Top 7 European Rivers to Cruise

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I often rave about the unique experiences on European River Cruises. You can explore the most charming villages as you sail along in your luxury boutique hotel. Do you wonder which river to choose and what sets them apart?

Here are seven of the most popular European rivers for cruising and what you will experience on each river.

Budapest, Hungary

THE DANUBE RIVER

Europe's second-longest river curves through 10 countries from Germany to Ukraine before flowing into the Black Sea. Danube itineraries vary depending on which part of the river you travel, but common ports include Passau, a medieval city where three rivers meet; Vienna, a great capital of music and coffee culture; and Budapest, with its wonderful thermal baths. The Danube is also a prime river for Christmas Market cruising during the holiday season.

Cologne, Germany

THE RHINE RIVER

The Rhine flows from Switzerland through Germany and the Netherlands to the North Sea, dotted with castle after castle along the riverbanks. Typical ports include Strasbourg, with its mix of French and German cultures; Cologne, dominated by its gothic Cathedral; and Basel, known for the highest concentration of museums in Switzerland. Christmas Market cruises are also popular along the Rhine.

THE DOURO RIVER

Linking Spain and Portugal, this river is best known for the winemaking region of the Douro River Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. But three other UNESCO sites lie along the Douro river cruise route: the old city of Salamanca, Spain, the prehistoric rock-art sites in Portugal's Côa Valley, and the historic center of Porto.

THE RHÔNE RIVER

Rhône river cruises are about exploring southern France's food, wine, and culture. Ports commonly include Tarascon, where Van Gogh painted his Sunflowers; Lyon, the culinary capital of France with its secret passageways and ancient Roman theater; and the walled city of Avignon.

THE SEINE RIVER

As you board your ship in Paris, there are views of the Eiffel Tower nearby. The Seine river flows through Paris, outside the city, to the English Channel. Ports typically include Giverny, where you can visit the home and gardens of Claude Monet, and the villages along the NORMANDY Coast, where you can tour the historic Normandy beaches and cemeteries.

THE MAIN RIVER

A tributary of the Rhine, the Main River changed European river cruising when it was canalized in 1992 to connect the Rhine with the Danube. Flowing through central Germany, the Main River showcases medieval villages and castles in Bavaria, Baden-Württemberg, and Hesse. Ports may include Frankfort, a bustling metropolis; Würzburg, with its UNESCO-designated Baroque palace and gardens; and Bamberg, with its UNESCO-designated and well-preserved medieval old town.

Saint-Émilion, France

THE DORDOGNE & GARONNE RIVERS

The two short waterways of Dordogne and Garonne flow through France's Bordeaux region, making it the perfect river for wine enthusiasts. Common ports include Blaye, with a lovely coastal road; Libourne, with charming markets; and Saint-Émilion, with its ethereal monolithic church. From the ship, watch for the carrelets (fishing huts on stilts), which line the riverbanks.