Cruise trips are a fantastic way to really get to know a destination. Among the various cruise options around the world, European river cruises are often considered top-notch. They take you along some of the continent’s most beautiful rivers like the Seine, Danube, Moselle, Rhone, Main, Rhine, and Douro. As you travel along these rivers, you’ll have the chance to explore the culture and history of the cities and countries you pass through.
One popular option is a cruise along the Danube River, which takes you through Austria. You’ll visit iconic cities like Vienna and Salzburg, known for their stunning snow-capped mountains, serene waterways, and historic architecture. Both cities are steeped in classical music history and home to some of the best museums dedicated to legendary musicians like Mozart and Beethoven. Vienna and Salzburg also boast beautiful palaces and gardens, such as Schonbrunn Palace, Belvedere Palace, Prater, Mozart’s Birthplace Museum, and Schloss Hellbrunn.
Belgium is another highlight, with attractions such as the Grand Palace, Brussels Town Hall, Museum aan de Stroom, Le Berlaymont, and the Cathedral of Our Lady Antwerp. It’s a country that perfectly blends historical and modern architecture. Food lovers will enjoy indulging in Belgian waffles and chocolates, with plenty of renowned restaurants, cafes, and patisseries in cities like Antwerp and Brussels. Belgium is often included in Rhine and Rhone River cruise itineraries, with many cruises traveling along the Scheldt River, connecting Belgium with France and the Netherlands.
France features prominently in many European river cruise itineraries, with the Seine, Rhone, Garonne, and Rhine rivers offering routes through the country. France is home to iconic tourist spots like the Louvre, Eiffel Tower, and Notre Dame. Paris, in particular, is famous for its world-class restaurants, bars, cafes, and patisseries, attracting millions of visitors annually. Guided walking tours give you an in-depth look at French history and culture, enhancing the cruise experience.
These European river cruises also often include stops in other beautiful countries like the Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany, Hungary, Portugal, Romania, Switzerland, and the Netherlands. Going on a European river cruise is a wonderful way to relax and spend quality time with loved ones, especially after the challenging times brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic.