europe river cruise routes

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Europe River Cruises

Experience the magic of Europe along its majestic rivers! From the Rhine to the Douro , from the Main to the Danube , we have cruises all through Europe, ranging from 1 days up to 31 days. The most popular month for these cruises is August, which has the most tour departures. Looking outside of Europe? See all river cruises .

250+ European river cruises with 1,197 reviews

• River Cruise

Romantic Rhine (Southbound) 2024

First river cruise wont be our last! So relaxing with exquisite dining and accommodations on board. Definitely an older crowd, but you get to know almost everyone on board by the end of the tour and most are very pleasant and having as much fun as we did! So nice compared to big boat cruising; no pressure to see and do all the offerings. many included excursions were nice, with easy low effort walking offered. Transfers were perfect.

Romantic Rhine (Northbound) 2024

Fine dining filled by fine dancing

Danube Serenade: Romantic Journey from Vienna to Bucharest (Turnu Magurele) , MS Fidelio

Classic Rhine cruise (Amsterdam-Basel) MS Crucevita

Fantastic cruise with welcoming and professional staff who went above and beyond to ensure we enjoyed our cruise. Comfortable beds, flexible cabins that could be reconfigured during the day to provide lounge chairs, great food with good choice at each meal, great rapport with staff, and a small, clean, ship. Loved our experience.

Grand Danube Cruise 2024

Captivating Rhine 2024 Start Amsterdam, End Basel

From the Blue Danube to the Black Sea (port-to-port cruise) (11 destinations)

Crosieurope had nice food, plenty of beer and wine, very clean boat - both inside and out. Staff were very nice and helpful, always cleaning windows, carpet, etc. The administration staff were a bit at times disorganised. Sometimes they would forget to give message in English after they delivered Message in French.

Danube Classics Vienna 2024 (10 destinations)

Splendours of Europe (Start Amsterdam, End Budapest)

The program in the Emerald ship was magnificently planned and discussed. The local music during the cruise was so informative. Long live the music from the Netherlands and Germany through Austria and Slovakya to Hungary! Just for the music, dances and songs I will do the cruise again!

The beautiful blue Danube (port-to-port cruise)

The tour exceeded all our expectations. We will definitely recognize this company to all our friends and family. Will also do another one in the near future.

Splendours of Europe (Start Budapest, End Amsterdam)

Danube Classics Vienna 2024 (8 destinations)

We had a generally good experience. Most new passengers board in Engelhartszell, but 17 passengers boarded the ship in Vienna. We boarded in Vienna and didn’t receive new passenger orientation, which includes basic ship, safety and excursion presentations. The crew was very friendly, although it was primarily a German language oriented cruise lines.

Enchanting Danube (2024) (Budapest to Passau, 2024)

Classical Rhine Cruise (Amsterdam - Basel) (10 destinations)

We thoroughly enjoyed our cruise. It was well organized and the food was superb.

Enchanting Danube (2024) (Passau to Budapest, 2024)

This was our first river cruise and everything went beyond our expectation. Services: the staff were accommodating and helpful. Tours: various excursions to choose from for different age group and they were well-organized. Ship: beautiful boutique-design ship. The only cons is a slow Wifi connection but it ain't a big deal. There were so many onboard activity that kept us entertaining. I noticed that the cruise operates in eco-friendly manner, i.e. they eliminates sing-use plastic. That's a big plus!!!!

European River Cruises Reviews

It was a great cruise. The food was amazing, the crew was really helpful, and the tours and tour guides were great. The only thing to imporve on if the WiFi which only worked half the time.

The Wi-Fi didn’t work as expected and it caused quite an inconvenience. The excursion plan is not as clear either. Overall it’s still a good tour but I think my last Danube river with Avalon is better than this rhino river cruise.

Great company to cruise with. Ship carries 110 passengers. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner each day. Plenty of stops to sightsee. The castles along the Rhine make trip a very enjoyable cruise. All staff were great.

Popular Cruise Ships

• Avalon Passion from Avalon Waterways
• Avalon Tranquility II from Avalon Waterways
• Scenic Opal from Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours
• Scenic Jasper from Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours
• Avalon Imagery II from Avalon Waterways
• Emerald Sky from Emerald Cruises
• Avalon Envision from Avalon Waterways
• Avalon Impression from Avalon Waterways
• Emerald Destiny from Emerald Cruises
• Emerald Dawn from Emerald Cruises
• Emerald Sun from Emerald Cruises
• Avalon Expression from Avalon Waterways

Travel Styles

• 10 Best River Cruise Companies (with Reviews)
• 10 Best Luxury River Cruises & Lines 2022
• Best 3 Weeks Europe Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
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• Hiking in Europe in January
• Hiking in Europe in March
• Hiking in Europe in April
• Hiking in Europe in May
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Experience a world beyond your expectations. Choose from our award-winning vacations on virtually every continent with local favorites and off-the-beaten-path experiences only Globus can share.

We know why you travel. You’d rather have an extra day exploring than a fancy chocolate on your pillow at night. Enjoy hand-selected inclusions and world-class experiences for value-minded travel lovers like you.

Raise your sights and set your sails for the rivers of Europe, South America, Asia, and Africa on an Avalon Waterways cruise. Elevate your cruise experience with fewer passengers, more choices, and endless possibilities.

Europe River Cruises

9 best river cruises in Europe

River cruising in Europe is one of those delightfully slow and easy modes of travel. You're in a small floating hotel, exploring calm inland waters, gliding past castles and vineyards and scenery that changes by the hour.

Daily escorted walking tours and other excursions provided by the river line take you to key UNESCO World Heritage Sites and other city and village attractions you've come to see. Or you can choose to explore on your own, which is easy since your ship often will dock right in town.

Lazy afternoons on the ship afford the time to sit in a lounge chair and watch the world go by — kids swimming from the riverbanks, farmers tending their crops, river birds flapping their wings — as you glide to your next destination.

Which European river should you explore? The choices are broader than you might expect.

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The main rivers in Europe are the Danube and the Rhine and their tributaries. They are, by far, the most popular, doable either on one-week segments or longer itineraries that combine areas and sometimes combine rivers. Even if your cruise is only a week, don't underestimate the allure of relaxing for seven days on a river in France or on the dreamy Douro in Portugal.

Here are the best river cruises in Europe.

Upper Danube

When it comes to Europe river cruises, a perfect seven-night starter sailing is the Upper Danube, which takes you through centuries of history as you explore Germany, Austria, Slovakia and Hungary.

Ships visit such cultural hubs as Vienna, with its opera and art museums and elaborate royal palaces, and Budapest, Hungary, with its magnificent architecture and modern vibe. If your ship passes the Hungarian Parliament building at night, you're in for a treat; magnificently lit, it's one of the most photographed sights on the river.

Along the route, between Melk and Krems in Austria, you cruise through the Wachau Valley, a key wine-growing region producing rieslings and gruner veltliners, with sipping opportunities available. It's also a great place to bike, which is why it's nice to sail with lines, such as AmaWaterways , that carry bikes on board for passengers to use.

You might also have the option of a side trip to Salzburg, Austria, the birthplace of Mozart — and also where several scenes for the movie "Sound of Music" were filmed. A surprise for many is Old Town Bratislava, Slovakia, which might not have been on your must-do list but which charms with its beer culture and castles.

Related: Booking your first river cruise? Here's what you need to know.

Lower Danube

For a deep dive into Eastern Europe's past and present, the fascinating Lower Danube route between Budapest and Bucharest, Romania, explores history from the medieval times and Victorian era of Dracula to the rise of communism and the Bosnian War.

The seven-night river cruise takes you through Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria and Romania. The most beautiful stretch of the river is a 62-mile passage through a gorge between the Balkan and Carpathian Mountains. It's also one of the deepest stretches of river in the world.

Other sights accessed on shore excursions via bus include Bulgaria's Belogradchik Rocks, which are naturally carved towering red rock pinnacles that appear to take forms such as "Madonna with child," and Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria's stunning medieval capital.

When it comes to top cruising rivers in Europe, the Rhine wins for natural beauty and fairytale landscapes. A cruise on the river between Amsterdam in The Netherlands, and Basel, Switzerland — a typical one-week route — takes you past expanses of slope-side vineyards, forests and mountains, historic cities and medieval half-timbered villages.

That's even before you get to the Upper Middle Rhine Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This 40-mile stretch of river, between Rudesheim and Koblenz, Germany, has castles galore — you might imagine Rapunzel letting down her hair — and Lorelei Rock, the legendary cliff said to distract sailors with the mesmerizing song of a maiden.

The French city of Strasbourg, with its famous Gothic cathedral and robust Alsatian culinary scene, is often a favorite stop on Rhine itineraries, with other highlights including Heidelberg, Germany, and its imposing castle.

Related: Christmas market river cruises: What to expect on a holiday sailing

Sure, you can catch sight of the Eiffel Tower when boarding a river ship in Paris, but you can do that while staying in a hotel, too. The real attractions of a Seine River cruise are sailing on the river outside the city toward the English Channel and a visit to the beaches in Normandy for a perspective on World War II.

Your visit there and to the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial, as well as other memorials and monuments to the fallen, is a poignant experience (one that requires a two-hour bus ride from your ship, however). Avalon Waterways brings a World War II expert on board to add insight on select sailings.

Other treasures exist along the Seine, not the least of which is Giverny, the home and gardens of impressionist artist Claude Monet. If you are a fan of his art, much of the property might seem familiar.

In historic Rouen, where Joan of Arc was martyred in the Middle Ages, stop by the Rouen Cathedral (another subject of Monet) before losing yourself on cobblestone streets with wonderful cafes.

Related: River cruise packing list: What to pack when traveling by riverboat

Bordeaux river cruises are different from other water routes because you explore two short waterways — the Dordogne and Garonne Rivers — and the Gironde Estuary in Southwest France.

You'll spend more time ashore than floating down the river on this itinerary, with your ship docked for two nights in the city of Bordeaux, a mini-Paris with grand 18th-century buildings. Who cares when you are in the epicenter of French culture, in one of the most celebrated wine regions in the world?

Bordeaux serves up the opportunity to sip Medoc, Margaux, Saint-Emilion, Pomerol and Sauternes wines as you expand your wine education. You'll visit vineyards and gorgeous chateaus. Your cruise line might even host a dinner at a wine estate one evening. If you plan your cruise for September or October, you'll be able to admire the grape harvest.

Related: The 5 best cruise lines for solo travelers

Rhone and Saone

Another must for wine-lovers is exploring the interior of France, sipping Cotes du Rhone in such famous winemaking regions as Hermitage and Chateauneuf-du-Pape in Provence and Beaune in Burgundy.

Rhone and Saone River cruises typically sail between Lyon and Arles or Avignon, and they're top-loaded with such non-wine attractions as the Roman aqueduct Pont du Gard and the Roman Arles Amphitheater, as well as the massive Palais des Papes (Papal Palace) in Avignon. You'll also be able to take in the lavender fields, haystacks and other scenes that inspired painters like Paul Cezanne and Vincent Van Gogh.

For a lazy, dreamy, wonderful river cruise experience, nothing quite beats exploring the wine regions of Portugal on the Douro, one of the major rivers through the Iberian Peninsula. The home base for these river cruises is Porto, Portugal, with its historic city center, spectacular bridges and port houses.

On one-week cruises, you'll follow the river 130 miles past green hillside vineyards in the Douro River Valley, a UNESCO-recognized destination, before turning around at the Spanish border. The river cruises typically include a visit to the university town of Salamanca in northern Spain. Viticulture is very much the lesson en route, as you learn about port production on the "River of Gold."

Related: 5 cruise lines to try if you just can't stand being around kids on vacation

Due to fluctuating water levels and narrow passages, the Elbe is a challenging river that runs 680 miles between the Czech Republic and Germany. Historically, it formed part of the border between East Germany and West Germany.

River cruising here is a rare experience. Viking River Cruises is one of the few lines that visits (another is the French line CroisiEurope), offering 10-day itineraries that combine hotel stays in the cities of Berlin and Prague with a stretch of river between Prague and Wittenburg, Germany.

The cruises are on ships built specifically for the Elbe route. They stop in places such as resurgent Dresden, heavily bombed during World War II but expertly rebuilt; the Saxon Switzerland region of Germany with its striking sandstone rock formations; and the spa town of Bad Schandau.

The Po River in northern Italy is tidal, making it another challenging waterway. However, it affords the opportunity to combine a visit to Venice with a river cruise. Uniworld Boutique River Cruises does the Po in high style with its 126-passenger S.S. La Venizia, completely decked out with a sense of place, from Fortuny fabrics and Murano glass to its gilded accents.

The one-week route doesn't take you far but does include the walled city of Padua, the charming fishing village of Chioggia, and the culinary mecca of Bologna.

For those looking for a longer experience, Uniworld cleverly combines a Po cruise with luxury rail journeys to places like Istanbul, Switzerland and beyond.

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• River Cruises

15 of the Best European River Cruises

Explore France, Germany, and more on these European river cruises.

Much of the appeal of European river cruises, especially as we emerge from the pandemic with pent-up travel demand, is the small size of the ships, casual atmosphere, and accessibility. Unlike oceangoing ships that carry as many as 5,000 passengers, most river cruise ships accommodate around 150 guests, for a more intimate experience. Balconies, floor-to-ceiling windows, and open-air viewing are features of most river cruise ships, and some offer pools, spas, fitness areas, and jogging tracks.

Guests are kept busy (if they wish to be) with daily shore excursions, and most cruises offer several options depending on interests and activity levels. Bikes and walking tours are available in most ports, or guests can choose a leisurely day in a comfortable lounge enjoying the passing scenery.

"River cruises offer opportunities to step ashore in fairy-tale towns and fabled cities. You can immerse yourself in contemporary culture and learn something about the history of the towns along the continent's greatest rivers," according to Ralph Grizzle of River Cruise Advisor . "Sitting on the top deck of a ship under brilliant blue skies, you can gaze on fabled landscapes dotted with castles, villages, and vineyards. A flight of stairs down, and you have all the amenities of a modern hotel—restaurants, bars, fitness facilities, spas, internet access, and comfortable staterooms."

With a number of cruise companies and rivers to choose from, planning a river cruise can take some time. Consulting with a travel advisor is always a good idea, and there's plenty of information available online as well. These are the major companies offering the best European river cruises along with examples of their itineraries.

Perhaps the best known of the river cruise companies, Viking promotes their "longships," which include large suites and inviting verandas for outdoor dining. Guests enjoy Viking's destination-focused dining as well as the variety of staterooms and itineraries with a wide range of prices.

Viking's 10-day "Portugal's River of Gold '' begins in Lisbon with a walking tour through its ancient streets before heading to Porto, home of the country's traditional wine, to board the ship and begin the cruise along the Douro River. Guests can explore Baroque palaces, vineyards, and lush scenery along the way, arriving in the World Heritage city of Salamanca, Spain on day six. The itinerary includes visits to Portuguese villages in Pinhão and Régua to sample local foods and wines before returning to Porto.

AmaWaterways

Celebrating their 20th anniversary in 2022, this family-owned and operated cruise company focuses on excellent food and wine, tasteful décor, stateroom views, and innovation in their luxurious fleet. Fares include fitness classes, shore excursions, and all dining on board, including The Chef's Table specialty restaurant. New ships debut each year, and the spacious AmaMagna , launched in 2019, is nearly twice the width of traditional European cruise ships.

Wine lovers will want to experience the seven-night "Taste of Bordeaux," with visits to iconic chateaux, timeless vineyards, and delicious wine tastings while cruising the Garonne and Dordogne Rivers. Excursions include a tour of a medieval castle and tasting of Sauternes, a stop in Pauillac, gateway to the Medoc wine region, and a Saint-Emilion tour and tasting. Returning to Bordeaux, guests will explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site and capital of the wine world.

Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

Uniworld's one-of-a-kind vessels are inspired by the locales they visit, making their luxurious ships a destination in themselves. Billed as "the world's only authentic boutique cruise line," Uniworld offers in-suite butler service, world-class cuisine, and all-inclusive rates that cover premium spirits and wines as well as gratuities.

Their eight-day "Enchanting Danube" cruise aboard the S.S. Maria Theresa begins in Budapest with a choice of touring by bicycle or walking. A stop in Vienna includes a Mozart and Strauss concert at a Viennese palace, a city tour, and a taste of local delicacies. The cruise ends in Passau with a choice of bicycling, walking, or hiking to explore the city and a special captain's farewell reception and dinner.

Avalon Waterways

Avalon features wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling windows with beds facing the views for ultimate enjoyment from their suites and staterooms. Large private bathrooms include full showers and L'Occitane bath amenities. Their deluxe beds and luxurious linens provide comfort in spacious, quiet quarters with ample closet space. Avalon offers "Active & Discovery" river cruises with activities for a variety of energy and fitness levels, from traditional sightseeing to action-packed experiences.

The "Active & Discovery on the Rhone" cruise begins in Lyon and heads south through the French countryside of Provence and ends in Port-Saint-Louis. On the way, Avalon Choice excursions include a culinary walk, cooking class, painting workshop, wine tastings, guided bike rides, and more, with Active, Classic, and Discovery level activities.

Started as a New England motor coach tour company, Tauck is a family-owned global travel firm offering tours and cruises to a wide range of destinations around the world. Their award-winning European river cruises are praised for their personalized service, exclusive destination experiences, luxurious cabins and suites, fine dining, and professional, caring staff.

"Impressions from the Seine: Paris to Normandy," an eight-day cruise, features stops in historic small villages and towns and a visit to the D-Day beaches of Normandy and the American Cemetery at Omaha Beach. A private visit to the home and gardens of Claude Monet at Giverny and a visit to the Impressionist Museum will please art lovers. Other highlights include a guided visit to Versailles, Louis XIV's magnificent palace and gardens, the Cathedrale de Rouen, and Joan of Arc Square.

Scenic offers both ocean and river cruises, all with emphasis on its fleet of "Space-Ships" and their meticulous design and spacious quarters. Guests enjoy personalized butler service and all-inclusive cruising. Ships offer a wellness area, massage services, gym, e-bikes, and onboard entertainment. Scenic's "FreeChoice" excursions offer something for all activity levels.

The "Charming Castles & Vineyards of the Rhine & Moselle" begins with arrival in Frankfurt and transfer to Mainz for boarding. Stops include Koblenz, where guests can take a walking or e-bike tour. There's a private classical music concert and tour of Reichsburg Castle along the way, as well as optional visits to the Mercedes-Benz factory or a walking tour of Strasbourg and its magnificent cathedral.

Emerald Cruises

Emerald offers both yacht and river cruises, with a range of cruises on the rivers in Europe. Founded in 2013, Emerald now features a fleet of nine "Star-Ships," with stylish suites, first-class amenities, and room for 180 guests. Most carry bicycles, and all staterooms are equipped with hiking poles. Excursions include the EmeraldPLUS program of special experiences to connect with their destinations, and EmeraldACTIVE offers faster-paced guided tours, bike rides, hikes, and activities.

The eight-day "Sensations of Lyon & Provence" cruise begins in Lyon and heads to a quaint village and then south again towards Tournon, with its 16th-century castle. Along the way, guests can choose a hike through vineyards, canoe trip, village walking tours, or wine tasting onboard.

Adventures by Disney River Cruises

Partnering with AmaWaterways, Adventures by Disney offers cruises on the Seine, Rhine, and Danube Rivers, Disney style. Specially designed itineraries and Adventure Guides create experiences for parents, children, and teens, from active excursions to unique onboard activities. Adults-only dinners and wine tasting experiences along with teen programming, Disney movie nights, karaoke, trivia nights, and Junior Adventurer dinners provide entertainment for guests of all ages.

The eight-day Danube River Cruise starts in Budapest where excursions include a horse show at an equestrian park and a goulash-making competition for Adventurers. In Bratislava, Junior Adventurers can visit a petting zoo, and in the evening, there's family karaoke. A tour of Vienna and Schönbrunn Palace, marionette show, concert, and strudel making are options the next day. A day in Salzburg ends onboard with "The Sound of Music" film and singalong. After an Oktoberfest celebration and captain's farewell dinner, the cruise ends the next day.

CroisiEurope Cruises

Established in 1976, Croisi offers cruises on rivers, canals, and seas with a fleet of oceangoing ships, canal barges, and river cruise ships. The company's innovative approach allowed them to be pioneers on several rivers in Europe including the Gironde, Loire, Po, and Elbe, basing their ships' design on the characteristics of the waterways.

CroisiEurope's seven-day "Hamburg to Berlin: Discover the Medieval Charms of Hanseatic Cities" cruise starts with guided tours of Hamburg and Lübeck, A UNESCO World Heritage Site. After a morning cruise, the ship will ride on the Scharnebeck twin ship lift, one of the highest in Europe, with a vertical lift of 125 feet. An optional visit to the Autostadt theme park, dedicated to German auto design, and an afternoon cruise fill day four. The next day, there's a tour of Magdeburg, known for its fascinating architecture and culture. The ship arrives in Berlin for a tour and festive evening.

This German cruise company' s distinctive ships are easy to recognize by the large red lips and rose on the bow. Their fleet of 12 ships was joined by the new A-Rosa Sena , a hybrid powered ship expected to cruise the northern Rhine almost silently and emission-free. Family-friendly amenities include a kids club, heated outdoor pools, and free passage for children ages 15 and under.

The six-day "Highlights of the Rhine" cruise begins in Cologne and cruises on to Rotterdam and then Amsterdam the following day. Options include a bus tour, canal tour, pedal boats, or private auto tour, each at an additional cost. A variety of ways to explore Utrecht the next day are available. On day six, the ship returns to Cologne.

Lueftner Cruises

This Austrian family business dates back more than 40 years and offers European river cruises on its fleet of 16 AMADEUS ships. Five-star service, facilities, and cuisine are their hallmarks, and their ships feature wide panoramic windows and a spacious sun deck.

The eight-day "Saar and Moselle Fairytales" cruise boards in Cologne and cruises down the Rhine to the Moselle and its tributary, the Saar River. The ship passes the Mosel vineyards and docks in the medieval town of Cochem for a guided walking tour. The next day, guests can tour the town of Bernkastel-Kues and enjoy a wine tasting or hike to the ruins of a castle for a stunning view. After a morning tour of Saarburg, the ship cruises along the Saar River with panoramic views of its massive loop. The ship stops in Luxembourg and then continues to Koblenz, where the Rhine and Moselle Rivers meet, before returning to Cologne.

Apt River Cruises

This Australian-owned organization is the country's largest family-owned tour and cruise company , offering a variety of travel styles. Their Concerto River Ships, AmaVenita , AmaStella , and AmaReina , cruise on the Danube, Main, Rhine, and Douro Rivers with luxury accommodations and excursions. Apt charters the ships from AmaWaterways, but their itineraries and onboard programs are unique to Apt River Cruises. Apt's offerings include rail journeys, as well as small boat, yacht, and ocean cruises.

Their 15-day "Magnificent Europe" cruise begins in Amsterdam with a canal tour and cruises the Rhine, Main, and Danube Rivers before arriving in Budapest. The ship docks in Koblenz and takes a daytime cruise through the Rhine Gorge before landing in Miltenberg for a guided tour of the city. On day six, guests can choose a trip to Rothenburg or visit a family-owned farm for a home-cooked morning tea. The ship passes through the Main-Danube Canal that connects the Black Sea and the North Sea. In Vienna, there's a cocktail party and private orchestra recital or city tour before heading to Budapest for two days.

Nicko Cruises

This German company offers 30 years of experience on Europe's rivers, and has a fleet of 26 river ships in addition to the expedition ship World Voyager and oceangoing Vasco Da Gama . The company's "time to discover" philosophy focuses on intensive travel experiences, shore excursions, and varied culinary offerings.

The eight-day "Traveling on the Elbe and Havel" cruise covers Germany's north on rivers and canals aboard the Frederick Chopin . Starting in Berlin, the cruise continues to Potsdam for a guided walking tour. A guided tour takes guests through Autostadt Wolfsburg, a park dedicated to the history of the automobile. In Hamburg, there's a city tour and harbor cruise before the cruise continues to the Baltic resort, Laboe, and ends in Kiel.

Teeming River Cruises

Founded in 2017 with the goal of making European river cruises more economical and personalized, family-owned American company Teeming River Cruises developed a different river cruise model. Instead of pre-programmed group activities, guests create their own unique experiences with a complimentary city tour app for each destination. All-inclusive plans and group tours are not part of Teeming's itineraries.

Their cruise in northern Italy along the Po River, "From the Canals of Venice to Renaissance-infused Mantua," is a seven-day excursion starting in Venice where guests can discover St. Mark's Square and Doge's Palace. In partnership with CroisiEurope aboard the MS Michelangelo , the ship heads west to Vicenza and then on to Chioggia. Day four is spent in Verona, with its ancient amphitheater and Giusti Gardens. The next days are spent in Cremona and Mantua with disembarkation and a coach trip back to Venice.

Belmond - Afloat in France

Belmond has another way to cruise some of Europe's rivers — on luxury barges with private chefs and excursions like truffle hunting, hot air ballooning, canoeing, and wine tasting. Seven barges make up Afloat in France , each with its own style and size. The elegant barges cruise the waterways of Burgundy, Provence, Alsace, Champagne, Languedoc, and Franche-Comté from April to October.

On the Belmond Napoleon , guests cruise the River Saône past châteaux, rural river towns, and expansive vineyards. Stops at Montmerle, Mâcon, and Tournus offer opportunities for wine tasting and exploring a Benedictine abbey. There's a walking tour of Chalon-Sur-Sâone and time to browse through St. Jean de Losne.

How to Choose the Right European River Cruise for You

By Janice Wald Henderson

Planning your first European river cruise ? Picking a waterway, dates, and budget seem easy enough. Then you find there's an overwhelming choice of boats out there, and with seemingly similar appearances, routes, amenities—even cost. What to do? Read on for our river cruising guide, which will help you learn the distinct personalities and perks of the major river cruise lines , to find the right one for you.

AmaWaterways

Vibe : With 144-to-196 passengers, these European ships resemble well-decorated homes-away-from home . Cruises emphasize health and wellness, balanced by fine food and wine. The new AmaMagna , a double-wide boat with a Danube debut in May, offers more amenities and space—including a novel watersports platform (for riverboats). Fellow Passengers : Energetic social Americans, often wine buffs, ranging from 40-plus to Baby Boomers and beyond. Younger cruisers often book themed wine sails. Average Eight-Day Fare : $2,699 per person. Notable Inclusions : All meals, beer, and wine with onboard lunch and dinner; shore excursions; guided hiking and biking tours; bicycles; one-hour daily happy hour with beer, wine, and spirits pre-dinner; and Wi-Fi. Rivers : Danube, Rhine, Moselle, Main, Rhone, Seine, Garonne, Dordogne, Douro; and Dutch and Belgian waterways and canals. Cabins : Residential-ish staterooms typically run between 155 to 502 square feet. Most cabins sport Ama’s signature twin balconies, featuring both a French and outside veranda. Flat-screen TVs double as computers, and baths sport multi-jet showerheads. Eat and Drink : Count on seasonal, destination-driven menus with healthful bents, fine regional wines—even recipes on pillows at turndown. All cruisers enjoy one complimentary, six-course dinner with wine pairings at the haute Chef’s Table, prepared before passengers. Staying Fit : Devotees like the well-equipped gym, walking track, heated pool, and hydration station with infused detox and gemstone waters. A Wellness Host provides complimentary daily classes, like core strengthening and circuit training, as well as personal training for a fee. Shore Excursions : An Ama specialty: The line partners with Backroads, bringing biking, walking, and hiking tours to more than 120 sails this year and in 2020.

Crystal River Cruises

Vibe : Expect plush, all-suite accommodations serviced by attentive butlers, stellar cuisine, and abundant perks. Riverboats beautifully duplicate Crystal Ocean’s modern luxury style . Fellow Passengers : Consider the mostly American over-50 crowd friendly, well-heeled, travel-savvy, and stylish. Average Eight-Day Fare : $6,333 per person. Notable Inclusions: : All meals, alcohol, and shore excursions (other than über-exclusive); electric bikes (e-bikes); 24-hour room service; self-service laundry (rare to riverboats); Wi-Fi; gratuities onboard and ashore; airport transfers. Rivers : Rhine, Main, Danube, and Moselle. (Note: Crystal riverboats don’t sail in France.) Cabins : Even the smallest suites (188 square feet on the quadruplets; 219 square feet on Mozart), feel swanky. Revel in king—not the typical riverboat queen—beds. Most feature walk-in closets and dual-vanity bathrooms. Modern tech accents include a bedside iPad with room controls. ETRO Italian toiletries, especially the body lotion, are swipe-worthy. Eat and Drink : Think Michelin star-style cuisine, particularly at on-site restaurant Waterside. The Bistro showcases morning specialty coffees and house-baked pastries, midday charcuterie, and later, wine and tapas. A Vintage Room extravaganza (a rare extra cost), paired with legendary wines, is extraordinary. Staying Fit : At the well-outfitted fitness center, personal training’s available. Take comp morning classes like yoga, plunge into the heated indoor pool. Off ship, go kayaking and canoeing, ride an e-bike. Later, unwind in the full-service spa. Shore Excursions : Outings are designed to avoid tourist hordes. Tour groups are limited to an unusually intimate 15 guests, and Crystal’s plush customized coaches deliver leg room, power outlets at every seat, and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Emerald Waterways

Vibe : Emerald’s 112-to-182 passenger European riverboats resemble attractive mid-priced modern hotels, awash in glass, chrome, and contemporary art, with buzzy lounges. Most boats have spas and salons. The pool converts to a movie theater on all ships except Emerald Radiance . Fellow Passengers : A fun-loving, energetic group, mostly 45 years old and up, although the line increasingly skews younger. Cruisers are from the U.K., Australia, and North America, and like independent exploration, such as bicycling ashore. Average Eight-Day Fare : $2,600 per person. Notable Inclusions : All meals, beer, and wine with onboard lunch and dinner; most excursions; wifi; gratuities onboard and ashore; and airport transfers. Rivers : Danube, Maine, Rhine, Moselle, Douro, Rhône, Saône. Cabins : Solo cabins—great for friends traveling together—run 117 square feet. Most guests book 180-square-foot Balcony Suites. The fanciest, at 315 square feet, include an iPad, Nespresso machine, and some laundry service. Eat and Drink : Reflections Restaurant provides daytime buffets, and four-course contemporary European evening dining with regional wines. Passengers keep the poolside bar lively. Weather permitting, Emerald hosts a popular once-a-week sundeck lunch barbecue. Staying Fit : The large indoor heated pool has a retractable roof, top deck walking/running track, and wellness center with a small gym. Shore Excursions : Many diversified options, including the popular EmeraldACTIVE, featuring guided bike tours and vigorous hikes.

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Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours

Vibe : Scenic —Emerald Waterways’ older, pricier sibling—also leans modern chic, with marble, glass, wood, and steel. Ships host between 44 and 163 guests, who enjoy butlers (service level depends on cabin category), and venues like a gym, salon, and spa. Fellow Passengers : Social, sophisticated passengers, usually 55-plus, who relish food and wine and independent exploration. A whopping 45 percent are fun-loving Aussies, with the rest divided between the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada. Passengers mix well and many make new international friends. Average Eight-Day Fare : $4,500 per person. Notable Inclusions : All meals and most alcohol; 24-hour room service; gratuities onboard and ashore; excursions and events; Wi-Fi; airport transfers. Rivers : Danube, Main, Rhine, Moselle, Douro, Rhône, Saône. Cabins : Accommodations are dubbed suites, yet the smallest (160 square feet) are considered a cabin by most. All provide Egyptian cotton sheets, down pillows, and L’Occitane toiletries. Butlers stock complimentary mini-fridges, filled with guests’ preferred beverages. Eat and Drink : Scenic offers singular advantages: Six dining choices—like sundeck teppanyaki—and enough dinner tables for two. Tuck into lavish five-course meals in specialty restaurants, perhaps French or Italian. Guests booked in costly suites enjoy one complimentary six-course degustation menu, sommelier-paired with wine, in the haute Table La Rive. Staying Fit : Use the outdoor heated pool, wellness center with workout equipment, running/walking track, and e-bikes. Scenic partners with Trek for 10 sailings per year, melding daily cycling trips into a river cruise itinerary. Shore Excursions : Scenic partners with National Geographic, featuring a Nat Geo photographer and lecturer, on some sails. Most memorable: Every cruise offers a Scenic Enrich event, such as a private ballet performance in a St. Petersburg palace.

Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection

Vibe : Admirers of opulent European hotels adore Uniworld’s boats, averaging 130 guests. Think bespoke furnishings, intense hues, antiques, crystal, and marble. No ships are alike; one evokes the Art Deco era, another resembles a baronial estate. Six Super Ships, the line’s crème de la crème, prove particularly posh. Fellow Passengers : Chic, discerning passengers who are mostly North American, with some Brits and Europeans, age 50 and up. Average Eight-Day Fare : $4,000 per person. Notable Inclusions : All meals and alcohol; 24-hour room service; shore excursions; wellness programs; gratuities onboard and ashore; Wi-Fi; airport transfers. Rivers : Danube, Moselle, Rhine, Main, Bordeaux, Dordogne, Garonne, Seine, Saône, Rhône, Douro, Po, Moselle. Cabins : Enthusiasts overlook the small cabins (some just 151 square feet) for luxe appointments, like handcrafted beds from legendary Savoir Beds of England, thick towels on heated bars, and Asprey and Hermés toiletries. Butlers pamper suite guests, including unpacking luggage and drawing bubble baths. Eat and Drink : Chefs excel at classic and contemporary European cuisine showcasing local ingredients. Vegetarians, vegans, and the diet-minded dine well. Bartenders craft cool destination-inspired cocktails. Adventurous guests book Uniworld’s intimate dinners in local host homes. Staying Fit : Work off indulgence in the well-equipped gym; certified wellness instructors offer TRX® Suspension Training on select sails. Exhale with a spa facial or massage. Shore Excursions : Enthusiastic guides, speaking excellent English, lead activities such as walks, hikes, kayaking, and bicycling. Particularly noteworthy: Exclusive excursions, like golfing on France’s most prestigious courses, are complimentary.

Viking River Cruises

Vibe : Virtually identical, the company's 190-passenger Longships possess a contemporary Scandinavian design, emphasizing natural wood, neutral hues, and windows. Enthusiasts praise the alikeness , preferring the same onboard experience wherever they go. With such uniformity, Viking cruises purr along like Bentleys. Fellow Passengers : A primarily American over-50 crowd, well-traveled but sometimes budget-minded, passionate about history, culture, and the arts. Average Eight-Day Fare : $3,748 per person. Notable Inclusions: : All meals, beer and wine with onboard lunch and dinner; one complimentary shore excursion per port; Wi-Fi; ground transfers with Viking Air purchase. Rivers : Rhine, Main, Danube, Seine, Rhône, Douro, Moselle, Elbe, Dordogne, Garonne, and Gironde. Cabins : Viking’s bathrooms, with glass-enclosed showers, heated floors, and anti-fog mirrors, are knockout. Standard Staterooms are small (150 square feet) but functional; comfort comes in 205-square-foot Veranda Staterooms. Splurge on a 275-square-foot Veranda Suite, or 445-square-foot Explorer Suite. Eat and Drink : Viking dishes up familiar American and modern European cuisine. The casual indoor-outdoor Aquavit Terrace delivers pleasing daytime buffets. Most passengers happily dine in The Restaurant on three-course meals at night. Staying Fit : No workout facilities, except for a small walking track (and two putting greens). Concierges can arrange visits to local spas and gyms. Shore Excursions : Widely praised for immersive local experiences, Viking standouts include intimate tea and conversation in local residents’ homes, and a fabulous outing to Downtown Abbey’s Highclere Castle.

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7 Great European River Cruises to Book Right Now

With an overwhelming number of european river cruise adventures to choose from, we’ve narrowed it down to 7 of the region’s most popular and picturesque rivers..

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The Douro River is a rising star in the river cruising world, with almost every major river cruise line introducing itineraries here in recent years.

Photo by Mikhail Gnatkovskiy/Shutterstock

Laid-back and leisurely, yet heavy on adventure and destination immersion, the river cruising industry is booming (both at home and abroad) for good reason. Sure, there’s the unpack-once-and-go appeal of the floating hotel format that’s common to all cruise vacations. But river cruising stands out from its oceangoing counterpart for its small ships (averaging capacity for around 150 guests), rates that bundle in value-add extras like guided excursions and libations with meals, and itineraries that are positively port intensive.

Europe is at the vanguard of this greater global river cruise phenomenon, where winding waterways—from the Danube to the Douro, and the Rhine to the Rhône—invite voyaging inland to the continent’s heartland, areas that are inaccessible to ocean-bound ships. Here you’ll find storybook-setting riverbanks lined with medieval castles and sloping vineyards, historic cities and agreeable villages. And on any given weeklong sailing, it’s not unusual to drift through three or more European countries en route, affording the perfect sampler itinerary for any eager explorer of Europe. These are seven of the very best European river cruises to take.

Passau, Germany, is one of the Old-World gems that line the Danube; city lovers also appreciate access to stunning European capitals like Vienna and Budapest.

Courtesy of Shutterstock

Danube River

Europe’s second-longest river at 1,770 miles (after Russia’s Volga), the storied Danube River—immortalized as “the Blue Danube” in composer Johann Strauss II’s famous waltz—rises from western Germany ’s Black Forest mountains, emptying out to the Black Sea at Romania. En route, it traverses 10 countries: Germany, Austria , Slovakia, Hungary, Croatia , Serbia, Bulgaria, Romania, Moldova, and Ukraine—with access to major European capitals (including Vienna , Budapest, Bratislava, and Belgrade) along its banks. With plenty of appealing Old-World riverfront attractions (castles, fortresses, churches, abbeys, and vineyards galore), paired with a front-row seat to some beautiful blockbuster cities (like Budapest and Vienna), it’s little wonder that it’s one of the world’s most popular river cruise regions.

Itineraries typically break down into the more popular Upper Danube runs, between Bavaria and Budapest (with featured stops in Germany, Austria, Slovakia, and Hungary), or the lesser-explored Lower Danube, which typically connects Budapest to Bucharest on a river route through Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, and Romania.

Set Sail: Sail the Danube on AmaWaterways’s May 2019-launched, 196-guest AmaMagna , which has been making waves for its design; at 72 feet across, it measures twice the width of standard European riverboats. Guests get spacious digs to spread out in (nearly half of the staterooms are balcony-trimmed suites, starting at a roomy 355 square feet), access to four restaurants and lounges, plus riverboat rarities like a water sports platform, heated pool, cinema, and a sizeable wellness studio (host to fitness classes and spa treatment rooms). Seven-night Danube itineraries run between Budapest and Vilshofen, Germany (with stops in Bratislava; Passau, Germany; and several ports in Austria—including Vienna—en route); or sign on for a festive Christmas markets sailing around the winter holidays. Rates from $2,549/person; amawaterways.com

Sail the Rhine in style aboard one of Crystal Cruises’s plush riverboats, with offerings like personal butlers, an indoor pool, and in-room iPads.

Courtesy of Crystal Cruises

Rhine River

The legendary, 765-mile-long Rhine—which flows from the Swiss Alps toward the North Sea at The Netherlands—has served as an important continental transport route for centuries, teeming with historical, cultural, and economic significance for Europe. Regional riverboat itineraries are extremely popular, bringing guests to celebrated cities like Basel, Switzerland, and Strasbourg, France, and placing an emphasis on Germany with calls in locales like Koblenz, Mannheim, Rüdesheim, and Cologne.

Here, riverbanks are loaded with diversions, including a distinct riverscape flanked by fairy-tale castles, along with a setting steeped in history and myths (such as that of the Lorelei siren, who supposedly lures sailors and fishermen to their deaths). The most popular itineraries run between Basel and Amsterdam , with several stops in France and Germany en route.

Set Sail: Upscale Crystal Cruises branched out from ocean sailing to include a river cruise arm in 2016. Since then, it’s emerged as an industry tour de force, most especially on the Rhine River, where it now operates Crystal Bach , Crystal Mahler , Crystal Debussy , and Crystal Ravel , four intimate, 106-passenger, new-build ships that have launched over the past two years. On the only all-suite, all-balcony riverboats in Europe, expect plush onboard touches like in-room iPads, personal butlers, and an indoor pool, along with loaner e-bikes and kayaks for enhanced port exploration. Itineraries range from 7 to 16 nights in duration; try the weeklong “Splendors of the Rhine” sailing, with runs between Amsterdam and Basel and stops in Strasbourg and throughout Germany (at Cologne, Koblenz, Rüdesheim, Speyer, and Breisach). Rates from $3,799/person; crystalcruises.com

UNESCO World Heritage site Kizhi Pogost with its 18th century wooden churches is a popular stop on Volga cruises.

Photo by Mikhail Markovskiy/Shutterstock

Volga River

The vast Volga is Europe’s longest river (running for some 2,200 miles from central Russia to the Caspian Sea) and sailing it—along with several adjoining waterways (including a network of lakes, like Lake Ladoga)—makes for a fascinating voyage of discovery through Russia. Itineraries run between the nation’s two great cities—St. Petersburg and Moscow—and cruising here pairs time spent exploring both culturally and historically rich metropolises on either end (multi-night calls are typically incorporated at each). Plus, journeys factor in plenty of stops in rural villages and smaller “Golden Ring” cities (including Uglich and Yaroslavl—two featured stops on this designated tourist route, which connects historic locales northeast of Moscow) that span the 400-plus miles between the two mega-cities. And while most days are spent exploring onion-domed Orthodox churches, icon-filled monasteries, and myriad other historic sights, keep in mind that you may have longer sailing stretches between more distant ports (pack some Tolstoy to fill in the gaps with on-deck reading).

Set Sail: Viking has been sailing Russia’s waterways since the company’s debut more than 20 years ago, and today it expertly executes Volga voyages via a fleet of five 196- to 204-passenger riverboats. Its popular 12-night “Waterways of the Tsars” itinerary features three-night stays in both Moscow and St. Petersburg, calls in the Golden Ring cities of Uglich and Yaroslavl, and stops in the village of Kuzino (gateway to the Kirillo-Belozersky Monastery) and at the open-air museums at Kizhi and Mandrogy. Expect unique excursions like a private tour of the art-filled vaults of the Hermitage and a hosted home visit for tea and vodka with a local Russian family in Uglich. Rates from $5,499/person; vikingrivercruises.com

Douro River

Rising from north-central Spain and making its way for over 550 miles across northern Spain and Portugal, before emptying into the Atlantic, the Douro is a rising star in the river cruising world. Nearly every major river cruise line has introduced itineraries here in recent years. Most voyages come bookended by the lively cities of Porto, Portugal, and Salamanca, Spain (the latter is typically accessed by the Spanish border village of Vega de Terrón)—or simply sail round-trip out of Porto—with calls at quieter ports and old hilltop towns along the way (like Peso de Régua, at the heart of port wine country).

Here, however, it’s less about any blockbuster sights than the pastoral landscapes, pocked by plenty of quintas (Portuguese for wineries) and verdant vineyards—many of which fall within the UNESCO-recognized Douro River Valley. It’s a natural fit for oenophiles, who will have ample opportunity to tipple the local bounty en route, including, naturally, aromatic port aplenty.

Set Sail: Tauck will launch its presence on the river in 2020 with an all-new riverboat—the 84-passenger m/s Andorinha —that was purpose-built for the Douro, with a reduced passenger capacity that affords roomier proportions compared to most competitor ships on the waterway. The ship will run a trio of Douro River itineraries, including one designed just for families and another featuring land-based extensions in Lisbon and Madrid . Or try its seven-night “Villages and Vintages” itinerary, which cruises round-trip from Porto with stops in Portugal at Régua, Pocinho, Pinhão, and Guimarães. Excursion highlights include an onshore wine-pairing dinner at a Douro Valley wine estate and a guided bike ride through vinho verde wine country. Rates from $4,190/person; tauck.com

France’s Rhône River is a haven for epicures and history buffs, with riverboats, from companies like Avalon Waterways, that bring guests through Provence (and, sometimes, Burgundy).

Courtesy of Avalon Waterways

Rhône River

This 505-mile stretch between the Swiss Alps and southern France lets out in the Mediterranean Sea (near Marseille), affording a lovely ride along the way, marked by Alpine scenery filled in with gorges and valleys. Take in the sights of France’s Provence region, too, with its wine country, groves of olives and citrus, and fragrant fields of lavender (landscapes that inspired Vincent van Gogh and other artists). It’s a downright delicious option for epicures, with itineraries that are anchored in Lyon, considered France’s gastronomical epicenter. Those with a taste for antiquity will appreciate a journey here, too, thanks to regional Roman landmarks like the Pont du Gard aqueduct or Arles amphitheater.

Most of the France-exclusive itineraries here run for a week between Lyon and Arles or Avignon. Some continue north on the Saône River, the chief tributary of the Rhône (the two merge in Lyon), and into the heart of Burgundy; it’s a gateway to stops like Burgundy’s wine capital at Beaune.

Set Sail: In May, Avalon Waterways rolled out new “Active & Discovery” itineraries on the Rhône, on southern France runs between Arles and Lyon, featuring stops in Tournon, Viviers, and Avignon. A departure from the one-size-fits-all excursion packages offered by many of its competitors, on these sailings guests can select from nearly three dozen customizable tour offerings, like a painting class in Arles, a wine-blending workshop in Avignon, or a mountain bike ride in Beaujolais. The seven-night itineraries unfold aboard the 166-passenger Avalon Poetry II , one of the line’s signature “Suite Ships,” featuring staterooms that transform into veritable open-air balconies via their wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling windows. Rates from $3,099/person; avalonwaterways.com

Docking in Paris is undoubtedly a major draw of any Seine river cruise.

Photo by Shutterstock

Seine River

The storied Seine—revered as one of the world’s most romantic rivers, thanks to its deep ties to Paris —extends beyond the City of Lights for fascinating river voyages into northern France. The 485-mile-long waterway flows northwest from France’s Burgundy area near Dijon, through Paris, and into the Normandy region, before emptying into the English Channel (at Le Havre).

Paris is the point of embarkation (and also disembarkation) for most round-trip sailings here, affording time to enjoy a small taste of the city (where at least one overnight stay is commonplace). Typical itinerary highlights include Monet’s gardens at Giverny ; the Normandy D-Day beaches (with 75th-anniversary D-Day landing commemorations underway in 2019 ); medieval Rouen, with its Gothic cathedral; and the picturesque fishing village of Honfleur.

Set Sail: River cruising has traditionally attracted more mature travelers, although Disney stirred things up with its special brand of family-friendly magic when it launched a partnership with AmaWaterways in 2016 (via its river cruise–inclusive Adventures by Disney arm). Sail aboard the 144-guest AmaLyra on the brand’s new-for-2019, seven-night Seine River voyage to Normandy, sailing round-trip from Paris and including a two-night, land-based extension in the city. (Note that departures in 2020 are cruise only.) Calls include Vernon/Giverny, Le Havre, Rouen, Les Andelys, and Conflans, where family-focused excursions include active tours like hiking the cliffs of Étretat or immersive local experiences, such as a Monet-inspired painting workshop in Giverny or a Normandy apple orchard visit (complete with a calvados tasting for the grown-ups). Rates from $5,169/person (discounted kids’ rates from $4,999/person); adventuresbydisney.com

River cruises in the Bordeaux region often include visits to vineyards and chateaus.

Photo by thierry dehove/Shutterstock

Bordeaux waterways

Another river cruise alternative within France is set within the Bordeaux region in the southwest of the country, where sailings are offered on the Dordogne and Garonne rivers and Gironde estuary (which leads toward the Atlantic Ocean). An increasing number of river cruise options here are anchored out of the UNESCO-protected city of Bordeaux, where ships overnight so that guests can discover its historic structures, outstanding dining, and lively riverfront. From there, itineraries emphasize the surrounding rural areas and most especially, the fine wines that are synonymous with the region. Common ports of call include Blaye, Cadillac, Libourne, and Pauillac, and itineraries come jam packed with visits to vineyards and wine châteaus in celebrated regional wine destinations like Médoc, Sauternes, and Saint-Émilion.

Set Sail: Upscale Uniworld launched the line’s 124-passenger, French-themed S.S. Bon Voyage (fresh from a $14 million renovation) in April, which runs seven-night “Brilliant Bordeaux” itineraries on the Garonne, Dordogne, and Gironde waterways. Sailing round-trip from the city of Bordeaux, the itinerary calls on Blaye, Bourg sur Gironde, Cussac-Fort-Médoc, Pauillac, Cadillac, and Libourne en route. Diverse excursion highlights include a private wine tasting at the Château Latour (on the Médoc peninsula), a yoga session at the 17th-century Blaye citadel, and a sunrise hike at Dune du Pyla, Europe’s tallest sand dune. Back on board the ship, unwind at the deck-top infinity pool or while enjoying a food-and-wine pairing dinner at the intimate La Cave des Vins venue. Rates from $2,499/person; uniworld.com

>> Next: Why Your Next Trip to Europe Should Be on the Canals

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European River Cruising

The magic of our award-winning European river cruises goes far beyond the riverboat you're aboard or the landmarks you'll visit. It's in the intimate ambiance and personalized service... the places you'll discover off the beaten path... and in the uncommon access to local culture and exclusive destination driven experiences you can't get on your own, as you experience a true slice of European life and return home transformed.

• Danube River
• Douro River
• Rhine River
• Rhône River
• Seine River
• Christmas Markets

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Welcome to European River Cruising

Whether you're experiencing the Rhine or the Danube, the Douro, the Rhône, Seine, Maas or Moselle... the magic of our award-winning European river cruises goes far beyond the riverboat you're aboard or the landmarks you'll visit. It's in the intimate ambiance and personalized service... the places you'll discover off the beaten path... and in the uncommon access to local culture and exclusive destination driven experiences you can't get on your own, as you experience a true slice of European life and return home transformed.

What to expect on europe's rivers.

Although there's no better way to explore Europe's great cities, castle-dotted countryside and vineyards by riverboat, situations may arise that are beyond our control. In the event we need to modify your journey for any reason, you can trust that we will make every effort to communicate with you and to preserve your experience.

Portugal's golden Douro River, home to our newest cruises

The river of kings – the danube, wine country – france's rhône valley, old world europe – rhine river cruises, paris to normandy – the river seine.

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Featured River, Small Ship and Land Journeys

Inspired by the destination.

For 90+ years, the Tauck family has had a passion for sailing — aboard small ships and yachts at sea, riverboats along great inland waterways, and at home on the rivers and lakes of Connecticut and New York. When we began blending our land experience with our strong passion for cruising in our first European river cruise back in 1992, we knew that no "ordinary" river cruise experience would do for our guests. We wanted them to travel Europe's rivers in the same beyond-the-ordinary Tauck style they experienced on our land trips. With that in mind, we searched to find a company to partner with that would share our values and our commitment to "do the right thing" by our guests... and found it in another family-owned company, Scylla. Together, we crafted a river cruise experience that was ahead of its time and inspired by the destinations we explore.

Guest Favorites in River Cruising

Along the Danube... the Rhine... the Rhône... the Seine... or the Douro... our European river cruises are all about the unique cultural access you'll enjoy wherever we visit... the strong connections you'll make with the people you'll meet... and the traditions and genuine little moments they'll share with you  along the way...

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Tauck shares the basic facts you need about Europe's rivers – plus the history, culture and more.

What to Expect On Europe's Rivers

Unforeseen circumstances may occur on the rivers of Europe from time-to-time, including high and low water levels. Tauck is always prepared to deal with these eventualities in order to preserve your Tauck experience.

Why Take A Tauck River Cruise

Tauck River Cruising means traveling in good company, exclusive access to cultural experiences, distinctively inclusive pricing and more!

Choosing The Best European River Cruise For You

Tauck's European river cruise guide will help you find the right Danube, Rhone, Rhine, Seine or Douro river cruise for you.

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Top 5 European river cruises

• The Rhine Valley

Whether its hilltop towns in Provence or Gothic castles scattered along the Rhine, a European river cruise allows you to visit a wide range of storied cities and out-of-the-way villages in a relaxed fashion. No matter where you go, you can enjoy gourmet dining, indulgent spa treatments, and your choice of in-depth tours with experts.

Here, we’ve created a primer to river cruising in Europe, introducing the distinctive, wide-bottomed ships and their on-shore experiences. We’ve picked out five of our top routes, which take in everything from tulip fields beside Dutch waterways to the ancient vineyards along Portugal’s Douro River.

About the routes

We’ve spotlighted five of Europe’s greatest rivers for cruising. Each one works well as a standalone trip, but we think you’ll get even more from your experience if you combine them with an in-depth visit to the city or cities at the start or end of the cruise — you can use the itineraries we’ve suggested below as inspiration. Of course, your specialist will craft your trip just for you, choosing hotels and experiences that match your particular tastes.

Waterways in Belgium & the Netherlands

• Duration: 7 nights
• Start & end point: Amsterdam
• Countries: The Netherlands and Belgium

Each spring, the Netherlands  erupts in a riotous celebration of tulips and other spring flowers — from farm fields to botanical gardens, the country boasts millions of bulbs blooming in candy-bright shades of lipstick red, sunshine yellow, and vivid orange. If you’re planning your cruise between late March and early May, you’ll get to soak up the splendor of the blooms.

This cruise gives you a chance to explore the country’s well-known love of tulips, with (optional) visits to a family-run tulip farm and the Floralia flower show in Antwerp . The grand finale is a stop at the annual festivities in the prestigious Keukenhof gardens, where 7 million bulbs — including 800 varieties of tulips, not to mention dozens of daffodils, hyacinths, and crocuses — draw visitors from around the globe every year.

The cruise begins and ends amid the scenic, shady canals of Amsterdam . Along the way, you’ll get a chance to admire Belgium’s  wealth of medieval architecture in Bruges , Middelburg, and Ghent , and admire the historic windmills at the village of Kinderdijk. In addition to the floral-themed stops, you can discover the timeless appeal of Delft pottery or indulge in a masterclass from a Belgian chocolatier.

Learn more: You can incorporate this cruise on any trip to Europe, like this ten-day itinerary suggestion   that includes time in Amsterdam.

Germany & Luxembourg: the Rhine & the Moselle

• Start & end point: Luxembourg and Nuremberg
• Countries: Germany and Luxembourg

From the vineyard-lined shores of the Moselle to the castle-dotted bends of the Rhine, this cruise gives you a chance to explore the food, drink, and scenic landscapes of both Germany  and Luxembourg . Many of the experiences here allow you to acquaint yourself with the region’s cuisine and distinctive alcoholic beverages — you can sample smoked beer and traditional wurst in Bamberg, sip the renowned wines of the Rheingau region, or learn to bake a pretzel at a small local bakery. For a more active trip, you might opt for hikes through vineyards or up steep hills to explore local castles.

Along the way, you’ll visit villages like Bernkastel-Kues, Cochem, and Wertheim, which seem lifted from the pages of a storybook with their half-timbered houses painted in cheerful primary hues. You can also opt to visit the Niederwalddenkmal monument via a gondola with panoramic views of the Rhine Valley. Or, you might venture down the Romantic Road  to visit Rothenburg, Germany’s best-preserved walled town.

Learn more: This 13-day suggested trip  adds time in both Paris and Prague before and after your cruise, extending your exploration through the heart of Europe.

Germany & the Netherlands: the Rhine

• Between: Geneva and Amsterdam
• Countries: France, Germany, the Netherlands, and Switzerland

It seems like there’s a castle around every curve of the Rhine — imposing Gothic confections of crenellated ramparts and pointed towers that loom over the river. Cruises along the Rhine let you admire the apparently endless parade from the water, and give you the chance to actually slip inside a few — for example, you can opt to take a guided tour of the stately interiors of Burg Lahneck in Germany.

In addition to castles, you’ll find medieval villages dotted along the banks — places you likely wouldn’t visit any other way. For example, you can stop at the Alsatian town of Strasbourg to visit the well-preserved 16th-century old town, packed with brightly painted half-timber buildings.

In Germany, the river is also known for its vineyards — you can enjoy a simple tasting in Rüdesheim am Rhein. Alternatively, join a cycle tour through Breisach or take a gondola ride to the Niederwalddenkmal monument, followed by a sampling of Riesling wines.

Learn more: This cruise pairs well with an in-depth exploration of Amsterdam, which is included in this 12-day suggested itinerary .

France: the Rhône

• Start & end point: Lyon to Arles
• Countries: France

Gentle hills drenched in sunshine, lavender fields that hum with bees, storied vineyards, and fragrant truffles — a Provence  cruise between Lyon  and Arles  lets you fully indulge your senses. The route highlights why this region’s sumptuous character has inspired poets, painters, chefs, vintners, and even popes since the Roman era.

The on-shore tours here include a truffle hunt through the sunny countryside, following a trained truffle-sniffing dog. You could choose a vineyard tour and tasting in the Beaujolais region, known for its gamay grapes and lighthearted approach to winemaking. Or, enjoy a red-wine-and-chocolate tasting at Le Château de Tournon.

With narrow medieval streets paved in honey-gold stones, Arles inspired Vincent Van Gogh when painting his Café Terrace at Night , which has made the French city a popular destination for art lovers. You can take a walking tour with an art historian to learn more about the painter’s time here and visit a Van Gogh-themed gallery.

Arguably the climax of the cruise is a stop in Avignon , home to the Palais des Papes, or papal palace. A tour of this sprawling complex of turrets, fortifications, and battlements will give you a glimpse into the Pope’s power in 14th-century Europe.

Learn more: Get inspired with our 13-day suggested trip , which includes this cruise as well as time in Paris, Versailles, and Cannes.

Portugal & Spain: the Douro

• Start & end point: Porto & Vega de Terrón
• Countries: Portugal and Spain

A cruise down the Douro  in Portugal and Spain is a chance to explore one of the world’s oldest designated wine regions, known for both its vistas and its vineyards. The steep sides of the valley are lined with hand-carved terraces where vintners have been growing grapes for more than a millennium — we think the best way to enjoy the views of the gently undulating terraces is from the river.

The route includes several chances to visit local quintas, a Portuguese word for wine estates. They dot the riverside and you’ll be able to stop at several to try traditional cuisine as well as sample the fortified port wine that the region is known for. You can also stop for another tasting in the city that gave the wine its name — Porto .

Looking beyond food and wine, you can also choose to take guided tours of small local villages as well as the city of Salamanca , a Spanish UNESCO World Heritage Site that’s home to one of the oldest universities in Europe. Other options include guided hikes and cycling tours, and a chance to explore the blue-and-white-tiled interior of the Palácio Anadia, a Baroque palace from the 18th century.

Learn more: A Douro cruise is included in this 13-day suggested itinerary , which also gives you time to explore Lisbon and Madrid.

About the ships

These are not the ocean-going liners that many people think of when they hear ‘cruise ship’. They’re much smaller, usually only holding about 150 passengers, creating a more intimate trip. The keels are flat and wide — almost barge-like — and the low, close-to-the-water profile means you’ll have a smooth voyage.

We’ve chosen ships with spacious staterooms that have floor-to-ceiling windows, as well as (usually) both a French balcony and an outdoor balcony. The sophisticated decor, attentive service, and luxe amenities are a match for most elegant hotels in Europe, and usually of a much higher standard than you’d find if you wanted to spend the night in many of the villages en route.

Dining here is a gourmet affair, with both local and international menus, and a generous wine cellar. You can sit down to breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as enjoy wine and beer with meals and tapas between eating times — all included as part of your package.

Also included is a wide menu of activities available at each stop. You can go for guided hikes, while a fleet of bicycles onboard means you can explore like the locals do, with or without a guide. Gourmets can opt for a wine tasting, market tour, cooking class, or beer-and-bratwurst feast. And, of course, there are guided walking tours.

In the evenings, as you travel effortlessly between villages, castles, and vineyards, you can take advantage of your ship’s spa for treatments, attend the nightly entertainment, or simply enjoy a cocktail on the sun deck as you admire the countryside scrolling past you.

River cruise ideas in Europe

These itineraries are simply suggestions for how you could enjoy river cruise experiences in Europe. They’re just for inspiration, because your trip will be created around your particular tastes.

Cruising the Rhine: vineyards & villages

12 days from $11,495pp

Germany river cruise, Paris & Prague

13 days from $12,895pp

Rhône river cruise: Roman ruins & truffles

13 days from $17,595pp

Douro river cruise: port tasting & palaces

13 days from $11,295pp

Cruising the Dutch & Belgian waterways

10 days from $8,295pp

Europe river cruises in pictures

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River Cruises in Europe

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Uniworld, the world’s best and most awarded luxury river cruise line, cruises spectacular rivers throughout Europe, Russia, Egypt, Asia, and Peru. Every Uniworld cruise is meticulously crafted to be an experience you won’t find anywhere else. Plus, the included and optional excursions completely immerse you in the authentic culture, sights, and cuisine of the amazing places you’ll visit.

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Sailing by river means enjoying all the conveniences of a traditional cruise, plus the benefits of traveling inland. You’ll visit bustling cities and hidden gem villages, stopping in multiple destinations on every trip, and only unpack once! Even on board, you’ll be absorbed in the sights, with ever-changing views outside your window. 

A Room With a View

Forget about indoor cabins. When river cruising, every room has a view. Relax and enjoy the ever-changing scenery as you sail to your next destination.

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Never restricted to coastal towns and ocean-liner ports, river cruise ships can take you to the heart of your destinations and dock in the center of town, so you can step right off the ship and start exploring.

Europe is Built on Rivers

There is absolutely no better way to immerse yourself in Europe than from the banks of one of her many distinctive rivers. In the Old World, commerce and life were centered on Europe’s great rivers. They were the arteries of the entire country, and, as a result, many of the quaint, memorable European villages you’re likely daydreaming about right now were built on the shores of these same rivers.

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Every Uniworld cruise is meticulously crafted to be an experience you won’t find anywhere else, filled with moments that are each more breathtaking than the last. We’ve gone the extra mile to ensure our included and optional excursions immerse you in the authentic culture, sights, and cuisine of the places you’ll visit.

Smaller Ships, Fewer Guests

While ocean liners are made to be massive, think 5,000+ guests on a 14-story vessel, river cruises are simply not capable of that scale. They must be able to fit beneath bridges that may be incredibly old and close to the water. As a result, river cruise ships are much smaller and carry far fewer passengers. Uniworld ships have an average capacity of just 120 passengers, which means you get to enjoy an intimate onboard atmosphere and unmatched service with a crew-to-passenger ratio of 1 to 2.3.

Uniworld’s staterooms are unlike anything you’ve experienced cruising. Whichever stateroom category you choose, you’ll enjoy large windows above water, as well as balconies in many rooms. Your room includes luxury amenities and plenty of space to unpack all your things and store your suitcase out of sight.

You’ll always feel like you’re in a boutique hotel, not a massive vessel—and a small ship takes you that much closer to everything! Each Uniworld ship is inspired by the very rivers upon which they cruise. With distinctive themes, color palettes, custom-made fabrics, personally selected original artwork, sumptuous furnishings, and antiques, each element, down to the smallest detail, has been thoughtfully considered and flawlessly rendered.

Crew-to-Passenger Ratio of 1 to 2.3

With Uniworld, you’ll enjoy state-of-the-art ships carrying a smaller number of passengers per journey. Uniworld ships have an average capacity of just 120 passengers, which means you enjoy an intimate onboard atmosphere and unmatched service.

Travel from one exciting destination to the next aboard a stylish floating hotel with inviting lounges, cozy libraries, panoramic restaurants, sumptuous cuisine, exquisite antiques, original art, and luxurious river-view staterooms and suites.

Castles along the Rhine

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Douro River Valley

MIlan, Venice & the Jewels of Veneto

Portugal, Spain & the Douro River Valley

Classic Christmas Markets

Remarkable Rhine & Historic Holland

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By nature, sailing on the rivers means constant proximity to land and shoreside resources—and, by extension, the ability to stop the ship and disembark at any time, if necessary.

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We Follow the Experts

As members of the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) and Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA), we have been actively involved in helping to define global protocols and are kept up to date with all government advisories and travel alerts daily. Our protocols will be adapted and adjusted promptly as needed as local governments and the World Health Organization (WHO) define and implement what is required in each country.

Onboard Protocols

We've added new measures to elevate our hygiene standards for every facet of the onboard experience—from the introduction of innovative, non-toxic cleaning solutions to hand sanitizer stations throughout the ship.

No Lines or Crowds

Unlike on an ocean cruise, you won’t have to deal with wait times for embarking or disembarking. And on tours, our guides can bring you right past the long tourist lines at popular museums and attractions.

The Danube is undeniably Europe's most popular cruising river. It flows throughout Austria, Germany, Hungary, and many more, and we have vacations that include can’t-miss cities such as Budapest, Munich, Prague, and Vienna. Uniworld Castles Along the Rhine river cruise tops the list for five-star guest reviews.

The late spring or early fall is the best time for a European river cruise. The cruising season lasts from March through December, but you’ll want to plan for either April-May or September-October if you're looking for fairer weather. If you want to see the Christmas markets of Europe, a river cruise is a wonderful choice. You can even celebrate the holidays on a Christmas and New Year's cruise. 

The answer: No. U.S. citizens traveling to and planning a European river cruise do not need to worry about obtaining visas.

Uniworld River Cruises start at around $1,999 for an 8-day cruise. It’s budget-friendly, considering the cruises are all-inclusive, with five-star cuisine, premium wines and spirits, and incredibly VIP excursions. We think river cruises are one of the best ways to travel, even on a budget. The European fleet features luxurious ships with an average capacity of 120 guests, the highest staff-to-guest ratio in the river cruise industry, impeccable hospitality, and numerous other all-inclusive benefits.

You can check out our frequently asked questions about Uniworld River Cruises in Europe or reach out to your GET Travel Specialist.

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Ukraine-Russia war latest: Child seriously hurt as number of dead rises after airstrike in Odesa seaside park

The Ukrainian authorities say the number of victims from a Russian airstrike in Odesa has risen, with many more injured. Listen to a Daily podcast on whether the UK should send troops to Ukraine as you scroll.

Tuesday 30 April 2024 11:19, UK

• Number of victims from Odesa attack rises to five, with child badly hurt
• Watch: Massive building in flames after attack
• Explained : Why is Chasiv Yar the next target for Russia?
• Your questions answered: Will Ukraine launch another spring offensive?
• Listen to the Sky News Daily above and  tap here  to follow wherever you get your podcasts

Live events elsewhere mean we are leaving our coverage of the Ukraine war there for the day. 

The main development this morning was the rise in the number of people killed in a Russian strike on Odesa yesterday to five.

Read more details in our posts below - and we'll be back with rolling updates and analysis of the war soon.

At least two people have been killed in another Russian strike, this time targeting the northeastern city of Kharkiv, local officials say.

Six more have been wounded in the attack, which Governor Oleh Synehubov says was carried out using guided bombs, according to preliminary information.

The attack damaged a residential building in one of the city districts, Kharkiv Mayor Ihor Terekhov said. 

Emergency services are on the scene, local officials say.

Yesterday, a woman was reportedly injured after a "series of explosions" hit the city, according to the mayor.

Russia denies targeting civilians in the war that is now in its third year.

As we reported yesterday, a Russian missile attack targeted an educational institution in a popular seafront park in the Black Sea port of Odesa.

The number of victims from that airstrike has risen, with five people now reported to have died. 

Local officials had initially said four were killed.

Regional governor Oleh Kiper said in addition to those killed in the attack, one man died after suffering a stroke attributed to the strike.

Another 32 are said to be injured, eight of whom seriously - including a four-year-old child.

A pregnant woman and another child are also among the injured.

"Monsters, beasts, savages, scum, I don't know what else to say," Odesa Mayor Hennadii Trukhanov said.

"People are going for a walk by the sea and they are shooting and killing."

Video footage, which could not be immediately verified, showed people receiving treatment on the street alongside pools of blood. 

One photo showed officials examining part of a missile.

Ukrainian navy spokesperson Dmytro Pletenchuk said the strike was conducted by an Iskander-M ballistic missile with a cluster warhead.

Odesa has been a frequent target of Russian missile and drone attacks, particular port infrastructure.

Hello and welcome back to our coverage of the war in Ukraine. 

Yesterday a Russian attack on the port city of Odesa killed at least four people, while dramatic footage showed a massive education facility ablaze in the aftermath. 

Here are the other key events to get you up to speed on from the past 24 hours:

• More than 30 Ukrainian conscripts have died while trying to cross the border illegally to avoid mobilisation, a Ukrainian official said;
• The Duchess of Edinburgh met with Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Ukraine, in what marks the first visit to the country by a member of the Royal Family since the war begin;
• Debris recovered from a missile that landed in the Ukrainian region of Kharkiv on 2 January was North Korean, according to the United Nations;
• NATO secretary-general Jens Stoltenberg visited Kyiv for a meeting with Volodymyr Zelenskyy;
• In a joint news conference, Mr Stoltenberg said NATO allies had "not delivered" on their military aid pledges to Ukraine in recent months, saying that "serious delays" had led to negative consequences on the battlefield;
• Mr Zelenskyy also called for the delivery of Western weapons to Kyiv's troops to be sped up;
• Russia's defence ministry claimed its forces have taken control of the village of Semenivka in the eastern Donetsk region;
• European Council president Charles Michel said the Russian invasion of Ukraine has given "new impetus" to calls for the EU to be enlarged beyond the 27 members;
• Germany's public prosecutor's office said it was assessing whether a political motive was behind the killing of two Ukrainian soldiers in Murnau.

As we reported a short time ago, the Duchess of Edinburgh has met with Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Ukraine, in what marks the first visit to the country by a member of the Royal Family since the war begin.

Sophie met the Ukrainian president and first lady Olena Zelenska and delivered a message to them on behalf of the King, Buckingham Palace said.

You can watch footage from her trip here...

Throughout the day, we've been reporting on a Russian attack on the city of Odesa in Ukraine, which has killed at least four people. 

These images show a burning educational institution building, which was struck. 

Airline Finnair has said it is pausing flights to Tartu in eastern Estonia for the next month, due to GPS disturbances in the area.

"Finnair will suspend its daily flights to Tartu, Estonia, from 29 April to 31 May, so that an alternative approach solution that does not require a GPS signal can be put in place at Tartu Airport," the Finnish airline said in a statement.

Finnair last week had to divert two flights back to Helsinki after GPS interference prevented the approach to Tartu airport, although a spokesperson said the company did not now where the interference came from.

However, Tallinn seems certain as where the issues are originating. 

"It is a fact that Russia affects GPS devices in our region’s airspace," Estonia's foreign minister said via a spokesperson.

Margus Tsahkna added that Estonia will raise the issue of GPS interference with its neighbours, and intends to discuss it with the EU and NATO. 

GPS jamming and spoofing have grown worse in eastern Europe, the Black Sea and the Middle East, all areas close to conflict zones, according to industry group OpsGroup. 

More than 30 Ukrainian conscripts have died while trying to cross the border illegally to avoid mobilisation, a Ukrainian official has said.

Andriy Demchenko, spokesman for the State Border Guard Service,  told Ukrinform that some men are prepared to pay "large sums" of money to groups promising to smuggle them across the border safely.

"Then they are faced with the fact that the route runs along a mountain river," he said.

Many conscripts have lost their lives after realising they didn't have the strength to swim the river, Mr Demchenko added.

"In total, since the beginning of the full-scale invasion, about 30 people have died trying to cross the border illegally," he said.

Such attempts occur "every day", he said.

For context: Ukraine has been under martial law since the Russian invasion in February 2022.

It lets draft officers call up men of a certain age to fight on the front line.

In April, Volodymyr Zelenskyy signed off a new law lowering the age of draft-eligible men from 27 to 25, in a bid to boost troop numbers in his depleted ranks.

The Duchess of Edinburgh has met with Volodymyr Zelenskyy in Ukraine, in what marks the first visit to the country by a member of the Royal Family since the war begin.

Her visit is aimed at demonstrating "solidarity with the women, men and children impacted by the war and in a continuation of her work to champion survivors of conflict-related sexual violence", the palace said.

Three women and a man have died after a Russian attack on Odesa.

A further 28 people have been injured, including two children aged five and 16. A pregnant woman has also been hurt.

This video shows the aftermath of the attack. 

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