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Rhine River Cruises

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250+ Rhine river cruises with 725 reviews

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Legendary Rhine Cruise (Amsterdam-Mainz) MS Crucevita

"Accommodations great, staff outstanding, captain great." CaterineFares, traveled in June 2019

Legendary Rhine Cruise (Mainz-Amsterdam) MS Crucevita

"The ship was very nice and the crew were all so friendly. The food was first class and the cocktails amazing." Jasmin, traveled in June 2023

Romantic Rhine (Southbound) 2024

"The ship, the staff, the food, the wines were excellent. Everything was beyond expectations." Gail, traveled in October 2019

River Cruise Historical

Captivating Rhine 2024 Start Amsterdam, End Basel

"We had the opportunity to see new places, learn about different cultures, taste delicious food." Douglas, traveled in September 2018

Classical Rhine Cruise (Amsterdam - Basel)

"A good balance of excursions and relaxation and good food and wine" Frances, traveled in September 2022

Rhine Experience Amsterdam & Rotterdam 2024

"Need more English speaking on tour excursions and meed more than 1 elevator on the cruise ship." Rungfa, traveled in March 2024

River Cruise Historical Christmas & New Year +1

Rhine Castles & Swiss Alps 2024 Start Amsterdam, End Basel

"Fantastic trip all staff amazing" Paul, traveled in August 2018

Romantic Rhine (Northbound) 2024

"It was simply amazing!" Jerry, traveled in October 2018

River Cruise Family Historical +1

Classical Rhine Cruise (Basel - Amsterdam)

"The food was delicious and presented elegantly. I would highly recommend and plan to book again." Diana, traveled in April 2024

From Amsterdam to Basel: The Treasures of the Celebrated Rhine River (port-to-port cruise)

"Good value with excellent service and food" Paul, traveled in October 2023

Reviews of Rhine Cruises

Well organised with plenty to see.

I went on this cruise with my 83 year old mum, and we had the best time. The ship was very nice and the crew were all so friendly, from the Captain, to the mangement and reception staff, to the bar and wait staff, kitchen staff and room attendants - they felt like family by the end of our cruise. They also made a big celebration for my mum’s birthday ? Also a big shout out to Jessica, our cruise guide, and Renata the on board entertainer - both beautiful and accommodating ladies ❤️ We saw amazing places and beautiful scenery. The food was first class and the cocktails amazing. I would recommend this cruise to anyone.

It was a great cruise. The food was amazing, the crew was really helpful, and the tours and tour guides were great. The only thing to imporve on if the WiFi which only worked half the time.

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"The crew and organisers on board were brilliant especially as they had to cope with changes due to Rhine flooding. They made sure we were informed and provided alternative visits to unscheduled sites - very enjoyable. They were warm and friendly at all times.

Crucemundo is an expert in:

"Great service, good guides, excellent food

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Overview Captivating Rhine

7- night cruise, 7- night cruise with 2-nights amsterdam pre-cruise and 2 nights lake lucerne, 2 nights zurich post-cruise, 7-night cruise add pre- or post-cruise land program 7-night cruise with 2-nights amsterdam pre-cruise and 2 nights lake lucerne, 2 nights zurich post-cruise 7-night cruise with 2-nights amsterdam pre-cruise and 2 nights lake lucerne, 2 nights zurich post-cruise add pre- or post-cruise land program 7-night cruise, cruise from : amsterdam to basel, cruise from :, countries: france, germany, netherlands, switzerland france, germany, netherlands, switzerland, rivers: rhine, captivating rhine at a glance.

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*Cruises departing in February will dock in Mainz in place of Rüdesheim on this day, and a selection of alternative excursions will be made available.

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Itinerary is subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please refer to the itinerary schedule provided with your final documents.

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7 Rhine River Cruises for Every Type of Traveler

Whether you love the idea of sailing past dozens of castles and forts or are eager to explore one of europe’s more underrated wine regions, there’s a rhine river cruise for you..

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A cruise down the Rhine River remains one of the most popular vacation options for travelers looking to get a taste of central Europe.

Courtesy of Avalon Waterways

One of the world’s great rivers, the Rhine, marks a storied stretch of winding waterway that spans 765 miles and six nations— Switzerland , Liechtenstein, Austria , Germany , France , and the Netherlands—from the Swiss Alps on to the North Sea. European river cruise itineraries here most commonly glide through four of these countries in one whirlwind week, on regular runs between Basel, Switzerland, and Amsterdam , with stops in France and Germany along the way.

It’s a romantic route marked by the region’s legendary castles and half-timbered houses, hillside vineyards, and fairy-tale Black Forest landscapes—along with a pass through the dramatic Rhine Gorge, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Apart from all that surface beauty, cruising the Rhine affords an immersive contextual understanding about how this ancient highway and trade route—pivotal since ancient Roman times through to today—has contributed to the history, culture, and economic development of greater Europe. The Rhine is one of the busiest and most economically important waterways in Europe , and your journey will also take you past hulking factories and stacks of shipping containers for a behind-the-scenes look at how essential goods are transported across the continent.

A Rhine River cruise provides seamless door-to-door delivery to the attractions of bigger cities like Basel, Strasbourg, Cologne, and Amsterdam, as well as access to less-visited but entirely worthy destinations such as Koblenz and Rüdesheim in Germany, where you’ll get your fill of castles, churches, museums, and wineries—all from the comfort of your floating hotel with accommodations, meals, and guided excursions included.

In 2022, the Rhine River experienced one of the worst droughts in recent history —some parts of the river in Germany dropped to below 16 inches of water in key navigational areas. The drought affected the flow of cargo and river cruise ships. While ships are still sailing , keep in mind that low water levels may affect river cruise itineraries by shortening the amount of time that passengers have in port when ships are forced to sail at a slower pace.

Nevertheless, river cruise companies have seen a major rebound in demand since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, and Rhine river cruises are still among the most popular sailing itineraries in Europe. Here, we present seven of the best Rhine River cruises (in no particular order) for every type of experience, whether it’s food, family adventure, wine—or something else—that floats your (river)boat.

AmaWaterway’s “Captivating Rhine” itinerary runs from Amsterdam to Basel, while its “Enchanting Rhine” cruise runs in the opposite direction.

Photo by Bjoern Wylezich/Shutterstock

AmaWaterways: Captivating Rhine

Cost: From $3,000 per person Days: 8 days Departure Port: Amsterdam, the Netherlands Final Port: Basel, Switzerland (AmaWaterways’ Enchanting Rhine Cruise runs from Basel to Amsterdam and is the same itinerary, just in the opposite direction)

The seven-night “ Captivating Rhine Cruise ” sails between Amsterdam and Basel, with stops in Germany (Cologne, Rüdesheim, Ludwigshafen, and Breisach) and France (Strasbourg)—it’s a paradise for wine lovers. Itineraries include wineries, vineyards, and cellars: Hike through the vineyards of the winemaking town of Rüdesheim; visit the “Great Vat,” an 18th-century, 49,000-gallon wine barrel in Heidelberg; or taste the famous white wines of Alsace in Riquewihr. Some notable varieties to sample include riesling, which is known as the “queen of the grapes” along the Middle Rhine, while red wine drinkers will enjoy Germany’s full-bodied and velvety spätburgunder (known as pinot noir in France and made using the same grapes).

However, there are plenty of other things to do on this cruise for those who want to experience the culture of the towns along the route or hope to stay active on vacation. AmaWaterways has several cruise excursions available for each port on its itinerary, including gentle walking tours with local guides and bike tours through the gorgeous central European countryside. (Tip: Don’t miss the bike tour of Strasbourg, which explores the charming city’s modern role as one of the de facto capitals of the European Union, as well as its historic Alsatian identity with a well-informed local guide and leisurely 10-mile ride.)

Viking regularly travels up and down the Rhine with its line of over 40, nearly identical sister ships.

Photo by Shutterstock

Viking: Paris to the Swiss Alps

Cost: From $3,299 per person Days: 12 days Departure Port: Paris, France Final Port: Zürich, Switzerland

Viking, which bills itself as “the thinking person’s cruise,” is a major player on the Rhine, where it operates more than 40 riverboats—nearly identical sister ships with a capacity for 190 guests. Of particular interest to history buffs is its “ Paris to the Swiss Alps ” cruise tour, a four-nation trip that bookends a seven-night sailing on the Moselle (a Rhine tributary) and Rhine with a two-night, hotel-based stay in both Paris and Zurich . After taking a coach from Paris, guests visit Luxembourg en route to Trier, Germany, the embarkation point for a voyage that stops in Bernkastel, Cochem, Koblenz, Mainz, and Speyer in Germany, as well as Strasbourg, France. The cruise ends in Basel before continuing on by ground transfer to Zurich.

The itinerary is loaded with history-rich excursions. Among the highlights is the American Cemetery where more than 5,000 World War II soldiers repose in Luxembourg; a tour of relics of Roman baths, an amphitheater, and city gates at Trier; a visit to the Gutenberg Museum in Mainz to explore the history of the printing press; a stroll through the palace and gardens of Versailles in France; and Germany’s historic university city, Heidelberg.

Frankfurt, Germany, was the birthplace of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, who penned the play Faust .

Avalon Waterways: Active & Discovery on the Rhine

Cost: From $2,849 per person Days: 8 days Departure Port: Amsterdam, the Netherlands Final Port: Frankfurt, Germany

The Avalon Waterways “ Active & Discovery on the Rhine ” itinerary incorporates an array of customizable excursion options that emphasize physical activity. Choose from guided tours like kayaking the canals of Amsterdam, hiking through the Netherland’s De Hoge Veluwe National Park (140,000 acres and home to red deer, wild boars, and pine martens), jogging while sightseeing in Cologne, or biking through Düsseldorf. Or set out on your own in ports with loaner bikes and Nordic walking sticks on hand. The river cruise operator also offers a series of “discovery” excursions, hands-on, interactive experiences that often focus on culture and cuisine.

Adventures by Disney

Cost: From $5,399 per adult; from $4,899 per child Days: 8 days Departure Port: Amsterdam, the Netherlands Final Port: Basel, Switzerland

River cruise lines have long catered to the over-50 crowd, but the industry has been shaking things up in recent years with the emergence of several family-friendly river itineraries . Leading the charge is the six-year-old partnership between Disney (via its Adventures by Disney tour operating arm) and AmaWaterways; their seven-night Rhine River itineraries unfold aboard two ships, the 156-guest AmaLucia and the AmaSiena. Both riverboats include rare connecting staterooms and suites, designed with families in mind, and fun onboard activities like cooking classes, karaoke nights, and swimming in the heated pool.

Sailing between Amsterdam and Basel, the ship stops in France (at Strasbourg) and Germany (at Mannheim, Rüdesheim, and Cologne) en route. Excursion highlights—all led by up to eight Disney-trained “Adventure Guides”—include a “Black Forest adventure” outing, where you can choose between an alpine toboggan run or a zipline ride and hike to Germany’s highest waterfalls at Triberg Waterfalls; a visit to a chocolate museum in Cologne; horseback riding in Riquewihr (the French village that inspired Beauty and the Beast ); an indoor winter park in Neuss, Germany (for a sledding or tubing adventure, no matter the season); and the Rhine requisite and fun-for-all-ages Heidelberg Castle tour and Amsterdam canal cruise. Note that itineraries are suggested for kids ages eight and up, and a minimum age of four years old applies.

European river cruises are especially popular around the holiday season when Christmas markets are in business.

Photo by ecstk22/Shutterstock

Scenic: Christmas on the Rhine

Cost: $4,195 Days: 8 days Departure Port: Amsterdam, the Netherlands Final Port: Nuremberg, Germany

Scenic Cruise’s “ Christmas on the Rhine ” takes the best parts of a typical Rhine river cruise and sprinkles in a little holiday magic. Taking place just once a year from December 21 to 28, this cruise sails during Christmas—a memorable way to observe the holiday. The journey begins in Amsterdam, where guests are invited to take a river canal tour or visit the nearby towns of Alkmaar and Schermerhorn, home to windmills that date back to the 16th century. Then the ship will wind its way through Cologne, Rüdesheim, Würzburg, and Bamberg before finally ending in Nuremberg. There are plenty of places in each port to soak up the festive European atmosphere, while making time to pick up a Christmas-themed trinket or two in either Amsterdam or Cologne, Germany.

The moist, but well-drained soil of the Netherlands provides the perfect growing conditions for tulips.

Photo by Travelpixs/Shutterstock

Uniworld: Tulips and Windmills

Cost: $4,699 Days: 10 days Departure Port: Amsterdam, the Netherlands Final Port: Antwerp, Belgium

Uniworld’s “ Tulip and Windmills ” cruise begins on the Rhine, but then veers to the west toward Belgium. While in the Netherlands, travelers can look forward to skipping through acres of tulips at Keukenhof Gardens and getting up close and personal with Kinderdijk’s 19 UNESCO-protected windmills that have guarded the low country from rising sea levels for centuries. Guests will also get to visit small, charming Dutch towns, such as Enkhuizen, Hoorn, and Veere, and take in the dazzling skyline of Rotterdam. Art fans will be sure to especially enjoy this itinerary, which features stops at the Kröller-Müller Museum in Otterlo (which houses nearly 100 works by Van Gogh) plus a tour through the world-renowned Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, which has been nicknamed the “home of the Dutch masters.” Once in Belgium, visitors can take in Ghent’s world-renowned architecture on a walking tour and learn about the UNESCO World Heritage site Cathedral of Our Lady in Antwerp. Be sure to munch on those Dutch and Belgian pastries when you can.

Tauck’s Rhine Enchantment intinerary combines two appealing modes of transportation: cruising and trains.

Photo by Gaspar Janos/Shutterstock

Tauck: Rhine Enchantment, Amsterdam to Milan

Cost: $6,400 Days: 11 days Departure Port: Amsterdam, the Netherlands Final Port: Milan, Italy

OK, I know what you’re thinking: There are no waterways that directly connect Amsterdam with Milan. Tauck’s “ Rhine Enchantment ” itinerary combines arguably two of the most popular modes of leisure transportation in Europe: cruise ships and rail. After sailing from Amsterdam to Basel (with stops in places like Düsseldorf and Heidelberg), guests will take a train along a stunning route through the Alps to Milan. The cost of the trip includes three nights at the Hotel Principe di Savoia in Milan during the Italian leg of the journey, a private boat ride on Lake Como, and a gala evening at a baroque palace situated along the Rhine near Wiesbaden, Germany.

This article was first published on June 10, 2019. It was updated on August 19, 2022.

Rhine river cruises

Discover a world of fairy tale landscapes and historical backdrops along the Rhine River.

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Explore the delights of the Rhine River

Sail on a voyage of discovery on board a Rhine river cruise and unveil gems such as the Black Forest and the cultural mecca of Amsterdam. A mesmerizing route through mainland Europe, the Rhine offers an abundance of unique charm to lose yourself in.

Uncover the jewels of the Rhine

A world of experiences

Enlightening experiences await on your Rhine river cruise. Journey from the Netherlands and through the heart of Germany, along the eastern border of France into the north of Switzerland, enjoying all the sights on the way.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Marksburg Castle, Germany

Discover the Rhine River

Embrace and celebrate european flair.

Tasty sweets and hearty meats

Fairy tale landscapes

The beauty of nature

Featured  Itineraries

Jewels of the Rhine

Discover Europe’s most popular river cruises

The Majestic Rhine

Rhine Castles & Moselle Vineyards

Splendours of Europe

Jewels of the Rhine & Lucerne - Zurich

The Majestic Rhine & Berlin

Amsterdam & Jewels of the Rhine

Berlin to Zurich & The Majestic Rhine

Your guide to Europe river cruising

Our featured blogs.

The top 6 cities on the Rhine River

There are many beautiful cities, towns, and villages along the banks of Rhine. Discover the top six cities to visit on your luxury river cruise.

The history of Riesling wine

Discover the history and origins of Germany’s favorite grape variety and uncover the Riesling wine-producing regions of Europe.

How the Rhine Gorge became one of the most romantic places in the world

The Rhine Gorge is synonymous with romance. Find out how it gained this famed reputation.

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• Jul 26, 2023

Top 7 Family-friendly Activities on a Rhine River Cruise

Updated: May 8

Embark on an unforgettable journey along the Rhine River where you can explore six captivating destinations across four countries! And all your family has to do is unpack one time!

A family-friendly river cruise hosts exciting activities designed to delight every member of your family. This exclusive and enchanting experience combines the best of travel, luxury and family fun along the majestic Rhine River .

Here is our list of the Top 7 family-friendly activities included on a Rhine River cruise:

1. Rhine Gorge Castle Cruise

Embark on a captivating Castle Cruise through the stunning Rhine Gorge and witness the grandeur of 30 iconic castles in all their splendor.

As you sail along, a Cruise Manager will share fascinating historical anecdotes and insightful commentary about the castles and the surrounding area.

2. Rüdesheim Gondola Ride

Experience the exhilaration of soaring through the skies on the Rüdesheim Gondola Ride, bound for the iconic Niederwald Monument.

As you ascend, prepare to be amazed by the breathtaking panoramic vistas of the old town, the picturesque wine country, and the majestic Rhine River.

The Niederwald Monument, a renowned Germania symbol, awaits atop the hill with awe-inspiring views and a glimpse into Germany's historical and cultural heritage.

3. Heidelberg Castle Tour

Step into the pages of history as you explore the majestic Heidelberg Castle. Guided by a charismatic costumed expert, this tour includes captivating tales of this fortress turned royal residence.

Then, wander through the charming streets of Heidelberg on a delightful walking tour, discovering the charms of Germany's oldest and most prestigious university town.

4. Black Forest Adventure

Just outside of Strasbourg, France you can embark on an enchanting journey through the mesmerizing Black Forest, where you'll be captivated by the breathtaking highlands, serene pastoral farms, lush grassy fields, and enchanting woods.

Feel your heart race with excitement as you experience the thrill of an alpine toboggan run, an adventure that promises unforgettable memories.

Delve into the region's rich cultural heritage by attending a fascinating museum workshop, where an expert will guide you in crafting the iconic cuckoo pipe, a cherished symbol of the Black Forest's artistic prowess

5. Cologne Walking Tour and Chocolate Museum

Discover the captivating city of Cologne, Germany through a fascinating walking tour showcasing a mesmerizing blend of Gothic architecture, magnificent churches such as the Cologne Cathedral, and inspiring museums and galleries.

Then, immerse yourself in the delectable world of chocolate at the Chocolate Museum, where a self-guided tour awaits to immerse you in the history and culture of this delightful treat.

Indulge in tasting some incredible chocolates and even craft your very own chocolate bar, adding a touch of sweetness to your unforgettable Cologne experience.

6. Amsterdam Canal Cruise

In The Netherlands, set sail on a magical boat journey along Amsterdam's lifelines—the 165 enchanting canals that have shaped the city's rich history for 800 years.

As you sail along, be captivated by the timeless allure of the famous historical center, adorned with ancient churches, charming canal houses, picturesque bridges, and cobblestone streets.

7. Swiss Cheese Tasting

In Basel, Switzerland you can savor the richness of Swiss cheese and complement it with exquisite wines (adults only, of course), creating a perfect fusion of taste and luxury.

Let your taste buds embark on a culinary journey as you enjoy this special treat while surrounded by the beauty of the river cruise.

A Rhine River cruise offers an exceptional and alluring opportunity for families to embark on a remarkable adventure spanning four countries. With the convenience of unpacking just once, families can fully immerse themselves in unforgettable family moments.

So, set sail on this extraordinary expedition and create timeless bonds with your loved ones amid the majestic beauty of the Rhine River .

For more information or to schedule a consultation to discuss a Rhine River Cruise or any other luxury family vacation, please contact [email protected] .

If you want to learn more about family-friendly tours across the globe with Adventures by Disney or river cruising along the Danube River , feel free to reach out for more details.

Lissa Ryan is a Senior Travel Advisor with Kingdom Destinations specializing in luxurious family vacations. Lissa helps busy parents who want to create travel memories with their families through luxury travel experiences, but are too busy or overwhelmed with all the effort and research that is required to plan that perfect vacation.

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12 Reasons We Loved the Viking Rhine River Cruise

If you’ve been thinking of booking a Viking Rhine River Cruise for your family, I can tell you from experience that you will make memories to last a lifetime.

About eight years ago my husband and I took our daughters on a Rhine River Cruise with Viking.

My husband and I went on our first of three Viking River Cruises almost ten years ago, beginning in Lyon and ending in Provence. It was after we had actually been on one of the Viking River Cruises that the wheels started turning about taking our girls.

Most people think of river cruises exclusively as a vacation for couples, but if you have older kids, it’s a wonderful way to show them another part of the world along with a history lesson they will never forget.

We realized a few years ago that the same year my husband and I would be married 25 years, our daughters would also turn 18 and 21. Those are three pretty big milestones, and we wanted to celebrate in a big way.

What would we do? We thought about Hawaii as we’ve always wanted to go. We talked about Europe as our oldest had never been.

And then it dawned on us. Why not take our daughters on a river cruise in Europe to celebrate all three big occasions together? It was the best idea we’ve ever had.

By the way, I finally sailed with Viking on an ocean cruise last year, from Venice to Athens. Save this list of things to do in Venice for when you go.

Why We Loved the Viking Rhine River Cruise

Big milestones deserve big celebrations.

25 years of marriage is a pretty big milestone. Let’s be real; it’s not easy, but it is worth it. It deserves a celebration that will be remembered forever.

Our girls are now both busy adults. We knew if we didn’t make this celebration happen now, it may never happen. I guess the key is to not let that time pass when you are all able to take a trip like this together.

Making memories

The memories we made are truly priceless. Sipping a cappuccino in Cologne, Germany, seeing the castles along the Rhine, exploring the Marksburg Castle together, these are just a few of the things we will never forget that we experienced as a family on the Viking Rhine River Cruise.

They grow up too fast 

I can’t believe I’ll be an empty nester in the next couple of years. Our oldest (above) is in college in Canada, and our younger daughter leaves for the same college in the fall.

They will be both be home during the summer for the next couple of years, but then they will be off – building their own futures.

I want to squeeze in all the time together with them I can! We really had a lot of special moments on this Viking Rhine River Cruise.

If you’ve been thinking about doing something like this, another fabulous trip would the Christmas markets. Do a little research to see which would be the best European Christmas markets for teens before you start planning.

Exploring History

  The Viking Trademark is The Thinking Person’s Cruise. This is why they offer the Culture Curriculum while onboard, bringing local history to life. You’ll also find a plethora of information on their site to prep you for the journey, including a book list.

There is so much to explore, and most of the time, you can walk right into town. Other times, Viking Cruises has their own lovely coach buses to get you to different excursions.

The below photo has a story we will never forget. We had just been to the Van Gogh Museum. My oldest daughter had just shown me the Dr. Who episode where Van Gogh (one of the most famous painters ) is brought to the future to see how people would react to his art. I could not stop crying. My daughter clearly got a kick out of it!

If you haven’t seen it, take a moment and watch.

Fabulous Food

If you’ve been a reader of this site for any length of time, you probably know I’m a foodie. One of my favorite things about a Viking River Cruise is that they serve food based on each region you will visit. On this particular day, we were in Strasbourg for a culinary tour.

A Viking Cruise will also offer cooking classes when available. Two years ago I learned to make choux pastry on a Viking River Cruise in France. We had so much fun!

This year we watched a live demo of making a Black Forest Cake while in the Black Forest! You can’t get any more authentic than that! Bookmark my post about things to do in the Black Forest Germany if you go.

We had three waiters at our beck and call every night we ate on the ship. They were wonderful! I know our girls felt very blessed to be so spoiled by the Viking team.

It almost makes me want to do the Viking Rhine River Cruise again, but there are so many fantastic Viking River Cruises to different countries. We have a couple on our bucket list we would love to do over the next few years.

The toughest thing about a Viking Cruise is getting home and not having the staff with you!

The rooms on a Viking River Cruise are not huge as there is only so much room on a small ship, but they are luxurious. The bed is so comfortable, and the shower is large enough that my husband who is 6’1″ doesn’t feel cramped. The heated floors of the shower are wonderful, too!

You’ll find plenty of room to put away your clothes and not think about packing again until you have to pull your suitcases out and say goodbye. There is also ample storage in the closets.

On our first Viking River Cruise, we didn’t have a veranda, and I do have to say I loved it on this last cruise. 

However, Viking River Cruises do sell out fast, so if you can’t get a veranda, it’s not the end of the world. You don’t spend that much time in your room, anyway.

Smaller number of passengers

The Viking River Cruise typically has about 190 passengers. This makes for an intimate group. You see the same people throughout the cruise, whether at dinner, on an excursion, or on the deck watching the scenery. After the first day, you’re waving at people from across the room.

Viking does an incredible job of designing experiences everyone will enjoy. For those who want to go on an excursion every day, there is so much to choose from.

Experience cooking classes, see UNESCO Heritage sites or take a walking tour of the city. We chose an excursion in Rudesheim, Germany that featured a traditional German meal and entertainment. The below photo says it all. We had so much fun!

If you prefer to spend more time on the ship, you’ll enjoy experiences like History lectures to onboard concerts to wine and cheese tastings. On this particular evening, we were treated to an concert from members of the Cologne Academy of Music.

Discounts 

When Viking River has their 2 for 1 special, you can’t beat the price. Check the website when you’re ready to start planning.

My Viking Journey

This is one of my favorite things about a Viking River Cruises. All the information about your trip will be on your My Viking Journey page. Once your flights are booked, they show up on your page, as well as excursions you’ve booked, whether they are the included excursions or optional. This is how you plan your days. 

You’ll have links to research where you’re going, tutorials on the language, and even a recommended book list and a map so you can see the route of your cruise. Once on the ship, you will receive a Viking Daily in your stateroom each day when your room is tidied.

Life is Too Short 

Finally, we never know what life is going to give us.   One of my favorite things about travel is the people I meet. On this last cruise, I met Anita who shared with me that she has been told she has cancer and three to four months to live.

She told me, “This is my swan song.” She brought her closest friend, her daughter, and a friend of the family who has been a blessing to her by helping her get around and taking care of things she can no longer do around her house.

Anita and her friend Jacqui, a lifelong friend who has moved in with her to help with anything she needs, had a suite and loved every minute of the cruise. Though she is in a wheelchair (from a hip replacement issue- not the cancer) she was able to do several of the excursions. Viking did a great job accommodating the wheelchair.

Anita said she received brochures from Viking, so she did some research. She liked the small size and smaller number of passengers. She chose this particular route because she had done a day trip on the Rhine when she was a child.

Anita said, “You need to step outside of your life. Experience other cultures. You have to see it to believe it. Pictures don’t do it.” Her favorite part of the trip was the Black Forest. We loved that, too.

Anita is 64. Life is too short friends. She is making the most of the time she has by seeing the world (she loves to travel) and sharing it with those she loves. I hope she is with us longer than she said and I run into her again one day soon.

When I say I think Viking is the best way to see the world, I mean it. Viking River Cruises are available throughout Europe, Asia, and Egypt. The Ocean Cruises are too many to list here. I haven’t been on an Ocean Cruise with Viking yet, but my friend Charles McCool from McCool Travel has, and shared a post about Secret Things to Do on a Viking Ocean Cruise .

And now, you can enjoy both the River and Ocean Cruise in the same trip. Did I mention this is a bucket list item?

I hope I’ve answered some questions for you about why you should consider one of the Viking River Cruises with your family.

What do you have planned for your next celebration? Share in the comments. I’d love to read about your adventures.

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20 Comments

I just wanted to say that my mom and I did this cruise last year in October. What caught my eye was your selfie with the staff. Alan! He was my favourite that whole trip 🙂 Can’t wait until November when my mom and I go again. Glad you had a fun time.

Kids grow really fast. Best way to gather memories with them.

Exactly, Asmi. It was an incredible trip!

To take a Viking Cruise is definitely on our bucket list. Seems they are very friendly. I love your picture laughing and sipping coffee in the balcony!!

I have been on cruises before but I have not been on a Viking River Cruise. It looks really fun. I love that you were able to meet an amazing person, Anita, on the cruise.

I have always wanted to take Viking cruise. I cannot get over how much you get for your money. And this is my favorite Doctor Who episode!

History lectures??? It sounds like they have a bit of everything. Everything I LOVE at that!

Wow, it looks like you get pampered on this cruise. I wouldn’t mind that at all! ha!

I definitely don’t need an excuse. These cruises look awesome!

i am not much of a fan of travelling with my kids while young. Probably because I have 7 of them and it can be a handful at times, but we love making memories. This looks like a lot of fun!

I hear you, Jeanine, and this would definitely not be for you at this stage. Maybe just you and your husband. If you want to cruise now, go with one that specializes in family cruises for young kids- with a kids club!

These are all so true! I love traveling with my kids while they are young. They grow up too fast and this is the only time we can make memories with them. 🙂

I don’t have kids but it would be nice to go on a cruise with the family! I think it’s an amazing experience and it’s a great way to get to know each other better while also making memories. I’m sure it’s worth it.

The “river” cruise has always thrown me off, but seeing your photos and reading your posts, it makes more sense now! Our next adventure is flying to Rhode Island to pick up our Sprinter Van. Hoping to experience the #vanlife, even if it is only on the weekends!

I think a Viking cruise would be such an incredible way to see new countries. I like the special touches they give their guests, like the black forest cake while you were in the Black Forest. It’s the little things like that that make a trip memorable.

Those are good reasons! I have always wanted to go on a Viking River Cruise. I have heard so much about them and how nice they are. Gotta look into one of these for my anniversary.

Thank you so much for sharing this! I’ve heard of these river cruises before, but honestly, I thought they wouldn’t be this nice. I’m so glad you brought this to us!

That is so amazing! We’ve been tossing around the idea of doing one of these, and you just sold me on it!

These are such good reasons! I’d totally love to go on one of these river cruises. It would be so nice to go on all of the excursions!

That was a great roundup of an amazing trip and it seems like you spent so much time in so many different places. I have always wanted to go on a cruise but this one seems like the perfect way to go.

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• Cruises for Families

4 Best River Cruises for Families

Aug 8, 2016

See recent posts by Stacey Zable

More and more families are heading to Europe for river cruises and features that include dedicated tours and programming to attract parents, and often the extended family.

Inclusive excursions can feature Venetian mask making in Italy , private dinners in a centuries-old castle along the Rhine River, and hot air balloon rides over Paris . Families can even take off to explore destinations on their own using the ships’ complimentary bicycles. The immersive experience while onboard these intimate ships can get families cooking regional cuisine, taking language classes, and listening to local entertainment. Most of the departures take place during the summer and winter school holidays and are usually seven-night cruises, with some offering land-based add-ons.

Family River Cruises vs. Ocean Cruises

Unlike traditional ocean cruise ships that can hold thousands of passengers, river cruise ships hold a maximum of approximately 200 guests. With that small size comes much less onboard amenities. You won’t find water parks or climbing walls, and there will be one, maybe two restaurants. There may be a small fitness center and spa for adults, and some ships may have a small pool.

The intimate river cruises, however, also lack long lines to get on and off the ship and crowds. More of a tour where the mode of transportation is a ship, river cruise itineraries also provide a more personal and immersive experience with the ships’ ability to visit small cities and towns. Local experts and guides lead shore excursions that provide an authentic feel. Rates on river cruises are generally all-inclusive, with dining, drinks, gratuities, and even shore excursions included. Airfare is additional.

Here’s a look at some of the best European river cruises for families:

1. Adventures by Disney/AmaWaterways

Adventures by Disney partners with AmaWaterways river cruise line for cruises on the Danube River and Rhine River. Countries visited include Austria, Germany, France, Hungary, the Netherlands, Slovakia, and Switzerland.

Adventures by Disney excursion highlights include an Oktoberfest celebration with costumed local entertainers, bike ride through Austria’s Wachau Valley vineyards, marionette performance and strudel making demonstration in Vienna , clog painting and a cheese making demonstration in Holland, and ziplining through the Black Forest in Strasbourg, France. The holiday sailing features visits to Christmas markets and a Vienna Boys Choir performance.

Disney Adventure Guides are on each sailing, serving as hosts in each destination and onboard the ship. The guides are in addition to AmaWaterways’ crew and Cruise Manager. Onboard the ship, guest spaces are repurposed during the family sailings to provide for specially designed activities geared towards children, teens, and adults. Adjoining staterooms and suites are available and can sleep three to four guests. The ships also have swimming pools.

Recommended Age: Children ages 8 and up are welcome to cruise on AmaWaterways.

A-ROSA offers sailings just for families, cruising along the Rhine, Maine, Moselle, Danube, Rhine and Saine Rivers and visiting Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Germany, France, Hungary, the Netherlands, Romania, Slovakia, Serbia and Switzerland. Especially appealing is that each child ages 2 to 15 sails free with an adult! A-ROSA’s ships have triples, family suites, and adjoining staterooms to cater to the family market. Almost all of A-ROSA’s ships also have swimming pools, and during holiday periods, the A-ROSA kids’ club is available for ages 4 to 15.

Recommended Age: Age 2 is the minimum age on A-ROSA, but children age 6 and older will most enjoy the experience.

3. Tauck Bridges/Tauck River Cruising

Tauck offers four family-specific cruises: Fun Along the Seine: Paris to Normandy; France Family River Cruise (on the Rhone River); Blue Danube (Hungary to Germany and through Slovakia and Austria); and a Castles on the Rhine cruise, which sails through Switzerland, France, Germany and the Netherlands. Kid-friendly fun includes a scavenger hunt in the Louvre, Bratislava Devin Castle Jousting in Slovakia, French cooking class in Valence, and a private dinner and tour of Reichenstein Castle on the Rhine.

Tauck has several director-level staff members on each departure, in addition to the local guides. Though there are no connecting rooms onboard, Tauck does offer family-friendly configurations with some suites that can accommodate three or four with a pullout couch. It also waives its single supplement, ideal for single parents or a single grandparent traveling with the family.

Recommended Age: The recommended age is 8 and up for enjoyment, but the minimum age is 4 on the Tauck Bridges river cruise departures.

4. Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection

Rivers include the Rhine, Danube, Main, Seine, Po and Venice Lagoon. Countries that are visited are Austria, Czech Republic, France, Germany, Hungary, Italy, the Netherlands, and Switzerland. A December Christmas markets cruise in Germany is also available. Family shore excursion highlights include Frankfurt’s paleontological museum, a tour of Vienna’s Spanish Riding School, glass-blowing and mask-making workshop in Italy, hot air balloon rides over Paris, and visiting Marksburg Castle and its armor collection in Braubach, Germany.

The Generations departures also include kid-friendly menus and nightly Young Travelers Table (though kids can also eat with their parents if they chose), onboard Family Hosts, special ship tours with the Captain or hotel manager, use of bicycles, onboard language and dessert making lessons, and a Young Travelers’ Lounge & Game Room. Each night with turndown, children receive a special gift reflective of the destination.

Recommended Age: Kids should be at least 4 years old to get the full multigenerational experience that Uniworld offers.

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The 10 best places to go on a river cruise in Europe 

Jun 7, 2024 • 8 min read

Appreciate the beautiful architecture of Budapest from the Danube © Sanga Park / Shutterstock

Cruising down a quiet, traffic-free river, surrounded by scenic riverfront views is an ideal way to see Europe . You can sip your wine while watching picture-perfect scenery breeze past – taking in castles, medieval villages and fields of flowers. 

By necessity, European riverboats are small and passenger numbers are often fewer than 200, making these cruises a far more social and intimate experience. There’s also plenty to do and see onshore, and with more frequent stops you can enjoy more onshore activities. Cruise lines are now also offering more immersive learning experiences such as cooking classes and home visits, or activities like bicycle trips and long hikes.

The hardest part is choosing where to go — which is why we've rounded up the 10 best places to go on a European river cruise. 

1. Northern Rhine (Germany)

From gorgeous river meanders and noble German cities

The northern section of the Rhine features dramatic landscapes and a host of interesting towns. Cologne (Köln), Germany ’s fourth-largest city, offers numerous attractions starting with its famous cathedral, while Koblenz, at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers, is a park- and flower-filled delight. Heading south, the Rhine meanders between hillside castles and steep fields of wine-producing grapes. Idyllic villages appear around each bend, their half-timbered houses and Gothic steeples seemingly plucked from a fairy tale. Scarcely damaged during WWII, handsome Speyer is crowned by a magnificent Romanesque cathedral. 

2. Southern Rhine (France, Germany & Switzerland)

Explore intriguing towns in this border land

The Southern Rhine forms the border between Germany and France before becoming Switzerland ’s northern frontier. Strasbourg is the perfect overture to all that is idiosyncratic about Alsace – walking a fine tightrope between France and Germany, between a medieval past and a progressive future. Further south, the Black Forest spills into Alsace in the German town of Breisach. Unsurprisingly, given its geographical and cultural proximity to France, the locals here have a passion for a good bottle of wine. Basel, at the juncture of the French, German and Swiss borders, is perhaps where Switzerland’s Franco-Germanic roots are most evident.

3. Rhône (France)

Indulge in gourmet experiences cruising the south of France

Commanding a strategic spot at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône Rivers, grand old Lyon is France’s gastronomic capital. Downstream, the Rhône forges past Vienne’s Roman ruins and the centuries-old Côtes du Rhône vineyards, opening to sunny vistas of fruit orchards, lavender fields and the distant Alps as it continues south. During the 14th century, the Provençal town of Avignon was the center of the Roman Catholic world. Its impressive legacy of ecclesiastical architecture most notably includes the soaring, World Heritage-listed Palais des Papes .

4. Western Danube (Austria & Germany)

Romantic landscapes in the heart of Europe

The baroque streetscapes and imperial palaces set the stage for Vienna ’s artistic and musical masterpieces alongside its coffee-house culture and vibrant epicurean and design scenes. Moving into Germany, the Danube gently winds its way to the Italianate city of Passau . Top billing in eastern Bavaria goes to Regensburg, a former capital and one of Germany’s prettiest and liveliest cities. Nuremberg (Nürnberg), Bavaria’s second-largest city and the unofficial capital of Franconia, is an energetic place with a history that ranges from undeclared capital of the Holy Roman Empire to the trials that judged Nazi war crimes.

5. Eastern Danube (Hungary & Serbia)

Travel a cross-section of Europe’s less-touristed east

The two great cities of this stretch of the Danube are the capitals of Hungary and Serbia respectively. Budapest has something for everyone – from dramatic history and flamboyant architecture to healing thermal waters. Outspoken, adventurous, proud and audacious: Belgrade ("White City") has a gritty exuberance and eclectic architecture making it one of Europe’s most happening cities today. While it hurtles towards a brighter future, its past unfolds before your eyes: socialist blocks are squeezed between art nouveau masterpieces and remnants of the Habsburg legacy contrast with Ottoman relics.

6. Douro (Portugal)

See spectacular terraced vineyards, the home of port wine

The Douro region, home to port wine, is simply one of the most glorious spots on earth. The Douro Valley showcases steep terraced vineyards carved into mountains, granite bluffs, whitewashed quintas (estates) and 18th-century wine cellars that draw visitors from around the world. Humble-yet-opulent Porto entices with its higgledy-piggledy medieval center, divine food and wine, and charismatic locals. Its charms are as subtle as the nuances of an aged tawny port, best savored slowly.

7. Elbe (Czech Republic & Germany)

A little-cruised but picturesque stretch of Central Europe

Covering the Czech Republic and a thick slice of eastern Germany, Elbe cruises are under-the-radar options. Prague , not on the Elbe but usually included on river cruises, contends with cities like Budapest and Paris in terms of beauty. Its maze of cobbled lanes and hidden courtyards is perfect for the aimless wanderer. The classic view of Dresden from the Elbe’s northern bank takes in spires, towers and domes belonging to palaces, churches and stately buildings: hard to believe that the city was all but wiped off the map by Allied bombings in 1945. While the city of Wittenberg is first and foremost about Martin Luther, the monk who triggered the German Reformation in 1517.

8. Seine (France)

Cruise out of Paris through northern France

Paris has a timeless familiarity, with instantly recognizable architectural icons, memorable cuisine and chic boutiques. Dining is a quintessential part of the Parisian experience, and its art repository is one of the best, showcasing priceless treasures in palatial museums. Don't miss Rouen is one of Normandy’s most engaging and historically rich destinations, with its soaring Gothic cathedral, beautifully restored medieval quarter, excellent museums and vibrant cultural life. At the mouth of the Seine, Le Havre is a love letter to modernism, evoking France’s postwar energy and optimism.

9. Main (Germany)

A seductive German river connecting to the Rhine and Danube

Rising in Franconia and joining the Rhine near Mainz, the Main (pronounced "mine") is the longest German-only river. From Bamberg to its confluence, it travels some 400km through locks and picturesque scenery, dotted with historic towns. Frankfurt ’s skyscrapers are quite a contrast to the picturesque towns that follow, though it too has a rather traditional and charming old town. Scenic Würzburg is renowned for its art, architecture and delicate wines. A disarmingly beautiful architectural masterpiece, Bamberg’s entire Altstadt is a UNESCO World Heritage site. 

10. Moselle (Germany)

An intimate stretch of the wine-producing German region

Having traversed France and Luxembourg , the Moselle heads through Germany to meet its destiny with the Rhine at Koblenz. It’s a very pretty stretch of river flanked by vineyards, and makes for great leisurely cruising and exploration. With an astounding nine UNESCO World Heritage sites, gorgeous Trier shelters Germany’s finest ensemble of Roman monuments, and is enlivened by a characterful medieval center and large student population. Bernkastel-Kues are lovely twin settlements in the heart of wine country, while Cochem’s castle and pretty buildings make it a visual highlight of the Moselle .

How do I choose a route for a European river cruise?

The two major rivers for European cruises are the Rhine and the Danube. Together, they were once the northern boundary of the Roman Empire. Rhine cruises often run from Amsterdam to Basel, following the course of the river through Germany. Danube cruises start in southern Germany, wend their way through Bratislava, Slovakia; Linz and Vienna, Austria; and Belgrade, Serbia; then skirt the Bulgarian and Romanian border to reach the Black Sea.

While many first-time European river cruisers stick to these two rivers, there are many other options available. In Western Europe, you can cruise through the French countryside on the Rhône and Seine, or check out the vineyards of Portugal on the Douro. 

Even on the same river, distinct routes can be offered. One company might zip up the Rhine, allowing you to see the highlights in a few days; another might take longer, exploring smaller places along the way and offering more time for onshore experiences. You'll need to decide whether you’d like to get a look at more destinations, or more of a feel for fewer places.

When is the best time to go on a European river cruise?

Cruises on European rivers tend to begin in the spring, around March, and go through to October. Some cruises, operating in areas where Christmas markets are a feature, run right through December but inclement weather or river flooding could put a dampener on plans. Winter cruises tend to focus on places where Christmas experiences are on offer. Shorter daylight hours mean you’ll see less scenery, but the charm of the festive season has its own appeal. 

Choosing your season is very much a matter of personal preference, and there are pros and cons for each season. Summer cruises offer the most spectacular scenery, the longest daylight hours and the best weather, but the towns you visit will be far busier and you won’t be alone in port; in some smaller places, you may have to scramble across the decks of other boats to reach the shore.

Spring and autumn mean less time around the pool on the top deck, but quieter times ashore. Expect rains in spring, but also blooming flowers. Autumn is a great time to cruise the Douro, with grapes being picked and clement temperatures.

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Rhine River Cruises

Tauck's Rhine River cruises follow this romantic river on its winding journey through medieval towns, cathedrals, castles, and museums, with enchanting river landscapes along the way.

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Welcome to the Rhine River

Flowing through six countries, the Rhine River cuts deeply through mountains, meandering between hillside castles and age-old winelands. This is Germany's landscape at its most dramatic, with spectacular views of forested hillsides alternating with craggy cliffs... idyllic villages appearing around each bend... and half-timbered houses and Gothic churches that appear as if plucked from a fairy tale world.

Heidelberg, germany, history's all around you in heidelberg.

In Heidelberg – Germany's oldest university town – narrow cobblestoned lanes, shops and pubs housed in 17th-century structures in the Altstadt are kept lively by the cadence of 21st-century student life. On the hillside above the city, visit the romantic ruins of Heidelberg Castle, celebrated in writing by many, including the German poet Goethe and American writer Mark Twain, who both spent time here. Twain wrote about the striking red sandstone ruins of Schloss Heidelberg in "A Tramp Abroad"; they were a magnificent residence for Bavarian royalty from the 13th to 18th centuries. The castle is an imposing ensemble of buildings, from different architectural periods, surrounding a central courtyard; from its terrace and gardens, the sweeping views impress along with the feel of more than 600 years of history.

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Canals and more in amazing amsterdam.

Amsterdam is often called the "Venice of the North" because of its elaborate network of canals winding through a romantic historic center of cobbled streets and Dutch Renaissance architecture. A canal boat cruise reveals The Netherlands's historic capital from the inside (often with a slice of Dutch apple pie), as you glide along 17th-century waterways lined with trees, gabled merchant houses and vibrant urban life. During your visit to Amsterdam, Tauck also includes a tour of the Rijksmuseum, one of the world's most respected art museums, home to masterpieces of the Dutch Golden Age including Rembrandt's "Night Watch."

Köln, Germany

Exploring köln (cologne) on the river rhine.

One of Germany's oldest cities (founded in the 1st century AD), Köln (Cologne) was once a Roman provincial capital, and later a wealthy medieval trading port; the city was almost totally destroyed during World War II, but many of its architectural treasures have been restored – including the towering Kölner Dom (Cologne Cathedral), a twin-spired masterpiece of High Gothic architecture that is the centerpiece of the city. With Tauck, you'll visit this imposing cathedral, along with the nearby Roman Germanic Museum, housing extraordinary exhibits of archaelogical finds from the Köln region.

Jungfraujoch, Switzerland

Enjoy cocktails at the "top of europe" with an exclusive tauck reception at the jungfraujoch's ice palace.

As your mountain railway train ascends into the majestic Swiss Alps, you'll arrive at Kleine Scheidegg at the foot of the Eiger, then board a cogwheel train for the scenic climb to Europe's highest railway station, at the Jungfraujoch (perched at 11,333 feet above sea level). Here, at "the top of Europe," you'll find a restaurant, observatory, research station, a gallery of ice sculpture, and breathtaking views of the glacier-clad Bernese Alps, often called Switzerland's "jewel in the crown." And you'll enjoy a Tauck Exclusive... a private cocktail reception at the Ice Palace… taking time. of course, to savor the astounding views of the lofty peaks of the Eiger, Jungfrau and Mönch surrounding you!

The Rhinegau wine country

An exclusive evening at a rheingau wine estate overlooking the rhine.

The Rheingau ("Rhine district") is one of Germany's most important wine regions, where viticulture dates back to the time of Charlemagne (if not the Romans), and where many significant winemaking innovations have been developed over the years. As you cruise through the Rhine Valley and visit the region, you'll enjoy a Tauck Exclusive evening – featuring a special reception, dinner and entertainment – at a historic Rheingau wine estate perched in the mountains overlooking the Rhine, and surrounded by vineyards that have been producing local wines for centuries.

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Featured River, Small Ship and Land Journeys

Inspired by the destination.

For 90+ years, the Tauck family has had a passion for sailing — aboard small ships and yachts at sea, riverboats along great inland waterways, and at home on the rivers and lakes of Connecticut and New York. When we began blending our land experience with our strong passion for cruising in our first European river cruise back in 1992, we knew that no "ordinary" river cruise experience would do for our guests. We wanted them to travel Europe's rivers in the same beyond-the-ordinary Tauck style they experienced on our land trips. With that in mind, we searched to find a company to partner with that would share our values and our commitment to "do the right thing" by our guests... and found it in another family-owned company, Scylla. Together, we crafted a river cruise experience that was ahead of its time and inspired by the destinations we explore.

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Guest Favorites on the River Rhine

Explore by land and water, the treasures along the Rhine River... discover the inside of a fairy-tale castle during a private dinner with family in Burg Satzey... diverge from the Rhine to experience the Moselle River with its rich heritage of wine production... experience how the colorful fall foliage enhances the beauty along the banks of the river creating the perfect backdrop to Bavaria's most colorful festival... and immerse yourself in picture-book villages, wooded forests, and bier halls along the way. Four riverboat experiences that will give you a wonderful taste of Europe.

The rhine and moselle, rhine enchantment, milan to amsterdam, autumn along the rhine... munich's oktoberfest, castles on the rhine: family riverboat adventure, tauck's river cruise guide, rhine river facts.

Find interesting Rhine River facts – from key cities along its banks to history, culture, cuisine and more.

First Timer's Guide

Tauck's European river cruise guide will help you find the right Danube, Rhone, Rhine, Seine or Douro river cruise for you.

Why Take A Tauck River Cruise

Tauck River Cruising means traveling in good company, exclusive access to cultural experiences, distinctively inclusive pricing and more!

Choosing The Best European River Cruise For You

Find the best European river cruise for you with top-reviewed itineraries navigating all the major waterways from Tauck.

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Call us, or call your travel advisor, to book your preferred departure date today – and explore our beautiful brochures to find your inspiration for your next journey.

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Good Housekeeping UK

The best river cruises for a boutique European cruising experience

Posted: 17 May 2024 | Last updated: 17 May 2024

A voyage through some of Europe’s most picturesque waterways on a small cruise ship is the perfect way to explore more of a region than you might otherwise. And with some of the best cruise ships taking to Europe’s rivers on dazzling itineraries, there’s never been a better time to explore our home continent.

RIVER CRUISES WITH GH

From the Douro to the Rhine , Europe has some of the world's most scenic rivers that are best experienced on a small ship, where you can sail from little towns to historic cities via relaxing long stretches of countryside.

We've rounded up the best river cruises for boutique sailing, selecting those that combine the most carefully put-together itineraries aboard the loveliest ships, including a super-luxe option to explore the Venetian Lagoon in autumn 2024.

River cruises are also the perfect introduction to cruise holidays for first-timers, while those who already know and love the joy of discovering destinations by small ship will enjoy exploring new itineraries accompanied by famous faces, such as chef James Martin and historian Lucy Worsley .

Here are Good Housekeeping's pick of the best river cruises for exploring Europe's wonderful rivers, plus a few options for those who want to travel further afield.

Sail the magical Venetian Lagoon and hear Russell Watson sing

Venice is a captivating city, almost frozen in time, where astoundingly beautiful buildings line a maze of canals — it's no wonder the sheer decadence of this place captures the hearts of so many. Part of the thrill of visiting Venice is getting swept up in its narrow streets, peering into windows displaying intricately painted masks and feasting on plates of risotto in piazzas. Join Good Housekeeping's fantastic music-themed Venice cruise with world-renowned tenor Russell Watson, which includes an exclusive intimate concert in this stunning and historic city and seven nights on board a luxury ship. You'll explore the lagoon's elegant waterways aboard S.S La Venezia. It's an incredible eight-day itinerary that takes you around the Venetian Lagoon to visit places such as Chioggia, Torcello, Mazzorbo and Burano.

S.S. La Venezia matches Venice's splendour in its opulent fittings, filled with accents that honour its location, including exquisite Venetian masks and Murano glass. Everything's included on this five-star cruise, from delicious food and wines to a choice of excursions around the islands.

When? October 2024

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Taste Portuguese wines on a Douro River cruise

The gorgeous Douro Valley is an enchanting and peaceful pocket of Portugal, famed for its port wine and loved for its storybook-style beauty. Terraced vineyards rise steeply from the winding river and are dotted with whitewashed Quintas - the region's terracotta-roofed wine estates - making it a particularly scenic area for a relaxing river cruise.

Sit on the sundeck of a ship to watch the scenery pass by, and delight your palate with some of Portugal’s most sensational wines on an eight-day round-trip cruise on the Douro River. You'll be able to explore the area and learn more about its port production — with plenty of opportunities to sample it yourself on visits to rustic Quintas

After arriving in Porto to board the A-ROSA ALVA, you’ll sail to Régua, a pretty riverfront town that’s produced port since the 18th century. You'll follow the Douro, hopping from place to place to where Portugal borders Spain before turning back. A highlight is visiting a Quinta in Pinhão where, depending on the season, you might get to take part in the traditional grape harvest, picking and crushing the grapes underfoot .

When? June and September 2024

Visit Germany's famous Christmas markets along the Rhine

There are so many enchanting cities and villages along the banks of the Rhine, and they really come into their own in December. Germany is famed for its atmospheric Christmas markets, and many of the best in the country can be found along the Rhine, making a Christmassy cruise a fabulous way to explore them.

There's Mainz, one of the oldest cities in Germany, where you can visit a historic Christmas market on the Domplatz, set against a backdrop of the illuminated Mainz Cathedral. You'll want to visit Koblenz too, a city considered to have one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Germany, and one of the largest in the Rhineland.

Join Good Housekeeping for a festive voyage along the Rhine on the the beautiful ship A-ROSA Aqua and you'll visit Mainz and Koblenz as well as Frankfurt and Cologne, where the market takes place right in front of the famous Cologne Cathedral.

On board your ship you'll find a sauna, fitness area, and whirlpool to enjoy between your market trips, and ample breakfast, lunch and dinner buffets in the ship's lovely dining venues.

When? December 2024 FIND OUT MORE

Glide along the Danube and see the Lipizzaner horses in Vienna

The banks of the Danube have seen the rise and fall of empires and provided inspiration to some of Europe's greatest artists and composers. This grand river winds its way past mysterious hillside castles and ancient medieval towns and meanders through a range of culture-rich cities, including four European capitals . A river cruise is an unbeatable way to explore some of the cities straddling the Danube, allowing you to visit several towns, villages and cities on one trip, without having to organise local transport yourself.

One of the finest cities that the Danube flows through is Vienna, once the home of Mozart, where manicured gardens, chic coffee houses and baroque palaces will have you feeling like you've stepped back in time. It's also the home of the Royal Lipizzaner Stables at the Spanish Riding School, where grand Lipizzan horses perform a mesmerising type of equine ballet. On Good Housekeeping's Danube River cruise you can visit the Royal Lipizzaner Stables with historian Lucy Worsley. You'll enjoy an aperitif and a talk before watching the training of the young stallions in the imperial atmosphere of the Baroque winter riding school, as classical Viennese music plays.

When? September 2024

Sail further afield with a cruise through Vietnam and Cambodia

While Europe has more than its fair share of enchanting rivers, you're also spoilt for choice if you fancy a river cruise further afield.

Asia has several waterways which provide ideal routes for discovering new countries and cultures. Flowing through Myanmar, China, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia and Vietnam, the Mekong is one of the longest rivers in the world and home to an incredible range of wildlife.

It makes the ideal destination for a river cruise that combines culture, delicious cuisine and wildlife-spotting. You might spot species like the endangered Irrawaddy dolphin, giant freshwater stingray and giant catfish swimming alongside you.

Good Housekeeping is offering an immersive adventure along the Mekong through Cambodia and Vietnam. You'll sail in a Luxury Balcony suite aboard the Mekong Jewel, a luxurious and beautifully decorated ship, to visit unforgettable sights like the UNESCO-listed Angkor Wat temples and incredible cities like Phnom Penh and Hanoi.

There'll be ample opportunities to learn about the turbulent history of the region too, with visits to the infamous Killing Fields and a glimpse of the Viet Cong's network of tunnels dating back to the Vietnam War.

When? December 2024

Enjoy an Italian feast with James Martin in Venice

One thing that's synonymous with Italy is good food, and that's exactly what you can enjoy on this eight-day sailing around Venice and the Veneto region.

Tick off Venice's spectacular sights, including the Grand Canal, Rialto Bridge and St Mark's Basilica, which you'll visit after dark on our Good Housekeeping cruise . As part of our GH trip, you'll also get VIP access to the Doge's Palace, the stunning Venetian Gothic palace that dates back to 1340.

Sailing on the luxurious S.S. La Venezia , which accommodates only 126 guests and has a wonderfully intimate feel, you'll also visit the colourful, charming islands of Burano (pictured above), Mazzorbo and Torcello, all situated in the Lagoon of Venice.

If all of that wasn't exciting enough, the cherry on top will be meeting acclaimed chef James Martin, who will join you on board for the day to give a talk and partake in a Q&A and book-signing session. In addition, the much-loved Saturday Morning host will cook a delectable gala dinner one evening, too.

Discover local traditions as you sail the Ganges in a luxury ship

Another Asian adventure awaits on the Ganges, India's most sacred river. Sailing along this important body of water allows you a unique insight into life along its banks. It meanders 2,500km through the country from its starting point high in the Himalayas down through sprawling cities, tiny villages, and spectacular nature.

A Ganges cruise is a wonderful way to see some of India's best attractions, with highlights including the Rajbari temple complex in Kalna, the artisan village of Matiari, and the neoclassical Hazarduari Palace in Murshidabad.

Join Good Houskeeping's once-in-a-lifetime tour of India , which includes seven-night cruising in luxury down the Ganges. After exploring India's Golden Triangle – including a trip to witness both sunset and sunrise over the iconic Taj Mahal – you'll board the opulent Ganges Voyager II, a spectacular ship adorned with hand-painted murals, to explore the culture and history on the river banks. Of course, another highlight of India holiday is the cuisine, and you'll be joined on board by Michelin-starred British-Indian chef Atul Kochhar, who will share his passion for Indian cooking in a live demonstration.

When? November 2024

Discover the wonders of Egypt and sail the Nile

A brilliant option if you're itching to explore another continent is Egypt, where the Nile holds awe-inspiring archaeological treasures along its banks.

A cruise along this fabled river allows you to easily visit magnificent temples like Kom Ombo, Philae, and Edfu and to see the Valley of the Kings, the ancient burial grounds of Egyptian royalty. There are several more fascinating monuments to see along the way, including the towering twin statues known as the Colossi of Memnon. Join a cruise along the Nile with Good Housekeeping and you'll see all this and more while sailing on board the exceptional luxury ship, River Tosca. Making this river cruise even more special is the company of historian and author Lucy Worsley.

Lucy is an expert in Agatha Christie, who took inspiration from this region for one of her most famous works, Death on the Nile. You'll have afternoon tea at the hotel which features in the novel and Lucy will share her knowledge of the famous author's work during several Q&As and talks.

More cruise ideas:

- The best cruises for couples

- A guide to Northern Lights cruises

- The most beautiful Danube cities and towns

- A guide to Japan cruise holidays

- The most beautiful rivers in Europe

- The best small ship cruises

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Elektrostal, visit elektrostal, check elektrostal hotel availability, popular places to visit.

• Electrostal History and Art Museum

You can spend time exploring the galleries in Electrostal History and Art Museum in Elektrostal. Take in the museums while you're in the area.

• Cities near Elektrostal

• Places of interest
• Yuri Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center
• Central Museum of the Air Forces at Monino
• Peter the Great Military Academy
• Ramenskii History and Art Museum
• Bykovo Manor
• Pekhorka Park
• Balashikha Arena
• Malenky Puppet Theater
• Balashikha Museum of History and Local Lore
• Saturn Stadium
• Orekhovo Zuevsky City Exhibition Hall
• Noginsk Museum and Exhibition Center