European riverboat cruises can open your eyes to an incredible array of natural and cultural wonders. A typical Moselle River cruise (roundtrip from Amsterdam) features lush slope-side vineyards.
Croisi Europe’s Elbe River cruise will visit Dresden, famous for its fine porcelain, as well as Martin Luther’s house in Wittenberg which has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Most river cruise ships do not provide dedicated accessibility cabins, while certain ports have steep ramps or cobblestone streets that could impede accessibility. Please check with your cruise line regarding accessibility before embarking.
Danube River
Not surprisingly, the Danube River is one of Europe’s most beloved cruise routes. Meandering through 10 European countries and providing visitors with access to some of its most vibrant towns and cities.
On a Danube riverboat cruise, travelers will experience an unforgettable journey that traverses scenic landscapes and brings them right into the heart of European culture – including an excursion to Vienna which inspired musical geniuses like Beethoven and Strauss.
River cruising can often be all-inclusive, but some guided excursions may require additional charges. Speak with the cruise line’s staff about which tours might best meet your needs.
Rhine River
Riverboat cruises offer an ideal way to discover Europe. On these captivating itineraries, you will travel to destinations brimming with history and breathtaking beauty; including lush wine regions like Koblenz and Cologne.
Discover 16th-century old towns, where tiny cobbled streets wind past quirkily crooked half-timbered houses. Listen to tales about Archbishop Hatto being eaten alive by mice or Lorelei maid distracting sailors into sailing into rocks instead of safe harbor.
Late April through early June and September through October are ideal months to cruise the Rhine due to pleasant weather conditions; however, these months also tend to see increased tourist crowds at key sites along the riverbanks.
Seine River
Cruises along the Seine capture the chic Parisian atmosphere that tourists have come to love, from basic sightseeing tours to fine dining experiences with Paris’ top monuments on display – there’s something suitable for every traveler here!
These cruises feature seating arrangements to allow visitors to appreciate the most iconic landmarks, including Notre Dame Cathedral, Eiffel Tower and Musee d’Orsay. Arrive early so that tickets and the best seats can be secured.
Budget travelers looking for an enjoyable cruise experience on a tight budget have many options available to them, from nine stops across the city and operating similar to boat taxi services, such as open-top views in good weather to being forced under cover, where live narration may become challenging.
Viking Riverboat
Viking River Cruises operates the world’s largest river cruise fleet and one of the most luxurious lines. Viking is famous for including all port charges, Wi-Fi access and most meals as part of your trip price; plus they provide tour options and lectures onboard!
Longships from this award-winning company feature cutting-edge engineering, sleek Scandinavian design and understated elegance. Staterooms feature hotel-style beds with premium linens and bottled water – an experience for guests.
Onboard amenities include a top-deck lounge and the ability to take in passing scenery from a glass magrodome. There are also numerous enrichment activities onboard like cooking demonstrations, musical entertainment, wine tastings and cooking and craft demonstrations. Itineraries onboard this line may take them past stately chateaux, vineyards on steep cliff sides and hilltop towns tucked between fortresses.
Uniworld Riverboat
Uniworld Riverboat Cruises offer itineraries across Europe, Asia and Africa on luxurious ships designed with sophisticated aesthetics in mind and featuring classic furnishings, beautiful decor and inspiring art.
Their onboard chefs use ingredients sourced locally whenever possible to craft delicious dishes that represent the cuisines of your region of travel. Furthermore, they provide themed cruises such as visiting Lyon’s Institut Paul Bocuse or going truffle hunting expedition.
Uniworld cruise fares include all gratuities onboard as well as scheduled airport transfers, while many departures waive single supplement costs if traveling solo.
