River Cruises
Get up close & personal with your destination on an intimate scale which never falls short on the indulgent touches. On your river cruise adventure you will enjoy efficient, attentive service along with fantastic food, comfortable accommodation and guaranteed river views - all part and parcel of the river cruise experience, where quaint towns, villages and all hidden aspects of rural life unfold before your eyes. Use our River Cruise Calendar to help find your perfect river cruise!
The rivers of the world are open to you with a host of options, from short breaks to Christmas Market getaways to longer journeys through history-rich Europe or cultural odyssey's through Asia. Sail along the storied French waterways; navigate the Douro, Portugal's "River of Gold"; see the castles along the Rhine or the gardens and windmills of the Dutch Waterways. Further afield venture along the lower reaches of the majestic Mekong; the grand, historic Nile; the mighty Ganges and much, much more.
THE RIVER CRUISE SALE!
We search high and low for the best cruises at unbeatable prices. Which means no matter what you're looking for, we'll always find the perfect cruise for you!
Choose from 1000's of amazing cruise deals from luxury adult-only cruises, family cruises to river cruises and everything in between, our travel specialists are here to help find your perfect cruise! We have the best itineraries at unbeatable prices.
25th August 2026 | 7-nights | Budapest to Munich
Highlights of the Danube | EXCLUSIVE
EXCLUSIVE all-inclusive river cruise with fully inclusive drinks and excursions included!
From beautiful Budapest to magnificent Munich – welcome to your private voyage along the Danube. This isn’t just any river cruise, this is our exclusive river cruise, with special highlights to make this your most memorable holiday yet.
Discover more about European River Cruises
The prime cruising season for Europe runs from April to October, when the weather is mild and the landscapes are vibrant.
- Spring brings blooming flowers and fewer crowds.
- Summer offers long, sunny days and lively festivals.
- Autumn features cooler temperatures and beautiful fall colours, especially along the Rhine and Danube. Special Christmas Market cruises operate from late November through December.
- Comfortable walking shoes (you’ll explore many towns on foot)
- Layers for changing weather
- Smart‑casual outfits for dinners
- A light rain jacket
- Travel adapters for European plug sockets
- Binoculars for scenic cruising
How big are river cruise ships?
River ships are much smaller than ocean liners, typically carrying 100–200 guests. This creates a more intimate, relaxed atmosphere and allows ships to dock right in the heart of historic cities.
Is Wi‑Fi available on board?
Yes, most ships offer complimentary Wi‑Fi*, though speeds can vary depending on the region and river conditions.
Are shore excursions included?
Most European river cruises include at least one guided excursion per port*, such as walking tours, wine tastings, castle visits, or cultural experiences. Optional premium excursions may be available for an additional cost.
River Cruise Holiday Destinations
Choose your preferred River Cruise destination below...
The Blue Danube with Riviera Travel and The Cruise Specialists
Soak up all that Europe’s most cultured river has to offer, with its wealth of grand baroque architecture, medieval cities, picture perfect towns and the sights that inspired Strauss and Mozart.
Taking the road less travelled - or in this case, river - offers a chance to see swathes of rural countryside, tiny towns you've never heard of and some of Europe's most beautiful inland cities from a fresh perspective. With constantly changing scenery river cruises offer a journey that's as memorable as the destinations.
River Cruise Lines
Below are just a selection of our popular river cruise lines to choose from!
Riviera Travel
Every day you will wake up to a brand new view from the luxury of your well-appointed suite; just relax as your 5 Star Riviera Travel river cruise ship makes its way between towns and cities to soak up the culture and unique experiences every day in the best way possible.
Emerald Cruises
Each Emerald cruise (formerly known as Emerald Waterways) is full of added extras, from a stunning selection of dining options to amazing days out.
Scenic River Cruises
The secret to a Scenic river cruise is simple – everything's included. From the moment you step on board your luxurious Scenic Space-Ship you rarely, if ever, have to dip into your wallet to pay for anything.
AmaWaterways
AmaWaterways are a river cruise line which aims to give you the best possible experience possible - a true travel event.
CroisiEurope
Drink in the sights of Europe’s famous rivers and experience river cruising at its best on board a CroisiEurope river cruise. Not only is CroisiEurope Europe’s largest river cruise line, but it’s also an award-winning, family-run business with over 43 years’ experience in river cruising.
Avalon Waterways
Avalon offer a river cruise experience of the very top class, with the highest levels of comfort and personalised service at every turn.
APT River Cruises & Guided Tours
Discover one of the most relaxing and refined ways to sail the world's most famous waterways with APT River Cruises. With ever-changing views, fine dining and stylish surroundings you will enjoy skillfully crafted cruises and tours, with expert guides and a unique insider's perspective.
UNIWORLD Boutique River Cruises
On every Uniworld boutique river cruise there's a moment when it becomes clear. Perhaps that moment comes when you are relaxing in the luxurious comfort of your well-appointed stateroom or suite.
TUI River Cruises
Explore the best of Europe big cities and hidden gems on-board a TUI River Cruise. All three TUI ships are adults only and with a maximum of 155 guests onboard, it will never feel crowded, but always comfortable.