river cruises ratings europe

9 best river cruises in Europe

River cruising in Europe is one of those delightfully slow and easy modes of travel. You're in a small floating hotel, gliding past castles, vineyards and scenery that changes by the hour as you explore calm inland waters.

Daily guided walking tours and other excursions provided by the river line take you to key UNESCO World Heritage Sites and other city and village attractions you've come to see. Or, you can choose to explore on your own, which is easy since your ship often will dock right in town.

Lazy afternoons on the ship afford the time to sit in a lounge chair and watch the world go by — kids swimming from the riverbanks, farmers tending their crops, river birds flapping their wings — as you glide to your next destination.

Which European river should you explore? The choices are broader than you might expect.

The main rivers in Europe are the Danube and the Rhine and their tributaries. They are, by far, the most popular, doable either on one-week segments or longer itineraries that combine areas and sometimes combine rivers. Even if your cruise is only a week, don't underestimate the allure of relaxing for seven days on a river in France or on the dreamy Douro in Portugal.

Here are the best river cruises in Europe.

Upper Danube

When it comes to Europe river cruises, the Upper Danube is a perfect seven-night starter sailing. It takes you through centuries of history as you explore Germany, Austria, Slovakia and Hungary.

Ships visit such cultural hubs as Vienna, with its opera house, art museums and elaborate royal palaces, and Budapest, Hungary, with its magnificent architecture and modern vibe. If your ship passes the Hungarian Parliament Building at night, you're in for a treat; magnificently lit, it's one of the most photographed sights on the river.

Along the route between Melk and Krems in Austria, you cruise through the Wachau Valley, a key wine-growing region producing rieslings and gruner veltliners, with sipping opportunities available. It's also a great place to bike, which is why it's nice to sail with lines such as AmaWaterways that carry bikes on board for passengers to use.

You might also have the option of a side trip to Salzburg, Austria, the birthplace of Mozart — and also where several scenes for the movie "The Sound of Music" were filmed. A surprise for many is Old Town Bratislava, Slovakia, which might not have been on your must-do list but charms with its beer culture and castles.

Related: Best river cruise lines around the world

Lower Danube

For a deep dive into Eastern Europe's past and present, the fascinating Lower Danube route between Budapest and Bucharest, Romania, explores history from the medieval times and Victorian era of Dracula to the rise of communism and the Bosnian War.

The seven-night river cruise takes you through Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria and Romania. The most beautiful stretch of the river is a 62-mile passage through a gorge between the Balkan and Carpathian Mountains. It's also one of the deepest stretches of river in the world.

Other sights accessed during shore excursions via bus include Bulgaria's Belogradchik Rocks, which are naturally carved towering red rock pinnacles that appear to take forms such as "Madonna with child," and Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria's stunning medieval capital.

Related: I thought river cruises were just for retirees, but a Disney river cruise proved me wrong

When it comes to top cruising rivers in Europe, the Rhine wins for natural beauty and fairy-tale landscapes. A cruise on the river between Amsterdam and Basel, Switzerland — a typical one-week route — takes you past expanses of slope-side vineyards, forests and mountains; historic cities; and medieval half-timbered villages.

That's even before you get to the Upper Middle Rhine Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This 40-mile stretch of river, between Rudesheim am Rhein and Koblenz, Germany, has castles galore — you might imagine Rapunzel letting down her hair — and Lorelei, the legendary slate rock said to distract sailors with the mesmerizing song of a maiden.

The French city of Strasbourg, with its famous Gothic cathedral and robust Alsatian culinary scene, is often a favorite stop on Rhine itineraries. Other highlights include Heidelberg, Germany, and its imposing castle.

Related: Christmas market river cruises: What to expect on a holiday sailing

Sure, you can catch sight of the Eiffel Tower when boarding a river ship in Paris, but you can do that while staying in a hotel, too. The real highlights of a Seine cruise are sailing on the river outside the city toward the English Channel and a visit to the beaches in Normandy, France, for a perspective on World War II.

Your visit there and to the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial, as well as other memorials and monuments to the fallen, is a poignant experience (one that requires a two-hour bus ride from your ship, however). Avalon Waterways brings a World War II expert on board to add insight on select sailings.

Other treasures exist along the Seine, not the least of which is Giverny, France, the home and gardens of impressionist artist Claude Monet. If you are a fan of his art, much of the property might seem familiar.

In historic Rouen, France, where Joan of Arc was martyred in the Middle Ages, stop by Rouen Cathedral (another subject of Monet) before losing yourself on cobblestone streets with wonderful cafes.

Related: River cruise packing list: What to pack when traveling by riverboat

Bordeaux river cruises are different from other water routes because you explore two short waterways — the Dordogne and Garonne rivers — and the Gironde estuary in southwest France.

You'll spend more time ashore than floating down the river on this itinerary, with your ship docked for two nights in the city of Bordeaux, France, a miniature Paris with grand 18th-century buildings. Who cares when you are in the epicenter of French culture in one of the most celebrated wine regions in the world?

Bordeaux serves up the opportunity to sip Medoc, Margaux, Saint Emilion, Pomerol and Sauternes wines as you expand your wine education. You'll visit vineyards and gorgeous chateaus. Your cruise line might even host a dinner at a wine estate one evening. If you plan your cruise for September or October, you'll be able to admire the grape harvest.

Related: The 5 best cruise lines for solo travelers

Rhone and Saone

Another must for wine lovers is exploring the interior of France, sipping Cotes du Rhone in famous wine-making regions such as Hermitage and Chateauneuf-du-Pape in Provence and Beaune in Burgundy.

Rhone and Saone river cruises typically sail between Lyon and Arles or Avignon, and they're top-loaded with such nonwine attractions as the Roman aqueduct Pont du Gard and the Roman Arles Amphitheater, as well as the massive Palais des Papes (Papal Palace) in Avignon. You'll also be able to take in the lavender fields, haystacks and other scenes that inspired painters like Paul Cézanne and Vincent van Gogh.

Related: 4 luxury river cruises on wow-worthy itineraries

For a lazy, dreamy, wonderful river cruise experience, nothing quite beats exploring the wine regions of Portugal on the Douro, one of the major rivers through the Iberian Peninsula. The home base for these river cruises is Porto, Portugal, with its historic city center, spectacular bridges and port houses.

On one-week cruises, you'll follow the river 130 miles past green hillside vineyards in the Douro River Valley, a UNESCO-recognized destination, before turning around at the Spanish border. The river cruises typically include a visit to the university town of Salamanca in northern Spain. Viticulture is very much the lesson en route, as you learn about port production on the "River of Gold."

Related: My latest river cruise adventure included kayaking, biking and hiking — here's how yours can, too

Due to fluctuating water levels and narrow passages, the Elbe is a challenging river that runs 680 miles between the Czech Republic and Germany. Historically, it formed part of the border between East Germany and West Germany.

River cruising here is a rare experience. Viking is one of the few lines that visits (another is the French line CroisiEurope), offering 10-day itineraries that combine hotel stays in the cities of Berlin and Prague with a stretch of river between Prague and Wittenburg, Germany.

The cruises are on ships built specifically for the Elbe route. They stop in places such as resurgent Dresden, heavily bombed during World War II but expertly rebuilt; the Saxon Switzerland region of Germany with its striking sandstone rock formations; and the spa town of Bad Schandau.

Related: Are European river cruises right for families? Here are the pros, cons and best options for kids

The Po in northern Italy is tidal, making it another challenging waterway. But where else can you easily combine a visit to Venice, Italy, with a river cruise? Uniworld Boutique River Cruises does the Po in high style with its 126-passenger S.S. La Venezia, completely decked out with a sense of place, from Fortuny fabrics and Murano glass to its gilded accents.

The one-week route doesn't take you far but does include the walled city of Padua, the charming fishing village of Chioggia and Murano, home of renowned glassblowing artisans.

For those looking for a longer experience, Uniworld cleverly combines a Po cruise with luxury rail journeys to countries like Turkey and Switzerland.

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The Best River Cruises In All Of Europe, According To Reviews

Travelers looking to experience a destination usually keep away from ocean cruises, as these massive ships holding thousands of people make it difficult to see the best of a place, so most of what they see is the cruise's deck and buffet line. That's fine for relaxation, but not so great for true exploring. However, that's not the same for river cruises. River cruises offer the best parts of ocean cruises — like easy boarding, inclusive experiences, a crowd of people eager to meet others, and great food — combined with the benefits of a travel-ambitious trip. If you aren't sure  which type of cruise is best for you , it might be time to give the river a chance.

River cruises offer an array of excursions to choose from, so tourgoers can create their own customized trip. As the ship sails, you'll have the opportunity to experience small villages that otherwise wouldn't make it to your itinerary. That's what intrepid adventurers will find on these European adventures, which are undoubtedly some of the best river cruises in the world . Although the river cruise marketplace is a big one, these cruises offer interesting itineraries with one-of-a-kind experiences, excellent value, and high-end accommodations. Let's get started.

AmaWaterway - Taste of Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a beautiful epicenter of food, wine, and gastronomic excellence, and that's exactly what cruisers will see — and taste — if they embark on AmaWaterways' seven-day Taste of Bordeaux cruise that travels both the Garonne and Dordogne rivers. The trip heads through Bordeaux, Libourne, Blaye, Bourg, Cadillac, and Cussac Fort Médoc, and other cities (such as San Sebastián and Bilbao in neighboring Spain) can also be added. On the journey, travelers can expect to hike a vineyard in Libourne, take a tour of a 17th-century citadel recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, visit a medieval castle that looks largely untouched despite its long history, and, of course, taste plenty of Bordeaux wine. Perhaps the best part of this cruise is its ability to customize, as travelers can choose which excursion they would like to do nearly every day.

The Taste of Bordeaux cruise, which starts at $3,700, earned 4.5 stars on Cruise Critic . One previous customer said, "The only way to describe it is 'marvelous.' The itinerary is filled with great moments. The chateaus, the wine tastings, the scenery." Visitors see the Bordeaux region from the AmaDolce ship, which is specifically tailored to the Taste of Bordeaux cruise with its red-colored lounge as a nod to red wine, a cozy, wood bar perfect for enjoying a glass after a long day, and a chef's table restaurant ideal for bringing French flavors to life.

APT - Magnificent Europe

There's no more efficient way to see the best that this European region has to offer than to take APT's Magnificent Europe cruise, which ventures to 14 destinations along the Rhine and Danube rivers. On this trip, you'll venture to world-famous locales such as Amsterdam, Salzburg, Budapest, Bratislava, Vienna, and many more. The 15-day trip can even be extended further to Prague, making for a total of 19 cities and six countries. No matter which you choose, European charm and excitement await, as most of these cities offer a selection of several excursions such as a gondola ride in Rüdesheim, a visit to Namedy Castle in Andernach, an exploration of Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna, and a tour of Budapest's many iconic sights, making this cruise the perfect way to admire the beauty of Hungarian capital .

APT has secured several exclusive experiences that only river cruise guests get to enjoy, such as a special "Sound of Music" performance in Salzburg and a private classical concert in Vienna. With all that it has to offer, the trip netted 4.8 stars on Global Journeys , with reviews from nearly 60 customers. "So many wonderful things about this cruise," said one tourgoer. "Some fantastic sights that you stop and see along the way. Highly recommend this to anyone young or old."

A-Rosa Cruises - Seine Culinary Highlights

If you're a wine and food connoisseur, then there's no better way to taste and drink your way along the Seine River than with A-Rosa Cruises' Seine Culinary Highlights tour, an eight-day cruise that starts at 2,047 euros ($2,234) and ventures to Paris, Vernon, Rouen, Les Andelys, and Caudebec-en-Caux. Foodies will enjoy two wine tastings prepared by French winemakers, a cheese and oyster tasting paired with wines, a cider tasting, and more. Don't worry; you'll still get to explore the must-see sights of the area when you're not sitting down with a glass.

Tourists can add on excursions of their choice for additional costs, such as a visit to Claude Monet's Giverny home, an evening at a Parisian cabaret in Paradis Latin (which has a stage designed by the same man who designed the Eiffel Tower), an exploration of the City of Light's famed art district Montmartre, and a bike ride through Normandy. No matter which excursions or packages you choose, you'll always have free access to e-bikes, Wi-Fi, the ship's sauna and gym, room service, and drinks and meal buffets. On TourRadar, the cruise earned 4.1 stars through more than 60 reviews.

Avalon Waterways - Active & Discovery on the Rhône

Avalon Waterways' Active & Discovery cruises are designed to take tourgoers off the beaten path and immerse them in travel experiences, and there is plenty of magic waiting on the company's eight-day Rhône cruise that travels to cities such as Lyon, Avignon, Arles, Port-Saint-Louis, and more, for as low as $4,400. Travelers can enjoy one-of-a-kind activities like a tour of public and private terraces of Lyon for amazing panoramic views, a wine tasting inside a cave in the Gorges de l'Ardèche, a demonstration on how essential oils are made inside a Provençal farmhouse, and a class on how to paint in the style of Vincent van Gogh. They can also choose from several excursions each day, creating an individually tailored itinerary for each guest.

The activities will take place in an intimately-sized group, as the ship — the Avalon Poetry II — has just 52 suites and 12 staterooms. Visitors can choose from luxury 200-square-foot suites with panoramic views, floor-to-ceiling windows, and delightful balconies, so you can breathe in the Rhône River air whenever you desire. One previous traveler shared that the Avalon Waterways' Active & Discovery on the Rhône cruise was the best river cruise she had ever done, writing on Solo Traveler that "The trip was well paced with excursions that were included in the price of the cruise every morning. I was impressed with the values demonstrated by Avalon Waterways and staff."

CroisiEurope - Hamburg to Berlin: Discover The Medieval Charms of Hanseatic Cities

If value is what you're after, then you won't find a better river cruise than CroisiEurope's seven-day Hamburg to Berlin: Discover The Medieval Charms of Hanseatic Cities , which starts at just $1,776 per person. From the MS Elbe Princesse, which has an ambiance that mirrors that of Northern Europe, just 77 passengers can see all that the region has to offer through oversized windows, French balconies, panoramic views, and a sun deck. The view is just the beginning, as tourgoers will explore Berlin, Brandenberg, Magdeburg, Wolfsburg, and Hamburg (among others) up-close on the Elbe River, one of the most important waterways on the continent.

In these famous cities, patrons will enjoy activities like admiring Frederick the Great's former home and garden at Sanssouci Palace, exploring a German amusement park devoted to car innovation, touring Lüneburg, which looks much as it did in medieval times with its classic brick buildings, and taking a guided tour of Hamburg's market, stock exchange, and historic center. The tour has clearly impressed TourRadar  users, who give it 4.3 stars through more than 300 reviews. "A wonderful tour where the staff did all they could to make our experience memorable," said one tourgoer. "The food was amazing and the journey along the Rhine at Christmas something we shall never forget."

Emerald Cruises - Sensations of Lyons & Provence

Emerald Cruises' Sensations of Lyons & Provence tour winds through Southern France's Rhône and Saône rivers, taking visitors to Lyon, Tournon, Viviers, Avignon, Arles, Nice, and more, stopping for cheese, wine, and olive oil tastings, along with bike tours, and hikes. The trip starts at $3,245 and takes place aboard the Emerald Liberté, which features a three-floor atrium, a heated pool that transforms i­­­­nto a theater at night, and a variety of suites and cabins to accommodate 180 people. It's also home to Reflections Restaurant, where guests will enjoy their meals, including one presented by French chef Fabien Morreale spotlighting authentic Provençal flavors.

Besides highlighting the fine wine and cuisine that Southern France is known for, the cruise also brings the area's history and culture to life through excursions such as a tour of one of the oldest churches in the country, visits to several UNESCO World Heritage sites (including Roman monuments and the Palais des Papes), an onboard wine tasting featuring local brews, and a bike ride through the gorgeous French countryside. The cruise finishes with a stroll through Arles down the same paths that Vincent van Gogh once walked. The tour has garnered 4 stars on Cruise Critic through over 150 reviews, with customers remarking, "There was an inclusive excursion at every stop, with local top notch tour guides provided. Every town/city was interesting."

Lüftner Cruises - Saar & Moselle Fairytales

If you love wine and chocolate, you can't miss the chance to cruise the region famous for the two along the Rhine, Moselle, and Saar rivers. Lüftner Cruises' eight-day Saar & Moselle Fairytales river cruise will introduce travelers to the German cities of Cologne, Cochem, Saarburg, Saarlouis, Trier, and one of the smallest states on the continent — Luxembourg — all while exploring age-old vineyards, medieval castles, and historic churches aboard the Amadeus Brilliant. The trip starts at just 1,689 euros ($1,846) per person, making for a luxury trip at a great value. Vacationers can then add on excursion packages starting at 152 euros ($165) per person, which include everything from walking tours to chocolate tastings. Plus, excursions can be added on a la carte, so you can completely customize your Lüftner Cruises trip and stick to whichever excursions are best for your desired activity level and budget.

Tourgoers can choose from staterooms with French balconies and floor-to-ceiling glass doors from which to enjoy the German scenery. Once docked, they'll select excursions such as visiting Reichsburg Castle in Cochem, exploring a medieval market and home in Bernkastel-Kues, seeing a 60-foot waterfall in the middle of Saarburg's town center, and tasting German chocolates in Saarlouis. The trip earned 4.5 stars on TourRadar through more than 130 reviews, with comments such as, "A lovely experience! Relaxed ambience, very good cruise directors, wonderful cabin, friendly staff, superb food."

Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours - Delightful Douro with Madrid

The Douro River is the heartbeat that hums through the north of Portugal, and Scenic Luxury Cruises and Tours' Delightful Douro with Madrid river cruise takes explorers through the region via the largest river in the Iberian Peninsula. An 11-day trip that stops in Porto, Régua, Pinhâo, Pocinho, Barca d'Alva, and the Spanish capital of Madrid, this cruise gives tourists the time they need to fall in love with each destination. It all takes place aboard the Scenic Azure, an upscale ship that offers everything from oversized staterooms to suites with private balconies. As the ship can only accommodate up to 96 guests, it offers an intimate and personalized experience that is sure to leave you with newfound friends. There is one staff member for every two guests onboard, so you're bound to have the best customer service that a river cruise can offer.

Starting at $5,360 per person, Delightful Douro offers a range of excursions that suit every activity level and interest. That includes a private concert for river cruise guests at São Francisco Church in Porto, a visit to the charming village of Provesende, the chance to explore the Royal Palace of Madrid, and wine tastings at some of the region's many vineyards. According to TourRadar  users, the trip warrants 4.3 stars thanks to more than 30 positive reviews. Portugal should be on everyone's bucket list , and this cruise is a fabulous excuse to visit.

Tauck - Impressions from the Seine: Paris to Normandy

From the historic beaches of Normandy to the cultural mecca of Paris, there is much to see along the Seine River — and Tauck's Impressions from the Seine: Paris to Normandy gives cruisers a taste of it all. The eight-day cruise, which starts at about $5,000 per person, brings travelers to Versailles, Paris, Normandy, Rouen, Giverny, and Caudebec-en-Caux upon the 98-person ms Sapphire, known for its spacious cabins and suites, some with French balconies opening up to views of the Seine. A whopping 85% of the ship's suites have floor-to-ceiling windows, and 70% of the ship's cabins are 225 square feet or bigger. They even have walk-in closets, so it's easy to look the part for your day in the city, an important part of experiencing Paris like a Parisian . At mealtime, patrons will dine at The Compass Rose, the ms Sapphire onboard restaurant, or Arthur's, a casual onboard eatery.

Patrons will enjoy offerings unique to Tauck, like dining at a private château in Normandy and exploring Monet's former home and garden while no other tourists are present. Customers can also look forward to taking a tour of Louis XIV's Versailles, seeing Joan of Arc Square, and tasting cider and Calvados at a Normandy farm. The trip received 4.2 stars on Travelstride , and a traveler who took the cruise during the pandemic took to Tripadvisor to say that "Their local guides were very informative and highly personable."

Uniworld River Cruises - Enchanting Danube

The modern nations of Germany, Austria, Hungary, and Slovakia don't just comprise part of Central Europe — they also mark the center of important international history, all culminating around the Danube River. On Uniworld River Cruises' Enchanting Danube cruise, cruisers will learn this history from a front-seat view and receive local insight and unprecedented access, as the trip offers exclusive experiences like a private viewing of the Kunstkammer Vienna museum artworks. That's likely part of the reason that the cruise has garnered acclaim from reviewers on sites such as TourRadar , on which the cruise earned 4.7 stars. "An amazing holiday," said one reviewer, "Organization, staff, food and excursions were all wonderful and we will definitely book another cruise with Uniworld."

The Enchanting Danube cruise, which starts at $3,000 and lasts eight days with an option to extend one more day to Prague, heads to Budapest, Bratislava, Vienna, Dürnstein, Melk, Linz, and Passau. It includes all meals, unlimited drinks (including alcohol), excursions every day, and accommodations inside the S.S. Maria Theresa or the S.S. Beatrice. No matter which ship you take, both offer rooms with 100% Egyptian cotton sheets and a menu of pillow options. When you're not enjoying the room's luxuries, expect activities like a visit to Budapest's Franz Liszt Academy, a hike to beautiful Bratislava Castle, a wine tasting at the oldest winery in Austria, and a hike along the banks of the Ilz River.

Viking River Cruises - Portugal's River of Gold

Portugal is a mix of the old and the new, thanks to its happening restaurants and innovative art galleries that combine seamlessly with historic sites, traditional recipes, and unbeatable winemaking methods. On Viking River Cruises' 10-day Portugal's River of Gold cruise, which travels along the Douro River and also stops in Spain, patrons will see this Portuguese and Spanish culture in action from the view of a "baby longship." These ships are smaller than Viking's other ships because of Portuguese rules, but visitors can still enjoy features like Scandinavian-style décor and floor-to-ceiling views of the Douro River. The cruise garnered 4.4 stars on Cruise Critic with customers saying things like, "The only thing bad I can say was that it ended too soon." The cruise line is also one of the best for a romantic couples getaway, according to reviews . 

The $4,000 cruise takes patrons through Lisbon, the capital city of Portugal; Porto, the birthplace of Port wine and a spiritual epicenter; Pinhâo, a laid-back Portuguese village; Barca d'Alva, a river town near the Spanish border; and Salamanca, a Spanish city over the border that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Throughout the cruise's stops, visitors will head to Mateus Palace for a wine tasting, learn how Port wine is made, check out a medieval fortress, explore a sacred town and admire a Baroque-style chapel, and experience the "Golden Age of Discovery" at structures like the Jerónimos Monastery.

Methodology

With stunning rivers such as the Rhône, Seine, Danube, Douro, Elbe, and more, the European river cruise scene is a vast one, with countless companies and ships to choose from. We explored the market to determine the best of the best based on customer reviews (all of these cruises have more than 4 stars on river cruise review websites), itineraries (all offer busy itineraries with tons of options to suit any traveler), value, and luxury, as these all showcase high-end experiences to make your vacation memorable. Websites like Tripadvisor, Cruise Critic, TourRadar and more were used for further confirmation of quality.

The 10 best places to go on a river cruise in Europe 

Jun 7, 2024 • 8 min read

Appreciate the beautiful architecture of Budapest from the Danube © Sanga Park / Shutterstock

Cruising down a quiet, traffic-free river, surrounded by scenic riverfront views is an ideal way to see Europe . You can sip your wine while watching picture-perfect scenery breeze past – taking in castles, medieval villages and fields of flowers.

By necessity, European riverboats are small and passenger numbers are often fewer than 200, making these cruises a far more social and intimate experience. There’s also plenty to do and see onshore, and with more frequent stops you can enjoy more onshore activities. Cruise lines are now also offering more immersive learning experiences such as cooking classes and home visits, or activities like bicycle trips and long hikes. The hardest part is choosing where to go — which is why we've rounded up the 10 best places to go on a European river cruise. (Once you've chosen your cruise, check out our definitive cruise packing guide .)

1. Northern Rhine (Germany)

From gorgeous river meanders and noble German cities

The northern section of the Rhine features dramatic landscapes and a host of interesting towns. Cologne (Köln), Germany ’s fourth-largest city, offers numerous attractions starting with its famous cathedral, while Koblenz, at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers, is a park- and flower-filled delight. Heading south, the Rhine meanders between hillside castles and steep fields of wine-producing grapes. Idyllic villages appear around each bend, their half-timbered houses and Gothic steeples seemingly plucked from a fairy tale. Scarcely damaged during WWII, handsome Speyer is crowned by a magnificent Romanesque cathedral.

2. Southern Rhine (France, Germany & Switzerland)

Explore intriguing towns in this border land

The Southern Rhine forms the border between Germany and France before becoming Switzerland ’s northern frontier. Strasbourg is the perfect overture to all that is idiosyncratic about Alsace – walking a fine tightrope between France and Germany, between a medieval past and a progressive future. Further south, the Black Forest spills into Alsace in the German town of Breisach. Unsurprisingly, given its geographical and cultural proximity to France, the locals here have a passion for a good bottle of wine. Basel, at the juncture of the French, German and Swiss borders, is perhaps where Switzerland’s Franco-Germanic roots are most evident.

3. Rhône (France)

Indulge in gourmet experiences cruising the south of France

Commanding a strategic spot at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône Rivers, grand old Lyon is France’s gastronomic capital. Downstream, the Rhône forges past Vienne’s Roman ruins and the centuries-old Côtes du Rhône vineyards, opening to sunny vistas of fruit orchards, lavender fields and the distant Alps as it continues south. During the 14th century, the Provençal town of Avignon was the center of the Roman Catholic world. Its impressive legacy of ecclesiastical architecture most notably includes the soaring, World Heritage-listed Palais des Papes .

4. Western Danube (Austria & Germany)

Romantic landscapes in the heart of Europe

The baroque streetscapes and imperial palaces set the stage for Vienna ’s artistic and musical masterpieces alongside its coffee-house culture and vibrant epicurean and design scenes. Moving into Germany, the Danube gently winds its way to the Italianate city of Passau . Top billing in eastern Bavaria goes to Regensburg, a former capital and one of Germany’s prettiest and liveliest cities. Nuremberg (Nürnberg), Bavaria’s second-largest city and the unofficial capital of Franconia, is an energetic place with a history that ranges from undeclared capital of the Holy Roman Empire to the trials that judged Nazi war crimes.

5. Eastern Danube (Hungary & Serbia)

Travel a cross-section of Europe’s less-touristed east

The two great cities of this stretch of the Danube are the capitals of Hungary and Serbia respectively. Budapest has something for everyone – from dramatic history and flamboyant architecture to healing thermal waters. Outspoken, adventurous, proud and audacious: Belgrade ("White City") has a gritty exuberance and eclectic architecture making it one of Europe’s most happening cities today. While it hurtles towards a brighter future, its past unfolds before your eyes: socialist blocks are squeezed between art nouveau masterpieces and remnants of the Habsburg legacy contrast with Ottoman relics.

6. Douro (Portugal)

See spectacular terraced vineyards, the home of port wine

The Douro region, home to port wine, is simply one of the most glorious spots on earth. The Douro Valley showcases steep terraced vineyards carved into mountains, granite bluffs, whitewashed quintas (estates) and 18th-century wine cellars that draw visitors from around the world. Humble-yet-opulent Porto entices with its higgledy-piggledy medieval center, divine food and wine, and charismatic locals. Its charms are as subtle as the nuances of an aged tawny port, best savored slowly.

7. Elbe (Czech Republic & Germany)

A little-cruised but picturesque stretch of Central Europe

Covering the Czech Republic and a thick slice of eastern Germany, Elbe cruises are under-the-radar options. Prague , not on the Elbe but usually included on river cruises, contends with cities like Budapest and Paris in terms of beauty. Its maze of cobbled lanes and hidden courtyards is perfect for the aimless wanderer. The classic view of Dresden from the Elbe’s northern bank takes in spires, towers and domes belonging to palaces, churches and stately buildings: hard to believe that the city was all but wiped off the map by Allied bombings in 1945. While the city of Wittenberg is first and foremost about Martin Luther, the monk who triggered the German Reformation in 1517.

8. Seine (France)

Cruise out of Paris through northern France

Paris has a timeless familiarity, with instantly recognizable architectural icons, memorable cuisine and chic boutiques. Dining is a quintessential part of the Parisian experience, and its art repository is one of the best, showcasing priceless treasures in palatial museums. Don't miss Rouen is one of Normandy’s most engaging and historically rich destinations, with its soaring Gothic cathedral, beautifully restored medieval quarter, excellent museums and vibrant cultural life. At the mouth of the Seine, Le Havre is a love letter to modernism, evoking France’s postwar energy and optimism.

9. Main (Germany)

A seductive German river connecting to the Rhine and Danube

Rising in Franconia and joining the Rhine near Mainz, the Main (pronounced "mine") is the longest German-only river. From Bamberg to its confluence, it travels some 400km through locks and picturesque scenery, dotted with historic towns. Frankfurt ’s skyscrapers are quite a contrast to the picturesque towns that follow, though it too has a rather traditional and charming old town. Scenic Würzburg is renowned for its art, architecture and delicate wines. A disarmingly beautiful architectural masterpiece, Bamberg’s entire Altstadt is a UNESCO World Heritage site.

10. Moselle (Germany)

An intimate stretch of the wine-producing German region

Having traversed France and Luxembourg , the Moselle heads through Germany to meet its destiny with the Rhine at Koblenz. It’s a very pretty stretch of river flanked by vineyards, and makes for great leisurely cruising and exploration. With an astounding nine UNESCO World Heritage sites, gorgeous Trier shelters Germany’s finest ensemble of Roman monuments, and is enlivened by a characterful medieval center and large student population. Bernkastel-Kues are lovely twin settlements in the heart of wine country, while Cochem’s castle and pretty buildings make it a visual highlight of the Moselle .

How do I choose a route for a European river cruise?

The two major rivers for European cruises are the Rhine and the Danube. Together, they were once the northern boundary of the Roman Empire. Rhine cruises often run from Amsterdam to Basel, following the course of the river through Germany. Danube cruises start in southern Germany, wend their way through Bratislava, Slovakia; Linz and Vienna, Austria; and Belgrade, Serbia; then skirt the Bulgarian and Romanian border to reach the Black Sea.

While many first-time European river cruisers stick to these two rivers, there are many other options available. In Western Europe, you can cruise through the French countryside on the Rhône and Seine, or check out the vineyards of Portugal on the Douro.

Even on the same river, distinct routes can be offered. One company might zip up the Rhine, allowing you to see the highlights in a few days; another might take longer, exploring smaller places along the way and offering more time for onshore experiences. You'll need to decide whether you’d like to get a look at more destinations, or more of a feel for fewer places.

When is the best time to go on a European river cruise?

Cruises on European rivers tend to begin in the spring, around March, and go through to October. Some cruises, operating in areas where Christmas markets are a feature, run right through December but inclement weather or river flooding could put a dampener on plans. Winter cruises tend to focus on places where Christmas experiences are on offer. Shorter daylight hours mean you’ll see less scenery, but the charm of the festive season has its own appeal.

Choosing your season is very much a matter of personal preference, and there are pros and cons for each season. Summer cruises offer the most spectacular scenery, the longest daylight hours and the best weather, but the towns you visit will be far busier and you won’t be alone in port; in some smaller places, you may have to scramble across the decks of other boats to reach the shore.

Spring and autumn mean less time around the pool on the top deck, but quieter times ashore. Expect rains in spring, but also blooming flowers. Autumn is a great time to cruise the Douro, with grapes being picked and clement temperatures.

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European River Cruise Lines

Considering that river cruising came into its own in Europe , it won't come as a surprise that it continues to be one of the most popular destinations for this travel style. Leading cruise lines such as AmaWaterways , Viking and Uniworld  continue to create new markets and itineraries to showcase the best of Europe's flowing rivers. On this page, you'll find more information about river cruises.   

6824 reviews on

Best European river cruise operators with reviews

• A-ROSA , 54 river cruises
• APT , 48 river cruises with 2 reviews and average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars
• AmaWaterways , 87 river cruises with 39 reviews and average rating of 5 out of 5 stars
• Avalon Waterways , 250 river cruises with 1,255 reviews and average rating of 5 out of 5 stars
• Back-Roads Touring , 2 river cruises
• Blue-Roads Toursing , 2 river cruises
• CIE Tours , 3 river cruises
• Collette , 13 river cruises
• CroisiEurope River Cruises , 144 river cruises with 151 reviews and average rating of 4 out of 5 stars
• Crucemundo , 23 river cruises with 52 reviews and average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars
• Emerald Waterways , 124 river cruises with 11 reviews and average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars
• Evergreen Tours , 102 river cruises with 8 reviews and average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars
• G Adventures , 1 river cruise with 16 reviews and average rating of 5 out of 5 stars
• Imperial River Cruises , 15 river cruises
• Lueftner Cruises , 27 river cruise with 51 reviews and average rating of 5 out of 5 stars
• Nexus Holidays Group , 1 river cruise
• Nicko Cruises , 27 river cruises with 27 reviews and average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars
• Portugal Travel Center , 4 river cruises with 7 reviews and average rating of 5 out of 5 stars
• Regina River Cruises , 37 river cruises with 13 reviews and average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars
• Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours , 167 river cruises with 19 reviews and average rating of 5 out of 5 stars
• Teeming River Cruises , 12 river cruises
• Travel Marvel , 17 river cruises
• U River Cruises , 12 river cruises with 13 reviews and average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars
• Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection , 74 river cruises with 52 reviews and average rating of 5 stars
• Viking Cruises , 30 river cruises
• Vodohod , 13 river cruises

Most popular rivers in Europe

• Luxury river cruises
• Best river cruise companies worldwide
• Tours for seniors

Popular Viking River Cruises

Rhine Getaway Basel to Amsterdam

Rhine Getaway Amsterdam to Basel

Grand European Tour Amsterdam to Budapest

Grand European Tour Budapest to Amsterdam

Danube Waltz Passau to Budapest

Popular avalon river cruises.

Romantic Rhine (Southbound) 2024

Romantic Rhine (Northbound) 2024

Paris to Normandy 2024

Festive Time on the Romantic Rhine (Northbound) 2024

The Legendary Danube 2024

Popular uniworld river cruises.

Paris & Normandy (2024) (Paris to Paris, 2024) (10 destinations)

Portugal, Spain & the Douro River Valley (2024) (Porto to Lisbon, 2024) (10 destinations)

Paris & Normandy (2024) (Paris to Paris, 2024) (9 destinations)

Brilliant Bordeaux (2024) (Bordeaux to Bordeaux, 2024) (9 destinations)

Splendors of Egypt & the Nile (2024) (Cairo to Cairo, 2024) (10 destinations)

Popular river cruises along the danube.

Christmas on Danube: from Vienna to Vienna via Budapest - MS Princess Isabella

Blue Danube cruise, Vienna-Vienna, MS Fidelio

Capital Cities Along the Danube (port-to-port cruise)

1.200 Miles on the Beautiful Blue Danube (Bucharest - Vienna) (13 destinations)

How to compare river cruise lines.

• Price-wise, if it sounds too good to be true, it probably is! If you want to snag a deal, you can look in the off-season, but keep in mind that depending on where you go, the weather and availability of popular attractions can change dramatically. 
• Certain companies are more reputable than others. Keep this in mind when booking a river cruise and always read reviews on TourRadar beforehand. 
• Some cruise ships will also offer travellers an all-inclusive package – these include off-shore excursions and alcoholic drinks onboard. Not all river cruise lines have this option, so ask ahead of time. And while it may increase the price at the time of booking, you'll very likely be saving money in the long run.
• Another thing to consider when comparing cruise lines is the kind of views offered onboard. Choose your cruise provider carefully and select your room even more thoughtfully as many options include varying qualities of views.

More destinations for river cruising

• Western Europe (1789)
• Europe (1337)
• Central Europe (1050)
• Germany (512)
• Austria and Germany (428)
• France and Germany (423)
• France (414)
• Middle East (323)
• North Africa (304)
• Egypt (304)
• Africa (279)
• Germany and Switzerland (252)
• Mediterranean (130)
• Austria (125)
• Far East (114)
• Indochina (109)
• South East Asia (109)
• Belgium and Netherlands (108)
• Cambodia and Vietnam (90)
• Netherlands (78)
• Balkans (69)
• Portugal (61)
• Germany and Hungary (57)
• Eastern Europe (53)
• Portugal and Spain (51)
• South America (42)
• Austria, Germany and Switzerland (30)
• Latin America (29)
• England and France (28)
• Czech Republic and Germany (24)
• Cambodia (18)
• Egypt, Jordan and Israel (16)
• Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam (14)
• Austria and Czech Republic (14)
• Vietnam (14)
• Brazil (12)
• North America (12)
• Egypt and Israel (11)
• Southern Africa (11)
• Egypt and Jordan (10)
• Germany and Poland (7)
• France and Spain (6)
• Australia (6)

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10 Tips for Your First European River Cruise (Updated 2022)

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How to Choose the Right European River Cruise for You

Planning your first European river cruise ? Picking a waterway, dates, and budget seem easy enough. Then you find there's an overwhelming choice of boats out there, and with seemingly similar appearances, routes, amenities—even cost. What to do? Read on for our river cruising guide, which will help you learn the distinct personalities and perks of the major river cruise lines , to find the right one for you.

AmaWaterways

Vibe : With 144-to-196 passengers, these European ships resemble well-decorated homes-away-from home . Cruises emphasize health and wellness, balanced by fine food and wine. The new AmaMagna , a double-wide boat with a Danube debut in May, offers more amenities and space—including a novel watersports platform (for riverboats). Fellow Passengers : Energetic social Americans, often wine buffs, ranging from 40-plus to Baby Boomers and beyond. Younger cruisers often book themed wine sails. Average Eight-Day Fare : $2,699 per person. Notable Inclusions : All meals, beer, and wine with onboard lunch and dinner; shore excursions; guided hiking and biking tours; bicycles; one-hour daily happy hour with beer, wine, and spirits pre-dinner; and Wi-Fi. Rivers : Danube, Rhine, Moselle, Main, Rhone, Seine, Garonne, Dordogne, Douro; and Dutch and Belgian waterways and canals. Cabins : Residential-ish staterooms typically run between 155 to 502 square feet. Most cabins sport Ama’s signature twin balconies, featuring both a French and outside veranda. Flat-screen TVs double as computers, and baths sport multi-jet showerheads. Eat and Drink : Count on seasonal, destination-driven menus with healthful bents, fine regional wines—even recipes on pillows at turndown. All cruisers enjoy one complimentary, six-course dinner with wine pairings at the haute Chef’s Table, prepared before passengers. Staying Fit : Devotees like the well-equipped gym, walking track, heated pool, and hydration station with infused detox and gemstone waters. A Wellness Host provides complimentary daily classes, like core strengthening and circuit training, as well as personal training for a fee. Shore Excursions : An Ama specialty: The line partners with Backroads, bringing biking, walking, and hiking tours to more than 120 sails this year and in 2020.

Crystal River Cruises

Vibe : Expect plush, all-suite accommodations serviced by attentive butlers, stellar cuisine, and abundant perks. Riverboats beautifully duplicate Crystal Ocean’s modern luxury style . Fellow Passengers : Consider the mostly American over-50 crowd friendly, well-heeled, travel-savvy, and stylish. Average Eight-Day Fare : $6,333 per person. Notable Inclusions: : All meals, alcohol, and shore excursions (other than über-exclusive); electric bikes (e-bikes); 24-hour room service; self-service laundry (rare to riverboats); Wi-Fi; gratuities onboard and ashore; airport transfers. Rivers : Rhine, Main, Danube, and Moselle. (Note: Crystal riverboats don’t sail in France.) Cabins : Even the smallest suites (188 square feet on the quadruplets; 219 square feet on Mozart), feel swanky. Revel in king—not the typical riverboat queen—beds. Most feature walk-in closets and dual-vanity bathrooms. Modern tech accents include a bedside iPad with room controls. ETRO Italian toiletries, especially the body lotion, are swipe-worthy. Eat and Drink : Think Michelin star-style cuisine, particularly at on-site restaurant Waterside. The Bistro showcases morning specialty coffees and house-baked pastries, midday charcuterie, and later, wine and tapas. A Vintage Room extravaganza (a rare extra cost), paired with legendary wines, is extraordinary. Staying Fit : At the well-outfitted fitness center, personal training’s available. Take comp morning classes like yoga, plunge into the heated indoor pool. Off ship, go kayaking and canoeing, ride an e-bike. Later, unwind in the full-service spa. Shore Excursions : Outings are designed to avoid tourist hordes. Tour groups are limited to an unusually intimate 15 guests, and Crystal’s plush customized coaches deliver leg room, power outlets at every seat, and complimentary Wi-Fi.

Emerald Waterways

Vibe : Emerald’s 112-to-182 passenger European riverboats resemble attractive mid-priced modern hotels, awash in glass, chrome, and contemporary art, with buzzy lounges. Most boats have spas and salons. The pool converts to a movie theater on all ships except Emerald Radiance . Fellow Passengers : A fun-loving, energetic group, mostly 45 years old and up, although the line increasingly skews younger. Cruisers are from the U.K., Australia, and North America, and like independent exploration, such as bicycling ashore. Average Eight-Day Fare : $2,600 per person. Notable Inclusions : All meals, beer, and wine with onboard lunch and dinner; most excursions; wifi; gratuities onboard and ashore; and airport transfers. Rivers : Danube, Maine, Rhine, Moselle, Douro, Rhône, Saône. Cabins : Solo cabins—great for friends traveling together—run 117 square feet. Most guests book 180-square-foot Balcony Suites. The fanciest, at 315 square feet, include an iPad, Nespresso machine, and some laundry service. Eat and Drink : Reflections Restaurant provides daytime buffets, and four-course contemporary European evening dining with regional wines. Passengers keep the poolside bar lively. Weather permitting, Emerald hosts a popular once-a-week sundeck lunch barbecue. Staying Fit : The large indoor heated pool has a retractable roof, top deck walking/running track, and wellness center with a small gym. Shore Excursions : Many diversified options, including the popular EmeraldACTIVE, featuring guided bike tours and vigorous hikes.

Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours

Vibe : Scenic —Emerald Waterways’ older, pricier sibling—also leans modern chic, with marble, glass, wood, and steel. Ships host between 44 and 163 guests, who enjoy butlers (service level depends on cabin category), and venues like a gym, salon, and spa. Fellow Passengers : Social, sophisticated passengers, usually 55-plus, who relish food and wine and independent exploration. A whopping 45 percent are fun-loving Aussies, with the rest divided between the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada. Passengers mix well and many make new international friends. Average Eight-Day Fare : $4,500 per person. Notable Inclusions : All meals and most alcohol; 24-hour room service; gratuities onboard and ashore; excursions and events; Wi-Fi; airport transfers. Rivers : Danube, Main, Rhine, Moselle, Douro, Rhône, Saône. Cabins : Accommodations are dubbed suites, yet the smallest (160 square feet) are considered a cabin by most. All provide Egyptian cotton sheets, down pillows, and L’Occitane toiletries. Butlers stock complimentary mini-fridges, filled with guests’ preferred beverages. Eat and Drink : Scenic offers singular advantages: Six dining choices—like sundeck teppanyaki—and enough dinner tables for two. Tuck into lavish five-course meals in specialty restaurants, perhaps French or Italian. Guests booked in costly suites enjoy one complimentary six-course degustation menu, sommelier-paired with wine, in the haute Table La Rive. Staying Fit : Use the outdoor heated pool, wellness center with workout equipment, running/walking track, and e-bikes. Scenic partners with Trek for 10 sailings per year, melding daily cycling trips into a river cruise itinerary. Shore Excursions : Scenic partners with National Geographic, featuring a Nat Geo photographer and lecturer, on some sails. Most memorable: Every cruise offers a Scenic Enrich event, such as a private ballet performance in a St. Petersburg palace.

Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection

Vibe : Admirers of opulent European hotels adore Uniworld’s boats, averaging 130 guests. Think bespoke furnishings, intense hues, antiques, crystal, and marble. No ships are alike; one evokes the Art Deco era, another resembles a baronial estate. Six Super Ships, the line’s crème de la crème, prove particularly posh. Fellow Passengers : Chic, discerning passengers who are mostly North American, with some Brits and Europeans, age 50 and up. Average Eight-Day Fare : $4,000 per person. Notable Inclusions : All meals and alcohol; 24-hour room service; shore excursions; wellness programs; gratuities onboard and ashore; Wi-Fi; airport transfers. Rivers : Danube, Moselle, Rhine, Main, Bordeaux, Dordogne, Garonne, Seine, Saône, Rhône, Douro, Po, Moselle. Cabins : Enthusiasts overlook the small cabins (some just 151 square feet) for luxe appointments, like handcrafted beds from legendary Savoir Beds of England, thick towels on heated bars, and Asprey and Hermés toiletries. Butlers pamper suite guests, including unpacking luggage and drawing bubble baths. Eat and Drink : Chefs excel at classic and contemporary European cuisine showcasing local ingredients. Vegetarians, vegans, and the diet-minded dine well. Bartenders craft cool destination-inspired cocktails. Adventurous guests book Uniworld’s intimate dinners in local host homes. Staying Fit : Work off indulgence in the well-equipped gym; certified wellness instructors offer TRX® Suspension Training on select sails. Exhale with a spa facial or massage. Shore Excursions : Enthusiastic guides, speaking excellent English, lead activities such as walks, hikes, kayaking, and bicycling. Particularly noteworthy: Exclusive excursions, like golfing on France’s most prestigious courses, are complimentary.

Viking River Cruises

Vibe : Virtually identical, the company's 190-passenger Longships possess a contemporary Scandinavian design, emphasizing natural wood, neutral hues, and windows. Enthusiasts praise the alikeness , preferring the same onboard experience wherever they go. With such uniformity, Viking cruises purr along like Bentleys. Fellow Passengers : A primarily American over-50 crowd, well-traveled but sometimes budget-minded, passionate about history, culture, and the arts. Average Eight-Day Fare : $3,748 per person. Notable Inclusions: : All meals, beer and wine with onboard lunch and dinner; one complimentary shore excursion per port; Wi-Fi; ground transfers with Viking Air purchase. Rivers : Rhine, Main, Danube, Seine, Rhône, Douro, Moselle, Elbe, Dordogne, Garonne, and Gironde. Cabins : Viking’s bathrooms, with glass-enclosed showers, heated floors, and anti-fog mirrors, are knockout. Standard Staterooms are small (150 square feet) but functional; comfort comes in 205-square-foot Veranda Staterooms. Splurge on a 275-square-foot Veranda Suite, or 445-square-foot Explorer Suite. Eat and Drink : Viking dishes up familiar American and modern European cuisine. The casual indoor-outdoor Aquavit Terrace delivers pleasing daytime buffets. Most passengers happily dine in The Restaurant on three-course meals at night. Staying Fit : No workout facilities, except for a small walking track (and two putting greens). Concierges can arrange visits to local spas and gyms. Shore Excursions : Widely praised for immersive local experiences, Viking standouts include intimate tea and conversation in local residents’ homes, and a fabulous outing to Downtown Abbey’s Highclere Castle.

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Our Readers' Favorite 10 River Cruise Lines in 2021

Paul Brady is the news director at Travel + Leisure and the brand's expert on cruise travel. He has been covering the travel industry for more than 15 years for outlets including Condé Nast Traveler , Skift , and The Huffington Post .

Note: If you’re looking for our most recent recommendations, check out the 2023 list of our favorite river cruise lines.

This year's World's Best Awards survey was open for voting January 11 through May 10, 2021, as destinations around the world were lifting COVID-19 restrictions. Survey rules have always allowed readers to reflect on their travel experiences over a three-year period. We hope that this year's honorees will inspire your own travels as you get back out into the world.

The past year put the entire travel industry through the wringer, perhaps no segment more so than cruising. Though the pandemic forced ships around the world to remain in port, readers nevertheless looked back fondly on their times at sea while ranking the world's top 10 river cruise lines for Travel + Leisure's World's Best Awards.

Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Readers rated individual cruise ships on their cabins and facilities, food, service, itineraries and destinations, excursions and activities, and value. Those assessments were combined to generate results for the cruise lines in five categories, including river cruising.

Though many European countries have been off-limits for travelers, memories of recent trips to one of the world's iconic river cruising destinations helped inform voters' choices this year. Tauck moved up two places in T+L's 2021 rankings to grab the No. 2 spot with an eye-popping score above 96. The iconic river ships of No. 3 Viking Cruises also fared well this year, with readers giving the stalwart high marks, moving it up three places. Viking has river ships across Europe, of course, but also sails the Mekong and the Nile. In 2022, the company plans to launch trips on the Mississippi.

Other high-ranking lines won praise for their journeys outside the traditional rivers of Europe. No. 4 Aqua Expeditions, for example, sails to such destinations as Indonesia, Peru, and Vietnam. (The company's newest ship, the Aqua Nera, debuted this summer on the Amazon.) And No. 5 American Queen Steamboat Company, which didn't make T+L's top 10 last year, keeps its focus strictly domestic, with trips on the Columbia, the Mississippi, the Ohio, and other U.S. waterways.

But this year's highest-ranked line goes just about everywhere. No. 1 Uniworld Boutique River Cruises earned one of the highest scores of any cruise line — river or ocean — this year, impressing readers with flawless service, imaginative itineraries, top-flight design, and wonderful food. "We were treated like royalty," gushed one traveler who sailed on the Maria Theresa. "Our experience was an 11 out of 10." Can't do much better than that.

Find the rest of the list — and what other qualities set Uniworld apart — below.

1. Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

This global operator of 19 ships sails rivers across Europe, plus waterways in Cambodia, Egypt, India, Peru, and Vietnam. Among the newest in the fleet are the Bon Voyage, based in France, and the La Venezia, recently relaunched in Italy. And while readers certainly raved about the line's ships, they saved their highest praise for the ask-and-you-shall-receive mentality of the Uniworld crews. "My experience exceeded all expectations," said one traveler, who toured Europe on the Antoinette . "Staff consistently went above and beyond to ensure a pampered vacation. When one of our party asked if there was a guitar on board so we could sing in the parlor one evening, a staffer said he would arrange it — and proceeded to purchase a guitar at our stop the next day!" Other respondents made note of Uniworld's overall attention to detail, with excursions, meals, entertainment, and logistics expertly handled in just the right way. "It was among our most favorite vacations ever — everything was perfect," said one voter, who traveled on the Beatrice . "The best experience I have ever had on any ship," said another. A third reader summed it up like this: "This was my first experience with Uniworld, and I cried when I had to leave. Everything wowed me."

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 96.79 More information: uniworld.com

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 96.30 More information: tauck.com

3. Viking Cruises

WBA Hall of Fame honoree. Score: 93.65 More information: vikingcruises.com

4. Aqua Expeditions

Score: 92.69 More information: aquaexpeditions.com

5. American Queen Steamboat Company

Score: 92.68 More information: americanqueensteamboatcompany.com

Score: 92.07 More information: belmond.com

7. Avalon Waterways

Score: 91.29 More information: avalonwaterways.com

8. Scenic Cruises

Score: 91.08 More information: scenicusa.com

9. AmaWaterways

Score: 90.64 More information: amawaterways.com

10. Crystal Cruises

Score: 88.23 More information: crystalcruises.com

See all of our readers' favorite hotels, cities, airlines, cruise lines, and more in the World's Best Awards .

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Every item on this page was chosen by a Veranda editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

These Are the Best Luxury River Cruises to Take in 2024

Get ready to add to your travel bucket list with these bespoke offerings.

​​Make your list and check it twice. Experiential gifts are all the rage, and for good reason. Making memories, like while on a luxury river cruise trip, is statistically shown to provide higher long-term satisfaction than simply acquiring things ( though we have you covered there, too) .

Plus, people who travel often tend to be happier in general. Let that be your motivation to finally take (or gift) that dreamed-about journey down the Danube or the bucket list boat safari in Africa. Read on for the top luxury river cruises for 2024, in no particular order. These upscale offerings sure to brighten any holiday occasion, whether for Christmas, an anniversary, or a milestone birthday.

Riverside Luxury Cruises: Holland at the Heart of Tulip Blossom

Riverside stands out for boasting all suite categories of rooms and having the highest crew-to-guest ratio of any cruise line. Guests each get a personal butler, too. While all Riverside options are stunning, the launch of a new ship, the Riverside Debussy in Spring 2024, makes the tulip season cruise in Holland especially compelling. The 8-day, 7-night offering features port stops in Amsterdam, Arnhem, Nijmegen, Antwerp, Gent, Middelburg, Veere, Dordrecht and Rotterdam. Look forward to learning more about the 150 different species of tulips on this lovely Western European cruise. Beyond the blooms, this Netherlands and Belgium-focused itinerary includes multiple excursions, from cheese tastings to guided walks to an oyster tour. Fares include accommodation, all meals and drinks and one excursion per port.

Viking: America’s Great River, Mississippi River Cruise

America’s greatest waterway gets the luxe treatment with this new Viking offering, which debuted in 2022. Start in St. Paul, Minnesota and journey through 10 states until ending in New Orleans, Louisiana. Stops include Red Wing (MN), La Crosse (WI), Dubuque (IA), Quad Cities (IA), Hannibal (MO), St. Louis (MO), Memphis (TN), Greenville (MS), Vicksburg (MS), Natchez (MS) and Baton Rouge (LA). The trip lasts 15 days and includes 12 guided tour excursions, a lovely way to uniquely experience the central United States and the water that has shaped the region’s identity. Half journeys are available, too, for those only interested in the southern or northern legs. Viking offers one free excursion at each port, as well as all meals and beer, wine, and soft drinks.

Zambezi Queen, Chobe River, Botswana and Namibia

This luxury houseboat features 2-, 3- and 4-night itinerary options for this one-of-a-kind water safari. According to Monique Lange, African Safari expert for Go2Africa , “Guests can enjoy leisurely days spent cruising along the Chobe River, a region that’s home to Africa’s largest concentration of African elephant herds.” She adds, “This 42-meter-long vessel offers 14 luxury suites, each fitted with their own outer decks overlooking the river.”

Travelers can also check out other unique gathering spots like a spacious dining area, rear viewing deck, a lounge and front deck with loungers and plunge pool. “Activities on offer include water-based game-viewing, catch-and-release Tiger Fishing, cultural tours to the local village and even an indigenous Baobab Tree outing (these are mythical trees in Africa, and an important symbol in local African cultures) to see the ‘Tree of Life’ on Impalila Island,” Lange concludes.

Viking: Paris & D-Day 80th Anniversary

This new sailing, specifically to commemorate 80 years since D-Day, is set for 2024. This is perfect for history buffs! A 12-day cruise tour, start in Paris or London, then sail through Normandy visiting historic sites and museums to learn about the beginning of the end of WWII on the Western Front. This poignant journey includes 11 excursions in spots like Vernon, France, and Rouen, France. As with all Viking offerings, all meals are included in the price, plus one free excursion per port. Departures are available from March through November of 2024.

Abercrombie & Kent: ‘La Belle Epoque’, Burgundy Cruise

Oenophiles will especially love this intimate, 7-day offering from renowned luxury magnate Abercrombie & Kent . This European barge trip, limited to 12 guests, explores one of France’s most celebrated wine regions, Burgundy, in style. Start in Venarey-les-Laumes, with stops in Ancy-le-Franc, Lezinnes, Montbard, Chablis, Ravières, and Tanlay. This journey on the Burgundy canal includes highlights like a falconry display, gourmet shore lunches, complimentary bicycles for exploring, and tons of wine and food experiences. This route is accessible from the end of April through October, with departures each Sunday. Included in every fare is the accommodation, all charters and transfers, all meals and drinks on board, all sightseeing excursions during the cruise and a 24/7 on-call concierge (not on site). Cheers to a bespoke French adventure!

Riverside Luxury Cruises: Delightful Danube Christmas

No list of yearly cruises is complete without a Christmas markets trip to the winter wonderland of central Europe. Riverside Luxury Cruises takes travelers on a 5-day, 4-night journey from Vienna, Austria to Passau, Germany. Stops in between include the Christmas markets in Salzburg, Linz and Krems. Get your fill of mulled wine and gingerbread, plus snag one-of-a-kind festive trinkets in some of Europe’s best Christmas markets. Fares are all-inclusive, meaning accommodation, all meals and drinks and one excursion per port is covered.

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'I had never been on a river cruise before and I can tell you I was so impressed'

By Shaynna Blaze | 1 day ago

After another great experience filming The Block this year I was so thrilled to be off on my first ever Getaway trip.

And honestly, it could not have been better - all the glory of a European summer, cruising the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers onboard Emerald Destiny from Amsterdam to Budapest. 

I had never been to Amsterdam before and by day one I was already smitten - with its charming canals, vibrant art scene and distinct architecture, it's just one big vibe! Starting my visit with a canal cruise was the best way to get my bearings and admire the beautiful canal houses.

It is a city famous for being bicycle friendly so I grabbed an ebike and pedalled my way to Waterland, just a short ferry ride from the city. Seeing my first windmill in the wild was great and the apple pie at the end made all the pedalling worth it. 

Watch the video above.

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Not only had I never been to Amsterdam but I had never been on a river cruise and I can tell you I was so impressed. Emerald Cruises offers the perfect experience with so many stops along the way to discover and explore, plus loads of time to relax onboard.

The suites are designed for the ultimate in guest comfort and it's such a treat to only have to unpack once. The sun deck is a great spot to watch the action on the river pass you by but the dining options also have great views and exceptional food. 

Next we cruised into Germany and the bustling city of Cologne. The cathedral is by far the most impressive monument with its Gothic architecture and sublime interiors but I was very keen to try the local speciality - Kolsch beer. It's quite a light and crisp beer and perfect for me who hadn't drunk a beer for about 20 years, but when in Germany…..

Back onboard and it was time to cruise through what I believe was the most spectacular part of the trip - the Rhine Gorge, with its fairytale scenery, castles and fortresses at every turn. It was a great chance to chat to the other guests up on the sun deck as we motored through to Rudesheim, possibly the most lovely town along the river.  

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Rudesheim is home to one of the quirkiest museums ever - Siegfried's Mechanical Music Museum, one of the largest collections of mechanical music boxes in the world. Lovely Mary, who works there, took great joy in showing me some of the different music boxes, including the Phonoliszt-Violina, and I have to say, I really loved it. 

After a morning yoga class onboard Emerald Destiny we cruised into our next port of call, Miltenburg. Famous for its local castle built around 1200 and its half-timbered houses, still in original condition, and dating back as far as the 14th century.

At this point of the trip this was most definitely my favourite town - it was just so pretty, quaint and authentic. 

One thing I was not expecting on this trip was a take-home glass fish that I helped create. In the next town of Wertheim there is a centuries old glass blowing tradition and I was lucky enough to meet Ralf who let me help create the cutest little fish. It was one of the EmeraldPLUS experiences on our cruise and it was most definitely a highlight.

READ MORE: 'What it was like staying in a 900-year-old Japanese temple  

Still in Germany and our next stop was Wurzburg . Bit of a behind the scenes story here, but I had to do all the voiceovers for this part of the story again as we worked out we'd recorded the word Wurzburg wrong. I think there are a few ways to say it but we've gone with "Vertz-borg", said in my best German accent.

Now I absolutely loved it there, especially the Wurzburg Residence. The interiors of this palace are like nothing I've seen, I actually got goosebumps when I walked in. It was a very special experience. 

Breakfast was my favourite meal on the ship, especially sitting outside enjoying the passing view but all the food onboard is top notch. Meals were a great time to mix and mingle with the other guests and exchange stories of tour highlights. 

After Miltenburg and Wurzburg there were still a few more "burgs/bergs" to visit and the next was Bamberg. It's like a picture book where the entire old town is UNESCO listed and the architectural highlights are many, including the New Residence which served as the seat of Bamberg's Prince Bishops until the early 1800s and is a glimpse into their lavish lifestyles with opulent furnishings and even more extravagant gardens. 

Nuremberg has a much more sombre history than the other bergs as it was one of the most bombed cities in WWII - 92 per cent of the old town was completely destroyed and then later repaired and rebuilt. It was the city of the nazi party rallies with up to a million people attending every year so it really was a target.

There are certainly still some lighter moments in this town. It has a wonderful Christmas market in the main square each year and it's also the home of lebkuchen, or gingerbread, and I can confirm it was delightful.

One last burg on the list, Regensburg. It is one of Germany's oldest towns with a monument dating back to 179AD - quite unbelievable. There is a 12th century stone bridge also but surprisingly it's the sausage kitchen nearby that is more well-known. Now I don't eat meat but the crew gave it a good go and did tell me that the Regensburg sausage, with its sauerkraut, sweet mustard and caraway seed bun was one of the best.

Departing Germany and our next stop was Austria with our first port being Melk. Melk is known internationally for its Abbey, founded almost a thousand years ago when a castle was donated to the Benedictine monks and it's been a working monastery ever since. The interiors are phenomenal and the library is filled with 90,000 books and rare manuscripts.

I actually hopped off the ship with an ebike in Melk so had the ride the 32kms up to Durnstein, through charming villages, rolling vineyards, lush countryside and some of the most glorious apricot trees I've ever seen. There were little roadside stands with apricots for sale and they were just divine. 

Now I can't give it all away but there is another leg to this trip still to come and it's just as amazing. I continue further into Austria and then across to stunning Slovakia, before finishing up in the Hungarian capital of Budapest.

Watch Getaway tonight at 5:30pm on 9 and 9Now to see Shaynna's second Europe episode.

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Krems an der Donau (Austria)

Cruise port schedule, live map, terminals, news.

Region Europe Rivers

Local Time 2024-09-28 09:35

Port Krems an der Donau cruise ship schedule shows timetable calendars of all arrival and departure dates by month. The port's schedule lists all ships (in links) with cruises going to or leaving from Krems an der Donau, Austria. To see the full itineraries (ports of call dates and arrival / departure times) and their lowest rates – just follow the corresponding ship-link.

Krems an der Donau is a Danube River cruise port and town in Lower Austria, with population around 25,000. Krems is located approx 70 km (43 ml) west of Vienna (Austria's capital city). During the 11th-12th centuries, the town (then named Chremis) was nearly as large as Vienna.

Among the most booked cruisetour excursions offered from Krems is visiting a nearby vineyard. The tour is inclusive of sampling locally-made white wines (including award-winning Riesling wines). The town is also a well-known producer of Marillenschnaps (apricot brandy). Featuring a well-preserved medieval architecture, Krem's landmarks and best-known tourist attractions include Old Town's churches (Burgerspitalkirche, Dominikanerkirche, Pfarrkirche St Veit, Piaristenkirche), Dreifaltigkeitssaule (square), Gozzoburg (museum), Pulverturm (round tower), Simandlbrunnen (statue), Steiner Tor (gate), Gottweigerhofkapelle (chappel), Karikaturmuseum, Kunsthalle (exhibition building), churches (Minoritenkirche, Pfarrkirche Hl Nikolaus), Salzstadl (tavern), Danube University.

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