A river cruise is a perfect option for a unique and immersive way to explore. Having accommodation always sorted at the end of busy days and being right in the heart of districts and cities makes it a comfortable way to enjoy a trip. Hop on and off at your own pace and enjoy the calming travel along waters with few waves and extensive views across landscapes. Read this guide on river cruises in Europe to find out more.
Whether you want to be in the midst of the countryside, close to the shore or in the heart of a bustling city, there are rivers across Europe to make for the perfect travel base. From floating beside the Eiffel Tower as it sparkles, to seeing the cultural richness of the Duoro Valley, there is a cruise ideal for every traveller.
Get the buzz of seeing so much in one trip, with the peace and assurance a cruise brings. Here are five top-pick rivers in Europe.
Seine river
Running over 480 miles through Northern France from Paris to the English Channel, the River Seine is the perfect way to connect a Parisian dream with a rejuvenating trip to the rural side of France. The capital is the most common starting point for River Seine cruises and the wealth of landmarks to see make it a memorable way to start. See the city of lights literally come alive with illuminations that are sure to create the most memorable start.
Another key region worth seeing on a cruise down the Seine is the historic land that makes up Normandy. The famous D-Day landing beaches were a crucial spot during the 1944 Second World War. Today, alongside a monument on the sands, travellers can visit the moving tributes who lost their lives during this time. Recognise the importance of these fighters that’s still so apparent across Normandy today.
Soane River
If a full French affair is the craving, head from the Seine to the Soane! Journey through Eastern France, where a rich history meets natural beauty and an indulgent foodie scene. Many cruises here tend to start or end in Lyon. It is the third-largest city in the country and one known for its food!
Feel like a local exploring the UNESCO-protected Old Town that’s full of Renaissance architecture lining narrow cobblestone streets. Perch up in a lively cafe for the perfect mid-morning caffeine fix, that’s sure to get you falling in love with the surroundings.
Head on one of the available barge cruises in Burgundy, where you can explore the world-class wineries, historic architecture and pristine countryside. Explore the Old Town of Beaune, which is often a central stop during Burgundy cruises. With local shops, markets and historic buildings, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time into a story!
Tour local villages along the riverside, where well-preserved architecture stands in the heart of livelihoods. Tournus is home to the Abbey of Saint-Philibert, which is a Romanesque Chruch still standing from the 10th century! It’s sure to feel like a fairytale along this riverside.
Duoro River
Spanning through Northern Spain and Westward through Portugal, a cruise down the Duoro River is a scenic sail. It takes you through UNESCO World Heritage Sites, iconic wineries and vineyards, and vibrant livelihoods. As Porto is where the river meets the Atlantic Ocean, expect to start or finish cruises here amid a colourful cityscape and the second-largest in the country after the capital.
Explore the array of terraced vineyards and quintas (wine estates) for a true taste of Portugal. The Duoro Valley is world-renowned for its hand-harvested grapes that produce synonymous Port wines and other robust tipples. Learn about the winemaking process traditions and be sure to pick up a bottle, or two, of your favourites to enjoy during travel time.
In the Spanish regions of the river, hop off at Salamanca if you get the chance. The UNESCO World Heritage Site is the perfect symbol of Spain and Spanish culture, thanks to its stunning architecture and local flare. Be sure to get the taste for sangria here and see how wine traditions differ between the two countries en route.
Danube River
Flowing through central Europe and passing 10 different countries, Danube River cruises are perfect for seeing the different cultures across the continent. From the renowned capitals of Vienna, Budapest and Bratislava, to hidden gem spots throughout Germany and Hungary, a cruise here provides the perfect mix of everything.
Explore Hungary’s capital, Budapest, and see the wealth of history from the Castle to the ‘shoes on the Danube’ landmark. Spend an evening taking in the illuminations of the cityscape and the bustling international culture presence.
As you head into the Hungarian countryside, embrace the vast contrasts from the capital. Learn the rich significance of the arts in Austria’s Vienna and delve into the loved cafe scene for morning pick-me-ups too. Immerse in a world of possibilities of routes, durations and activities on offer with a Danube cruise.
Rhine River
One of Europe’s longest rivers that starts in the glorious Swiss Alps, the Rhine River stretches over 750 miles. It is the perfect choice for lengthier cruises. Hop off amid landscapes and enjoy the true adventure of travel through scenic cycling and walking paths.
As it empties into the Northern Sea in Rotterdam, finish a cruise exploring this beloved city in the Netherlands. Often dubbed as the ‘gateway to Europe’ due to hosting one of the world’s busiest ports, see how vital this city is to the rest of the continent. Despite this modern infrastructure, it still hosts a cultural scene of museums, galleries, theatres and music venues. Enjoy a vibrant night scene and the perfect end to a river cruise.
Make cross-continent travel easier via a river cruise. See an array of landscapes both renowned and lesser known to come away with the perfect taste of classic European life. Make it a cruise to remember, through river travel.
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