River cruises are a great way to explore iconic European cities. The ease of travel, onboard amenities, exclusive excursions, and personal guides make it an attractive option for those seeking to immerse themselves in the culture and history of cities like Vienna, Budapest, and Paris.
Keep on reading to find out why river cruises are perfect for city break lovers! Or get in touch to discuss your cruise preferences by calling (0800 471 4754) or sending us an email.
Explore European Cities as Part of a River Cruise
The Ease of Travel on a River Cruise
One of the key advantages of embarking on a river cruise to explore European cities is the ease of travel it offers. Unlike traditional land-based travel, river cruises eliminate the need for constant packing and unpacking, as you can unpack once and wake up each day in a new and exciting destination.
Onboard Meals and Amenities
River cruises are known for their excellent onboard dining experiences, with meals prepared by top chefs using locally sourced ingredients. From gourmet dinners to casual lunches, you can indulge in a variety of culinary delights while sailing along Europe’s picturesque waterways. Additionally, river cruise ships offer a range of amenities such as lounges, libraries, fitness centres, and sun decks, providing you with comfort and relaxation during their journey.
Exclusive Excursions and Personalised Guides
One of the highlights of a river cruise is the opportunity to participate in exclusive excursions that offer unique insights into each city’s history, art, and culture. From guided walking tours to private museum visits, these excursions are led by knowledgeable guides who provide a personalised and in-depth look at the destinations.
Our Favourite European Cities to Explore
Among the many European cities that can be explored as part of a river cruise, Budapest, Vienna, Porto, and Basel stand out as our favourites.
Vienna
Known for its cultural heritage, Vienna offers a blend of imperial grandeur and contemporary charm. From the iconic Schönbrunn Palace to the historic St. Stephen’s Cathedral, you can immerse yourself in the city’s rich history and artistic legacy.
8 Days | Passau – Budapest
This quintessential cruise along the beautiful Danube connects Passau, the ‘Three Rivers City’ of the Inn, Ilz, and Danube, with the Hungarian capital city of Budapest. Traverse four of Europe’s most important countries while visiting three world-famous capital cities. This scenic cruise through beautiful landscapes, including the UNESCO-protected Wachau Valley, is full of culture, history and charm.
Budapest
The capital of Hungary, Budapest is a city of stunning architecture, thermal baths, and vibrant nightlife. You can explore the majestic Buda Castle, soak in the healing waters of the Széchenyi Thermal Bath, and enjoy panoramic views of the city from Fisherman’s Bastion.
8 Days | Budapest – Vilshofen
Journey along the Danube and see first-hand why this storied river has inspired generations of artists, poets and musicians. Indulge your passion for timeless architecture and art in four magnificent capitals: Budapest, Bratislava and Vienna.
Paris
The “City of Lights” needs no introduction, with its world-renowned landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral. A river cruise along the Seine offers you a unique perspective of Paris, showcasing its beauty and elegance from the water.
8 Days | Paris Round Trip
From Paris’s glittering Eiffel Tower to the iconic beaches of Normandy to the medieval capital of Rouen, the serene Seine carries you through the countryside immortalized by so many great artists.
Porto
Located along the Douro River in Portugal, Porto is famous for its wine, architecture, and charming riverside setting. You can visit historic port wine cellars, stroll through the colourful Ribeira district, and admire the iconic Dom Luís I Bridge.
8 Days | Porto Round Trip
One of Europe’s best kept secrets in one of its most undiscovered corners, explore the sleepy villages and medieval towns unchanged for centuries, amongst the breathtaking rolling hills and terraced vineyard slopes of the stunning Douro Valley.
Basel
As Switzerland’s cultural capital, Basel offers a mix of medieval charm and modern sophistication. You can visit world-class museums such as the Fondation Beyeler, or stroll through the picturesque Old Town.
8 Days | Amsterdam – Basel
Sweep across the heart of Europe on the illustrious Rhine River, one of the great passageways of the continent. From its source in the Swiss Alps to its mouth at the North Sea, the Rhine flows through six countries, introducing you to a collection of unforgettable sights and experiences — from the majestic Rhine Gorge to the medieval splendour of Heidelberg and Rüdesheim.
Whether strolling through historic streets, sampling local cuisine, or marvelling at iconic landmarks, a river cruise offers a truly unforgettable journey through some of Europe’s most captivating destinations. Book your river cruise today and embark on an adventure of a lifetime!
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About Christine Foulds
I’m originally from Germany and traveling has always been a part of my family’s DNA. Over the past 20 years, I’ve lived and worked in 5 different countries (USA, Austria, Russia, Peru and the UK) and learnt to speak 3 foreign languages (Russian and Spanish are getting a bit rusty though). I thoroughly enjoy working with travel enthusiasts who like to explore and visit new parts of the world as much as I do.
View all posts by Christine Foulds