10 Best German River Cruises on the Rhine for 2025-2026

Name: Germany Tours & Travel
Brand: Adventure Life
Rating: 4.8 (407 reviews)

10 Best German Cruises on the Danube River for 2025-2026

Trip Name	From	Days	Next Departure	Summary
Magna on the Danube - Budapest to Vilshofen	$3299	8	Mar 9, 2025	Embark on an 8-day river cruise from Budapest to Vilshofen aboard MS AmaMagna. Enjoy captivating architecture, music, and culinary experiences. … 0
Danube Waltz	$2299	8	Apr 1, 2025	View the beauty of five different European countries and explore lesser-known Central European cities like Bratislava and Passau during this 8-day … 0
The Legendary Danube	$4674	11	Apr 20, 2025	Fall in love with the Danube on this 14-day Danube River cruise aboard the MS Amasonata. Discover some of the most important cities such as … 0
Gems of the Danube	$9566	8	Apr 18, 2025	Enjoy an 8-day luxury cruise from Nuremberg to Budapest aboard the 5-star luxury Scenic Amber. Explore some of the most beautiful cities of central … 0
Classic Prague & Danube Delights	$7710	11	Sep 6, 2025	Take an 11-day trip from Prague to Budapest and experience the Classic Prague and Danube Delights. Enjoy a 3-night stay and a whole day of … 0
Danube Delights	$7090	8	Apr 10, 2025	Explore and sail along the second longest river in the continent on this 8-day Danube Delights Cruise from Munich to Budapest aboard the Emerald … 0
Christmas Markets on the Danube - Cruise Only	$3699	8	Dec 21, 2024	Join the Amasonata on this unique once-per-year 8-day Christmas cruise from Budapest to Vilshofen. In each town along the way, you'll feel the old … 0
The Romantic Danube - Cruise Only	$3299	8	Dec 28, 2024	Cruise eastern Europe on this 8-day itinerary along the romantic Danube from Vilshofen to Budapest aboard the MS Amasonata, stopping in cities like … 0
Danube Holiday Markets	$4199	8	Dec 2, 2025	Aboard S.S. Maria Theresa on this 8-day Danube river cruise, music lovers will find many special holiday treats, from onboard caroling to an … 0
The Legendary Danube - Cruise Only	$3699	8	Apr 23, 2025	Board the luxurious MS Amasonata on this exclusive 8-day cruise of the Danube River. From Nuremberg, you will sail through Germany and Austria before … 0

Moselle River

10 Best Moselle River Cruises for 2025-2026

Trip Name	From	Days	Next Departure	Summary
Classic Cruise – Germany & Luxembourg	$10725	7	Aug 24, 2025	Onboard La Nouvelle Etoile, sail through the beautiful canals of Germany and Luxembourg for seven days, stopping at quaint towns along the way. While … 0
Rhine & Moselle Fairytales - Cruise Only	$4999	12	Jul 2, 2025	Board the MS Amaprima for an 11-night cruise from Amsterdam to Zurich. Enjoy an extensive lineup of included tours and in many cases, choose between … 0
Rhine & Moselle Fairytales	$7589	18	Jun 30, 2025	Join the MS Amaprima on this unique adventure starting with an 11-night cruise from Amsterdam to Zurich, followed by three magical nights in Zurich. … 0
The Valley of the romantic Rhine, the Moselle and the Main	$1575	7	Jul 7, 2025	Explore the enchanting cities of Strasbourg, Frankfurt, Cochem, Koblenz, Rudesheim and Mannheim on this 7-day river cruise aboard the MS Gérard … 0
Rhine Castles & Moselle Vineyards	$10590	11	Jul 15, 2025	Embark on an 11-day Rhine Castles & Moselle Vineyards Cruise from Amsterdam to Zurich on Emerald Sky. Discover landscapes adorned along the Rhine & … 0
Rhine & Moselle Delights - Cruise Only	$4999	11		Begin this exclusive 11-day cruise in Basel and conclude in charming Amsterdam. This voyage includes a large variety of activities so that you can … 0
Europe's Rivers & Castles - Cruise Only	$4239	8	Jul 2, 2025	Embark on an 8-day Europe's Rivers & Castles Cruise from Nuremberg to Luxembourg aboard MS Amacerto. Visit UNESCO-listed sites and charming towns … 0
The Rhine & Moselle (Northbound)	$5599	11	May 27, 2025	Embark on an 11-day cruise aboard the Avalon Imagery II. Explore the Rhine and Moselle Rivers, starting in Basel. Discover charming cities in … 0
Rhine & Moselle Splendors - Cruise Only	$3899	8	Jul 16, 2025	Starting in the tiny country of Luxembourg, this 8-day river cruise aboard the MS Amacerto takes you through Germany, France, and Switzerland along … 0
Romantic Rhine & Moselle	$20744	15	Oct 14, 2026	Cruise the Rhine and Moselle rivers for 15 days aboard Scenic Ruby, from Basel to Koblenz. Discover medieval villages, historic castles, and Trier's … 0

German Luxury Cruises

10 Best Luxury Germany River Cruises for 2025-2026

Trip Name	From	Days	Next Departure	Summary
The Enchanting Rhine - From Zurich to Amsterdam	$5059	12	Mar 22, 2025	After spending two nights in both Zurich and Lucerne, Switzerland, board the MS Amaprima on an exclusive 7-day Rhine River cruise through the … 0
The Legendary Danube	$4674	11	Apr 20, 2025	Fall in love with the Danube on this 14-day Danube River cruise aboard the MS Amasonata. Discover some of the most important cities such as … 0
Rhine & Moselle Fairytales - Cruise Only	$4999	12	Jul 2, 2025	Board the MS Amaprima for an 11-night cruise from Amsterdam to Zurich. Enjoy an extensive lineup of included tours and in many cases, choose between … 0
Classic Prague & Danube Delights	$7710	11	Sep 6, 2025	Take an 11-day trip from Prague to Budapest and experience the Classic Prague and Danube Delights. Enjoy a 3-night stay and a whole day of … 0
The Rhine & Moselle (Northbound)	$5599	11	May 27, 2025	Embark on an 11-day cruise aboard the Avalon Imagery II. Explore the Rhine and Moselle Rivers, starting in Basel. Discover charming cities in … 0
Rhine & Moselle Fairytales	$7589	18	Jun 30, 2025	Join the MS Amaprima on this unique adventure starting with an 11-night cruise from Amsterdam to Zurich, followed by three magical nights in Zurich. … 0
Rhine Castles & Moselle Vineyards	$10590	11	Jul 15, 2025	Embark on an 11-day Rhine Castles & Moselle Vineyards Cruise from Amsterdam to Zurich on Emerald Sky. Discover landscapes adorned along the Rhine & … 0
Splendours of Europe	$11590	15	Jun 3, 2025	Join this 15-day Splendors of Europe cruise on the Emerald Sky from Amsterdam to Budapest. Cruise through the Netherlands, Germany, Austria, … 0
Splendours of Europe	$11590	15	Aug 23, 2025	Embark on the 15-day Splendours of Europe cruise aboard the Emerald Destiny, traveling from Amsterdam to Budapest. Discover the wonders of the … 0
Splendours of Europe	$11190	15	Apr 26, 2025	Sail on a 15-day Splendour of Europe cruise from Amsterdam to Budapest aboard Emerald Sun. Explore Amsterdam's canals, cafés, & art galleries. … 0

All German Barge Cruises

10 German Barge Cruises for 2025-2026

All German Barge Cruises

The Enchanting Rhine - From Zurich to Amsterdam

12 Days from $5,059

Magna on the Danube - Budapest to Vilshofen

Budapest to Vilshofen
8 Days from $3,299

Embark on an 8-day river cruise from Budapest to Vilshofen aboard MS AmaMagna. Enjoy captivating architecture, music, and culinary experiences. Explore Vienna's Baroque gems, savor epicurean delights, and discover vibrant cultures in Budapest and Bratislava.

Castles along the Rhine

Basel - Amsterdam
8 Days from $4,099

Classic Cruise – Germany & Luxembourg

7 Days from $10,725

Onboard La Nouvelle Etoile, sail through the beautiful canals of Germany and Luxembourg for seven days, stopping at quaint towns along the way. While driving through Trier, the oldest city in Germany, the Porta Nigra, and Pauli Bergweiler's wine cellars are just a few of the numerous historical landmarks to see.

Schloss Neuschwanstein overlooks the green countryside

Europe's Rivers & Castles - Cruise Only

Nuremberg - Luxembourg
8 Days from $4,239

Embark on an 8-day Europe's Rivers & Castles Cruise from Nuremberg to Luxembourg aboard MS Amacerto. Visit UNESCO-listed sites and charming towns such as Bernkastel, Cochem, Wertheim, and Rothenburg. Experience the rich history and culture while enjoying Rheingau wines and Bamberg smoked beer.

Rhine Getaway

Amsterdam to Basel
8 Days from $2,199

Enjoy a cozy Christmas Market in Frankfurt

Christmastime in Alsace and Germany

Frankfurt to Basel
5 Days from $2,619

Enjoy this magical time of year with a Christmastime Rhine River cruise vacation starting in Frankfurt, cruising through the heart of Germany, and ending in Basel aboard the Avalon Panorama. Visit Breisach, Strasbourg, Speyer, and Heidelberg.

Enjoy a quiet moment on the banks of the Danube

Gems of the Danube

Nuremberg to Budapest
8 Days from $9,566

Enjoy an 8-day luxury cruise from Nuremberg to Budapest aboard the 5-star luxury Scenic Amber. Explore some of the most beautiful cities of central Europe: visit Regensburg, Salzburg, Durnstein, Melk, and Vienna. Wander ancient castles, sample local beers, or bike along the river on this delightful cruise along the beautiful Danube.

The Legendary Danube

11 Days from $4,674

Fall in love with the Danube on this 14-day Danube River cruise aboard the MS Amasonata. Discover some of the most important cities such as Nuremberg, Regensburg, Passau, Linz, Vienna, and Budapest, and select from a large variety of daily activities and excursions. As you cruise through Eastern Germany, don't miss the excellent Bavarian cuisine!

Rhine Highlights

Amsterdam-Basel
8 Days from $9,090

Germany River Cruise Tips & Travel Guide

Highlights of Germany

The customs and traditions of Germany come alive on our tours of this ancient country. Each town is full of unique treasures of European culture. Whether you're cruising the Rhine or the Danube River, you're sure to be delighted by the charming communities of:

Regensburg - the best preserved medieval city in Germany, located at the northernmost point of the Danube River.
Cologne – home of one of the most iconic twin-spired Gothic churches of Germany on the Rhine.
Berlin - a modern metropolis, is the main departure point for cruises on the Elbe river.
Mainz & Worms – home to old fashioned Romanesque cathedrals, museums, and a tranquil atmosphere for an evening stroll
Koblenz – great for hiking, biking, or visiting the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress.
Nuremburg – characteristic of the whole Bavaria region, especially the medieval Old Town, Kaiserburg Castle, and the Hauptmarkt central square.
Bamberg - a gem of Germany's medieval past on the Main River.
Rüdesheim - bike and gondolier your way through this traditional wine-making city
Cochem - on the Moselle River, is one of Germany's most quaint towns and the 1,000-year-old Cochem Castle is the city’s signature landmark.
Passau - a major port on the Danube River and the Austrian border.
Mannheim – home to castles, a Baroque palace and a modern city on the Rhine.

Cologne's famous cathedral at sunset from the Rhine.

Top 10 Things to Do in Munich - Must-See Attractions & Experiences

Discover the top 10 things to do and see in Munich, from historic landmarks to vibrant beer gardens and bustling markets.

Best Time to Visit Germany

The best time to visit Germany is during the spring and early fall, but only during certain months. May, September, and October are the best months to visit by far. Every spring, festivals of all shapes and sizes take place around the country leading up to Oktoberfest in the fall, and during the month of May is when Germany begins to warm up.

Top 15 Ports to Visit on a Rhine River Cruise - Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Cologne & More!

Embark on a Rhine River cruise and explore the top 15 ports, including Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Cologne, and more!

Best Times of Year to Take a River Cruise in Germany

The most pleasant temperatures for river cruising in Germany are in the spring months of April and May, as well as the fall months of September and October. River levels are another concern, and while a river cruise itinerary may change due to river levels and weather at any time of the year, the fall tends to have more stable river levels. Our vote for the best months to cruise Germany are September and October.

Being the prime months, cruises in September in October need to be reserved many months in advance, as the riverboats fill up fast.

Christmas is a special time to cruise Germany as specialized Christmas market cruises take travelers down the Rhine and Danube. Most cruise lines do not run river cruises during the months of January and February.

River Levels and Itinerary Changes

River levels are quite unpredictable at any time of the year and excessively high river levels prevent our riverboats from passing under bridges, while low water levels can make sections of rivers impassable in times of relative drought. Here's an updated summary of European river levels. Heavy rains upstream can make river levels change quickly, sometimes forcing itinerary changes. The captain of your riverboat will make the best decision given the current conditions to guarantee passenger safety and an optimal trip experience given the conditions. It is a good idea to be in touch with your Adventure Life agent in the days before your trip and keep an eye on the weather to minimize surprises.

Holidays Traditions Around the Globe

From Asia to Europe to Latin America, each country celebrates their holidays in a unique way with distinct traditions. Guatemala, Ecuador, Japan, Germany, and other Adventure Life destinations will show you how a wonderful mix of cultures celebrates Christmas, Hanukkah, and the New Year.

Take a ride on the ferris wheel or take a stroll through the Christmas Market

Cruising Europe Christmas Markets

Explore the enchanting Christmas Markets throughout Germany, Austria and Hungary on your Europe river cruise. Drink hot mulled wine as you meander through these traditional street markets. This is sure to be a charming, festive way to spend the holiday.

Immerse yourself in the romance of Italy

When to Visit Europe: Seasons & Temperatures

Europe is a wonderful year-round destination depending on where you want to explore. The summer is the most popular season across the continent, but the fall and spring shoulder months can offer some great deals and less tourist traffic. Read more about each region of Europe and when to go.

German Christmas Markets Traveler Reviews

European River Cruise - Christmas Markets in Germany!

German River Cruising FAQs

Why should I choose a river cruise?
A river cruise is a great comprehensive way to visit various countries in Europe. Unlike land tours where you might have to travel by train or bus during the day, cruises take advantage of the evenings and nights to do the major traveling and allow you to use your days to visit the destinations and sites. Plus, once you're onboard, the cruises are mostly all-inclusive. If you want to add on a helicopter tour or some kind of extension, then that might cost you more money, but the meals, lodging, transportation, and most tours on the itinerary are included in the price, making it not only an excellent value but also much easier to plan. Plus, unlike land tours of Europe, you don't have to pack and unpack every day when you move to a new city - your room simply glides along the river with you.
What should I look for on a riverboat?
Unlike mega-yachts, bigger cruise ships, or expedition vessels, river boats are comparatively simple. They feature comfortable rooms, but they are not particularly spacious. You won't likely find gyms (maybe an exercise room), large pools (if any), or various dining options, but you will find that the vessels are well appointed and have friendly crews and guides that are enthusiastic to make your experience memorable.
Are there 5-star river vessels in Europe?
Since river cruising is a relatively new trend in European travel, the best river vessels could best be described as 4-stars due to their size and lack of amenities. However, there are a number of vessels that we feature that could very aptly be called luxurious based on their accommodations, social areas, and gourmet cuisine. We expect that in the coming years, competition among the vessels will drive the quality up and more 5-star vessels will soon be on the European waterways.
Should I get a room with a balcony?
Contrary to popular belief, balconies are not actually that important for European river cruises. All vessels feature a panoramic sun deck where you can take in the beautiful views, but as far as the rooms go, balconies might actually take away from the square footage of your cabin. Length requirements of river vessels mean that cabins tend to be smaller than on the sea-going ships, and balconies can often cut into the room itself. If you want a room that gives you exclusive access to the open air, then consider looking for rooms with sliding glass doors and wall-to-wall windows. These are a good alternative to balconies and save considerable space in your cabin.
What is dining like?
There will likely be one main dining room that serves meals on a certain schedule that coincides with your itinerary. Food is prepared by skilled local chefs and will nourish you as you explore and discover German culture and history.
Do river cruises ever visit destinations that aren't on the river?
Absolutely! So many of Germany's destinations are not actually on the Rhine, Main, or Danube Rivers. In order to access these sites, you will dock at one of the port cities along the river and enjoy a luxurious coach ride towards the destination, during which time you can see even more of the lush countryside.
Will my vessel have WiFi?
Don't count on having WiFi throughout the entire cruise. While visiting cities, it's likely that you will find hotspots, and certain vessels are able to offer frequent access. However, there might be times when you are out of range of the signal and you might be without internet for up to several days at a time.
What kind of power outlets are there? Will I need a converter?
European electric is 220 volts, compared to the 110 volts in North America. Most devices are equipped to deal with both voltages. However, you will need a plug adapter if you have the standard 2-prong American plugs - depending on where your boat is from in Europe, it will have either the British plugs (three flat prongs) or the continental European outlets (2 round prongs). A couple simple adapters are all you need, but we suggest wrapping duct tape around the adapter and the plug to make sure you don't forget them when you disconnect the device.
How can I save money on a river cruise?
We offer many great deals for river cruises through Germany. These are the best options for saving up to thousands of dollars on your river expedition. Avoid saving money by choosing less expensive cabins. The difference of a couple hundred dollars can actually negatively impact your experience if you decide on a cabin that is smaller or does not have large windows that open, for example.
Are river cruises in Germany a good family vacation?
Definitely! Whether you are exploring the country's traditional Christmas Markets in December or learning about its contemporary and ancient history, the sights and flavors of Germany make for a fantastic family destination. Younger kids will delight in the fairytale castles, while teens and parents can appreciate the impressive architecture of the centuries-old buildings. It's a great way to immerse your family in the Old World culture, history, and folklore.
Do Americans and Canadians need a passport and visa to travel to Germany?
All citizens of North America traveling to Europe need a passport that is valid for at least 6 months. In recent years, it has not been necessary to apply for a visa before traveling to Europe if you plan to stay less than three months, however, this situation may change in the future. See current European visa requirements.

Germany River Cruises

10 Best German River Cruises on the Rhine for 2025-2026