Travel in Comfort on These European River Cruises

The travel sector had an undeniably difficult year in 2020, with cruise tourism feeling the sharp sting of COVID-19. Despite a harrowing year, things are looking up with river cruises “consistently ranked among the most desired products for future travel” in consumer and travel industry surveys conducted throughout the pandemic.

The cruise industry appears poised to set sail—now appealing to cruisers across generations. And despite what you might think, river cruises are not solely reserved for well-off retirees, oh no. According to CBI’s report looking at the European market potential for cruise tourism, “river and small ship cruises are gaining importance among millennials while Generation Z is looking for multi-destination cruises and unique experiences onboard”.

To prepare for this potential boom, cruise companies have used the enforced downtime wisely, going to great lengths to implement rigorous protocols and update ship features to ensure passenger health and safety.

To get you set for your luxury voyage abroad, we have rounded up 4 of the best European River Cruises.

The Best Luxury European River Cruises

Lyon and Provence, Viking Cruises

This 8-day cruise will take you on a voyage down the Rhône through scenic Provence in France. Explore historic old towns, walk through winding cobblestone streets, discover ancient cathedrals and enjoy an afternoon of wine-tasting at famous Châteauneuf-du-Pape. This dreamy cruise stops in Arles, Avignon, Viviers, Tournon and Lyon and includes seven guided tours.

Different Viking Longships are available depending on your sail date, and each ship is fitted with several deluxe rooms included the Explorer Suite: A 445 square foot room with river views, wraparound balcony, hotel-style bed, large private bathroom, housekeeping, private airport transfers, welcome champagne and much more.

Stockholm to Copenhagen, Regent Seven Seas Cruises

Whilst not technically a river cruise, the 7-night Stockholm to Copenhagen cruise can’t be missed. Cruising around the Baltic Sea, this cruise explores the best of Northern Europe—starting in scenic Stockholm before heading to Helsinki, historic St. Petersburg, Tallinn, Wismar and Copenhagen.

The Regent Suite onboard the Seven Seas Splendor is the crème de la crème of cruise ship accommodation with a private balcony, living room, in-suite spa with sauna, steam room, walk-in closets, private butler, daily canapes and more.

Romantic Danube, Viking Cruises

The Danube has become the darling of European river cruises, and this romantic 8-day voyage is a prime example. Starting in Budapest, the Romantic Danube sails through picturesque Hungary, Austria and Germany. The trip includes five guided tours giving you the chance to explore the historical Castle District of Budapest, the baroque architecture of Vienna, the Benedictine abbey of Krems and the local farms of Passau in Germany.

The ships have a variety of suites on offer including the Veranda Suite that is 275 square feet with a full-size veranda and French balcony, hotel-style bed with luxury linen, spacious glass-enclosed shower and more.

Russian Waterways, APT Luxury Travel

Step onboard the stylish MS Valentina for a 13-day cruise that explores seven destinations and includes 35 meals, two nights luxury land accommodation, ten nights onboard and a private ballet performance at the Hermitage Theatre. Explore Moscow’s Red Square, the Monastery of St Cyril on the White Lake and Kizhi Island, home to the Transfiguration Church, built-in 1714 without a single nail.

MS Valentina has 98 staterooms, including the deluxe Junior Suite: A 334 square feet room with a plush queen-sized bed, flat-screen TV, outside balcony and spacious wardrobe.

Dreaming of a getaway? Discover the most amazing London hotels.

Featured