The Best River Cruises in Europe
The Ultimate River Escape: Indulge in Relaxation and Exploration
Calling all adventure seekers and relaxation enthusiasts! If you're looking for the ultimate holiday experience, a river cruise through Europe is the answer. We've carefully analyzed a variety of river cruises, taking into account key factors such as comfort, amenities, price, guest ratings, excursion, and activities in order to find the best river cruises in Europe. Whether you're yearning for cultural immersion, thrilling excursions, or simply a chance to unwind, these river journeys offer everything you could ask for, and more. Prepare to embark on a river cruise to Europe that will exceed your expectations and leave you with cherished memories.
The Best River Cruises through Europe
All tour prices are listed in US Dollars before taxes, and come from a base price that is reported by TourRadar. Peak season prices can vary significantly, particularly in destinations where seasonal travel fluctuates dramatically. While we do our best to evaluate all tours to maintain accuracy, always confirm the details directly with TourRadar or the tour company before booking. The information provided on this website is sourced directly from TourRadar and may change at any time.
Why does Europe appeal to river cruise passengers?
River cruises in Europe appeal to travelers for their relaxed pace, scenic views, and access to culturally rich, often less-touristed destinations. Rome, Istanbul, and Paris offer plenty of amazing museums and sights to explore. Rome is known for its iconic archaeological sites such as the Colosseum and the Roman Forum, as well as its gelato, Italian cuisine, and strong religious roots. Rome, Istanbul, and Paris are foodie destinations with fantastic cuisine and world-class restaurants. With easy, all-inclusive travel arrangements and immersive stops in culturally rich areas, river cruises provide a convenient and enriching way to explore multiple regions in comfort and style.
How much do River Cruises in Europe cost?
The average daily price of River Cruises in Europe is $396 per day. Prices can vary widely due to the included amenities, length of the trip, number of guests on the tour, and many other factors. If you want more information about prices, we have put together a complete analysis of the costs of River Cruises in Europe here.
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Which Tour Companies Offer River Cruises?
A number of fantastic tour companies offer river cruises in Europe. These are a few of the best, because they offer the highest rated service, provide the best overall quality, and have the most five-star guest reviews to prove it.
CroisiEurope River Cruises
Focusing on river cruise tours through France, Germany, Cambodia, and Vietnam, CroisiEurope River Cruises is a well established tour provider. Most participants on their tours are adults and their tours range in length from 2 days to 3 weeks. Some of their offerings cater to families with children. This company's tour offerings are generally priced lower than others, which makes them attractive for budget travelers.
See All Tours from CroisiEurope River Cruises
Avalon Waterways
Focusing on river cruise tours through Germany, France, Hungary, and the Netherlands, Avalon Waterways is a well established tour provider. Most participants on their tours are adults and their tours range in length from 5 days to 4 weeks. Some of their offerings cater to families with children. Most of the tours provided by Avalon Waterways are high-end and luxurious with a top-tier level of service.
See All Tours from Avalon Waterways
Lueftner Cruises
Lueftner Cruises offers local river cruise tours through Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, and others. Most participants are adults and the tours range in length from 5 days to 2 weeks. Some of their offerings cater to families with children. Many of their tours are priced in the mid-range category.
See All Tours from Lueftner Cruises
DCS Touristik
DCS Touristik offers local river cruise tours through Germany, Austria, Hungary, Slovakia, and others. Most participants are adults and the tours range in length from 3 days to 12 days. The company appeals to travelers of all ages, with many tours focusing on families with children. Budget travelers will appreciate the relative affordability of the company's offerings.
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River Cruise Destinations in Europe
Wondering where river cruise tours visit in Europe? With a variety of stops and destinations along the way, there's something for everyone.
Budapest
Budapest is the capital of Hungary. It's divided into two section, Buda, and Pest, which are separated by the Danube River and connected by the Chain Bridge. The Buda side is the hilly side. There's a funicular that runs up to the top of Castle Hill. The Pest side is flat with promenades and beautiful architecture. It also has a lively nightlife.
Set against the river, the city has beautiful buildings and nice parks.
Vienna
Vienna is the capital of Austria and its beautifully situated on the Danube River. It's an artistic city that has a long history of classical music including being home to such renowned musicians as Mozart and Beethoven. The city has many palaces and beautiful architecture.
The city has beautiful Baroque architecture and a livable atmosphere.
Amsterdam
Amsterdam is the capital city of the Netherlands and it is filled with canals and narrow row houses. The city is famous for its party-hard atmosphere, but it's also rich in history and culture. There are many famous museums, including the world renowned Rijksmuseum. Cycling is a huge part of the Dutch culture and you'll see bikers commuting everywhere in the city.
With its beautiful canals, historic churches, and relaxing parks, this is a beautiful city.
Cologne
Cologne is a city that combines both modern and historic features in a very compatible and fun style. From the impressive Cologne Cathedral to the many museums and outdoor spaces along the river, Cologne offers something for everyone. The city is also well connected to the rest of Germany and Europe with a very popular train station right in the heart of town.
You'll be greeted by the intricately designed Cologne Cathedral as you leave the train station. Old Town spreads out from this square and although many areas have been rebuilt, there city still offers a fascinating beauty.
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Other popular destinations for river cruise tours through Europe include Passau, Rudesheim am Rhein, Melk, Regensburg, and Mannheim.
Which is cheaper?
Are guided river cruises worth the money compared to independent travel? It depends on the specifics. Tours combine accommodations, meals, transport, tickets, and activities into a single cost, while independent travelers manage and pay for these individually. To determine which is more affordable, compare the tour's total price with what you'd spend booking everything separately. Preferences like staying in low-cost lodging or indulging in fine dining can influence whether a tour costs more or less. Make sure to check out the tour package to see what is included, or not, very carefully before deciding.
Also, before booking a tour, make sure you know exactly what is included as tour companies sometimes change their itineraries or included amenities to keep them updated with seasonal changes and customer interests.
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