Mediterranean River Cruises
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10 best river cruises through Mediterranean
Compiled by
MelissaMediterranean travel expert at TourRadar
- Islands of the Mediterranean: Spain to Malta
- Adriatic Jewels Venice → Athens (2026)
- Mediterranean Wonders from Malta to Ancient Greece (port-to-port cruise)
- The Treasures of the Adriatic: Croatia, Greece, Albania and Montenegro (port-to-port cruise)
- Mediterranean rivieras
- Lisbon with Douro Discovery Lisbon to Porto (2025)
- Delightful Douro with Lisbon
- Unforgettable Douro 2026|2027
- Douro Delights with Lisbon and Madrid Lisbon → Madrid (2026)
- Adriatic discovery: Venice, Istria & the Croatian archipelago
The luxurious Emerald Sakara glides through the Mediterranean, showcasing Mahón's historic harbor, Bonifacio's limestone cliffs, and Porto Cervo's prestigious marina. Passengers can admire Syracuse's ancient ruins and Valletta's UNESCO heritage sites from elegant accommodations.
Duration 11 days Destinations Spain, France, Italy, Malta Age Range Ages 12+ Operator Emerald Cruises From $27,101
50% Off- NZ$13,534You save $13,568
Duration 8 days Destinations Italy, Croatia, Montenegro, Greece Age Range Ages 12+ Operator Travel Marvel From
50% Off- NZ$6,495+$800 upfront costs
The elegant MS La Belle de L'Adriatique sails from Valletta's historic port to Athens. Guests savor panoramic views of Kefalonia and Ithaca from the sun deck, French cuisine in the restaurant, and comfortable cabin options across four decks. All drinks and excursions included in the fare of around $2,500.
Duration 8 days Destinations Malta, Greece, Spain, Israel Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator CroisiEurope River Cruises From
50% Off- NZ$5,067
MS La Belle de L'Adriatique sails from Dubrovnik through Corfu's waters, Albania's historic ports, and Montenegro's stunning Bay of Kotor. Premium amenities, French cuisine, and included drinks enhance visits to 9 distinct Mediterranean harbors.
Duration 8 days Destinations Croatia, Greece, Albania, Montenegro Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator CroisiEurope River Cruises From
50% Off- NZ$4,148
The Emerald Azzurra takes guests from Civitavecchia to Lisbon through azure waters. Visit Cartagena's Roman Theatre, Palma's Cathedral of Santa Maria, and Tangier's historic Kasbah while enjoying luxury suite accommodation with infinity pool access and gourmet dining.
Duration 12 days Destinations Italy, France, Spain, Morocco, Portugal Age Range Ages 12+ Operator Emerald Cruises From $29,813
50% Off- NZ$14,813You save $15,000
The MS Estrela winds through Douro Valley's vineyards and historic ports. Passengers enjoy sunset sailings, traditional Portuguese entertainment, and guided tours of riverside towns and wine cellars.
Duration 11 days Destinations Lisbon, Vila Nova da Gaia, Peso da Regua, Lamego, Pinhao, Vega de Terron, Salamanca, Barca de Alva, Mateus, Entre-os-RiosSee all destinations Age Range Ages 8+ Operator APT From
50% Off- NZ$7,684+$739 upfront costs
Scenic Azure stops at Lisbon's Jerónimos Monastery and Porto's wine cellars. The itinerary includes coastal fortifications, riverside quintas, and classical music at São Francisco Church with premium dining.
Duration 11 days Destinations Lisbon, Sintra, Coimbra, Porto, Provesende, Pocinho, Lamego, Pinhao, Mateus Age Range Ages 12+ Operator Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours From $9,570
10% Off- NZ$8,570You save $1,000
Duration 11 days Destinations Porto, Entre-os-Rios, Peso da Regua, Vega de Terron, Pocinho, Pinhao Age Range Ages 12+ Operator Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours From $10,445
29% Off- NZ$7,445You save $3,000
Mediterranean river cruise aboard MS Estrela, featuring port wine tastings in Porto, visits to family-owned quintas, and scenic sailing through the Douro Valley. Enjoy traditional lunches at Quinta da Pacheca and evening illuminations cruising.
Duration 14 days Destinations Lisbon, Sintra, Coimbra, Porto, Entre-os-Rios, Peso da Regua, Pinhao, Barca de Alva, Vega de Terron, SalamancaSee all destinations Age Range Ages 8+ Operator APT From
29% Off- NZ$14,115+$980 upfront costs
The yacht-like Emerald Kaia provides exclusive passage past Venice's St. Mark's Square, Piran's gothic architecture, and Mali Lošinj's natural harbor. Seven nights of luxury await with premium dining and complimentary beverages.
Duration 8 days Destinations Italy, Slovenia, Norway, Croatia Age Range Ages 12+ Operator Emerald Cruises From $21,678
50% Off- NZ$10,830You save $10,847
What people love about River Cruise Tours in Mediterranean
Very scenic cruise on the Douro and enjoyable excursions. Mostly German speaking guests but English guides and staff onboard so no problems with communications. Food was amazing, staff went above and beyond to make the trip stress free. Would definitely do another ARosa cruise.
Douro Experience 2025
What our customers ask about Mediterranean River Cruises
What are the most popular Mediterranean river cruise routes and destinations?
Mediterranean river cruises follow three main waterways: the Douro River connecting Portugal and Spain the Po River flowing through Northern Italy and the Guadalquivir River in Southern Spain. Ships dock at key cities like Porto Lisbon Venice Burano and Seville. The routes highlight distinct regional characteristics. The Douro Valley stands out for its steep vineyard-lined banks while Venice-based cruises navigate the city's network of waterways and lagoon islands. A TourRadar traveler shares: "The scenery along the river was breathtaking with endless vineyards cascading down the hillsides and charming quintas dotting the landscape."
Which major Mediterranean ports do river cruises typically visit?
The port roster includes major destinations like Barcelona Naples Valletta and Porto. Emerald Cruises' "Islands of the Mediterranean" route stops at Mahón in Menorca Bonifacio in Corsica Porto Cervo in Sardinia and Syracuse in Sicily. Uniworld's Venice program explores the Venetian Lagoon with visits to Chioggia Burano and Mazzorbo. A TourRadar traveler notes: "Each port offered something unique - from Valletta's historic grandeur to Porto Cervo's modern luxury."
What are the best times of year to take a Mediterranean river cruise?
The best sailing window spans April through October with July and August marking peak season. Tours like Emerald Cruises' Mediterranean Rivieras operate during these months when weather conditions are ideal for exploring coastal cities like Porto Cervo Trapani and Syracuse. Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) bring milder temperatures and smaller crowds at popular stops like Barcelona and Valletta. A TourRadar traveler shares: "Beautiful scenery and perfect weather made our September cruise absolutely magical."
What types of cabins are available on Mediterranean river cruise ships?
Ships offer various room categories from standard staterooms to premium suites. The S.S. São Gabriel features five options: Grand Suites regular Suites French Balcony cabins Deluxe Staterooms and Classic Staterooms. Standard amenities include hotel-style beds private bathrooms panoramic windows or French balconies climate control and WiFi. Select vessels like the Emerald Radiance feature Owner's Suites with wraparound terraces. A TourRadar reviewer notes: "Our French Balcony cabin on the S.S. La Venezia was beautifully appointed with plenty of storage and a wonderful view of the passing scenery."
What is the typical group size on a Mediterranean river cruise?
River cruise vessels typically carry between 100-200 passengers creating a more personal atmosphere than ocean liners. Emerald Cruises' luxury yachts accommodate 100 guests with 72 crew members while CroisiEurope's MS La Belle de L'Adriatique welcomes 198 passengers. A TourRadar traveler reports: "With only 100 passengers we quickly got to know our fellow travelers and received excellent personal attention from the crew."
How long are typical Mediterranean river cruises?
Most itineraries run 7 to 11 days though some extended voyages combining multiple regions stretch to 22 days. Uniworld's Portugal and Douro River cruise spans 11 days while CroisiEurope's Andalusia journey takes 8 days. Some lines like Emerald Cruises blend river cruising with land excursions offering extended trips such as their 22-day Mediterranean journey from Athens to Lisbon. TourRadar travelers note: "The 8-day format was perfect - enough time to explore each destination thoroughly without feeling rushed."