The Best River Cruises in Europe
Where most of the world’s best river cruises sail — and where most travelers start.
Get Free River Cruise QuotesEurope is where most of the best river cruises in the world sail, and where most travelers take their first. Here are the strongest rivers and why.
The Classic Pair: Rhine and Danube
The Rhine and the Danube carry more river cruise ships than any other rivers on earth, and for good reason. The Rhine runs from Switzerland to the North Sea through the castle-lined Rhine Gorge, Germany’s wine country and the Dutch lowlands; the Danube links Bavaria, Austria, Slovakia and Hungary, with the Wachau valley and three capital cities on the classic Passau-to-Budapest route. Both offer the widest choice of ships, lines and dates. Our sister sites Rhine Riverboat Cruises and Danube Riverboat Cruises cover each river in depth.
The Connoisseur’s Rivers
Douro. Portugal’s Douro winds from Porto into a deep valley of terraced vineyards, the home of port wine. Ships are smaller, cities few, and the landscape itself is the attraction — many travelers rate it their favorite European river. European Riverside Cruising (Douro) has the full guide.
Seine. Paris to Normandy: Monet’s Giverny, Rouen’s cathedral and the D-Day beaches.
Rhône and Saône. Burgundy and Provence: Lyon’s food, Avignon’s papal palace and Roman Arles.
Moselle. A gentle, winding valley of vineyards and half-timbered towns, often combined with the Rhine.
Seasons That Make a Good River Great
Spring
Tulip-time sailings in the Netherlands and Belgium; blossom in the Wachau.
Summer
Long days for scenic cruising; the busiest season.
Autumn
Harvest on the Douro, the Moselle and the Rhine; golden vineyards.
Advent
Christmas-market cruises on the Rhine, Main and Danube — see European Riverside Cruises (Christmas markets).
Europe’s strengths are depth and ease: ships every week of the season, short distances between towns, and an included tour in most ports on many lines. Its weakness is popularity, so the best dates fill early. For current promotions, check Wave Season.
Pick Your Best European River
Our cruise advisors at Mister Cruise will match you with the right European river, line and season and send free quotes.
Get Free River Cruise Quotes