Europe River Cruises
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10 best European river cruises
Compiled by
NadineEurope travel expert at TourRadar
- From the Blue Danube to the Black Sea (port-to-port cruise)
- Danube Serenade: Romantic Journey from Turnu Magurele (Bucharest) to Vienna, MS Fidelio
- From the Black Sea to the Blue Danube (port-to-port cruise)
- Grand Danube Cruise 2025 Start Giurgiu, End Vilshofen
- Beautiful Blue Danube and Danube Delta (Passau - Passau) (21 destinations)
- Magnificent Europe with Paris Budapest → Paris (2025)
- Magnificent Europe with Paris Paris → Budapest (2025)
- Prague & Splendours of Europe
- Portraits of Eastern Europe (2025) (Bucharest to Prague, 2025)
- Portraits of Eastern Europe (2025) (Bucharest to Prague, 2025)
From the Blue Danube to the Black Sea (port-to-port cruise)
2 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Food excellent. Staff were awesome.”
David, traveled in April
MS L'Europe sails from Vienna's Schönbrunn Palace to Romania's Black Sea coast. The route includes the Iron Gates gorge, Hungarian plains, and traditional entertainment in Belgrade while cruising in comfort.
Duration 12 days Destinations Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Serbia, Bulgaria, Romania Age Range up to 99 year olds Operator CroisiEurope River Cruises From
- NZ$4,678
Danube Serenade: Romantic Journey from Turnu Magurele (Bucharest) to Vienna, MS Fidelio
13 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The ship MS Fidelio was excellent and the crew and service offered second to none. Food was plentiful and the quality impressive.”
Samuel, traveled in June
MS Fidelio sails Europe's waterways, revealing UNESCO sites like Budapest's Buda Castle District. The itinerary features Iron Gates gorge, Belgrade's Kalemegdan Fortress, and Vienna's Hofburg Palace. Full board dining and live entertainment enhance the journey.
Duration 11 days Destinations Romania, Bulgaria, Serbia, Croatia, Hungary, Slovakia, Austria Age Range up to 105 year olds Operated in English, German, Spanish Operator Crucemundo From $3,903
20% Off- NZ$3,123+$264 upfront costsYou save $780
From the Black Sea to the Blue Danube (port-to-port cruise)
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“The food was excellent. We enjoyed our trip and would use Croisi again.”
Karyn, traveled in May
MS L'Europe or MS Vivaldi connect 8 countries with panoramic dining rooms and lounges. The Danube-Black Sea Canal, dramatic Iron Gates passage, and historic capitals highlight the route from Romania to Austria, complemented by French cuisine, included drinks, and entertainment.
Duration 12 days Destinations Romania, Bulgaria, Serbia, Hungary, Slovakia, Austria Age Range up to 99 year olds Operator CroisiEurope River Cruises From
20% Off- NZ$4,678
The luxurious AmaMagna offers unprecedented space while sailing Europe's legendary waterways. The ship glides through Iron Gates gorges, UNESCO-listed Wachau Valley, and historic capitals. Passengers indulge in four distinct restaurants, a sun-deck pool, and unique Water Sports Platform during this 15-day adventure.
Duration 15 days Destinations Romania, Bulgaria, Croatia, Austria, Hungary, Slovakia, Serbia, Czech Republic, Germany Age Range up to 90 year olds Operator AmaWaterways From
20% Off- NZ$11,667+$800 upfront costs
Premium Amadeus vessels transport guests through Europe with panoramic cabins and gourmet dining. The route winds through Iron Gates Gorge, UNESCO Danube Delta, and riverside monasteries. Guided tours showcase Vienna's Imperial district and Budapest's historic center across 7 countries.
Duration 16 days Destinations Germany, Austria, Hungary, Serbia, Bulgaria, Romania, Slovakia Age Range up to 99 year olds Operated in English, German Operator Lueftner Cruises From
20% Off- NZ$7,517
APT luxury ships traverse three major European rivers, stopping at UNESCO sites and historic ports. The voyage features private Vienna City Palace concerts, Amsterdam's canals, and gourmet dining with 46 included meals.
Duration 18 days Destinations Hungary, Austria, Germany, Netherlands, Belgium, France Age Range up to 99 year olds Operator APT From
20% Off- NZ$13,305
Luxury spans 15 days from Amsterdam to Budapest aboard APT ships across three rivers, visiting UNESCO sites and historic ports. Private events include Namedy Castle reception and Vienna's City Palace concert, complemented by 46 gourmet meals.
Duration 18 days Destinations France, Belgium, Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Hungary Age Range up to 99 year olds Operator APT From
20% Off- NZ$11,905
Emerald's Star-Ship boasts panoramic suites and a heated pool while sailing Europe's iconic rivers. The vessel connects three major waterways - Danube, Main, and Rhine - showcasing UNESCO sites like Cologne Cathedral with special access to Wertheim's Glass Art Museum.
Duration 18 days Destinations Czech Republic, Hungary, Slovakia, Austria, Germany, Netherlands Age Range up to 90 year olds Operator Emerald Cruises From
20% Off- NZ$19,711
The S.S. Beatrice winds through Iron Gates gorge and Wachau Valley along the Danube. Passengers marvel at Belogradchik rock formations, medieval Golubac Castle, while enjoying exclusive port access from Ruse to Regensburg in luxury riverview accommodations.
Duration 19 days Destinations Romania, Bulgaria, Serbia, Croatia, Hungary, Austria, Germany, Czech Republic Age Range 16 to 100 year olds Operator Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection From
20% Off- NZ$28,599
The legendary Danube awaits aboard S.S. Beatrice, where UNESCO sites like Iron Gates gorge and Wachau Valley unfold before you. The luxury vessel offers Savoir® Beds, gourmet dining, and historic port visits from Bucharest to Prague.
Duration 19 days Destinations Romania, Bulgaria, Serbia, Croatia, Hungary, Austria, Germany, Czech Republic Age Range up to 100 year olds Operator Uniworld Boutique River Cruise Collection From
20% Off- NZ$14,099+$766 upfront costs
European River Cruises Reviews
- Danube Serenade: Romantic Journey from Turnu Magurele (Bucharest) to Vienna, MS Fidelio
This was our first river cruise and it has ensured it won't be our last. From start to finish the ship MS Fidelio was excellent and the crew and service offered second to none. All staff were friendly and efficient without getting in the way. Food was plentiful and the quality impressive. I found the balance between onboard and ashore perfect. The number of inclusive tours was good, four in total in Belgrade, Budapest, Bratislava and Vienna and on all occasions the guides knowledgeable and entertaining.Tours available in 3 languages , English , Spanish and Dutch. Additional optional tours were also available at a price but we chose to explore ourselves. At no point did we feel pressured in to adding further tours. Most of the sailing was done at night leaving as much time as possible in the designated places to visit. The crew went out of their way to entertain the passengers. The cruise manager Augustine was very entertaining with a fantastic sense of humour, something akin to a cross between Hi-De-Hi and Borat. Price of cruise very reasonable and drinks prices on board not overly extravagant, similar to prices in the UK. I would recommend this cruise on the Danube on board the MS Fidelio to anyone. I will also mention the ease of booking through Tour Radar and the follow up communication was exceptional. Looking forward to my next foray.
- From the Blue Danube to the Black Sea (port-to-port cruise)
Crosieurope had nice food, plenty of beer and wine, very clean boat - both inside and out. Staff were very nice and helpful, always cleaning windows, carpet, etc. The administration staff were a bit at times disorganised. Sometimes they would forget to give message in English after they delivered Message in French.
- Danube Classics Vienna 2025
We had a generally good experience. Most new passengers board in Engelhartszell, but 17 passengers boarded the ship in Vienna. We boarded in Vienna and didn’t receive new passenger orientation, which includes basic ship, safety and excursion presentations. The crew was very friendly, although it was primarily a German language oriented cruise lines.
What our customers ask about Europe River Cruises
What's the difference between Rhine and Danube river cruise itineraries?
The Rhine and Danube offer distinct sailing experiences through Europe's heartland. Rhine voyages navigate through western Europe crossing Germany Switzerland France and the Netherlands. Passengers explore Amsterdam's water-laced streets Cologne's towering cathedral and the storied Rhine Gorge. Danube journeys wind through central and eastern Europe including Austria Hungary Slovakia and sometimes extend to Bulgaria and Romania. The route connects major capitals like Vienna Budapest and Bratislava. As one TourRadar traveler noted: "On this Danube cruise we have seen 7 different countries from impressive capitals like Vienna and Budapest to charming small towns. Highly recommended."
What types of cabin options are available on European river cruise ships?
Modern river vessels offer accommodations that range from practical to luxurious. Ships like AmaWaterways' AmaMagna feature spacious suites (300-710 sq ft) with dedicated living spaces and wall-to-wall windows. Standard staterooms (160-235 sq ft) come equipped with French or twin balconies while lower deck rooms have fixed windows. Upper Violin Deck cabins provide premium views and Piano Deck rooms offer budget-friendly options. A TourRadar traveler shared: "Our Panorama Suite on the Violin Deck of the AmaLea had twin balconies and floor-to-ceiling windows - the views of passing castles and villages were incredible."
Which European river cruise lines offer the best value for money?
The value spectrum spans from comfortable to ultra-luxury experiences. Crucemundo's fleet including the MS Crucevita offers 8-day voyages starting at USD 1808 with comprehensive inclusions. Premium operators like AmaWaterways set sail on vessels such as AmaMagna with rates beginning at USD 4298. According to a TourRadar traveler: "Great value and well organised. The meals were excellent and the crew was wonderful - worth every single cent."
What are the best times of year to take a Europe river cruise?
European river cruise season peaks from April through October. Spring brings Amsterdam's tulip displays and pleasant temperatures in Vienna and Budapest. Summer allows for extended daylight hours perfect for exploring landmarks like Melk Abbey and Rothenburg. Fall cruises draw praise for moderate weather and colorful landscapes particularly along the Danube. One A-ROSA FLORA passenger noted: "The autumn colors along the river were spectacular and the weather was perfect for exploring ports."
How accessible are European river cruise ships for passengers with mobility issues?
Contemporary vessels prioritize accessibility through thoughtful design. Ships like AmaMagna and MS Crucevita incorporate elevators between main decks accessible public spaces and modified cabins. The MS Crucevita features a four-person elevator connecting Main and Promenade Decks plus Sun Deck chairlift access. A TourRadar traveler observed: "The ship's layout was very accessible with good elevator service between decks though some ports required walking on uneven surfaces."
What's included in the dining experience on European river cruises?
Dining programs blend regional cuisines with international offerings. Ships typically feature main restaurants for three daily meals plus specialty venues like AmaWaterways' Chef's Table. Menus showcase local dishes accompanied by regional wines beer and soft drinks during lunch and dinner. Extra touches include afternoon tea tapas stations and formal Captain's Dinners. One Uniworld guest reported: "The food was exceptional - we enjoyed wine-paired dinners featuring local specialties like Wiener Schnitzel in Austria and goulash in Hungary."
How does transportation work between cruise ports and city centers?
Ships often dock steps from city centers providing direct access to local attractions. In Budapest vessels moor near the Chain Bridge while Vienna stops utilize the Reichsbrücke with convenient tram connections downtown. When docked further out complimentary shuttles bridge the gap. Organized excursions include transportation. As shared by a TourRadar traveler: "The ship's docking locations were incredibly convenient - we could walk right into the heart of most cities within minutes."