Author: Maria Alfano
So you have been thinking of river cruising in Europe but don’t know where to start! Look no further.
Check out the helpful tips on river cruising.
If you have never been on a river cruise before, you may be in for a surprise.
River cruises are typically quieter than ocean cruises with fewer passengers on board.
They may be a little more costly because they don’t have the same buying power for food and beverage that an ocean liner has.
And, you may not have the same quality of entertainment on the ship as their bigger cousins that float around the seas.
What is the best month for river cruising in Europe
Traveling anywhere in Europe is perfect between April and October. If you are one that enjoys the larger tourist crowds, then June to August are for you. For those that prefer fewer people around you, try traveling in April, May, September, or early October.
Getting around the villages your cruise stops at along the way will be less crowded when traveling early or late in the season. You will be able to enjoy more of these exotic little places without all the tourist rush.
The weather also plays a key role in your decision-making. Like in North America April and October tend to be cooler months. But, you would see the new blooms in April/May and the leaves changing color in October.
How much is A river cruise through Europe?
There is a price that can suit any budget. Cruises can start from around $250 USD per night up to $1,500 per night.
The cheapest cruises in Europe are on the Rhine or Danube River while France has the most luxuriously expensive river cruises.
Cruising during shoulder months like April and October could also mean cost savings for you.
Is airfare extra when booking a European River Cruise
In most cases, yes, airfare is an additional cost you need to consider.
On occasion, you could get lucky and find a deal sponsored by the travel agency or the cruise lines that will include airfare. This generally happens when they need to book more passengers at a specific time of year – like April or October.
Earlybird specials are also available when booking the current year to cruise in the coming year. This way you can not only take advantage of the deal but also any potential price increases.
What is the most picturesque River Cruise In Europe?
Some of the best river cruises you can experience are listed below. Each one provides its own unique view.
Travel the waterways of France on one of these spectacular cruises
- Seine River cruise – step foot on the beaches of Normandy and experience the history of D-Day. Or, stroll down the streets of Monet’s hometown of Giverny.
- Moselle River cruise – spot some amazing medieval architecture as you drift down the Moselle River through France, Luxemburg, and Germany.
- Rhone River Cruises – perfect for foodies and wine connoisseurs alike. Enjoy wine tastings and food pairings at vineyards along the way.
Northern European cruises carry their own brand of wow!
- Tulip cruises – there is no place in the world like the Netherlands when it comes to tulips. Perfect for those wishing to travel in early spring, this cruise will take you through Belgium and the Netherlands to experience these wonderful flowers in bloom.
- Rhine River cruises – this is has voted one of the best river cruises in Europe. Float along the 776 miles of Rhine to far away places like Germany, France, the Netherlands, Switzerland, and Liechtenstein.
Central and Eastern Europe River Cruises
- Main River cruises – this is the granddaddy of them all. It combines the Red and White Main and the Rhine River cruises to give you an astounding journey to cities like Mainz, Frankfurt, Nuremberg, Wurzberg, Bamberg, and more
- Danube River cruises – probably one of the most well-known rivers in all of Europe, the Danube offers cruises to Austria (to see the Vienna Opera House), Germany, and Budapest
- Elbe cruises – travel between Germany and the Czech Republic while stopping in landmark cities like Prague and Luxembourg
What Should You Wear on A River Cruise
What should you pack for this amazing trip? Keep in mind the aristocrats that could be on board your ship as you float along these wonderous European rivers and see these mesmerizing European cities. You never know who you could be rubbing elbows with on your ship.
Casualwear including denim is acceptable during the day on the ship, in the dining room for breakfast or lunch, and on excursions.
Formal attire may be required during the dinner hour. This means a jacket, shirt (tie may be required), and slacks for men. For the ladies, a dress, skirt or slacks and blouse is considered appropriate.
In Summary – Tips for River Cruising IN Europe
There is a river cruise in anyone’s future. No matter what you are looking for, there is one to suit your fancy. These tips are useful no matter which cruise you decide upon.
Please share your favorite European river cruise tip with us.
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All images courtesy of rawpixel