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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.

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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...

Budapest to amsterdam by riverboat, the romantic rhine: basel to amsterdam, rendezvous on the seine, blue danube: family riverboat adventure, tauck's river cruise guide, european river facts.

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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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.

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.

For more cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

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.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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• A beginner's guide to picking a cruise line
• The 8 worst cabin locations on any cruise ship
• A quick guide to the most popular cruise lines
• 21 tips and tricks that will make your cruise go smoothly
• 15 ways cruisers waste money
• 12 best cruises for people who never want to grow up
• The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

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With longer port calls and our destination-focused approach, Viking maximizes your discoveries in Europe. From the fairytale castles of the Middle Rhine to the natural beauty of Norwegian fjords, you will gain deep insight into the continent’s cultural and historic riches.

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Highlights of europe river cruises.

Europe’s inland waterways and stunning seaside coasts are brimming with old-world treasures. Discover them in celebrated capitals such as Vienna and Oslo, and in delightfully surprising ports, like Bratislava, Slovakia and Skagen, Denmark. From river to ocean, you can find:

• Cologne’s towering Gothic cathedral
• A traditional Sami ceremony north of the Arctic Circle
• Ancient trade routes of the Vikings
• Budapest’s regal Parliament building and Chain Bridge
• Sheep farming and wool production in a Faroese village
• Vintners tending their vines in quintas along the Douro
• The Hanseatic past of historic Bergen
• Kinderdijk’s windmills, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
• Picturesque Icelandic waterfalls and fjords
• Award-winning beers at Britain’s oldest brewhouse

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Best River Europe Cruises

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7 Night Cruise to Europe

• You appreciate local cuisine and regional wines when you cruise
• You prefer sailing with adults only; Viking doesn't permit kids onboard
• You enjoy Scandinavian design that is simple yet beautiful
• You want to be physically active or visit a spa onboard
• You plan to bring your young children on your river cruise
• You want a friendly river cruise experience with some inclusions
• You like high-quality interior design and well-appointed rooms
• You are looking for an adult-centric vacation in Europe
• You need amenities like onboard bicycles or fitness centers
• You are looking for a fully inclusive river cruise experience
• You like a river cruise with wall-to-wall cabin balcony windows
• You enjoy having plenty of personal space and dislike crowds
• You value soothing, contemporary decor with vibrant colors
• You're looking for an all-inclusive luxury river cruise
• You don't care about having a cabin with an open-air balcony
• You want active, nonstop entertainment during the evenings

5 Night Cruise to Europe

• You are looking for a high-quality river cruise on a newer ship
• You value good service, quality cuisine and fine furnishings
• You want to indulge in authentic experiences onboard and ashore
• You want the most lavish amenities, decor and inclusions
• You are looking for an all-inclusive river cruise experience
• You are inspired by simple, elegant Scandinavian decor
• You enjoy the company of other like-minded adults
• You don't want to pay extra for shore excursions
• You would like to bring your children on your river cruise
• You require cabins specifically designed for solo travelers
• You like a river cruise with regional cuisine and wines
• You appreciate good service and included amenities
• You like busy days ashore and quiet evenings onboard ship
• You want to river cruise with kids; Viking discourages this
• You need amenities like included bicycles and spa services
• You want an onboard experience that is the last word in luxury
• You want a river cruise with spacious cabins and suites
• You enjoy socializing with like-minded, well-traveled adults
• You appreciate good quality, locally inspired cuisine and wine
• You want amenities like onboard bicycles or spa services
• You want to bring kids; Viking caters exclusively to adults
• You are looking for an all-around good river cruise in Europe
• You enjoy socializing with like-minded travelers over drinks
• You don't mind paying for gratuities or premium spirits
• You're looking for amenities like butler service and spas
• You require solo occupancy cabins or connecting rooms
• You want a kid-friendly river cruise; Viking caters to adults

3 Night Cruise to Europe

• You like some inclusions but don't mind paying for a few add-ons
• You like exploring ports on foot or by bicycle
• You want your bed to face the windows as your sailing
• You want a balcony on which you can sit, relax and enjoy
• You want the most lavish, high-end suites around
• You want a quality river cruise with plenty of thoughtful touches
• You value included amenities and not being nickel-and-dimed
• You enjoy crisp Scandinavian decor and friendly service
• You are on a budget or are looking for a last-minute cruise
• You need a kid-friendly river cruise; Viking caters to adults

14 Night Cruise to Europe

• You want a quality river cruise with good service and cuisine
• You appreciate bright, spacious public rooms and cabins
• You enjoy socializing with other adults over meals and drinks
• You need connecting cabins or are traveling with kids
• You want the last word in luxury with exacting, formal service
• You want a river cruise on a beautiful ship with lots of light
• You want quality service, cuisine and shore excursion options
• You're looking to experience Europe with like-minded adults
• You want a river cruise that's suitable for children and teens
• You need amenities like pools, spas and indoor theatres

4 Night Cruise to Europe

11 night cruise to europe.

• You want to see what the Viking River Cruise experience is about
• You value friendly service and good, locally inspired cuisine
• You want a good degree of organization and tour options
• You are traveling as a multi-generational family with children
• You want features like onboard bicycles, spa services or pools
• You want a river cruise with warm Scandinavian style and decor
• You appreciate having great views from every room onboard
• You want locally inspired cuisine, enrichment and excursions
• You plan on bringing the kids; Viking is strictly adults-only
• You need solo occupancy cabins or connecting cabins
• You want luxuries like butler service, indoor pools and spas
• You are looking for a contemporary, well-run river cruise
• You appreciate bright, soothing cabins and public areas
• You want an adult-oriented experience with some inclusions
• You are looking for lavish, all-inclusive suites with butlers
• You want a ship that provides amenities like onboard bicycles
• You are traveling with children; Viking Var is for adults

Explore Europe

Europe  River Cruises

Explore the enchanting rivers of Europe and discover the unique history and culture of its extraordinary regions.

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Travel through Europe's  picturesque rivers

Be inspired by the history, culture, cuisine, and magnificent sights of Europe, from the charming castles and fairy-tale villages on the Rhine, Main, and Danube, and the iconic sites of France, to the renowned Portuguese wine regions along the Douro River. Explore these incredible destinations while enjoying truly all-inclusive ultra-luxury in a class of its own.

Choose your European Destination

A world of enriching experiences awaits you as you cruise past beautiful towns full of culture and history.

Enjoy a truly all-inclusive river cruise in a class of its own.  

Why   travel on a scenic europe river cruise.

Our luxury, purpose-built Scenic Space-Ships get you closer to shore to create a real sense of immersion in the heart of European life and culture. Let time stand still as you discover the limitless wonders of Europe and enjoy a premium all-inclusive experience.

Innovative Scenic Space-Ships

Our innovative ships feature an abundance of luxurious outdoor, dining, and wellness areas, along with spacious suites. Low guest numbers of only up to 163 guests provide an intimate experience. These sleek ships are also able to dock in the heart of towns, so you can enjoy more time to explore.

Luxurious Suites

Each suite offers you the luxury of personal space. Our generously-sized suites are elegantly appointed with premium amenities including a queen-size Scenic Slumber Bed, a pillow menu, and luxurious bath products. The Balcony, Junior, and Royal Suites* feature your very own window to the world with our signature Scenic Sun Lounges – some of the largest balconies offered on European waterways.

Up to Five Dining Options

Whether you prefer a fine dining experience with a six-course meal, a relaxed café setting or dining in the privacy of your suite, you’ll find delectable options to suit your tastes and mood. Premium international beverages^ – wine, beer, cocktails, spirits – are included and available all day, every day. It’s more than outstanding food and wine – it’s the fresh flavors of each region prepared by our innovative chefs.

Scenic Freechoice

Personalize your river cruise and pursue your own interests as you set off on curated excursions throughout Europe. Scenic’s extensive and diverse list of Freechoice excursions offer an Active, Moderate, or Relaxed pace so you can choose activities best suited to you based on your preferences. Whether it’s a guided hike up beautiful Buda Hill or delectable wine tastings in the French town of Châteauneuf du Pape, the choice is yours.

Scenic Enrich

Our Scenic Enrich experiences are exclusive to Scenic guests and place you at the heart of the world’s most refined art, music, and architecture. You’ll go behind the scenes to enjoy moments inaccessible to the ordinary traveler, from a classical concert at the opulent Palais Liechtenstein in Vienna to after hours access at Bassins de Lumières, a former submarine base turned immersive digital art installation. These carefully curated experiences are destined to be the highlights of your journey.

Salt Therapy Lounge

Scenic is the first and only river cruise company to feature a therapeutic Salt Therapy Lounge* on board its Scenic Space-Ships cruising Europe’s waterways. Mimicking the environment of a salt cave, the Salt Therapy Lounge can assist with healing, improving respiration, and boosting the immune system.

Featured Itineraries

Gems of the Danube

Take a journey rich in culture and beauty

Danube in Depth

A memorable discovery of the Danube

Jewels of Europe

Europe’s most spectacular river discovery

Normandy & Gems of the Seine

Take a journey down the river of dreams

Beautiful Bordeaux

Savour the beauty and romance

Delightful Douro

The soul of Portugal

• Europe River Cruises
• Your Guide to River Cruising

Your guide to Europe river cruising

What to expect  on your river cruise

Learn about the benefits of river cruising with our comprehensive guide to your first time on a river cruise and what you can expect when you travel with Scenic.

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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

Cruise to Europe with Avalon Waterways

Just as the great cities of the world arose along the great rivers of Europe, so did the gentle hills and humble villages that you’ll encounter on an Avalon European river cruise. From the rich heritage of Budapest to the rare haunts of Bucharest, and from the castles of Germany to the classics of Vienna, the treasures of the Danube River beckon to us. And while we may follow the Danube , Rhine , Seine , Saone , Moselle , and Main Rivers , you need only follow your passions to experience your cruise your way. From active pursuits on a bike or a hike in Burgundy to a new discovery in a painting class in Amsterdam; from the beloved classic sights in Paris to Portugal's vibrant vineyards — how you experience an Avalon European river cruise is up to you. Your captain, cruise director, and caring crew deliver relaxed luxury from start to finish.

Happiness Flows in Every Direction

From windmills and wine to castles and coastlines, all are in your view on an Avalon river cruise in Europe. Tip your beret to bountiful France. Mosey on the Moselle or make waves on the waterways of Holland. Find serenity on the Seine or roam the Rhine Valley. Waltz through history on the Danube or revel on the Rhône. Rock the boat with countless ways to discover your choice of European river cruises where happiness flows!

Danube River Cruises

As Europe's second-longest river and a vital means of transportation for 2,000 years, the Danube is the only major European river to flow from the west to the east. A stunning course in any direction!

Why Cruise the Danube River?

Douro River Cruises

Meaning “River of Gold,” the Douro truly is a treasure that reveals the gems of Portugal’s wine region. Weaving a course through some of Europe’s most captivating vistas and charming villages.

Why Cruise the Douro River?

Garonne River Cruises

Springing from the Spanish Pyrenees to the Gironde estuary at Bordeaux, the Garonne River flows through some of France’s most idyllic landscapes rich in history, artistry, cuisine, and wine, of course.

Why Cruise the Garonne River?

Rhine River Cruises

Flowing from the Swiss Alps to Holland's North Sea, the Rhine is perhaps most famous for its legendary Lorelei rock and the imposing medieval castles that line its banks.

Why Cruise the Rhine River?

Main River Cruises

Quaint, quiet, & quintessentially German, the Main winds leisurely through the country's most stunning areas, passing hilltop castles & storybook medieval villages alike.

Why Cruise the Main River?

Moselle River Cruises

Flowing through France, Luxembourg, and Germany, the Moselle River is known for the excellent wines produced along its banks as well as for its picturesque medieval castles.

Why Cruise the Moselle River?

Rhône River Cruises

An important inland trade and transportation route since Greek times, the Rhône River flows south from the Swiss Alps to the Mediterranean Sea, winding through the orchards and vineyards that inspired great artists in the Rhône Valley. 

Why Cruise the Rhône River?

Saône River Cruises

The Saône River-its name derived from the Gallic river goddess, Souconna-flows from northeastern France to join the Rhône River in Lyon. The Saône passes through the picturesque wine-making landscapes of Burgundy and Beaujolais.

Seine River Cruises

The Seine rises just northwest of Dijon and flows in northwesterly through Paris before emptying into the English Channel at Le Havre. It's one of Europe's great historic rivers and since the early Middle Ages has been considered the river of Paris.

Why Cruise the Seine River?

The Nile River

Follow the lifeline of Egyptian civilization and customs of ancient temples, royal tombs, and local villages along longest river in the world. Unravel the mysteries and marvel at mammoth feats that defy explanation and drive the imagination along the mysterious and legendary Nile River.   

Why Cruise the Nile River?

The Mekong River

From its source high up in the Tibetan Plateau, the powerful Mekong River courses for over 3,000 miles through China, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam, providing a lifeline for millions of people. Discover the graceful life along the Mother of Water through Cambodia and Vietnam.

Why Cruise the Mekong River?

The Galápagos Islands

Consisting of 13 large and hundreds of small islands in the Pacific Ocean off the western coast of South America, the Galápagos Islands are home to some of the world's most fascinating animal species found nowhere else in the world. Here, perfectly adapted  giant tortoises, penguins, sea lions, marine iguanas, and birds thrive on these rugged volcanic isles that inspired Charles Darwin.

Why Cruise the Galápagos Islands?

The Mighty Amazon River

The Amazon River brims with biodiversity at its greatest in the untamed rainforest of Peru. This perfect ecosystem teems with flora and fauna in a kaleidoscope of life–with more than 800 species of bird, 7,000 flowering plants, and nearly 2,500 varieties of butterfly–not to mention a menagerie of exotic mammals and reptiles. Oh, and pink river dolphins, too.   

Why Cruise the Amazon River?

The 8 Best European River Cruises For Every Type Of Traveler

All products and services featured are independently selected by forbes vetted contributors and editors. when you make a purchase through links on this page, we may earn a commission. learn more, kerry spencer , contributor, forbes vetted.

F rom Portugal's dazzling Douro to the mighty Danube, a river cruise is a fantastic way of exploring Europe’s magical cities and sensational countryside. Sparkling new Europe-based ships seemingly debut every year, all with innovative features and itineraries that showcase art, history, food and more. The best European river cruises make it easy to enjoy the continent’s marvelous scenery to its fullest, with thoughtful amenities, intimate ship sizes and a slower pace to soak it all in.

Selecting the right river cruise for you depends on the kind of experience you’re after. There’s a European river cruise for every type of traveler, from families and couples to the budget-conscious and luxury seekers. For a true luxury experience, we recommend a sail aboard Uniworld’s S.S. La Venezia , while for active travelers we love the holistic wellness offerings found on AmaWaterways’ AmaMagna . No matter what you’re searching for, these are the best European river cruises to book for 2024 and beyond.

• Best European River Cruise Overall: Viking Cruises, Viking Egdir

Best High-End European River Cruise: Uniworld, S.S. La Venezia

Best european river cruise for families: a-rosa, a-rosa sena, best european river cruise for couples: scenic, scenic azure, best european river cruise for history lovers: tauck river cruising, ms sapphire, best value european river cruise: emerald cruises, emerald luna, best european river cruise for foodies: riverside luxury cruises, riverside ravel, best european river cruise for active travelers: amawaterways, amamagna, best overall european river cruise: viking cruises, viking egdir.

The stellar 2022-built Viking Egdir, carrying 190 passengers, offers a ringside seat of bucolic vineyards and medieval castles on the Rhine, Main and Danube.

Viking Egdir

Recommended Itinerary: 15-day Grand European Tour, Budapest to Amsterdam (or vice versa)

Departure: March 15 - November 5, 2024, and April 10 - October 23, 2025

All-Star Amenities : Aquavit Terrace for outdoor dining; wine and beer included with lunch and dinner; spacious Sun Deck; golf putting; elegant library; free Wi-Fi; inclusive shore tour option in every port; elegant Scandinavian design

The doyen of Europe's waterways is the adults-only Viking Cruises, a multifaceted cruise line that also boasts a fleet of ocean and expedition vessels. With 55 Nordic-inspired “Longships” sailing mainland Europe—including the Danube, Rhine, Seine, Rhône and Elbe—plus four ships on Portugal's River Douro, Viking has an itinerary for every type of river cruiser. The cruise line’s soothing Scandinavian aesthetic combines a chic design with spacious accommodations that include river views or private verandas, and sails also include drinks during mealtimes, shore excursions and Wi-Fi.

The stellar 2022-built Viking Egdir , carrying 190 passengers, offers a ringside seat of bucolic vineyards and medieval castles on the Rhine, Main and Danube. It also takes passengers to some of Europe's blockbuster cities, including Budapest, Vienna, Cologne and Amsterdam. Passengers can sip on fine wines in the Wachau Valley, wander Regensburg's UNESCO-listed old town and marvel at Vienna's Habsburg-period architecture. Itineraries feature guided trips to revered museums, cathedrals, and palaces—complemented by slow days sailing these scenic waterways.

Passengers can dine on fresh wood-fired pizza at Cielo's and sip Bellinis at Hari's Bar, all while taking in views of Venice's sparkling lagoon.

S.S. La Venezia

Itineraries : 8-day Venice and The Jewels of Veneto, Venice to Venice

Departure: Weekly between March 31 - October 27, 2024, and April 8 - November 3, 2025

All-Star Amenities : Inclusive alcohol, including premium spirits and wines; Asprey toiletries; airport transfers in port; bikes and Nordic walking sticks available for use in port; butler-serviced suites

Murano glass, Savoir beds and marble-clad bathrooms with Asprey toiletries are just some of the sumptuous features that make Uniworld high-end European river cruising at its finest. Each of the cruise line’s 12 vessels is adorned with opulent antiques, crystal chandeliers and dramatic artwork to create the feel of a lavish boutique-hotel-on-water. Passengers can indulge in free-flowing drinks and market-fresh cuisine, while suite guests are assigned white-gloved butlers, each one trained at the prestigious Ivor Spencer Butler School in England to ensure royal standards are met.

One of the few vessels permitted to dock in Italy’s Venetian Lagoon, S.S. La Venezia explores the colorful facades of Burano, Mazzorbo and Torcello, charming Chioggia and the Po Delta, with the bonus of four nights moored in the center of Venice. This ship truly embodies the decadence of Renaissance Venice, with a playful interior featuring hand-painted Venetian masks and flamboyant custom-made fabrics by Venice-design house Fortuny. Passengers can dine on fresh wood-fired pizza at Cielo's and sip Bellinis at Hari's Bar, all while taking in views of Venice's sparkling lagoon.

The 280-passenger ship—the largest on the Rhine—has a kids splash pool next to a larger pool, with some sailings offering kids swimming lessons for an extra fee.

A-Rosa Sena

Itineraries : 7-night Rhine Experience Amsterdam and Rotterdam, Cologne to Cologne

Departure: Late March to late October 2024 and 2025

All-Star Amenities : Children up to 15 travel free; family cabins sleeping up to five and kids splash pool (A-ROSA Sena); dedicated kids club with programming for 4 to 15 years olds; spa thermal area; wine tasting room; family excursions

German river cruise line A-Rosa has carved a niche for multigenerational river voyages after pioneering its kids club in 2014. The line's European family program is available on at least one ship on each river the line sails during school breaks. Fun activities include a “meet the captain” event, pizza-making classes and treasure hunts. All ships are stocked with age-appropriate games and books, and family shore excursions to zoos and theme parks feature on itineraries.

A-Rosa Sena , launched in 2022, is a knockout for its array of family facilities. A jaunty kids' club with a climbing wall and secret nooks is positioned next to 12 family cabins, each sleeping up to five, featuring nautical-themed bunk beds. The 280-passenger ship—the largest on the Rhine—has a kids’ splash pool next to a larger pool, with some sailings offering kids swimming lessons for an extra fee. Mealtimes are peachy, too, with dishes such as dressed salmon and pork goulash, plus a children's buffet luring kids to the table. After a long day of exploring, parents and grandparents can relax at the spa or in the lounge.

The intimate 96-passenger Scenic Azure winds through the port-producing Douro Valley, with its terraced vineyards, olive groves and tranquil towns and villages.

Scenic Azure

Itineraries: 11-day Unforgettable Douro, Porto to Porto

Departure: April-November 2024 and 2025

All-Star Amenities : Butler service; Scenic Sun Lounges; complimentary restocked minibar; pillow menus in suites; included premium drinks, Wi-Fi, shore excursions and gratuities; L’Occitane toiletries; Vitality Pool and Scenic E-Bikes available for use in port

While Scenic isn't strictly adults-only, this elegant Australian-owned cruise line doesn't tend to draw many families, making it ideal for couples. There are 12 Scenic all-suite vessels on Europe's waterways, each one featuring nifty innovations such as in-suite windows that slide down at the touch of a button—perfect for languid mornings gazing at picture-perfect scenery. Couples can dress up for glitzy cocktail receptions and choose from romantic dining venues, including Portobellos or L'Amour, for candlelit meals for two. Diamond Deck and Junior Suite guests can also dine at Table d'Or, where a six-course degustation menu is paired with local wines.

With balmy summertime temperatures, Portugal's sublime Douro is an idyllic river cruise destination for couples. The intimate 96-passenger Scenic Azure winds through the port-producing (and UNESCO-listed) Douro Valley, with its terraced vineyards, olive groves and tranquil towns and villages. The itinerary sees Scenic whisk passengers to historic vineyards and cellars in Regua, Vinhateiro and the Côa Valley to sip on local wines and Port. An unmissable outing for couples is a private classical concert at the beguiling Sao Francisco Church in Porto, offered as one of the cruise line’s “Scenic Enrich” experiences.

Sail the storied Seine from Paris to Normandy aboard Tauck’s 98-passenger MS Sapphire.

MS Sapphire

Itineraries : 11-day River Seine: Châteaux, Impressionism and Normandy, Paris to Paris

Departure: July-August 2024

All-Star Amenities : Inclusive drinks, shore exclusive shore excursions, gratuities and airport transfers; Molton Brown toiletries and terry cloth robes in cabins, 400-thread satin bed linen; putting green

Tauck’s all-inclusive European river cruises are a boon for travelers with a thirst for history. The cruise line sails all of Europe’s major rivers, offering thoughtfully crafted shore experiences that dig deep into each destination’s past. Between off-hours tours at world-renowned museums and guided walks through medieval cities, guests are also invited to join enriching lectures aboard the ships.

Sail the Seine from Paris to Normandy aboard Tauck’s intimate 98-passenger MS Sapphire to explore destinations such as Caudebec-en-Caux, Les Andelys, Mont-St-Michel and Étretat. The cruise features a number of thoughtful, exclusive excursions, like dinner at the 16th-century Château du Taillis and a walking tour in Rouen to Joan of Arc Square and the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Rouen. Most poignant, however, is the chance to pause at the D–Day Beaches, with 2024 marking the 80th anniversary of the Allied landings in Normandy. The guided tour also visits the somber Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial on Omaha Beach.

The line’s newest ship sails Europe’s Rhine, Main, Danube and Moselle rivers, featuring a heated pool that transforms into a cinema, spacious suites and a dedicated wellness area.

Emerald Luna

Itineraries: 8-day Jewels of the Rhine, Amsterdam to Basel (or vice versa)

Departure: May-October 2024 and 2025

All-Star Amenities : Indoor pool that turns into a movie theater at night; 20 e-bikes for use in port; Egyptian cotton sheets; ESPA toiletries in bathrooms; top-deck barbecues; golf-putting green; single occupancy cabins

River cruises are not known as a low-cost vacation option. Some lines, however, offer excellent value—especially when you compare the price to the overall cost of a land-based vacation in Europe. One cruise line that consistently offers great value is Emerald Cruises, a river cruise operator that gets travelers more bang for their buck—without compromising on quality or service. As standard, Emerald’s eight Europe-based “Star-Ships” offer a generous number of inclusions built into the cost of the cruise, with typically lower entry level fares.

Airport transfers to and from the ship, drinks (non-alcoholic, beer and wine) with lunch and dinner, gratuities, Wi-Fi and a plethora of shore excursions are included. There are often excellent deals to be had, too, such as free flight credit when booking early, buy-one-get-one-free offers and reduced-single supplement for solo travelers. Emerald’s ships are unquestionably elegant, including the 180-guest Emerald Luna, which sails Europe’s Rhine, Main, Danube and Moselle rivers. Guests on board can enjoy a heated pool that transforms into a cinema, spacious suites and a dedicated wellness area.

The fleetwide reservation-only Vintage Room is set up for private dining, with an extravagant seven-course wine-pairing menu.

Riverside Ravel

Itineraries: 7-night Experience Rhône, Avignon to Avignon (three-, four- and five-night itineraries also available)

Departure: April 10, April 22, June 14, June 26, 2024

All-Star Amenities : All-suite ship; butler-service; onboard concierges; Vintage Room for private dining and wine tastings; open dining in the main restaurant; rooftop herb gardens

Palate-pleasing gastronomy and epicurean shore excursions make new arrival Riverside Luxury Cruises a standout for foodies. The cruise line, which cruises on several ships that once belonged to luxury cruise line Crystal, offers a sublime culinary program, particularly on the 110-passenger Riverside Ravel , which taps into the Rhône’s extraordinary bounty. All menus onboard reflect the region, with vintage wines, dishes featuring truffle, escargot and foie gras and a gout-inducing selection of premium cheeses.

For true indulgence, book a table at the fleetwide reservation-only Vintage Room, set up for private dining, with an extravagant seven-course wine-pairing menu. The experience is worth the $295 fee, especially for true oenophiles who will get to savor coveted Bordeaux Grand Crus. Other highlights include visiting a truffle farm near Viviers and savoring a selection of wines at Châteauneuf-du-Pape vineyard. In Lyon, guests can visit foodie heaven at Les Halles de Lyon Paul Bocuse, the city’s outstanding indoor food market filled with a vast array of produce.

AmaWaterways' active excursions take in some of Europe’s most breathtaking scenery—enticing passengers on hilly bike rides and waterside hikes.

Itineraries: 7-night Magna on the Danube, Budapest to Vilshofen

Departure: February 11-December 15, 2024, March 9 - December 28, 2025

All-Star Amenities: Full-size pickleball court (AmaMagna); wellness studio with fitness equipment; active shore excursions; included Wi-Fi and excursions in every port; complimentary wellness bar with juices and infused water; daily cocktail hour and bikes for use ashore

AmaWaterways' holistic wellness program encompasses a variety of fitness classes and wellness-themed excursions, making it the leading European river cruise line for active travelers. Each ship has an onboard wellness director who hosts daily fitness classes as well as meditation and yoga. The cruise line’s active excursions are perfect for taking in some of Europe’s most breathtaking scenery, with passengers able to cycle among Austria's Wachau Valley vineyards on a Danube cruise or hike the Philosopher's Way for dreamy views of Heidelberg on a Rhine sailing. AmaWaterways was also the first river cruise operator to carry a fleet of complimentary bicycles.

The 196-passenger, Danube-based AmaMagna is a standout among the cruise line’s well-equipped offerings. Limber up for a game of pickleball on the full-size court that was just added in 2023. Passengers can work out solo at the Zen Wellness Studio or join an open-air spin class, while drinking in scenic river views. The ship's ample deck space also offers passengers the chance to unwind in the heated pool and indulge in a nap-inducing massage in one of two treatment rooms.

About Kerry Spencer, Your European River Cruise Guide

I am a freelance journalist who has covered travel for over a decade and the cruise industry for several of those years. I've written about destinations ranging from the South China Sea to the Arctic and Norway. Some of my favorite cruise experiences include sailing the Rhine during fall or a transatlantic voyage on the Queen Mary 2 during summer. I adore my home city, London, the west coast of Ireland and New York, where I once spent a summer living in Brooklyn Heights on a work abroad program. Outside of travel, my passions are my veggie patch, my record collection and spending time with friends and family.

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Budget River Cruises in Europe

Discover a varied offer of cheap European river cruises that will take you through some of the most renowned destinations such as Budapest and Vienna. Each affordable cruise will provide you with memorable moments for some of the lowest prices on the market.

33 cheap river cruises on the Europe with 94 reviews

• River Cruise
• Sightseeing

The Magic of the Provençal Rhône and the Camargue (port-to-port cruise) (10 destinations)

we had a terrific trip. first rate staff on board.

Romantic Rhine (Southbound) 2024

Sehr schön, tolle Gruppenreise, viele verschiedene Reiseeinheiten buchbar. Gutes Essen, Service war gut, Unterkunft angepasst und schöne Unterhaltung. Auch als Alleinreisender durchführbar.

Trans-European cruise from Budapest to Strasbourg (port-to-port cruise)

Great staff, great food and drinks

Greek Islands By Cruise - 8 Days

The Romantic Rhine Valley and the Rock of Lorelei (port-to-port cruise)

This was our first time and overall we enjoyed the exparience. However, we felt everything was too organised. The food was beautifully cooked and presented but there was just too much at each meal. There was no choice of main course and not enough green vegetables and salads.

From Berlin to Copenhagen The Havel, the Oder and the Baltic sea (port-to-port cruise)

4 Rivers: The Moselle, Sarre, Romantic Rhine, and Neckar Valleys (port-to-port cruise)

The ship itself was great, rooms and bathroom were a good size for a smaller ship. The food and dining room staff were excellent. Entertainment and on board communication was poor only in French. Need to do a better job it ensure that customers that don’t speak French are informed on whats going on and are seated together in the dining room! The excursions that were provided were good but some were only with a French speaking guide. Overall we had great time on this Cruise!

From Copenhagen to Berlin: The Baltic Sea and the Oder and Havel Rivers (port-to-port cruise)

Magnificent Rivers of Europe with 3 Nights in Prague

All the must-see sites on the Rhône between Lyon, Provence, and the Camargue with a dinner at Paul Bocuse's Abbaye de Collonges Restaurant OFFERED (port-to-port cruise) (including Vienne)

We enjoyed the cruise, staff are friendly and helpful! The room is good. The food is delicious but too much in quantity!

All the must-see sites on the Rhône between Lyon, Provence, and the Camargue with a dinner at Paul Bocuse's Abbaye de Collonges Restaurant OFFERED (port-to-port cruise) (including La Voulte-sur-Rhone)

Family Cruise: on the romantic Rhine and in the heart of the Black Forest.Experience history and traditions in a Rhine atmosphere.Optional: a day at Europa Park (port-to-port cruise).

Fabulous crew, great food, wonderful service, lovely ship! We had a super holiday!

The exceptional region of Bordeaux (port-to-port cruise)

Ship was clean and modern. Crew were helpful and accommodating.

The Doubs valley and Burgundy (port-to-port cruise)

From the Châteaux of Chambord and Chenonceau to the Loire Valley (10 destinations)

What people love about budget river cruise tours in europe.

The start was a bit inauspicious. We couldn't find the boat!! Turned out it was moored alongside a companion boat with no sign indicating its presence. But from there in was onwards and upwards!! Only 7 English speakers from the 90 passengers, but we were extremely well looked after. The food was excellent - no superb!!, the staff also excellent and the two trips we did to the Ardeche and especially the night tour of Arles were most enjoyable. Recommended without reservation!!

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.

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International Versions

• Deutsch: Günstige Europa Flusskreuzfahrt
• Français: Circuits Croisière fluviale Budget en Europe
• Español: Circuitos económicos de Crucero fluvial por Europa
• Nederlands: Budget Riviercruise Rondreizen in Europa

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Prague (Czechia)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region Europe Rivers

Local Time 2024-03-31 14:58

Port Prague cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Prague, Czechia. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

Prague is a Vltava River cruise port, the Czechia's capital and biggest city. By population (nearly 1,3 million, metro around 2,16 million)), it is the EU's / European Union's 14th-largest. The city once was also the capital of the Holy Roman Empire. After WW2 (1939-45) it became Czechoslovakia's capital city.

Danube River cruises from Prague actually start/end in Nuremberg Germany , as the deals are inclusive of the bus travel between Prague and Nuremberg (as embarkation / disembarkation port).

The city is home to numerous cultural events. Signature landmarks and shore excursion destinations are Charles Bridge, Jewish Quarter, Prague Castle, Old Town Square, Petrín Hill, Vysehrad. Its extensive historic center was included in UNESCO's World Heritage Sites list since 1992. The city has 10 large museums, numerous galleries, theatres, historical exhibits, renowned schools (including Charles University).

Prague receives around 6,4 million international visitors annually, ranking it Europe's 5th most visited city - after London , Paris , Istanbul and Rome . Among the most popular tours offered from Prague is Pilsen. The distance is approx 95 km (60 mi) - bus travel time around 1 hour 20 min.

Pilsen (Plzeň) is a city located in Czech Republic's western Bohemia, with population around 170,000 (the country's 4th largest). The city is located approx 90 km (56 mi) west of the capital Prague . It is famous worldwide for the Pilsner beer - pale lager created in 1842 by the Bavarian brewer Josef Groll (1813-1887).

• The most prominent city sights are the St Bartholomew's Cathedral (late 13th century, its tower is the country's highest - at 102 m / 335 ft), the Town Hall, the Moorish Revival Great Synagogue (Europea's 2nd largest - after Dohany Street Synagogue in Budapest ).
• Pilsen has a 20 km (12 mi) long historic underground tunnel. Part of this cellar network is open to the public for tours.
• Pilsen is well known for its breweries Pilsner Urquell (1842) and Gambrinus (1869), which are currently owned by SAB (South African Breweries). The Plzeňský Prazdroj brewery tour is a popular tourist attraction.

In 2015 Pilsen was the European Capital Of Culture, along with Mons (Belgium).

Scenic announces 2024 European River Cruise Season featuring 2 new itineraries

Scenic Group announced its 2024 European River Cruise offerings featuring a couple of new itineraries: a 10-day Danube in Depth visiting the historic...

AmaWaterways launches early start to 2024 Europe Season

AmaWaterways announced a record level of bookings in January 2023. The company reminded travel agents of the new sales opportunities offered as a...

Emerald River Cruises introduces 2022 European itineraries

Emerald River Cruises released the brand's "2022 European River Cruise Preview" brochure with an extensive collection of cruisetours and land...

Princess Cruises announces Europe 2022 March-November season

Princess Cruises introduced new itineraries in Europe scheduled for summer 2022. Already on sale, the company offers 178 departures on a total of 70...

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Prague - user reviews and comments

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Delightful Danube

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Sailing Date : 14 Jun 2024

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Enjoy unique sightseeing activities designed to make your holiday that little bit more special

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The Danube's Imperial Cities and Yuletide Markets River Cruise - MS William Wordsworth

5 Night Sailing

Sailing Date : 17 Dec 2024

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Burgundy, the River Rhône and Provence River Cruise - MS Lord Byron

Sailing Date : 14 Jul 2024

Rhone, Saone

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Burgundy & Provence (Northbound)

Sailing Date : 05 Aug 2024

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Brilliant Bordeaux

Sailing Date : 26 May 2024

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Sensations of Lyon & Provence

Sailing Date : 10 Aug 2024

World-class fleet of contemporary floating boutique hotels

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Sailing Date : 27 Jul 2024

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Idyllic Rhône

Sailing Date : 22 Jul 2024

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Bordeaux Affair

Sailing Date : 05 May 2024

Unforgettable Douro with Lisbon

13 Night Sailing

Sailing Date : 05 Apr 2024

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Unforgettable Douro with Lisbon & Madrid

16 Night Sailing

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Danube Dreams (Eastbound)

Cruise only from £1773.

The Danube from Germany to Romania

14 Night Sailing

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Melodies of the Danube

Sailing Date : 06 Apr 2024

Fly for Free on selected Europe sailings PLUS Savings up to £1,500 per couple

Award-Winning Included Dining Experiences

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Lisbon & Secrets of the Douro

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Tulips & Windmills

9 Night Sailing

Dutch Waterway

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Temple Discovery and Luxury Mekong Cruise - 7 or 9 night cruise

10 Night Sailing

Save up to 30%*, with Flight Credit included.*

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Tulips & the Rhine

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Sensations of Lyon & Provence with Nice

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Tulip Time Cruise for Beer Enthusiasts

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Treasures of the Mekong - 7 or 9 night cruise

12 Night Sailing

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Romantic Danube

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Secrets of the Douro

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7 Cruise Lines That Let Kids Sail Free

C onsidering a cruise vacation? Many of the world’s most popular family cruise lines offer ongoing promotions that let kids sail free on new bookings for families traveling together, and this year that list is growing with even more kids-cruise-free promotions. Whether it’ll be your first cruise vacation or your fiftieth, why not do it with free cruise fare for the kids?

Which Cruise Lines Offer Kids Sail Free Deals?

With an assist from the experts at  CruiseCritic , I’ve compiled a complete list of every major cruise line that will let kids cruise free or at a significantly reduced price. Additional cruise fare savings onboard these kid-friendly cruise lines can also put a vacation within reach for families looking to balance tighter budgets. Note that taxes, fees, port expenses, registration costs, insurance, flights, and airport transfers are generally not included in kids sail free promotions (but you’ll still save a fortune).

MORE FREEBIES: 10 All-Inclusive Family Resorts Where Kids Stay Free

1. Royal Caribbean – Kids Sail Free Promotions

Perennially kid-friendly Royal Caribbean has a loyal family following that appreciates its extensive kid-centric offerings, including kids clubs, family-oriented entertainment options,  endless pools and water play areas , menus built with kids’ palates in mind, a private island oasis called Perfect Day at CocoCay , and even kid-centered spa options.

NO HIDDEN FEES: 7 Best All-Inclusive Cruise Lines in the World

Royal Caribbean’s kids sail free offers are available at different times throughout the year, allowing children aged 12 years and under to cruise free when booked in the same stateroom as paying adults. You can find the latest Royal Caribbean cruise deals here and a list of additional promotions  here . If you don’t see a kids sail free promotion right now, check back often, as they can go quickly once offered, but always pop up again soon after.

2. Norwegian Cruise Line – Free at Sea Deals

Another kid-friendly cruise line, Norwegian offers some seriously good deals to entice traveling families, including a host of “Free at Sea” perks that include kids sail free deals (and some great deals on cruises for couples , too). You can find the latest Norwegian cruise deals here and a list of additional “Free at Sea” other limited time offers  here whenever they’re available.

IT’S ALL INCLUDED: 15 Best All-Inclusive Family Resorts in the World

Norwegian typically offers up to five freebies with its “Free at Sea” promotion: free open bar, free specialty dining, free excursions and port expenses, free Wi-Fi, and best of all for families, kids sail free rates for the third guests and fourth guests in your group (for select cruise departure dates; exclusions on Thanksgiving sailings, Easter sailings, and spring break may apply).

3. MSC Cruises – Kids Cruise Free and All-in-One Pricing

Kids aged 18 and under staying in the same cabin as a parent can cruise for free with MSC Cruises . Its “kids cruise free” deal is often accompanied by other perks like compimentary drinks and Wi-Fi, and an onboard credit that sometimes goes as high as $400. For more information and to see the valid cruise departure dates, check out the cruise deals offered by MSC Cruises on its website and search MSC deals here .

CLOSE TO HOME:   21 Best All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for Families

MSC Cruises also offers an “all-in-one” pricing option for single parents or guardians traveling with up to three kids even when it’s not running a limited-time free sailing promo for children. With this reduced price for kids, the grownup is charged full cruise fare, the second guest under age 18 pays 60 percent of the grownup fare, and the remaining kids are charged reduced fares.

4. Holland America Line – Kids Cruise Free on Select Voyages

Cruising to destinations as far and wide as Asia, Alaska, the South Pacific, the Caribbean, New Zealand, and Indonesia, Holland America offers kids cruise free promotions on select voyages in 2024. Its current deal, valid on some cruises to Mexico, the Caribbean, and beyond, lets kids 18 and under sail free.

NO PASSPORT REQUIRED: 25 Best Family Vacation Spots in the U.S. for All Ages

While Holland America Line urges cruisers to “book right away” because “this offer won’t last long,” it’s a safe bet that when one kids cruise free promotion ends another one will begin soon after, because that’s been the pattern for many years now. For more information, visit the kids cruise free page on Holland America’s website and search Holland America cruise deals here . Holland America’s other discounts and deals, which are also perpetually ongoing, include balcony stateroom upgrades and onboard credit.

5. Costa Cruises – Kids Sail Free When Traveling as a Third or Fourth Guest

You might not be familiar with Costa Cruises unless you’ve looked into cruises around South America, Europe, or the Middle East, which are the cruise line’s areas of focus. But if your cruise vacation dreams involve one of those destinations, you definitely want to give Costa Cruises some consideration. Its family-friendly ships have all the usual fun-at-sea perks you could want, including water parks, mini golf, go-karts, and both a kids club (for ages three to 11) and a teen zone (ages 12 to 17).

WHAT’S NEW: These 4 Cruise Lines Have the Best New Onboard Rides and Attractions for Families

To sweeten the spot, Costa Cruises has an ongoing kids sail free deal for children ages two to 17 when the kids travel as a third or fourth guest with two full-priced grownup guests. Better yet, this free cruise promotion is valid line-wide across all of Costa’s ships and not limited to select sailings.

6. CroisiEurope – Kids Sail Free on European River Cruises

Most European river cruise companies either don’t cater to families or outright discourage people from traveling with kids. That’s not the case with CroisiEurope , which is once again embracing family-friendly European river cruising with kids sail free deals on select river cruises around France, Portugal, Spain, the Rhine, and Italy. The free cruise deal is available for kids up to age 16.

SET SAIL: Everything You Need to Know about River Cruises in the U.S.

In addition to the free cruise rates for kids, CroisiEurope offers a 30 percent discount on Croatia coastal sailings for children. Families can also get adjacent cabins when booking multiple staterooms, child-friendly adapted menus at mealtimes, and a waived single supplement fee. For more information about free and discounted cruises for kids with CroisiEurope, visit the family cruise deals page here .

7. Crystal Cruises – Kids Under 11 Pay Half Price

Prior to changing ownership a few years ago, luxury all-inclusive line Crystal Cruises regularly allowed children 17 and under to cruise free when staying in the same stateroom with two passengers aged 21 or older. The current ongoing policy for kids is a little more restrictive because it only applies to children younger than 11, and the discount is 50 percent rather than kids sail free.

However, the luxury cruise company does sometimes still offer a promotion that allow kids under 18 to sail free when staying as a third or fourth guest. To see if this deal is currently being offered, click here .

More from FamilyVacationist:

• I’ve Been on 7 Disney Cruises, Here Are the Best Things for Grownups to Do
• Unique Disney Experiences: 7 Best Disney Cruises for Families  
• 5 Cruise Lines That Know How to Keep Teens (and Their Families) Happy

The post 7 Cruise Lines That Let Kids Sail Free appeared first on FamilyVacationist .