Location: Available Worldwide
Great for: Singles, Couples, Families, Groups, and Honeymoons
Anyone considering a visit to multiple countries in Europe should at least consider a river cruise. If you have never been on a river cruise, you may think it is very much like an ocean cruise but smaller. In some ways yes, but in most ways, no.
Tours have been a popular way to vacation for decades and for good reason. They’re affordable, convenient, and offer travelers peace of mind knowing that everything they need for a fantastic trip is taken care of. Plus they don't need to drive, you will get to see the best sights, and get expert commentary from locals. River cruises are closer to tours than to ocean cruises but they offer a different experience.
Here are 12 reasons to consider river cruising on your next vacation.
1. Convenience
Taking a river cruise means that you don't have to worry about the logistics of planning your own itinerary or navigating unfamiliar roads or transportation systems. The cruise company and your travel advisor will take care of all the details, including transportation, accommodation, and activities. No researching, creating itineraries, or wondering about what to see.
2. Your River Cruise Ship is Your Hotel
No more lugging around your suitcase to daily hotels. You actually get to unpack only once. On a river cruise, many times you walk off, right into your destination so no need to drive. Think of that cute Bavarian town, right there, only footsteps away!
One of the reasons I love river cruises so much is the feeling of walking into a twin-balcony stateroom that will be your home away from home for the next 7- 10 days or more. You arrive, you unpack, you stay. Period. Whether you choose to have a window view, a private balcony, or even a twin balcony, you’ll always have a room with a view.
3. A More Intimate Experience
River cruising offers a more intimate setting. And don’t think of intimate as small, there are plenty of spaces to get some privacy when you want it. Most ships are under 200 passengers so you’ll never have to wait in line. You’ll have more time to enjoy all the amenities and have a more personal experience with other passengers and crew. From ordering a beverage to getting on and off the ship, you’ll enjoy the absence of long lines. You'll have more time in each destination without having to bus-up to get to the next stop. Less passengers also means smaller groups on excursions too!
4. Authentic and Immersive Cultural Experiences
Get away from the touristy spots and explore hidden gems or explore on your own since most of the time your ship is docked right in town!
River cruises often include excursions to local attractions and cultural experiences, such as wine tastings, museum visits, and city tours. You'll be able to immerse yourself in the local culture and get a more authentic experience of each destination.
And they are included! Yes, excursions are included in the cost of the river cruise. Depending on the line, you can experience up to 2 per day!
5. Slow Down and Enjoy
Many tours race you from one sight to another but river cruise port departures are later in the afternoon so you'll have more time in one place. Whether you choose an evening walking through cobblestone streets, a local show or performance, or one last glass of wine after dinner while listening to a local musician, immersing yourself in the evening culture together with the locals is a unique experience and one that you can't pass up.
Your travel advisor and the cruise managers onboard are available to assist with recommendations too.
6 . Oh the Views!
A river cruise offers a unique perspective on the landscapes, cities, and towns along the river. You'll be able to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding scenery without having to worry about driving or navigating and missing the beauty around you.
And did I mention castles? That’s right, castle views. From Amsterdam to Basel along the Rhine River, and in Budapest, Bratislava, Dürnstein and Passau on the Danube, you’ll see colorful architecture and castles that will have you speechless. But don’t just drive by them, why not walk, hike, or drive to them and then explore their amazing history and wonderful stories with a knowledgeable guide?
7. River Cruise Trips for All Types
Try a wine cruise through Bordeaux, with a foodie tour in Lyon. Did I mention the wine is included with lunch and dinner as well as the wine tastings on many lines? Visit castles and vineyards on a Rhine River cruise. If you love beautiful views and port wine, then Portugal’s Douro River is where you should be. Golf anyone? The concierge golf service down the Danube is a must. For anyone that just loves to get away around the holidays, try a Christmas Market cruise. Oh-so-many choices.
8. Family Friendly
With a variety of activities and plenty of stops along the way, everyone in the family will have an unforgettable experience. River cruising is perfect for multi-generational families. From grandparents to teenage grandchildren, the entire family will bond over a range of topics and activities from food to history to countryside excursions. There really is something to do for everyone on board at each destination.
Some members of your group may choose to take advantage of spa services, the sundeck pool, or cultural activities, while others may prefer to seek out a quiet space with a book.
Mealtimes are the perfect opportunity for everyone to come back together again as a family. It really is the perfect multi-generational vacation for your family or group of friends.
9. Comfort, Amenities, and the Food!
River cruises often offer luxurious amenities such as onboard spas, gourmet restaurants, and comfortable staterooms. You'll be able to relax and enjoy the journey in comfort, without having to worry about the stresses of travel. Food is included while onboard a river cruise so make sure to take advantage of the wonderful meals.
Whether you’re into wine tasting or local street food, a river cruise provides an exceptional culinary experience both on the ship and at every destination. The onboard culinary team focuses on utilizing fresh local ingredients and meals are paired with local wines. There are absolutely no mass-produced and basic buffet food on the river. Special accommodations can be made for gluten-free or other dietary needs, just ask. Specific to AmaWaterways, is an amazing Chaine D' Rotisseur tasting menu that can't be missed. Ask you travel advisor to book a trip with Amawaterways to experience this.
10. A Variety of Experiences
Let’s not forget just how special every European country is! The towns and cities may be close in proximity along the river, but don’t be surprised by the unique feeling and experiences that each destination gives you. Choose from visiting local breweries, hiking to castles, biking through trendy neighborhoods, or visiting museums that highlight the local culture. And with so many rivers to sail, you will never get bored. Not interested in a tour, thanks ok, the bus is not leaving you, stay on the ship and enjoy or sit in town and have a coffee. You don't have to go where everyone goes.
11. Time Savings
A river cruise is an efficient way to see multiple destinations in a short period of time. Bucketlisters can cross of quite a few countries off the list and even a few extra with pre or post-stays. You won't have to worry about spending hours on transportation or driving between destinations. Check the box and done!
12. No Motion Sickness
For my cruisers out there, and I am one, motion sickness can really bring down a trip if you are not prepared. But on a river cruise, no prep is needed! Because you glide across the water like glass on the rivers, there is no motion sickness like you would experience on an ocean cruise. Leave the Dramamine at home and enjoy the trip.
So, there you have it. Twelve reasons why you should consider river cruising. From convenience to all the inclusions, a river cruise just might be the right choice for your next trip to Europe and beyond. Did you know you can even take on in South Africa? China? France? There are so many to choose from, ask your travel advisor what might work for you.
If you are looking for authentic experiences, see our list of "20 Surprising Experiences You Never Imagined You Could Have on a River Cruise". Request your PDF copy below.
Vibrant Travel researches, plans, and books vacations for curious travelers, busy professionals, and groups looking for authentic and enriching experiences. We save our clients hours of searching the internet and precious time trying to pull together all the details needed to create memorable, hassle-free trips. We would love to help you too.
Call today at 407-517-4744 to end the frustration of doing it all yourself.
If you enjoyed the article please like it and share it with your friends.
To get notified when I post articles, videos, tips, and giveaways, subscribe here.
#EuropeRiverCruise #CruiseEurope #RiverAdventures #ExploreEurope #CruiseLife #RiverJourney #DiscoverEurope #CruiseVacation #RiverWanderlust #EuropeanEscape #RiverCruiseExperience #TravelEurope #LuxuryCruising #EuropeByRiver #CruiseEuropeInStyle #RiverCruiseDreams #EuropeanWaterways #CruiseAndExplore #RiverCruiseSpecials