10 Best European River Cruises: Discovering the Charm and Beauty

Are you dreaming of embarking on a mesmerizing journey through Europe’s most enchanting waterways, but finding it difficult to navigate the plethora of river cruise options available?

Choosing the perfect river cruise that matches your interests, comfort preferences, and travel goals can indeed be a daunting task.

This is where we step in.

In this blog post, we’ve curated a list of the best European river cruises, combining stunning itineraries, luxurious accommodations, and immersive experiences.

Let us guide you through your options, from exploring the fairy-tale castles along the Rhine to wine tasting on the Douro, and help you set sail on your dream European river cruise. Read on to discover your perfect floating getaway.

Best River Cruises in Europe

Danube River Cruise: From Budapest to Vienna

Sailing through the heart of Central Europe, a Danube River cruise offers a delightful blend of stunning scenery, historic cities, and vibrant cultures.

Begin your journey in the enchanting city of Budapest before exploring the picturesque towns of Bratislava and Dürnstein. Conclude your cruise in the elegant Austrian capital, Vienna, where you can explore grand palaces, impressive museums, and charming coffeehouses.

Luxury cruise lines such as AmaWaterways and Viking River Cruises offer exceptional itineraries and service on this iconic route.

Rhine River Cruise: From Amsterdam to Basel

A Rhine River cruise offers a captivating journey through the heart of Europe, featuring a wealth of historical treasures, charming towns, and breathtaking landscapes.

Starting in the vibrant city of Amsterdam, sail through the scenic Dutch countryside and explore Germany’s picturesque wine country. Marvel at the dramatic Rhine Gorge, dotted with centuries-old castles, before ending your cruise in the Swiss city of Basel.

Luxury cruise lines such as Uniworld and Scenic River Cruises offer outstanding itineraries and accommodations on this popular route.

Seine River Cruise: Paris to Normandy

A Seine River cruise offers the perfect opportunity to explore the romantic landscapes and rich history of Northern France.

Embark on your journey in the City of Light, Paris, before sailing through the picturesque landscapes that inspired Impressionist painters like Monet and Van Gogh.

Visit the historic towns of Rouen and Giverny, and pay tribute to the heroes of World War II at the poignant Normandy beaches.

Luxury cruise lines such as Avalon Waterways and Tauck River Cruises provide top-notch experiences on this beautiful route.

Douro River Cruise: Porto to Salamanca

Discover the soul of Portugal and Spain on a Douro River cruise, an enchanting journey through the sun-drenched valleys and terraced vineyards of the Iberian Peninsula.

Begin your voyage in the colorful city of Porto, famous for its port wine, and sail through the idyllic Douro Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore charming towns and historic sites, such as the ancient city of Salamanca, before returning to Porto.

Luxury cruise lines like Emerald Waterways and CroisiEurope offer unforgettable itineraries and accommodations on this captivating route.

Rhône River Cruise: Lyon to Avignon

A Rhône River cruise is a feast for the senses, showcasing the culinary delights, world-class wines, and stunning landscapes of Southern France.

Embark on your journey in the gastronomic capital of Lyon, and sail through the picturesque vineyards of the Rhône Valley. Visit historic towns such as Avignon and Arles, known for their Roman ruins and charming Provençal ambiance.

Luxury cruise lines like APT and Riviera Travel offer superb itineraries and service on this delectable route.

Elbe River Cruise: Berlin to Prague

An Elbe River cruise offers a journey through the heart of Europe, combining the cultural riches of Germany and the Czech Republic.

Begin your voyage in the dynamic city of Berlin before sailing through the lush landscapes of the Saxon Switzerland National Park. Explore the historic cities of Dresden and Meissen, known for their exquisite porcelain and stunning Baroque architecture.

Conclude your cruise in the enchanting Czech capital, Prague, where you can wander through the cobblestone streets of the Old Town and marvel at the Gothic splendor of St. Vitus Cathedral.

Luxury cruise lines such as Viking River Cruises and Avalon Waterways provide unforgettable itineraries and accommodations on this fascinating route.

Moselle River Cruise: From Koblenz to Trier

A Moselle River cruise is a delightful journey through the romantic landscapes and charming towns of Germany’s picturesque wine country.

Embark on your voyage in the historic city of Koblenz, where the Moselle and Rhine rivers meet, and sail through the enchanting Moselle Valley, known for its steep vineyards and fairy-tale castles.

Visit the ancient Roman city of Trier and explore the medieval town of Cochem, famous for its majestic Reichsburg Castle.

Luxury cruise lines such as AmaWaterways and Scenic River Cruises offer exceptional itineraries and service on this captivating route.

Po River Cruise: Venice to Milan

A Po River cruise offers an unforgettable journey through the diverse landscapes and rich history of Northern Italy.

Begin your voyage in the magical city of Venice, famous for its labyrinth of canals and stunning architecture.

Sail through the serene waterways of the Po Delta, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and explore the historic cities of Ferrara and Mantua. Conclude your cruise in the vibrant fashion capital of Milan, where you can admire the iconic Duomo and shop for exquisite Italian design.

Luxury cruise lines such as Uniworld and CroisiEurope provide top-notch experiences and accommodations on this charming route.

Volga River Cruise: Moscow to St. Petersburg

A Volga River cruise offers a unique opportunity to explore the rich cultural heritage and stunning natural beauty of Russia.

Embark on your journey in the bustling capital of Moscow, where you can marvel at the iconic sights of the Kremlin and Red Square. Sail through the picturesque landscapes of the Russian countryside and visit historic towns and cities, such as Uglich, Yaroslavl, and Kizhi Island.

Conclude your voyage in the imperial city of St. Petersburg, famous for its grand palaces, world-class museums, and enchanting canals.

Luxury cruise lines like Scenic River Cruises and Viking River Cruises offer exceptional itineraries and accommodations on this captivating route.

Dordogne and Garonne River Cruise: Bordeaux to Sarlat

A Dordogne and Garonne River cruise is a journey through the heart of France’s famed wine country, offering an intoxicating blend of stunning scenery, historic sites, and world-class wines.

Begin your voyage in the elegant city of Bordeaux and sail through the picturesque vineyards and charming towns of the Dordogne and Garonne valleys. Explore the medieval city of Saint-Émilion, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and visit the historic châteaux and wineries of the region.

Conclude your cruise in the enchanting town of Sarlat, famous for its well-preserved medieval architecture and vibrant local markets.

Luxury cruise lines such as AmaWaterways and CroisiEurope offer outstanding itineraries and accommodations on this delightful route.