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Best Longer River Cruises

Cruise Advice
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Whilst a UK guest will often book a one-week cruise on a European river such as the Rhine, Danube, Seine or Douro, longer journeys are also quite appealing, with plenty of options available. These are some of the best longer river cruises.

As you travel the great rivers of Europe you are introduced to an extraordinary range of architecture, culture, history, food and music, whilst returning each night to your comfortable home from home. Take a look at some of the options available.

Tauck: From the North Sea to the Black Sea, 25 nights

This remarkable voyage virtually links the North Sea to the Black Sea: travelling on the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers, you travel through the Netherlands, Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria and Romania. En route you glide past grand cathedrals, medieval monasteries, and historic citadels - as well as through the Main-Danube Canal and the Iron Gate of the Danube.

The Tauck river cruise product stands out for its private, inclusive shore excursions which take in many UNESCO World Heritage Sites, as well as The Tauck Difference comprised of two unique visits: a private Imperial Evening at a traditional palace in Vienna featuring dinner and Viennese performers, and a reception and dinner at Bragadiru Palace in Bucharest.

Best Longer River Cruises

Scenic: The Rhine and Moselle, 14 nights

Take your time to fall in love with the romantic Rhine and its idyllic tributary the Moselle; legendary waterways steeped in fairy tales, captivating scenery and enchanting cultures. This is iconic river cruising just as you imagine on Scenic's lovely ships; a leisurely journey flanked with story-book scenery, dotted with medieval villages and historic castles, some crumbling and others standing proud.

The folklore that has been passed down for centuries will capture your imagination and heart and your journey will be filled with tales from Lorelei, the beautiful maiden said to lure sailors to their demise to the Black Forest, made famous by the Brothers Grimm.

Best Longer River Cruises

Uniworld: Cruise and Rail to Venice, Istanbul and the Balkans, 16 nights

This is a unique journey by cruise and train as you travel between northern Italy and the diverse nations of the Balkan Peninsula, discovering a unique blend of Eastern and Western cultures along the way. A private train journey to Istanbul on the luxury Golden Eagle Danube Express gives ever-changing views at your window - the perfect addition to a river cruise long the way, visit alpine-lake towns and historic cities across Eastern Europe.

After a fascinating journey through the Balkans, you board the S.S. La Venezia in Venice and treat yourself to a private evening lighting ceremony at St. Mark's Basilica. Explore the waterfront shops, colourful façades, and peaceful canals unique to Burano, Mazzorbo, and Torcello. Further south, discover Chioggia - a charming southern port loved by fishermen and artists.

Best Longer River Cruises

AmaWaterways: Exploring France, 19 nights

On this AmaWaterways French exploration you combine two river cruises with leisurely pre- and post-cruise stays to learn about the rich history, captivating art, vibrant culture, and epicurean delights of the region. Start with a pre-cruise land package in Paris, then head through Normandy to visit the D-Day landing beaches, sample the region's famed Calvados, cider, and cheese, step inside Monet's paintings at his home and gardens in Giverny, visit idyllic châteaux, and pedal through the French countryside.

Board the train for Bordeaux to taste the wines and marvel at historic architecture, from the UNESCO-designated Blaye Citadel to the impressive Roquetaillade Castle, and even Bordeaux's modern Cité du Vin wine museum. Finally, experience the wonders of the Loire Valley from your base in Tours.

Best Longer River Cruises

River Cruising Uncovered

Download now: your complete guide to river cruising.

Meet the author

Edwina Lonsdale is Managing Director and together with husband Matthew, owner of Mundy Cruising. Most recently she's cruised on Windstar and has also sailed with Silversea, Seabourn, Regent Seven Seas, Crystal, SeaDream, Ponant, AmaWaterways and Aqua Expeditions. Her favourite destination is the Galapagos however she's also enjoyed cruises in the Mediterranean, Danube, Middle East, East Africa & Indian Ocean, Brahmaputra, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, the Mekong, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines, the Caribbean and the Arctic. When she’s not travelling she loves reading, food and wine.

More about Edwina

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