Cruising is one of the more luxurious ways of travelling. Whether you’re crossing the seas in an ocean liner, undertaking an expedition to Antarctica, or navigating the world's rivers, cruises offer you the chance to take things at your own pace. With a cruise to suit everyone - from fast paced onboard theme parks, to shopping malls, to theatre, and more, it’s truly one of the better ways to travel. Especially through Europe. When cruising along Europe’s many rivers, you will be dazzled by ancient ruins, medieval marvels and breathtaking countryside. So with that in mind, we’re unpacking below how to plan the perfect European river cruise.
If you’re a beginner and are just exploring what it’s like to do a river cruise, then you’re in safe hands here. There are a couple of things to consider when you’re looking at exploring Europe’s rivers by boat.
- First, identify which river you want to cruise along, as Europe has many beautiful and far-stretching rivers that pass through ancient villages, medieval ruins and iconic destinations.
- Second, you’ll want to identify which cruise line is right for you. There are many on offer, each with their own unique onboard amenities and benefits.
- Third, you’ll want to consider what sort of experiences you want to have. Whilst some cruise lines offer rich and engaging onboard experiences, others focus more on the cultural experiences that you’ll have off the ship.
Already got a plan, and just ready to book? Get in touch with a Flight Centre Cruise Specialist today who can help you organise your dream river cruising experience.
Cruise lines to consider
When it comes down to choosing which cruise line to go with, it can be difficult to decide. If you’re an inexperienced cruiser, then they can all look pretty similar, but when you get down to it, they each have their own unique benefits and differences which set them apart. From onboard libraries, to a detailed focus on cultural experiences on shore, there’s a cruise line to suit everybody.
Note that amenities listed below for each cruise line may vary depending on the ship you’re boarding.
Avalon Waterways
Avalon Waterways
Avalon Waterways
Avalon Waterways
If you’re seeking a refined balance of comfort and adventure, whilst getting to sleep luxuriously in well-appointed staterooms, then Avalon Waterways is the choice for you. First off the block, you’ll get to experience their signature Panorama Suites with floor-to-ceiling windows which transform your stateroom, in an instant, into a front-row seat to Europe’s most striking riverscapes. On board you’ll enjoy sparkling wine with breakfast each morning, exquisite shaded loungers to watch the far-stretching European countryside roll by, and mouthwatering dishes crafted by expert chefs. Recline or get active, at your own pace.
Depending on your budget requirements, you can also choose from their Classic, Active, or Discovery experiences which include excursions and sightseeing with certified local guides! Classic tends to delve into historical exploration, Active leans more to hiking and cycling, whilst Discovery is about food, art and culture. This gives you the freedom and flexibility to customise your cruise experience around what you want to do.
Avalon Waterways offers river cruises through the Danube, the Rhine, the Seine and the Rhône, amongst others, giving you flexibility in finding a river that works for you, and exploring the countries that interest you most.
Uniworld Boutique River Cruises
Uniworld pride themselves on offering you a boutique, hotel-style experience. Each ship is uniquely decorated to match the culture and aesthetic of its route - picture Venetian elegance on the ship that passes through Italy, or chateau flair in France. They offer intimate, personalised service to your stateroom and boast thematic restaurants on board, relaxing bars and lounges, spa services, libraries and much more to make your holiday experience elevated and memorable.
As for the destinations that you’ll experience, Uniworld sails down the Danube, Rhine, Seine and Rhône amongst others, including the Douro in Portugal. With stops in various towns and villages along the way, you can head off board with a bicycle or a nordic walking stick and experience Europe like a local! By day you can roam through markets, experience local theatre and marvel at ancient ruins, before returning to your ship by night to indulge in delicious meals and quality entertainment.
Uniworld Boutique River Cruises are usually suited for an older demographic, or for those with a bit more loose change to spare as it tends more towards all-inclusive travel and bespoke experiences. Lovers of art and design will also enjoy Uniworld cruises.
APT
APT is a well trusted and well known cruise line that combines Australian hospitality with award-winning service. Their luxury cruises are seamless, beautifully curated and seamlessly interconnect guided land and cruise travel. You’ll feel right at home on an APT cruise, with its signature Australasian design and feel - it will be familiar, no matter which river you’re navigating.
This cruise line will take you down the Danube, Rhine, Rhône, Douro and Seine with outstanding shore excursions and their well-known Signature Experiences. Their Signature Experiences are a cut above, and are guaranteed to help you create some truly unique memories you’ll carry for life! Imagine dining like royalty in a European castle, attending a private concert or going behind the scenes to see how the locals live. This, and more, is on offer as part of your APT cruise.
APT is ideal for Kiwi and Aussie travellers, as well as retirees and suits anyone who is looking for well-organised tours, reliable guides and enriching travel experiences.
Viking Cruises
Viking Cruises
Viking Cruises
Viking Cruises
This well-known, worldwide brand has been in the cruising game for years, and they know how to create elevated and immersive experiences. With a focus on cultural immersion, and boasting elegant Scandinavian interiors, you’ll find that their longships are sleek, adult-only and designed for the more intrepid traveller.
Onboard you’ll dive into a world of refinement and discovery, from stylish restaurants and a sun deck with herb gardens and walking tracks, through to the library and enrichment lectures. Whilst Viking does prefer to focus more on the cultural experiences you’ll have, rather than keeping you onboard, you’ll still find things to be enthralling at every moment. Onshore, you’ll experience wine tastings, destination talks, classical performances and cultural demonstrations that are designed to immerse you, intimately, in the rich culture and heritage of each destination you’ll visit.
Viking Cruises cover worldwide locations, but in Europe they do the Danube, Rhine, Elbe, Seine, and Rhône in particular. Better suited to an older demographic, Viking Cruises will appeal to history lovers, art enthusiasts, or those who love being taken along for guided excursions and expert talks.
Pairing with Tours
With most European river cruises, you’ll pass through many different countries and destinations. Whilst some cruise companies, like APT, offer an easy way to pair up with tour groups before or after your cruise, this may not always be the case, or may not always offer what you’re looking for. Imagine hopping off your Rhine River cruise, in the Netherlands and joining a 10-day tour exploring iconic food and drink destinations, or arriving in Germany and then boarding a cross-land train experience. With so much on offer in Europe, it’s easy to extend your cruise with additional experiences, and stay locally for just a bit longer!
Check out some of the amazing European Tours that we have on offer. Whether you’re seeking something more active, more social or more focused on excellent food and drink, we’re certain to have something that’ll be just what you’re after!
Iconic Destinations to Start From
Once you’ve chosen your cruise line, or perhaps even before, it’s time to consider which river you want to explore. The Rhine, Seine, Danube and Rhône are amongst the most popular rivers to explore in Europe. Beneath we’ve outlined what each river cruise could look like, however this may vary by operator. Keep in mind that this is just an overview of four of the most popular rivers, however there are many, many others. Chat to your Travel Expert or Cruise Specialist to unpack what options are available for the rivers you want to explore.
The Rhine River
This western Europe route could include Switzerland to the Netherlands, via Germany and France. The second-longest river in central and western Europe, the Rhine is one of the most iconic, photographed and beloved waterways that has held significant cultural and historical importance over the years.
What could you expect to see or experience along a Rhine river cruise?
- Ancient towering castles and vibrant vineyards dotted along the Rhine Gorge.
- Heidelberg, Cologne’s cathedral, and Strasbourg’s famous timber-framed houses.
- Amsterdam’s canals and stunning art museums.
- Stop in at towns and villages that seem straight out of a fairytale and discover rich medieval history and wine tastings.
Seine River, Paris
Seine River, Paris
Seine River, Paris
The Seine River
This northern France route could include Paris to the Normandy Coast. The Seine is iconic and from its name alone, people can envision the picturesque French countryside with flowing lavender fields, artistic wonders and iconic battlegrounds.
What could you expect to see or experience along a Seine river cruise?
- Lovers of food and wine will be in heaven here, as you’ll experience beautiful French wines and delicious cuisine as you explore. Truly that iconic Provençal charm that you can envision when you imagine the rolling valleys of the French countryside.
- Pop in to explore Monet’s gardens at Giverny.
- Explore Rouen’s Gothic architecture, and explore the history of Joan of Arc.
- If you’re intrigued by history, then you can see the D-Day landing beaches, and explore the Bayeux tapestry.
Danube River
Danube River
Danube River
The Danube River
A central & eastern Europe route could include Germany to Romania, via Austria, Slovakia and Hungary. As the second-longest river in Europe, the Danube traverses through many different countries and has been a cornerstone of historical import. History buffs and architecture enthusiasts will love cruising down the Danube as it offers impressive views of historical landmarks and breathtaking landscapes. Plus, it’s a great choice for first-time cruisers.
What could you expect to see or experience along a Danube river cruise?
- Vienna’s stunning imperial palaces and coffee houses.
- Melk Abbey, and Wachau Valley Vineyards.
- Budapest’s iconic Chain Bridge and their amazing thermal spas.
- Medieval towns like Dürnstein and Passau.
The Rhône River
Sailing the Rhône could see you journeying from Lyon to Avignon/Arles. Southern France is picturesque and striking, offering you an intimate look into the artistic and storied history of this region. Wine connoisseurs and foodies will be in heaven exploring the Rhône as you get to sample its signature Provençal charm.
What could you expect to see or experience along a Rhône river cruise?
- Roman ruins, rolling lavender fields and the iconic Châteauneuf-du-Pape vineyards.
- Art galleries celebrating Van Gogh’s artistic legacy.
- Sample and indulge in Lyon’s Michelin-starred cuisine.
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Ready to dive into exploring Europe’s many rivers? With a Flight Centre Travel Expert by your side, it’s easy to get started on planning your excursion to Europe. Get in touch with us today, to transform your dreams into a reality.
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