The Danube River
The Danube is Europe’s second-longest river. Located in East and Central Europe, the Danube begins in Black Forest, Germany and touches Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Romania, Bulgaria, Moldova, and Ukraine before ending at the Black Sea.
Where You’ll Go
Depending on your selection, a Danube river cruise will take you through several of the countries listed above. You’ll be able to visit cities such as Munich and Passau in Germany; Budapest, Hungary; Vienna and Linz in Austria; and Bratislava, Slovakia. During these stops, you can also visit locations such as Cesky Krumlov in the Czech Republic; Salzburg, Austria; and the Wachau Valley near Vienna.
What You’ll See
As you sail along the Danube, you’ll be treated to views of vineyards, small towns, and the remains of ancient castles. This itinerary is full of history, giving you the opportunity to visit the Benedictine Abbey, the birthplace of Mozart, and the Lipizzaner Stallions at the Spanish Riding School. This Europe river cruise offers the chance to experience Europe’s cultures, history, and diversity at its best.
The Douro River
Unlike the more popular rivers, such as the Danube and Rhône, the Douro is a relatively new and less-known river cruise location. Starting at the city of Duruelo de la Sierra, Spain, the Douro winds through Spain and Portugal to its end in the Atlantic Ocean in Porto, Portugal.
Where You’ll Go
Douro river cruises begin in Porto, a hillside city that is famous for its delicious wine lodges, and end in Vega de Terron, a city on the Spanish border, because the river is unnavigable beyond this point. As you sail through Portugal, your trip will include stops in Lamego, Regua, and Pinhao. This trip also offers the chance to take excursions to the cities and sights of Lisbon, Salamanca, and Barca d'Alva.
What You’ll See
A Douro river cruise is best for those who want a trip of rest and relaxation, filled with views of beautiful, rural scenery. On your stops, you can taste fine wines, visit an 18th-century pilgrimage church, and explore the ancient structures in Lamego. It’s important to note that while there are a few full-day city sightseeing options, many of these locations can be explored in just a few hours or less, making this a more laid-back cruise option.
The Rhône/Saône River
Originally named “Rodo,” which means “that which rolls,” by the Celts, the Rhône river flows from the Swiss Alps to the Mediterranean Sea. This 1,233-kilometer river meets the French Saône river at Lyon, France, where the two rivers become one, and continues on as the Rhône.
Where You’ll Go
During your Rhône cruise, you will depart from Chalon-sur-Saône or Lyon and begin your journey through the French countryside. This journey includes stops in the cities of Mâcon, Arles, Vienne, Tournon, Viviers, Avignon, and Tarascon.
What You’ll See
During this cruise, you’ll be treated to a spectacular view of France’s wine country. During your daytime stops, you can venture out to the Beaujolais’ ‘Golden Stone’ region for wine tasting, explore the hidden traboules in Lyon, or visit the Pope’s Palace in Avignon. Enrich your journey by shopping with a chef at a local market, taking cooking classes, or joining a bicycle tour.
The Rhine/Moselle River
Like the Danube, the Rhine river is rich with culture and history. From its beginning in the Swiss Alps to its end in the North Sea, the Rhine river moves through Austria, Germany, Switzerland, France, Liechtenstein, and the Netherlands. It is joined by the Moselle river in Koblenz, Germany.
Where You’ll Go
A Rhine river cruise takes you to some of Europe’s most historic cities, such as Koblenz and Strasbourg. You can also visit Amsterdam, Vienna, Budapest, Bucharest, and several other cities through Europe.
What You’ll See
The Rhine offers access to castles, vineyards, cathedrals, medieval villages, and more along its banks. You can explore history, wine and dine, shop, and learn about the legends associated with this beautiful river as you sail through the wealth of Europe’s history and culture.
The Seine River
Beginning in Northern France, the Seine river flows through Paris and Normandy before it ends in the English Channel. The second-longest river in France, the Seine offers something for nature lovers, history buffs, and art lovers alike.
Where You’ll Go
As you journey through France, you’ll visit cities such as Paris, Les Andelys, Rouen, Conflans, and several more. You can visit Normandy Beaches in Honfleur or the village of Giverny, where Claude Monet lived and painted, during your daytime excursions.
What You’ll See
The stops along the Seine are rich with history, offering the chance to visit the Palace of Versailles, the ruins of Richard the Lionheart’s Chateau Gaillard, and the site of Joan of Arc’s martyrdom. Monet’s gardens in Giverny are perfect for a quiet stroll, while Paris offers shopping, food, and tourism opportunities for everyone.
Before you select your Europe river cruise, decide which countries you want to see and how long you want your trip to take. If you can’t visit every location you want, just remember: there’s always next year.
