Imagine gliding along the majestic Danube or the romantic Rhine, waking up to a new charming European town each day, and enjoying delicious meals with stunning views – all without the hassle of repacking your suitcase. That’s the magic of a European river cruise!
River cruising is an increasingly popular way to explore Europe, especially for multi-generational families and groups with diverse interests. Here’s why:
1. Unpack Once, Explore Many:
Say goodbye to the constant packing and unpacking of a land-based vacation. With a river cruise, you unpack once and settle into your comfortable stateroom, your floating hotel, as you journey through multiple countries and picturesque towns. Imagine exploring iconic cities like Vienna and Budapest along the Danube or discovering gems like Basel, Amsterdam, and Heidelberg along the Rhine, all without having to repack every few days!
2. Diverse Shore Excursions for Everyone:
At each port of call, a variety of included and optional shore excursions cater to different interests and activity levels. Choose from cultural city tours, historical walking tours, hands-on cooking classes, active bike rides, scenic hikes, and more. There’s something for everyone in your group to enjoy!
3. Delicious Cuisine and Onboard Activities:
Savor delicious meals onboard, often featuring locally sourced ingredients and regional specialties. Enjoy live entertainment, relax in the lounge, or soak up the views from the sundeck. River cruises offer a relaxed and enriching experience.
4. Comfort and Convenience:
Many river cruise lines offer spacious staterooms with stunning views. Premium lines like Avalon Waterways even feature floor-to-ceiling French balconies, bringing the outdoors in. Plus, enjoy smooth sailing on calm European rivers, perfect for those prone to seasickness.
5. Extend Your Adventure:
Easily combine your river cruise with a pre- or post-cruise land tour to explore a specific region in more depth. This allows you to customize your trip and experience the best of both worlds!
Planning Your River Cruise:
- Book early for better options: River cruises typically book up 9-12 months in advance due to limited capacity (approximately 150 passengers per ship). Secure your preferred stateroom type and location by booking early, and take advantage of early booking promotions.
- Christmas Market Cruises: These popular sailings book up even faster, often a year in advance.
Who are river cruises for?
River cruises are ideal for families with older children (minimum age varies by cruise line; e.g. Avalon Waterways is 8 years old) and multi-generational groups seeking a comfortable, enriching, and hassle-free way to explore Europe’s charming towns and scenic waterways.
Check out our river cruising guide to learn more on what to expect once you’re ready to set sail!
Ready to embark on a river adventure? Contact us today, and let us help you plan the perfect European river cruise for your family!