European river cruising has grown into one of travel’s most popular formats, and it’s easy to understand why. The great rivers of Central and Western Europe — the Rhine, Danube, Douro, Moselle, Seine and Main — thread through the heart of the continent, connecting iconic cities, vineyard landscapes and medieval villages in a single, seamlessly organised itinerary. You unpack once, wake up in a new city every morning and step directly off the ship into the town centre without a transfer in sight. River cruise ships carry between 100 and 200 passengers — far fewer than ocean liners — creating a more intimate and convivial atmosphere. All meals are typically included and the standard of cooking has improved dramatically in recent years, with many lines serving regional specialities at each port. Shore excursions by bicycle, e-bike or on foot are increasingly standard, allowing passengers to explore at their own pace. The most popular route is the Danube from Nuremberg or Passau to Budapest or Bucharest, passing through Vienna, Bratislava and the Wachau wine region. The Rhine from Amsterdam to Basel is equally classic, with the Rhine Gorge section — a UNESCO World Heritage landscape of castles, vineyards and steep river cliffs — among the most scenic stretches of waterway in Europe. The Douro in Portugal, the Seine through Normandy and the Moselle into Luxembourg are beautiful alternatives. Christmas market river cruises have become enormously popular: December departures along the Rhine and Danube visit Cologne, Strasbourg, Nuremberg, Vienna and Budapest, their riverfront decorated with atmospheric festive markets and mulled wine stalls. European river cruising suits couples, friends travelling together and those celebrating special occasions.