River Cruises
River Cruises That Let You Drift Through the World in Style
There’s something a little magical about river cruises. You unpack once, and suddenly the world comes to you. One charming town, vineyard, castle, or historic city at a time. No long travel days, no frantic schedules. Just smooth sailing, great food, and a front-row seat to some of the world’s most iconic rivers.
Whether it’s the romantic Rhine, the dreamy Danube, or the sun-soaked rivers of Portugal and France, river cruises are all about slowing down and soaking it all in.
With options from the following trusted names, there’s a river cruise for every kind of traveller:
Avalon waterways River Cruises
Current Offer: Save $10,600 per couple off select 2026 Avalon Waterways Europe cruises on bookings made before November 9, 2025. Terms and Conditions Apply.
Spectacular Switzerland with Romantic Rhine: Zürich to Amsterdam
16 Days & 4 Countries
From $12,875 per person
This journey combines a Globus escorted tour of Switzerland with a Rhine River cruise through France, Germany, and Holland. Discover Zürich, Geneva, Interlaken, and Lucerne, with highlights like Gruyères Castle, a chocolate tasting in Broc, and a ride to Jungfraujoch—the “Top of Europe.” Then embark from Basel, sailing past the Black Forest, Strasbourg, and Heidelberg, through the castle-lined Rhine Gorge, and ending among Amsterdam’s iconic canals.
Terms and conditions apply.
Bonjour Bordeaux: Bordeaux roundtrip
8 Days & 1 Country
Sail the Garonne and Dordogne rivers on a journey through France’s famed wine country. Begin in Bordeaux, capital of Nouvelle-Aquitaine, and explore regal castles, charming châteaux, and romantic wine cellars. Choose from active adventures, cultural discoveries, or classic tours as you uncover the beauty of Southwest France. From panoramic drives and vineyard cycling to seaside Arcachon, every moment celebrates the art of living well.
magnificent Europe: Amsterdam to Budapest
15 Days & 4 Countries
Travel from Amsterdam to Budapest on a 15-day journey through the heart of Europe. Cruise Amsterdam’s canals, explore Cologne’s Gothic treasures, and sail the dramatic Rhine Gorge to the wine town of Rüdesheim. Discover Würzburg, Bamberg, and Nuremberg before crossing the Main-Danube Canal. Visit Melk’s Benedictine Abbey, glide through the Wachau Valley, and enjoy the cultural capitals of Vienna and Budapest on this unforgettable voyage.
Danube Dreams: Budapest to Vilshofen
8 Days & 4 Countries
Sail the Danube through Hungary, Slovakia, Austria, and Germany on a journey of grand capitals and charming towns. Begin in Budapest with its iconic Parliament, stroll Bratislava’s Old Town, and admire Vienna’s imperial palaces. Cruise the Wachau Valley to Dürnstein and Melk Abbey, explore Linz’s medieval Hauptplatz, and end in Passau, where three rivers meet beneath the towers of St. Stephen’s Cathedral.
Romantic Rhine: Amsterdam to Basel
8 Days & 4 Countries
Cruise the legendary Rhine through Holland, Germany, France, and Switzerland. Begin in Amsterdam with a canal cruise along its graceful grachten, then explore Cologne’s Gothic cathedral and Old Town. Sail the castle-lined Rhine Gorge to Rüdesheim and Mainz, with options to visit Heidelberg’s red-walled castle. Discover Strasbourg’s cathedral and charming La Petite France, and end in Breisach, gateway to the Black Forest’s natural beauty.
Fascinating Vietnam, Cambodia & the Mekong River: Siem Reap to Ho Chi Minh City
13 Days & 2 Countries
Immerse yourself in Southeast Asia’s culture on a journey along the Mekong. Explore Cambodia’s Angkor temples in Siem Reap, including Angkor Wat and Bayon, and enjoy a traditional Apsara dance. Sail to Phnom Penh for the Royal Palace and Silver Pagoda, visit riverside villages and markets, and witness local traditions from sampan making to rice candy. Conclude in Ho Chi Minh City, with its mix of colonial landmarks and modern energy, plus a visit to the historic Cu Chi Tunnels.
The river cruises above are just a glimpse of Avalon Waterway's River Cruises most popular journeys. If you’d like to discover more river cruises on offer, reach out below, I’d be happy to guide you to the perfect itinerary.
viking River Cruises
Grand european tour: Budapest to amsterdam
15 Days, 12 Tours & 4 Countries
Travel through the heart of Europe on a 15-day voyage from Amsterdam to Budapest. Admire Rhine Valley vistas from a 900-year-old castle, sample Wachau Valley wines, and learn the Viennese waltz. Visit Melk’s Benedictine Abbey, reflect on Nuremberg’s WWII history, and explore charming capitals from Holland’s windmill-dotted waterways to Hungary’s stunning landscapes, with engaging encounters at every bend.
Rhine Getaway: basel to amsterdam
8 Days, 6 Tours & 4 Countries
Journey along one of Europe’s best-loved rivers on this eight-day cruise from Basel to Amsterdam. Explore turreted fortresses, grand cathedrals and medieval towns as you sail through the UNESCO-listed Middle Rhine. Taste the region’s renowned white wines, savour Alsace’s culinary traditions, and discover vibrant cities including Cologne and Strasbourg, before ending in the charm of the Dutch capital.
pharaohs & pyramids: roundtrip cairo, egypt
12 Days, 11 Tours & 1 Country
Discover Egypt, ancient and modern, on a 12-day cruisetour along the Nile. Marvel at the pyramids from astride a camel, stand among the soaring pillars of Karnak, and visit Queen Nefertari’s tomb in the Valley of the Queens. Sail by traditional felucca, wander Aswan’s spice markets, and uncover Egypt’s secrets with the insight of expert Egyptologists aboard Viking’s modern Nile ships.
cities of light: paris to prague
12 Days, 10 Tours & 3 Countries
Sail Europe’s most iconic rivers on a 12-day journey from Paris to Prague. Cruise the Main past quaint villages, the castle-studded Rhine, and the Moselle with its famed vineyards. Enjoy Privileged Access to Prague’s Lobkowicz Palace, explore Nuremberg’s Imperial Castle and Rally Grounds, and taste world-renowned Moselle Rieslings. From French charm to Czech tradition, this voyage celebrates Europe’s most luminous ports.
paris & the heart of normandy
8 Days, 6 Tours & 1 Country
Enjoy Paris and Norman treasures on an eight-day round trip from the City of Light. Dock in the heart of Paris with views of the Eiffel Tower, walk the historic Normandy beaches, and admire Rouen’s striking Gothic architecture. Visit Monet’s house and gardens in Giverny and savour the art, food and traditions that define France’s most alluring urban and pastoral landscapes.
Danube Waltz: budapest to passau
8 Days, 6 Tours & 4 Countries
Sail the Danube on an eight-day journey through Central Europe’s cultural heart. Bathe in Budapest’s thermal waters, learn to waltz in Vienna, and taste Austro-Hungarian cuisine along the way. Discover the Wachau Valley’s vineyard-lined beauty, explore Bratislava and Passau, and enjoy a special visit to Göttweig Abbey while gliding past spectacular river scenery.
The river cruises above are just a glimpse of Viking’s most popular journeys. If you’d like to discover more river cruises on offer, reach out below, I’d be happy to guide you to the perfect itinerary.
Ama waterways River Cruises
best of the danube: Roundtrip budapest
7 Nights & 3 Countries
Sail roundtrip from Budapest on an itinerary handpicked by AmaWaterways’ Co-Founder Rudi Schreiner. Cruise through the UNESCO-listed Wachau Valley, visit grand capitals including Bratislava and Vienna, and admire treasures like Melk’s golden abbey and Schönbrunn Palace. Stroll Salzburg’s streets, birthplace of Mozart and backdrop to The Sound of Music, while enjoying the beauty and history that define the Danube.
magnificent Europe: Amsterdam to Budapest
14 Nights & 5 Countries
Journey through five countries on an all-encompassing voyage along the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers. Explore Cologne’s Gothic cathedral, the Würzburg Residenz, and the Old Towns of Bamberg and Regensburg, all UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Visit Melk Abbey, sample German and Austrian Rieslings, savour European specialties, and enjoy hiking or biking through scenic landscapes in Passau and Vienna.
Melodies of the Danube: Budapest to Vilshofen
7 Nights & 4 Countries
Sail through the heart of Old-World Europe on a journey rich in music, art and timeless beauty. Explore the grand capitals of Budapest, Bratislava and Vienna, wander Salzburg and the Austrian Lake District, and admire the landscapes of the Strudengau Valley. From imperial architecture to cultural treasures, every stop reveals why the Danube has inspired generations.
Enchanting Rhine: Basel to Amsterdam
7 Nights & 4 Countries
Discover the magic of the Rhine on a voyage through storybook towns and grand cities. Explore Heidelberg, where Mark Twain found inspiration, and savour timeless traditions from German beers to Rüdesheimer coffee. Cruise past the UNESCO-listed Rhine Gorge, where 40 castles crown the riverbanks, and enjoy front-row views of one of Europe’s most enchanting landscapes.
Enticing Douro: Roundtrip Porto
7 Nights & 2 Countries
Sail through Portugal’s Douro Valley, the world’s oldest demarcated wine region. Journey roundtrip from Porto, the “City of Bridges,” to vineyard-clad hillsides and timeless villages. Visit Régua, the heart of the valley, and explore Salamanca, the UNESCO-designated “Golden City.” Taste renowned wines and experience the unspoiled beauty of this captivating region.
Riches of the Mekong: Siem Reap to Ho Chi Minh City
7 Nights & 2 Countries
Cruise through Vietnam and Cambodia on a journey into timeless traditions and vibrant culture. Receive a Buddhist blessing in a rural monastery, explore colourful markets and villages, and uncover Phnom Penh’s Royal Palace and museums. Ride by oxcart, tuk tuk and trishaw, meet skilled artisans, and experience daily life along the Mekong on this unforgettable voyage.
The river cruises above are just a glimpse of Ama Waterway's most popular journeys. If you’d like to discover more river cruises on offer, reach out below, I’d be happy to guide you to the perfect itinerary.
emerald cruises
splendours of europe: Budapest to Amsterdam
15 Days & 5 Countries
Sail for 15 days through the heart of Europe on a classic journey along the Rhine, Main, and Danube rivers. Begin in Budapest with a traditional folklore performance before cruising through the Wachau Valley and Rhine Gorge en route to Amsterdam. Explore cultural capitals like Vienna and Cologne, visit Melk Abbey, wander medieval towns, and enjoy unique EmeraldPLUS experiences such as coffee with a Slovakian family, a Bavarian band on board, and cycling tours along the Danube.
jewels of the rhine: Amsterdam to Zurich
8 Days & 3 Countries
Sail from the Netherlands through Germany, France, and Switzerland on this classic Rhine voyage. Begin in Alkmaar, famed for its cheese-making traditions, and see the iconic Dutch windmills before heading to Düsseldorf and Cologne’s Gothic cathedral. Discover Koblenz and cruise past castle-studded landscapes in the UNESCO-listed Rhine Gorge. Explore Heidelberg, Strasbourg, and Freiburg in the Black Forest, with EmeraldPLUS experiences including a private concert on the Rhine and regional tastings.
secrets of the douro: Porto roundtrip
8 Days & 1 Country
Cruise through Portugal’s sun-drenched Douro Valley, where terraced vineyards and charming villages line the riverbanks. Begin in Porto, the vibrant “City of Bridges,” then explore Salamanca’s golden streets, taste fine wines at historic quintas, and wander the sanctuary at Lamego. Enjoy unique EmeraldPLUS experiences from a port cocktail lesson to a kayak in Pinhão, revealing the Douro’s rich culture and traditions from new perspectives.
sensations of lyon & provence: lyon to nice
8 Days & 1 Country
Sail the Rhône and Saône through the sun-soaked south of France, where Roman ruins, medieval towns, and vineyard-clad hillsides await. Discover Lyon, the nation’s gastronomic heart, enjoy Beaujolais tastings, and explore Avignon, Arles, and Viviers. Unique EmeraldPLUS experiences include a Provençal dinner hosted by chef Fabien Morreale, a classical concert in Avignon, and active excursions from vineyard hikes to canoeing on the Rhône.
Barcelona & Secrets of the Douro: barcelona to porto
11 Days & 2 Countries
Combine a Douro River cruise with a stay in vibrant Barcelona for the perfect blend of culture and relaxation. Begin in Porto, sailing past vineyard terraces and historic villages to Salamanca, Lamego, and Pinhão, where kayaking and wine tastings await. Then spend three nights in Barcelona, exploring its famous boulevards, architecture, and Mediterranean flair. Along the way, enjoy EmeraldPLUS experiences from a port cocktail lesson to a rural lunch at a quinta, showcasing the best of Portugal and Spain.
wonders of cambodia, vietnam & the mekong: Siem Reap to Ho Chi Minh City
13 Days & 2 Countries
Sail the mighty Mekong aboard Emerald Harmony and uncover a rich tapestry of history and culture. Begin in Siem Reap with the sunrise over Angkor Wat, Angkor Thom, and Ta Prohm, then journey through Phnom Penh’s palaces and markets. Visit a traditional Cao Dai temple in Tan Chau before concluding with a two-night stay in vibrant Ho Chi Minh City. Along the way, enjoy EmeraldPLUS cultural encounters and immersive experiences showcasing the spirit of Southeast Asia.
The river cruises above are just a glimpse of Emerald Cruises River Cruises most popular journeys. If you’d like to discover more river cruises on offer, reach out below, I’d be happy to guide you to the perfect itinerary.
scenic river cruises
jewels of Europe with london: Budapest to London
18 Days & 7 Countries
Sail the Rhine, Main, and Danube on a classic 15-day journey through Europe before ending with a four-night stay in London. Cruise Amsterdam’s canals, pass the castles of the Rhine Gorge, and explore Nuremberg’s WWII sites. Visit Budapest’s vibrant Central Market and enjoy authentic encounters with locals along the way. Then cross the Channel to discover London’s iconic landmarks, indulge in afternoon tea, or explore royal history in one of the world’s greatest capitals.
Eastern Europe & Balkans Unveiled: Budapest to Bucharest
9 Days & 5 Countries
Sail the Danube from Budapest to Romania’s Black Sea, uncovering the hidden gems of Eastern Europe. Explore Belgrade’s vibrant streets, Osijek’s Baroque charm, and the dramatic cliffs of the Iron Gates. Visit ancient towns that feel untouched by time and discover UNESCO treasures like the Thracian Tomb of Sveshtari. With Scenic Enrich moments, cultural encounters, and time to relax in luxurious surrounds, this journey reveals the beauty and traditions of five remarkable countries.
Castles & Vineyards of the Rhine & Moselle: Mainz to Basel
8 Days & 3 Countries
Cruise the Rhine and Moselle through vineyard-clad valleys, medieval towns, and fairytale castles. Explore Rüdesheim and Cochem, stroll the ancient streets of Trier, and uncover the spa traditions of Baden-Baden and the Black Forest. Taste local wines, hike to hilltop castles, or cycle through charming villages, before enjoying a private classical concert in the World Heritage-listed Liebfrauenkirche. With Scenic’s 5-star luxury and Freechoice experiences, this journey blends relaxation with discovery at every turn.
Treasures of the Mekong: Siem Reap to Ho Chi Minh City
13 Days & 2 Countries
Uncover the spirit of Southeast Asia on a journey from Cambodia’s Siem Reap to Vietnam’s Ho Chi Minh City. Watch the sunrise at Angkor Wat, enjoy a tuk tuk ride along Phnom Penh’s waterfront, and visit the Royal Palace before crossing into Vietnam. Cruise by sampan to explore Tan Chau and Sa Dec, discover vibrant markets, and sample Saigon’s street food on a Vespa night tour. With Scenic’s exclusive Enrich experiences, sundowners, and 5-star luxury, the Mekong reveals its timeless beauty and charm.
The river cruises above are just a glimpse of Scenic River Cruises most popular journeys. If you’d like to discover more river cruises on offer, reach out below, I’d be happy to guide you to the perfect itinerary.