With a growing number of river cruise itineraries and an increasing array of river cruise ships taking to the waters, the popularity of modern river cruises is growing. Modern river cruisers, like the boats used by Avalon Cruises, specialists in European River Cruises, are far more luxurious than earlier river cruise ships, with luxuries including on board gymnasiums and restaurants.

As one of the most spectacular river routes in the world, and one of the most popular for European river cruise holidays, the Rhine offers a constantly changing array of sights from historic monuments and romantic European cities to ancient vineyards and picturesque little villages. Shore excursions generally kick off quite early in the morning, so it pays to be an early riser if you want to do a bit of exploring.

European River Cruises including great tours

Many river cruises run sightseeing tours, sometimes with the price of the tours included in the ticket price, but you’ll have to check this with the company you decide to travel with. Standard European River Cruises, for example, include visits to museums, vineyards in the Alsace wine region, and designer shopping districts. Other popular tourist spots include Cologne and Obernei, and the UNESCO World Heritage Site that is the breathtaking Rhine Gorge.

If you are a keen photographer, you will find that almost all the river cruises Europe has to offer have an observation deck where you will always have the best view of the changing landscape. The viewing platform is the perfect place to spend an evening aboard a European river cruise ship, watching as the world changes all around you.

European river cruises are also one of the best ways to meet likeminded travellers. With a river cruise trip you never know who will be on board, and you could just make a lasting friendship. The feel of a European river cruise trip is so friendly and relaxed that you will always enjoy a more sociable holiday than most. Daily excursions and the scenery that surrounds you ensures that you and your new friends will never be short of something to discuss.

So, if you are looking for a fun, sociable holiday where you wake up in a different place every morning, a European River Cruise just might be the perfect holiday for you.

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