River cruising is a treat all year round. But there’s something about the spring that makes it feel that little bit more special...
Why Choose Spring for a River Cruise in Europe?
River cruising in Europe is a treat all year round. But there’s something about the spring that makes it feel that little bit more special. Enjoy the blush of spring on one of Europe’s most stunning waterways. Leave your jackets inside your cosy cabin or suite and head out on deck to relax in the milder temperatures of March, April and May.
"The experience on board was first class with all the crew helpful, polite and caring. The food was fabulous with something for everyone. Cabin roomy, bed really comfortable and spotlessly clean. Rotterdam and Keukenhof amazing."
-Feefo review & photo by guest Barbra on our Amsterdam, Kinderdijk and Ductch Bulbfields River Cruise
Put a spring in your step with these river cruises
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Don't just take our word for it...
Find out more about Spring Cruising
Enjoy the blush of spring on one of Europe’s most stunning waterways. Leave your jackets inside your cosy cabin or suite and head out on deck to relax in the milder temperatures of March, April and May. You could pass vine-covered hillsides producing world-renowned wines, and fields covered in a fragrant carpet of lavender fields along the Rhône. Visit the City of Love - the French capital, Paris - on a cruise through the heart of Normandy or meander through deepest Provence, to Arles (a city so beautiful it inspired Van Gogh, who painted his famous ‘Sunflowers’ piece here). Perhaps marvel at the Dutch bulb fields in thriving bursts of purple and yellows during a 5-day trip on the Dutch waterways.
The Douro region in Portugal is another place thriving in the Spring. Sit on the sundeck as medieval villages pass you by and stop at vineyards and taste some superb wines. It's quite quiet this time of year too – hint, hint – making it all that more relaxing. Or drift down the Danube, following in Mozart’s footsteps into the show-stopping heart of Vienna and finishing off your tour in the Pearl of the Danube (Budapest), enjoying an evening Gala dinner topped with a Hungarian folklore show accompanied by an after-dinner digestif. Egészségedre (cheers)!
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.
All cabins on our river ships feature comfortable beds that can be configured as either one large bed or two single beds on request.
Bed configurations vary slightly by cabin type:
- Superior Suite Cabins – European queen/king-size bed (160 cm × 200 cm / 63" × 79")
- Balcony Suite Cabins – European king-size bed (180 cm × 200 cm / 71" × 79")
- Standard Lower Deck Cabins – European queen/king-size bed (160 cm × 200 cm / 63" × 79")
European king and queen beds are slightly narrower than American king and queen beds: a European queen is about 63" × 79" (160 × 200 cm) and a European king 71" × 79" (180 × 200 cm), compared with a U.S. queen at 60" × 80" and a U.S. king at 76" × 80".
Your Dream European Cruise: Get our Brochure
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.
To order a printed copy of our brochure, please click here.