The 3 Best River Cruises in Europe [2024]

Everyone dreams of traveling through Europe, whether it’s backpacking or staying local, but have you ever thought of exploring via river cruise? 

European river cruises are a great way to travel through a country and see multiple hot spot destinations. Unlike larger ocean cruises, river cruises are smaller, so you can enjoy a more personalized, luxurious experience aboard. Plus, you can enjoy all the superb amenities offered on a cruise ship while immersing yourself in authentic experiences and the local culture. Below are the best river cruises in Europe to check out, plus what you can expect when journeying along some of Europe’s most popular rivers. 

1. Viking River Cruises

Cruise At-a-Glance:

• Best for: Culture and history 
• AAA member benefits: Onboard credit based on number of nights:
  • $100 per person shipboard credit for all cruises 8-11 days 
  • $200 per person shipboard credit for all cruises 12 days or longer
• Unique features: Spacious ships, unique itineraries, pre and post-cruise packages and onboard entertainment
• Popular ports of call: Amsterdam, Bangkok, Cairo and New Orleans

Viking River Cruises was founded in 1997, and has since then has provided passengers with amazing river cruising experiences throughout Egypt, Asia and Europe. This award-winning river cruise company offers thoughtfully selected itineraries with luxurious onboard amenities as you cruise through the many rivers they sail on. 

Aboard the cruise ships, travelers will find immediate comfort in the spacious staterooms and will satisfy their passion for worldly culture through various destination-based lectures, music performances and cooking classes. Plus, Viking provides historic guided tours and intimate experiences in every destination. For those who want to explore more while onboard, Viking offers pre and post-cruise packages to help book your lodging and extend your stay. 

2. AmaWaterways

Cruise At-a-Glance:

• Best for: Premium luxury 
• AAA member benefits: Stateroom savings and Welcome Amenity based on the number of nights:
  • $200 per stateroom savings on cruises less than 7 nights
  • $300 per stateroom savings on cruises 7 to 11 nights
• Unique features: Free Wi-Fi, onboard fitness centers, daily shore excursions, high-end restaurants and spa and wellness services, 
• Popular ports of call: Amsterdam, Budapest and Paris

AmaWaterways is a premium luxury river cruise line and well-known for its deluxe onboard amenities and activities, including comfortable staterooms and high-end dining options. The cruise ships also include fitness centers and spa and wellness services for complete rejuvenation and relaxation. 

The cruise line runs river cruises throughout Europe, Asia and Africa. Travelers can partake in authentic shore excursions and cultural experiences at AmaWaterways’s various destination ports. AAA members can enjoy Welcome Amenities and stateroom savings across several journey lengths. Experience an exclusive luxury getaway with AmaWaters, whether it's leisurely strolling through the streets of Amsterdam or enjoying the blissful views of the Seine. 

3. Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

Cruise At-a-Glance:

• Best for: Boutique-style accommodations 
• AAA member benefits: Couples savings based on number of nights:
  • $250 per couple savings on cruises up to 13 days
  • $500 per couple savings on cruises of 14 days or more
• Unique features: All-inclusive amenities, daily excursions, unlimited wine and beer, onboard entertainment, airport transports and gourmet cuisine
• Popular ports of call: Bordeaux, Venice and Amsterdam

Since 1976, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises has provided travelers with luxurious pampering and unforgettable European experiences. Each of Uniworld’s 17 luxury ships is uniquely designed and provides the feel of staying in a luxury boutique hotel catered to adult passengers. While aboard guests can enjoy relaxing with Uniworld’s spa services, swimming pools and all-inclusive local wine and beer options. Guests can also indulge in tasting regional cuisine and participating in art auctions between stops. 

When guests disembark from the ship, they can fully immerse themselves in the culture of the villages and landmarks they visit. Uniworld’s unique local relationships allow guests to have authentic exploration of the destination. 

The Best European Rivers to Cruise 

Choosing the river for your European cruise is as crucial as selecting your ideal cruise line. Consider the destinations where you'd like to make stops and identify the countries that pique your interest the most. Below are some of the most popular European rivers to sail upon. 

Danube

The Danube River is home to four national capitals: Belgrade, Bratislava, Budapest and Vienna. Explore the rich history of these major destinations and beautiful views of the Balkan and Carpathian Mountains and Wachau Valley. Most cruises split between the Upper and Lower Danube River, as the river has much to see. 

Seine 

Most known for passing through Paris, the Seine has much to offer once you leave the city limits. Visit historic landmarks such as the villages in Normandy, the Château Gaillard castle and the medieval Rouen. Those interested in learning more about World War II can visit the Normandy beaches and American Cemetery and Memorial. 

Rhine

Those interested in visiting Eastern Europe will enjoy a river cruise on the Rhine. Explore the wonders of Germany, such as the Heidelberg Castle and the Black Forest. See the beauty of the Netherlands and visit the beautiful Keukenhof Gardens. You may also stop in Amsterdam and visit its many museums. 

Moselle

The Moselle flows through three countries: Germany, France and Luxembourg. This is a beautiful river to visit if you’re interested in sightseeing quaint villages. In France, you’ll pass by Metz and Thionville, while in Germany, you can visit Bernkastel-Kues and Trier. Explore one of the world’s smallest countries and stop by Luxembourg City along the way. 

Main 

The Main finds a home in Germany and is known for its crossing through Frankfurt. You’ll pass by many medieval villages and gothic-style castles along the route through Central Germany. You may also pass through the Main-Danube Canal and small towns such as Nuremberg and Bamberg.  

Book Your Perfect River Cruise With AAA 

With AAA Travel, booking a cruise has never been easier. Pick from one of the best river cruises in Europe highlighted above and let AAA help you book and plan your excursions throughout your trip. With an AAA Membership, you can enjoy exclusive benefits and savings to spend more on what counts—creating memories along the Seine or wherever your cruise takes you.