scenic lyon river cruise

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Lyon, Provence & the Rhineland

• From $5,199
• 14 Guided Tours
• 4 Countries
• Dates & Pricing
• 2024 2025 2026
• Avignon to Amsterdam Amsterdam to Avignon

Lyon, Provence & the Rhineland Map

Vineyards, Gastronomy and Culture

Journey along the Rhône and the Rhine, through landscapes shaped by centuries of history, viticulture and art. Taste complex red wines and crisp whites grown on terraced vineyards rooted in the Roman Empire. Explore Avignon’s grand Palace of the Popes and Cologne’s majestic cathedral, both UNESCO sites. Savor Lyon’s rich culinary traditions and the Rhineland’s hearty flavors and admire the landscapes that inspired van Gogh in the Netherlands and Provence.

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Viking Inclusive Value

All you need included, with no surprises or hidden fees

To learn more about each port of call and our included as well as optional excursions, click on the individual days below.

Itinerary and shore excursions are subject to change and may vary by departure.

More features, services and excursions included

One complimentary shore excursion in every port of call

Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary)

Beer, wine & soft drinks with onboard lunch & dinner

24-hour specialty coffees, teas  & bottled water

Port taxes & fees

Ground transfers with Viking Air purchase

Visits to UNESCO Sites

Enrichment lectures & Destination Performances

Your Stateroom Includes:

River-view stateroom

Bottled water replenished daily

110/220 volt outlets

Queen-size Viking Explorer Bed (optional twin-bed configuration) with luxury linens & pillows

Private bathroom with shower, heated floor & anti-fog mirror

Premium Freyja® toiletries

Plush robes & slippers (upon request)

40" or 42" flat-screen Sony® TV with infotainment system featuring Movies On Demand, plus CNBC, CNN, FOX & more

Telephone, safe, refrigerator

Individual climate control

*All amenities on board Viking Longships; amenities vary on other ships.

Pre & Post Cruise Extensions

More days means more to discover, with extension packages you can add before or after your Viking cruise or cruisetour. Enjoy additional days to explore your embarkation or disembarkation city, or see a new destination altogether with a choice of exciting cities. Pre & Post Cruise Extensions vary by itinerary and are subject to change.

Pre: Amsterdam

From $699 | 2 Nights

Pre: Amsterdam Premium

From $1,199 | 2 Nights

Pre: Antwerp

Post: French Riviera

From $999 | 3 Nights

Post: Aix-en-Provence

From $799 | 2 Nights

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Interactive world cruise map, home | cruise ships | port expenses | hints and tips, lyon france.

Lyon is a vibrant city located in the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region of France. The city is known for its rich history, stunning architecture, world-class cuisine, and vibrant cultural scene.

One of the city's most notable landmarks is the Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière, a beautiful basilica located on a hill overlooking the city. Visitors can explore the basilica's intricate carvings, stained glass windows, and soaring arches, and enjoy panoramic views of Lyon from its terrace. Another must-see attraction is the Musée des Beaux-Arts, a museum showcasing the city's art and cultural heritage, with collections ranging from ancient Egyptian artifacts to contemporary works of art.

Lyon is also a foodie's paradise, with a thriving culinary scene and a large number of Michelin-starred restaurants. The city is famous for its traditional dishes such as "quenelles lyonnaises" and "poulet à la lyonnaise", and its local cuisine is considered to be among the best in France.

For those interested in outdoor activities, Lyon is surrounded by rolling hills and vineyards, making it a popular destination for bike rides and hikes. In the summer, visitors can also enjoy picnics along the river or take a relaxing boat trip to explore the nearby countryside.

Overall, Lyon is a wonderful destination for those seeking a taste of French history, culture, and cuisine. Whether you're interested in visiting historic landmarks, exploring the local art scene, or simply relaxing in a vibrant and dynamic setting, Lyon is the perfect place to visit.

There are several popular excursions and attractions nearby:

Basilique Notre-Dame de Fourvière: A basilica located in Lyon, known for its panoramic views of the city and its well-preserved architecture.

Parc de la Tête d'Or: A large park located in Lyon, featuring a lake, a botanical garden, and numerous recreational activities.

Vieux Lyon: The old town of Lyon, known for its well-preserved medieval architecture and its numerous restaurants serving traditional Lyonnaise cuisine.

Musée des Beaux-Arts: A museum located in Lyon, featuring a large collection of fine art, including works by famous artists such as Rubens and Tintoretto.

Confluence Museum: A museum located in the Confluence neighborhood of Lyon, dedicated to the history and culture of the city and the surrounding region.

Beaujolais Wine Region: A wine-producing region located about 30 kilometers north of Lyon, known for its production of Beaujolais wine and its scenic vineyards.

Rhône-Alpes: A region located in southeastern France, featuring scenic landscapes, historical towns, and a rich cultural heritage.

Parc des Oiseaux: A bird park located about 40 kilometers east of Lyon, featuring a large collection of birds from around the world and opportunities for birdwatching.

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With Scenic, it’s more than an ultra-luxury river cruise, it’s a seamless journey from start to finish that places you at the heart of everything we do.

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Truly unforgettable experiences  await

Our river cruises take you to extraordinary regions, while immersing you in the rich history, local cultures and culinary delicacies, creating moments that will be cherished for years to come. 

Discover river cruising with Scenic, for unrivalled experiences

From the historic waterways of Europe to the mighty Mekong River in South East Asia, a Scenic 5-star river cruise is in a class of its own. Every detail has been taken care of to the Nth Degree by our world-class crew so you can enjoy the benefits of a truly all-inclusive journey.

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The River Experience

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Photo gallery, select a departure date, available itineraries, idyllic rhône, spectacular south of france, we love to talk travel, why travel with adventure life, recognized by.

Ultra-Luxury River Cruises

With Scenic, it’s more than an ultra-luxury river cruise, it’s a seamless journey from start to finish that places you at the heart of everything we do.

• Previous page

Truly unforgettable experiences  await

Our river cruises take you to extraordinary regions, while immersing you in the rich history, local cultures, and culinary delicacies to create moments that will be cherished for years to come. 

To secure your space onboard or to get more information about our itineraries, call our friendly reservations team at 857-837-0439 or contact your professional travel advisor.

Discover river cruising with Scenic, for unrivaled experiences

From the historic waterways of Europe to the mighty Mekong River in Southeast Asia, a Scenic 5-star river cruise is in a class of its own. Every detail has been taken care of to the Nth Degree by our world-class crew so you can enjoy the benefits of a truly all-inclusive journey.

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The River Experience

Gems of the Danube

A river unlike any other

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A memorable discovery of the Danube

Jewels of Europe

The ultimate European river discovery

Normandy & Gems of the Seine

Take a journey down the river of dreams

Unforgettable Douro

A truly timeless place

Beautiful Bordeaux

Savour the beauty and romance

Essence of Cambodia, Vietnam & Luxury Mekong - 7 or 9 night cruise

South East Asia comes alive

Temple Discovery and Luxury Mekong Cruise - 7 or 9 night cruise

Captivating charm

Treasures of the Mekong - 7 or 9 night cruise

A waterway unlike any other

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River Cruises from Lyon

A cruise starting in Lyon is a great way to experience river cruising. We have 45 cruises that range from 4 days up to 15 days in length. The most popular time for river cruises leaving Lyon is June.

45 Lyon river cruises with 80 reviews

• River Cruise

Active & Discovery on the Rhône (Southbound) 2024

Active & Discovery on the Rhône (Southbound) 2025

Rhône Route Classique 2024 - A-ROSA STELLA

Large selection at the buffet, nice tour and good information.

Burgundy & Provence (2024) (Lyon to Arles, 2024)

Burgundy & Provence (2025) (Lyon to Arles, 2025)

Lyon to the Tip of Provence on the Rhône and Saône Rivers (port-to-port cruise)

All of the crew aboard Croisie's Van Gogh were delightfully helpful, the food excellent, and the scenery captivating.

Rhône Route Classique 2024 - A-ROSA STELLA (18 destinations)

A trip to admire the beautiful scenery of the Rhône valley (port-to-port cruise)

The ship and cabins where clean and efficient, the meals where very nice with the wine selection.

Treasures of Burgundy and Provence: Rhône & Saône (Lyon - Lyon)

Really enjoyed everything about it. Wonderful staff, food and excursions.

Colors of Provence 2024 Start Arles, End Lyon

Delightful South of France

Flavors of Burgundy 2025 Start Lyon, End Port of Dijon

Golf Cruise in the South of France (Lyon - Lyon)

All the must-see sites on the Rhône between Lyon, Provence, and the Camargue with a dinner at Paul Bocuse's Abbaye de Collonges Restaurant OFFERED (port-to-port cruise) (including Vienne)

The food is delicious but too much in quantity!

From Burgundy to the Camargue along the Saône and the Rhône Rivers (port-to-port cruise) (22 destinations)

Excellent cruise. Will love to do another in France with Croisi Europe.

What people love about River Cruise Tours from Lyon

Das Team hat stets unsere Wünsche uns erwartungen gänzlich erfüllt und war dabei immer freundlich und zuvorkommend. Das Essen war sehr delikat und abwechslungsreich. Auch die Ausflüge waren gut organisiert. Daher alles bestens!

We thoroughly enjoyed our cruise down the Rhone. All of the crew aboard Croisie's Van Gogh were delightfully helpful, the food excellent, and the scenery captivating. Special thanks to (Purser) Julie and the Chef and all waiting staff for attempting to manage an eating disorder one of us has.

the cabine room was a good size, the food was outstanding, land based tours were interesting and the service was fine

Travel Styles

River cruise from lyon.

• to Lyon (30)
• to Arles (6)
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Ultra-Luxury River Cruises

With Scenic, it’s more than an ultra-luxury river cruise, it’s a seamless journey from start to finish that places you at the heart of everything we do.

• Previous page

Truly unforgettable experiences  await

Our river cruises take you to extraordinary regions, while immersing you in the rich history, local cultures and culinary delicacies to create moments that will be cherished for years to come. 

Discover river cruising with Scenic, for unrivalled experiences

From the historic waterways of Europe to the mighty Mekong River in South East Asia, a Scenic 5-star river cruise is in a class of its own. Every detail has been taken care of to the Nth Degree by our world-class crew so you can enjoy the benefits of a truly all-inclusive journey.

Destinations

The River Experience

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Great Lakes Cruises

Discover natural wonders: from outstanding beauty to historic cities and a deep connection to nature, the Great Lakes are an undiscovered treasure, boasting stunning national parks best explored via tranquil kayaking and hiking. This area is also rich in culture, with world-class museums, vibrant cities and areas steeped in First Nations traditions.

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Canada & the Atlantic Coastline

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Longitudinal World Cruise II

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Highlights of great lakes cruises.

America’s Great Lakes are a little-known, unspoiled wonderland, boasting diverse natural beauty, scenic wildlife and some of the most interesting cities in North America. Over 750 miles across with 10,000 miles of coastline, the Great Lakes cover an area twice as large as Pennsylvania. Glide silently by kayak past otters in Georgian Bay, hear the roar of Niagara Falls, hike through verdant old forests or visit Canada’s prominent museums to marvel at art inspired by these shores. Here are some highlights you may experience during your journey:

• Explore the largest freshwater ecosystem on earth—the Great Lakes
• Watch for wildlife, from bald eagles to moose, bears and beavers
• Hike through stunning forests in this pristine environment
• Learn about Canada’s colonial past and the St. Lawrence River
• Kayak in stunning Georgian Bay—a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve
• View the world-class collection of the Milwaukee Art Museum
• Explore tranquil, scenic Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
• Transit engineering marvels like the Welland Canal and Soo Locks

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Ultra-Luxury River Cruises

With Scenic, it’s more than an ultra-luxury river cruise, it’s a seamless journey from start to finish that places you at the heart of everything we do.

• Previous page

Truly unforgettable experiences  await

Our river cruises take you to extraordinary regions, while immersing you in the rich history, local cultures, and culinary delicacies to create moments that will be cherished for years to come.

Discover river cruising with Scenic, for unrivalled experiences

From the historic waterways of Europe to the mighty Mekong River in South East Asia, a Scenic 5-star river cruise is in a class of its own. Every detail has been taken care of to the Nth Degree by our world-class crew so you can enjoy the benefits of a truly all-inclusive journey.

Destinations

The River Experience

Stay up to date and be inspired

Yes, please keep me updated with the latest special offers, travel inspiration, product updates and event invites.

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Scenic Gem River Cruise Review: Luxury Sailing on the Seine River

I was glad for my last minute decision to switch excursions when my guide showed up in character dressed as Richard the Lionheart for a hike to the hilltop Chateau Gaillard in Les Andelys, France. It was the first port stop on an 11-night Normandy & Gems of the Seine River cruise with Australian-based Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours .

The hike was fairly short but steep and along the way our group learned about the medieval king and area history from our knowledgeable and entertaining guide, Ben Bailey. From the hilltop, we could see the Seine River below, with our elegant ship, the Scenic Gem, waiting for us.

My travel partner was my young adult son, Michael, and this was our first river cruise in Europe. From the ship and crew to ports and excursions, the cruise exceeded our expectations. Here’s why I recommend sailing with Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours, and what I enjoyed about our ship, Scenic Gem.

About Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours

The Scenic name may not be familiar to some Americans but the company has been around since 1986. It was founded by Glen Moroney, who began operating coach tours throughout his native Australia. He launched the Scenic cruise line’s “Space-Ships” in 2008, introducing outside balconies to river boats for the first time. The Scenic Group also owns and operates ocean yachts and Emerald Waterways. River cruise itineraries include the waterways of the Danube, Rhine, Rhone and Seine.

Scenic Gem  Itinerary on the Seine River

Michael and I sailed on the Scenic Gem , one of three Scenic Space-Ships based in France. The roundtrip Scenic river cruise began in Paris and traveled to Les Andelys, Rouen, Honfleur, Caudebec-en-Caux, Vernon-Giverny and Conflans-Sainte-Honorine – with many adventures along the way. Scenic Gem’s small size makes it among the few river boats able to sail along the Seine to the English Channel.

The itinerary included three days in Paris . Pre- and post cruise extensions are available. We added additional days in Paris  at the back end of our cruise.

Embarkation couldn’t have been smoother. Within minutes of boarding, we got our room keys and were settled in our stateroom.

As we set sail, we had views of the Eiffel Tower and a smaller reproduction of the Statue of Liberty, which commemorates the centennial of the French Revolution.

Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours Amenities

Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours is a fully all-inclusive cruise line, with transfers and gratuities included.

And once you step onboard, you never need your credit card (except for a haircut or spa). The cruise line offers luxury experiences that include private butler service, free room service, unlimited complimentary beverages and spirits including a complimentary mini-bar restocked daily and full-size private balconies and sun lounges.

At the press of a button, the balcony window opens and closes and sliding glass panels can extend the room for more space or close for privacy. This feature enabled my son and I to have our own space in our stateroom when needed.

While I enjoyed morning coffee and freshly baked croissants served by our butler, Yasmin, on the balcony, Michael could sleep in. I loved having my breakfast delivered to me each morning. It was a relaxing way to start the day. Yasmin was also efficient in replenishing snacks and the mini-bar.

A little fun feature was the lighting in the shower. By turning the dial, you could adjust the lighting and color of the water.  

Convenient amenities included a pillow menu, one free laundry service per stateroom, free WiFi, and a refillable souvenir water bottle, which was handy for excursions.

Scenic Gem Excursions: Monet’s Garden

The option to choose shore excursions (included in the price) and change my mind last minute was one of my favorite features about Scenic. Often it was hard to choose between a guided bike ride or a walking tour.

Fortunately, Cruise Director Mandy Kinnell was always available to answer questions and offer suggestions about excursions and where to shop and eat in port stops (her tip to find the best oysters on the waterfront in Honfleur was spot on). Her role is extensive. She serves as program coordinator, concierge, organizing excursions, overseeing dietary requests, and more. “I love it. It’s not a job you can do if you don’t like it,” she said.

When I asked her about the difficulty level on a guided bike tour to Monet’s Garden in Vernon-Giverny, she assured me I could handle it. After all, she said, “I see you every morning doing stretch exercises with Paulina,” the onboard wellness coach.

The guided bike tour (led by Mandy) wound up being my favorite excursion. Scenic Gem has e-bikes onboard for tours and to explore villages on your own – another great feature. It began drizzling as we got on our bikes and put on ponchos. Contemplating the wet streets, I debated whether to stay or go. “Come on, get on,” said my new friend Elliot.

I was glad I did. The skies soon cleared up as our group of seven rode along the Seine River to Monet’s Garden, where we met up with fellow passengers who had opted for a bus ride. After walking through the beautiful colorful gardens that inspired his paintings, we toured Monet’s house. Then Elliot, Michael and I hopped on our e-bikes and rode to Au Coin du Paintre Giverny, a nearby bakery for warm, flaky croissants (another great Mandy tip). Riding bikes along the Seine River was simply magical.

Back onboard the Scenic Gem, we joined a painting class, in the style of impressionists, led by a local artist.

Scenic Gem  Excursions: History, Art & Music

Throughout the river cruise, we enjoyed many diverse shore excursions, which included visiting Van Gogh’s home and grave, and the site where Joan of Arc spent her last days. At the Somme Battlefields we walked through trenches where soldiers spent days at a time during WWI, and where, incredibly, there are still active land mines.

We also walked around the 330-foot long Lochnagar Crater, formed by an explosion during WWI. Two days later, we visited the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial, containing the graves of 9,387 soldiers. By then it began to rain, making for a cold and wet visit on our next stop: the Normandy Beaches of Utah and Omaha, site of the WWII D-Day Landings. This was the same weather soldiers endured during the military operation, said Ben (the same guide who was dressed as Richard the Lionheart and Rolo the Viking in Rouen). These somber excursions brought WWI and WWII history home.

“It makes me realize that these historical events aren’t as long ago as I thought,” said Michael.

Other excursions were laid back and scenic. On the drive to Etretat’s alabaster coastline, we drove through the French countryside by fields of potatoes, flax and grains before reaching the town known for coastal rock formations. Here, we saw typical Normandy timber frame houses built with thatched roofs.

The daily excursions were well-paced, allowing us time to enjoy onboard meals and activities. Afterall, part of the joy of river cruising is relaxing onboard and watching the passing scenery. Castles, rural communities and open green spaces. Plus, it was fascinating watching the river locks, which control water levels that raise and lower boats along the canals.

Scenic Enrich Cultural Experiences

One enchanting evening, we attended a private classical concert at the 12th century Chateau de La Rouche-Guyon, built into a steep rock face. This concert was an exclusive Scenic Enrich cultural event for Scenic Gem cruise passengers.

From the ship, we walked through a garden and to the castle for a wine reception before the lovely concert. Scenic Enrich events vary with the ship and itinerary.

Scenic Gem Activities

The ship’s intimate size made it easy to mingle with fellow passengers in the Panorama Lounge, the main venue for evening drinks, games, programs and entertainment.

On the sun deck, we played a challenging game of cornhole and other activities organized by Vili, enrichment manager.

Dining on Scenic Gem

The dining options on Scenic Gem were varied and featured French, American and international cuisine. For a quick meal, we ate at the casual River Cafe, which serves breakfast items, sandwiches, pizzas, soups and desserts (and macaroons!) at the bow of the ship. I enjoyed the nice daily selection of cheeses, olives and bread.

Mostly we ate in the Crystal Dining Room, where tables for four to eight made it conducive for conversation while enjoying appetizers, a main course, cheese and dessert. Among tapas, there was Quiche Lorraine, marinated brie cheese and cream of celery root. Entrees included coq au vin, pasta and steak. And even tasty cheeseburgers and fries.

One evening an elaborate French dessert buffet was prepared by a local patissier. On another day, there was a delightful cheese and wine tasting. And after our walking tour in Rouen, a delicious barbecue was served on the sundeck.

Since the ship carries no more than 149 passengers, most people get to experience at least one specialty dinner. At the L’Amour Restaurant, located at the bow, we indulged in a five-course meal paired with imported and French wines. We were thrilled to get invited  to Table La Rive, a private chef’s dinner with seven courses in the Crystal Dining Room. There is no extra charge for these dinners but reservations are required.  It’s worth noting that the chef accommodates various dietary preferences. So be sure to inform the cruise director.

 Too soon, our cruise was over and it was time to say au revoir to our crew. Michael and I both enjoyed the leisurely focus on one country. Sailing along the Seine enabled us to visit numerous pretty storybook villages and to gain a better understanding of France’s history and culture. And to meet interesting characters like Richard the Lionheart.

The post Scenic Gem River Cruise Review: Luxury Sailing on the Seine River appeared first on She Buys Travel .

6 Regions Around the World Best Seen on a River Cruise

River cruising has experienced phenomenal growth over the past two decades in part because it’s a more convenient alternative to land-based bus tours. Your home-away-from-home moves with you over the course of a week or longer, meaning you unpack only once while exploring a variety of exciting cities and enchanting small towns. You’ll also enjoy superb onboard cuisine and get to know your fellow cruisers. Of course, this is only possible where rivers flow and cruise lines sail, so here’s a look at six regions around the world best seen on a river cruise.

Cambodia & Vietnam

Flowing for almost 3,000 miles through Southeast Asia, the mighty Mekong is a living mosaic of century-spanning sights, from lavish palaces and UNESCO World Heritage Site temples to ramshackle villages and surreally green rice paddies. Most Mekong River cruises sail between Siem Reap, Cambodia, and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, from August to April, since low river levels and hot weather make May to July difficult for travel.

Highlights of these cruises, which range from seven to 13 nights, include the Cambodian capital, Phnom Penh, with its Silver Pagoda and sobering genocide museum detailing the “Killing Fields” era of the 1970s Pol Pot regime. Cambodia’s more mystical destination is Angkor Wat, the superbly carved stone temple complex outside of Siem Reap built as early as the 9th century. 

In Vietnam, Ho Chi Minh City, the country’s largest city, sometimes still referred to as Saigon, is a mix of French-colonial architecture, Parisian-style boulevards, stunning pagodas, and modern skyscrapers. Smaller villages along the Mekong’s Vietnamese side offer a look at the daily life of farmers, fishermen, and handicraft makers, complete with floating markets and rickshaws.

Which river lines cruise Cambodia & Vietnam?

AmaWaterways, Aqua Expeditions, Avalon Waterways, Emerald Waterways, Scenic, Uniworld, and Viking.

The allure of cruising the Nile River to see the temples of Luxor, the Valley of the Kings, and Abu Simbel in southern Egypt is undeniable. Add on a few nights in Cairo to visit the Pyramids of Giza and the newly opened Grand Egyptian Museum before or after your seven-night cruise and it’s a truly bucket-list trip for anyone fascinated by ancient history.

There are just a handful of primary ports on most Nile River cruises. After arriving in Cairo, you’ll fly to Luxor to board your ship, which will be notably smaller than those sailing the major rivers of Europe. From Luxor, you’ll visit the riverfront temples of Karnak and Luxor and delve into the lore of King Tut and Queen Hatshepsut. More ancient treasures wait in Edfu and Qena. In Aswan, Egypt’s southernmost city, you’ll gaze out on mesmerizing desert landscapes that frame lush mid-river islands, visit the two-mile-wide Aswan High Dam, or enjoy an Abu Simbal excursion to see the two massive rock-cut temples.

Which river lines cruise Egypt?

AmaWaterways, Avalon Waterways, Uniworld, and Viking.

Cruising the Amazon River is an altogether unique experience, more wildlife safari and rainforest immersion than history lesson. While small luxury cruise ships can explore the river’s larger sections from the Atlantic Ocean to Manaus, Brazil, it’s the Peruvian Amazon that takes center stage for luxury river cruises lasting three, four, or seven nights. Here, on meandering tributaries, these vessels, typically accommodating no more than 30 to 40 guests, get into the heart of the Amazon from the city of Iquitos.

Each day is an adventure as you explore with a guide in a motorized skiff. You’ll spy on monkeys and sloths in the treetops and watch pink-hued river dolphins swim through the greenish-brown water. Hiking along verdant trails, you’ll spot tiny poisonous tree frogs and later enjoy a Champagne toast amid a picturesque quilt of water lilies at sunset. You may also fish for carnivorous piranha by day and search for giant anacondas after dark. 

Which river lines cruise The Amazon?

Aqua Expeditions, Avalon Waterways, Lindblad Expeditions, and Uniworld.

The Mississippi

If cruising closer to home appeals, it doesn’t get any closer than this. The Mississippi River , which winds its way for 2,340 miles through 10 states, from Louisiana in the south to Minnesota in the north, is a terrific option that will immerse you in the history, music, food, and architecture of America’s Heartland. 

Some vessels are sleek river ships while others are retro-inspired paddle wheelers. If you have 15 days, you can cruise the river’s entire length, from New Orleans to St. Paul (or vice versa). You can also opt for a Lower Mississippi or Upper Mississippi sailing that lasts seven to nine days. With the former, you can do a New Orleans roundtrip and visit historic cities in Mississippi and Louisiana that include Natchez, Vicksburg, Baton Rouge, and St. Francisville, or add on Memphis, Tennessee, with a one-way itinerary to or from New Orleans. On an Upper Mississippi sailing, you’ll start in either St. Louis or St. Paul and visit riverfront cities such as Hannibal, Missouri; Davenport, Iowa; La Crosse, Wisconsin; and Red Wing, Minnesota. Which section you choose will dictate when you go, since Upper Mississippi and Full Mississippi sailings are only offered from June to October while Lower Mississippi itineraries are year-round.

Which river lines cruise the Mississippi?

American Cruise Lines and Viking.

Central Europe

No other region is home to as many navigable rivers and must-see historic cities, from Amsterdam, Antwerp, Vienna, and Cologne in the north to Paris, Bordeaux, Lyon, and Porto in the west. In Germany, Switzerland, Slovakia, Austria, the Netherlands, Belgium, France, and Portugal rivers connect these vibrant cities with dozens of smaller towns featuring landmark castles, lavish cathedrals, and charming old towns. 

Central Europe’s top rivers include the Rhine, Rhone, Seine, Douro, and Danube. Dozens of cruise itineraries along these waterways immerse you in history, culinary traditions, wine-making, art, architecture, and natural beauty. Picture a living mosaic of tulips in April along the waterways of Belgium and Holland or gliding past the terraced vineyards of Portugal’s Douro Valley during the grape harvest in September. Mix history and art as you explore rogue papacies, Roman amphitheaters, and French wine along the Rhone in the South of France or tour the palaces and cathedrals of the Austro-Hungarian Empire on the Danube.

What can you expect on each river? Here’s an intro:

The  Danube , which flows through 10 countries from southern Germany to the Black Sea, is ideal for anyone with an interest in history, art, and architecture. On an Upper Danube itinerary, you’ll  visit capital cities  Budapest, Vienna, and Bratislava (Slovakia), as well as smaller Austrian cities and towns like Linz, Durnstein, and Melk. Day trips to lofty Salzburg or the picturesque Czech town of Cesky Krumlov are also possible. Most cruises begin or end in the Bavaria region of Germany, so a stay in Munich can cap off the trip.

The  Rhine , which begins in the Swiss Alps and runs to the North Sea near Rotterdam, offers views of storybook castles and vineyards set against a backdrop that is among the most stunning in river cruising. Cities on a Rhine itinerary can include Basel, Switzerland; Strasbourg, France; Cologne, Germany; and Amsterdam. In between are wine-making hamlets such as Rüdesheim am Rhein and Bamberg in Germany, plus scenic Kinderdijk in the Netherlands, home to centuries-old windmills.

The  Rhone , which meanders from food-centric Lyon all the way to the Mediterranean in the South of France, is chock full of delights. These include the Roman arena and medieval streets of Arles (also famous as the setting for some of Vincent Van Gogh’s most notable paintings), the papal intrigue of Avignon, the wine-making excellence around Tournon-sur-Rhône, and the truffle treasures of Viviers. 

The  Seine , which flows north through Paris to the English Channel, is equally intriguing, especially to history buffs and art lovers. On these cruises, you can explore the museums and landmarks of the French capital, wander Claude Monet’s gardens at Giverny, and see buildings and landscapes painted by Van Gogh in Auvers-sur-Oise (where he’s also buried). You can also walk the medieval streets of Rouen, where Joan of Arc was burned at the stake and Monet painted the Gothic cathedral, before visiting Honfleur, a seaside hamlet favored by Impressionists, as well as the D-Day beaches of Normandy and the American Cemetery, resting place of 9,387 fallen soldiers.

The  Dordogne and Garonne rivers , located in the Bordeaux wine-making region of France, offer a heady immersion for oenophiles — from the historic bustle of the city of Bordeaux to the bucolic ambiance of wine-making hamlets such as St.-Emilion, Pauillac, and Cadillac.

The  Douro River  in northern Portugal is another mecca for  wine lovers . Riverboats cruise from atmospheric Porto, home to historic port wine cellars, to small towns such as Pinhão and Régua, set amid pastoral hillside vineyards.

Central Europe also has two lesser-known rivers. The  Elbe River  flows through the former East Germany and offers access to Berlin, Potsdam, and Dresden, as well as nearby Prague in the Czech Republic. The waterways of  Holland and Belgium  attract garden lovers each spring with millions of tulips, historic windmills, and the chocolate and beer abundant in Belgian cities like Brussels, Antwerp, and Bruges.

Which river lines cruise Central Europe?

Check out AmaWaterways, Avalon Waterways, Emerald Waterways, Riverside, Scenic, Tauck, Uniworld, and Viking.

Eastern Europe

While exploring Central Europe is more popular, Eastern Europe has plenty to offer in the way of lesser-known but history-rich countries like Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, and Romania. The Danube River passes through all six and Lower Danube itineraries generally begin in Budapest, Hungary, and end in Bucharest, Romania (or vice versa). 

Here’s what you’ll see along the way:

In Hungary, the contrast between the stately architecture of Budapest and the port of Kalocsa couldn’t be greater. Known for paprika production and embroidered handicrafts, this city and its surrounding countryside are also the place to experience cowboy culture (the energetic but touristy Puszta Horse Show is a popular excursion) and the Hajós-Baja wine region (Hungarian wines are quite good, so wine-tasting is a commendable option).

Croatia, which most people know for its historic ports on the Adriatic coast, also has a port on the Danube. Vukovar is the gateway to Osijek, located about 45 minutes away. Both cities were heavily damaged during the Balkan wars of the 1990s, but many buildings in Osijek’s historic Baroque center were spared or have been restored. Here you can visit the Church of St. Peter and Paul with its 295-foot steeple and pedestrian-only Holy Trinity Square in the Old Town known as Tvrda.

Belgrade, the former capital of Yugoslavia and current capital of Serbia, is one of Europe’s oldest cities. Its architecture ranges from charming 17th-century buildings set on the cobblestone streets of Old Town (a short stroll from the port) to dour Communist block structures. Don’t miss the Belgrade Fortress (it was destroyed 40 times, and what remains is mainly from the Ottoman period), the Nikola Tesla Museum, and the massive Church of Saint Sava with its lavish gilded crypt. 

Bulgaria may offer up the most surprises. One of the region’s least wealthy countries, it is full of scenic beauty and unique sights. River ships call on Vidin, home to Fortress Bab Vida, for excursions to the striking, red-hued Belogradchick Rocks. You’ll also call on Ruse for an all-day scenic excursion to Veliko Tarnovo, a medieval town and fortress built into the cliffs of the Yantra River. Back on the Danube, you’ll marvel at the Iron Gates, a series of gorges that are one of Europe’s natural wonders, as you cruise through them.

You’ll board or disembark your cruise about an hour outside of the Romanian capital. Bucharest is a city of contrasts, known as the “Paris of the East” for its stately boulevards (it even has an Arc de Triomphe). It's also home to the massive Palace of the Parliament, built by notorious mid-20th-century dictator Nicolae Ceausescu. Many cruisers also add on pre- or post-cruise tour to the historic towns and castles of nearby Transylvania.

Which river lines cruise Eastern Europe?

AmaWaterways, Avalon Waterways, Emerald Waterways, Scenic, Tauck, Uniworld, and Viking.

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