all right Cruisers we've got a great video for you today we'll be counting down the top
10 European river cruises highlighting the best routes and experiences each one has to offer so
sit back relax and let's get cruising make sure to subscribe to wonderfully lost for more trending
travel guides in less than 10 minutes number 10. Poe river cruise this route travels through the
heart of Italy from the foothills of the Alps to the Adriatic Sea it's a great way to explore the
culture and history of the country while taking in the beautiful scenery along the way the cruise
typically starts in Venice where you can explore the city's famous canals gondolas and architecture
from there you'll head to Verona home of Shakespeare's famous play Romeo and Juliet you can
even visit Juliet's famous balcony wander in her Gardens and write a letter asking for love advice
it may get answered by one of the volunteers tasked with sifting through and responding
to them the next stop on the cruise is bologna known for its beautiful medieval architecture and
delicious Cuisine you'll end in the port of the island of kyoja like Venice kyoja is connected by
a series of waterways and canals giving it that magical Italian Ambience but in a less touristy
setting number 9. Moses L river cruise on this Cruise you'll travel through Germany Luxembourg
and France with stops in cities such as Trier burn castle and cockham the cruise typically starts in
Trio which is Germany's oldest city and is known for its well-preserved Roman ruins next the cruise
will take you to Bern Castle a Charming medieval Town located on the banks of the Moselle River the
town is known for its picturesque half-timbered houses and wine culture you can visit the town's
wine museum and taste as much of the delicious local wine as your heart and pallet desires the
next stop is cockham a small town in the heart of the Moselle wine region the Moselle meets up
with the Rhine and coblens and you can continue cruising down the Rhine to extend your trip along
the way you'll pass fairy tale castles medieval Villages and plenty of Vineyards number eight Han
river cruise this popular cruise travels through France typically starting in Lyon Le Leon is known
as the gastronomic capital of France and is famous for its Fine Wines and award-winning Cuisine the
next stop on the cruise is Avignon known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and
its famous bridge The Pawn San benaze the city is also home to the Palace of the popes which
was the residence of the popes during the 14th century the cruise continues to Owl a small town
located in the heart of Provence famous for being the inspiration for many of Van Gogh's paintings
the cruise ends in the port of Tasker a small Scenic Town located on the banks of the horn River
number 7. Elba river cruise this Cruise typically starts in Prague known as the city of a hundred
spiers due to its skyline of Steeples spiers and Towers current counts put the number of spiers
closer to 1 000 but the number 100 has stuck in the city's nickname the next stop on the cruise
is Dresden known as the Florence of the elbe due to its Baroque architecture visitors can explore
the famous zwinger Palace and the frown Kush a beautiful 18th century church that was rebuilt
after the second world war the cruise continues to miceen a small town located on the banks of
the elbe river and ends in the port of magdeburg a small and picturesque City located in the heart
of Germany number six guadalcabia river cruise get ready to cruise through Spain you'll start
in Seville the capital of Andalusia and one of the most beautiful cities in Spain explore the
historic Old Town see the famous Alcazar Palace and take in the garalda tower next up you'll head
to Cordoba known for its well-preserved historic Center and its famous mosque the mosquito the
mosque is a blend of Islamic and Christian architecture and is considered one of the
most important buildings of the Islamic Golden Age The Cruise continues to the town of Palace
de La Frontera and ends in the Port of San Luca de barrameda here make sure to check out the famous
Sherry Sellers and enjoy a glass before heading to the beach for a day of relaxation number 5.
Doro River Cruise get ready to head to Portugal and Spain on this picturesque and relaxing Cruise
you were bought in Porto where you can explore the city's famous port wine lodges check out the
rabaro district known for its Lively atmosphere and stunning views of the River the next stop on
the cruise is the scenic town of ragua located in the heart of the Doro Valley visitors can explore
The Vineyards visit traditional wine lodges and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the region
the cruise continues to Vega de teron a small town located on the banks of the Doro River and ends in
the city of Salamanca a UNESCO world heritage site check out the new cathedral and the old Cathedral
hint despite its name the new cathedral is not that new it dates back to the 16th century number
4. sen river cruise this cruise travels through France with stops in cities such as Paris and
Normandy you'll typically born in Paris where you can explore famous landmarks like the Eiffel Tower
the Louvre Museum and Notre Dame Cathedral next you'll head to the town of Vernon located on the
banks of the sen River here you can explore the famous Claude Monet's House and Garden in gaverni
Monet lived in gaverni for more than 40 years and painted some of his most famous works there maybe
you'll get hit with some artistic inspiration the cruise then continues to the city of Ruin where
Monet painted even more of his famous paintings this almost feels like a Monet Cruise it ends
in the port of lahav a small town located on the San Estuary number three Danube river cruise this
Cruise typically starts in Vienna known as the most livable city in the world due to its Parks
woods and Vineyards while here take a stroll through the famous and beautiful Vienna Woods
a favorite of locals and tourists alike the next stop is the beautiful city of Budapest Hungary the
city is divided by the Danube River with Buddha on one side and pest on the other visitors can
explore the famous landmarks such as the Buddha castle the Hungarian Parliament building and the
seicheni thermal bath this is one of the largest bath spas in Europe with 18 pools heated by
natural thermal Springs the cruise continues on to the city of Bratislava the capital of Slovakia and
you'll end in Passau known for its beautiful Baroque architecture and its location at the
Confluence of the Danube in and ills Rivers number 2. Rhine River Cruise we've reached our number two
pick on today's list this Cruise takes you through Germany Switzerland and the Netherlands you'll
typically start off in Frankfurt and then head to the city of coblens located at weather Rhine and
the Moselle rivers meet here you can explore the deutsches the exact meeting spot of the two rivers
and the Ian brightstein Fortress the cruise continues to the city of rudesheim with its
beautiful medieval architecture famous drosogasse street and wine culture you'll end in Amsterdam
where you can check out its famous canals museums and landmarks don't miss the van Gogh Museum
number one Norwegian River Cruise all right we've made it to our number one pick the Norwegian River
Cruise should be on everybody's bucket list whether you are a cruise novice or an expert
this is frequently rated as one of the most beautiful cruises in the world you'll start
in Bergen known for its beautiful fjords make sure to see the famous Floyd band funicular
which offers stunning views of the city and the surrounding fjords the next stop is the city of
Alison known for its Art Nouveau architecture and picturesque Coastal Landscapes check out
the axler Viewpoint and get some pictures while you're there you'll end in the city
of Trondheim where you can visit the nederross cathedral and the stunning archbishop's Palace
overall this cruise is not one to miss make sure to smash that subscribe button for more awesome
travel videos in 10 minutes or less
River cruises have become a traveler’s dream come true. There is nothing more exciting than sailing through the waterways while feasting our eyes on shifting landscapes and stopping at historic sites on the way.
If you are planning a trip to Europe, this guide is going to be your best bet. Here are Europe’s top 10 stunning river cruises that will help you navigate through the continent’s rich heritage.
Be sure to check out our travel planning resources at the end, and if your time on our site is as WANDERFUL as we hope, we’d be super thrilled to have you share this post with your fellow wanderers.
1. Guadalquivir River Cruise
One of the best ways to explore Spain is to embark on the Guadalquivir River cruise that goes through the historic city of Seville, the capital of Andalusia, said to be built by Hercules himself.
Sevilla is an enchanting city with a striking mixture of Arab and Christian culture. The city invites us to know a little of its history through its monuments. The river tour offers breathtaking views that are an amalgamation of old and modern Seville.
One can see the Giralda, the bell tower of Seville Cathedral, which was once a minaret of a mosque, and other popular attractions – like the ‘Tower of Gold’ Torre del Oro and the Plaza de Toros de la Real Maestranza – from different vantage points.
And while you’re in Seville, SKIP THE LINE when you visit the most popular monuments!
2. Moselle River Cruise
If wine intertwined with a rich history is your cup of tea, then this cruise might just be for you. The Moselle River cruise travels through Germany, Luxembourg, and France, with stops in cities such as Trier, Bernkastel-Kues, and Cochem.
The exploration begins in the city of Trier, Germany’s oldest city, known for its well-preserved Roman ruins.
The next stop is at Bernkastel-Kues, a charming medieval town with half-timbered houses located on the banks of the Moselle River. It invites visitors to the town’s wine museum with an unlimited tasting of delicious local wine.
ALWAYS TRAVEL PREPARED with our Travel Like a Professional Kit!
3. Po River Cruise
If you are a hopeless romantic or have an eye for natural beauty, going on the Po River cruise is an ideal way to explore the many wonders of Italy. Beginning in Venice, the city of canals and gondola rides, the tour continues through the scenic landscapes of the Veneto region.
Much to the appeal of the romantic, the cruise ventures into the city of Verona, which is the heart of Shakespeare’s famous play Romeo And Juliet. And the last stop is the bustling port of Genoa, with its maze-like tangle of narrow alleyways full of hidden artistic treasures. It’s an island much similar to Venice but less touristy, giving a traveler a chance to unravel the many hidden gems in it. Also known as the street food capital of Italy, it is particularly a treat for a foodie.
4. Elbe River Cruise
Next on our list is a cruise that will help you maximize your trip by providing a diverse experience. This cruise takes the travelers through a unique blend of German and Czech heritage, you’ll get to explore the best of both countries.
It begins in the city of Mozart, which is also known as the city of a hundred spires. It is Prague, the city that offers a skyline of hundreds of steeples spires.
The river then takes us through the architectural gems of Dresden – such as the Zwinger Palace, famous worldwide for its masterpiece of baroque architecture dating back to the time of Augustus the Strong.
The cruise sails through the banks of the Elbe River and ends in the port of Magdeburg, a 1200-year-old small city in Germany, which houses the burial site of Emperor Otto I.
5. Rhône River Cruise
This one begins along the Rhône River in the city of Lyon, popularly known as the gastronomic capital of France that offers exquisite wines in Burgundy and Beaujolais. If this wasn’t appealing enough, it has award-winning cuisine and more restaurants than any other place in France.
With satiated stomachs, sail along the Avignon, home to the magnificent Palais des Papes, a white granite majesty that sits at the highest point in Avignon. It was the residence of the Popes during the 14th century and a symbol of power; considered to be the most fortified palace of the time, with 10-foot-thick walls.
Cross the famous medieval bridge Pont d’Avignon making your way towards Arles, a small town located in the heart of Provence. It is worth a visit for those with a flair for the arts, as it is famous for being the inspiration behind many of Van Gogh’s paintings.
6. Seine River Cruise
Beginning with the enchanting city of Paris, the Seine River cruise will take you through all the famous landmarks that you ever dreamt of seeing in real life – the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and the Notre Dame Cathedral.
The journey will continue through the heart of Normandy where historic sites like the D-Day landing beaches and the beautiful town of Rouen signifying great historic significance as the place where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake.
On the quest to explore art, one must visit the famous Claude Monet’s House and Garden in Giverny. The artist Monet lived in Giverny for more than 40 years and painted some of his most famous works there, this could just be the place to get some artistic inspiration.
The cruise then continues to the city of Rouen, where Monet painted even more of his famous paintings. The trip ends at the port of Le Havre, a small town located on the San Estuary.
7. Douro River Cruise
This particular cruise explores the hidden gem of Portugal by gently lapping through the scenic Douro Valley, famous for its terraced vineyards and charming wine-producing town. One can indulge in port wine tastings while exploring the vibrant city of Porto.
The cruise makes its way to Vega de Terron, positioned on the Portuguese border, it is a small Spanish port town that is a popular passageway to the ancient university city, Salamanca. It features quiet streets, lush landscapes, and friendly locals that make up this slow-paced town which is half-surrounded by beautiful waterways.
The last stop is Salamanca city in Spain, a UNESCO world heritage site, for it has one of the oldest existing universities in Europe.
8. Danube River Cruise
One of the grandest adventures a river cruise has to offer: sailing across the Danube River which stretches across ten countries.
The journey begins in Vienna, known as the most livable city in the world due to its parks, woods, and vineyards while holding an almost imperial elegance.
The next stop is the beautiful city of Budapest in Hungary, the city is divided by the Danube River with Buda on one side and Pest on the other which were joined by bridges to become Budapest in 1873.
In this city known as the Pearl on the Danube River, one can explore famous landmarks such as the Buda Castle, the Hungarian Parliament building, and the Széchenyi Baths. This is one of the largest bath spas in Europe with 18 pools heated by natural thermal springs.
The cruise continues to the city of Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia and you’ll end in Passau, a city in Germany, known for its beautiful Baroque architecture and its location at the confluence of the Danube.
9. Rhine River Cruise
If you wish to step into a real-life fairytale-like journey, this cruise has everything you would ever want to see. Starting from Frankfurt and then heading to one of the oldest cities of Germany – Koblenz – located at the junction of the Rhine and Moselle rivers.
Here you can explore the monument at Deutsches Eck or ‘the German corner’, medieval castles, and a beautiful riverfront promenade making it worth a visit. The cruise continues to the city of Rüdesheim am Rhein which is in the culturally-rich Rhine Valley known for winemaking.
The stunning Rhine Gorge is dotted with castles and breathtaking vineyards. With the famous Drosselgasse in the center, a street lined with shops, taverns, and restaurants, there is a whole lot to experience in this region.
10. Norwegian River Cruise
Our number one pick is a cruise that should be on everybody’s bucket list, whether you are a cruise novice or an expert.
This one is frequently rated as one of the most beautiful cruises in the world for it cruises down the Norwegian River through which Norway’s breathtaking fjords can be seen. Known for its deep blue waters, towering mountain peaks, and abundant waterfalls, it’s a sight to behold.
The tour begins from the city of Bergen, where the famous funicular can be seen up Mount Floyd, giving a stunning view of the Bergen harbor area.
The next stop is the city of Alesund, surrounded by stunning coastal scenery. The town was burned to the ground in 1904, with only a few houses surviving the devastation. A new town rose phoenix-like from the ashes – in the distinctive Art Nouveau style.
The cruise ends at Trondheim, where you can visit the Archbishop’s Palace and Nidaros Cathedral which is Norway’s gothic masterpiece and a popular pilgrimage site built over the tomb of Olav the Viking King.
Pack your bags and embark on a luxurious river cruise, and allow Europe’s breathtaking waterways to guide you through a tapestry of beauty and discovery. Bon voyage!
VACATION PLANNING RESOURCES:
We partner with Cruise Critic so you can find the best deals on cruises all over the world.
Get CASH BACK ON ALL TRAVEL with WayAway Plus. Enjoy 10% off on us with ‘Wanderful10’.
Let the WayAway flight aggregator find you cheap flights with the tool below.
Disclaimer: This post includes affiliate links. If you click on one, we may receive a small, but wanderful commission at no extra cost to you. Thanks for WANDERING with us!