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Germany River Cruises

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Germany
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Discover charming Heidelberg
Breisach
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Discover the famous wine town of Bernkastel
Cochem
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Explore the small medieval town of Cochem
Heidelberg
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Visit the enchanting Heidelberg
Rudesheim
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Explore the famous vineyards of Rudesheim
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The best way to experience Germany is on a river cruise along the enchanting Rhine, Danube, Moselle, Main, or Elbe Rivers. You'll float past majestic castles and modern cities, taste world-class wines, explore medieval villages and ride bicycles through the quaint German countryside on virtually every river cruise in the country. The most popular river cruises in Germany are on the Rhine and Danube Rivers. The mighty Rhine flows from Switzerland northwest through the German heartland entering the Atlantic at Amsterdam. The Danube flows from the Black Forest to the port cities of Regensberg and Passau through eastern Europe flowing into the Black Sea. Some cruises include the Rhine, Main, Main-Danube Canal, and the Danube in one cruise that takes about 2 weeks. Cruises on the Moselle River are often combined with the Rhine.
All Cruises in Germany

10 Best German River Cruises on the Rhine for 2024-2025

All Cruises in Germany
Danube River

10 Best German Cruises on the Danube River for 2024-2025

Trip NameFromDaysNext DepartureSummary
Magna on the Danube - Budapest to Vilshofen$32998Oct 27, 2024Embark on an 8-day river cruise from Budapest to Vilshofen aboard MS AmaMagna. Enjoy captivating architecture, music, and culinary experiences. …
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Danube Waltz$22998Oct 13, 2024View the beauty of five different European countries and explore lesser-known Central European cities like Bratislava and Passau during this 8-day …
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The Legendary Danube$467411Apr 20, 2025Fall 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 …
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Gems of the Danube$94908 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 …
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Classic Prague & Danube Delights$771011Oct 11, 2024Take 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 …
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Danube Delights$70908Oct 29, 2024Explore and sail along the second longest river in the continent on this 8-day Danube Delights Cruise from Munich to Budapest aboard the Emerald …
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Christmas Markets on the Danube - Cruise Only$36998Dec 21, 2024Join 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 …
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The Romantic Danube - Cruise Only$32998Oct 9, 2024Cruise eastern Europe on this 8-day itinerary along the romantic Danube from Vilshofen to Budapest aboard the MS Amasonata, stopping in cities like …
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Danube Holiday Markets$41998Dec 2, 2024Aboard S.S. Maria Theresa on this 8-day Danube river cruise, music lovers will find many special holiday treats, from onboard caroling to an …
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Magna on the Danube - Cruise only$33998Oct 20, 2024Embark on an 8-day river cruise from Vilshofen to Budapest aboard MS AmaMagna. Enjoy captivating architecture, music, and culinary experiences. …
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Moselle River

10 Best Moselle River Cruises for 2024-2025

Trip NameFromDaysNext DepartureSummary
Classic Cruise – Germany & Luxembourg$95547Oct 6, 2024Onboard La Nouvelle Etoile, sail through the beautiful canals of Germany and Luxembourg for seven days, stopping at quaint towns along the way. While …
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Charming Castles & Vineyards of the Rhine & Moselle$94908 Indulge in an 8-day cruise aboard Scenic Pearl through the Charming Castles and vineyards of the Rhine & Moselle. Explore Breisach's post-WWII …
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4 Rivers: The Moselle, Sarre, Romantic Rhine, and Neckar Valleys$21487Oct 15, 2024Take this 7-day cruise aboard MS Leonard De Vinci exploring stunning cities that lies on the rivers of Moselle, Sarre, Rhine and Neckar Valleys. Get …
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Rhine & Moselle Fairytales - Cruise Only$499912Jul 2, 2025Board 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 …
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Rhine & Moselle Fairytales$758918Jun 30, 2025Join the MS Amaprima on this unique adventure starting with an 11-night cruise from Amsterdam to Zurich, followed by three magical nights in Zurich. …
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The Valley of the romantic Rhine, the Moselle and the Main$26107Oct 6, 2024Explore the enchanting cities of Strasbourg, Frankfurt, Cochem, Koblenz, Rudesheim and Mannheim on this 7-day river cruise aboard the MS Gérard …
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Rhine Castles & Moselle Vineyards$1059011Jul 15, 2025Embark on an 11-day Rhine Castles & Moselle Vineyards Cruise from Amsterdam to Zurich on Emerald Sky. Discover landscapes adorned along the Rhine & …
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Rhine & Moselle Delights - Cruise Only$499911Oct 13, 2024Begin this exclusive 11-day cruise in Basel and conclude in charming Amsterdam. This voyage includes a large variety of activities so that you can …
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Europe's Rivers & Castles - Cruise Only$42398Jul 2, 2025Embark on an 8-day Europe's Rivers & Castles Cruise from Nuremberg to Luxembourg aboard MS Amacerto. Visit UNESCO-listed sites and charming towns …
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The Rhine & Moselle (Northbound)$559911May 27, 2025Embark on an 11-day cruise aboard the Avalon Imagery II. Explore the Rhine and Moselle Rivers, starting in Basel. Discover charming cities in …
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German Luxury Cruises

10 Best Luxury Germany River Cruises for 2024-2025

Trip NameFromDaysNext DepartureSummary
The Enchanting Rhine - From Zurich to Amsterdam$505912Mar 22, 2025After spending two nights in both Zurich and Lucerne, Switzerland, board the MS Amaprima on an exclusive 7-day Rhine River cruise through the …
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The Legendary Danube$467411Apr 20, 2025Fall 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$499912Jul 2, 2025Board 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 Delights - Cruise Only$499911Oct 13, 2024Begin 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
Classic Prague & Danube Delights$771011Oct 11, 2024Take 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)$559911May 27, 2025Embark 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$758918Jun 30, 2025Join 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$1059011Jul 15, 2025Embark 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$1119015Oct 22, 2024Join this 15-day Splendors of Europe cruise on the Emerald Sky from Amsterdam to Budapest. Cruise through the Netherlands, Germany, Austria, …
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Splendours of Europe$1119015Oct 25, 2024Embark on the 15-day Splendours of Europe cruise aboard the Emerald Destiny, traveling from Amsterdam to Budapest. Discover the wonders of the …
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All German Barge Cruises

10 German Barge Cruises for 2024-2025

All German Barge Cruises

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.
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.
 

German Christmas Markets Traveler Reviews

German River Cruising FAQs

  1. 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.
     
  2. 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. 
     
  3. 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. 
     
  4. 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.
     
  5. 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.
     
  6. 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.
     
  7. 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.
     
  8. 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.
     
  9. 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. 
     
  10. 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. 
     
  11. 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.

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