Discover the best river cruises in Austria – sail the Danube and explore Vienna, Salzburg and beyond.
Austria is a country of contrasts boasting sophisticated cities crammed with culture-seeking tourists as well as epic Alpine scenery and snowy slopes brimming with skiers. Offering travellers unparalleled beauty in the form of majestic mountains and spectacular sightseeing opportunities, it is famous for its museums and palaces, contemporary cuisine and winter sports. Perhaps the best way to explore everything Austria has to offer is on one of our scenic Austria river cruises, where you can discover a range of gourmet delights as well as delve deeper into the country’s colourful past.
Beyond Vienna’s glitz and glamour, you can discover Austria’s third largest city, Linz, where Mozart composed his musical masterpieces or explore the magic of Salzburg and marvel at the hilltop castle that looks down upon quaint cobbled streets. Cruise the waters of the stunningly peaceful Danube river, which flows between picturesque vineyards and mountain backdrops. On our Austria river cruise holidays, we call at the fairy-tale village of Melk to see Europe’s largest monasteries; a visual banquet some might say.
Often described as Europe’s cultural hub: Vienna is the capital of Austria which is home to many a musical masterpiece and was of course the setting of The Sound of Music. Visit some of the city’s finest buildings, including the Vienna Opera house, the lavish Hofburg Palace, and grand St Stephen's Cathedral.
Relax and relish the sights and sounds of Austrian culture with our breathtaking Austria river cruises.
Find a Luxury Austrian River Cruise
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- Austria, Hungary, Slovakia
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River Cruise
Christmas on the Danube River Cruise
- Austria, Hungary, Slovakia
- 5* ships
- Austria, Hungary, Slovakia
- 5* ships
- Austria, Germany, Hungary, Slovakia
- 5* ships
- Austria, Hungary, Slovakia
- 5* ships
River Cruise
The Blue Danube River Cruise with Budapest Extension
- Austria, Hungary, Slovakia
- 5* ships
River Cruise
The Blue Danube River Cruise with Vienna Extension
- Austria, Hungary, Slovakia
- 5* ships
Your Solo River Cruise, Perfectly Arranged
Sail Europe's most beautiful rivers in the company of like-minded travelers — with your own spacious cabin and no single supplement on selected cruises.
Group River Cruises Made Effortless
Book as a group of 8 or more and get 1 in 8 places free on European river cruises — tailored experiences and full support from start to finish.
From Mountain Views to City Lights – Extend Your European River Cruise
Set sail on a beautifully curated river cruise through Europe’s most stunning waterways — then stay longer. With the Extend Your Cruise option, your journey doesn’t end the moment your ship docks. Instead, you step off into the heart of Europe’s most captivating landscapes and cities.
Book a European Cruise with Confidence
Vacation Happiness Guarantee
If you're not happy by the end of the second day, we'll arrange and cover your return trip and refund the full cost of your vacation.
Your Money is Safe and Secure
No matter what, your money is safe and secure and fully protected.
24/7 Access to Support Team
We're on hand before and during your vacation. If anything were to go awry during your travels, you can call our emergency number at any point.
Unbeatable Value for Money
40 years' experience and historic supplier relationships, together with the scale of our operation, ensures your vacation will always be unbeatable value for money.
Popular FAQs
A Riviera Travel European river cruise is a premium, all-inclusive vacation aboard a luxurious river ship sailing through Europe’s inland waterways. You’ll unpack once and enjoy a seamless journey combining cultural discovery, fine dining, and first-class service from beginning to end.
The most popular months for European river cruising are from May through September, when temperatures are pleasant and the scenery is at its most beautiful. Riviera Travel offers departures throughout the season, including cruises over the festive period, so you can choose the perfect time to fit your travel plans.
Every Riviera Travel river cruise includes outstanding value and transparency — no hidden extras. Your fare covers:
- Luxury accommodation in a river-view cabin or suite, mostly featuring French balconies, with selected cabins offering full balconies.
- All meals onboard, prepared by expert chefs and inspired by regional cuisine.
- All-inclusive drinks, plus unlimited tea and coffee throughout the day.
- Daily guided excursions led by English-speaking local experts.
- Professional Cruise Director and Cruise Concierge throughout your journey.
- Free Wi-Fi, onboard entertainment, and port taxes all included.
Most Riviera Travel itineraries last variously between 4 and 16 days — an ideal length for an immersive European getaway.
Riviera’s ships are elegant and intimate, typically accommodating 160–180 guests. Their smaller size allows docking directly in city centers and picturesque villages — meaning more time exploring and less time transferring. You’ll also enjoy a relaxed, personal onboard experience with exceptional attention to detail.
The atmosphere is refined yet informal. During the day, casual clothing is perfect for sightseeing and excursions. Evenings are "smart casual", ideal for dining or socializing in the lounge. There's no requirement for formal wear, though many guests like to dress up for special dinners or the Captain’s Reception.
Yes — Riviera Travel welcomes solo travelers and offers dedicated single cabins or reduced single supplements on select sailings. It’s a wonderful way to see Europe in comfort and meet other like-minded travelers.
Each Riviera cruise includes expertly guided tours in every port, exploring cultural landmarks, architecture, and local life. Onboard, you can enjoy talks, local performances, relaxed entertainment, and time to unwind in the lounge, restaurant, or on deck with panoramic views.
Yes. Riviera Travel caters to most dietary requirements — including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and low-sugar options — with advance notice.
Ships are designed for comfort and convenience, and while most excursions are leisurely, some may involve walking over uneven surfaces. Guests should have a good level of mobility, as boarding may involve walking on gangplanks and crossing between double-moored ships.
Absolutely. Riviera Travel welcomes group bookings and offers generous benefits — when you book as a group of eight or more passengers, one travels free. It’s a fantastic way for families, clubs, or friends to experience a European river cruise together while enjoying added value. Dedicated group support is available to make organizing your trip simple and seamless.
Discover Your Dream European Cruise
With so many European river, solo, yacht and grand tour vacations to choose from, it can be hard to pick just one. Get inspired and start planning your next getaway with our latest brochure.