Newer river cruise ships are twice as wide as traditional European river boats, providing more space for passengers in staterooms and offering an expanded selection of amenities onboard.
Traveling on a river cruise is an ideal way to discover European destinations that would otherwise be challenging or prohibitively costly to reach by ocean cruise. Plus, most food, beverages, and shore excursions are included with the cost of your cruise trip!
1. Skiathos 
Skiathos’ most enjoyable activity is an exciting boat tour around its numerous islands and beaches. There are different length options available, but our full-day experience provides the ideal opportunity to see everything at your own leisure and get that perfect tan without too much work!
Koukounaries Beach on Skiathos is an essential stop, known for its golden sand and clear waters. Lalaria beach stands out as an impressive choice with all-white pebbles and the distinctive “hollow rock,” standing proudly in the water.
Kalamaki Beach offers an energetic scene, Vassilias offers tranquil relaxation and Agia Eleni has stunning panoramic views. To finish off the day in style, take a stroll through Skiathos town to discover its fantastic restaurants and historic harbour area.
2. Sorano
Sorano, Tuscany’s medieval gem, stands out as an impressive hilltop fortress built from tuff hillside material that contains many archaeological and historical treasures.
If you’re seeking an uncharted river experience, consider one of Europe’s more remote rivers for your next river cruise! Rhone may be popular but there are numerous others awaiting discovery!
England’s Bristol is another underrated European gem that boasts plenty of activities and attractions suitable for all kinds of travelers, ranging from canal walks past vibrant townhouses to elegant suspension bridges – there’s something here for every type of traveler! Furthermore, Czech Republic’s Cesky Krumlov provides visitors with an authentic Old World European experience; truly an unexpected find!
3. Dubrovnik
Dubrovnik has earned itself the nickname “Pearl of Adriatic” thanks to its stunning whitewashed streets and majestic landmarks such as Rector’s Palace UNESCO World Heritage site and Walls of Dubrovnik World Heritage site, making this city an absolute treasure chest for history lovers from around the globe.
The Jesuit Staircase featured prominently during Cersei’s Walk of Atonement in Game of Thrones is worthy of visiting due to its beautiful architecture. Other popular sites include Church of St. Ignatius of Loyola with its magnificent fresco displays and Fort of Lovrijenac for stunning city views.
Dubrovnik and Lokrum Island, home of a fortress, botanical garden, monastery and naturist beach, can be reached via short ferry ride. For an extra special tour experience consider booking the Epic Game of Thrones Walking Tour; its 5-star reviews on GetYourGuide make this an exceptional tour that includes sitting on the Iron Throne itself!
4. Zadar
Zadar is located on Croatia’s Dalmatian Coast, boasting Roman and Venetian era relics throughout its peninsular Old Town, including St Mary’s Convent from 11th century with religious art. Nature enthusiasts will delight in hiking through its hills or kayaking along its clear waters in search of sea eagles or other marine life.
River cruises often offer onboard enrichment programs ranging from guest lectures and cooking demonstrations to kid-friendly activities like scavenger hunts at the Louvre in Paris and guided bike tours in Vienna. Avalon Waterways hosts world history experts onboard its Normandy sailings while Tauck has musicians and folk dance troupes to add variety.
River cruising doesn’t come without its drawbacks, however. Increased canal lock traffic during busy periods like springtime on the Danube and Christmas market season in Europe may force itinerary adjustments and can disrupt journey plans.
5. Zagreb
Perast, one of Europe’s secret gems, boasts undisturbed natural beauty that beguiles visitors to this picturesque coastal village located just north of Kotor. Cheap yet pristine and seemingly unspoiled by development; Perast offers cheap accommodation as well as beautiful architecture and an intriguing history making it the perfect place for visitors exploring Europe.
As part of Switzerland’s Lake Lucerne, Tellskapelle chapel pays homage to William Tell – its national hero – while at its heart lies its artisan traditions: wood carpenters, toy makers, candle crafters and Moravian star stitchers work year-round to showcase them all.
First-time visitors to Zagreb often notice an emphasis on art ranging from street murals and contemporary museum exhibits to experimental pieces by prominent contemporary artists. Urbanists in Zagreb have also prioritized green initiatives like an intricate network of parks circling its core.
