River Cruises

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Live your Best Holiday Life on a River Cruise

Why Choose a River Cruise in Europe?

A European river cruise offers one of the most relaxing and immersive ways to explore the continent. Sail directly through the heart of iconic cities and charming villages, allowing you to step ashore within minutes of arrival.

Vienna city view

Multiple Destinations

Visit multiple destinations on one trip with no traffic, parking issues or un-packing every day

River view from Avalon room

Scenic Views

There is always something to see. Enjoy castles perched above rivers, rolling vineyards, medieval villages, and stunning countryside directly from the sun deck or your own room.

Wine Tasting

Local Culture

River cruises include guided tours, regional cuisine, wine tastings, local markets, and cultural experiences that help you truly connect with each destination.

Emerald Nova on the Douro River

Small Ships

Most European river ships carry between 100 and 200 guests, creating a more intimate atmosphere with exceptional personalised service.

Uniworld Wine Experience ashore

Active Relaxation

River cruises can be as active or as relaxing as you choose. With bike options, walking tours and wellness options onboard you style the trip to suit

Included Excursions

Included Excursions

With daily excursions included it takes the hassle out of knowing where to go at each destination

Which river cruise is best for first timers?

The Rhine & Danube are excellent choices for first time river cruisers, offering a mix of iconic cities, historic landmarks and breathtaking scenery. THE most popular river cruise itinerary for Kiwis is the Amsterdam to Budapest river cruise, which offers a comprehensive two-week trip across Europe and includes both rivers

Here are some quick tips from our Cruise Specialists on which river to choose for your first time

  • The Rhine – Castles, vineyards, and charming German villages.
  • The Danube – Vienna, Budapest, Bratislava, and picturesque countryside.
  • The Seine – Paris, Normandy, and historic French towns.
  • The Douro – Portugal’s famous wine region.
  • The Rhône – Provence, lavender fields, and world-class gastronomy.
  • Bordeaux - It’s all about the wine & the history
  • Venice - The ultimate way to see Venice & the islands

Find out the highlights & best travel times for each river

Tip from our Cruise Specialists! Remember, you can cruise in either direction on the river to suit your travel plans

aerial view of green trees and river during daytime

Amazon River Cruise

Are you ready to explore the final frontier! Follow in the footsteps of legendary explorers and step outside your comfort zone? In small ship luxury comfort of course! Find out if an Amazon river cruise is right for you and experience life on the wild side.

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brown concrete building near body of water during daytime

Europe River Cruises vs Rail

Planning a trip to Europe and can't decide if you should DIY the trip and travel by rail or take an All-Inclusive River Cruise? Our Founder Jeff Leckey looks at both options and shows the difference from his first hand experience of travelling both ways. Find out how prices and inclusions compare for the same sort of itinerary on Rail & Stay vs a River Cruise on the super popular Amsterdam to Budapest journey

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Latest River Cruise Deals & Offers

Planning a trip to Europe? River Cruise ships are smaller and tend to book much further ahead than Ocean Cruises. Check out the savings now and lock in your best River Cruise holiday

Last Minute River Cruises

Talk to our team for current availability & pricing, as river cruise availability is cached and not bookable online at this time

Popular River Cruise Lines

If you’ve seen a river cruise deal advertised online, in the press or on TV, search here by brand and compare the latest offers. Our cruise specialists are on stand by, to help you plan the perfect trip