The Best River Cruises in Western Europe

Which Tour Companies Offer River Cruises?

A number of fantastic tour companies offer river cruises in Western 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.

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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.

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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.

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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 Western Europe

Wondering where river cruise tours visit in Western Europe? With a variety of stops and destinations along the way, there's something for everyone.

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.

Strasbourg

Strasbourg is located in the northeastern part of France near the German border. You'll find both French and German influences in the food, architecture, and culture and the city is considered on of the most beautiful in the region. It is also filled with impressive landmarks, many of which are found in the old town.

It is a charming and beautiful city that is filled with gardens, parks, pedestrian streets, and impressive architecture.

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Other popular destinations for river cruise tours through Western Europe include Passau, Rudesheim am Rhein, Melk, Regensburg, and Mannheim.

Which is cheaper?

Can you save money by traveling independently instead of joining guided river cruises? It's not a simple yes or no. Tours usually include key expenses such as lodging, transportation, meals, entry fees, guides, and activities, which you'd need to manage and pay for individually on your own trip. To figure out the difference, compare the total tour price with the cost of making your own arrangements. Depending on your choices—like opting for budget hotels or premium dining—the cost of a tour might be higher or lower. Be sure to examine the tour inclusions carefully when comparing.

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.

More Tour Options

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