Gems Along Europe’s Rivers with the Best River Cruises

Explore Europe along one of its grand rivers for a picturesque journey to the continent’s heart. From the enchanting Rhine to the serene Danube, river cruises unlock unique vistas, cultural experiences, and hidden gems not typically accessible by road or rail.

The Rhine River Cruise: Castles and Vineyards

Starting with the mighty Rhine, which winds through Switzerland, Germany, and the Netherlands, this river is synonymous with fairy-tale scenery. Aboard a river cruise, you’ll be treated to views of medieval castles perched on hilltops and endless vineyards.

Admire all the stunning scenery aboard Viking’s 15 day Grand European River Cruise, taking guests from Amsterdam to Budapest along the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers. Admire vistas from a 900-year-old castle, sample the food and wine of Austria’s Wachau Valley, learn the Viennese waltz and linger in Budapest’s Cafe Gerbeaud.

Why We Love Viking Cruises

Onboard, you will experience Viking’s famous ships, which offer luxurious amenities, high-quality dining experiences, and a complimentary shore excursion in most ports.

Key stops often include Cologne, its iconic Gothic cathedral, and Koblenz, where the Rhine meets the Moselle River. Don’t miss visiting the Lorelei Rock near Sankt Goarshausen, famous for its legendary siren lore.

The Finer Details

• Everything you need is included, with no surprise or hidden fees
• Destination-focused and culturally enriching
• Variety of shore excursions
• Onboard enrichment to enhance onshore discovery
• Award-winning service
• Onboard gratuities
• Regional cuisine available at multiple restaurants
• Visit UNESCO Sites

Who’s It For?

Those who want to see the most that Europe has to offer this is the tour for you! Over the 15 days you sail with Viking you will pass through five countries along the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers.

Viking Cruise Breakdown

Day 1 – Amsterdam

After checking onto your ship the day is yours to explore Amsterdam, visit the Rijksmuseum, or the van Gogh Museum next door.

Day 2 – Kinderdijk

At Kinderdiijk, a UNESCO World Heritage site, you will see the famed Netherlands windmills before returning onboard to indulge in some Dutch delights Dutch cheeses and jenever, a distilled juniper liquor.

Day 3 – Cologne

Start your day in Germany, Stroll through Old Town Cologne, past heritage sites and the atmospheric waterfront. Finish your day with a crisp beer, of course!

Day 4 – Koblenz

Cruise past hilltop castles along the Rhine, stopping in Koblenz to visit Marksburg Castle be sure to keep an eye out for the Lorelei Rock, which marks the river’s narrowest point and is named after the legendary Rhine maiden who lured sailors to their demise.

Day 5 – Miltenberg

Move from the Rhine to the beautiful Main River as it winds through the Sessart region. Take in the tiny houses in Miltenbeg during the afternoon and visit Germany’s oldest inn for a traditional Stine.

Day 6 – Wurzburg

Experience Germany’s picturesque “Romantic Road” to Rothenburg, with its turreted city wall and impressive Gothic and baroque architecture. Upon returning to Würzburg, enjoy a tour of the Bishops’ Residenz, one of Germany’s largest and most ornate baroque palaces and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Day 7 – Bamberg

Continue along the Main–Danube Canal this morning, arriving in Bamberg in the early afternoon. Enjoy a tour of Bamberg, with its medieval city center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Take some free time to enjoy Bamberg and sample some of the town’s distinctive smoke-flavoured beer before returning on board.

Day 8 – Nuremberg

Visit the ruins of Zeppelin Field, the Nazi parade grounds of the 1930s, then see the Palace of Justice, site of the infamous Nuremberg Trials. Spend free time exploring Nuremberg’s Old Town. Or, join an optional tour to discover the secret network of underground bunkers where priceless art was hidden in wartime.

Day 9 – Regensburg

Tour this wonderfully preserved medieval city, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, including structures dating back to Roman times. Discover many 13th- and 14th-century patrician houses and see the splendid St. Peter’s Cathedral. During your free time, visit the Alte Würstküche (Old Sausage Kitchen), Germany’s oldest restaurant.

Day 10 – Passau

Arrive this morning in Passau, at the confluence of the Inn, Ilz and Danube Rivers. Your guided walk along the town’s narrow streets takes you through Old Town and past traditional patrician houses.

Day 11 – Melk

Visit the abbey at Melk, a 900-year-old Benedictine monastery featuring Austria’s finest Italian baroque architecture. Cruise through the spectacular Wachau Valley this afternoon. Before dinner, you have time to explore the time-honoured town of Krems and see the Steiner Tor, the last remaining city gate, or take an optional excursion to a local winery to sample some local vintages from this famous wine-producing region.

Day 12 to 13 – Vienna

Ride along the Ringstrasse, which replaced the city walls in the mid-19th century. See some of the city’s baroque architecture, including the world-famous Opera House, St. Stephen’s Cathedral and Hofburg Palace, before exploring this great city alone in the afternoon.

Day 14 – Budapest

The Danube River divides Hungary’s capital city into the once-separate towns of Buda and Pest. Explore both sides, starting with Pest’s National Opera House and historic Heroes’ Square. In Buda, walk along Castle Hill to Fisherman’s Bastion and Matthias Church. Pend the afternoon exploring at your own pace before returning to your ship for a traditional Hungarian dinner.

Getting There

A Rhine River cruise can perfectly complement your European journey. Combining air travel with river cruising offers a deeper, more immersive experience of each region’s culture and landscape. Take a look at our latest European airfare deals here or contact one of our travel specialists to find the best airfare and river cruise for you.

The Danube River Cruise: From Capitals to Countryside

The Danube, Europe’s second-longest river, flows through 10 countries, more than any other river on the continent. Cruise along the Danube with Emerald Cruises, weaving through the heart of Europe, touring the beautiful cities, towns, and villages that dot the riverbanks, and sample the finest wines and cuisine.

Why We Love This River Cruise

This 13 day cruise introduces guests to exhilarating cultures and traditions, sailing through bustling capitals like Vienna, Bratislava, and Budapest, each brimming with history and vibrant nightlife.

The Finer Details

• Visit the stunning Melk Abbey and Wachau Valley
• Guided tours of Vienna and Bratislava
• Culinary tour of Budapest with Grand Market visit
• Onboard enrichment
• Active shore excursions
• Complimentary meals, wine, beer and soft drinks
• Three nights at a hotel in Prague
• Afternoon tea at Lobkowicz Palace

Who’s This River Cruise For?

If you are looking to explore more of central Europe, cruising along the Danube with Emerald Cruises is for you! Visit all the major cities in this area and admire the passing farmland, villages, and towns as you cruise. This 13 day cruise is also excellent for wine lovers as you can sample Chardonnay and Pinot Blanc as you wander riverside vineyards.

Emerald Cruise Breakdown

Day 1 to 3 – Prague

Start your tour with a 3-night stay at a Prague hotel, with time to explore the city independently before joining a guided walking tour, exploring castle courtyards, cathedrals and the Old Town of Prague.

Day 4 to 5 – Passau

After exploring the ship, your home away from home, you will be able to experience the costumes and traditions of Bavarian culture, including sampling some homemade specialties!

Day 6 – Linz

During your first day in the Czech Republic, you can visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed town of Ceský Krumlov. This quaint town has one of the best-preserved ancient centres in Europe.

Day 7 – Melk

Enjoy cruising along the Danube River before exploring the folden halls of the Melk Abbey. After this group tour, you can participate in one of the many Emerald activities, including hiking, bike tours, and wine tasting.

Day 8 – Vienna

Discover the charms of Vienna, cafes, artisan studios, and the baroque majesty of Vienna.

Day 9 – Vienna to Bratislava

After a leisurely morning in Vienna, sail onto Bratislava and, on the way, marvel at the ever-changing scenery of the Danube.

Day 10 to 13 – Budapest

Sail into Hungary and the magnificent city of Budapest, the Pearl of the Danube. The day is yours to explore this amazing city.

After a day of taking Budapest, you will have the chance to experience some traditional folklore at a truly immersive dinner.

Getting To Your Cruise

Let our team of travel specialists get you there in comfort and style, so you arrive feeling ready to explore these captivating cities, creating a seamless, expansive travel experience.

The Seine River Cruise: A French Affair

No river cruise roundup is complete without mentioning the Seine in France. Originating just outside Paris, the Seine wanders through some of Normandy’s most idyllic places, including Rouen and Honfleur. There is no better way to experience France for its most famous rivers, the Seine and the Rhone, than onboard a 15 day Viking River Cruise from Paris to Avignon. The highlight, of course, is the journey into the heart of Paris itself, where cruisers can enjoy up-close views of the Eiffel Tower, Notre Dame, and other Parisian landmarks from the unique perspective of the river.

Why We Love It

This river cruise will immerse you in everything French, from food and wine to landmarks. See Palaces, indulge in local delights, toast centuries-old vineyards and celebrate the sophistication of Paris.

The Finer Details

• Complimentary shore excursions
• Beer, wine and soft drinks with onboard lunch and dinner
• Visits to UNESCO sites
• Onboard Enrichment
• Onboard Gratuities
• Stroll centuries-old vineyards
• Destination-focused and culturally enriching
• Award-winning service
• Regional cuisine available at multiple restaurants

Who’s This River Cruise For?

If you have a deep appreciation for all things French, this cruise is for you. Fully immerse yourself in the culture and sense of joie de vivre for French life! View stunning works of art and indulge in culinary delights and, of course, champagne!

Viking River Cruise Breakdown

Day 1 and 2 – Paris

Meet your award-winning river ship in the heart of the city, just a short stroll from the Eiffel Tower, before touring the dazzling city and remarkable sights on day two.

Day 3 – La Roche-Guyon and Vernon

After cruising the Seine overnight, it is time to explore one of France’s most beautiful villages. Stroll through the town’s narrow streets lined with picturesque houses and explore the area Monet called home before his death.

Day 4 – Rouen

Spend the morning watching the Seine go by before arriving at the medieval city of Rouen. Join a guided walking tour through the Old Town to take in spectacular Gothic architecture and storybook buildings.

Day 5 – Normandy Beaches

Visit World War II landmarks, such as Omaha Beach, the American Military Cemetery and the Caen Memorial Museum, on your full-day tour of the historic beaches of Normandy.

Day 6 – Les Andelys

Take in the imposing castle, Château Gaillard, before a guided walking tour of the Middle Ages structure.

Day 7 – Le Pecq and Paris

Tour palaces when you visit Château de Malmaison and the luxurious Palace of Versailles.

Day 8 to 10 – Lyon

Enjoy a leisurely train ride from Paris to the countryside of east-central France to Lyon to board your second ship, where a Welcome Dinner is served.

Day 11 – Vienne

Explore the beautiful town of Vienne and its classic Roman architecture and Gothic cathedral.

Day 12 – Tournon

Take in the deep gorges of the Ardeche Plateaur by train before returning to your ship to watch the passing scenery go by as you move onto Vivers.

Day 13 – Arles

Experience the city’s vibrant colours, diverse architecture, and striking quality of light that have inspired artists for centuries.

Day 14 – Avignon

Troll through the historic centre, stop at the picturesque Pont d’Avignon, and walk to the Place de l’Horloge. Continue to the renowned Palace of the Popes for a guided tour through this rambling maze of Gothic architecture that served as papal residence, fortress, church and palace.

Getting To Your River Cruise

Take a look at our latest European airfare deals or speak to one of our travel specialists to find the perfect tour and Business Class flight option for you.

The Douro River Cruise: Portugal’s River of Gold

The Douro River in Portugal offers a captivating journey through the Iberian landscape, with its terraced vineyards and traditional wine farms known as ‘quintas.’ Explore the city of Porto, where the river meets the Atlantic, and sample some of the world’s best Port wine directly from its source. The region’s golden hues during sunset provide an unforgettable backdrop to every evening on the river.

Why We Love It

Sail up the Douro with Uniworld on their 11 day cruise, beginning at sea in Porto before ending in Vega De Terron in Spain. As your river cruise winds its way along the Douro River, head ashore to visit charming Quintas and enjoy private tastings of Port; explore Porto’s historic Ribeira district, home to iconic Rabelo boats, cutting-edge cuisine and a thriving art scene, before returning to unwind and relax on the luxurious one of a kind river ship.

The Finer Details

• Hotel stay in Lisbon
• Private Port tastings
• Visit UNESCO Sites
• One of a kind Boutique river ship
• Luxurious staterooms
• Unlimited beverages
• Guided “Do as the Locals Do” program
• Free Wi-Fi access
• Gratuities
• Cultural Enrichment
• Captivating onboard local entertainment

Who’s This River Cruise For?

This is the river cruise for history buffs and wine lovers alike! Visit charming quintas and meet the winemakers who operate them in Portugal with a visit to the fortified village of Castelo Rodrigo and historic Guimarães. Your journey ends in Lisbon, the city that launched some of the world’s most renowned explorers. There’s no better way to discover Europe’s best-kept secret than this scenic and all-inclusive river cruise!

Uniworld River Cruise Breakdown

Day 1 and 2 – Porto

Porto gave its name to the nation’s most famous export, Port wine, and to the nation itself. Today, choose to explore Portugal on foot or by panoramic drive.

Day 3 – Entre-Os-Rios

Today is all about wine, which has been cultivated in the Douro River Valley since ancient Roman times. Get a crash course on the history of Port during your visit to the Douro Museum.

Day 4 – Regua, Pochinho, Vega De Terron

Go medieval today at Castelo Rodrigo, both the name of a hilltop castle and the village surrounding it. The view from the top is incredible, and the village is a charming place to ramble, relax and replenish.

Day 5 – Vega De Terron (Salamanca), Barca D’Alva

Today, you can visit the historic university town of Salamanca—the “Golden City”—famous for its sand-coloured buildings and abundance of churches. Feel the centuries fall away as your ship winds through the pristine, dramatic UNESCO-protected landscapes of the Douro River Valley.

Day 6 – Barca D’Alva

Head ashore for excursions, including a tasting at a prestigious Port wine estate or a vineyard hike with a wine tasting at a local Quinta.

Day 7 – Regua (Guimaraes), Porto

Explore Guimarães, the town where Portugal was born. Its well-preserved architecture and stylish young residents make it a pleasure to visit.

Day 8 to 10 – Lisbon

Disembark the ship and board a motorcoach, heading south through Portugal’s picturesque countryside to Lisbon, where you will check in to your hotel.

Everything old is new again in the Portuguese capital. Get to know this hilly metropolis with a city tour that shows you all the top sights and treats you to an iconic, locally-made pastry.

Getting To Your River Cruise

Including Portugal in your travel plans allows for a balanced exploration between the old-world charm of Europe’s cities and the natural allure of its rivers. View our latest European flight deals here or talk to one of our travel specialists to find the best airfare and river cruise for you.

Integrating River Cruises with Your Business Class Journey

Planning a trip can seem daunting, but by working with our specialists, we can take the stress away. Not only do we have a dedicated team of Tour + Cruise experts to help you find the perfect river cruise, but we also have a dedicated team of airfare specialists, ready to help you book the perfect Business Class airfare.