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Europe River Cruises

View All 918 River Cruises
Embark on a river cruise along the waterways of Europe. Choose from river cruise itineraries that take in the Rhine, Rhône, Danube, Seine and Douro rivers. Discover all-inclusive river cruises from the world’s leading river cruise operators. Marvel at ancient castles in the Rhine Valley, the Dutch tulip fields in springtime, and countryside and vineyards of France and the Douro in Portugal.

Popular River Cruises View all

Magnificent Europe

15 Days Amsterdam to Budapest

Operator: Avalon River Cruises

From 6,572
Save 1,189
Romantic Rhine

8 Days Amsterdam to Basel

Operator: Avalon River Cruises

From 2,413
Save 1,317
Magnificent Rivers of Europe

16 or 15 Days Budapest to Amsterdam

Operator: Avalon River Cruises

From 6,572
Save 1,189
Romantic Rhine

8 Days Basel to Amsterdam

Operator: Avalon River Cruises

From 2,752
Save 1,078

Latest River Cruise Deals View all

independence day sale
independence day sale

Bonus Savings plus 2 for 1 Fares + Free Air + Complimentary Flexible Booking Plan for all new river & luxury yacht cruise bookings. Conditions apply.

START OF SUMMER SALE
START OF SUMMER SALE

Explore Europe in style with Amadeus River Cruises and save 25% off select sailings on 2025 departures through to October.

complimentary land package offer
complimentary land package offer

Enhance your 2025-26 European river cruise with a complimentary 2 - 4 night land package either before or after your river cruise. Offer ends 30 Jun 2025.

Explore Europe's Rivers View all

All Europe's Rivers )
All Europe's Rivers
Bordeaux River Cruises)
Bordeaux
Danube River River Cruises)
Danube River
Douro River River Cruises)
Douro River
Elbe River River Cruises)
Elbe River
Holland & Belgium River Cruises)
Holland & Belgium
Main River River Cruises)
Main River
Moselle River River Cruises)
Moselle River
Rhine River River Cruises)
Rhine River
Rhône River River Cruises)
Rhône River
Saône River River Cruises)
Saône River
Seine & Normandy River Cruises)
Seine & Normandy
The Rivers of Europe

Featured River Cruise OperatorsFeatured Operators View all

Trafalgar
Trafalgar
 (975) Reviews
We are the world’s leading and most awarded travel brand spanning all 7 continents of the globe. From the iconic to the unexpected our guests connect to...more the real depth of the places we go. They will break bread with the locals at our exclusive Be My Guest experiences and unlock local secrets of our Travel Directors and Local Specialists. Everything is taken care of, so they travel with true ease and get the real thing without worrying about a thing. We consider how we can positively impact the communities we engage with. Through our JoinTrafalgar initiatives powered by TreadRight, guests don’t just leave footprints on the ground, but leave a lasting legacy for the betterment of locals and the future of their communities. It’s 72 years of destination experience and feedback from over 5 million happy guests that fuels our innovation to continually delivery simply the best holidays.
Europe Rivers3,557
Budget:Premium
Accommodation:4 Star
Scenic
Scenic
 (83) Reviews
With Scenic, it’s more than a 5-star river cruise...it’s a seamless journey from start to finish that places you, our guest, at the heart of everything...more we do. It’s taking you to extraordinary regions and immersing you in meaningful and enriching experiences. It’s exquisite cuisine, indulgent wellness, and a world-class team who will anticipate your every need. You'll find the difference is in the details with Scenic: the innovative ship design, expertly trained crew, immersive journey, and an unrivalled focus on health and safety protocols.
Europe Rivers1,072
Budget:Premium & Luxury
Known For:Luxury Cruising
Fleet Size:14
Viking
Viking
 (109) Reviews
A Viking river cruise is the discerning traveller’s dream. Whether you choose to visit Egypt, Asia, Europe or the Mississippi, our itineraries are designed...more to immerse you in the history and culture of each destination. With us, you could be exploring a local food market with our head chef one day and experiencing an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of a world-famous museum the next. Our state-of-the-art ships take you right into the heart of each destination, and you won’t find any kids or ‘nickel and diming’ on board. In fact, our fares include everything you need - from meals, beverages and Wi-Fi to a culturally enriching shore excursion at every port of call. This unique combination of features has become affectionately known as ‘the Viking difference’. Viking has 70 award-winning river ships sailing all over the world, and we can’t wait to welcome you on board to discover the Viking difference for yourself.
Europe Rivers4,974
Budget:Premium
Known For:Scandinavian Design
Fleet Size:86

Discover Must do experiences and highlights on a Europe river cruise

The Elegant Elbe

The Elegant Elbe

Are you a seasoned river cruiser? Don't forget the River Elbe rising in the Giant Mountains of the northern Czech Republic before traversing Bohemia, Germany and flowing into the North Sea.

The Reds of Bordeaux

The Reds of Bordeaux

Take a cycling trip to explore the picturesque Medoc region, stopping to taste the local reds from the finest French region for red wine.

Experience a Quinta

Experience a Quinta

Take the chance to spend a relaxing day at a traditional vineyard in Portugal – tasting the Port wine for which the region is famous.

Castles by the Rhine Gorge

Castles by the Rhine Gorge

Head to the sundeck as you leave Rudesheim and enters the narrows of the World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge. Spot the 40 castles and fortresses atop the high cliffs as you glide toward Koblenz.

The Lights of Budapest

The Lights of Budapest

Feel romance on the Danube as you set sail from Budapest en route to Amsterdam, farewelled by the golden lights that lace the Parliament Building on the riverbank. A magical moment on your European river cruise.

Recent Europe River Cruise Reviews What our clients are saying about their journeys the rivers of Europe

Wonderful cruise on the Douro with time in Lisbon     , TAS, Australia, May 2025
This is our fourth river cruise with Emerald and once again, we could not speak more highly of them. And while the others have been excellent, the Douro is definitely the most most beautiful. There were lots of activities and performances, with top food and staff. We were disappointed that the archeological excursion did not attract enough people for ...read more it to run. Fortunately the bike ride did run but it was expensive, which put people off. We love the casual atmosphere aboard the Emerald cruises, but that does not compromise the professional approach to everything- from the cabin to the table. Portugal is a great place to visit and Emerald made it very easy to do so.
2025 River Cruise   , VIC, Australia, May 2025
Travelmarvel’s Amsterdam to Budapest was excellent. The ships were very well presented, cabins had good facilities, staff were very friendly and provided great service, quality meals and the tour director on our cruise ( Roland) was excellent. He provided great communications on each days activities, suggestions on extra things to do and was exceptionally ...read more approachable for all passengers. Overall this cruise was great value for money. We couldn’t fault any aspect of the cruise, the staff or the service.
Beautiful and relaxing Cruise   , Vic, Australia, May 2025
We loved this Viking river cruise down the Seine. The ship was docked just near the Eiffel Tower making it easy to see the highlights of Paris. Monet’s Garden tour was amazing. We were truly spoilt on the cruise with beautiful food and lovely lounges to sit and meet other people. There was a variety of different music to enjoy. Staff were lovely.
Scenic South of France river cruise   , NSW, Australia, May 2025
We were very impressed with Scenic & would definitely travel with them again. All staff were excellent, professional as well as fun. The cabin was well designed with ample storage space. The meals were first class. It was fabulous to have great “freedom of choice” options & we really enjoyed the ones we chose. Entertainment was mostly good, bearing ...read more in mind we all have different tastes. Excellent coordination of disembarkation.

Explore More Explore more Your guide to the river cruising through Europe

Seven Dining Experiences You'll Love

29 May, 2025

Seven Dining Experiences You'll Love

Dining lies at the heart of life aboard APT’s new-generation river ships, Solara and Ostara. Across six distinctive venues – plus indulgent in-suite service – every menu celebrates the seasons and the regions you sail through, ensuring each bite feels authentically European. “We created each...

Travel Advice Regarding Europe Floods

01 September, 2024

Travel Advice Regarding Europe Floods

High Water Levels Impact European River Cruises: What You Need to Know Planning a river cruise through Europe or about to embark on one? Recent flooding has affected several cruise itineraries on the Danube and Rhine rivers. Here's a summary of the situation and how it might affect your...

Celebrate France! Lyon: Gastronomic Capital of the World

09 July, 2024

Celebrate France! Lyon: Gastronomic Capital of the World

To celebrate France Month, Scenic is shining a spotlight on their collection of luxury France river cruises. Not only do these itineraries explore the rich history and culture of each region, they focus on the gastronomic excellence just waiting to be experienced by guests, onboard and ashore....

Visit Portugal: Highlights of Douro River Cruising

20 February, 2024

Visit Portugal: Highlights of Douro River Cruising

The Douro River runs through northern Portugal and into Spain, with river cruises typically sailing to and from Porto, with the option of city stays either side of the cruise. These stays often include time in either Lisbon, Madrid and even Barcelona. For guests embarking on a river cruise,...

Common Questions Common questions about river cruising in Europe

What is the best month for a European river cruise?
The European River cruising season runs from March to December. Springtime (Mar, Apr and May) can be a little cooler but the perfect time to experience stunning spring flowers and landscapes. Spring deals can also mean cheaper prices in those early months. Mid May to Mid September is peak season, so expect fares...read more to be a little higher. The summer months of July and August are hotter and busier but enjoy long, warm summer evenings to really immerse yourself in the local lifestyle and culture.

September and October are popular months as summer crowds have gone and daytime temperatures are still warm enough to explore and enjoy autumnal colours along the river. Prices become more competitive towards the end of autumn and into December making it a great time to make savings, wrap up warm and enjoy some retail therapy at the magical Christmas markets.
Which European river cruise is best?
If you’re new to river cruising, many test the water with a shorter river cruise. A one-week Rhine cruise from ...read more class="u-link" href="/river-cruises/from-amsterdam-to-basel" class="u-link">Amsterdam to Basel (or vice versa) is one of the most popular choices taking in medieval churches, castles, vineyards and charming, picturesque landscapes. Stops are included at city highlights and famous landmarks where sightseeing excursions are often included but optional.

For those wanting to see as much as possible, try a two-week itinerary that combines the Rhine, Main and Danube. Cruising the Rhine-Main-Danube canal takes you from beautiful Amsterdam through the castles and picturesque towns of Germany and into Austria, Slovakia and Hungary highlighting wonderful cities such as Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest. We've put together a list of 10 Best European River Cruisesfor you to consider.
Why is the Danube so popular?
The Danube is the second longest river in Europe and flows through 10 countries from the Black Forest to the Black Sea offering some of the most enchanting and captivating scenery in Europe. It's size means that itineraries vary in length and can be as short as 4 days taking in a few key countries and cities -...read more perfect for those on a strict schedule or looking to try out a river cruise for the first time. Longer itineraries of 14 days or more offer an in depth view of the many small towns, big cities and scenic landscapes along the river and often visit quieter stretches of the Danube known for their rich scenery and wildlife.
What should I pack for my European River Cruises?
This will depend on the season you are travelling, but the good news is that river cruising is all about being relaxed. Comfort is key and the focus is definitely on ensuring you're suitably attired for daily activities and exploring.  Layers will work for any cooler evenings and a rain coat is great protection...read more for rainy or windy days . Comfortable walking shoes are a must as is a small, secure day bag that you can take with you on your excursions. River cruises tend not to have formal gala nights so no need for serious evening wear - smart-casual is the way to go. Cabin storage may not be huge so packing light will mean your luggage won't take up all the space. Don't forget a European power adapter and your phone, camera or tablet to keep friends and family up to date on your adventures.
What activities are there on a European river cruise?
Your European river cruise will usually include a shore excursion at each port. River cruising enables you to reach those destinations that may be less accessible to coach tours and ocean cruises such as right in the heart of a city so shore excursions are mostly cultural or educational in nature. Many operators...read more offer more exclusive or in depth explorations of regional areas or sites of interest at extra cost. On shore activities may depend on the size of the city or destination and the length of stay at that particular location. Many river cruises carry bikes on board that can be hired for you to explore an area at your own pace. On board, some river ships have fitness studios, spas and pools and offer yoga or other group fitness options.
Why is European river cruising so popular?
A big plus for river cruising in Europe is that you have to unpack once on arrival and then you can focus on enjoying your holiday. Getting from one destination in Europe to another can be a logistical challenge for some and as much of the cruising is done at night while you sleep, you simply wake up at your new...read more destination ready to explore. Ships are like floating hotels and offer luxury cabins, first class dining and sumptuous lounges and because of their small size, never feel overcrowded. Most European rivers have been important thoroughfares for centuries so destinations as well as being beautifully scenic, stops are often at iconic towns and cities. Check our 10 reasons to take a European river cruise for more information.

Europe River Cruises

Austria River Cruises Belgium River Cruises Bordeaux River Cruises Czech Republic River Cruises Danube River Cruises Douro River Cruises Elbe River Cruises England River Cruises Europe River Cruises France River Cruises Germany River Cruises Holland & Belgium River Cruises Holland River Cruises Hungary River Cruises Italy River Cruises Luxembourg River Cruises Main River Cruises Moselle River Cruises Nile River Cruises Rhine River Cruises Rhône River Cruises Saône River Cruises Seine & Normandy River Cruises Slovakia River Cruises Spain River Cruises Switzerland River Cruises

Travel Styles

Christmas Markets Family Holidays Festivals & Events Festive River Cruises Food & Wine River Cruises Winter Tours & Trips

Cities

Amsterdam Arles Basel Bordeaux Brussels Budapest Cologne Frankfurt Lisbon Lyon Madrid Munich Nice Nuremberg Paris Passau Porto Prague Vienna Vilshofen Zurich

Routes

River Cruises from Amsterdam to Amsterdam River Cruises from Amsterdam to Budapest River Cruises from Amsterdam to Zurich River Cruises from Amsterdam to Basel River Cruises from Basel to Amsterdam River Cruises from Bucharest to Amsterdam River Cruises from Bucharest to Budapest River Cruises from Budapest to Amsterdam River Cruises from Budapest to Munich River Cruises from Budapest to Nuremberg River Cruises from Budapest to Vilshofen River Cruises from Budapest to Bucharest River Cruises from Budapest to Prague River Cruises from Cologne to Cologne River Cruises from Lisbon to Porto River Cruises from Munich to Budapest River Cruises from Nuremberg to Budapest River Cruises from Paris to Prague River Cruises from Paris to Paris River Cruises from Paris to Bordeaux River Cruises from Passau to Passau River Cruises from Porto to Porto River Cruises from Prague to Paris River Cruises from Prague to Amsterdam River Cruises from Prague to Budapest River Cruises from Vilshofen to Budapest River Cruises from Zurich to Amsterdam

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