16 Incredible River Cruise Itineraries
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Going on a beautiful cruise is a fantastic experience; there are so many options around the world. You can choose from cruises crossing the ocean to places like the Caribbean, Asia, and Europe or cruises that pass through different rivers.
River cruises are a great choice to stay closer to land, enjoy smoother waters, and have more time to explore onshore. If you’re looking for the best river cruise destinations, keep reading as I share some top picks.
1. Western Danube – Austria and Germany
One of the best river cruises is along the western Danube. Travelers will enjoy beautiful views of Austria and Germany and plenty of chances to see historic sights, unique architecture, and calm waters.
Stops in places like Vienna and Passau enhance the romantic feel of the trip. It’s an excellent choice for anyone exploring one of Europe’s longest rivers, seeing famous landmarks, and enjoying the fantastic scenery.
2. Eastern Danube – Hungary and Serbia
The Danube River, the second longest in Europe at about 1,770 miles, is often divided into Western and Eastern routes by cruise companies. The Eastern route is ideal for travelers exploring Hungary and Serbia’s scenic towns and landscapes.
On this journey, travelers will have the chance to immerse themselves in the sights and attractions of both countries, with stops in cities like Budapest and Novi Sad.
This route is perfect for those seeking to explore less crowded destinations in less-crowded parts of Europe, where travel tends to be more affordable than in other countries like Austria and Germany.
3. Northern Rhine – Germany
The Rhine River is one of Germany’s most famous waterways, stretching about 765 miles from the Swiss Alps to the Netherlands. Due to its length and popularity, many tour companies offer Northern, Southern, and Netherlands Rhine cruises.
A Northern Rhine cruise offers a magical journey through Germany. It allows travelers to explore charming towns like Cologne and Rüdesheim. This experience is perfect for those who appreciate architecture, German cuisine, and stunning views of the Rhine Gorge, with its lush green hills and mountains.
4. Southern Rhine – France, Germany and Switzerland
The Southern Rhine is another scenic route that offers chances to travel through several countries. Having explored France, Germany, and Switzerland, I highly recommend this option for those looking to experience multiple cultures, cuisines, and attractions.
On this journey, travelers will visit adorable cities like Heidelberg, Strasbourg, and Basel. The Southern Rhine cruise offers a lovely mix of experiences with plenty of beautiful scenery. This fantastic adventure is perfect for anyone looking to check multiple countries and adventures off their bucket list through one gorgeous cruise.
5. Northern Rhine – Netherlands
A third option for Rhine River cruises focuses more on the Netherlands. Travelers can explore Amsterdam, enjoy breathtaking views of the Rhine, admire European architecture, explore stunning canals, and admire the iconic tulips and windmills that define the country.
If you want to discover large cities and quaint towns with a well-planned itinerary, a Rhine River cruise centered on the Netherlands is an excellent choice.
6. Elbe River – Czech Republic and Germany
The Elbe River flows through central Europe, passing through several countries. If you’re looking to explore central Europe, an Elbe River cruise is a fantastic choice, often focusing on destinations in the Czech Republic and Germany. Along the way, you’ll visit famous cities like Berlin and Prague.
I love this route because it lets you explore some of the world’s most renowned cities without needing multiple cars, trains, or flights. Plus, there’s a unique Christmas cruise option, where you can experience festive decorations and Christmas markets, making this romantic journey even more magical during the holiday season.
7. Rhône River – France
The Rhône River flows through Switzerland and France, but many river cruises primarily focus on the French sections. This is the perfect choice for those looking to discover more of the French countryside, savor tasty French cuisine, admire stunning architecture, and visit famous landmarks.
While various cruise options are available along the Rhône, some cities you might experience include Avignon, famous for its wine and lavender fields, and Lyon, known for its restaurants and UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Additionally, you’ll be able to explore many other delightful small towns in France worth touring. If you want to uncover more of France, add this cruise to your bucket list!
8. Seine River – France
Many people are familiar with the Seine because it flows through the world’s most romantic city, Paris. This river is a prominent feature in France, and unlike others on this list, it runs exclusively through the country. It begins near Dijon, winds through the lovely City of Lights, and empties into the English Channel.
If you want to add romance to your trip to France and explore Paris while enjoying the perks of a delightful river cruise, this should be your top choice. You’ll be treated to unbelievable views of one of the most iconic cities and have the chance to visit charming towns like Vernon and Saint-Germain-en-Laye.
Plus, you can savor delicious French cuisine along the way, accompanied by delicious wines and champagnes. What’s not to love about this experience?
9. Douro River – Portugal
The Douro River flows from Spain into Portugal, but many cruise options focus exclusively on the country’s stunning landscapes. This makes it ideal for those seeking a river cruise in warmer weather.
Many itineraries travel between Lisbon and Porto, allowing travelers to appreciate the iconic Portuguese architecture, landmarks, and tasty cuisine.
While the breathtaking scenery is my favorite part of this river cruise route, I also truly enjoy the Portuguese food and drink scene. If you choose this adventure, indulge in the delicious wines and petiscos, similar to Spain’s tapas, during your adventure.
10. Magdalena River – Colombia
You might be surprised to find a South American river cruise on the list, but several continent-wide options exist. For those interested in exploring Colombia, this is a great choice. This stunning cruise takes you along the Magdalena River between Cartagena and Barranquilla. Along the way, you’ll experience Colombia’s beautiful architecture, historical sites, local cuisine, and more.
If you’ve wanted to explore South America but feel overwhelmed by the planning, a river cruise is the perfect solution, with transportation and a carefully curated itinerary already in place.
Colombia is a more affordable river cruise destination, so you don’t have to worry about overspending on land excursions.
11. Main River – Germany
If you haven’t noticed, Europe is home to some of the most dreamy river cruises, thanks to the many rivers that flow through its countries. The Main River in Germany is no exception. Starting in the Bavarian mountains, it winds through central Germany before merging with the Rhine.
It’s an ideal choice for travelers exploring Germany’s diverse landscapes. The journey offers a blend of mountains and historic cities like Wurzburg and Frankfurt. And, of course, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to enjoy delicious German foods like pretzels, bratwursts, and beer!
12. Amazon River – Peru
The Amazon River is one of the largest in the world. It flows through Peru and continues into Brazil before reaching the Atlantic Ocean. However, most Amazon river cruises focus on exploring the Peruvian Amazon, a terrific option for those fascinated by its beauty.
Unlike other cruises, this journey offers the chance to experience lush jungles, diverse wildlife, untouched landscapes, Indigenous cultures, and unique excursions. It is the perfect choice if you’re seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure that allows you to dive into nature.
13. Nile River – Egypt
While many exciting cruises are on this list, the Nile River cruise stood out to me because of its unique experience. What I love most about this cruise is its steeped in history and offers a chance to see some of the world’s most famous sights on land excursions.
The Nile winds through Egypt, passing iconic landmarks like the Pyramids, the Sphinx, Luxor’s Karnak Temple, and numerous other historically rich sites. While you won’t see these landmarks on the actual ship, it gives you a fantastic option to hop off and explore them on land excursions.
This river cruise is a must if you’re eager to explore desert landscapes and world-famous landmarks, experience unique culture, savor delicious food, and enjoy a warm desert climate.
14. Po River – Italy
Italy is one of my all-time favorite countries, so the idea of a river cruise through Northern Italy immediately captured my heart. The Po River begins near the Italian Alps and flows to the Adriatic Sea near Venice.
As Italy’s longest river, a cruise along this route offers a stunning journey through mountainous landscapes, historic cities, charming countryside, and endless vineyards. If you’re eager to explore Northern Italy while savoring pasta, pizza, and incredible wines, all with breathtaking views, this is the river cruise for you.
15. Mekong River – Cambodia and Vietnam
Another incredible river cruise option is along the Mekong River, which flows through Cambodia and Vietnam. It’s an ideal destination for travelers interested in more of Asia and looking to experience a rich culture, delicious cuisine, and picturesque landscapes.
Along the journey, you’ll have the chance to take land excursions to discover famous temples, such as the Khmer temple and Ta Prohm temple. This cruise offers the perfect balance between exploring Asia’s natural beauty and vibrant cities, making it a great choice for adventure seekers and culture lovers.
16. Mississippi River – United States
You might be surprised to see a U.S. river cruise on this list—I was initially surprised by its popularity, too! However, many travelers love exploring the Mississippi River, as well as its scenic landscapes and vibrant cities.
This is a phenomenal option for U.S. citizens looking for a river cruise without leaving the country. Travelers have a variety of routes to choose from, with popular stops in New Orleans, St. Louis, and Memphis, among others. It’s the perfect choice for those seeking a relaxing and romantic cruise while staying familiar with the language, culture, and cuisine.
If You Could Only Pick One, Which River Cruise Would You Choose And Why?
Let us know in the comments!
