European River Cruises

Explore the Enchantment of European River Cruises with CruiseAway

Embarking on a cruise along the **European River** offers an unforgettable journey through some of the continent’s most picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and vibrant cities. River cruising provides a unique perspective, bringing you closer to the heart of Europe as you meander through famous waterways like the Danube, Rhine, and Seine. Imagine sipping local wine on your balcony while you float past fairy-tale castles and lush vineyards. Fun fact: The Rhine River is one of the most important shipping routes in the world, with a history dating back to Roman times! It’s no wonder that river cruises have become increasingly popular, giving cruisers a relaxing way to explore hidden gems and immerse themselves in European culture.

Must-Visit Harbours on European River Cruises

When cruising the **European River**, you’ll dock at several captivating harbours. Here are five you won’t want to miss:

• Vienna, Austria: This imperial city is known for its stunning architecture and rich cultural heritage. While there, don’t miss the chance to visit **Schönbrunn Palace**, stroll through the **Vienna State Opera**, and unwind at the beautiful **Belvedere Gardens**. Insider tip: Sample some local Sachertorte (chocolate cake) at a traditional coffee house to get a real taste of Viennese culture!
• Strasbourg, France: A blend of French and German cultures, Strasbourg is famous for its charming canals and timber-framed houses. Explore the **Grande Île**, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and visit the beautiful **Strasbourg Cathedral**. Pro tip: Take a boat tour through the canals for a unique view of the city’s stunning architecture!
• Budapest, Hungary: Known for its stunning skyline and vibrant nightlife, Budapest is a city of thermal baths and majestic views. Be sure to check out **Buda Castle**, enjoy the mesmerizing lights along the **Danube River**, and indulge in a soak at the **Széchenyi Thermal Bath**. Insider tip: Listen for live music in the ruins bars for an evening filled with unique Hungarian experiences!
• Amsterdam, Netherlands: With its iconic canals and vibrant atmosphere, Amsterdam invites exploration. Visit the **Rijksmuseum** to see masterpieces, walk through the enchanting **Jordaan** neighbourhood, or take a relaxed cycle around the city. Pro tip: Consider renting a bike to explore like a local and make stops at charming cafés along the way!
• Cologne, Germany: Famous for the imposing **Cologne Cathedral**, this city features a vibrant arts scene and picturesque scenery. Explore the **Old Town** for delightful shops and cafés or consider a visit to the **Chocolate Museum** for sweet treats. Insider tip: Join a local brewery tour to sample the city’s famed Kölsch beer!

Best Times to Cruise the European River

The best time for a river cruise generally falls between **April and October**, where you can enjoy mild to warm weather, typically ranging from **15°C to 28°C**. The shoulder seasons—**April to June** and **September to October**—present the ideal mix of pleasant weather, fewer crowds, and competitive pricing. The summer months of **July and August** see a significant influx of tourists and higher prices, but you’ll also have longer days for exploring.

Cost of Cruising in the European River Region

When planning your European river cruise budget, a one-week cruise will typically cost between **$1,500 and $3,000**, whereas a two-week cruise might range from **$3,500 to $7,000**. Luxury cruise options start around **$4,500** for a week. The best times to secure competitive pricing are during the shoulder seasons. Prices are generally highest from **June to August** as families take advantage of school holidays. Traditional dining costs around **$15 to $40** per meal in local restaurants, making it easy to budget for meals while enjoying the regional flavours.

Prominent River Cruise Lines Offering European Adventures

• CroisiEurope: With a large fleet of **38 ships**, **34** operate on **European rivers**. The top ships, **Mona Lisa** and **L’Europe**, cruise from **Strasbourg** and **Lyon**. Known for their competitive pricing and excellent onboard amenities, CroisiEurope offers a more intimate cruising experience, perfect for those looking for a more personal touch in their river exploration.
• A-ROSA: This cruise line features **12 ships**, all providing itineraries to the **European rivers**. Top ships, **A-ROSA DONNA** and **A-ROSA BRAVA**, regularly depart from locations like **Cologne** and **Engelhartszell**. A-ROSA provides an inclusive experience, featuring gourmet dining and wellness facilities onboard, making it a great choice for relaxation and rejuvenation.
• Viking River Cruises: With a robust fleet of **63 ships**, **58** are dedicated to cruising the **European rivers**. Notable vessels **Viking Gefjon** and **Viking Lofn** often set sail from **Amsterdam** or **Basel**. Viking is known for its destination-focused experiences, enriching itineraries, and immersive cultural experiences that engage passengers in the local history and traditions.
• Oceania Cruises: This line consists of **eight ships**, with **two** providing itineraries to the **European rivers**—**Sirena** and **Vista**. These depart primarily from ports including **Stockholm** and **Antwerp**. Oceania is renowned for its culinary excellence, offering exquisite dining experiences onboard alongside thoughtful shore excursions.
• Silversea: Featuring a fleet of **13 ships**, **three** operate on the **European rivers**. **Silver Dawn** and **Silver Spirit** focus on luxury and intimate experiences, departing from **Southampton** or **Belfast**. Silversea provides all-inclusive options for their guests, with elite service that caters to the needs of each passenger, ensuring tailored experiences on every cruise.

Luxury and Small Ship Options

• Regent Seven Seas Cruises: This luxury cruise line comprises **six ships**, with **three** sailing on the **European rivers**. The **Seven Seas Mariner** and **Seven Seas Voyager** often cruise from **Southampton** or **Antwerp**. Regent stands out for their all-inclusive luxury services, which cover shore excursions, fine dining, and premium beverages, providing an unmatched cruising experience.
• Azamara Cruises: This cruise line includes **four ships**, two of which cruise the **European rivers**: **Azamara Quest** and **Azamara Journey**. Departing from locations like **Bordeaux** and **Portsmouth**, Azamara focuses on providing immersive experiences, with longer port stays allowing for deeper exploration of local sights and cultures.

Alternative Regions to Consider

If you’re interested in cruising the **European River** but want to explore other fantastic regions, consider the following alternatives:

• Mediterranean: This region offers stunning coastlines and multicultural experiences, perfect for those who love sun, sea, and history.
• Southern Europe: A treasure trove of rich history and breathtaking landscapes, perfect for those looking to visit world-renowned landmarks and indulge in exquisite Mediterranean cuisine.
• Western Europe: This area is filled with vibrant cities, historical significance, and a cultural tapestry that spans centuries—ideal for history buffs!
• Norwegian Fjords: Known for its spectacular scenery and unique seaside villages, it’s a stunning alternative for nature lovers.
• Eastern Europe: Rich in history, Eastern Europe offers unique cultures and diverse landscapes that cater to various traveller interests.

A river cruise through **European Rivers** invites you to uncover hidden gems, admire breathtaking views, and indulge in local cultures that will leave you with immeasurable memories. Don’t delay in booking your next great adventure with **CruiseAway**—the rivers of Europe are calling your name!