European River Cruises
Europe's history, culture and hidden gems can be explored with a cruise along its picturesque rivers, canals and historic ports. Most of the great cities are along the banks of the Danube and the Volga rivers. The ports provide quick and easy access to world-famous attractions, museums and shopping districts without the hassle of transport connections.
A wide range of river cruises include the most popular European spots, ranging from a specialized tour of France's wine regions, to all inclusive luxury cruises or even international voyages from Amsterdam to Budapest.
The longest river in Europe is the Volga, which travels 3,692 kilometres through Russia from the Valdai Hills to the Caspian Sea. The second longest is the Danube at 2,860 kilometres, which passes through a total of 9 countries.
About the Destination
Europe is the third most populated continent, with a population of 733 million people living in 50 countries and sovereign states.
Most densely populated are Germany (81 million), France (65 million) and the United Kingdom (62 million). There are approx. 110 million people living in Eastern Europe.
English is spoken as a second language in many countries, especially in major tourism destinations. English-speaking guides and interpreters will be available to assist during cruise activities
As the European mainland spans four time zones, time differences may apply when crossing borders, for example when travelling between Eastern Europe and Central Europe.
Europe has four 4 distinct seasons. The seasons in southerly regions tend to be categorised as wet and dry.
The euro is the official currency of many European countries. Local currencies are required in the Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland, Sweden, Switzerland and Norway.
Main attractions
A River Seine tour of Paris combined with an excursion through the romantic Bordeaux countryside is a must. Float along the Garonne and Dordogne passing medieval towns, villages and vineyards and disembark to taste local wines and brandy in Cognac, on the way to the beaches of Arcachon on the Atlantic Coast.
Experience firsthand the treasures of Amsterdam by canal boat before moving on to The Hague and other parts of the Netherlands and Belgium.
Visit the famous landmarks of the Kremlin and Red Square, Catherine Palace and the State Hermitage Museum as you travel between the great cities of Moscow and Saint Petersburg on a Volga cruise.
Canal cruising is essential in the ‘floating city’ of Venice, plus you can explore Northern Italy's charm with a cruise along the River Po to Mantua, Bologna and Verona.
Many cruise itineraries include time on land to explore European cities and to visit museums, famous art galleries and shopping areas.
Cruise lines that sail there
A wide range of European and international cruise lines offer a great variety of cruises in this region. Viking Cruises operate multiple routes with 13 vessels, while APT Cruising, Scenic and Uniworld River Cruises focus on major routes of the Danube, Main, Moselle, Rhine and Rhone rivers.
Luxury cruises with all-inclusive food, drink and activities are offered through Avalon Waterways and Tauck River Cruising. There are also great family-friendly cruise options.
When to go
The cruise season in Europe is from April to October. Northern Europe experiences shorter summers, while southern destinations in the Mediterranean offer cruising all year round.
Some river cruises operate outside of the peak season, specifically in early spring to see the tulips in bloom in the Netherlands and cruises of Christmas markets in December.
Find out more about European River Cruises >