The best river cruises in Europe offer stunning scenery, rich history, and luxurious experiences. Here are eight of the best river cruises, covering rivers from the Douro to the Danube:
1. Douro River Cruise (Portugal)
- Cruise Line: Viking River Cruises
- Highlights: Explore the Douro Valley's famous wine region, visit the historic cities of Porto and Salamanca, and enjoy the beautiful terraced vineyards and charming villages along the river.
2. Danube River Cruise (Germany, Austria, Hungary, Slovakia)
- Cruise Line: AmaWaterways
- Highlights: Sail from Germany to Hungary, passing through Austria and Slovakia. Visit iconic cities like Vienna, Budapest, and Bratislava, explore medieval castles, and enjoy world-class music and cuisine.
3. Rhine River Cruise (Germany, France, Netherlands, Switzerland)
- Cruise Line: Emerald River Cruises
- Highlights: Travel from Amsterdam to Basel, visiting Cologne, Strasbourg, and the Rhine Gorge with its stunning castles and vineyards.
4. Seine River Cruise (France)
- Cruise Line: Avalon Waterways
- Highlights: Explore Paris, visit the historic Normandy beaches, and enjoy picturesque landscapes and charming towns like Giverny and Rouen.
5. Rhone River Cruise (France)
- Cruise Line: Scenic
- Highlights: Sail from Lyon to the Mediterranean, exploring Provence's lavender fields, historic Avignon, and the culinary delights of Lyon.
6. Elbe River Cruise (Germany, Czech Republic)
- Cruise Line: Viking River Cruises
- Highlights: Journey from Berlin to Prague, visiting Dresden's baroque architecture, the sandstone cliffs of Saxon Switzerland, and the historic towns along the way.
7. Main River Cruise (Germany)
- Cruise Line: AmaWaterways
- Highlights: Discover the heart of Germany, sailing from Frankfurt to Nuremberg. Visit medieval towns, enjoy local beer and wine, and explore UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
8. Moselle River Cruise (Germany, Luxembourg, France)
- Cruise Line: Avalon Waterways
- Highlights: Sail through the scenic Moselle Valley, known for its steep vineyards and charming villages. Visit Trier, the oldest city in Germany, and the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg.
These cruises offer a mix of cultural experiences, scenic beauty, and luxurious accommodations, making them some of the best options for exploring Europe's rivers.
