If you’re looking for the best European river cruises to take in 2023, you’ve come to the right place. Most European river cruises combine culture as well as excellent sightseeing with modern amenities on purpose-built river ships.
River cruising is definitely one of the best ways to see Europe. You can travel in comfort, unpacking only once, and stopping to explore charming medieval towns and cities along the way. And there’s no better way to experience the continent’s stunning scenery than from the deck of a river cruise ship. Modern European river cruise ships are spacious and well-equipped, with everything you need for a relaxed and enjoyable journey. Most have large picture windows or French balconies or even verandas with space to sit outside your cabin, so you can take in the views as you glide down the river. And they offer a range of facilities, including restaurants, alternative dining venues, bars, swimming pools, wellness spas, hot tub and shops.
Included in your luxury river cruise experience, provided by luxury river cruise lines such as Uniworld, Scenic, APT, and AmaWaterways will usually be a choice of daily guided tours, full board, which includes excellent food served at your table rather than a buffet and will feature local produce and dishes.
In this blog post, we’ll discuss some of the best rivers for cruising in Europe as well as the best cruises on European rivers. So whether you are wanting to visit quaint villages, and medieval cities or cruise past castles on the romantic Rhine, we’ll provide information on some of the most popular cruise destinations in Europe. Whether you’re interested in a Rhine cruise, a Danube cruise, or a cruise on any other European river in 2023, with our insiders guide, we’ve got you covered!
Best river cruises in Europe to take in 2023
The best luxury river cruise ships generally operate on the following rivers:
Rhine river cruises – Sail through the beautiful Castles on The Rhine
A cruise along the Rhine River is the perfect way to see some of Europe’s most beautiful scenery. The river winds its way through a number of countries, including Germany, France, and Switzerland. Along the way, passengers can enjoy stunning views of castles in the middle Rhine Gorge, cliffs, and vineyards. There are also a number of interesting cities to explore, such as Cologne, with its magnificent cathedral, and Strasbourg, with its beautiful old town. Or the Black Forest area can be reached by a coach journey from the ship.
A Rhine cruise is a great way to relax and see some of Europe’s best-loved sights.
What not to miss on a Rhine river cruise!
Some of the highlights of a Rhine River cruise not to miss include the following:
* The Lorelei Rock: This towering limestone cliff is one of the most iconic sights on the river. Legend has it that a beautiful maiden named Lorelei lures sailors to their doom with her singing.
* The castles of Heidelberg and Nuremberg: These imposing fortresses offer a glimpse into Europe’s turbulent past. Visitors can explore the magnificent halls and chambers, and learn about the events that took place within their walls.
* The Christmas markets of Cologne: From late November through December, Cologne’s Christmas markets are a must-see. The city’s numerous squares come alive with stalls selling traditional food, drink, and gifts.
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Moselle river cruises – time to taste the world-famous Riesling wines
A Moselle river cruise is a great way to see the sights of Germany, France, and Luxembourg. The Moselle river winds its way through picturesque villages and towns, past vineyards and castles, and into the heart of some of Europe’s most historic cities. Highlights of a Moselle cruise include stops in the towns of Cochem and Bernkastel, as well as visits to the imposing castles that line the river. The valley is home to some of Germany’s most beautiful scenery, and a cruise allows you to see it all from the comfort of your own cabin. On a Moselle river cruise, you’ll have the opportunity to sample local wines, explore medieval castles, and visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites. And because the Moselle river is one of the busiest waterways in Europe, you’ll be able to witness a wide variety of river traffic, from barges and pleasure boats to passenger ferries and cargo ships. Whether you’re looking for a leisurely way to explore Europe or an exciting way to see some of its most iconic landmarks, a Moselle river cruise is sure to please.
What not to miss on a Moselle river cruise!
A Moselle River cruise is the perfect way to explore this beautiful region of Germany. The river wind its way through the stunning countryside, past medieval castles and quaint villages. There are a number of different routes available, so it’s easy to find one that suits your interests. Here are just a few of the highlights that you won’t want to miss on a Moselle River cruise.
The first stop on any Moselle River cruise should be Trier, Germany’s oldest city. Founded by the Romans more than 2,000 years ago, Trier is full of historical landmarks, including the Porta Nigra, the world’s largest surviving Roman gate. The city also has a number of museums and galleries, as well as plenty of shopping and dining options.
Next on your itinerary should be Cochem, a charming wine-producing town located in the heart of the Moselle Valley. Be sure to visit the Reichsburg Castle, which offering dramatic views over the town and river below. You can also take a cable car up to the top of nearby Pinnerkopf Mountain for even more stunning panoramas.
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Main river cruises – the gateway between the Rhine and the Danube rivers
Main river cruises offer travelers a unique way to experience some of Europe’s most iconic cities. These cruises typically travel between Frankfurt and Budapest, stopping in cities like Wurzburg, Nuremberg, Regensburg, Passau, and Vienna along the way.
Douro River Cruises – Find the treasures of the Douro in Portugal
Wine tasting, gourmet food, spectacular scenery… – the riches of the Douro river can be uncovered during river cruises from Porto in Northern Portugal to Salamanca in Northern Spain. Enjoy medieval architecture and a rich local taste in the Portuguese vineyard, before stepping west into peace and quiet on the secluded coastline. Excursions allow visitors to visit the finest towns of Portugal along the way, including the pottery-laden Lamego and the walled 12th century village of Castelo Rodrigo. You will have a Flamenco performance and visit Salamanca – a historic city with a fascinating heritage.
If you’d like to dig deeper into Douro river cruises, read our blog “Portugal’s Best River Cruises: Unforgettable Experiences on the Douro”
What not to miss on a Douro river cruise!
Firstly, the scenery is simply breathtaking and makes the Douro probably the most scenic river cruise in Europe. The Douro valley is one of Europe’s most picturesque wine regions, and a cruise is the perfect way to take it all in.
Secondly, you’ll have the chance to try some of the region’s finest wines. Many cruises include stops at local wineries, where you can tour the facilities and taste the wine straight from the barrel. Thirdly, the food in this region is incredible. You’ll be able to sample traditional dishes such as Portuguese roast chicken and fresh seafood, often accompanied by locally-grown olive oil and bread.
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Seine River Cruises – Soak in the scenery along the Seine
The Seine is famous for its stunning scenery, including the apple orchards, weeping willows and shingling cottages that stretch along the river. The trip starts from Paris and often travels to the historic town of Rouen where you can explore the historic landing beaches of D Day and the WW2 cemeteries.
In the summer cruises visit Versailles Palace and Monet’s house and gardens in Giverny. But the best bit, though, is that the boat is often docked close to the centre of Paris at the start and last part of the tour, and all its world-famous sights can be accessed from the Champs Elysees, Eiffel Tower to Montmartre. With your own luxury ship to come back to at the end of a day of sightseeing, a luxury river cruise is one of the best ways to see Paris and the surrounding area.
What not to miss on a Seine river cruise!
One of the most popular stops on a Seine river cruise is the city of Rouen. Rouen is best known for its Gothic cathedral, which was immortalized in a series of paintings by Claude Monet. The cathedral is definitely worth a visit, but be sure to also explore the medieval old town, with its quaint cobbled streets and half-timbered houses.
Another must-see stop on a Seine river cruise is the palace of Versailles. This sumptuous palace was once the home of Louis XIV, and it’s easy to see why he loved it so much. From the glittering Hall of Mirrors to the beautiful gardens, there’s plenty to explore. And if you’re lucky enough to visit on a Sunday, you can watch the impressive musical fountain show.
Of course, no trip to France would be complete without tasting some of its delicious food. Luckily, there are plenty of opportunities to do just that!
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Discover the Blue Danube
The Danube is the heart and soul of Central Europe. Awaken in new locations in your life: Vienna – quaint Bratislava – home to one of Europe’s most beautiful Christmas markets. It should be soon evident how Budapest – Pearl of the Danube – got its nickname. On the west bank of the river you will find the medieval city of Buda.
Danube river cruises are a popular way to see many of Europe’s most iconic cities, and a cruise from Budapest is a great option for first-time visitors. The Danube river runs through ten different countries, so a cruise offers the chance to see a variety of landscapes and cultures. Highlights of a Danube cruise from Budapest can include stops in Vienna, where you can see the city’s famous Opera House and stroll through its elegant parks; in Salzburg, where you can visit the birthplace of Mozart; and in Passau, Germany, where you can explore its medieval streets and Gothic churches. A Danube cruise from Budapest is an excellent way to experience some of Europe’s most famous sights.
What not to miss on a Danube river cruise!
Of course, no trip down the Danube would be complete without a stop in Vienna. The city is home to a wealth of architectural wonders, including the State Opera House and the Hofburg Palace. Art lovers will also enjoy visiting Vienna’s many museums, which offer everything from classical paintings to contemporary works.
Discover history and nature along the Eastern Danube
Beyond Budapest, the lower Danube stretches across the South Carpathian Mountains in a vast expanse of steppes as a winding route leads to Romania’s marshy delta. Along the road are cool cities like Novi Sad and Belgrade interspersed by forests around Bulgaria and Serbia. There is a rich history in Veliko târnovo, the former city of Bulgaria. The medieval fort of Baba Vidin is also located there. This also offers a chance to discover the tragic events that happened in the recently-completed Balkan conflict, and halted the flow for decades.
The Danube River iron gates are one of the most impressive feats of engineering in history. The gates were built over 2,000 years ago to protect the Roman city of Carnuntum from floods. Each gate is made of iron-clad wood and weighs up to 60 tons. The gates are anchored in the riverbed and can be raised or lowered to control the water level. When the water is high, the gates are raised to allow the water to flow through. When the water is low, the gates are lowered to prevent flooding. The iron gates are a testimony to the ingenuity of the Ancient Romans and their ability to harness the power of nature. Today, the iron gates are a popular tourist attraction, and they stand as a reminder of the city’s mighty past.
What not to miss on a lower Danube river cruise!
A lower Danube river cruise will visit the Danube delta and is the perfect way to see one of Europe’s most stunning natural regions up close. The delta is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including over 300 species of birds, and the lazy meandering of the river through the landscape makes for a relaxing and invigorating experience. There are a few things not to miss on a Danube delta river cruise. First, be sure to keep your eyes peeled for wildlife; with a little patience, you’re sure to spot at least a few of the delta’s many resident creatures. Second, take time to explore the small villages dotting the riverbanks; each has its own unique history and culture. Finally, don’t forget to enjoy the simple pleasure of watching the world float by from the deck of your boat; it’s an unforgettable experience.
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Admire windmills, tulips, and art on the Dutch and Belgian waterways
The Netherlands and Belgium are home to some of the most beautiful and iconic waterways in the world. From the canals of Amsterdam to fields of colorful tulips at Spring, these countries offer a wealth of scenic delights. Windmills dot the landscape, adding a touch of nostalgia, while works of art by renowned masters can be found in museums and galleries throughout the region.
The most popular time is spring when the river networks cross the rolling terrain where the numerous armies flow into the northern waters. The fields of Spring are glowing with scarlets, orange, and yellow leaves, while a day at the award-winning Keukenhof Gardens, open from March until early May is rewarded with flowers.
What not to miss on a Dutch & Belgian waterways river cruise!
Windmills have been a fixture of the Dutch landscape for centuries, and they make for an impressive sight. You may even have the opportunity to go inside one of these historic buildings and learn about how they were used to drain water from the nearby marshes.
Art lovers will be in heaven when they see the works of some of history’s most famous painters on display in the many museums and galleries located along the waterways. From Rembrandt to Van Gogh, there’s no shortage of world-class art to admire.
And last but not least, there are the tulips. No trip to Holland would be complete without seeing these iconic flowers in bloom. Whether you choose to walk through a tulip field or simply admire them from the comfort of your boat, you’re sure to be impressed.
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Cruise the Rhône to Provence
Best for a stunning landscape a sail along the Rhône, the most beautiful European river, shows one of the best landscapes of France. Highlights include winding through Burgundy and the sun-soaked countryside of Provence. Along it, you will explore Lyon, the historic centre of this beautiful city.
What not to miss on a Rhone & Saone river cruise!
The river winds its way through picturesque countryside, past medieval villages and grand chateaux. And of course, no cruise would be complete without a stop in the city of Avignon, home to the magnificent Palais des Papes. But there are also many other wonderful things to see and do along the way. Here are just a few of the highlights:
Lyon: Often called the gastronomic capital of France, Lyon is a foodie’s paradise. Be sure to sample some of the local specialties like quenelles and saucisson Lyonnais. And don’t miss a visit to one of the city’s world-famous bouchons, traditional taverns serving hearty regional fare.
Arles: This lovely Provencal town was once home to Vincent van Gogh, and it’s easy to see why he was so inspired by its sun-drenched landscapes. Arles is also home to a well-preserved Roman amphitheater and numerous art galleries.
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Explore the Venetian lagoon & River Po
A luxurious and unobtrusive river cruise ship can be the best choice for exploring the city of Venice and the misty lagoon islands. Usually you spend 3-4 nights at San Basilio on Giudecca canal. From the lagoon to the water levels permitting along the Po, there’s also Murano island, famous for its brightly painted homes and in shades of orange, green, and shocking pink. Being moored in Venice and able to explore all the world-famous sites such as the Dodge’s Palace, the Rialto Bridge and St Marks Square is an unforgettable experience.
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What is the best month for a European river cruise in 2023?
There is no bad time to take a river cruise through Europe. In the spring, the flowers are in bloom and the weather is pleasant. The summer months are warm and sunny, providing the perfect opportunity to relax on deck and enjoy the stunning scenery. Fall is a great time to see the leaves changing color, and winter river cruises offer the chance to experience the festive atmosphere of European Christmas markets. However, if you’re looking for the best month to take a river cruise, May and June is your best bet. The weather is mild, the crowds are thin, and there are plenty of activity options for everyone in the group.
Conclusion:
Finally, having been in the business for nearly 10 years, we can safely say that the best European river cruise will be the one that’s right for you.
However, Europe is home to some of the most iconic rivers in the world, and there is no better way to experience them than on a river cruise. In 2023, however, in our opinion, there are a few river cruises in Europe that are especially worth considering. One option is the Danube River Cruise, which travels through several countries, including Austria, Hungary, and Germany. This cruise offers passengers the opportunity to see a variety of different cultures and landscapes. Another great option is the Rhine River Cruise, which winds its way through the picturesque Alps. This cruise is perfect for anyone who loves breathtaking scenery and charming villages. If scenery and a slower pace are for you, then you need to try The Douro.
Finally, the Seine River Cruise is ideal for those who want to explore the city of Paris in depth. No matter what your interests are, there is sure to be a river cruise in Europe that is perfect for you.
If you’d like a personal recommendation, then we are here to help.
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About Alex Leete
Who is Alex Leete? A passion for travel and over 15 years' experience in the industry encouraged me to set up Global River Cruising, our own family run company. Over the last few years we have been on as many river cruises, ships and seen as many destinations as we possibly can so we can rightfully call ourselves "experts". As independent specialists we work hard to find the perfect river cruise for our clients - at the very best prices too!
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