Discover Europe's waterways in luxury with Scenic
Explore the world’s most enchanting waterways on a European river cruise with Scenic.
n truly all-inclusive 5-star luxury, discover rich historical lands, exquisite cuisine, unique cultures, and exceptional landscapes. Our spectacular collection of award-winning European river cruises offer an abundance of once-in-a-lifetime experiences in unique ports and picture-perfect towns. Every step of your seamless journey, be it in France, Germany or Portugal, will create memories you will cherish for a lifetime.
The historic European waterways you can explore with Scenic
A new world of enriching, enlightening and invigorating experiences await along the picturesque river passages of Europe.
Under its historic bridges, along its iconic canals around its fabled vineyards, and within its noble palaces, you will fall in love with Europe's infinite wealth of wonders.
Rivers
Why travel to Europe with Scenic?
-
Best in small ship cruising
Savour the small-ship experience on board the luxurious Scenic Space-Ships in Europe. With no more than 163 guests, you can leisurely enjoy the unrivalled amenities on board.
-
Luxurious Suites
Opulently appointed, our suites are among the largest on Europe’s waterways. Each suite is finished with elegant furnishings, spacious bathrooms, Wi-Fi, queen-size Scenic Slumber beds, a pillow menu and luxurious bath products.
-
Scenic Sun Lounges
At the press of a button, the glass of your window glides down and converts your private balcony into your exclusive Scenic Sun Lounge. Take in the resplendent views in full, wide-angle splendour.
-
Wellness your Way
Scenic elevates wellbeing to a higher plane. You can customise your journey with your choice of healthy meals, stretching classes, Salt Therapy Lounges* and e-bikes*. Your health is our priority.
-
A choice of dining venues and beverages
On board you will find an impressive selection of up to five dining venues, from casual to fine dining. Your premium beverages^ – wine, beer, cocktails, spirits – are included and available all day and not just at mealtimes.
-
Exclusive and personalised experiences
All sightseeing is included. Scenic Enrich experiences offer a deeper cultural immersion and you can tailor your days with a range of included Scenic Freechoice activities.
-
Our Dedicated Team
Our Captains, Hotel Managers, Cruise Directors, Enrichment Managers, Wellness Coach, Butlers (and their teams) deliver a first-class level of service.
-
The Nth Degree
With Scenic, truly all-inclusive luxury means all details have been taken of for you. Arrangements such as your airport transfers, luxury transport and local guides, tips and gratuities are all handled and included in your Scenic journey.
OUR TRULY ALL-INCLUSIVE EXPERIENCE
Featured Itineraries
view more itineraries
Extend Your Stay
We offer a range of delightful pre and post cruise city stays, stopovers and touring options in some of the world's most spectacular destinations.
View all extensions
Our Latest Offers
View our brochure, call our experts on 0800 441 611 or contact your local Scenic Travel Advisor to learn more
Scenic Space-Ships
It’s more than just a river cruise ship... it’s a custom-designed, 5-star Space-Ship and your home away from home where you can relax and unwind during your truly all-inclusive river cruise.
When you board your 135-metre length Space-Ship, unpack your bags just once and settle into your spacious, luxurious suite. With no more than 163 guests on board and a variety of dining, wellness and relaxation areas, there's ample space to relax, explore, indulge and dream as you float by the European landscapes.
Through continuous innovation, we ensure optimal comfort for you on board your Space-Ship. Every thoughtful detail of our state-of-the art, intimate ships has been developed with the goal of delivering world-class, truly all-inclusive luxury river cruise experiences that are second to none. It’s more than just taking care of you. It’s ensuring your entire cruise is truly carefree by tending to every little detail, from your morning skim latte to your evening nightcap.
Learn more
Most Commonly Asked Questions
Q. Do European River Cruises Travel at Night?
A. Our river cruises will often travel between destinations at night so you can make the most of your destinations in the daylight. However, they occasionally travel during the day so you can experience the sights and sounds of the river as the world passes by.
Q. Which European River Cruise is the most scenic?
A. We carefully curate our river cruises and itineraries, so each offers incredible vistas and is rich with architecture, history, food, wine and culture ready for you to explore. To find out which are most suited to your tastes, be sure to read ourcity guidesfor inspiration.
Q. How much does a European River Cruise cost?
A. Prices vary depending on destinations, number of days cruising, suite type and time of year, but with Scenic you can expect all our European river cruises to come with 5-star luxury as standard with a truly all-inclusive experience so what you pay is all you pay.
Q. Are European River Cruises wheelchair accessible?
A. We welcome guests with mobility issues but please be aware that limitations could exist on board and during shore excursions. Our lifts service three out of the four decks, with access to the Sun Deck only possible using stairs. Under appropriate circumstances, guests are allowed to use a collapsible wheelchair on board. You must be able to climb up and down the stairs on coaches and some shore excursions may require movement over cobblestones or up and down stairs. Guests with limited mobility will require the services of a companion since the crew’s availability to do so may be limited. On occasions, we may have to dock alongside other ships, which means accessing the shore via the Sun Deck. For further information, please contact one of our Travel Advisors.
Q. What is a European River Cruise like?
A.
Europe’s rivers are steeped in history, having been one of the main methods of transporting goods and people for centuries, and therefore you can expect to be immersed in a world rich with heritage and culture, transported by an innovative Scenic Shape-Ship.
To found out more on what to expect from a European River Cruise, be sure to read our Essential Guide to River Cruisingand watch the wealth of video content above.
Looking for inspiration?
Discover Europe in video
We strive to give you a deeper understanding of all the ‘must-see’ sights, along with the right amount of flexibility to explore at your own pace.
Our passionate Journey Designers curate experiences that take our guests beyond the ordinary, revealing hidden gems away from the busy tourist trails. Our expert Cruise and Tour Directors are skilled storytellers and trained to anticipate your needs, so you can rest assured that you will always be well cared for.
Browse our collection of videos to see for yourself the delights that await on a European River Cruise with Scenic.
General Information & Conditions. Please read carefully before booking.
For full terms and conditions visit scenic.com.nz/terms
FAQs
European River Cruises 2023-24 | All-Inclusive? ›
The European River cruising season runs from March through December, though the best time to take a river cruise in Europe is during the late spring (April-May) or early fall (September-October).
What is the best time of year to do a European river cruise? ›The European River cruising season runs from March through December, though the best time to take a river cruise in Europe is during the late spring (April-May) or early fall (September-October).
What is the most popular river cruise in Europe? ›The Danube is Europe's most popular cruising river. It flows through Germany, Austria, Hungary and other counties on its 2,000-mile route, and you'll find itineraries that include Vienna, Munich, Prague, Budapest and other don't-miss cities.
How far in advance should you book a European river cruise? ›Plan seven to eight months in advance.
Doing so allows you to pick the sailing you want, in the stateroom category you want. River cruises are a unique beast in that the cheapest and most expensive accommodation choices tend to go first.
A mix of travelers from the United States and international destinations, river cruise guests typically average age 55+ years and enjoy more active, culturally connected experiences during their travels.
What is the cheapest month for a European cruise? ›While your sailing options may be very limited, as many ships have crossed the Atlantic to sail in warmer winter waters, the cheapest months to cruise in Europe are November, early December, January and February. For a wider choice of ships, choose April or September.
Is it better in front or back on river cruise? ›The truth, though, is this: There's no “better” side of the ship. It doesn't matter where you're going, or what river you're sailing on, or even what ship you're sailing aboard. Both sides of the ship are created equal.
Which deck is best on river cruise? ›The upper deck cabins have balconies or windows with better views. Not all cruise ships have balconies, but the great ones do! The bottom deck, which is usually labeled Deck 1, is the least desirable. The upper deck is usually the most desirable.
What time is dinner served on a Viking River Cruise? ›Meals on a Viking River Cruise
Breakfast: 7:00-9:00 am. Lunch: 12:00-2:00 pm. Dinner: 7:00 pm.
All in all, the average price of a Viking river cruise will range between $2000 – $8000 per person.
What is the dress code on European river cruises? ›
Tip 2: Remember, river cruise ships do not have a strict dress code. Dinner is not a formal event, and during the day, ease and comfort are the names of the game. Pack casually for your journey, but smart casual. This means leave your football-watching sweatpants home and opt for jeans or khakis instead.
What is the average age of a Viking river cruise? ›Although there is a mix of ages on the Viking River ships, most passengers are 60 plus, and many are retired, especially those favoring the longer voyages.
What month is best to cruise in Europe? ›Best Time to Cruise Europe: April - Mid-June and September - October. Tourists flock to Europe in the summer, but the best time for a European cruise is in the late spring and early fall. Temperatures are more pleasant and the crowds of tourists tend to much smaller than the peak summer months.
Are riverboat cruises for old people? ›Increasing in popularity with new ships added each year, river cruising is ideal for seniors.
Is Viking River Cruises financially stable? ›Meanwhile, one of the largest European operators, Viking River Cruises, has been having a bumpy ride financially. A planned funding deal this past spring to cover expenses has fallen through. But—unsurprisingly—Viking claims it is in sound financial condition, reports The Travel Insider.
How many people are usually on a river cruise? ›A river cruise can be defined as:
Typical river cruises often last longer than a week. Carry anywhere from 100 to 250 guests, depending on the ship size. Are popular on many of the world's major rivers, including the Danube, Rhine, Volga and Yangtze.
Hurricane Season
Storms in August and October have a moderate risk of developing into hurricanes while September has the highest risk of all. For these reasons, September is the worst month of the year to take a cruise.
There's No Best Day to Book
Cruise lines generally release their lowest fares when itinerary schedules are first published, and then run sales every so often to encourage bookings. As cabins fill up, the prices go up.
If a cruise is filling up quickly, the company has no reason to release a sale to entice customers. But if a cruise's departure date is fast approaching and the ship is only partially booked, prices will drop and free add-ons will increase, resulting in some happy customers.
Is it worth getting a balcony on a river cruise? ›Bottom line: On a river cruise, a balcony may offer good value when it means an upgrade to a larger suite, but not when a French balcony gives you more interior space, or when you will be spending little time in your cabin.
Do people dress up on river cruises? ›
Bring casual clothes that are comfortable – that's your main priority. Unlike ocean cruises where guests often dine in ballgowns and tuxedos, the dress code on a river cruise is much more relaxed and informal.
Is a French balcony worth it on a river cruise? ›Having a French balcony saves space, meaning that you can enjoy a larger cabin. On the waterways of Europe, it's often not warm enough to sit out on your balcony. A French balcony offers the advantages of great views and fresh air without wasting space on cruises where it's simply too cold to sit out.
What is the best deck to sleep on a cruise ship? ›You want to be as close to the pivot point as possible to feel the least movement. Avoid cabins near the front (bow) or back (stern) and on decks higher than the middle deck of the ship. So, on a ship with fourteen passenger decks, your best options are below deck seven.
Do river cruises sail at night? ›Sometimes meals will be at restaurants or other dining venues at various ports of call. Cruising from one destination to the next often takes place at night while passengers are sleeping, but sometimes the cruises will also sail during the day, giving passengers an opportunity to relax or enjoy the scenery.
Can I wear jeans to dinner on a Viking River cruise? ›Cruise Day Wear
Comfortable trousers or jeans are best, or shorts or skirts are also appropriate if the weather calls for it. Lightweight, breathable tops. Both long and short-sleeved. Comfortable walking shoes.
While serving times can vary depending upon excursions and cruise schedules, they are generally: Breakfast: 7:00 AM–9:30 AM. Lunch: 12:00 PM–2:00 PM. Dinner: 7:00 PM.
Is the mini bar free on Viking River Cruises? ›Minibars with complimentary alcoholic beverages, soft drinks, water and snacks. Complimentary laundry, dry cleaning, pressing and shoeshine services. A welcome bottle of Champagne. Binoculars in the room.
What is the recommended tipping on a Viking River Cruise? ›Viking River Cruises offer two ways to manage your gratuities: you can relax and enjoy your journey by pre-purchasing gratuities on My Viking Journey at our standard recommended rate of US$18 per guest per day; or, we will automatically add a discretionary service charge of €15 per guest per day to your shipboard ...
Are Viking cruises for seniors? ›Viking. Viking's 930-passenger ocean ships top our list of the best cruises for seniors because they are designed specifically for an adult crowd.
Do I need swim shoes on a cruise? ›Most cruises require footwear when you leave the pool. You can't beat water shoes for a more secure alternative to flip flops and slides.
What do you wear to dinner on a Viking cruise? ›
There are no formal nights on Viking so there's no need for long dresses for women or dinner jackets for men (even neckties are discretionary). Instead, the dress code is “elegant casual,” meaning anything from a sundress in the Caribbean—to slacks and a blouse for women cruising in colder climates.
Can you wear pants on a cruise? ›In the evenings, some of our ships enforce a “cruise casual” dress code. For men this dress code can call for longer dress shorts or pants (jeans are OK too) and a collared polo shirt. For women, the dress code may ask for sundresses, skirts and blouses, dress shorts and capri pants are acceptable.
How many people can fit on a Viking River Cruise? ›Suites and staterooms aboard Viking River Cruises' ships
Each Longship measures 135m in length and carries 190 passengers in 95 outside-facing cabins.
The 443-foot-long versions of the ship are designed for 190 passengers, for example, whereas the 410-foot-long versions of the vessels hold 168 passengers (since they have 11 fewer cabins). While most Viking river ships are Longships, there are a few exceptions in the Viking river fleet.
How many people can go on a Viking River Cruise? ›Passengers: From 82 – 190 depending on the itinerary. Personality/Decor: Longships are Scandinavian Modern in design.
How far in advance should I book my cruise? ›Experts say it's best to book a cruise six to 12 months ahead for the best price, but you might be able to snag a better deal if you have the flexibility to wait a bit longer. Getting the delicate balance right on booking a cruise can be tricky. Book too early and you risk paying through the nose.
What is the best amount of days for a cruise? ›If you're bringing the whole family, a 5 or 7 day cruise might be the best way to make sure everyone has an awesome getaway. And for those lucky folks with even more time to spare, a cruise of 10 days or more will give you an incredible experience of all the best things a cruise has to offer.
Do cruise prices drop the week before? ›Cruise prices do not get cheaper closer to the sailing date in all cases. Cruise prices are usually the cheapest furthest from the sailing date when first launched or 60-90 days before the cruise sets sail. The prices of some cruises will decrease last minute but this doesn't always happen.
What is the best month for a river cruise from Amsterdam to Budapest? ›July, September and May are the most popular months to river cruise between Amsterdam and Budapest and there are 405 departures available from nine of the world's leading river cruise lines.
What is the best time of year for a Viking Rhine River cruise? ›Late April to early June and September to early October are widely considered the best times to cruise the Rhine River due to ideal weather and crowds, though cruise prices are correspondingly higher during these periods.
What is the best month to go on a Mediterranean cruise? ›
For optimal weather and adventures aplenty, the best time to cruise the Mediterranean is in the spring, summer or fall season, from early April through late November. During the winter, many locals close up shop, making it difficult for travelers to enjoy the full Mediterranean experience.
What is the best time of year to go on a Viking cruise? ›The best time of year for a Viking River cruise on the lower Mississippi River in April, May, or September and October. Hurricane Season runs from June to November, but peak Hurricane Season is from August to September.
Is the Danube too low for cruise ships? ›One of Europe's worst droughts in decades has left the water level of parts of the Rhine and the Danube Rivers too low for ships to pass, paralyzing commerce and causing disruptions for companies that transport goods and commodities like oil and coal.
Is Danube River cruise worth it? ›It has a good view from many points of the city, a panoramic view from the castle on the hill, or a walk along the river It's a must to do, or through one of the many bridges that connect the Buda side with that of Pest. In any case, from any location is admired this river with a touch of poetry to the city.
What is the cheapest month to go on a cruise ship explain briefly? ›The best time of year to book a cruise is often January through March. During this period — also known as wave season — industry-wide sales occur and the price of that cruise you've been dreaming of may drop significantly.
Can you wear jeans on a Viking river cruise? ›During the day, the Viking cruises dress code is fairly casual. If the season or area of travel is warm, feel free to wear comfortable shorts, skirts, slacks, or jeans. Be sure to pack for the onboard facilities too!
What is the average age of Viking river cruise passengers? ›Although there is a mix of ages on the Viking River ships, most passengers are 60 plus, and many are retired, especially those favoring the longer voyages.
What is the safest month to go on a cruise? ›To avoid the busy season, the best time to go on a Caribbean cruise is from November to early December.
What day of the week do cruise lines lower prices? ›There's No Best Day to Book
Cruise lines generally release their lowest fares when itinerary schedules are first published, and then run sales every so often to encourage bookings. As cabins fill up, the prices go up.
Though there are no formal nights on-board Viking River cruises, evening dress is elegant casual across all dining venues, performances and special events. This includes: Women – Dress, skirt or slacks with a sweater or blouse. Men – Trousers and collared shirt with a tie and jacket being optional.
What time is dinner on a Viking River Cruise? ›
Meals on a Viking River Cruise
Breakfast: 7:00-9:00 am. Lunch: 12:00-2:00 pm. Dinner: 7:00 pm.