portugal cruises june 2024

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2024 Portugal River Cruises

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Cruises from Portugal in June 2024

Priced per person, based on 2 guests. Est. tax/fees of $264 pp not included.

Priced per person, based on 2 guests

Priced per person, based on 2 guests. Est. tax/fees not included.

Priced per person, based on 2 guests. Est. tax/fees of $95 pp not included.

Priced per person, based on 2 guests. Est. tax/fees of $220 pp not included.

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Portugal Cruises

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Luxury Cruises to Portugal

Portugal cruises will offer you an insight into its enchanting culture. Indulge in the country’s robust cuisine that celebrates the riches of the ocean and its lush, rolling countryside, not to mention the crisp whites, fruity reds, and famous port wine. Marvel at fairytale castles, lounge on endless sandy beaches, explore colorful markets, and experience ancient musical traditions. Most importantly, connect with the people, who are as warm and welcoming as the sunny climate.

Lisbon, the hilly capital, has wonderful architecture, a romantic old quarter, superb museums, and a thriving culinary scene. In the north, the glorious old city of Porto is a gateway to the riches of the Douro Valley, where port wine vineyards snake along steep hillsides and ornate palaces doze in the sunshine amid sprawling wine estates. The rugged Atlantic island of Madeira has its own charms, not least a beautifully preserved old city, Funchal, and some of the finest coastal walking in Europe. You may also call at the remote Azores, where you can explore dramatic volcanic scenery around Ponta Delgada, or join a whale-watching excursion. Sail to Portugal in luxury on a European cruise with Celebrity Cruises.

Portugal Cruise Highlights

Wine regions.

A cruise to Portugal will take you to some of the world’s most famous wine regions. From the port of Leixoes, you can visit the wild beauty of the Douro Valley, where sinuous vineyards and silvery olive groves line the river banks. Taste vintage ports, as well as the celebrated Mateus Rosé. From Lisbon, explore the lush countryside of the south to sample floral Moscatel wines. Madeira, meanwhile, produces its own fortified wines from grapes ripened in the Atlantic sunshine.

Historic Architecture

Exquisite castles and rugged fortifications are dotted all over Portugal. Don’t miss the 11th-century ramparts of the Castelo de São Jorge that snake across the hills of Lisbon and its stupendous views over the city’s terracotta rooftops. Visit the Torre de Belem to admire the intricate Manueline styling on this monument to the great explorers. And while the 19th-century turreted, red and yellow Pena Palace near Sintra is relatively modern, it’s a vision straight from a fairytale.

Experience the musical heritage of Portugal with a Fado performance. Fado is a uniquely Portuguese style of music that combines melodic notes from a mandolin or guitar with a melancholy tone and lyric, telling stories of life, love, and loss. It’s hauntingly beautiful to listen to and is especially prevalent in the intimate fado bars of the ancient Alfama District of Lisbon.

Portugal Cruise Ports

Lisbon, Portugal

Madeira (Funchal), Portugal

Porto (Leixoes), Portugal

Ponta Delgada, Azores

Portugal Cruise Itineraries

Cruises to Portugal vary between seven nights and 14 nights. Embarkation ports include Southampton (England), Rotterdam, Athens, Barcelona, or Lisbon itself. Transatlantic voyages, which visit Ponta Delgada and in some cases, Madeira, sail from Fort Lauderdale.

Itineraries

Why cruise to portugal with celebrity cruises.

Your cruise to Portugal and its islands will be an unforgettable experience on one of Celebrity’s luxurious, contemporary ships. Enjoy Michelin-quality dining, relax in the sunshine by the pool, and breathe in the sea air from the sanctuary of your own veranda. Choose The Retreat for the ultimate in luxurious living. As well as a serenely beautiful suite, you’ll have access to the exclusive restaurant, Luminae at The Retreat, a lounge, and, on Edge-series ships, a sundeck especially for guests of The Retreat.

Explore vineyards, historic cities, colorful markets, long sweeps of sandy shoreline, and the more dramatic volcanic scenery of the islands in Portugal, the riches of which will stay with you long after your vacation has ended.

View All Cruises to Portugal

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Portugal’s River of Gold

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2024-2026 RIVER CRUISE AND AIR FARES: Offer applies to bookings made from April 1-30, 2024. Terms & conditions for select promotions may vary. $25 deposit is applicable to all River itineraries. Special fares plus up to FREE International airfare valid on select departures of Grand European Tour , Lyon Provence & the Rhineland , European Sojourn and Capitals of Eastern Europe . Airfares may vary on other gateways & departures. Airfare does not have to be purchased to get cruise\cruisetour offer. All prices are in US dollars and for US residents only. Additional restrictions may apply. 2024 : Pay in full by May 31, 2024 or at time of booking if within 120 days of departure. 2025 : Pay in full by July 31, 2024. 2026 : Pay in full by February 15, 2025. Offers expires April 30, 2024.

$25 DEPOSIT: For itineraries 35 days or less, a $25 deposit applies to September 2024 & onward departures; for itineraries greater than 35 days, a $25 deposit applies to November 2024 & onward departures; World Cruise products excluded; call for details."

AIR UPGRADE:  Upgrade to Premium Economy air from $799 per person or Business Class air from $3,499 per person based on select gateways and dates. Additional airline-imposed baggage charges may apply; for more information visit  Airline Luggage Restrictions  . Air prices are per person based on cruise/cruisetour check-in date and include transfers plus all government taxes/fees of approximately $160 and air fuel surcharges. Air seats are limited; airfares are subject to change and are not guaranteed until full payment of air is received. For more information about customized air services and US gateways, visit the Viking Air Plus page.

GENERAL RESTRICTIONS:   Cruise fares listed are cruise only in US dollars, per person, based on double occupancy and for US residents only. Cruise ship fuel surcharge may apply. All fares and offers are for new bookings made April 1—April 30, 2024, are subject to availability; may not combinable with other offers except Viking Explorer Society Credit and Viking Referral Rewards. Special cruise fares are based upon published full cruise fares; cruise fares do not include prepaid charges, optional facilities and service fees, and personal charges, as defined in the terms and conditions of the  Passenger Ticket Contract  which may be viewed elsewhere on this website. Full cruise fares may not have resulted in actual sales in all stateroom categories and may not have been in effect during the last 90 days. Promotional fares may remain in effect after the expiration date. Air promotion applies to economy, roundtrip flights only from select Viking River Cruises US gateways and includes airport-to-ship or hotel transfers, air taxes and air fuel surcharges. Viking reserves the right to correct errors or omissions and to change any and all fares, fees and surcharges at any time. For up-to-date prices, please call Viking or your Travel Agent. The cruise ship fuel surcharge is additional revenue to Viking Cruises, as are any additional charges relating to currency fluctuation other than for fully paid cruise fares and full fares, which fluctuations are beyond our control. All fares include cruise taxes, port taxes and fees. Additional terms and conditions may apply. Complete terms and conditions may be found in the  Passenger Ticket Contract  .

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Portugal River Cruises

Find a River Cruise that explores Portugal. There are 66 adventures to choose from, that range in length from 6 days up to 17 days. The most popular month for these cruises is July, which has the most tour departures. Find here the best 10 day Portugal itineraries .

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100 river cruises through portugal with 84 reviews.

• River Cruise

The Best of Porto with a Luxury Douro Cruise - 5 nights

The Best of Porto with a Luxury Douro Cruise - 6 nights

Douro Experience 2024

Very comfortable boat. Helpful and friendly staff. Great food and drink. Beautiful scenery. Perfect.

Picturesque Solo Douro Tour

Discover Lisbon, Porto and the Douro Valley (port-to-port cruise)

Vida Portugal: Vineyards & Villages Along the Douro

Porto and the Douro Valley (port-to-port cruise) - FERNAO DE MAGALHAES

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Portugal, Spain & the Douro River Valley (2024) (Porto to Lisbon, 2024)

Douro River Valley (2024) (Porto to Porto, 2024)

Vida Portugal: Vineyards & Villages Along the Douro with 3 Nights in Lisbon 2024

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Flavors of Portugal & Spain 2024 Start Porto, End Vega de Terrón

Secrets of the Douro & Lisbon

Sevilla & Secrets of the Douro

River cruises in portugal reviews.

A very pleasant 8 day experience but really more like a five day cruise. The cruise information was incomplete, leaving out interesting opportunities along the way (Port museums and prehistoric rock art,) most particularly an excursion to Salamanca, which turned out to be a highlight for us. The food was good but not as interesting as Portuguese restaurants in Porto or even at home in Canada.

Regions in Portugal

• Northern Portugal (32)

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Spain, Portugal & the Canary Islands Cruises

See classical architecture, hob-nob in hip bars, or scale an imposing volcano.

Tucked into the far southwestern corner of Europe, the nations of the Iberian Peninsula are home to diverse cultural riches and myriad opportunities for outdoor exploration. Start a cruise vacation to experience Spain's Islamic-inflected architectural heritage at the Alhambra in Granada and the Giralda in Seville. See the dramatic cliffs and turquoise waters of Portugal's Algarve, and take exhilarating hikes around the calderas of active volcanoes in the Canary Islands. As an added bonus, the food and drink in Spain, Portugal and the Canary Islands is life-altering — from finger foods like Spanish tapas and Portuguese petiscos to crisp white wines like Vinho Verde and bold reds from Rioja.

From Volcanoes To Vineyards

See classical architecture, hob-nob in hip bars, or scale an imposing volcano

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Turn Back the Clock

Retrace history along Spain's coast, from the lives of world-famous artists to monasteries dating back to the time of Christopher Columbus.

PICASSO AND PALS

The imaginary camaraderie between Picasso, Gaudi and Miro notwithstanding, the works of these men are a great way to add culture to your Spanish cruise. Visit Gaudi's Sagrada Familia Cathedral or Miro's "Woman and Birds" sculpture in Barcelona. Then tour the impressive collection of the Picasso Museum in Málaga for something truly distinct.

WORLD HERITAGE

After you stroll through castles like the Alhambra that hearken back to Spain's Islamic past, visit the UNESCO World Heritage site that comprises Lisbon’s Belem Tower and Jerónimos Monastery, which date back to the Age of Explorations that led to the voyage of Christopher Columbus.

TRAIN TO THE PAST

Need a break from the bustle of Barcelona or the lazy crowds of Lisbon? Take a train down the coast to from Barcelona to Sitges, the capital of Catalonian chill or northward from Lisbon to Sintra, whose colorful Pena National Palace has quickly become one of Portugal's most notable sites.

Sun, Sand and Sipping

Nature is in abundant supply in Europe's sunniest sector. Laze on the sandy beaches of Spain and cliff-hewn shores or Portugal, scale volcanic craters in the exotic Canary Islands, or sip fine wines in the region's stunning vineyards.

PICK YOUR BEACH

Whether you prefer to laze on the golden sands of Spain's Costa del Sol, such as at Málaga's La Malagueta Beach, or trek above dramatic cliffs in Portugal's Algarve region or on Tenerife in the Canary Islands, the Iberian Peninsula has all beach bums covered.

TAKE A HIKE

Earn your tapas by taking one of the region's many great hikes. In the Canary Islands, the hike up the Teide Volcano is positively exhilarating. Or get your physical activity in close to a city: Walk up to Barcelona's scenic Park Guell, or make the trek to Lisbon's stunning Miradouro da Graca viewpoint.

VINEYARD VIEWS

Soak in the sunshine and hillside vistas at the wineries of Portugal's Douro Valley, which specializes in Port dessert wines that are known to age for decades. Or head to Spain's Rioja region to sample bold, barrel-aged reds made from the indigenous grape Tempranillo.

Encounter beauty both natural and manmade in Spain, Portugal and the Canary Islands

Sail to Spain to sink your teeth into tapas, Portugal to sip sweet port wine or the Canary Islands to feast on the majesty of natural bliss. No matter where in southwestern Europe you visit, a feast is guaranteed.

Spanish Sensibilities

From the Sagrada Familia in Barcelona to the Alhambra in Granada, a cruise to Spain lets you experience the great architecture of Iberia firsthand.

Power Through Portugal

See the expanse of Lisbon from the hilltop viewpoints scattered around the city, or go deeper into the countryside near Porto and see the pristine coastline at Matosinhos Beach.

WHAT TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO Boost Your Spain Smarts

When to go to Spain, Portugal and the Canary Islands comes down to the experience you want to have. If you don't mind crowds and plenty of sunshine, come during the summer months between June and August or in the shoulder months of May and September. Choose the winter months of January and February if you prefer a quieter vacation.

The weather in Spain, Portugal and the Canaries is pleasant most of the year, though winter can be rainy and occasionally chilly. Summer (and most of spring and fall) are dry, but it's not uncommon for daytime temperatures to rise up to 90 degrees Fahrenheit, especially in the Canary Islands and low-lying places in Spain and Portugal.

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Carry a dictionary with you, or update the "Translate" app on your phone. Even in the major cities and ports of Spain and Portugal, English isn't widely spoken.

Pack your schedule lightly: The siesta culture of Spain means cities and towns shut down for an hour every afternoon, which can shave off some time on your to-do list.

Portugal has famously relaxed views on punctuality in Portugal, so factor in a few extra minutes when trying to get around.

A TAPESTRY OF TAPAS

The culinary patchwork of Spain, Portugal and Canary Islands is as colorful as the various languages its people speak and the many cultural traditions they follow. From the tapas in Spain to meat and potatoes covered in Canarian mojo sauce, you're sure to find many ways to express your contentment during your vacation.

PAELLA POWER

Featuring tender seafood and savory sausage stir-fried with savory saffron rice, paella's claim to fame is simplicity. In one bite of this dish, you can taste all of the flavors that have made Spain's signature dish famous around the world.

REACH RIGHT IN

Whether you try tapas in Spain or petiscos in Portugal, a few things stay true: These small plates of meat dishes, pastries and sandwiches meant to be eaten by hand aren't tiny, and a friend to help you eat is just as useful as a glass of fruity sangria wine punch to wash it down.

CHEW ON CHURROS

These long, fried pastries covered in cinnamon and sugar not only taste better in Spain, where they originated long ago, but they're also available in their first incarnation: served with a rich cup of hot chocolate, a meal so satisfying it's not even considered dessert.

Related Ports

Discover Spain, Portugal and the Canary Islands in-depth. Read about Málaga, the hub of Spain's Costa del Sol where Pablo Picasso was born, or Portugal's colorful capital Lisbon. Then get to know the Canary Islands, from the busy beaches of Tenerife to peaceful La Palma.

Barcelona, Spain

Bilbao, Spain

Gibraltar, United Kingdom

Gijon, Spain

Lisbon, Portugal

Alicante, Spain

Cartagena, Spain

Gran Canaria, Canary Islands

Ibiza, Spain

La Palma, Canary Islands

Madeira (Funchal), Portugal

La Coruna, Spain

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Ponta Delgada, Azores

Tenerife, Canary Islands

Vigo, Spain

Palma De Mallorca, Spain

Málaga, Spain

Valencia, Spain

Porto (Leixoes), Portugal

Cadiz, Spain

Seville (Cadiz), Spain

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Portugal Cruises

Mastering the Balance Between Casual, Cultural and Charming

History, great food, and beautiful scenery are just the beginning of your experience on a Mediterranean cruise to Portugal . Located on the Atlantic Ocean, Portugal is a friendly, low-key cruise destination with a casual vibe and fantastic coastline. Destinations on a Portugal cruise include Lisbon  and Funchal , the capital of the Portuguese island of Madeira.     Lisbon is known for its Manueline architecture. This lavish design native to Portugal, is best observed when touring monuments and exploring medieval alleyways. One fine example is the Belem Tower , a UNESCO World Heritage site dating back to 1514 that commemorates the expedition of explorer Vasco da Gama. The climb to the top of the tower offers spectacular views of the river and city. For those looking for more a leisurely travel experience, Lisbon offers spectacular scenic views from its famous seven hills , with vantage points to admire the city’s horizon.     Funchal , the capital of Madeira features botanical gardens with an abundance of variety and colour. In Funchal, cable cars are a popular mode of transportation to the hilltop town of Monte. After a day of exploring the historic old town, the Monte Toboggans , and the cable car, return to your cruise ship and enjoy all of the on board amenities.    Spending the afternoon in a restaurant admiring the coastline and enjoying the culinary delights of Portugal is a lovely way to experience the local culture during a Portugal cruise. Freshly baked bread, cheese, olives, chargrilled fish, and smoked meats accompanied by red wine, or crisp young white wine exemplify a typical simple and delicious meal which the Portuguese have perfected.     Book your cruise to Portugal with MSC Cruises, and enjoy a world of natural beauty and a range of gastronomic delights that will make your holiday a truly memorable experience.    

portugal Ports

Civitavecchia

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• Funchal (Madeira Is.), Portugal
• Leixoes (Porto), Portugal
• Lisbon, Portugal
• Ponta Delgada (Azores), Portugal

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• Porto to Porto

Douro’s Valleys & Vineyards

• From £3,795
• 6 Guided Tours
• 2 Countries
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Douro’s Valleys & Vineyards Map

Enjoy rich beauty & history

Journey through the Douro River valley and into the history of fine Portuguese wine. Surrounded by terraced hills, spot some of the area’s quintas, clinging to the slopes. Experience Porto, where you can roam the port warehouses and take in the town’s cultural heritage. Visit Régua, Barca d’Alva and Favaios, home to one of the last traditional bakeries in the Douro Valley. Explore Salamanca, Spain, a UNESCO Site and one of Iberia’s oldest university towns.

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Portugal River Cruises

Cruises From Lisbon 2024

Portugal, Spain & the Douro River Valley

11 days | porto to lisbon.

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Sunday 14 April 2024

Porto to Lisbon

End Date: Wed 24 Apr 2024 Wednesday 24 April 2024

Pricing displayed above is Single Occupancy Pricing. Click here to view Standard/Double Occupancy Pricing.

Book early for the best pricing and availability.

Sunday 21 April 2024

End Date: Wed 1 May 2024 Wednesday 1 May 2024

Sunday 28 April 2024

End Date: Wed 8 May 2024 Wednesday 8 May 2024

Sunday 5 May 2024

End Date: Wed 15 May 2024 Wednesday 15 May 2024

Sunday 12 May 2024

End Date: Wed 22 May 2024 Wednesday 22 May 2024

Sunday 19 May 2024

End Date: Wed 29 May 2024 Wednesday 29 May 2024

Sunday 26 May 2024

End Date: Wed 5 Jun 2024 Wednesday 5 June 2024

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River Heritage Club savings and amenities are available to guests after completing their first Uniworld cruise. Exclusive savings are based on the cruise or cruise/tour-only price (including any upgrades and single supplement). Savings are combinable with all current Uniworld promotions. All applicable discounts are applied sequentially; fixed savings amounts are deducted prior to applying any percentage-based discounts. Restrictions may apply.

Sunday 2 June 2024

End Date: Wed 12 Jun 2024 Wednesday 12 June 2024

Sunday 9 June 2024

End Date: Wed 19 Jun 2024 Wednesday 19 June 2024

Sunday 16 June 2024

End Date: Wed 26 Jun 2024 Wednesday 26 June 2024

Sunday 23 June 2024

End Date: Wed 3 Jul 2024 Wednesday 3 July 2024

SAVE $2,500 per person on all stateroom categories. Book by 30 April 2024 and pay in full at time of booking to be eligible for this offer. Note: Discounted pricing shown above is inclusive of 2024 Cruise Savings .

"The 2024 Cruise Savings Event" offer requires payment in full at time of booking and is valid for new, individual bookings on select 2024 itineraries and departure dates only. Bookings must be made between 1 February 2024 and 30 April 2024. Offer applies to full-fare bookings only and is valid for any stateroom category. All fares and savings listed are in Australian dollars. Savings featured are for cruise or cruise/tour only. Savings featured are per person based on double occupancy, and do not apply to other optional holiday add-ons. Rates and savings vary by itinerary and departure date. Offer is not combinable with any other promotional offer, program, or price protection credits except standard River Heritage Club member savings/benefits. All applicable discounts are applied sequentially; fixed savings amounts are deducted prior to applying any percentage-based discounts. Offer is capacity controlled and may be modified or withdrawn at any time. Other restrictions may apply. Offer expires 30 April 2024.

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This voyage is available for solo travellers with zero single supplement on select stateroom categories. Book by 30 April 2024.

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Sunday 27 October 2024

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End Date: Wed 13 Nov 2024 Wednesday 13 November 2024

Sunday 10 November 2024

End Date: Wed 20 Nov 2024 Wednesday 20 November 2024

Sunday 17 November 2024

End Date: Wed 27 Nov 2024 Wednesday 27 November 2024

Sunday 24 November 2024

End Date: Wed 4 Dec 2024 Wednesday 4 December 2024

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S.S. São Gabriel

Grand suite azores deck.

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Grand Suite - S.S. São Gabriel

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Suite Floorplan - S.S. São Gabriel

• Suite (220 sq ft - 20.4 sq m).

French Balcony Cape Verde Deck

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French Balcony - S.S. São Gabriel

French Balcony Floorplan - S.S. São Gabriel

• French Balcony (156 sq ft - 14.5 sq m).

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Deluxe - S.S. São Gabriel

Deluxe Floorplan - S.S. São Gabriel

• Deluxe (156 sq ft - 14.5 sq m).

Classic Madeira Deck

Stateroom Category 5 /5

Classic - S.S. São Gabriel

Classic Floorplan - S.S. São Gabriel

• Classic (135 sq ft - 12.5 sq m).

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Passing Thru Travel

Navigating 15 Majestic Rivers – A 2024 Guide to River Cruises and Expeditions

Posted: February 21, 2024 | Last updated: February 21, 2024

Embark on a journey through the veins of our planet – its great rivers. This guide will take you through the most iconic river expeditions, offering a unique perspective on the landscapes, cultures, and histories of various regions. From the Danube’s serene waters to the Amazon’s wild rapids, each river tells a story waiting to be explored.

1. The Amazon River, South America

Your adventure on the Amazon River immerses you in the densest rainforest on Earth. Starting from Iquitos, Peru, this expedition brings you face-to-face with a vast ecosystem, home to an incredible variety of wildlife. Cruising down this river, expect to encounter pink river dolphins, sloths, and a multitude of bird species. Night expeditions add an extra thrill, revealing the nocturnal life of the Amazon. The sounds of the jungle, coupled with the knowledgeable guides, make this a nature lover’s paradise.

Insider’s Tip: Book a small boat tour for a more intimate wildlife experience.

When To Travel: May to June for lower water levels and better wildlife sightings.

How To Get There: Fly to Lima, Peru, and then take a domestic flight to Iquitos.

2. The Nile River, Egypt

Cruise the Nile and step into a world of ancient wonders. The journey typically begins in Luxor or Aswan, taking you through a landscape dotted with temples and historical sites. You’ll see the Luxor Temple illuminated at night, the imposing statues of Ramses II at Abu Simbel, and traditional feluccas sailing the river. This cruise isn’t just about sightseeing; it’s an immersion into the heart of ancient Egyptian civilization, with each stop narrating a chapter from its rich history.

Insider’s Tip: Visit during late fall to avoid the scorching summer heat.

When To Travel: October to April for cooler temperatures.

How To Get There: Fly to Cairo, then take a domestic flight to Luxor.

3. The Danube River, Europe

A Danube River cruise is a picturesque journey through the heart of Europe. The river passes through historic cities and beautiful landscapes, offering a mix of cultural and natural attractions. You’ll explore Vienna’s architectural splendor, Regensburg’s medieval charm, and Budapest’s vibrant culture. Each city along the Danube has its own unique appeal, from grand palaces and museums to quaint villages and local markets.

Insider’s Tip: Look for cruises that offer cultural tours in each city.

When To Travel: May to September for pleasant weather.

How To Get There: Fly to a major city like Budapest or Vienna to start your journey.

4. The Mississippi River, USA

The Mississippi River cruise offers a deep dive into the heart of American culture and history. The cruise heads north through the American heartland, starting from the vibrant New Orleans, famous for its jazz and Creole cuisine. You’ll pass historic river towns, witness the rolling landscapes of the Midwest, and learn about the river’s role in America’s development. Onboard, enjoy live jazz, lectures about the river’s history, and Southern hospitality.

Insider’s Tip: Spend a few extra days in New Orleans for its rich musical heritage.

When To Travel: Spring or fall for moderate weather.

How To Get There: Fly into New Orleans or Minneapolis, depending on your starting point.

5. The Yangtze River, China

Your journey on the Yangtze River will take you through the heart of China, offering a blend of modern wonders and ancient traditions. The highlight of the cruise is the breathtaking Three Gorges, where steep cliffs rise dramatically from the water. Beyond the natural beauty, you’ll experience the engineering marvel of the Three Gorges Dam and explore lesser-known sites like the Shibaozhai Pagoda. The cruise provides insights into China’s history and culture, with stops in bustling cities and tranquil villages.

Insider’s Tip: Opt for a cruise that includes a visit to the Lesser Three Gorges.

When To Travel: April to October for the best river conditions.

How To Get There: Fly to major cities like Chongqing or Shanghai, depending on your itinerary.

6. The Rhine River, Europe

The Rhine River cruise is a journey through European history and culture. Starting from Amsterdam, the river takes you through the heart of Germany and into Switzerland, with stops at historic cities, medieval castles, and vineyard-covered hills. The Middle Rhine Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is particularly stunning, with its picturesque villages and the legendary Lorelei Rock. Each port along the Rhine offers its own unique attractions, from Gothic cathedrals to lively beer gardens.

Insider’s Tip: Take a vineyard tour in one of the quaint towns along the river.

When To Travel: April to October for pleasant cruising weather.

How To Get There: Fly to Amsterdam or Basel to start your journey.

7. The Mekong River, Southeast Asia

A cruise down the Mekong River is an exploration of Southeast Asia’s diverse cultures and landscapes. The journey often begins in Vietnam’s vibrant Ho Chi Minh City, winding through rural landscapes and floating markets before reaching the mystical temples of Angkor Wat in Cambodia. Along the way, you’ll witness daily life on the river, visit local artisans, and taste regional specialties. The Mekong’s rich cultural tapestry is matched only by its scenic beauty, with lush greenery and traditional villages lining its banks.

Insider’s Tip: Extend your trip to explore the Angkor Wat temple complex.

When To Travel: November to February for cooler, drier weather.

How To Get There: Fly to Ho Chi Minh City or Siem Reap to begin your cruise.

8. The Volga River, Russia

The Volga River cruise is a window into Russia’s soul, connecting the cosmopolitan cities of Moscow and St. Petersburg with the quieter, historic towns along the river. Moscow’s Red Square and the Kremlin, the opulent palaces of St. Petersburg, and the ancient towns of Russia’s Golden Ring provide a rich tapestry of Russian history and culture. With its serene landscapes and diverse wildlife, the river offers a peaceful backdrop to the bustling cities.

Insider’s Tip: Try traditional Russian dishes like borscht and pelmeni on board.

When To Travel: May to September for warmer weather.

How To Get There: Start your journey in either Moscow or St. Petersburg.

9. The Douro River, Portugal

Cruising the Douro River takes you through Portugal’s famous wine country, renowned for its Port wine production. Starting from the coastal city of Porto, the cruise travels through the Douro Valley, with its terraced vineyards and quaint villages. You’ll have opportunities to visit local wineries, taste regional cuisine, and explore historic towns like Peso da Régua and Pinhão. The Douro’s scenic beauty is a constant companion, with its rolling hills and serene waters.

Insider’s Tip: Take a port wine-tasting tour in one of the vineyards.

When To Travel: March to October for the best weather and wine harvest season.

How To Get There: Fly to Porto to start your river cruise.

10. The Ganges River, India

A cruise on the Ganges takes you through the spiritual heart of India. Starting from the historic city of Kolkata, the journey heads towards the holy city of Varanasi, passing through rural Bengal with its traditional villages and temples. The Ganges is not just a river; it’s a lifeline for millions and a sacred entity in Hinduism. Witnessing the river’s rituals, from the daily baths to the grand aarti ceremonies, is a profoundly moving experience.

Insider’s Tip: Witness the evening aarti ceremony in Varanasi for a spiritual experience.

When To Travel: October to March for cooler temperatures.

How To Get There: Fly to New Delhi and take a domestic flight or train to Varanasi.

11. The Amazon River, Brazil

The Brazilian Amazon offers a unique river experience, navigating through the world’s largest rainforest and its intricate network of tributaries. Starting from Manaus, you’ll venture deep into the jungle, exploring its diverse flora and fauna. The expedition includes visits to remote indigenous communities, offering a glimpse into their way of life. The Amazon’s wildlife is a major draw, with chances to see monkeys, birds, and perhaps even the elusive jaguar.

Insider’s Tip: Pack insect-repellent and lightweight, long-sleeved clothing for jungle excursions.

When To Travel: July to December for the dry season and better wildlife viewing.

How To Get There: Fly to Manaus, the main gateway for Brazilian Amazon cruises.

12. The Seine River, France

Cruising the Seine River combines the romance of Paris with the charm of France’s countryside. The journey typically starts or ends in the French capital, allowing time to explore its iconic landmarks. As you sail away from Paris, the Seine takes you through picturesque landscapes and historic towns like Rouen and Honfleur. The river’s pace is leisurely, offering ample time to soak in the scenery and enjoy the French way of life.

Insider’s Tip: Enjoy a Parisian evening meal on the riverbank for a memorable experience.

When To Travel: April to October for pleasant cruising conditions.

How To Get There: Start your journey in Paris, easily accessible by international flights.

13. The Zambezi River, Africa

Embark on a journey down the Zambezi River in Africa for a truly unique cruising experience. As you navigate these waters, you’ll be awed by the majestic Victoria Falls, one of the planet’s largest and most stunning waterfalls. This adventure isn’t just about the breathtaking scenery; it’s also an opportunity to witness the rich African wildlife that inhabits the riverbanks. Hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species are just some of the fauna you might encounter. For an insider tip, consider taking a sunset cruise to witness the falls bathed in golden hues.

Insider’s Tip: Take a sunset cruise for stunning views of Victoria Falls.

When To Travel: May to October for the dry season and optimal wildlife viewing.

How To Get There: Fly to Livingstone, Zambia, or Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.

14. The Chobe River, Botswana/Namibia

The Chobe River, straddling the borders of Botswana and Namibia, offers a unique cruising experience that doubles as an extraordinary safari adventure. This river delineates the northern edge of the famous Chobe National Park, a sanctuary renowned for its massive elephant populations and diverse wildlife. As you cruise along the river, you can expect to see large herds of elephants bathing, along with a variety of other animals quenching their thirst along the banks. A river safari is highly recommended for those seeking an even closer encounter with nature.

Insider’s Tip: Opt for a river safari for close-up wildlife encounters.

When To Travel: May to October for the dry season, ideal for wildlife spotting.

How To Get There: Fly to Kasane, Botswana, to start your river safari.

15. The Irrawaddy River, Myanmar

A cruise along the Irrawaddy River explores Myanmar’s rich historical tapestry and vibrant cultural heritage. This journey is more than just a scenic ride; it’s a passage through time, where you’ll witness the enduring legacy of ancient civilizations. As the river winds through Myanmar, you’ll encounter spectacular sights such as the ancient pagodas, traditional villages, and the historic city of Bagan, a site renowned for its thousands of temples and stupas. These architectural marvels offer a glimpse into a past era of opulent kingdoms and spiritual devotion. For an authentic experience, visit a local village to immerse yourself in the daily life and customs of the Burmese people.

Insider’s Tip: Visit a local village for an authentic glimpse into Burmese life.

How To Get There: Fly to Yangon or Mandalay, where many cruises begin.

The Bottom Line

River cruises offer a unique way to explore the world, combining the comfort of travel with the excitement of discovery. Each river has its own character, culture, and history, making every journey distinct. As you chart your course down these majestic waterways, you’re not just a traveler but an explorer uncovering the stories that flow through the heart of our world. So, pack your bags, set sail, and let the river’s current guide you to new adventures.

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The post Navigating 15 Majestic Rivers – A 2024 Guide to River Cruises and Expeditions was republished on Passing Thru with permission from The Green Voyage .

Featured Image Credit: Shutterstock / Calin Stan.

For transparency, this content was partly developed with AI assistance and carefully curated by an experienced editor to be informative and ensure accuracy.

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