Sponsored by Emerald Waterways

How to Choose the Perfect River Cruise

Have you ever thought about experiencing a river cruise? With so many beautiful rivers to choose from, it can be hard to know which one is right for you. Fortunately, there’s an adventure to suit every taste and interest. Use this helpful guide to help make the final choice.

What to Know Before You Book:

You will be on land almost every day! There’s plenty of opportunity to step onto dry land and explore new cultures as part of a river cruise; perfect if you’re keen to explore. For those excited about the opportunity to experience new destinations, it’s important to make sure you pack comfortable walking shoes and sufficient clothing for different weather conditions.

Many ports offer a variety of excursions. To get the very most out of every day on a river cruise, we’d suggest researching the daily excursions available, as well as the highlights of the regions, cities, and towns you are visiting. From EmeraldPLUS and EmeraldACTIVE experiences to solo exploration, Emerald Waterways gives you great freedom to explore new places at your own pace, on your own route.

Some itineraries feature mini city breaks. If you’d like to pair the opportunity to explore multiple destinations and cultures, with the chance to experience a beautiful city break – some river cruise itineraries feature a short stay at the start or end of a trip. For example, our Secrets of the Douro & Lisbon itinerary features three days in Portugal’s capital before flying home; or Classic Prague & Danube Delights, which boasts three nights in the stunning Czech capital before embarkation.

A dining experience like never before. Since your meals are included in the price, we’ve made it our mission to bring you the finest foods and culinary experiences you can find. Tailored to the path you travel, the food awaiting you is locally-sourced, seasonal fare packed with diverse flavors that delight your taste buds at any time of day. A true highlight of your time on-board.

Research Your Rivers

Whatever your passions, there’s a river ready for everyone’s taste. Be sure to consult the cruise website and brochures for more information. If you’re a wine connoisseur, then the Rhône is for you. Prefer to explore new cultures? Then the Rhine itineraries are hand-crafted to enrich the mind. And for those with a taste for the exotic, sailing along the Mekong turns your holiday into a far-flung adventure. The variety of river cruise itineraries means there’s an adventure to suit everyone, whatever your tastes and interests may be. The wonderful tours offered showcase the enigmatic, unique, and picturesque qualities of some of the world’s most iconic waters, so whatever river cruise you choose, their distinct personalities will inspire awe and wonder from start to finish.

A Few River Cruise Choices:

Danube

Passing through 10 different countries, more than any other river in the world, the Danube is the lifeblood at the heart of Europe’s most elegant and awe-inspiring cities. Along its winding expanse, you’ll encounter Budapest’s alluring beauty, Vienna’s inspiring culture, and the veiled charms of Bratislava. With no two days ever alike, a journey on the Danube is one for those looking to experience the culture and importance of some of the continent’s most iconic cities. Best For:

Taking a trip back in time: some of the architecture dotted along the Danube is over 1,000 years old.
Uncovering the evolution of European culture: from Melk Abbey to Austria’s winemaking heritage, a sense of history’s influence over the Danube unveils itself instantly.

If you like… Iconic capital cities, historic architecture, and rich, significant cultures? The Danube does all three exceptionally well.

Main

Connecting the Danube to the Rhine, the Main’s provincial charm and Germanic splendor unearths a wealth of European history along its 237-mile stretch. Ancient towns like Bamberg and Miltenberg reveal a world long forgotten, while Wertheim Castle and the World Heritage-listed Residenz offer cultural delights that stay with you long after your river cruise ends. A journey through Bavaria lets you experience the region’s distinctly refreshing culture and mentality, from its folksy food and wine regions, to its proudly welcoming spirit. Best for:

Awe-inspiring views of breath-taking castles, vast in number.
Experiencing a real-life Brothers Grimm tale, complete with half-timbered houses.

If you like… Lush countryside, idyllic fairytale-style buildings and Roman influence without compare. The Rhine’s iconic expanse houses many a treat to satisfy your wanderlust.

Rhine

Beginning in the heart of Amsterdam, and coursing through the fairy-tale wonder of West Germany, the Rhine is a splendor-filled experience. Nestled amongst the medieval towns and Roman influence sits the beautiful city of Cologne, home to the delightful Kölner Dom. Complete with recreated 16th-century villages, inspiring architecture and lush vineyards, the Rhine has something for everyone. Best for

Awe-inspiring views of breath-taking castles, vast in number.
Experiencing a real-life Brothers Grimm tale, complete with half-timbered houses.

If you like… Lush countryside, idyllic fairytale-style buildings and Roman influence without compare. The Rhine’s iconic expanse houses offer many a treat to satisfy your wanderlust. To learn more and see additional choices, click here.