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Journey into the heart of Europe, Asia, Egypt, the Upper and Lower Mississippi, and beyond on a culturally immersive scenic cruise. Whether you yearn to see the castle-lined Rhine, romantic Danube, historic Seine or vineyard-laced Douro, your river cruise with Viking begins here.

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Traveling by river, beyond the reach of roadways, you will discover the true nature of fascinating lands and the people who call them home.You will travel with ease, unpacking just once and enjoying the ever-changing scenery along the banks as you are gently carried on board an elegant, intimate ship to your next destination.Here is just a small sample of where a Viking river cruise will take you:

  • Vienna’s elegant boulevards and Hapsburg treasures
  • Budapest’s historic Castle District
  • The lush vineyards of France
  • Storybook villages and hilltop castles of Germany
  • The charming windmills of The Netherlands
  • Germany’s spectacular Saxon Switzerland region
  • Portugal’s rolling vineyards of the Douro Valley
  • Ancient temples along Egypt’s timeless Nile River
  • Cambodia’s sprawling Angkor Wat complex
  • Vietnam’s lush and fertile Mekong Delta
  • The American South’s historic cities—from New Orleans to Memphis
  • America’s heartland—from bustling St. Louis to distinctive St. Paul

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Why First-Time Cruisers Should Choose a River Voyage, According to Travel Specialists

By Jessica Puckett

Why a River Cruise Makes a Perfect FirstEver Voyage

All products featured on Condé Nast Traveler are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Booking your first cruise can feel like a big step: There are dress codes and other unspoken etiquette rules to consider, plus figuring out how to travel at a different pace. It can feel overwhelming for a newbie.

That's why the smaller, slower pace of a river cruise is a great option for embarking on your first-ever voyage. “It is more intimate, great for people prone to motion sickness, and they are all inclusive,” says Judith Wolf , a travel consultant and cruise expert at Frosch. “The profile of a river cruiser is usually an upscale, sophisticated traveler. They are interested in the countries they are visiting, and their history.”

Here’s what to know about booking your first river cruise, plus practical advice on finding the perfect itinerary, choosing the right stateroom, and what to pack .

River cruise ships are smaller 

The first thing cruisers will notice stepping onto a river ship is that the atmosphere is exclusive and boutique : There are few passengers, a sense of calm, and most public areas and decks are designed to showcase the scenery drifting by on the riverbanks.

“The one drawback is that the cabins are much smaller than an ocean ship,” says Wolf. “However, you will not be spending much time in your cabin because each day on a river cruise is a day in port and the ship sails in the evening.” The majority of the time on a river cruise is spent on guided tours and excursions or simply enjoying the charming town where you’re docked for the day. 

A large stateroom is often not top priority. “I advise my clients to secure the least expensive cabin they will be comfortable in and use the money saved to spend time on either end [on a land program] since river cruise itineraries start and end in some of the most interesting cities in the world,” says Linda Allen-Speer , who operates Cruises by Linda. 

Downsizing could be a smart idea—even if it means you end up with a stateroom that doesn’t have a balcony or outdoor space to enjoy the views. “Balconies aren’t a necessity because you can always relax on the upper deck and see the beautiful scenery,” says Wolf.

European river cruises bring travelers to the heart of the region's charming villages.

European river cruises bring travelers to the heart of the region's charming villages.

River cruise ports are in prime locations 

On ocean cruises, sometimes the ports are on the outskirts of a city in order to accommodate the larger ships, which means long walks or shuttle rides to get into the heart of town. That's usually not the case for river voyages . “Many of the ports are in the center of the city, and it is easy to get off and go for a stroll,” Wolf says. Think of stepping off the ship and being in the middle of quaint towns in rural Europe, bustling cities in Vietnam, or historic villages in Egypt.  

If you'd rather wander around a destination instead of joining a planned excursion, crew on river ships provide plenty of options. “If you like to bike most ships carry bicycles that are available for all the guests,” Wolf notes. Grab one and cycle past tulip fields in Holland, to a French café overlooking the Rhône, or to Buddhist temples in Phnom Penh. 

Itineraries are just the right length

While there are river cruises that can last for several weeks or even months —by connecting through several rivers in one particular region—most river voyages usually range from eight to 15 days. That's a good duration for first timers to have an in-depth experience without feeling overwhelmed.

Most voyages also have an option to add a couple days on land to leisurely explore the first port. “They have unique itineraries with a few days in a city—not accessible by a river—before you board the ship,” says Wolf. 

Even though these land extension packages are also available after the cruise, Allen-Speer says it's best to do them before embarking on the ship—just in case of air travel complications. Snags like crew strikes, cancellations, and delays “are not as stressful if you have some wiggle room in your itinerary,” she adds. 

It's also worth noting that many river cruise lines have specialty itineraries that cater to specific interests, like history, wine, or culture. AmaWaterways, for example, has new river cruises focusing on Black history and culture in France, while Uniworld offers European river cruises that center on Jewish heritage . 

What to pack for a river cruise

Some of what you pack will depend on your destination, but travelers should keep in mind that river cruise dress codes tend to be much more casual than some of the larger ocean-going ships. “You won’t need any formal or cocktail attire,” Wolf says. “Comfortable, casual clothes with maybe a nice packable dress, blouse, and skirt or shirt and slacks with one jacket, no tie.” 

Other essentials to pack for a warm-weather river cruise include comfortable walking shoes, a bathing suit, sun hat, sunglasses, and refillable water bottle . 

Outside of the key necessities, you might want to pare back what's in your suitcase. “First-time cruisers generally pack twice what they need,” says Allen-Speer. “Once you have what you think you need, pull out anything that will not go with the comfortable shoes you will wear.” To keep your luggage light, Allen-Speer advises travelers to opt for clothing they can mix and match—and to not forget a light waterproof jacket for chillier days or rain showers.

A first-timer's guide to river cruising

Everything you need to know if you're new to river cruising

river cruising for first timers

If you've never been on a river cruise before, you've come to the right place, as we've answered some of the most common questions travellers ask before embarking on their first sailing.

From why a river cruise might be better for you than an ocean cruise, to what to expect and the dress code for river ships, you'll want to keep reading for our first-timer's guide to river cruising.

Why should I choose a river cruise over a cruise at sea?

A river cruise is a more boutique cruising option and is ideal for travellers looking for their first cruising experience. With smaller ships and fewer passengers on board, river cruises feel more intimate and relaxed.

They're also a more cost-effective way of having a big adventure, as you’ll visit a variety of places over the course of the trip, meaning you can tick various destinations off your travel bucketlist for the price of one holiday. Many river cruises are also all-inclusive, which means you don’t have to think about the day-to-day costs of your holiday.

Eco-conscious travellers might also want to choose a river cruise over an ocean voyage, as smaller ships are kinder to the environment than larger vessels.

river cruise guide

Unlike cruises at sea , river cruises usually take you to the centre of the city you're visiting so you can do more sightseeing and spend less time making your way to the destination. The ports are the main attraction on a river cruise, so you can tick more beautiful places off your travel bucket list.

river cruise guide for first timers

You'll also find that river cruise ships are less entertainment-packed than larger cruise ships , which often impress travellers with sprawling water parks, theatres and cinemas.

On a river cruise, the entertainment is more low-key and could include live music in a lounge bar, an educational seminar, or a cooking demonstration - as on our cruise of Bordeaux with Raymond Blanc.

What can I expect on a river cruise?

Depending on the ship and destinations you visit, there's plenty to experience on a river cruise holiday. Throughout your trip, you can enjoy excursions and activities in the location you're visiting, as you would on a land-based holiday.

This could involve wine tastings and vineyard tours, which will be a big part of our cruises through Bordeaux and the Douro Valley this year. Other itineraries might take you to iconic historic monuments, like our cruise through Venice , which includes a visit to St Mark's Basilica for an atmospheric lighting ceremony and VIP access to Doge's palace during an early morning visit.

Unlike a cruise at sea, a river cruise allows you to be immersed in nature and feel closer to the surroundings as you make your way down rivers, such as the Douro , or the waterways of Venice .

While on board, you can expect a range of cabin types, from spacious rooms with queen beds to luxurious suites with lounge areas, walk-in wardrobes and private balconies. You might also find loungers on the sun decks for you to soak up the sun as you drift along the waterways.

Scenic Diamond, for example, which you can experience on a French river cruise with chef Raymond Blanc , features a stylish sun deck and a swimming pool, sparkling marble interiors, chic furnishings, and first-class suites.

With multiple onboard restaurants, you’ll be able to sample a number of cuisines during your trip, and Scenic Diamond even has its own cookery school, Scenic Culinaire where you can enjoy live demonstrations and classes.

river cruise guide

Most river cruise ships are expertly designed to allow you to appreciate glorious landscapes and cityscapes you'll be passing. Take the lovely A-Rosa Alva, for example, your home-from-home on our eight-day cruise along the Douro . This boutique ship is specifically designed to allow you to soak in the glorious views along the Douro River and boasts a sun deck with recliners, a heated outdoor pool and panoramic windows in most of the cabins.

Many ships also have complimentary bikes so you can explore your surroundings more fully when you disembark at a port.

Tell me more about the ships...

There are different types of river cruise ships and it will depend on the destination you choose as to which ship serves the route. What many have in common are facilities to ensure you can relax on board, as well as welcoming cabins and friendly service to make you feel at home in a boutique space.

river cruise guide

You won't find inside cabins on river cruise ships and as these vessels are smaller overall compared to their ocean counterparts, the cabins are smaller too. A river cruise ship could have around 60 to 90 cabins, while some of the ships at sea have thousands of cabins for passengers.

As the entertainment is more modest compared to what you'll find on a large cruise ship , the evenings can be spent in the lounge with a cocktail and enjoying some live music.

How do I know if a river cruise is for me?

A river cruise is ideal if you're looking to slow down from the hectic pace of everyday life and soak up the beauty of a variety of destinations.

Many river cruise itineraries are suited to lovers of culture who like to visit fascinating cities, too. Our cruise of the Venetian Lagoon , for instance, will take you to many of the region's best cultural monuments, including St Mark's Basilica, Doge's Palace, and the Santa María Asunta Basilica on Torcello.

Our boutique cruise around Venice also allows you to explore the Italian city without the stresses of having to navigate boat timetables or getting from one part of the city to the next.

river cruise guide

Travellers who prefer to keep moving can visit a different location every day. For example, on a cruise around Bordeaux and the Medoc with Raymond Blanc, you'll experience historic Blaye Fortress, the lively farmers markets of Libourne, and medieval Saint-Emilion. If you’re someone who likes your holidays packed with experiences, an excursion-rich river cruise like this could be an excellent choice.

River cruises are also enjoyable for travellers who don't drive or don't fancy planning a rail trip, as your transport is all taken care of. This is especially helpful if you are visiting wine country, like Bordeaux or the Douro Valley – you can enjoy tastings worry-free without having to arrange a taxi or appoint a designated driver.

river cruise guide

Will I have to organise my own shore excursions?

Another benefit of a river cruise holiday is handing over the planning and organisation of your trip to the professionals. You don’t need to figure out where you’re going or how you’ll get there, you can just sit back and enjoy your holiday as it unfolds.

Whether you like gourmet tastings and guided walks, visits to vineyards and olive farms, or browsing local farmers' markets, you'll find a range of excursions included in the price of your trip.

river cruising for first timers

Trips to food markets, walking tours around historical sites and the chance to get active exploring the scenery by bike are just a few of the amazing ways to get to know the destinations you're visiting.

Although an exciting schedule of activities will be arranged for you, there's usually a fair amount of free time factored into your itinerary, which you can either use to relax and make the most of the onboard facilities - or explore a little more on your own.

Is there a dress code?

The dress code for river cruises is typically smart casual, despite the often sumptuous interiors of the boats. You can leave your heels and ties at home for most river cruise holidays and consider them a city break on water, where you'll want to spend your days in comfortable clothing and footwear for exploring the highlights, and your evenings in smart casual attire as you relax and socialise in the onboard bars and restaurants.

river cruise guide

What you pack will depend on what's on your itinerary. Although most river cruises have a casual atmosphere, you could pack some smarter clothes if you have free time in cities like Paris and Venice , where you might want to visit some of the fancier restaurants and bars.

The dress code can also vary depending on the ship and theme of your cruise, so it’s best to check when you book.

Ready to try a river cruise? Check out some of the exciting trips available from Good Housekeeping Holidays this year.

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View of the Porto waterfront with the Douro River and port in the foreground and old, colorful buildings lining the hillside in the background

River cruises along Portugal’s scenic Douro River are heating up in 2024 with new ships and sailings.

Photo by Shutterstock

Following a pandemic pause, river cruise ships have returned to inland waterways around the world, affording travelers a slow and immersive way to explore riverside towns and sights without the hassle of checking into and out of hotels and figuring out local transportation.

New itineraries and themed cruises in 2024 make it possible to go farther afield and explore areas of interest more deeply (such as Black history, cuisine, biking, and hiking). Alternatively, classic tried-and-true routes will bring guests to UNESCO World Heritage sites and other must-see as well as under-the-radar attractions, with most (if not all) of your accommodations, meals, excursions, and Wi-Fi included in your cruise fare.

If you are thinking of taking a river cruise, here are some new and favorite options to consider.

Hit the biking trails of Germany's Black Forest region on an active Avalon Waterways Rhine cruise.

Hit the biking trails of Germany’s Black Forest region on an active Avalon Waterways Rhine cruise.

Israel Ferrera/Unsplash

“Active & Discovery on the Rhine” with Avalon Waterways

  • Best for: Active exploration of Europe’s castles and vineyards
  • Number of days: 8
  • Starting cost: $3,599 per person
  • Location: Rhine River

When it comes to riverside scenery, it’s hard to beat the Rhine, with its 40-mile UNESCO World Heritage-protected Upper Middle Rhine Valley. Here, passengers will want to be out on deck admiring the castles dotting the shoreline. All major river cruise lines offer sailings along the Rhine between Amsterdam and Basel, Switzerland. But for those who want to get their heart rate up a little to the backdrop of stunning Rhine River views, Avalon Waterways’ 166-passenger Avalon Expression cruises a seven-night “ Active & Discovery ” itinerary that combines classic sightseeing with hiking, biking, kayaking, and other adrenaline-boosting experiences. Passengers can e-bike through the Black Forest, trek along the river in Strasbourg, France, and kayak the canals of Amsterdam, among other activities. The cruises are available on select dates, from April to September.

“Boléro South of France” with Riverside Luxury Cruises

  • Best for: Laissez-faire travelers with a taste for old-world architecture
  • Number of days: 7
  • Starting cost: $3,672 per person
  • Location: Rhône and Saône rivers in the south of France

There’s something incredibly romantic about sailing through the south of France. The days blend into each other, walks within walled cities seem endless, and the hot summer nights feel full of possibilities. And what better way to sail through Provence than in luxurious style? Enter Riverside Ravel , the newest ship from Riverside Luxury Cruises , a river cruise line that launched earlier this year resurrecting the formal Crystal fleet of opulent ships.

The all-suite, 110-passenger Ravel relaunched earlier this year and will offer a number of sailings on the Rhône and Saône rivers in 2024. In addition to the 7-night “Boléro South of France” cruise between Avignon and Lyon, offering a deeper dive into the scenic region, Riverside also offers some short-and-sweet three- and four-night itineraries that provide guests with the highlights of Provence. Departures for Riverside’s south of France cruises will take place in June, July, September, and October 2024.

Exterior of a chateaux in Saint-Emilion

Go châteaux hopping in France’s Bordeaux region.

Photo by Jonathan Farber/Unsplash

“Bordeaux Affair” with Scenic Cruises

  • Best for: Oenophiles
  • Starting cost: $5,057 per person
  • Location: Dordogne and Garonne rivers and the Gironde Estuary in France

A must-do for wine lovers is an in-depth exploration of Bordeaux, along the Dordogne and Garonne rivers and the Gironde Estuary in France. Australian luxury line Scenic Cruises does a seven-night “ Bordeaux Affair ” itinerary that’s as appealing as it sounds. Sailings run from late April into October, and while they don’t take passengers far geographically, that’s not the point. Rather the idea is to sip and savor France’s wine country, stopping along the way at gorgeous châteaux and vineyards to enjoy the local product in iconic destinations such as Margaux, Saint-Emilion, Medoc, Pomerol, and Sauternes. Scenic’s tours include several Grand Cru Class estates—Château Franc Mayne and Château Myrat among them. If you cruise in September or October, you’ll also be able to observe the annual grape harvest. The cruises take place on Scenic’s 167-passenger Scenic Diamond .

Small boats of river market on the Mekong

A cruise along the Mekong is a feast for the senses.

“Deeper and Further on the Mekong River” with Pandaw

  • Best for: Exploring the vibrant river life of Cambodia and Vietnam
  • Number of days: 10
  • Starting cost: $4,800 per person
  • Location: Mekong River in Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos

If you’re looking to venture beyond the rivers of Europe, a Mekong river cruise will not disappoint (and may even overshadow). You will explore the fascinating and complex cultures and history of Cambodia, Vietnam, and Laos. Pandaw , a luxury river cruise specialist in Asia, is launching four new itineraries on the Mekong in 2024 that will cater to the different needs of its travelers.

A new 10-night “Deeper and Further on the Mekong River” cruise will take guests on a more immersive journey into the heart of Vietnam and Cambodia, while guests who are tight on time can choose from a new three- or four-night Saigon and Phnom Penh short cruise itinerary (priced from $1,288 per person) for a tour of the highlights along the waterway. A new 21-night “Halong Bay, Red River & Laos Mekong” itinerary (from $10,000) will also be available for those who want to spend more time exploring life on the Mekong River in Laos by combining sailings on multiple rivers in the region.

Lastly, the new 11-night “Classic Vietnam & Cambodia” journey combines a land trip and river cruise for travelers who want the best of both worlds while exploring Southeast Asia, where they’ll make the trek to Siem Reap to see the ancient ruins of Angkor Wat. Fares for this itinerary begin at $4,388 per person.

“Highlights of the Douro Valley and Salamanca River” with Riviera River Cruises

  • Best for: Going beyond traditional western and central Europe
  • Starting cost: $2,849 per person
  • Location: Douro and Salamanca rivers in Portugal and Spain

Portugal’s ‘River of Gold’ is heating up with possibilities in 2024 as a number of river cruise lines introduce new ships and itineraries on the scenic Douro River next year, offering more chances to explore the wine region of the Iberian Peninsula amid the lush hillsides of the Douro River Valley. Riviera River Cruises will launch its newest ship, the Porto Mirante , in July 2024, sailing 10 departures of its new eight-day “Highlights of the Douro Valley and Salamanca River” itinerary between July and October. The itinerary sails round-trip from Porto and will include guided visits of the city’s Old Town, a visit to the Quinta da Pacheca winery, as well as tours of Salamanca, Spain, which will feature a traditional flamenco show over lunch.

Scarlet macaw in flight

Bird-watchers will delight in the chance at spotting scarlet macaws in the Amazon.

Peruvian Amazon with Aqua Expeditions

  • Best for: Wildlife seekers
  • Number of days: 3
  • Starting cost: $2,760 per person
  • Location: Peruvian Amazon

An option that easily can be combined with a visit to Machu Picchu, a cruise on the Peruvian Amazon on the recently launched luxury vessel Aqua Nera (custom-built for the destination) will fuel travelers’ thirst for South American adventure. Aqua Expeditions’ 40-passenger ship has as many crew members as guests, ensuring a high level of service as passengers join local naturalists to explore the black lagoons of the Amazon’s wildlife-rich Pacaya-Samiria National Reserve. Guests stay in sleek suites, enjoying cuisine envisioned by Pedro Miguel Schiaffino, one of Peru’s most celebrated chefs, and facilities that include a cinema, billiards room, and top-deck gym. Kayaking, fishing, and guided nature tours are among the included activities. Four- and seven-night sailings are available as well.

top deck of the Uniworld Mekong Jewel river cruise vessel with orange loungers, a pool and city background

You’ll make memories to last a lifetime sailing along the Mekong River through Vietnam and Cambodia with Uniworld.

Courtesy of Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

“Rivers of the World” with Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

  • Best for: An epic river journey that travels across Europe, South America, and Southeast Asia
  • Number of days: 55
  • Starting cost: $49,400 per person
  • Location: Peruvian Amazon, Rhine, Danube, and Mekong rivers

A blockbuster river cruise sailing is being offered by luxury river cruise line Uniworld Boutique River Cruises —a 55-night “ Rivers of the World ” cruise that explores three continents. The 10-country itinerary begins in Peru and ends in Cambodia, and the itinerary includes flights between countries and luxury hotel stays. Along the route, guests will explore the Amazon and Brazil, cruise through central Europe on the Rhine, the south of France on the Rhône, and end with a cruise on the Mekong River traveling through Southeast Asia. The sailing begins on October 3, 2024.

Visiting Vienna is a highlight of any Danube river cruise.

Visiting Vienna is a highlight of any Danube river cruise.

Sandro Gonzalez/Unsplash

“Romantic Danube” with Viking River Cruises

  • Best for: A first-timer’s river cruise
  • Starting cost: $2,199 per person
  • Location: Upper Danube

If you’ve never been on a river cruise before, the Upper Danube is the perfect beginner’s destination for the wealth of beautiful cities and sights along the way. Cruises sail between Germany and Hungary and include stops in Budapest, Vienna, and Austria’s famous Wachau Valley wine region. Every major river line offers a weeklong classic itinerary along this route. A reliable choice in terms of value and consistency is sailing on one of Viking River Cruises’ contemporary 190-passenger “longships”—the company has a fleet of nearly identical river ships in Europe. The line’s “ Romantic Danube ” itinerary offers quality time in Budapest, Vienna, and the Bavarian city of Regensburg in Germany, where passengers can opt either for included escorted tours or explore on their own. Excursion options include an e-bike ride through vineyards and a visit to Salzburg, Austria, where several scenes of the iconic movie musical The Sound of Music were filmed. Cruises take place from March through December.

A small boat sails along the water in the Danube Delta in Romania with a tower in the background

Explore the lesser-known Danube Delta region in Romania on this comprehensive river cruise.

“Seven River Journeys” with AmaWaterways

  • Best for: A thorough exploration of Europe
  • Number of days: 49
  • Starting cost: $25,650 per person
  • Location: Danube, Rhine, Main, and Moselle rivers, as well as the inland waterways of the Netherlands and Belgium

River cruises that sail for more than a month, offering an intense exploration of the inland waterways of Europe continue to be a hit with slow-travel seekers. One of them is AmaWaterways’ recently introduced 49-night “Seven River Journeys,” which kicks off with two new departures in the spring and summer of 2024 aboard a single ship, the 78-cabin AmaMora . The cruise will sail from the North Sea to the Black Sea, passing through 15 countries across Europe on the Danube, Rhine, Main, and Moselle rivers, as well as the inland waterways of the Netherlands and Belgium. The 49-night spring version runs from April 22 to June 10, 2024, and the summer edition runs from June 10 to July 29.

A stateroom on AmaWaterways' AmaKristrina river cruise ship with a bed, two armchairs and a balcony

Explore southern France in comfort onboard AmaWaterways’ AmaKristrina river cruise ship.

Miroslav Petrasko/AmaWaterways

“Soulful Epicurean Experience on the River” with AmaWaterways

  • Best for: A focus on Black history
  • Starting cost: $4,500 per person
  • Location: Provence in the south of France; and Egypt’s Nile River

River cruise line AmaWaterways is bringing back its Soulful Epicurean river cruises in 2024 with two additional departures available for the 10-night “Soulful Epicurean Experience on the River” sailing on the Rhône River. The cruise will take place on the 156-passenger AmaKristina and will combine the line’s already wonderful “Colors of Provence” itinerary between Arles and Lyon in France with a thoughtfully curated itinerary that focuses on Black heritage and culture. The cruise is capped off with an additional three-night pre- or post-cruise visit to Paris that also focuses on the city’s local Black history, with a full-day excursion exploring the legacy of singer Josephine Baker, while another will focus on Black history in Paris.

The river cruise line is also expanding its Soulful Epicurean offerings across the Mediterranean Sea to Egypt’s famed Nile River, where guests will dive deep into the history and stories of Egypt’s African diaspora while sailing on the 11-night “Secrets of Egypt & the Nile” itinerary onboard the AmaDahlia . Guests can expect to explore colorful Nubian villages and meet the locals who are continuing the traditions of their ancient Egyptian ancestors. There will also be a three-night pre- and post-cruise land extension in Cairo. The Soulful Epicurean sailings on the Rhône embark June 13 and June 17, 2024, with fares starting from $4,500 per person, and sailings on the Nile River set sail on May 17, 2024, with fares beginning at $5,049 per person.

a storefront with a display full of shelves of bottled beers in Ghent, Belgium.

Taste local brews in Ghent, Belgium, on Avalon’s beer-themed river cruise.

Katrina Eglite/Unsplash

“Tulip Time for Beer Enthusiasts” with Avalon Waterways

  • Best for: Beer lovers
  • Starting cost: $3,348 per person
  • Location: Inland waterways and canals of Holland and Belgium

“ Tulip Time for Beer Enthusiasts ” is a themed cruise that Avalon Waterways designed specifically for beer lovers. From Amsterdam, passengers will cruise through Holland and Belgium, where springtime flowers will be on full display (including tulips at Holland’s famous Keukenhof Gardens); along the way there will ample opportunities for sipping brews. A harbor cruise in Rotterdam comes with a beer lecture, and guests can opt for guided visits to breweries in Antwerp and Ghent in Belgium. A beer expert will be on board hosting talks, tastings, and food pairings. The cruise embarks on April 6, 2024. Avalon Waterways also has beer itineraries on the Rhine and Danube.

A rendering of a Panorama Suite on Avalon's forthcoming Alegria vessel

A rendering of a Panorama Suite on Avalon’s forthcoming Alegria vessel, which is launching on the Douro River in 2024.

Courtesy of Avalon Waterways

“Vida Portugal: Vineyards & Villages Along the Douro” with Avalon Waterways

  • Best for: Active oenophiles
  • Starting cost: $3,424 per person
  • Location: Douro River in Portugal

Avalon Waterways will be launching its first ship on the Douro next year, the Avalon Alegria . Boasting 102 cabins, the Alegria will sail the new eight-day “Vida Portugal: Vineyards & Villages Along the Douro” beginning in April, and will feature the river cruise line’s signature Classic, Discovery, and Active excursion choices in ports of call. Guests can also choose the itinerary that includes a three-night extension in Lisbon for $4,373 per person.

Colorful homes with vibrant floral beds line a street in Cartagena, Colombia.

Explore colorful Cartagena, Colombia, on a Magdalena river cruise.

Ricardo Gomez/Unsplash

“Wonders of Colombia” and “Magic of Colombia” with AmaWaterways

  • Best for: Culture and nature lovers
  • Starting cost: $3,600 per person
  • Location: Magdalena River in Colombia

The highly anticipated debut of a new river to explore in South America will arrive in late 2024 when AmaWaterways launches its first ship on Colombia’s Magdalena River. The new 60-passenger AmaMagdalena will sail the two seven-night itineraries, “Wonders of Colombia” and “Magic of Colombia” beginning in November 2024. Both itineraries will sail between Cartagena and Barranquilla and will help guests discover the rich biodiversity of the Magdalena River, as well as the vibrant cultures and communities found along the way in ports of call like Mompox and Magangue. Travelers can also look forward to visiting Palenque, the first “free town” for former African slaves in the Americas, and discover its ties to the African diaspora. Several options to add on a variety of pre- and post-cruise extensions are also available, including a three-night Panama City post-cruise stay for the “Wonders of Colombia” itinerary, and a three-night pre-cruise stay in Medellín for the “Magic of Colombia” voyage.

This story was originally published in 2022, and was most recently updated on September 13, 2023, to include current information.

The Temple of Hephestus

What Is a River Cruise?

where do river cruises go

River cruising is the fastest-growing segment of the cruise industry, according to The New York Times and industry experts. River cruises are still a small part of the overall cruise industry, but river cruising continues to grow in popularity each year. With smaller, more intimate ships and itineraries that take travelers to big cities, small villages and lovely landscapes, river cruise lines offer a very special type of cruise experience.

Smaller Scale, Greater Intimacy

River cruise ships tend to be much smaller than ocean vessels. European river cruise ships, in particular, are relatively narrow and compact because they need to be able to pass through locks and under bridges. This means that you will share your journey with fewer passengers. It also means that there are fewer shipboard activity areas; if your idea of a great cruise vacation depends on the availability of multiple restaurants, spectacular shows and an all-night casino, a river cruise might not be your ideal getaway. Some river cruise ships are so small that they don't even offer a self-service laundry or fitness center. Your meals will be well-prepared and beautifully served, but you will probably have only one or two dining venues onboard your river cruise ship.

Although you probably won't watch a Broadway musical revue on your river cruise ship, you will have plenty of opportunities to relax and to learn about the countries you are visiting. Many river cruise ships offer live piano music in the evenings, a perfect background to the harbor lights you will see on your journey. You may be able to watch local craft demonstrations, listen to lectures, participate in exercise classes or take in a narrated pre-dinner cruise. Open seating during meals will allow you to meet as many of your fellow passengers as you like. You can pack lighter, too, because the dress code on most river cruises is casual.

Focus on Port Calls

On a river cruise, port calls are the main activity. You will probably spend longer in port than you would on an ocean cruise, depending on the itinerary you choose, and many river cruise lines include all or most shore excursions in your cruise fare. Because your journey will take you from place to place via rivers and canals, you will be able to see the countryside surrounding each port from your stateroom or your ship's viewing lounge. You will probably dock in town, relatively near to the heart of each port, because your ship is small enough to dock at smaller piers. Once ashore, you can strike out on your own or sign up for one of your ship's scheduled excursions. Most river cruise lines offer a wide variety of shore tours.

River Cruise Considerations

Here are some points to consider when planning a river cruise:

Disability access varies from ship to ship and from country to country. Some river cruise ships have elevators; very few offer wheelchair-accessible staterooms. Gangways may be very narrow, in some cases too narrow for a wheelchair, or they may be very steep. Shore excursions may take you to places where pavements are uneven or climbing stairs is required. Be sure to ask about excursions that move at a slower pace before you book your cruise.

Your river cruise is likely to be a one-way trip, starting in one city and ending in another. This will make your airfare more expensive, but also offer you the chance to arrive early and / or stay longer in order to explore one or both cities.

Many river cruise lines offer free wine, beer and soft drinks at dinner.

You are less likely to become seasick on a river cruise, but it could happen if your itinerary takes you out onto open water and you are very sensitive to the motion of your ship.

Because you travel so close to land, most river cruise ships do not have doctors or medical professionals on board. If you need medical care, you will be directed to a pharmacy or doctor in town.

Water levels in rivers and canals may affect your itinerary. If the water level is too low, your ship may not be able to navigate shallow rivers, and if the water level is too high, your ship may not be able to pass underneath bridges. Your river cruise line will have a plan for dealing with these issues, of course, but you should be aware that last-minute changes to your itinerary might occur.

Popular River Cruise Itineraries

  • European rivers (Rhine, Danube, Douro, Moselle, Volga, Vistula and more)
  • China's Yangtze River
  • Mekong River (Cambodia and Vietnam)
  • Mississippi River
  • Amazon River

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ON SELECT 2020 CRUISES

INTRODUCING AMAMAGNA

DREAMS DO COME TRUE

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Countries: Austria, Germany, Hungary, Slovakia

Rivers: Danube

Ships: AmaBella, AmaLea, AmaSonata, AmaVerde, AmaViola

Journey along the Danube and see firsthand why this storied river has inspired generations of artists, poets and musicians.

where do river cruises go

Countries: Bulgaria, Croatia, Hungary, Romania, Serbia, Austria

Ships: AmaBella, AmaVerde

Touch history in Austria, Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria and Romania, as you sail along the exotic lower Danube.

where do river cruises go

Countries: France

Rivers: Seine

Ships: AmaDante, AmaLyra

Blend a passion for the good life with culture, art, architecture and the timeless landscapes of Northern France.

where do river cruises go

Enjoy the excitement of reserving your river journey with more flexibility! Plan your river cruise now and protect your purchased services by adding our enhanced Travel Waiver Plus .

where do river cruises go

From our heritage to our innovations, included amenities and unparalleled service, discover why the best way to travel through Europe, Asia, Africa and South America is with AmaWaterways, the Heart of the River™.

where do river cruises go

Special savings and promotions are available on select sailings! See how you can save and contact your travel advisor to receive the greatest value on your river cruise vacation.

Reserve a Combination River Cruise and save an additional 10% on subsequent sailings.

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Hot Topic: Surprise Cruise Reveal Ideas

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26 Helpful Things to Know your First Time on a River Cruise

You'll never forget your first time on a river cruise! It'll either be something you absolutely cannot wait to do again or it may be an experience you feel like you did once and it was enough.

It's not a surprise we instantly fell in love with it after our first river cruise experience. And having gone on a river cruise as first-timers, we definitely have helpful tips for you to know before you go.

Disclosure: There are affiliate links in this post, which means we may earn a small commission if you click the link and proceed with a purchase,  at no cost to you . We truly only recommend hotels, products, and services we personally use. As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Blue waves graphic.

1. Layout of River Cruise Ships

You may be surprised to learn that there are only three to four decks on river cruise ships. (This may especially be a surprise if you're accustomed to ocean cruises with an excess of ten decks.)

The bottom level usually has windows (or what you would equate to portholes). The upper deck cabins have balconies or windows with better views. Not all cruise ships have balconies, but the great ones do!

The bottom deck, which is usually labeled Deck 1, is the least desirable. The upper deck is usually the most desirable. (The deck names vary on Adventures by Disney river cruises and AmaWaterways ships, which gives them names like Piano, Violin, and Cello.)

Generally, the top deck of river cruise ships is reserved for lounge chairs and tables with chairs. There are fun things on the top deck of some ships though.

For example, there are herb gardens on top of many Viking river cruise ships. On Emerald Destiny, we enjoyed a bit of putt-putt golf one day and tic-tac-toe. AmaWaterways has a pool on their top deck!

Man dressed in black playing putt-putt golf on the top deck of a river cruise ship, with a bridge in the background.

There's always one restaurant (if not two) on board, and a bar and lounge area. Many ships also have a dedicated gym and a spa room where massages and facials are given. There is often a hairdresser area where you can sometimes get a manicure or pedicure as well.

Lounge are with couches and a bar on the right with bar stool on a Viking Longship river cruise in Europe.

2. Sometimes you'll have a good view from your cabin, and sometimes you won't

People sometimes ask us, “What side of the ship should I book my stateroom?” The answer is: it doesn't really matter.

There's no difference between a cabin on the port side or starboard side because it's likely your river cruise ship will dock on both sides. This means that you'll be facing land at some point when docked and facing the river other times.

If you really wanted to get into the nitty-gritty of what side will be facing landmarks and when you'd need info only the captain knows. In other words, you'd have to know what dock the river cruise ship was assigned at your port destination. Then you could know what side of the river might have a better view. But that is nearly impossible to find out.

It's such a trivial matter, though. You can always go to a public area of the ship to enjoy a different view. The benefit of a small cruise ship is that it'll just take you minutes, if not seconds, to walk there.

Ready to Book Your Cruise or INquire?

Use our preferred travel advisors, bolds travel, because….

  • They take away the hassle of travel planning : time spent on the phone with the cruise line could be time you spend doing other things.
  • You don't pay them a dime : their service is free (this is because they get paid by the cruise line or destination).
  • Their experience: They have decades of experience and attention to detail.

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3. What area of the river cruise ship is better: back or middle?

In terms of the area of the river cruise ship that's better from back (aft) to middle (midship), there's not a huge difference. If you want to be closer to the action (that is to say, closer walking distance to the restaurant and area you disembark at ports) book a cabin closer to midship.

We'll say, however, that the closer you are to midship and the higher the deck, it's likely the costlier your cabin will be. That cost difference could be significant or insignificant based on your budget. The closer you get to lower decks and the aft of the ship, the closer you are to the engines and a little more noise when you sail.

4. You may be surprised when your ship docks against another river cruise ship your first time on a river cruise

It was surprising to be docked so close by another ship during our first time on a river cruise. We could have opened our window and touched the neighboring ship's window! The boats were literally touching.

We came to find out this is very common in river cruising. You may even need to walk through the lobby area of another cruise ship to get ashore when you're docked. (It's kind of fun though! It's always interesting to see what the interior of other ships look like.)

Two cruise ships docked next to one another, which is interesting to learn they do the first time on a river cruise.

5. If the water is too low, the river cruise ship may not be able to sail

Ships need water to sail. And while river cruise ship boats are flat, allowing them to sail in incredibly shallow water, sometimes the depth is too shallow for safe sailing with people on it. So they need to remove the weight of everyone onboard and then bus the people from one port to another.

This should not affect your meals or where you sleep. But if the water is too low they may bus you from one port to another in order to get the ship through the low-water area.

6. It's very unlikely you'll get motion sickness

We've experienced it firsthand: motion sickness on huge ocean cruise ships! But on river cruises, there's hardly any motion of the river. Which means it's very unlikely you'll experience seasickness.

The boat hardly moves when it's docked and certainly doesn't feel like it's shaking side-to-side when it sails. It simply feels like it's moving forward and getting you to your next destination port.

7. You'll be shocked at how my river cruise ships exist

If you sail a popular river during your first time on a river cruise, you may especially be surprised at just how many river cruise ships exist! It's most astonishing to see in popular ports, like Budapest on the Danube River.

Since river cruising isn't as widely popular as ocean cruising, it's talked about less often. But there are SO MANY river cruise companies and ships.

Why don't we hear about them in the United States?

A big reason is that a lot of them don't market to United States consumers. There are German river cruise companies, French companies, and British ones too, for example. They all heavily market to their own geographical areas. This means we never really hear of them…but they're out there!

8. Onboard evening entertainment is limited but enriching

Your first time on a river cruise may leave you wondering what there is to do after dinner your first night. But don't be surprised if you don't have a plethora of activities to choose from in the evenings. However, you'll find that cruise lines often bring local talent on board to entertain the guests.

After dinner, you may want to grab a drink and play a scheduled trivia game in the lounge, for example. Or perhaps there's a movie playing on board in a public area. (If not, there are likely movies on your cabin TV.) Or see the scheduled entertainment they bring on the ship for an hour or so.

While there is not a casino onboard, or five bars to choose from like on an ocean ship , or late-night stage show performances, we have never been bored on a river cruise. There are usually great movies on your cabin television if you want to retreat to your room, or you can enjoy a book if you want to spend some solo time with your Kindle .

If it's your first time on one, our advice is to enjoy not having to decide between a ton of activities after dinner. There's beauty in fewer options.

9. There is usually a small gym on board and often a track on the top deck

Expect the gym to be “petite” on your first river cruise. It's likely the size of one cabin. The gym is there if you need it and gets the job done, but excellent onboard gyms aren't why anyone we know books a river cruise.

Often, there is scheduled morning yoga in one area of the ship outside of the gym. A track encircles most top decks so you can walk laps on board if you like.

If you love to exercise but don't necessarily want to do it on the ship, rest assured you'll be able to participate in group hikes or bike rides in ports. Or, you can exercise on your own in port cities you visit during the river cruise.

Small gym with two piece of equipment and towels in the background on Emerald Destiny river cruise ship.

10. Small river cruise ships mean that rooms become multipurpose

Spaces are utilized in multiple ways on a small river cruise ship. It's likened to a small living space, where space becomes more precious.

On Emerald Destiny and Emerald Sky with Emerald Cruises, the pool area turns into a cinema space at night where movies are shown. (The top of the pool is closed with a retractable floor.) The bar near the pool becomes a popcorn concession stand.

Chairs at the indoor pool on Emerald Destiny river cruise ship.

11. There are usually one, two, or three restaurants – not ten

Logically, because of the small size of river cruise ships, there's not an abundance of restaurant options. There's usually one or two if not three (which would be generous).

We loved our Emerald Destiny river cruise food experience when we sailed the Danube nonetheless; eating all our meals in the same restaurant didn't phase us one bit.

Your first time on a river cruise won't be affected by one or three restaurants, though. The more interesting thing during a river cruise is the people you connect with and the food you eat! Not necessarily where you eat it.

On that note, there are usually one or two bar areas on river cruise ships too.

12. Embarking on your cruise takes minutes, not hours

When you arrive at your river cruise ship's point of embarkation, you simply walk onto the ship and check-in. You don't go through a huge terminal like ocean cruises, or through metal detectors, or put your bags through x-ray machines. You just walk on and walk up to the front desk and check-in. It's a beautiful thing!

13. You will dock steps away from city centers in small towns and be bused into the city center of others

Your first time on a river cruise may reveal how lovely it is to be so close to the center of a historic destination. We were a lovely 20-minute walk from the center of Melk, Austria when we docked there on the Danube River.

Conversely, we had to be bused into the center of Vienna, Austria during the same river cruise. This was because the river cruises dock in the commercial area of Vienna.

14. The gangway is short: it only takes seconds or minutes to get off the ship

Part of the beauty of small ship cruising is that you can be off the ship in 120 seconds or less. It just depends on how fast you walk!

We have never found a long line forming to disembark the ship. And there's certainly even less waiting to get back on board when you're done visiting a city for the day and want to come back onboard.

15. You have to scan some sort of ID that signals if you're on or off the ship

You'll an ID when you check into the river cruise upon arrival. This could be as simple as a small plastic card with your name on it along with a QR code, for example.

After we checked into our river cruise on the Danube River in October, we arrived at our Emerald Destiny cabin to find our ID cards on the desk.

You don't necessarily need these IDs around the ship; we only needed them to check into and out of the ship when we were in port. This is so the ship can identify who is on board and who is off. Essentially, when they're ready to leave port to head to the next destination they want to know everyone is on board.

16. You can use the river cruise ship bicycles for free

If there are bicycles on board, the crew will unload them in port and allow guests to use them if there isn't a scheduled tour or activity with them. If you love cycling, this is a beautiful way to explore a town. This is included in the cost of your river cruise .

17. You'll quickly learn what “Quiet Voxes” are and what they're used for

Shoreside tours during a river cruise are carried out with the help of little audio devices, called Quiet Voxes . They’re actually quite amazing!

They allow groups of people to be on the same radio channel and listen in together as a guide leads a group tour. Each device is equipped with one earpiece, which is in a new and sealed package upon arrival.

Your Cruise Director will remind you to take your Quiet Vox for a morning tour before leaving the ship. You'll simply scan a number on a card with the tip of the device (and wait for it to vibrate to signal it registered) to get on the same channel as your guide.

You'll quickly learn to remember to plug the devices into their docking station as soon as you return to your cabin.

Learning about Quiet Vox devices your first time on a river cruise ship.

18. The smaller numbers in crew and the guest count will be incredibly rewarding

You'll love how quickly you get acquainted with both the crew and other guests onboard a river cruise. This is thanks to river cruises having small numbers: smaller guest capacity and less onboard crew. Surely, you'll feel the positive effects of this during your first river cruise and every time you sail thereafter.

The guest-to-crew ratio is often 2:1 or 3:1, which means you'll feel extra special when the crew does things like call you by name pretty quickly, or the captain joins you for a meal during a Captain's Dinner, which happens once during many cruise itineraries.

Because you run into the same people over and over again – whether at a neighboring table during river cruise meals , or on the same group tours, or even walking around the small port cities – a friendship forms faster.

Fewer people in the crew also mean that they may do multiple things. For example, your onboard massage therapist may also be your yoga instructor. It all contributes to getting to know one another better, and faster. And it's such a rewarding feeling to feel like your river cruise ship has become a home, even if temporarily.

19. You'll experience the exhilaration of going through locks during your first time on a river cruise 

Locks are human-made devices in rivers that help ships move from one water elevation to another. They're pretty much concrete feats of physics and science. It's a wonder to experience going through a lock for the first time on a river cruise.

If you go through one lock, it's likely you'll go through more. We went through approximately 15 locks during our Danube River cruise from Nuremberg to Budapest. Our Cruise Director during that sailing informed us that the number of locks you go through sailing from Amsterdam to Budapest is 68. SIXTY-EIGHT! Wow.

We enjoyed experiencing the locks from two places in particular: our cabin, where it very oddly feels like you're being lowered into (or rising above) a concrete box. We admit it feels cool at first then feels a little morbid. (If you're claustrophobic and in a lock, perhaps it's best to close your cabin curtains.)

The other cool place to be is the top deck. That way you can likely get a 360-degree view of what's going on around you. You can often see the captain maneuvering the ship through the lock too, then see the lock gates open when the ship is ready to sail on. It's very cool!

Doors to a river lock opening to reveal a sunrise and building in the distance.

20. Guest ages are mixed, but they tend to skew older

We have found that it's true that there tend to be more guests of older generations onboard river cruises. However, there is always a mix of ages no matter the ratio of older to younger guests. We have always had the most delightful conversations and interactions with guests, regardless of their ages, on river cruises. We've also always been fond of getting to know the crew.

If there's anything to know regarding ages your first time on a river cruise, it's potentially that you'll find more older people who have time off from work (or they are retired) and the money to go on small ship cruises, more so than younger generations.

This also depends on the river cruise line. More modern and active river cruise companies are going to have some more younger people on board because that's who they market to.

21. Hand sanitizer is everywhere

If it's your first time on a river cruise but not your first time on a cruise, overall, this won't surprise you. But if it's your first time on a cruise, in general, you may be surprised that there is hand sanitizer available everywhere.

We admit that it's not as shocking to find hand sanitizer everywhere these days following COVID-19.

However, it's nice to know there will be plenty of hand sanitizer on board, just like there was before COVID, no matter when you sail. (For this reason and many more, we think cruises are the safest way to travel .)

22. There is usually just one dinner seating

One dinner seating is available to guests on most river cruises. This is opposed to multiple seatings or dine-any-time models on ocean cruise ships.

There are exceptions to this rule. An example would be when the ship accommodated two dinner seatings on Emerald Cruises Danube River Cruise, while we were in Vienna.

One seating was for guests who were going to see a concert in town that evening and a later dinner seating was for guests who were foregoing the concert. In general, you'll find most river cruises have just one time for dinner because it helps things run more efficiently.

23. Room service on river cruise ships vary

Not all river cruise ships have room service. Some do, some don't.

We didn't have room service as a food option on our Emerald Destiny river cruise , but we didn't miss it. We were well fed. And the dining room on a river cruise ship is always just a one to two-minute walk away!

24. So much is included with a river cruise…but you can still do your own thing

There are a ton of things included in your river cruise for the cost , like guided tours in port. But that doesn't mean you can't do your own thing.

For example, if your ship is in a city where you want to have lunch on land, you can! There's no need to go back to the ship just because lunch is included. (We don't blame you if you want to go to back the ship for lunch, though, if it's in an accessible location and you technically already paid for it.)

The morning we docked in Passau, Germany, during our Emerald Destiny Danube River cruise was THICK with fog. There was an optional, included hike to an iconic fortress in town that morning. But Dan and I felt uneasy about going because we were doubtful we'd see a great view from the fortress's elevation with the morning fog.

Instead, we walked around on our own. It was the best decision for us and the universe rewarded us with an amazing find in town: a Dackelmuseum!

(We're obsessed with dachshund dogs. We never thought we'd come across a dachshund museum in Passau , but we did. And we discovered it thanks to being able to do our own thing whenever we wanted during the cruise.)

We ended up doing the hike on our own, later that day. And the view was spectacular!

Incredibly foggy view of the riverside on the Danube River in Passau, Germany, with colorful buildings in the distance.

25. You will want to pack prepared with layers

No matter the time of year you go on a river cruise you want to pack prepared for layers. Of course, your river cruise packing list may vary in terms of how thick your outer coat is, like if you're going to Europe, for example, in July versus December.

But the weather fluctuates and you want to be prepared with things like cardigans or a lightweight jacket no matter the time of year.

26. Packing comfortable walking shoes

It may go without saying, but just in case: you'll walk a lot if you're physically able to, like any trip to amazing cities and towns. So be prepared with great walking shoes that you have broken in long before your trip so you know the shoes won't give you blisters!

Dan and I always travel with a pair of all -black sneakers because they match everything and we can walk miles in them.

Going on a river cruise? Also check out:

  • Why are River Cruises So Expensive? Or are They the Best Cruise Value Out There?
  • River Cruise vs Ocean Cruise: What’s the Difference?
  • The Best Cruise Apps for Trip Prep and to Use While On Vacation

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Mikkel and Dan Woodruff co-own and operate Sometimes Sailing. Through their cruising expertise, they bring the best travel ideas on the world's waterways to their audience along with packing tips, budgeting advice, and seasonal deals. They have been featured on many of the best cruise podcasts, including DCL Duo and the Joy of Cruising. Their articles are nationally syndicated and have appeared on AP Wire various times.

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28 comments.

Hi – thanks for the awesome information! I am wondering if you would suggest a cruise that has balconies that you could actually sit on versus a “french balcony” which you can’t.

Hi Cindy –

We loved our AmaWaterways experience – they have true balconies. Viking does too. What we loved most about AmaWaterways was that they have so many included excursions to choose from. If you’d like, we’re happy to connect you with our preferred travel advisor team (they’re the best) who can talk specifics about what you’re looking for in addition to the balcony and help get you booked on a cruise. Let us know if this is of interest to you! – Mikkel + Dan

Hello, Thank you for all the great information! I have a question that might seem obvious, is there a bathroom in each cabin or are there just shared bathrooms for guests? Thank you!

Perfectly fine question! Yes, there is one bathroom per cabin/stateroom. 🙂

Your article made me feel a lot more comfortable about this cruise! It answered a lot of questions. Thank you!

We are SO HAPPY to hear that, Kathy!

This was a font of information! I am not sure is you know if the divider panel between balconies on a river cruise an be removed. We are traveling with another couple and requested that on our ocean cruise. Can’t find info on that… thanks

Hi Sue! We do not know of a river cruise line that has a removable divider between balconies for staterooms that are next to each other. The largest balconies we’ve seen on river cruises in staterooms/cabins are in suites, because they’re usually longer and can fit four people. We know that’s not the same thing. However, there are plenty of areas on a river cruise to enjoy outdoor areas as a group. And, overall, river cruises are much more intimate than ocean cruises.

If we find out about a river cruise line has this feature, we will definitely let you know! We just don’t know of any that exist right now with that feature! Great suggestion for the cruise ship builders out there though. 😁

What is the shortest trip? I’m looking for a long weekend River cruise here in the US. Don’t want to go far or stay long. Are their brochures available? I still prefer paper rather than the web🙊

River cruises are typically 7 days but you can find shorter options on the Mississippi, for example. The shortest trip in the US that’s truly a river cruise that we have found is 5 days with American Cruise Lines. Check out the “Five Day Mississippi River Cruise” section of our article here: https://sometimessailing.com/mississippi-river-cruises/

First time on a river cruise and I found your information very valuable thank you my question is about the rooms. Do you really stay in your room and look out the window except maybe in the morning with coffee I am traveling with friends who may pick a cheaper state room hence the windows are really up above and you can’t see out much. I wonder if you really need full wall windows on the cruise to enjoy it. Please let me know.

So glad that our article was helpful. That’s precisely why we share our expertise!

The answer to your question, for us, lies in your cruise itinerary and how much you’re actually sailing. For example, our Bordeaux River Cruise didn’t sail very much at all so we found we were in our room less time because we were onshore more.

But on a Danube River cruise, for example, that sails more, we loved having our room to spend time in during sailing hours and watch the scenery from our balcony or windows. Additionally, it depends how much time you want to spend together, with your friends. If it’s a lot of time, you’ll all likely hang out in common areas anyway so they won’t be in their bedroom. If they can’t see out their bedroom windows, it’s not a big deal – the cabin category may have made it possible for them to be on the cruise(the most important thing) and they can get morning coffee at breakfast and look out the windows in the dining room. Or they’ll simply grab their morning coffee from the common area on the ship where the coffee machine is, then enjoy the public lounges and balconies with plenty of great views as they sip! At night, you can’t see much from river boats anyway so the views don’t matter.

It’s really day time sailing when the sun is up that’s key. And, again, it depends how much your cruise sails and how much you’ll want to be in your room vs. common areas on the ship.

What ship are you going on/what cruise line?

– Mikkel + Dan

I’m going on Uniworlds Castles on the Rhine in May. If you know anything about the River Queen let me know. Or any excursions you enjoyed. Much appreciated.

Hi Beth! We hear great things about Uniworld. Unfortunately, we’ve never sailed on the cruise line so we cannot offer firsthand advice but we know you’ll have a wonderful time! – Mikkel + Dan

Did first river cruise in August this year, had a French balcony, Hardly opened the curtains and never opened the balcony ,only in the cabin to sleep or shower/change. Just looking at booking for next year and considering booking the lower deck at a saving of £800pp, that’s another short holiday

So glad that you are returning to river cruising after an enjoyable first experience in August! Thanks for sharing, Jane!

I am scheduled for my first River Cruise (Avalon-Rhine) in June 2023. I’m a 74 widower, traveling alone but in excellent health. Avalon offers 3 excursion activities for each stop – “Active” versus “Discovery” verses “Classic”. I’ve mostly chosen Active as I’m not much into Wine/beer or Pastry tasting or being shuttled on a bus. But under ‘active’ they also mentioned the word ‘strenuous’. I guess I’d like an idea of “their” definition of ‘strenuous’. I’m physically more like a mid 60 year old but it’s been 40 years since I’ve done a 15 + mile bike trip. I don’t think I can make it to the top of Mt. Whitney or the bottom of the Grand Canyon anymore! 🙂 Your prior experience & observation could be very helpful. Thank you.

Hi Steve! You’re going to love it! It’s so easy to make friends on a river cruise. When people hear you’re traveling alone, they’ll be keen to invite you to be a part of their group if you like! It’s a very friendly atmosphere. And good for you for traveling as a 74 widower! So many people are scared to travel alone. But there’s so much to always explore and discover in the world no matter the travel group or age. In our experience, the activities manager is usually sensitive to the needs of the group. Though we haven’t sailed with Avalon, most cruise lines are similar in that way. Simply ask about the level of activity in more detail when you’re onboard. If for some reason it’s not what you expected even before your excursion but after the conversation with the onboard team, they should let you change the excursion to one more befitting. We’re in our 40s and personally cannot manage a 15+ mile bike trip either! Haha! Best of luck and let us know what happens afterward! – Mikkel + Dan

We’re doing Danube from Budapest to Passau in mid June. Weather at night is cold. Do I need warm clothes inside for dinner or will a top/shirt & pashmina suffice? Thanks!

Hi Cheryl! That’s such a great question. It can be warm or cold at night during summer in Hungary/Germany but of course you’ll likely be inside or simply on the ship in the evenings with an outlier here or there if the ship is in port late or overnight on your particular cruise to explore the port a bit more. We’ve always been fine with a pashmina/cardigan that time of year in Europe in that area. Sometimes it’s colder on the top deck of the ship, outside on the water, but if that’s the case we just go inside! We would recommend one pashmina and one lightweight long sleeve top and you should be okay. Thanks for your question and readership, Cheryl. We appreciate you! – Mikkel + Dan

Thank you for all of the great info. We want to do a river cruise in celebration of our 45th Anniversary. We’ve never done a river cruise, in fact, we’ve never been to Europe. We’re not seasoned travelers. This is a big celebration for us so we want it to be nice. We are active (67 yrs. & 71 yrs.). Is there any way to somehow include 2-3 days of Paris in there? Which river cruise line would you recommend for us and which cruise would you recommend for our first time?

Hi Gwen! What an amazing reason to book your first river cruise and first trip to Europe. A river cruise is PERFECT for people who aren’t seasoned travelers because the cruise line figures out the itinerary for you. All you have to do is book it and show up!

Some cruise lines have an option to book a pre or post-cruise extension option, including to Paris depending on the location of the river cruise.

If you’re active, we definitely recommend Emerald because of their “EmeraldACTIVE” program, which gives you the option to do moderate or easy “hikes” in some areas.

If you’d like to talk to our preferred travel advisors, who are awesome and know more details about specific sailings, their pre or post-cruise extensions, and current pricing and offers from various cruise lines, please see this page and fill out the inquiry form: https://sometimessailing.com/preferred-travel-advisors/

Additionally, they have a pool onboard and a fitness center, along with onboard fitness classes most days. Check out our “Viking vs. Emerald Cruises” post for more info on the differences between the two cruise lines as an example: https://sometimessailing.com/emerald-cruises-vs-viking-river-cruises-who-wins/

Hope that helps! We’re excited for you – you’re going to love it!

On USA river cruise ships, are there cabins with two beds to accommodate friends traveling together?

Great question, Carol. We know that American Cruise Lines can do two twin beds. It might be two double beds for suites, but we’re not 100% sure. But we do know with certainty that non-suite cabins can do two twin beds so you can comfortably travel with a friend. Hope that helps! – Mikkel + Dan

We have traveled on our own in Europe for many years. We are now looking at a river cruise. I have back issues where some days are worse than others. Standing is sometimes difficult for me. We are looking at Grand Circle. Any idea how strenuous the excursions are, and on a “bad” day can we skip the excursion?

Hi Jean – We’ve never been on Grand Circle but we’ve also never encountered a cruise line where excursions were mandatory. You should be fine to opt out and stay on the ship or explore the port on your own, anywhere, as long as you’re back on the ship for all aboard time before it sails on to the next location. Hope that helps! Glad to hear you’re investigating going back to Europe after many years not traveling there. Let us know if you want to speak to our preferred travel agents – they are awesome! – Mikkel

Hi Guys, My wife and I are thinking of a river cruise in 2024/5. We have never wanted to do ocean cruises due to the size of the ships and the amount of people on board. What would the average number of people on board be? My wife and I tend to travel a lot with only carry on luggage. My wife is very organised. We were wondering if there was a requirement to ‘dress’ for dinner. The trip we are planning would also include Canada and parts of Asia so we will be carrying under the plane luggage. Thank you you information was very valuable. John

Hi John – you’ll love river cruising! It really depends what ship you book with what cruise line, but on average river cruise ships have between 100-150 guests. Asia river cruise ships are even smaller. We travel with carry-on luggage only so we completely understand! Dinner isn’t dressy on river cruises. Think of it like business casual, which is the dressiest it gets! But you can wear nice dark jeans or slacks and a nice top (like a button down) to dinner if you want. It’s pretty casual! Hope that helps. – Mikkel + Dan

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The 7 best mississippi river cruises for 2024.

Explore the history, culture and cuisine of the U.S. while cruising along the Mighty Mississippi.

The Best Mississippi River Cruises

American Cruise Lines' Serenade ship in Chattanooga.

Courtesy of American Cruise Lines

The more than 2,300-mile Mississippi River invites travelers to discover its multifaceted heritage, with a vast range of deeply rooted culture, music and history. A cruise is a fantastic way to discover many of the riverfront cities on a single trip, from the comfort of your modern riverboat or traditional paddle-wheeler.

The following Mississippi River cruise itineraries can help you choose from cruises of various lengths and options for the Lower and Upper Mississippi. Note that all fares are listed as double occupancy (based on two people per cabin), and that they might not reflect taxes, port fees or gratuities. The itinerary availability listed is also subject to change.

American Cruise Lines

The River Lounge, including plush chairs, coffee tables and a piano in the back.

Courtesy of American Cruise Lines | www.AmericanCruiseLines.com

American Cruise Lines operates small ships accommodating between 90 and 180 passengers that are built, flagged and crewed in the U.S. – and it's the only company in the world operating a 100% U.S.-flagged fleet of riverboats and cruise ships. ACL's itineraries traverse waterways across 35 states, with 11 itineraries dedicated to the Mississippi River. Cruisers can choose to sail on modern riverboats with a sleek interior design or while away their time aboard classic paddle-wheelers reminiscent of days gone by.

ACL offers variety as well as versatility: This line boasts both the longest and shortest sailings on this list with cruises ranging from eight to 60 days in length, including The Great United States. This inaugural 60-day voyage spans four major rivers and 20 states, making it the longest U.S. river cruise in history.

Complimentary hotel and transportation packages are available from every departure city before your cruise. You can book certain premium packages for added perks, such as two nights spent next door to Graceland in Memphis – with VIP tickets and a city tour included in the price.

Music Cities Cruise

Length: Eight days Price: Starts at $3,610 per person

Spend a week getting lost in the sounds of the Memphis blues, rock 'n' roll and country music legends on the seven-night Music Cities Cruise. A hotel stay the night before your sailing is included, but embarking in Memphis means you also have the chance to splurge on a two-night pre-cruise package near Elvis' former home Graceland .

Ports of call include Paducah, Kentucky; Dover, Tennessee; and Clarksville, Tennessee, with an overnight in Nashville and an included excursion to a show at the Grand Ole Opry. Two scenic sailing days feature picturesque views of America's Heartland along the Mississippi, Ohio and Cumberland rivers as well as Lake Barkley.

2024 dates: In 2024, there are two available itineraries in September and November.

Grand Heartland Cruise: St. Paul to New Orleans

Length: 15 days Price: Starts at $9,455 per person

This 15-day voyage allows you to explore America's rich history in towns along the Upper and Lower Mississippi River. The immersive voyage covers six states and 12 cities including St. Paul, Minnesota ; Dubuque, Iowa; St. Louis, Missouri ; Memphis, Tennessee; Natchez, Mississippi; Baton Rouge, Louisiana ; and more.

Take a step back in time while visiting Mark Twain's boyhood home in Hannibal, exploring stately historic estates in Natchez and Civil War sites in Vicksburg. At the end of a busy day ashore, you'll have plenty to chat about with fellow passengers during the evening cocktail hour.

2024 dates: American Heritage – ACL's traditional paddle-wheeler – and three modern riverboats set off on this journey from August to October in 2024.

Complete Mississippi River Cruise: New Orleans to St. Paul

Length: 22 days Price: Starts at $14,935 per person

If you want to see the entire Mississippi in one shot, check out this multiweek sailing that begins in New Orleans and ends in St. Paul, Minnesota. Along the way, you'll sail 1,393 miles, visit 10 states and experience a staggering 20 ports of call as you tour Louisiana and then head northbound to Minnesota.

In the South, walk the battlefields of the Civil War and sample delicious Southern barbecue before listening to the rhythms of jazz, the blues and rock 'n' roll. Then, explore the small and larger cities along the upper parts of the river. Remember to take time to gaze out at the picturesque scenery and the rolling farmlands of America's Midwest before disembarking in St. Paul.

2024 dates: Three of ACL's modern riverboats sail this itinerary in May, June and August in 2024.

The Great United States

Length: 60 days Price: Starts at $51,000

This two-month long journey – the longest domestic itinerary ever created – will check all the boxes for U.S. history and Civil War buffs, music and nature lovers, culinary enthusiasts, and beer and distilled spirits aficionados alike as the ship traverses America's iconic waterways through 20 states and 50 ports of call.

This epic journey showcases the natural beauty and living history of the U.S. from sea to shining sea. The sailing embarks in Portland, Oregon , on the Pacific Coast before traveling east to the Atlantic shore along four major rivers that highlight some of the country's most stunning coastlines. Upon arrival in New York Harbor, guests will have an unforgettable view of one of the most iconic landmarks in the U.S.: the Statue of Liberty .

Passengers can follow in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark along the Snake and Columbia rivers; cruise along Ol' Man River in search of Mark Twain and Elvis; see the vibrant colors of fall during peak season on the Hudson River; and take in the coastal breezes (and fresh seafood) along New England's rocky coastline.

This curated adventure also includes two flights: Jackson, Wyoming , to New Orleans as well as St. Paul to Portland, Maine , plus a land package through Glacier , Yellowstone and Grand Teton national parks. All-inclusive pricing covers the pre-cruise hotel stay, all flights and hotels between cruise segments, an ACL jacket and gear pack, daily excursions, all meals and beverages, gratuities and port charges, entertainment, and Wi-Fi.

2024 dates: The inaugural cruise sets sail on August 16, 2024.

where do river cruises go

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

Viking River Cruises

Viking cruise ship under a bridge on the Mississippi River.

Courtesy of Viking

Viking is no stranger to sailing Europe's rivers; the brand is synonymous with river cruising worldwide aboard its dozens of ships. However, Viking River Cruises is a newcomer to U.S. rivers, with its purpose-built ship: the 386-passenger Viking Mississippi. Looking to carve out its own niche in the American river cruising category, Viking claims it has the region's "first truly modern cruise ship" with its distinct Scandinavian design and expansive top sun deck with an infinity plunge pool.

Viking's mostly all-inclusive fares include a complimentary excursion in each port, destination lectures and performances, beer and wine at meals, free Wi-Fi, specialty coffees and teas, and more. The line offers five itineraries ranging in length from eight to 22 days along the Mighty Mississippi. Pre- and post-cruise extensions can be added to all voyages for an additional expense.

New Orleans & Southern Charms: Round-trip from New Orleans

Length: Eight days Price: Starts at $3,999 per person

If you don't know which Viking Mississippi itinerary to choose, start here. A round-trip voyage from New Orleans is convenient for booking flights and offers an excellent opportunity to extend your stay in NOLA. Six guided tours are included across eight days, from the historic estates of Natchez to Vicksburg National Military Park. A stop in St. Francisville gives you the chance to marvel at some of the 140-plus buildings it has on the National Register of Historic Places.

If you extend your stay in New Orleans, plan to sample the local Creole cuisine and take in some of the city's nightly jazz entertainment. In the morning, grab a beignet and a steaming cup of chicory coffee au lait at the original Café du Monde in the French Market.

2024 dates: This itinerary is available on select dates in February, November and December.

Heart of the Delta: New Orleans to Memphis

Length: Nine days Price: Starts at $4,299 per person

Similar to its round-trip New Orleans Southern Charms itinerary, the Heart of the Delta cruise begins in New Orleans and calls on the same five ports, before sailing through the Lower Mississippi and disembarking in Memphis. Enjoy scenic views of the serpentine river route – perhaps with expert commentary or a local cooking demonstration – and then take time to explore the birthplace of the Memphis blues, which is also a center of civil rights history.

2024 dates: In 2024, this cruise is available in February, March, April, May, June and November.

America's Great River: St. Paul to New Orleans

Length: 15 days Price: Starts at $12,999 per person

This Viking voyage sails from St. Paul to New Orleans on a two-week trip that calls on 13 ports with one day of scenic sailing. This itinerary combines the best of Viking's other Mississippi sailings for an all-encompassing Midwestern and Southern experience with 12 guided tours.

Included in the fare is a tour of Graceland; a stroll through small-town Burlington, Iowa, to see Snake Alley, deemed the most crooked street in the world; and a visit to the National Eagle Center of Red Wing, among others. For an additional fee, hop on an airboat ride through the Atchafalaya Swamp in Baton Rouge or tour the Anheuser-Busch Brewery of St. Louis.

2024 dates: Viking has availability for this itinerary in July, September and October.

Want to cruise the Mississippi River? See the top cruises on GoToSea , a service of U.S. News.

You may have seen riverboat gambling ships or are at least familiar with riverboat gambling along U.S. waterways. However, while high rolling on the river sounds like an exciting way to spend a night (or two, or more) while on your riverboat cruise, you'll have to jump ship to play the slots, roll the dice, spin the wheel or play a hand of Texas Hold 'em. Gambling on cruise ships sailing on internal waters is prohibited by U.S. law.

Gambling on boats in the U.S. is a complicated matter. While you will find some ships sailing along American waterways that are only set up for gambling, they are not carrying passengers from port to port. Most vessels that feature riverboat gambling are now moored, offering sports betting, table games, entertainment, live music and dancing while tethered to shore.

Why Trust U.S. News Travel

Gwen Pratesi has been an avid cruiser since her early 20s. She has sailed on nearly every type of cruise ship built, including the newest megaships, paddle-wheelers on America's waterways, and an 18-stateroom river ship on the Mekong River in Vietnam and Cambodia. Most recently, she traveled on a small luxury expedition vessel in Antarctica and crossed the notorious Drake Passage twice. She covers the travel and culinary industries, specializing in cruises, for major publications including U.S. News & World Report.

You might also be interested in:

  • The Top River Cruise Lines
  • The Top All-Inclusive Cruises
  • Cruise Packing List Essentials
  • The Top Cruise Insurance Plans

Vacation Ideas for Every Traveler

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17 Useful Things To Know Before Your First European River Cruise

From what to pack and cabin choices to excursions and extra costs, here are 17 useful things to know before your first european river cruise..

I’ve just got back from my first European river cruise, enjoying an 8-day Avalon Active & Discovery cruise down the Rhone in France . It was a wonderful experience. I had a large panoramic suite, enjoyed plenty of delicious meals and explored a gorgeous region of France too.

You might find yourself taking lots of photos

This was my first river cruise and while I’d researched quite a lot about the trip’s itinerary, I had quite a few unanswered questions before I went. I wondered what to pack, whether there would be lots of extra costs and what the other passengers would be like. Also, after everything that’s happened in the last few years, I wondered just how safe I’d feel.

So, whether you’re deciding whether to book or you’re setting off on a trip soon, here are 17 useful things to know before your first European river cruise.

A beautiful day cruising on the Rhone

You can read my review of the Avalon Poetry II ship or find out all about the route I took in my South of France itinerary .

17 Things To Know Before Your First European River Cruise

Are there covid-19 measures on board river cruises.

It’s been a challenging few years for cruises, but this trip felt very safe. First and foremost, you have to be fully vaccinated in order to travel with Avalon. That rule applies to all bookings until the end of 2022, but it could be extended further. All staff are fully vaccinated too.

When I arrived to check in, my suitcase was disinfected with a light sanitising mist. There were temperature checks before breakfast some days and there were hand sanitising stations as you board the boat, outside the restaurant area and in our rooms.

In terms of masks, the staff were wearing them, but it was up to guests if they wanted to wear them too. The only requirement was to wear them around the breakfast and lunch buffets, but I chose to wear mine in the lobby area and on the coaches for excursions.

Complimentary champagne on the first evening

The team on board organised PCR and Antigen tests for guests requiring negative test certificates to return home. I felt very safe travelling with Avalon. It was like our ship was its own bubble!

Can I take my whole family on a river cruise?

While most people on my river cruise were travelling with their significant other, I was amazed to see some multi-generational groups too. Avalon have a policy that you must be 13+ to travel on their river cruises, and if you’re under 18 you must be accompanied by an adult.

It was lovely chatting to all three generations of the same family who were enjoying their first big group trip since Covid. I wondered if the teenagers would enjoy the style of travel (and the fact most people on board were a lot older!) but one of them described it as the ‘best vacation ever!’

Kayaking under Pont du Gard, France

I think the fact that this was an Active & Discovery cruise made it appeal to a broader demographic. There were plenty of adventurous activities such as biking and kayaking for the younger ones, while the grandparents could enjoy a slower pace of life on a wine tour or at a painting workshop.

How do I pack for a river cruise?

I was invited on a Rhone river cruise from Lyon to Marseille at the start of October. Everything I’d researched seemed to say the temperatures might reach 20 degrees during the day and drop to around 12 at night. However, the week before I travelled the region was battered by storms, so it would have been quite a different trip if I’d been on the ship then!

View over Les Baux-de-Provence

I’ll admit I totally overpacked for my trip as it was my first river cruise and I had no idea what to expect! In general, I wore casual clothes during the daytimes and smarter outfits for the evenings. Here are a few other observations if you’re wondering what you’ll need:

  • There really is no set dress code, ever!
  • Most guests wore comfortable loungewear and sportswear for excursions (tracksuits, leggings, lightweight anoraks, trainers).
  • You can dress up as much as you like for dinner and drinks. Some ladies wore smart dresses for the evenings, others just wore jeans and a top. Anything goes!
  • I wished I’d packed a warmer coat as there were a few evening excursions where I was a bit cold.
  • Think about footwear. I went kayaking one day and wished I’d packed water shoes or a pair of sports sandals. Instead I got my trainers soaked and they took 24 hours to dry out!
  • Pack a small day bag and a refillable water bottle for excursions. Avalon have water taps on board so you’ll never need to buy water.
  • It can get chilly out on the deck, even when the sun is shining, so pack a few layers.
  • Research regions for any extra items that might be useful. For example, The Camargue in France is known for mosquitoes, so packing some repellent or long trousers would be a good idea.

Enjoying the views in Tain-l'Hermitage

Do river cruises cater for specific dietary needs?

No matter what your diet is, the Avalon team are happy to create dishes that meet your needs. Whether that’s vegan, vegetarian, lactose free, coeliac, a nut allergy or something else, there will always be things you will be able to eat.

Breakfast and lunch are served as a buffet, so you can help yourself to items that suit your diet. There’s also a meeting on arrival day with the catering team where you can discuss any specific requirements. The team was always very accommodating and I thought the food was excellent.

Delicious dinner on board the Avalon Poetry II

Is there enough to eat and drink on a European river cruise?

I was really impressed that as well as breakfast, lunch, afternoon tea and dinner, there were always hot drinks and snacks available in the Club Lounge. It’s almost an all-inclusive experience! As well as a tea and coffee machine, there were usually muffins and cookies freely-available 24/7. It’s extremely unlikely you’ll get hungry or thirsty on a river cruise like this!

Complimentary drinks and snacks in the Club Lounge

Is there Wi-Fi on board river cruises?

There is free Wi-Fi available on board the Avalon ships, but don’t expect it to offer the connectivity you’re used to back home! Sometimes it was fine but at times when most guests are on board (for example just before dinner), the connection may weaken. It didn’t take anything away from my experience, but I’d recommend having some data on your phone plan just in case.

There is Wi-Fi in the rooms on Avalon cruises

Do I need to leave tips or gratuities?

Avalon have an option to pre-pay your gratuities when you book, so you don’t have to think about it once you’re away. If you don’t opt in for this, there’s another option to pay at the end of your cruise. Tips aren’t compulsory, but it is recommended as there are so many amazing staff who go out of their way to make the experience special.

When I travelled the recommendations were €12 per passenger per day for the crew and €3 per passenger per day for the cruise director. That’s a total of €15 per person per day, or €105 for the trip. You can either put the tips in envelopes left in your room on the final evening, or you can pay by card at reception.

One of the nightly Port Talks

Is it noisy when you’re cruising?

This was one of my concerns as I’m such a light sleeper and I knew that some of our sailing times would be overnight. When the boat is moving, there’s a light hum which you get used to quickly. It definitely didn’t keep me awake. There can be a bit of noise when you arrive somewhere as the crew moor the boat.

In general I was amazed by how quiet the ship was. I expected the walls between cabins to be thin, and assumed I’d hear people in their bedrooms or walking along the corridor, but it was very peaceful.

Should I choose a specific cabin?

The Avalon Poetry II has two full decks of Panorama Suites. Each suite has incredible wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling panoramic windows. The doors slide too, so you can enjoy the breeze as you go. I’d recommend booking a Panorama Suite, ideally on the upper floor as you’re more likely to have a good view.

Avalon Poetry II

While it’s not a major issue, you might find that the side your cabin is on could make a small difference to your experience. For example, we were travelling southbound on the Rhone, and tended to moor up to the right side. As my cabin was on the right, that meant that often when we were moored, my view would be of a wall or a jetty, rather than the open view of the river.

However, sometimes another ship would moor up to ours, which could mean that you’d have a view of another bedroom as you open your curtains! When you book, you might be able to ask the Avalon advisors for info on this kind of thing.

Can I change the activities I booked?

I was amazed by how flexible this trip was. It was recommended that we pre-book the included excursions before travelling, but sometimes it was still possible to change activities the day before or on the day. There were only a few activities that had set numbers due to safety regulations or transport.

Wine tasting in Tain-l'Hermitage

Do excursions ever get cancelled?

It’s rare that excursions would be cancelled, but occasionally things might not run due to bad weather. For example, I was hoping to go kayaking in Gorges de l’Ardeche, but the recent storms had made water levels dangerous, so the excursion was cancelled. Avalon quickly added spaces to their hiking trip in the same area, so I was still able to see the same sights.

As a goodwill gesture, the cruise director offered to rebook anyone from the kayak trip to an optional excursion kayaking under Pont du Gard (which usually carries an extra fee). What great service! This happened to be one of my favourite activities too. You can read more about it in my South of France itinerary .

Kayaking under Pont du Gard, France

Are river cruises bad for the environment?

To be honest, before accepting this river cruise invite, I researched this in detail. I know that ocean cruises have a pretty terrible reputation, but river cruises are tiny in comparison to those enormous floating eyesores!

Avalon have a good sustainability policy, and are dedicated to reducing waste and emissions too. Here’s what I learned when researching the company’s policy. In the last 2 years Avalon has:

  • Eliminated single-use plastics onboard ships worldwide.
  • Reduced paper waste by 80% onboard.
  • Installed LED lighting throughout ships.
  • Partnered with farmers along the routes so that ingredients are sourced locally, reducing food miles.
  • Partnered with The Ocean Cleanup which is helping to reduce the flow of plastics from rivers to oceans.

There are also big plans for the next few years, as Avalon is aiming to reduce paper waste to less than 1% and try to reduce total carbon emissions by 50%. There are also good intentions to unveil the first fully electric river cruise vessel by 2027. How amazing would that be?!

I guess when you look at sustainability, you have to remember that staying in a hotel or driving somewhere also has negative impacts on the environment. I was pleased to travel with a company that is eco-aware and actively working to improve.

Will I meet like-minded people on a European River Cruise?

No matter your age or interests, you’re likely to find some like-minded people on a river cruise. Unlike ocean cruises where you might have thousands of people on board, a river cruise has just over 100. It’s intimate enough that you really get to know others.

Our final night dinner on board the Avalon Poetry II with lots of new friends

I also think that if you’ve all chosen to book the same cruise, you’re likely to have a shared passion for travel and new experiences!

One of the most heart-warming things about the experience was watching friendships blossom. Couples who sat in their twos on night one joined up with others by the end of the week, creating dinner tables of four, six and even eight! It really felt like deep friendships were created in a matter of days.

Are there solo travellers on river cruises?

Yes! I spoke to the Avalon team and they always keep a few spots on each European cruise for solo travellers and even waive the single supplement fee. As you’ve just read, it’s a friendly atmosphere and you’ll naturally meet people throughout the week.

Are the days tiring?

Yes and no! On my Avalon Active & Discovery cruise I chose every excursion I went on. I really liked the freedom of this as it meant I could choose tours for the morning and afternoon, or have whole days where I didn’t leave the ship if I wanted a rest.

The morning excursions usually leave between 8-9am and return by lunchtime. The optional excursions in the afternoons tend to leave at 2pm and return by 5pm. The trips were so varied and appealing, it was hard to resist going on tours every day! As dinner is always at 7pm, you could be finished by 8pm and get an early night if you wanted a good rest.

So, in terms of the days being tiring, they’re as relaxed or active as you want them to be, as you choose exactly what you do!

All streets lead to the amphitheatre in Arles!

How do the excursions work on a European river cruise?

When I checked into my suite on the Avalon Poetry II there was a little earpiece and lanyard waiting for me. This was for the ‘Whisper’ audio system which is used on most tours.

Whisper audio system

When you’re heading out on an excursion, you just collect the colour-coded audio receiver from the lobby, plug in your earpiece, and then you’ll be able to hear the tour guide loud and clear. It’s a really good system, and means you’re not straining to hear the guides, and they aren’t having to shout!

Are there lots of hidden extras I should be prepared for?

The price of an Avalon cruise actually covers the majority of your trip. The only things that aren’t included are optional excursions (for example, there were some afternoon wine tasting tours in Beaujolais and Châteauneuf-du-Pape), drinks from the bar and gratuities (unless you prepaid those). I thought it was great that all food and morning excursions were included. This isn’t the same on all river cruises, and definitely sets Avalon apart from the competition.

Cocktails in the bar of the Avalon Poetry II

I hope these river cruise FAQs help you with your trip planning. As mentioned, I was a guest of Avalon so all of my tips and suggestions relate to my Avalon experience. Other European river cruises may differ slightly. Let me know if you have any other questions and I’ll do my best to answer them.

If you’d like a detailed guide to the river cruise ship I travelled on, take a look at my review of the  Avalon Poetry II . You can also read more about the route I took through France in my post:  Lyon to Marseille – the perfect South of France itinerary .

A big thanks to  Avalon Waterways  and  iambassador  for inviting me to be part of the #AvalonAD campaign. As always, all opinions are my own.

Chloe Gunning

With a passion for food, fun and adventure, Chloe is the content creator behind one of the UK's top travel blogs Wanderlust Chloe. From volcano boarding in Nicaragua, to sailing around Sicily and eating her way around Japan, her travels have taken her to some of the coolest spots on the planet. Named Travel Influencer of the Year in 2022, Chloe regularly works with a number of tourism boards, producing inspirational travel content across multiple platforms. Find out more about Chloe here.

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15 of the Best European River Cruises

Explore France, Germany, and more on these European river cruises.

where do river cruises go

Much of the appeal of European river cruises, especially as we emerge from the pandemic with pent-up travel demand, is the small size of the ships, casual atmosphere, and accessibility. Unlike oceangoing ships that carry as many as 5,000 passengers, most river cruise ships accommodate around 150 guests, for a more intimate experience. Balconies, floor-to-ceiling windows, and open-air viewing are features of most river cruise ships, and some offer pools, spas, fitness areas, and jogging tracks.

Guests are kept busy (if they wish to be) with daily shore excursions, and most cruises offer several options depending on interests and activity levels. Bikes and walking tours are available in most ports, or guests can choose a leisurely day in a comfortable lounge enjoying the passing scenery.

"River cruises offer opportunities to step ashore in fairy-tale towns and fabled cities. You can immerse yourself in contemporary culture and learn something about the history of the towns along the continent's greatest rivers," according to Ralph Grizzle of River Cruise Advisor . "Sitting on the top deck of a ship under brilliant blue skies, you can gaze on fabled landscapes dotted with castles, villages, and vineyards. A flight of stairs down, and you have all the amenities of a modern hotel—restaurants, bars, fitness facilities, spas, internet access, and comfortable staterooms."

With a number of cruise companies and rivers to choose from, planning a river cruise can take some time. Consulting with a travel advisor is always a good idea, and there's plenty of information available online as well. These are the major companies offering the best European river cruises along with examples of their itineraries.

Perhaps the best known of the river cruise companies, Viking promotes their "longships," which include large suites and inviting verandas for outdoor dining. Guests enjoy Viking's destination-focused dining as well as the variety of staterooms and itineraries with a wide range of prices.

Viking's 10-day "Portugal's River of Gold '' begins in Lisbon with a walking tour through its ancient streets before heading to Porto, home of the country's traditional wine, to board the ship and begin the cruise along the Douro River. Guests can explore Baroque palaces, vineyards, and lush scenery along the way, arriving in the World Heritage city of Salamanca, Spain on day six. The itinerary includes visits to Portuguese villages in Pinhão and Régua to sample local foods and wines before returning to Porto.

AmaWaterways

Celebrating their 20th anniversary in 2022, this family-owned and operated cruise company focuses on excellent food and wine, tasteful décor, stateroom views, and innovation in their luxurious fleet. Fares include fitness classes, shore excursions, and all dining on board, including The Chef's Table specialty restaurant. New ships debut each year, and the spacious AmaMagna , launched in 2019, is nearly twice the width of traditional European cruise ships.

Wine lovers will want to experience the seven-night "Taste of Bordeaux," with visits to iconic chateaux, timeless vineyards, and delicious wine tastings while cruising the Garonne and Dordogne Rivers. Excursions include a tour of a medieval castle and tasting of Sauternes, a stop in Pauillac, gateway to the Medoc wine region, and a Saint-Emilion tour and tasting. Returning to Bordeaux, guests will explore this UNESCO World Heritage Site and capital of the wine world.

Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

Uniworld's one-of-a-kind vessels are inspired by the locales they visit, making their luxurious ships a destination in themselves. Billed as "the world's only authentic boutique cruise line," Uniworld offers in-suite butler service, world-class cuisine, and all-inclusive rates that cover premium spirits and wines as well as gratuities.

Their eight-day "Enchanting Danube" cruise aboard the S.S. Maria Theresa begins in Budapest with a choice of touring by bicycle or walking. A stop in Vienna includes a Mozart and Strauss concert at a Viennese palace, a city tour, and a taste of local delicacies. The cruise ends in Passau with a choice of bicycling, walking, or hiking to explore the city and a special captain's farewell reception and dinner.

Avalon Waterways

Avalon features wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling windows with beds facing the views for ultimate enjoyment from their suites and staterooms. Large private bathrooms include full showers and L'Occitane bath amenities. Their deluxe beds and luxurious linens provide comfort in spacious, quiet quarters with ample closet space. Avalon offers "Active & Discovery" river cruises with activities for a variety of energy and fitness levels, from traditional sightseeing to action-packed experiences.

The "Active & Discovery on the Rhone" cruise begins in Lyon and heads south through the French countryside of Provence and ends in Port-Saint-Louis. On the way, Avalon Choice excursions include a culinary walk, cooking class, painting workshop, wine tastings, guided bike rides, and more, with Active, Classic, and Discovery level activities.

Started as a New England motor coach tour company, Tauck is a family-owned global travel firm offering tours and cruises to a wide range of destinations around the world. Their award-winning European river cruises are praised for their personalized service, exclusive destination experiences, luxurious cabins and suites, fine dining, and professional, caring staff.

"Impressions from the Seine: Paris to Normandy," an eight-day cruise, features stops in historic small villages and towns and a visit to the D-Day beaches of Normandy and the American Cemetery at Omaha Beach. A private visit to the home and gardens of Claude Monet at Giverny and a visit to the Impressionist Museum will please art lovers. Other highlights include a guided visit to Versailles, Louis XIV's magnificent palace and gardens, the Cathedrale de Rouen, and Joan of Arc Square.

Scenic offers both ocean and river cruises, all with emphasis on its fleet of "Space-Ships" and their meticulous design and spacious quarters. Guests enjoy personalized butler service and all-inclusive cruising. Ships offer a wellness area, massage services, gym, e-bikes, and onboard entertainment. Scenic's "FreeChoice" excursions offer something for all activity levels.

The "Charming Castles & Vineyards of the Rhine & Moselle" begins with arrival in Frankfurt and transfer to Mainz for boarding. Stops include Koblenz, where guests can take a walking or e-bike tour. There's a private classical music concert and tour of Reichsburg Castle along the way, as well as optional visits to the Mercedes-Benz factory or a walking tour of Strasbourg and its magnificent cathedral.

Emerald Cruises

Emerald offers both yacht and river cruises, with a range of cruises on the rivers in Europe. Founded in 2013, Emerald now features a fleet of nine "Star-Ships," with stylish suites, first-class amenities, and room for 180 guests. Most carry bicycles, and all staterooms are equipped with hiking poles. Excursions include the EmeraldPLUS program of special experiences to connect with their destinations, and EmeraldACTIVE offers faster-paced guided tours, bike rides, hikes, and activities.

The eight-day "Sensations of Lyon & Provence" cruise begins in Lyon and heads to a quaint village and then south again towards Tournon, with its 16th-century castle. Along the way, guests can choose a hike through vineyards, canoe trip, village walking tours, or wine tasting onboard.

Adventures by Disney River Cruises

Partnering with AmaWaterways, Adventures by Disney offers cruises on the Seine, Rhine, and Danube Rivers, Disney style. Specially designed itineraries and Adventure Guides create experiences for parents, children, and teens, from active excursions to unique onboard activities. Adults-only dinners and wine tasting experiences along with teen programming, Disney movie nights, karaoke, trivia nights, and Junior Adventurer dinners provide entertainment for guests of all ages.

The eight-day Danube River Cruise starts in Budapest where excursions include a horse show at an equestrian park and a goulash-making competition for Adventurers. In Bratislava, Junior Adventurers can visit a petting zoo, and in the evening, there's family karaoke. A tour of Vienna and Schönbrunn Palace, marionette show, concert, and strudel making are options the next day. A day in Salzburg ends onboard with "The Sound of Music" film and singalong. After an Oktoberfest celebration and captain's farewell dinner, the cruise ends the next day.

CroisiEurope Cruises

Established in 1976, Croisi offers cruises on rivers, canals, and seas with a fleet of oceangoing ships, canal barges, and river cruise ships. The company's innovative approach allowed them to be pioneers on several rivers in Europe including the Gironde, Loire, Po, and Elbe, basing their ships' design on the characteristics of the waterways.

CroisiEurope's seven-day "Hamburg to Berlin: Discover the Medieval Charms of Hanseatic Cities" cruise starts with guided tours of Hamburg and Lübeck, A UNESCO World Heritage Site. After a morning cruise, the ship will ride on the Scharnebeck twin ship lift, one of the highest in Europe, with a vertical lift of 125 feet. An optional visit to the Autostadt theme park, dedicated to German auto design, and an afternoon cruise fill day four. The next day, there's a tour of Magdeburg, known for its fascinating architecture and culture. The ship arrives in Berlin for a tour and festive evening.

This German cruise company' s distinctive ships are easy to recognize by the large red lips and rose on the bow. Their fleet of 12 ships was joined by the new A-Rosa Sena , a hybrid powered ship expected to cruise the northern Rhine almost silently and emission-free. Family-friendly amenities include a kids club, heated outdoor pools, and free passage for children ages 15 and under.

The six-day "Highlights of the Rhine" cruise begins in Cologne and cruises on to Rotterdam and then Amsterdam the following day. Options include a bus tour, canal tour, pedal boats, or private auto tour, each at an additional cost. A variety of ways to explore Utrecht the next day are available. On day six, the ship returns to Cologne.

Lueftner Cruises

This Austrian family business dates back more than 40 years and offers European river cruises on its fleet of 16 AMADEUS ships. Five-star service, facilities, and cuisine are their hallmarks, and their ships feature wide panoramic windows and a spacious sun deck.

The eight-day "Saar and Moselle Fairytales" cruise boards in Cologne and cruises down the Rhine to the Moselle and its tributary, the Saar River. The ship passes the Mosel vineyards and docks in the medieval town of Cochem for a guided walking tour. The next day, guests can tour the town of Bernkastel-Kues and enjoy a wine tasting or hike to the ruins of a castle for a stunning view. After a morning tour of Saarburg, the ship cruises along the Saar River with panoramic views of its massive loop. The ship stops in Luxembourg and then continues to Koblenz, where the Rhine and Moselle Rivers meet, before returning to Cologne.

Apt River Cruises

This Australian-owned organization is the country's largest family-owned tour and cruise company , offering a variety of travel styles. Their Concerto River Ships, AmaVenita , AmaStella , and AmaReina , cruise on the Danube, Main, Rhine, and Douro Rivers with luxury accommodations and excursions. Apt charters the ships from AmaWaterways, but their itineraries and onboard programs are unique to Apt River Cruises. Apt's offerings include rail journeys, as well as small boat, yacht, and ocean cruises.

Their 15-day "Magnificent Europe" cruise begins in Amsterdam with a canal tour and cruises the Rhine, Main, and Danube Rivers before arriving in Budapest. The ship docks in Koblenz and takes a daytime cruise through the Rhine Gorge before landing in Miltenberg for a guided tour of the city. On day six, guests can choose a trip to Rothenburg or visit a family-owned farm for a home-cooked morning tea. The ship passes through the Main-Danube Canal that connects the Black Sea and the North Sea. In Vienna, there's a cocktail party and private orchestra recital or city tour before heading to Budapest for two days.

Nicko Cruises

This German company offers 30 years of experience on Europe's rivers, and has a fleet of 26 river ships in addition to the expedition ship World Voyager and oceangoing Vasco Da Gama . The company's "time to discover" philosophy focuses on intensive travel experiences, shore excursions, and varied culinary offerings.

The eight-day "Traveling on the Elbe and Havel" cruise covers Germany's north on rivers and canals aboard the Frederick Chopin . Starting in Berlin, the cruise continues to Potsdam for a guided walking tour. A guided tour takes guests through Autostadt Wolfsburg, a park dedicated to the history of the automobile. In Hamburg, there's a city tour and harbor cruise before the cruise continues to the Baltic resort, Laboe, and ends in Kiel.

Teeming River Cruises

Founded in 2017 with the goal of making European river cruises more economical and personalized, family-owned American company Teeming River Cruises developed a different river cruise model. Instead of pre-programmed group activities, guests create their own unique experiences with a complimentary city tour app for each destination. All-inclusive plans and group tours are not part of Teeming's itineraries.

Their cruise in northern Italy along the Po River, "From the Canals of Venice to Renaissance-infused Mantua," is a seven-day excursion starting in Venice where guests can discover St. Mark's Square and Doge's Palace. In partnership with CroisiEurope aboard the MS Michelangelo , the ship heads west to Vicenza and then on to Chioggia. Day four is spent in Verona, with its ancient amphitheater and Giusti Gardens. The next days are spent in Cremona and Mantua with disembarkation and a coach trip back to Venice.

Belmond - Afloat in France

Belmond has another way to cruise some of Europe's rivers — on luxury barges with private chefs and excursions like truffle hunting, hot air ballooning, canoeing, and wine tasting. Seven barges make up Afloat in France , each with its own style and size. The elegant barges cruise the waterways of Burgundy, Provence, Alsace, Champagne, Languedoc, and Franche-Comté from April to October.

On the Belmond Napoleon , guests cruise the River Saône past châteaux, rural river towns, and expansive vineyards. Stops at Montmerle, Mâcon, and Tournus offer opportunities for wine tasting and exploring a Benedictine abbey. There's a walking tour of Chalon-Sur-Sâone and time to browse through St. Jean de Losne.

where do river cruises go

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Planning a River Cruise: 7 Mistakes You Think You’re Too Smart to Make

where do river cruises go

Contemplating a river trip in Europe? A river cruise is a scenic and effortless way to travel, for sure, but take heed: Many of the rules that apply when choosing a hotel or a big ocean cruise ship don’t carry over to river boats. To get the best value for your dollar, here are seven things to keep in mind.

Mistake No. 1: Splurging on a balcony

Panoramic view from Avalon Alegria in Suite 2.

The Panorama Suite on Avalon’s river vessels is one of the nicest afloat. Instead of a small balcony, its French verandah, which extends to the width of the room, makes your whole stateroom feel like a balcony. Photo via Avalon. 

You’d probably assume a balcony is critical—for the view, the fresh air, the photo ops, the extra space, the privacy. A balcony is a big plus at a resort and on a huge ocean ship, but on river boats it can actually be a drawback: River ships have a width limit (so that they can fit through locks), which means that cabins can only be so wide, which in turn means that a balcony takes away from your interior room space. If it’s chilly or raining—as it sometimes is—you’ll value the interior room space more than the balcony. Also, a balcony lets you see only one side of a river, whereas elsewhere on the ship you can see both sides at once. And who wants to miss half a river?

This is why many savvy river cruisers opt for a “French balcony” instead of an “outside balcony.” A French balcony is a glass door or wall-to-wall window that opens to give you fresh air and the feel of a veranda, minus the outside floor, tables, and chairs. The best such pseudo-balcony I’ve seen is on Avalon Waterways’ newer ships. The outside wall of the cabin is floor-to-ceiling glass that stretches 11 feet wide and slides open 7 feet wide. Basically, it turns your whole room into a veranda.

Avalon calls these cabins “Panorama Suites.” Technically, they’re not actually suites: Each is one room that measures 200 square feet and has a comfy sitting area (a chair, a loveseat, and a table) overlooking the water. The bed faces the view—a bed position that is unusual for river ships and is a nice touch, as the view is the first thing you see when you wake in the morning (unless you’ve drawn the curtains, you’re in a lock, or another ship is parked alongside you—which is a reason why most people do draw their curtains at night).

With cabins that transform into open-air terraces, who needs a balcony?

Mistake No. 2: Assuming that your whole itinerary is on the river

The beauty of a river cruise is that it’s a picturesque and easy way to see towns and cities along a river. Typically, the ship drops you off in town, and you can choose to walk around and explore on your own (always my preference) or take a walking tour or bus tour with a group from the ship. Sometimes passengers are bussed to sights an hour or two (or more) away from the river. And sometimes those bus tours can mean missing whole stretches of the river. On the Seine, for instance, opting for the bus tour to Honfleur or Normandy’s WW2 landing beaches could mean missing a picturesque stretch of the river because the bus picks you up at one port and drops you off at the next. (Which is why, on one cruise, I opted not to go to Honfleur or the landing beaches.)

where do river cruises go

One of the most scenic spots on the Seine River is the approach to the village of Les Andelys. Photo by Carolyn Spencer Brown

So find out whether the cruise line and itinerary you’re considering may force you to choose between the river itself and the sights away from it—and whether those stretches of river are not-to-be-missed picturesque or okay-to-miss industrial. A good cruise director will answer these questions honestly and accurately, and Google Earth can help too. If the cruise director can’t tell you which stretches of the river are most interesting, do what I do—even though technically it’s not allowed: Knock on the wheelhouse door, make friends with the captain, and ask them (at a moment when they’re not busy steering around barges or into locks). Captains always know.

Don’t bother spending precious time attempting to find out where your ship will dock in each town. We choose hotels for their location, of course—so it’s understandable that you’d want to know where a ship will be situated—but, for the most part, they all dock in the same spot. Some ships might have better real estate in certain cities. In Budapest, for instance, Viking’s spot is right under the Chain Bridge . As a general rule, though, all the ships park in pretty much the same area—and, to some degree, where they park can’t be known far ahead anyway. In Passau aboard Viking, we docked in one spot and then later the ship moved several slips downriver.

Mistake No. 3: Insisting that your ship have a gym and a pool

I want these in a hotel or on a giant cruise ship as much as the next person, but the fact is, on river ships, you rarely see anyone in the gym (which is tiny and only minimally equipped) or the pool (which is equally tiny except on some Uniworld ships that have gorgeous indoor pools and some AmaWaterways ships that have a relatively spacious pool with a swim-up bar). There just isn’t enough time to use the gym or pool, as you’re off the ship exploring all day. And if you’re not off the ship, chances are either it’s nighttime or you’re gliding down a significant stretch of river that you won’t want to miss.

The pool in the AmaSonata river ship.

AmaWaterways is one of the few river lines that have pools on the top decks of its ships. Photo by Wendy Perrin

Cruise-line execs keep gyms and pools on ships as marketing tools to get travelers to choose their ship, but the reality is that you likely won’t end up using either. That’s because there are so many opportunities to get exercise off the ship: Some lines carry bicycles and offer cycling tours. Others lend out Nordic walking sticks for ambitious strolling and hiking. And check with your ship’s cruise manager; oftentimes they’ll know where in port you can go to swim or get a massage at a resort or day spa.

Mistake No. 4: Choosing a ship based on the number of passengers Most people I know, when choosing a hotel or an oceangoing cruise ship, veer away from anything too huge. But on Europe’s rivers there are pretty much only two sizes of cruise ship: 110-meter vessels (which hold about 128 passengers each) and 135-meter vessels (which hold about 166 passengers each). Viking’s longships squeeze 190 passengers onto a 135-meter ship, which competing cruise lines say make it feel crowded. Honestly, though, I sailed on a 190-passenger Viking ship and, other than chairs spaced close together in the observation lounge and trouble finding seats for my party of four at dinner one night, the ship didn’t feel crowded to me. (Then again, I grew up in Manhattan, so my definition of “crowded” may differ from yours.) Nor did I experience less personal service on Viking, partly because Viking (unlike other river cruise lines) has a dedicated concierge who provides such service.

where do river cruises go

Most ships that ply the Danube and Rhine are similarly laid out (with a few exceptions), so choose your cruise based on the destinations, not the ship itself. Photo via Viking .

There is an exception to this rule. AmaWaterways designed its AmaMagna , which debuted in 2019, to be almost double the width of the standard riverboat on the Danube. The plus? It’s got more amenities, such as more spacious suites, four different restaurants, a sundeck pool and whirlpool, a juice bar, two massage rooms as part of a zen wellness studio and, new this year, a pickleball court. The minus? This ship, due to its size, is limited to a stretch of ports along the Danube that don’t involve locks. Still, it can travel from Germany through Austria, Slovakia, Hungary and Romania, so the options aren’t severely limited.

If I were you, instead of choosing among river ships based on the number of passengers, I’d choose based on factors that I think will affect your trip more—namely, itinerary, river landscape, cabin type, and like-minded fellow passengers.

Mistake No. 5: Booking the least expensive cabin In a hotel it can make sense: Choose the lowest-category room at a fabulous property, so you can take advantage of everything the hotel offers, and use the room just for sleeping. On a river cruise, though, the least expensive cabin can be really tight—170 square feet or less—with small windows that don’t open. It’s usually worth the several hundred dollars more to get a French balcony. The aforementioned Avalon “Panorama Suite” cabins cost about $100 more per person per day than the ship’s lowest-category rooms. They’re worth it.

View of the Avalon Alegria Deluxe Stateroom.

On river vessels, the cheapest staterooms are on the lowest deck and though they have windows, there’s not much of a view (this one is on an Avalon riverboat).

Mistake No. 6: Assuming you can dine on your own In a hotel or on a megaship, it’s easy to stick to yourselves, but on a river ship, there’s a lot of forced socializing. Every night there’s a four-course (at least), two-hour (at least) dinner where you’re seated at tables with other passengers, some of whom you just met. I’ve made some great friends at these chance meetings, but I’ve also been stuck with some louts. Viking is the only river line I have traveled on that provides an alternative venue where you can grab a half-hour dinner on your own if you just don’t feel like making chit-chat with strangers.

where do river cruises go

Viking’s Aquavit Terrace offers a casual dining alternative to its main restaurants. Photo via Viking.

AmaWaterways offers some options—typically a light breakfast or lunch option is available to grab and go from its lounges. And its new ship, AmaMagna , which is twice the size of traditional river boats, offers more dining options than any other vessel on the Danube.

Mistake No. 7: Assuming there’s room service Room service is a given in hotels, and it’s usually free on ocean cruise ships, but on river ships it barely exists. On certain ships, in certain cabins, you can get a room-service breakfast. Avalon offers a complimentary continental breakfast option. Room service for lunch or dinner is rare, but Avalon does offer (again, complimentary) an option based on the day’s menus. You do have to order from the front desk, but the food will arrive at your stateroom.

On most ships, early morning coffee and continental breakfast are available in the observation lounge starting at about 6 a.m.

Don’t expect to find an in-room coffee machine in most river-ship cabins. You really don’t need one, though: Every vessel I’ve sailed on has a fancy coffee machine mid-ship (either off the lobby or in the observation lounge) that whips up espressos, cappuccinos, and machiattos, plus there’s hot chocolate, an assortment of teas, and snacks such as cookies and fruit. In fact, on the Avalon Tapestry II , there are two such coffee set-ups—one in the front lounge, one in the back lounge. Which means coffee is never more than 15 seconds away.

Finally, one mistake you are too smart to make: Assuming the Wi-Fi will work at all times The good news: The Wi-Fi on river ships is free. The bad news: It comes and goes, depending on whether you’re in a lock or on a remote stretch of the river or the other passengers are sucking up all the bandwidth. Where you’ll have Wi-Fi and where you won’t is unpredictable—and none of the river lines are better or worse at providing it—so just know that, generally speaking, your best windows of connectivity are when you’re not in a lock and other passengers are off the ship or have gone to sleep. Know that coffee shops in towns along the way offer better and free Wi-Fi. Another option is to bring a portable modem that connects with systems on land. You can also pre-purchase international packages via your Wi-Fi provider that enable you to use your phone as a modem.

Also know that nobody requires more frequent Wi-Fi than I do, and a river ship is actually one of the best working environments I know: You can sit at your laptop for hours yet have an ever-changing view.

START PLANNING A RIVER CRUISE

This article was updated and fact-checked in March 2023. It was originally published in 2015.

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20 Comments

The biggest mistake might be thinking you will actually get the cruise you paid for! Read reviews, contracts and posts on the Better Business Bureau prior to making any reservation! They have the right to completely change your entire cruise, including location of embarkation, stops and location of disembarkation, and can make these changes with almost no notification. And you are on your own to attempt to rearrange your flights to accommodate these changes, perhaps at great added expense to you. And if you do not want the completely different cruise, you may get a travel voucher if you are lucky, but only for the amount you paid, perhaps over a year in advance, so does not even cover the cost of a replacement cruise. They want thousands of additional dollars to book the exact same cruise today. It’s like extortion. Pay us $4000 more for the same cruise or lose the $6000 you already paid! Buyer beware!!!!

Hi, Denise, Carolyn here. You make a point and I’ll add that this is one of the reasons we really recommend that you book with a trusted travel expert who has already read between the lines and can advise you.

We are interested primarily in North American or Canadian river cruises. We have cruised and done European rivers on Viking and appreciate that level of service and luxury. One of the two of us is walking disabled and uses a walker and or wheelchair if a wheelchair is made available for guest use. And please, how may I contact a river cruise travel agent for our aforementioned areas…Tom Baker agency as mentioned above. Thank you very much.

The best way to contact Tom Baker is via my Start A Trip questionnaire for him. Click here: https://www.wendyperrin.com/contact/tom-baker/ That way, you’ll get the priority response and WOW benefits outlined here: https://www.wendyperrin.com/plan-trip-faq/

What can you tell me about the river cruise itinerary in Portugal? We have done several barge and river cruises, but this would be a new river itinerary for us. As we are in our 90’’s, we would be mostly staying aboard, not doing shore excursions, so it must be a scenic trip. Avalon sounds great, but not sure they are doing them Douro River.

Thanks for the great question. To make sure Wendy sees it, please click over to the Ask Wendy page and submit it via the form there. That way it will go right to her inbox.

Thinking of adding a 2 night stay in Vienna to a 7 day river cruise on Danube. Would it be better to just do a longer cruise or is the “land” stay worth the disembarking and going on our own? How much time will we actually have with a “2 day” land tour.

Do your ships accommodate a party of three in a room

Sonja, river-ship cabins are for two people each. If you have a party of three, you may need to book two cabins. On some sailings, some cruise lines will charge you the price for four people, even though you’ve got only three people. On other sailings, a cruise line might charge a “single supplement” to a solo traveler who is occupying a cabin for two: that might mean paying 150% of the per-person cruise fare. On certain sailings, some cruise lines waive that single supplement. If you click to Ask Wendy (click on https://www.wendyperrin.com/ask-wendy-question/ ) and answer the questions there, I can recommend a river-cruise trip-planning specialist who can pinpoint for you which specific cruise lines and sailings will deliver the best value to a three-person group.

Great advice, especially about the French Balcony vs. a true balcony. Hoping to take my first river cruise in 2019.

Hi Wendy – I’m just beginning to research European river cruising, and came upon your very informative site – thanks for posting this useful information! I’m a bit confused, though, on what you wrote about river boats all fitting the same size parameters (110 & 135 meters). I’ve been looking at some of the river boats featured on the “Barge Lady Cruises” travel site, and all of them are much smaller, holding 8 – 20 guests. What am I missing? Thanks!

Chris, the vessels that carry 8 to 20 passengers are barges that ply canals, whereas the vessels that carry 120 to 190 passengers are ships that ply rivers. This article will give you a sense of how barge cruises differ from river cruises: https://www.wendyperrin.com/canal-barging-the-cruise-experience-youve-been-missing-out-on/ . If you’re wondering which is best for your particular trip goals and needs, feel free to ask me over at Ask Wendy: https://www.wendyperrin.com/ask-wendy-question/

Our first time river cruise is coming up , Romantic Danube from Nuremberg to Budapest. we have or are going to book a veranda suite A on long ship ALTA.. Has anyone done this cruise before, any advise or comments?

Is a river cruise suitable for passengers who are unsteady on there feet, are the cabins quite @ night when on the move. I’ve never been on a river cruise, so want to have a “good cabin” on a good deck. There are two of us travelling together & we are in our 80’s. We had thought of the Rhine, can you suggest which company to use? Thank you for your attention.

Hi Barbara, A passenger on river cruises feels very little motion; there is certainly no rocking back and forth. And, yes, the cabins are quiet at night. But I need a lot more information about your trip goals and interests and needs in order to recommend the right Rhine river experience for you. I suggest that you read Which River Ship Should You Choose? Here Are the Key Differences . I also suggest that you reach out to river cruise specialist Tom Baker for savvy river-cruise guidance and to book your trip; use this trip request form so that he knows that Wendy sent you and you get VIP treatment and my trip monitoring. Best, Wendy

Hi Wendy, Your article “Planning a River Cruise: 7 Mistakes You Think You’re Too Smart to Make” was great! Can you answer one more question about sleeping on long ships? My husband has been on a long ship and did not have any seasickness as it was a quiet ride. How is sleeping at night on the ships? Is there a lot of rocking? Thanks in advance for your assistance! Susan

Susan, there’s usually no rocking. I don’t recall ever feeling any rocking motion when sleeping on a river ship. You may go through locks at night–which means the ship will move up and down–but the movement isn’t very noticeable. You might wake up with your ship smack alongside another ship (it’s common for two or three ships to “raft” together at docks), in which case you might open your window curtain in the morning and be staring into someone’s cabin on another ship. But rocking? That’s not a problem.

Hi Wendy, I have enjoyed reading all of your travel advice on your new site. Thanks! Can you give me your take on River Barges? Our family of 12 adults is planning a river cruise in France and I have done some research on the barges. I wondered if booking the entire barge would be right for our family rather than a typical river cruise. We enjoy good food, wine, travel and much needed time together. However, we do enjoy some luxuries as well. Any suggestions? Thanks so much, Debbie

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Italy River Cruises

The magic of Italy extends all the way to the rivers of this beautiful country, creating the perfect vantage point for splendour. Choose from a number of river cruise deals that match all budgets and holiday preferences, while also visiting differing ports of call. Find here the best 7 day Italy travel itineraries .

42 river cruises through Italy with 68 reviews

Venetian Treasures (port-to-port cruise) (8 destinations) Tour

  • River Cruise

Venetian Treasures (port-to-port cruise) (8 destinations)

We had a great time. Everyone was very helpful

MIlan, Venice & the Jewels of Veneto (2024) (Milan to Venice, 2024) Tour

MIlan, Venice & the Jewels of Veneto (2024) (Milan to Venice, 2024)

From the Canals of Venice to Renaissance-infused Mantua Tour

From the Canals of Venice to Renaissance-infused Mantua

Milan, Venice & the Jewels of Veneto (2025) (Milan to Venice, 2025) Tour

  • Sightseeing

Milan, Venice & the Jewels of Veneto (2025) (Milan to Venice, 2025)

From Renaissance-infused Mantua to the Canals of Venice Tour

From Renaissance-infused Mantua to the Canals of Venice

From the Canals of Venice to Renaissance-infused Mantua & Milan and Lake Como Extended Stay (port-to-port cruise) Tour

From the Canals of Venice to Renaissance-infused Mantua & Milan and Lake Como Extended Stay (port-to-port cruise)

Timeless Venice (port-to-port package) Tour

  • Wine tasting

Timeless Venice (port-to-port package)

From Venice to Mantua Tour

From Venice to Mantua

Venetian Artwork (port-to-port package) Tour

Venetian Artwork (port-to-port package)

Christmas in Venice (port-to-port cruise) Tour

  • Ocean Cruise
  • Christmas & New Year

Christmas in Venice (port-to-port cruise)

Christmas in Venice Tour

Christmas in Venice

Venice Carnival (port-to-port cruise) Tour

Venice Carnival (port-to-port cruise)

New Year in Venice (port-to-port cruise) Tour

New Year in Venice (port-to-port cruise)

New Year in Venice Tour

New Year in Venice

La Dolce Vita along the Italian coastline (port-to-port package) Tour

La Dolce Vita along the Italian coastline (port-to-port package)

River cruises in italy reviews.

Excellent service from all of the Croisi crew. First class food. Very relaxing. Would definitely cruise with CroisiEurope again and would book with Tour Radar.

Regions in Italy

  • Northern Italy (40)
  • Veneto (30)
  • Prosecco (30)

Popular Cruise Ships

  • MS Michelangelo from CroisiEurope River Cruises
  • S.S. La Venezia from Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection
  • S.S. La Venezia(duplicate) from Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection
  • MS Mistral from CroisiEurope River Cruises
  • River Countess from Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection
  • MS Camargue II from CroisiEurope River Cruises
  • MS Loire Princesse from CroisiEurope River Cruises
  • MV La Belle des Océans from CroisiEurope River Cruises
  • MS Monet from CroisiEurope River Cruises

Travel Styles

  • 10 Best River Cruise Companies (with Reviews)
  • Italy Travel Guide | All You Need to Know
  • Itinerary Ideas for 10 Days in Italy, 2022-2023
  • Best 7 Day Italy Itineraries 2024/2025 (with Reviews)
  • Discover the Best Italy Vacation Packages 2024/2025
  • What is the best time to visit Italy in 2024/2025?

International Versions

  • Deutsch: Flusskreuzfahrt Italien
  • Français: Italie : Croisières fluviales
  • Español: Crucero fluvial Circuitos en Italia
  • Nederlands: Riviercruise Rondreizen in Italië

where do river cruises go

I Planned a River Cruise With 48 of My Closest Friends and Family — Here’s How You Can, Too

Here's how I pulled off the trip of a lifetime.

There’s nothing my husband and I love more than traveling, but doing so with family and friends — especially if they’re hesitant travelers or we’re walking them through their first trip to Europe — makes it all the more meaningful for us.

So, as we looked ahead to December 2023 — we'd both be turning 30 and nearing 10 years married — we began to brainstorm epic ways to celebrate.

We thought back to one of our most treasured travel experiences — our first river cruise — on the (unfortunately) now-defunct U River Cruises, and knew this was the perfect way to get as many of our loved ones as possible on board for a week-long adventure in Europe (with minimal logistical headaches and day-to-day planning required on our part).

Sure, I’m a travel writer, but I make no claims as a group trip specialist, and a river cruise has daily itineraries, plus meals, excursions, and fun programming built in. With a mostly U.S.-based group, we knew Europe was the right destination, too: Access is easy, we’ve been many times, and it’s a comfortable first major trip abroad for even the most timid travelers.

As we began to plan Aaron and Skye’s Epic 30th Birthday Bash River Cruise Extravaganza, I scoured CruiseMapper and reviewed charter and group booking options from Emerald Cruises, Lüftner, Avalon Waterways, Uniworld, Tauck, Viking, Amadeus, and more; I compared costs, dates, itineraries, availability, and occupancy of various ships, routes, and companies. 

After much deliberation, we went with AmaWaterways , which turned out to be first in the long line of things that went right.

The Details

AmaWaterways, a family-owned river cruise company with European roots, offered a part-charter option on its newest ship at the best price and at the most convenient time: the week between Christmas and New Year’s.

We spent Dec. 28, 2023, through Jan. 4, 2024 aboard the AmaSiena , sailing the Rhine River from Basel, Switzerland, to Amsterdam, Netherlands (one of our all-time favorite cities, an added bonus), on an itinerary known as the Enchanting Rhine .

The Difference Between a Full Charter, Part Charter, and Group Booking

With AmaWaterways, a part charter is similar to a group booking, but you’re obligated to a minimum. Once you sign, you “own” that number of cabins and are responsible for filling them, but can switch names and even cabin types (depending on availability) throughout the process, if needed. The public can also book cabins on a partly chartered ship.

A full charter means reserving the entire ship for your group’s private use; this is more expensive, unless you have a group big enough to fill every cabin and can divide the costs accordingly.

We went with a part-charter option for 10 cabins initially, but ended up with 28 filled. All the bookings had to go through me — a welcome excuse to let my extreme attention to detail be put to good use.

We chose our cruise because the time frame, while a busy period to travel, is also when most people are already off work (or have a lighter-than-usual load). Plus, we’d get to ring in a new year together, and a holiday or special occasion makes a trip like this even easier to justify. Our priority was making the trip as accessible as possible to as many of our loved ones as possible.

Another perk? This route comfortably hit four countries (Switzerland, Germany, France, and the Netherlands) in a week, checking off lots of countries for everyone.

All 48 members of our crew had as epic of a time as we did — we’re already discussing the second installment of what will perhaps become an annual tradition — and while our group consisted of relatives and friends both old and new, by the end, we all felt like family.

Having almost everyone I love sleeping within 100 feet of me for a week, walking off the ship each morning to explore new countries together, celebrating a massive joint birthday party, watching cousins mingle with best friends mingle with family friends mingle with work partners, seeing New Year’s Eve fireworks erupt in a 360-degree panorama from the ship’s top deck, and partying until the sun rose on New Year’s day — a life highlight, indeed.

How to Plan Your Own River Cruise Group Trip

Want to recreate this memorable adventure in your own way? Below are some tips for helping your trip go off without a hitch.

Don’t poll.

Yes, I said it: Don’t ask for opinions. Everyone’s going to have a different perspective and you’ll overwhelm yourself trying to cater to them all. There’s no way you can please everyone with the perfect itinerary and dates, so do your best to put forth a reasonable plan, get buy-in from a few MVPs, and let go of the rest. 

Create a website.

Unless you want to continually email or text the same information again and again, collect all the relevant links, plans, details, and thoughts in one easy-to-reference receptacle, like a website. Think of it as a wedding website, but for your group trip. Websites are easy to create with Wix, and you can include pages with travel tips, flight recommendations, packing advice , checklists, timelines, and more. You can also use Wix to send email newsletters when you need to blast information to everyone.

Organize, organize, organize.

When it comes to your role as acting-travel-agent-in-chief, Google Drive is your friend. I created a meticulously organized Google Drive, where I tracked everything in documents, sheets, and more, and used Google Forms for further planning.

Check your passport.

You know what’s not fun? Being on the hook for a traveler who can’t find their passport or neglected to check its expiration date .

As guests commit and book, have them send you their passport expiration date so that they locate their passport with plenty of time before the trip and you can ensure it’s still valid. Remember, some countries require six months of validity on a passport.

Encourage early arrivals.

Flying in before your adventure officially begins is a good way to spend extra quality time together, get the mingling started, and ward off any potential travel snafus and delays. You can count on something going wrong with this many moving parts, but by cushioning the beginning of your trip in case of emergency, you’ll get peace of mind and some padding where it counts. 

As the hosts, we arrived in Europe eight days before embarking on our river cruise, opting for a brief stay in Zürich followed by a snowboarding trip in Zermatt to celebrate Christmas and my husband’s birthday. We then took the train to Basel (as a group of seven, after convincing friends to join!).

Create a group chat.

As your adventure nears, a group chat is a great way to get everyone on the same page, make announcements, and begin intros. WhatsApp, Telegram, and Slack are all good options. Just be prepared for the conversation to continue long after the trip — the love is still going strong in ours.

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Read the original article on Travel & Leisure .

emicristea/Travel + Leisure

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