medieval old town, castle views, and a relaxed atmosphere that contrasts with the grandiosity of neighboring cities.
- Melk, Austria – Home to the stunning Melk Abbey, a Baroque masterpiece, this small town offers an intimate look at Austria’s religious and architectural heritage.
Rhine River Cruises
The Rhine River is synonymous with romantic landscapes, dotted with medieval castles, steep vineyards, and impressive architecture. Cruising through this region feels like stepping into a fairytale.
- Cologne, Germany – A city with over 2,000 years of history, Cologne is famous for its Gothic Cathedral, one of the largest in Europe. Wander through its old town and sample the local beer, Kölsch.
- Heidelberg, Germany – Known for its charming old town and the impressive Heidelberg Castle, this city is steeped in history and offers stunning views over the Neckar River.
- Strasbourg, France – A mix of French and German cultures, Strasbourg is home to the European Parliament and its UNESCO-listed historic center. Enjoy its quaint canals, cobblestone streets, and beautiful Gothic cathedral.
- The Middle Rhine Valley – A UNESCO World Heritage site, this region is known for its dramatic landscapes and countless castles perched high on the cliffs. One of the most picturesque sections is the Lorelei Rock, with legends of sirens luring sailors to their doom.
Seine River Cruises
For those enchanted by France, a Seine River cruise is the perfect way to experience the romance of Paris and the tranquility of the French countryside.
- Paris, France – Start or end your journey in the City of Light. From the Eiffel Tower to the Louvre, the Notre Dame to Montmartre, Paris is the perfect mix of culture, art, and romance.
- Giverny, France – Visit the home and gardens of Claude Monet, where the artist created his famous water lily paintings.
- Rouen, France – Rich in medieval history, Rouen is where Joan of Arc was famously martyred. The Gothic Rouen Cathedral, with its dramatic façade, is a must-see.
- Honfleur, France – This charming, colorful port town was a favorite of the Impressionists. Honfleur offers a glimpse into Normandy’s famous maritime past.
Other popular rivers include the Douro, which flows through Spain and Portugal, and the Elbe River, which runs from the northern Czech Republic through Hamburg, Germany.
All-Inclusive River Cruise Lines in Europe
When it comes to luxury and convenience, few travel experiences compare to an all-inclusive river cruise through Europe.
When a river cruise is all-inclusive, it means the ticket cost typically covers:
- Accommodations – Your cabin or suite on the ship, complete with daily housekeeping and amenities.
- Meals and Drinks – All meals, from breakfast buffets to multi-course dinners, and beverages like wine, beer, and soft drinks.
- Entertainment – Onboard activities, lectures, performances, and sometimes themed events.
- Transportation – Airport transfers and transportation between destinations.
- Some Shore Excursions – Cruise lines offer guided tours, cultural experiences, and activities at each port of call, but there may be additional costs depending on the excursion you choose.
However, the level of inclusivity can vary between cruise lines, with some offering additional perks such as gratuities, premium drinks, laundry services, and even vacation packages with airfare.
All-Inclusive AmaWaterways® Cruises
AmaWaterways® strikes the perfect balance between luxury and adventure, offering an array of activities and experiences. Most itineraries include a generous number of amenities.
What’s Included?
AmaWaterways offers all meals, complimentary wine, beer, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner, guided shore excursions, Wi-Fi, and wellness programs such as hiking and biking tours. Some cruises also offer a “Sip & Sail” cocktail hour before dinner.
Popular Routes
AmaWaterways offers cruises along the Rhine, Danube, Rhône, and Moselle rivers.
Example Itinerary
The 7-night “Captivating Rhine” cruise sails from Amsterdam to Basel, with highlights including a visit to the Black Forest, a tour of the iconic Cologne Cathedral, and wine tasting in the Alsace region.
All-Inclusive Viking® River Cruises
Viking® River Cruises is one of the most well-known names in river cruising. With carefully planned itineraries, these cruises take you deep into the history, culture, and beauty of each destination. Onboard, you’ll enjoy top-notch service, stylish rooms, and excellent dining.
What’s Included?
Viking includes shore excursions in every port, all meals, beer and wine with lunch and dinner, Wi-Fi, airport transfers, and lectures or cultural enrichment programs. Optional upgrades include premium drink packages, specialty dining, and optional excursions.
Popular Routes
Viking cruises along the Rhine, Danube, Seine, and Douro rivers, among others.
Example Itinerary
The 8-day “Rhine Getaway” cruise travels from Basel to Amsterdam, with stops in Strasbourg, Cologne, and the Middle Rhine Valley, known for its dramatic castle-strewn landscapes.
All-Inclusive Scenic Luxury River Cruises
Scenic River Cruises make it easy to relax and explore. With everything covered in the fare – whether it’s immersive excursions or premium beverages – Scenic is known for its outstanding service and thoughtful details.
With no hidden costs, it’s the perfect choice for travelers looking for a luxurious, worry-free river cruise. However, it’s important to note that Scenic River Cruises in Europe are generally not recommended for children under 12.
Popular Routes
Scenic offers cruises along Europe’s most scenic rivers, including the Rhine, Danube, Seine, and Douro.
Example Itinerary
The 8-day “Jewels of Europe” cruise sails from Amsterdam to Budapest, with highlights including visits to the windmills of Kinderdijk, the medieval town of Bamberg, and the stunning Wachau Valley. Every stop is packed with enriching experiences, enhanced by Scenic’s luxurious service.
Not sure which cruise line is your perfect fit? Our Travel Advisors can help you figure it out! From family vacations to romantic getaways for two, we’ll help you find the river cruise that includes everything you need. Get in touch today to start planning your trip.
The Best Time of Year for a River Cruise
The overall most popular seasons for river cruising are spring and fall. March through May is a lovely time to cruise through Europe. As winter melts away, the countryside is beautifully green, with flowers blooming, trees budding, and vineyards coming to life again.
In the summer, the weather is warm, the days are long, and the port cities along the rivers are buzzing with things to see and do. But the cities are often more crowded, and some may find the temperatures less pleasant than those in spring.
Fall is fantastic for anyone who enjoys the mix of great weather, delicious food and wine, and fewer tourists compared to summer. The autumn colors are stunning, especially if you’re cruising along the Rhine or the Moselle. Think vineyards covered in gold and orange!
While winter might not be the most obvious choice, it has its own magic – especially if you’re dreaming of Europe’s enchanting Christmas markets.
Ready to Cruise Through Europe?
Key to the World Travel® Advisors will help you plan all the details of your trip – that includes finding the best deals, booking rooms, creating custom itineraries, and more!
