Europe River Cruises
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10 best European river cruises
Compiled by
NadineEurope travel expert at TourRadar
- Danube Serenade: Romantic Journey from Vienna to Turnu Magurele (Bucharest), MS Fidelio
- Grand Danube Cruise 2025 Start Giurgiu, End Vilshofen
- Beautiful Blue Danube and Danube Delta (Passau - Passau) (21 destinations)
- From the Blue Danube to the Black Sea (port-to-port cruise)
- Magnificent Europe with Prague Amsterdam → Prague (2025)
- Magnificent Europe with Paris Budapest → Paris (2025)
- From the Black Sea to the Blue Danube (port-to-port cruise)
- European Gems with Prague Amsterdam → Prague (2025)
- Magnificent Europe with Paris Paris → Budapest (2025)
- Passage to Eastern Europe Bucharest to Budapest
Danube Serenade: Romantic Journey from Vienna to Turnu Magurele (Bucharest), MS Fidelio
27 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Relaxing pace, great service.”
Veronica, traveled in May
MS Fidelio, rated 4.5/5 for accommodations, showcases Vienna's Schonbrunn Palace, Budapest's Chain Bridge, and Serbia's Iron Gates gorge. Full-board dining presents regional specialties, while nightly entertainment and French-balconied cabins with satellite TV ensure comfort.
Duration 11 days Destinations Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, Romania Age Range up to 95 year olds Operated in English, German, Spanish Operator Crucemundo From
- NZ$4,356+$265 upfront costs
The luxurious AmaMagna offers unprecedented space while sailing Europe's legendary waterways. The ship glides through Iron Gates gorges, UNESCO-listed Wachau Valley, and historic capitals. Passengers indulge in four distinct restaurants, a sun-deck pool, and unique Water Sports Platform during this 15-day adventure.
Duration 15 days Destinations Romania, Bulgaria, Croatia, Austria, Hungary, Slovakia, Serbia, Czech Republic, Germany Age Range up to 90 year olds Operator AmaWaterways From
- NZ$11,630+$798 upfront costs
Premium Amadeus vessels transport guests through Europe with panoramic cabins and gourmet dining. The route winds through Iron Gates Gorge, UNESCO Danube Delta, and riverside monasteries. Guided tours showcase Vienna's Imperial district and Budapest's historic center across 7 countries.
Duration 16 days Destinations Germany, Austria, Hungary, Serbia, Bulgaria, Romania, Slovakia Age Range up to 99 year olds Operated in English, German Operator Lueftner Cruises From
- NZ$7,521
From the Blue Danube to the Black Sea (port-to-port cruise)
2 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Food excellent. Staff were awesome.”
David, traveled in April
MS L'Europe sails from Vienna's Schönbrunn Palace to Romania's Black Sea coast. The route includes the Iron Gates gorge, Hungarian plains, and traditional entertainment in Belgrade while cruising in comfort.
Duration 12 days Destinations Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Serbia, Bulgaria, Romania Age Range up to 99 year olds Operator CroisiEurope River Cruises From
- NZ$4,681
APT's luxury vessels link Amsterdam's canals to Budapest's riverfront. The journey features exclusive access to Namedy Castle, private concerts at Vienna's City Palace, and passage through the UNESCO-listed Wachau Valley.
Duration 18 days Destinations Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Czech Republic Age Range up to 99 year olds Operator APT From
- NZ$12,205+$1,790 upfront costs
APT luxury ships traverse three major European rivers, stopping at UNESCO sites and historic ports. The voyage features private Vienna City Palace concerts, Amsterdam's canals, and gourmet dining with 46 included meals.
Duration 18 days Destinations Hungary, Austria, Germany, Netherlands, Belgium, France Age Range up to 99 year olds Operator APT From
- NZ$13,305
From the Black Sea to the Blue Danube (port-to-port cruise)
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“The food was excellent. We enjoyed our trip and would use Croisi again.”
Karyn, traveled in May
MS L'Europe or MS Vivaldi connect 8 countries with panoramic dining rooms and lounges. The Danube-Black Sea Canal, dramatic Iron Gates passage, and historic capitals highlight the route from Romania to Austria, complemented by French cuisine, included drinks, and entertainment.
Duration 12 days Destinations Romania, Bulgaria, Serbia, Hungary, Slovakia, Austria Age Range up to 99 year olds Operator CroisiEurope River Cruises From
- NZ$4,681
The Travelmarvel Polaris, with multiple viewing decks, sails Europe's grand waterways. The ship crosses the Continental Divide via 16 locks, passes through the scenic Rhine Gorge, and glides along the Wachau Valley. Wine accompanies meals while passing historic riverside castles.
Duration 18 days Destinations Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary Age Range up to 99 year olds Operator Travel Marvel From
- NZ$9,655
Luxury spans 15 days from Amsterdam to Budapest aboard APT ships across three rivers, visiting UNESCO sites and historic ports. Private events include Namedy Castle reception and Vienna's City Palace concert, complemented by 46 gourmet meals.
Duration 18 days Destinations France, Belgium, Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Hungary Age Range up to 99 year olds Operator APT From
- NZ$11,905
Passage to Eastern Europe Bucharest to Budapest
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“Food on board was good standard. Staffs ... especially at dinning was excellent !!!”
Loo, traveled in May
Viking's premium ships provide river-view accommodations while sailing through Iron Gate's limestone cliffs. The route includes historic ports from Vidin to Kalocsa, complemented by regional wines and UNESCO site excursions.
Duration 11 days Destinations Romania, Bulgaria, Serbia, Croatia, Hungary Age Range 18 to 99 year olds Operator Viking Cruises From
- NZ$8,411
European River Cruises Reviews
- Danube Serenade: Romantic Journey from Vienna to Turnu Magurele (Bucharest), MS Fidelio
İts perfect ..i really enjoyed it
- From the Blue Danube to the Black Sea (port-to-port cruise)
Crosieurope had nice food, plenty of beer and wine, very clean boat - both inside and out. Staff were very nice and helpful, always cleaning windows, carpet, etc. The administration staff were a bit at times disorganised. Sometimes they would forget to give message in English after they delivered Message in French.
- Danube Serenade: Romantic Journey from Turnu Magurele (Bucharest) to Vienna, MS Fidelio
The overall tour and its organization was excellent. The package included tours and the optional tours were well organized and the tour guides were well informed and covered the most important aspects of each city that we visited given the time frame that the ship was docked. It was unfortunate that the tour group was unable to embark in Romania due to the recent floods and the likelihood of the Danube flooding around Turnu Magurele, necessitating the tour organizers transferring the group via bus to Port Vidin, Bulgaria to board the ship. The crew when approached were diligent, responsive and attentive to the guests requests and needs. The ship was kept in a hygienically clean condition and the food not only varied and generous but of a very high standard. All in all, I loved this cruise experience.
What our customers ask about Europe River Cruises
What's the difference between Rhine and Danube river cruise itineraries?
The Rhine and Danube offer distinct sailing experiences through Europe's heartland. Rhine voyages navigate through western Europe crossing Germany Switzerland France and the Netherlands. Passengers explore Amsterdam's water-laced streets Cologne's towering cathedral and the storied Rhine Gorge. Danube journeys wind through central and eastern Europe including Austria Hungary Slovakia and sometimes extend to Bulgaria and Romania. The route connects major capitals like Vienna Budapest and Bratislava. As one TourRadar traveler noted: "On this Danube cruise we have seen 7 different countries from impressive capitals like Vienna and Budapest to charming small towns. Highly recommended."
What types of cabin options are available on European river cruise ships?
Modern river vessels offer accommodations that range from practical to luxurious. Ships like AmaWaterways' AmaMagna feature spacious suites (300-710 sq ft) with dedicated living spaces and wall-to-wall windows. Standard staterooms (160-235 sq ft) come equipped with French or twin balconies while lower deck rooms have fixed windows. Upper Violin Deck cabins provide premium views and Piano Deck rooms offer budget-friendly options. A TourRadar traveler shared: "Our Panorama Suite on the Violin Deck of the AmaLea had twin balconies and floor-to-ceiling windows - the views of passing castles and villages were incredible."
Which European river cruise lines offer the best value for money?
The value spectrum spans from comfortable to ultra-luxury experiences. Crucemundo's fleet including the MS Crucevita offers 8-day voyages starting at USD 1808 with comprehensive inclusions. Premium operators like AmaWaterways set sail on vessels such as AmaMagna with rates beginning at USD 4298. According to a TourRadar traveler: "Great value and well organised. The meals were excellent and the crew was wonderful - worth every single cent."
What are the best times of year to take a Europe river cruise?
European river cruise season peaks from April through October. Spring brings Amsterdam's tulip displays and pleasant temperatures in Vienna and Budapest. Summer allows for extended daylight hours perfect for exploring landmarks like Melk Abbey and Rothenburg. Fall cruises draw praise for moderate weather and colorful landscapes particularly along the Danube. One A-ROSA FLORA passenger noted: "The autumn colors along the river were spectacular and the weather was perfect for exploring ports."
How accessible are European river cruise ships for passengers with mobility issues?
Contemporary vessels prioritize accessibility through thoughtful design. Ships like AmaMagna and MS Crucevita incorporate elevators between main decks accessible public spaces and modified cabins. The MS Crucevita features a four-person elevator connecting Main and Promenade Decks plus Sun Deck chairlift access. A TourRadar traveler observed: "The ship's layout was very accessible with good elevator service between decks though some ports required walking on uneven surfaces."
What's included in the dining experience on European river cruises?
Dining programs blend regional cuisines with international offerings. Ships typically feature main restaurants for three daily meals plus specialty venues like AmaWaterways' Chef's Table. Menus showcase local dishes accompanied by regional wines beer and soft drinks during lunch and dinner. Extra touches include afternoon tea tapas stations and formal Captain's Dinners. One Uniworld guest reported: "The food was exceptional - we enjoyed wine-paired dinners featuring local specialties like Wiener Schnitzel in Austria and goulash in Hungary."
How does transportation work between cruise ports and city centers?
Ships often dock steps from city centers providing direct access to local attractions. In Budapest vessels moor near the Chain Bridge while Vienna stops utilize the Reichsbrücke with convenient tram connections downtown. When docked further out complimentary shuttles bridge the gap. Organized excursions include transportation. As shared by a TourRadar traveler: "The ship's docking locations were incredibly convenient - we could walk right into the heart of most cities within minutes."