Best River Cruises in Europe for 2025: Routes, Prices & Must-See Destinations

If you’re looking for a scenic, immersive, and relaxing way to explore Europe, river cruises are the ultimate experience. Unlike ocean liners, European river cruises take you through the heart of the continent—past medieval castles, vibrant vineyards, and storybook towns—with intimate access to cultural hotspots.

In this guide, we reveal the 10 best river cruises in Europe for 2025, including top cruise lines, sample itineraries, and planning tips to help you pick your dream route.

🚢 Why Choose a European River Cruise?

River cruising in Europe has surged in popularity thanks to its scenic landscapes, cultural richness, and all-inclusive luxury. Here’s why travelers love it:

Dock directly in city centers – no shuttle buses needed
Smaller ships = fewer crowds, personalized service
Immersive local tours – from castles to wine tastings
Smooth sailing – rivers are calm, ideal for all ages
No packing/unpacking – your hotel travels with you

Whether you’re cruising the Rhine, Danube, or Douro, you’ll discover Europe in a way few travelers do.

🌍 Top 10 River Cruises in Europe for 2025

1. Danube River Cruise (Germany to Hungary)

Route: Nuremberg → Vienna → Bratislava → Budapest
Highlights: Schönbrunn Palace, Wachau Valley, Hungarian Parliament
Best for: First-time cruisers, history lovers
Cruise lines: Viking, Avalon, AmaWaterways
Typical Price: $2,400–$4,200 (7–10 days)

2. Rhine River Cruise (Switzerland to the Netherlands)

Route: Basel → Strasbourg → Cologne → Amsterdam
Highlights: Rhine Gorge castles, Black Forest, Dutch windmills
Best for: Castles, scenic cruising, wine tasting
Cruise lines: Viking, Scenic, Uniworld
Typical Price: $2,800–$5,000 (8 days)

3. Seine River Cruise (Paris to Normandy)

Route: Paris → Rouen → Normandy Beaches
Highlights: Monet’s garden in Giverny, D-Day history
Best for: Art lovers, WWII buffs
Cruise lines: Avalon, Uniworld, Viking
Typical Price: $3,000–$5,500 (7–9 days)

4. Douro River Cruise (Portugal)

Route: Porto → Régua → Pinhão → Barca d’Alva
Highlights: Port wine vineyards, UNESCO villages
Best for: Food & wine, off-the-beaten-path adventure
Cruise lines: AmaWaterways, Scenic, Emerald
Typical Price: $3,200–$5,000 (7 nights)

5. Rhone River Cruise (Southern France)

Route: Lyon → Avignon → Arles → Provence
Highlights: Lavender fields, Roman ruins, French cuisine
Best for: Culinary enthusiasts, romantic getaways
Cruise lines: Viking, Avalon, CroisiEurope
Typical Price: $2,600–$4,800 (8 days)

6. Moselle River Cruise (Germany’s Wine Region)

Route: Koblenz → Bernkastel → Trier
Highlights: Riesling vineyards, fairytale towns
Best for: Wine lovers, photography buffs
Cruise lines: AMA, Tauck, Riviera Travel
Typical Price: $2,900–$4,700 (7 days)

7. Main-Danube Canal Cruise (Trans-European)

Route: Amsterdam → Budapest (via Rhine, Main, and Danube)
Highlights: Multi-country journey through 5–7 nations
Best for: Bucket-list Europe tours
Cruise lines: Viking, Avalon
Typical Price: $5,000–$9,000 (14–21 days)

8. Elbe River Cruise (Germany & Czech Republic)

Route: Berlin → Dresden → Prague
Highlights: Bohemian castles, Cold War history
Best for: Central European culture
Cruise lines: CroisiEurope, Viking
Typical Price: $3,300–$4,900 (9–10 days)

9. Po River Cruise (Italy’s Hidden Gem)

Route: Venice → Polesella → Bologna
Highlights: Italian cuisine, Renaissance art, quiet villages
Best for: Culinary and culture seekers
Cruise lines: Uniworld
Typical Price: $4,000–$6,200 (8 days)

10. Volga River Cruise (Russia)

Route: Moscow → Uglich → Yaroslavl → St. Petersburg
Highlights: Kremlin, Hermitage Museum
Best for: Historical depth, architecture
Cruise lines: Viking (when available)
Typical Price: $4,500–$6,500 (13 days)

Note: Travel restrictions may affect Russian cruises in 2025. Always verify current availability.

🚢 Best European River Cruise Lines for 2025

Cruise Line	Known For	Experience Level
Viking River Cruises	Cultural excursions, value	Best for first-timers
AmaWaterways	Wine cruises, active tours	Best for foodies and fit travelers
Avalon Waterways	Spacious rooms, flexible excursions	Best for couples
Scenic	Luxury, all-inclusive	Best for premium travelers
Uniworld	Boutique ships, artistic decor	Best for style-focused cruisers
Emerald Cruises	Affordable luxury	Best for budget-conscious travelers

💼 What’s Included in a European River Cruise?

Most river cruises offer nearly all-inclusive pricing, which typically includes:

Luxury accommodation with river views
Daily guided excursions and cultural tours
Gourmet onboard meals (many with wine)
Airport transfers and Wi-Fi
Onboard entertainment and enrichment programs

Optional add-ons: pre/post-cruise hotel stays, upgraded excursions, specialty drinks.