River cruises may not be the fastest way to get around, but this blissful mode of travel grants the gift of time – a perfect way to explore the rivers of Europe and beyond, writes Joanna Tovia.
Nowhere else in the world is better suited to river cruises than Europe. Whether drifting by picturesque fields of poppies, gliding past medieval hilltop villages, or docking in cities you’ve long dreamed about, river cruising immerses you in each destination. Unpacking once is part of the appeal. Waking up to a different view out your window each day is definitely another.
Wake at sunrise and fancy a walk along the river? Docked along the shore, it’s easy to make a spontaneous decision for a morning stroll. You’ll want to be back in time for breakfast, though, because it’s likely to be a celebration of local cuisine – and no one wants to miss out on that. And why river cruises in Europe offer an unparalleled way to explore the Continent.
River cruises in Europe from Paris
Paris is a popular place to begin any of the river cruises in Europe, especially if you’d like to spend a few days in the French capital. Viking’s ‘Cities of Light’ river cruise from Paris to Prague includes a two-night stay in Paris, with optional guided tours in the French capital. Several of Viking’s eight new river ships have been purpose-built to navigate the historic Seine River. Allowing them to dock in an exclusive spot in the centre of Paris, that’s neatly positioned for travellers.
The 12-day cruise meanders through France, Germany and the Czech Republic before guests disembark in Prague. Shore excursions in Prague alone range from a tour of Lobkowicz Palace, designed just for Viking by Prince William. To a folklore evening of food, dance and wine, and a ‘Prague by Night’ tour that takes in the city’s medieval sites.
Viking’s newest river cruises in Europe, starting from April 2023, takes in some of the prettiest (and tastiest) spots with a 15-day tour through Lyon, Provence and the Rhineland. Also new to Viking is a 17-day, 12-country ‘Capitals of Eastern Europe’ itinerary. And just try to resist the ‘Tulips and Windmills’ cruise beginning and ending in Amsterdam – especially in spring.
Viking’s newest river cruises explores the prettiest spots of Europe © Viking
Taste Europe via river cruises
Food and wine aficionados will delight not just in the regionally-inspired cuisine on board Uniworld River Cruises through Europe, but also on shore excursions to wineries, farmer’s markets, and village bakeries.
Offering five-star farm-to-table dining with ingredients sourced fresh from every port, Uniworld’s opulent ships are tasteful in more ways than one. Each of the 12 Uniworld ships plying Europe’s enchanting waterways is accurately described as “a luxurious floating boutique hotel” with its own look and feel. The 130-passenger River Duchess is tranquil and elegant while the River Queen brings Art Deco to life throughout the ship in vibrant blue and white interiors.
New for Uniworld in 2023 is an eight-day cruise along the Rhine through Germany, France, and Switzerland, along with a 15-day Grand Central Europe trip down the Danube and Rhine. As on Uniworld’s other river cruises in Europe, this one allows guests to be as active as they like. Bike rides, kayaking tours, and walking tours are all on offer. Or simply relax on deck and watch the scenery glide on by.
Uniworld’s opulent ships are tasteful in more ways than one © Uniworld River Cruises
Take in the sights of Europe
Views are yours to devour on board Avalon Waterways river cruises in Europe with staterooms boasting the widest-opening, wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows in river cruising. Beds directly face the views, so you don’t even have to get up to start sightseeing. Just open your eyes to discover where you’ve arrived next.
Avalon offers a variety of river cruises in Europe. But why not try something different and explore the vineyards of Portugal on an 11-day cruise. Or head down the Danube River to delve into the delights of Bulgaria.
River cruises in Europe with the family
Tauck prides itself on taking guests off the beaten track with exclusive excursions and experience. Like the sound of an after-hours tour of the Vatican without the crowds, or learning the art of making gelato at a 17th-century cooking school? That’s what Tauck is all about.
The kids (or grandkids) needn’t miss out on the fun either. Tauck’s Danube Family Riverboat Cruise promises castle games in Slovakia, marzipan-making in Passau, and bicycling along the Danube River. Tauck’s spacious cabins and personalised service elevate their river cruises in Europe. Its an incredible and jam packed experience no matter what your age.
Tailormade itineraries
Scenic gives guests joining its five-star river cruises in Europe the ability to tailor everything from what they see and do, to the pace at which they do it. Love history? Gastronomy? Getting active out in nature? There are endless options available.
If you prefer to explore a port on your own at a pace, Scenic has just the app! The Scenic Tailormade App offers insightful commentary on 140 locations throughout Europe, getting around by e-bike or on foot. With suggested routes starting and returning to your ship.
Scenic’s 15-day all-inclusive river cruise from Zurich to Amsterdam sails down the Rhine River, taking in the delights of Belgium, Switzerland, Germany, the Netherlands, and France. All 37 excursions are included, the free minibar is restocked daily, and gratuities onboard and onshore are all included.
If you’ve ever been curious about Portugal, Scenic’s 11-day Douro River cruise on board the 48-suite Scenic Azure is worth putting on your shortlist. Beginning and ending at Porto, this journey uncovers the treasures of the Douro, Varosa and Côa Valleys.
River cruises beyond Europe
Europe may be exceptional when it comes to river cruises. But looking a little further afield for your next cruise could prove just as fruitful. A cruise down the Mekong River through Vietnam and Cambodia aboard Scenic Spirit reveals the life and soul, history, and culture of these lands like no land-based journey can. Shore excursions are designed to deepen guests’ understanding of this region and its people. Whether taking part in spiritual customs, feasting on traditional dishes, or exploring villages, temples, and ruins.
Drifting down the Nile is an incredible way to learn the secrets behind ancient Egypt’s tombs, temples, and pyramids. A 13-day Cairo-to-Cairo cruise with Scenic kicks off with drinks and canapés as the sun sets over the Great Pyramids. Just a taste of the treasures to come.
If you’ve dreamed of going to Africa, a safari cruise is the perfect combination of river cruising with land safaris. Family-owned French cruise line CroisiEurope runs intimate 16-passenger tours to South Africa, Botswana, Namibia, and Zimbabwe. A nine-day cruise will take you from Johannesburg to Victoria Falls via Chobé and Matusadona National Parks, with luxury lodging provided on board RV Zimbabwean Dream and in the eight-bungalow Kaza Safari Lodge.
This article originally appeared in volume 43 of Signature Luxury Travel & Style magazine. Subscribe to the latest issue today
