European River Cruises

Navigate the Charm of Europe’s Rivers on a Cruise

European river cruises offer an enchanting way to explore the heart of Europe, gliding along some of the continent’s most iconic rivers, including the Danube, Rhine, and Seine. With picturesque scenery, quaint towns, and rich history at every bend, a river cruise is an ideal way to immerse yourself in the culture and heritage of multiple countries. Fun fact: Europe boasts over 3,600 rivers, making it a treasure trove for exploring by water! From the towering castles overlooking the Rhine to the open-air cafés lining the Seine, there’s no shortage of highlights waiting for you on a European river cruise.

Must-Visit Harbours Along European Rivers

When you set sail along the European rivers, you’ll encounter these five stunning harbours that showcase the region’s unique charm:

• Vienna, Austria
  Arriving in Vienna, a city renowned for its imperial history and vibrant arts scene, gives you plenty to explore. After disembarking, consider visiting the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace or strolling through the lovely gardens of the Belvedere. If time is tight, don’t miss tasting Vienna’s famed sachertorte (chocolate cake) at a traditional coffee house while enjoying the classic waltz music that fills the air.
• Strasbourg, France
  Strasbourg offers a delightful mix of French and German culture. After your cruise docks, wander through the UNESCO-listed La Petite France district, famed for its charming half-timbered houses and canal views. Take a moment to visit the stunning Strasbourg Cathedral and, if you have enough time, sample some authentic Alsatian flammkuchen (tarte flambée) at a local eatery!
• Budapest, Hungary
  Budapest, the beautiful “Pearl of the Danube,” welcomes cruisers with its stunning architecture and rich history. As you arrive, take a scenic walk along the Danube Promenade for jaw-dropping views of the Parliament building. If time is limited, hop on the funicular railway to reach Buda Castle for panoramic city vistas, and be sure to indulge in traditional goulash at a nearby restaurant.
• Cologne, Germany
  Home to the iconic Cologne Cathedral, this city offers a delightful mix of gothic architecture and cozy beer gardens. Upon docking, visit the cathedral to admire its grandeur and explore charming old town streets filled with local shops. If you can, sneak in a taste of Kölsch, the local beer, before heading to your ship.
• Passau, Germany
  Located at the confluence of three rivers, Passau boasts charming medieval architecture and picturesque scenery. Once your cruise arrives, take a leisurely stroll through the historic town centre or visit the stunning St. Stephen’s Cathedral, famous for holding one of the largest church organs in the world. If you’re feeling adventurous, consider renting a bike to explore the scenic riverside trails before re-boarding your cruise!

Best Times to Cruise the European Rivers

The ideal time to explore the European rivers is between April and October, when temperatures generally range from 10°C to 30°C. Spring (April to June) attracts visitors with blossoming trees and vibrant festivals across cities along the rivers. Autumn (September to October) showcases stunning fall foliage, accompanied by fewer crowds. However, the winter months of November to March offer a completely different charm, with holiday markets and festive lights lighting up the streets, although temperatures can dip below 5°C.

Cruising Costs Overview for European Rivers

What can you expect to pay for a European river cruise? For a 1-week cruise, prices typically start around $1,200 and can go up to $3,500 for standard options, while luxury cruises often range from $4,000 to $8,000 or more. If you’re considering a 2-week cruise, costs can range from $2,500 to $6,500 for regular cruises and from $8,000 to $15,000 for luxury cruises. The best time to find lower prices tends to be in the early spring and late autumn months. Dining in European cities generally lands at about $20 to $50 per meal, with local beverages averaging around $5 to $12.

Major Cruise Lines on European Rivers

• CroisiEurope
  This cruise line operates a fleet of 37 ships, with an impressive 33 offering itineraries along European rivers. The most notable vessels are Mona Lisa and L’Europe, which typically embark from Strasbourg or Paris. Renowned for its warm, personable service and diverse itinerary options, CroisiEurope ensures a comfortable cruising experience complete with onboard entertainment and local experiential shore excursions.
• A-ROSA
  A-ROSA features 13 ships, all dedicated to European river itineraries. Notable vessels include A-ROSA BRAVA and A-ROSA SILVA, departing most frequently from Cologne or Passau. A-ROSA is celebrated for its family-friendly atmosphere, with options for onboard entertainment tailored to guests of all ages, as well as delightful meals prepared with local flavours.
• Ambassador Cruise Line
  This smaller cruise line has just 2 ships, with Ambition covering European river itineraries. Departures usually occur from Tilbury (London). Ambassador stands out for its no-fly cruises, offering convenient journeys and a focus on authentic, immersive experiences that cater specifically to a British clientele.

Luxury and Small Ship Options

• Viking River Cruises
  Viking boasts a substantial fleet of 63 ships, with an impressive 58 providing itineraries along European rivers. The most popular ships include Viking Gefjon and Viking Vidar, commonly departing from Amsterdam or Basel. Viking is known for its all-inclusive packages, carefully curated shore excursions, and high standards of onboard comfort and cuisine.
• Silversea
  With a fleet of 13 ships, Silversea offers three that focus on European rivers, namely Silver Dawn and Silver Spirit. Departures usually occur from Southampton or Belfast. Silversea is synonymous with ultra-luxury, providing rigorously personalised service and fine dining options that enhance the cruising experience.
• Oceania Cruises
  Oceania operates 8 ships, with two offering European river itineraries, including Sirena and Vista. These cruises typically depart from Stockholm or Antwerp. Known for their gourmet dining experiences and destination-focused programming, Oceania engages guests with culturally enriching onshore excursions.
• Azamara Cruises
  With a fleet of 4 ships, Azamara has two vessels, Azamara Quest and Azamara Journey, exploring European rivers. Departures generally occur from Bordeaux or Portsmouth. Azamara is particularly noted for its immersive experiences and longer port stays, allowing guests to truly soak up the local culture and atmosphere.
• Regent Seven Seas Cruises
  Regent operates a fleet of 6 ships, with three sailing on European river itineraries, namely Seven Seas Navigator and Seven Seas Mariner. Departure points mainly include Southampton or Civitavecchia (Rome). Regent is celebrated for its all-inclusive luxury offerings, where guests enjoy exquisite amenities and dedicated service throughout their journey.

Consider These Alternative Regions for Your Next Cruise

If you’re intrigued by the idea of a river cruise but are exploring other options, consider these regions:

• Danube River: Experience the charm of multiple countries as you flow between major cities like Vienna and Budapest. The Danube offers breathtaking views, rich history, and opportunities to try local cuisines across a variety of cultures.
• Rhine River: Famous for its picturesque castles and charming towns, sailing along the Rhine is a treat for history enthusiasts and wine lovers alike. Stopping at cities such as Cologne and Rüdesheim provides great visual and culinary experiences!
• Seine River: The Seine offers a delightful journey through the heart of France. With stops in iconic cities like Paris and Rouen, you’ll enjoy stunning riverbank views while being immersed in French history and culture.
• Loire River: Known for its exquisite châteaux, cruising the Loire is ideal for travelers seeking a blend of fascinating architecture and natural beauty. You’ll have the opportunity to explore charming villages and historic estates along the way!
• Douro River: Sail through the stunning vineyards of Portugal on the Douro River. This region is a wonderful choice for wine lovers, as you visit world-renowned port wineries and soak in the breathtaking terraced landscapes.

The European rivers offer a splendid blend of culture, charm, and breathtaking scenery, making it the perfect choice for your next cruise adventure with CruiseAway. Set the course for unforgettable memories today!