River cruises are a fun way to soak up the culture of a river’s surrounding cities, towns, and regions. Many rivers are cradled by fantastic views of breathtaking mountain vistas or picturesque fields. You can travel solo, with your partner, or with the entire family! Cruises are a versatile and worthwhile method of embarking on an adventure. We have collected some river cruises from around the world that we think are the best. Bookmark your favorites and then look into booking your ticket after you pick your favorite one!
1. Paris to Switzerland
Let’s start our list in the heart of Europe with a cruise that journeys down the serene waters of the Rhine. You will start your trip in Paris for a two-day tour on the ground. If you have never been to this legendary place, then prepare to be amazed. There is so much to see and do here, and so many experiences to soak in, all before getting on the cruise ship!
On day 3 of the trip, it’s time to head to Luxembourg and then Germany! These fantastic central Europe locations are rich in history and satisfy the yearning wanderlust-stricken traveler. You’ll take part in a guided tour in Luxembourg at the site where the infamous Battle of the Bulge took place in Luxembourg City. Next, it’s time to get on the boat! Day 3 concludes with embarking the ship, and dinner served on board. Bon Appetit!
While traveling along the gorgeous Rhine, you will feel as if you are in a fairy tale. This region of the world is exceptionally beautiful and whimsical. Many famous German towns are along the route. First stop is Trier which is Germany’s oldest town where you will have a guided tour. Then the cruise continues to Bernkastel where you can explore the cobblestone streets and local shops.
Step back in time, all the way to medieval days for the next stop in Cochem. You will get to explore the magnificent Reichsburg Castle and explore a winery that produces some of the world’s finest Rieslings in the same tradition for over 2,000 years ago. The last three stops in Germany are Koblenz, Mainz, and Speyer, all of which are small classic German cities rich in history with an idyllic setting along the Rhine.
As the cruise comes to a close, there is one last stop, this time in France at Strasbourg. Perched on the Rhine between the border of France and Germany, this city boasts an interesting mix of cultures as well as many places of interest to explore. Finally, you will reach your destination in beautiful Switzerland greeted by the Swiss Alps, then eventually head on to Zurich.
This is a 12-day cruise that goes to 4 different countries and the ticket prices start at $3,499. There are 10 guided tours included in the price as well as many other fantastic amenities to be experienced onboard the ship. Please visit Viking Cruises if you want more info about this cruise.
2. Beijing to Shanghai
The next river cruise on our list will allow you to discover the wonders of the Far East. This cruise travels along China’s massive Yangtze River for some truly spectacular views as well as unique different cultures that you will be able to experience through guided tours.
The tour starts in China’s capital, Beijing. This is one of Asia’s most heritage-rich cities and you will be able to spend 3 days soaking in all the fantastic culture. Explore the Forbidden City which was built 3,000 years ago or walk on the Great Wall of China which is also an ancient structure.
On Day 4, you will fly to Xian, which is another ancient city of China rich with history and culture. Here you will see the Terracotta Soldiers, which along with the Great Wall is one of the Wonders of the World. After exploring the ancient streets of Xian, you will fly to Chongqing which is the gateway to the Yangtze River, and another famous Chinese city.
Now aboard the cruise ship, you will travel along the mighty Yangtze and witness some incredible views of the region’s lush mountains. The first stop is Shibaozhai which houses an impressive 12-story Qing Dynasty pagoda in striking brilliant red color. After that, you will be whisked away through one of the most beautiful places on the planet; the Three Gorges area of the Yangtze.
Marvel at the magnificence of each of the Three Gorges as your cruise ship journeys through each and notice the unique differences of each one. There are incredible structures built into the natural cliffsides along the way, allowing you perspective into some of the local cultures that dwell here. Finally, you will reach the Three Gorges Dam which is the world’s single largest hydroelectric power unit, and is truly a spectacular sight to behold!
As the tour comes to a close, you’ll continue along the Yangtze to briefly explore Jingzhou and Wuhan. Both are beautiful cities along the Yangtze with lots of temples containing ancient artifacts and relics. To end your trip, you will take a flight to Shanghai to check out China’s largest and most modern city. This entire journey will certainly let you experience many different faces of China and its diverse culture.
This is a 14-day cruise that explores various regions of China. The ticket prices start at $3,499 and there is a total of 11 guided tours included in the price as well as fantastic amenities onboard the ship. Please visit Viking Cruises if you want more info about this cruise.
3. Nuremberg to Budapest
Now let’s go back to central Europe for one of the most popular cruises on the beloved Danube. This cruise will take you along some of the best-hidden gems in Europe that many travelers don’t experience because of the remoteness of many locations. The Danube and this cruise, in particular, are known as romantic getaways so this is a perfect cruise for couples to choose to go on together.
The tour starts in Budapest which is a quaint city along the Danube. Your guided tours here will lead you to many of the city’s best sites such as the National Opera House, Buda’s Castle District, and many 19th-century classic mansions.
Next, you will head to the elegant city of Vienna to explore some of Europe’s most rich history. Guided tours here will include the breathtaking St. Stephen’s Cathedral and majestic Hofburg Palace. You will also get the chance to tour the Schönbrunn Palace which is nicknamed the “Versailles of Vienna” due to its world-class architecture.
As you cruise down the Danube, you will revel at the beautiful scenery and stop in the cute Bavarian towns of Krems, Regensburg, and Passau. The Bavarian region of Europe is world-renowned for its unmatched pristine beauty. There are rolling hills that will make you think you are in heaven, small shops that are wonderful to explore, and of course famous local Bavarian beer.
The final destination of the tour is in Nuremberg, an old historical city in southern Germany. The beautiful Danube flows through the river offering breathtaking views, and you will enjoy a guided tour at the medieval Nuremberg Castle. As you may know, this city also is an important center for WWII history, so history buffs will enjoy touring Zeppelin Field.
This is an 8-day cruise that goes to 3 different countries. The ticket prices start at $1,999 and there is a total of 6 guided tours included in the price as well as fantastic amenities onboard the ship. Please visit Viking Cruises if you want more info about this cruise.
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