When it comes to river cruising, Europe has an abundance of choice along its many varied waterways. So where should you start when picking the right cruise for you?
Exploring Europe by river remains a popular and cost-effective way to see its vast countryside, historic towns and incredible sights. Cruise Passenger conducted a price comparison, and you’ll be surprised to note that a journey by river will save you almost $13,000 compared to a similar itinerary on land.
There’s also a bounty of new ships, new destinations, new itineraries and more themed cruises than you can imagine – think golf holidays, Christmas markets, women’s only cruises and everything in between.
The saying goes that you unpack only once on a river cruise, so we’ve unpacked all the details on choosing the right one, once and for all.
But first, the basics.
European river cruising is different to ocean voyages
Most European river cruise itineraries are around 7-8 days and include visiting about three countries. They often commence in big cities such as Paris, Amsterdam or Budapest, and include an overnight stay onboard. Cruise companies also often offer a pre-or-post night’s stay in these highly-sought after cities, as noted on Cruise Critic.
Unlike ocean voyages which include ‘sea days’, river cruises are packed to the brim with excursions and make the most of travelling overnight for guests to wake up to a new destination each morning.
Most river ships are the same size, apart from one
To physically fit on some of Europe’s most popular waterways’ locks and low bridges, ships need to be roughly the same size. The only exception is AmaWaterways’ AmaMagna – the widest river cruise ship in the world, but it can only sail on the Danube due to its size. It’s been so popular; the company are launching a second sister ship of equal proportions next year.
However, how the ship is configured ranges as well. Some ships have bigger room sizes, more dining options and onboard facilities range from ship to ship. Plus, what’s included on your cruise will vary from
Main, Moselle and Rhine Rivers
If its historic architecture you’re after, look no further than the Rhine river. Featuring more castles than any other river, passengers will enjoy the perfect vantage point to view these historic buildings.
The Rhine river passes across some of the most historic cities in Germany, while the lesser-known Moselle, which spreads across northeast France and Luxembourg and connects to the Rhine. The Main river flows into the Rhine from east Germany and ends in the Main-Danube Canal.
The Rhine’s most popular cruises include sailings between Amsterdam and Basel, taking in medieval towns, fairytale castles and stunning landscapes.
The Danube
The Danube River is probably the most popular of Europe’s rivers when it comes to river cruising. Spanning from Germany to the Black Sea, it’s also Europe’s longest non-Russian river, and touches ten countries including Austria, Croatia, Germany, and Slovakia.
Cruisers can enjoy sailing along riverside capitals like Vienna, Bratislava, Belgrade and Budapest, as well as cities including Dürnstein and Melk.
Cruising the Danube can be almost year-round. For those that prefer travelling during shoulder seasons and off-peak, the Danube is the perfect choice.
Rhone River
Foodies and wine lovers should look no further than the Rhone river. Sailing through Provence and Burgandy, widely known as gastronomic regions in France, it’s also the two top wine-making regions, Cruise Critic reports.
Cruises take in a number of vineyards giving guests ample opportunities to savour local produce.
Seine River
The Seine river has been in the spotlight in recent times, with the Olympics being held in Paris this year (2024). Travelling right through the heart of Paris, Seine river cruises provide an immersive experience as you meander through painted landscapes, seaside villages and historic towns.
The Seine flows north through Paris into Normandy and is one for historic war buffs. Along the Seine expect to pass Monet’s garden in Giverny, wartime cemeteries and the Normandy landing beaches, to name a few hot items on a typical itinerary.
Douro River
The Douro has risen in popularity for river cruise companies in recent, debuting more new ships in Portugal as visitor numbers climb.
This once-upon-a-time hidden gem of a river is great for wine-lovers, people who are interested in ancient architecture and those that prefer to go off the beaten track and escape the larger crowds of the Danube and Seine.
The Douro is also likely to be a bit hotter than its neighbouring ports, and most sailings have to take place in the day, so guests are able take in the stunning landscapes lining the river.
There you have it, the most popular rivers of Europe and what you can expect to see on a sailing. Which one will you choose?
