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Writer's pictureTrey Tracy

The 7 Best European River Cruises

Relax and Flow With The Best European River Cruises


If you are looking to immerse yourself in the magical and captivating old-world charm of Europe then sailing on a river cruise is just the perfect getaway option. You can enjoy the pristine waters of the Danube, Rhine and Seine while discovering the rich cultural history and and delectable food along the way. Europe is known for its beauty and serenity. So, it is no surprise that discovering Europe through its rivers adds up so much more to the entire experience. Each of Europe’s rivers has a distinguishing characteristic of its own that you must experience for yourself.


Below is my list of seven of the best European river cruises that will make your trip exquisite, unforgettable and full of new adventures.


The 7 Best European Cruises

1. Danube River Cruise The Danube is the soul and heart of Europe. The river takes its course from the Black Forest in Germany and continues to flow through the borders of more than 8 countries. Some of the spectacular cities that the river passes through are Hungary, Croatia, Romania, Budapest and Prague. Cruise by majestic castles that are straight out of fairy tales, lofty fortresses, ethereal churches, and immerse yourself in some authentic European cuisine that is a beautiful amalgamation of culture and history. A Danube River cruise can usually last between 8 to 12 days. 2. Rhine River Cruise If you are looking for a romantic getaway with your beloved then the Rhine will be the perfect backdrop. A Rhine River cruise passes through breathtaking Switzerland, the dramatic and stunning landscapes of Germany, the fun and vibrant Amsterdam, and some exquisite wine countries along the way. You can also enjoy several adventurous water activities as well as taking a stroll through the local markets of the cities as you soak in the vibe of European culture. The typical cruise duration is around 8 to 15 days, and you get to experience the different traditions and cultures of almost six countries. The Rhine River Cruise is one of the most famous river cruises in Europe.


3. Douro River Cruise The Douro River cruise passes through the central part of Spain and parts of Portugal, the cruise also passes through exquisite destinations such as Vila Lamego, Braga, Pinhao and Salamanca. The tour gives you a glimpse into the rich, historic past and culture of Portugal. The cruise takes around 8 days and leaves you with an unforgettable experience of the marvelous Iberian Peninsula and the always sunny capital city of Madrid. Porto, the second-largest port in Portugal, is the starting point of the cruise. Your itinerary will give you a peek into the historical magic of Spain and Portugal in the best possible way. The gothic architecture and some of the most amazing wineries in the region will leave an unforgettable impression. The Douro River Valley is world-renowned for some exquisite and world-renowned wines in all of Europe.

4. Seine River Cruise The Seine River Cruise in Paris is the best way to experience Paris in its full glory. This one-hour tour takes you on a small voyage showcasing the splendid architectural marvel of the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre and the Notre Dame Cathedral. Enjoy some exquisite wine tasting and serenading music on the banks of Seine along the way. There are a lot of amazing tour operators that provide you with an unforgettable experience in the charming and loving city of Paris.


5. Bateaux Mouches Seine Cruise In Paris, the Bateaux Mouches Seine Cruise is known for its exceptional service and hospitable staff. The boats offered in this cruise have been in service since post-World War II, and are synonymous with Paris! On board, guests will learn about all of the rich history that comes along with being one of Europe's most celebrated destinations. 6. Elbe River Cruise Elbe River is a great place to see both nature and culture. This second-longest river in Germany has beautiful landscapes around various cities like Berlin, Magdeburg and Hamburg. You can also cruise its waters to explore other German cities like Prague from Berlin or Dresden on your way downriver towards Hamburg. Along the way you will experience opulent pasts of gothic architecture with colorful facades that welcome guests with fresh scents of calmness and tranquillity. 7. Moselle River Cruise The Moselle River cruise is a blend of charming German culture and the romantic vineyards and mountains of France. The Moselle River Cruise takes you along the captivating castles, fairy tale villages, and the most exquisite and famous wine regions. The river meets with the Rhine River at Koblenz in Germany and from there it changes its course from France and forms a boundary between Luxembourg and Germany. The cruise passes through the Trier’s city ruins, the breathtaking architecture of the city of Luxembourg and the taste of the world-renowned Rieslings.



Unlike ocean cruises that sail to the destination, river cruises sail through the destination. They are a great opportunity to experience your European adventure up close and personal while at the same time an excellent way to relax and enjoy a smaller ship with fewer passengers.


Ready to book a river cruise? Contact me, and let's discuss your ideas to begin the process. I work with all the major river cruise companies.

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