Top 5 River Cruises for First-Time Travelers | Best Routes and Tips
- Amy Worlow
- Jul 15
- 4 min read
1. Danube River – The Classic First Cruise
Route: Budapest to Vienna or beyond (often extending to cities like Passau, Linz, and Bratislava)
Why It’s Great: The Danube River is a great introduction to European river cruising, weaving through the heart of Central and Eastern Europe. This journey showcases a blend of stunning landscapes, grand castles, ancient cathedrals, and charming villages. Key stops include Vienna’s imperial palaces, Budapest’s thermal baths and bridges, and the medieval town of Bratislava. The route offers ample opportunities to dive into European culture, music, and architecture.
Perfect For: History buffs, culture lovers, and first-time European travelers looking for a relaxed yet enriching experience. The Danube's importance in European history makes it perfect for those interested in classical music, history, and art.
Cruise Lines: Tauck, AmaWaterways, Avalon Waterways – offering luxurious amenities and expert-led excursions that enhance the historical and cultural themes of the journey.
Additional Highlights: Explore the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace in Vienna, sample local wines in the Wachau Valley, and immerse yourself in Budapest’s vibrant café culture.
The Danube is the perfect “first cruise” for good reason, see what makes it a favorite among our clients.
Rhône River – France for Food & Wine Lovers
Route: Lyon to Avignon (sometimes extending to the Mediterranean coast)
Why It’s Great: The Rhône River is a haven for food and wine lovers, winding through one of the most celebrated gastronomic regions in the world. The route is dotted with vineyards, local markets, and charming Provencal towns. Experience the richness of French cuisine with onboard culinary demonstrations and shore excursions to famous vineyards. Cities like Lyon, known as the culinary capital of France, and Avignon, steeped in history and romance, provide unforgettable cultural experiences.
Perfect For: Foodies, wine enthusiasts, and couples seeking a romantic getaway. The route is perfect for travelers who want to savor the French countryside, fine wines, and exceptional cuisine.
Cruise Lines: Uniworld, AmaWaterways, Scenic – known for their premium services and top-tier culinary experiences. Expect onboard wine pairings, cooking classes, and opportunities to dine in world-renowned restaurants.
Additional Highlights: Stroll through the medieval streets of Avignon, enjoy wine tasting at Châteauneuf-du-Pape, and explore the culinary delights of Lyon’s bustling food markets.
3. Rhine River – Fairytales & Castles
Route: Amsterdam to Basel (with stops in cities like Koblenz, Strasbourg, and Cologne)
Why It’s Great: The Rhine River is a picturesque journey through some of Europe’s most fairytale-worthy landscapes. This cruise features majestic castles perched on hilltops, lush vineyards, and charming villages with cobblestone streets. The stunning castles along the "Romantic Rhine" and the famous Lorelei Rock are just a few of the route’s highlights. The region also offers some of Europe’s best wines, and the architecture in cities like Strasbourg and Cologne is breathtaking.
Perfect For: Those seeking a picture-perfect European experience, with fairytale castles, rich history, and scenic beauty at every turn.
Cruise Lines: Uniworld, Tauck, Avalon – these lines offer a range of ships and experiences from classic elegance to more intimate, boutique voyages, all while focusing on showcasing the best of the Rhine’s charm.
Additional Highlights: Explore the fairytale town of Heidelberg, enjoy a private tour of the Black Forest, and cruise through the iconic vineyards of the Moselle region.
Not sure what you’ll need to budget for?
We’ve outlined what’s usually included in a river cruise, so you can plan with confidence.
4. Danube Christmas Markets Cruise
Route: Nuremberg to Vienna (other routes may include stops in Salzburg and Budapest)
Why It’s Great: For travelers seeking a magical holiday experience, the Danube Christmas Markets Cruise offers a journey through Europe’s most festive cities during the holiday season. The crisp winter air, twinkling lights, and the scent of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts create a fairy-tale atmosphere. Visit world-renowned Christmas markets in Nuremberg, Vienna, and Budapest, each offering local crafts, seasonal delicacies, and unique souvenirs.
Perfect For: Holiday lovers, winter travelers, and anyone in search of a festive, enchanting getaway. It's a perfect option for families, couples, and solo travelers wanting to experience the magic of Christmas in Europe.
Cruise Lines: AmaWaterways, Avalon, Tauck – offering a cozy, festive experience with onboard holiday-themed events, special excursions to local Christmas markets, and winter wonderland settings.
Additional Highlights: Warm up with a hot drink in Vienna’s charming Christmas Markets, explore Budapest’s Buda Castle adorned in holiday lights, and take in the beauty of the snow-covered landscapes in Austria.
5. Mississippi River – America’s River Cruise
Route: New Orleans to Memphis (with optional extensions to St. Louis, Chicago, and Minneapolis)
Why It’s Great: The Mississippi River is one of America’s most iconic and culturally rich waterways. This cruise takes you deep into the heart of the American South, where you can experience jazz music in New Orleans, explore Civil War history in Vicksburg, and enjoy southern hospitality in Memphis. The region’s rich cultural heritage, from blues music to historic plantations, is woven into the fabric of the journey. Guests can also enjoy charming small towns, expansive river views, and authentic local cuisine.
Perfect For: Travelers who want a closer look at American history and culture, especially those with an interest in jazz, Civil War history, and Southern traditions. It’s ideal for those wanting to cruise close to home.
Cruise Lines: American Cruise Lines, Viking Mississippi – both known for their comfortable riverboats and well-curated excursions, which bring the historical and cultural landscape of the Mississippi to life.
Additional Highlights: Visit the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis, hear live jazz on a riverboat in New Orleans, and explore the historic plantations of the Mississippi Delta.
Ready to plan your first river cruise? We’ll help you choose the right destination, cruise line, and itinerary — schedule a complimentary consultation today.
