A river cruise is a unique and enchanting way to see a side of Europe that most people will never get to experience. Imagine gliding past centuries-old castles, historic villages, and lush rolling vineyards as you relax from the deck or balcony of your room.
Compared to some of the larger cruise ships that circle the Caribbean or other parts of North America, I believe that European river cruises offer a more intimate experience. Not only are the ships themselves smaller, but you’ll also get to participate in historical and cultural activities that aren’t overly touristy.
So, if you’re ready to see these countries the way they’re meant to be seen, then you’ll want to check out the following river cruise options in Europe.
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What
are the Best River Cruises in Europe?
The Viking Grand European Tour is a great option as it visits four different countries and sails down three iconic European rivers. But if you are limited on time, you can still do a 7-night cruise through France (Culinary Experience Cruise with Avalon Waterways) or through Portugal (Vida Portugal with Avalon Waterways).
But at the end of the day, the cruise you choose will largely depend on what part of Europe you want to see. From the historic sites along the Danube to the charming villages on the Scheldt, the options for seeing Europe are seemingly endless!
1. Viking Grand European Tour
Travel through the heart of Europe and enjoy a scenic sailing on not just one but three different Rivers. Spend a few days cruising up the Danube and through the Wachau Valley before making your way through the impressive 16-lock Main-Danube Canal. From here, you’ll continue through Germany and up toward the Middle Rhine.
I find that Viking Cruises tends to be more “all-inclusive” than other river cruise operators. For example, travelers get one free shore excursion in every port of call, which I think is a HUGE benefit. On top of that, you’ll also get free wifi, beer and wine with lunch and dinner, and visits to all the UNESCO sites.
- Nights: 14
- Departs: Budapest, Hungary
- Returns: Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Ports of Call: Vienna, Austria; Melk, Austria; Passau, Germany; Regensburg, Germany, Nuremberg, Germany; Bamberg, Germany; Würzburg, Germany; Wertheim, Germany, Koblenz, Germany; Cologne, Germany; Kinderdijk, the Netherlands
- River: Rhine, Main, Danube
2. Tauck Belgium & Holland in Spring
Spring is one of the most beautiful times to visit this part of Europe – mainly because of all the blooming gardens and flower fields! I visited Belgium and the Netherlands in April and can confirm that the entire country seems as if it’s alive with color.
But this cruise isn’t just for visiting gardens. You’ll also get to explore the Kinderdijk Windmills, the fairy-tale village of Bruges, and many other stops in between.
Tauck is one of the more luxurious river cruise companies, but they do come with some unique perks to make your experience extra special. For example, guests will be treated to a private gala dinner and tour at the Mauritshuis Museum in the Hague. And that’s on top of all the private excursions that are included with your trip!
- Nights: 8
- Departs: Brussels, Belgium
- Returns: Amsterdam, the Netherlands
- Visits: Antwerp, Belgium; Ghent, Belgium; Dordrecht, the Netherlands; Rotterdam, the Netherlands
- River: Scheldt
3. Viking Cities of Lights
You’d be hard-pressed to find a more romantic cruise than Viking’s Cities of Lights Tour. You’ll start your journey in Paris (which I believe is the most romantic city in the world!) before sailing past the rolling vineyards of the Moselle.
You’ll then reach the Rhine, stopping in some of the oldest and most picturesque cities in Germany. Visit the Roman baths and amphitheater in Trier, admire the impressive medieval castle in Cochem, and wander down the charming cobblestone streets in Bernkastel.
You’ll continue through Germany down the Main before making your final stop in Prague, another romantic destination. I recommend taking your spouse, sweetheart, or anyone else you want to share these unforgettable moments with!
- Nights: 11
- Departs: Paris, France
- Returns: Prague, Czech Republic
- Visits: Reims, France; Trier, Germany; Berkastle, Germany; Cochem, Germany; Koblenz, Germany; Heidelberg, Germany; Würzburg, Germany; Bamberg, Germany; Nuremberg, Germany
- Rivers: Moselle, Rhine, Main
4. Avalon Waterways Vida Portugal
The Duoro Valley is one of my favorite places in all of Portugal. There’s just something so magical about being in the world’s oldest wine region, surrounded by steep vineyards, sleepy villages, and historic wine cellars.
This is a very intimate experience, as the boat only has 14 staterooms and 37 suites. While you don’t have a ton of excursion options, guests can choose between two different activities at each port of call (Discovery Excursions or Classic Excursions). Some activities include guided tours of towns, farm visits, wine tastings, and castle tours.
- Nights: 7
- Departs: Porto, Portugal
- Returns: Porto, Portugal
- Visits: Pinhão, Portugal; Barca d’alva; Portugal, Ferradosa, Portugal; Leverinho, Portugal
- River: Duoro
5. Tauck Blue Danube
This luxury cruise down the Danube takes you back in time to when Europe was ruled by kingdoms and dynasties. You’ll visit Baroque palaces, Romanesque churches, and numerous villages that still feel as if they haven’t changed in centuries.
Keep in mind that the cruise portion of this trip is only nine nights. After the ship disembarks in Vilshofen, Germany, you’ll be whisked away to Prague for another two nights (hotel stay is included).
As with all Tauk river cruises, this one also includes some very special one-of-a-kind experiences. You’ll enjoy a gala dinner and Viennese performance in a palace in Vienna, have dinner at the Lobkowicz Palace in Prague, and even get a private tour of Prague’s Baroque libraries and Strahov Monastery.
- Nights: 11
- Departs: Budapest, Hungary
- Returns: Vilshofen, Germany
- Visits: Bratislava, Slovakia; Vienna, Austria; Dürnstein, Austria; Salzburg, Austria; Engelhartszell, Austria; Prague, Czech Republic
- River: Danube
6. Avalon Waterways A Culinary Experience in Burgundy & Provence
If you’re a big foodie like me, then you’ll want to book the Culinary Experience Cruise with Avalon Waterways. This cruise sails through Burgundy and Provence, two of the biggest gastronomic areas of France.
You’ll spend 8 wonderful days (7 nights) soaking in the picturesque views of vineyards, villages, and the beautiful French countryside. There are different active or sightseeing excursions offered at each port, but the real fun happens when you’re back on the boat. That’s because Avalon has arranged different culinary experiences on certain nights of your cruise.
On one night, guests will be treated to a French dinner and wine pairing led by the ship’s Master of Wine. Then there’s cheese tasting, a crepe lunch, and the gourmet dinner inspired by legendary chef Paul Bocuse.
- Nights: 7
- Departs: Arles, France
- Returns: Chalon-sur-Saone, France
- Visits: Avignon, France; Viviers, France; Tain l’Hermitage, France; Lyon, France; Tournus-Chalon-Sur-Saone, France
- River: Rhone, Saone
7. Ama Waterways Iconic Christmas Markets
I’ve lived in Europe for over six years and can say with confidence that Christmas is one of the most magical times of the year! This is largely due to the fact that we have such beautiful Christmas markets with twinkling lights, lit-up wooden huts, and tons of delicious foods and hot beverages. And if you book this cruise from Ama Waterways, you’ll see exactly what I’m talking about.
You’ll have the chance to visit at least one Christmas market at each port of call on your trip. Alternatively, you can also book a more active excursion like bike tours, sightseeing tours, or walking tours.
- Nights: 7
- Departs: Nuremberg, Germany
- Returns: Budapest, Hungary
- Visits: Regensburg, Germany; Passau, Germany; Melk, Austria; Vienna, Austria
- River: Danube
If you’ve been debating whether to take a river cruise through Europe – let me make your decision easier. Do it! Not only will you get to see beautiful landscapes and cities, but you’ll also have the opportunity to participate in some really unique activities. Every stop is guaranteed to be a new adventure that you’ll keep with you for the rest of your life!