There’s something about river cruising that’s just so irresistible. You get intimate access to the hearts of cities and historic regions. You sail right through some of the world’s most spectacular landscapes, getting a different perspective from the water. And you get to experience it all from your own private, luxury vessel. It’s safe to say river cruises are as popular as ever in 2024, so we’ve rounded up some of the best cruises and itineraries to book this year, from the iconic Danube to the mighty Nile.

1. The Danube, Europe

Experience the dreamy Danube River on a cruise through Central and Eastern Europe. You’ll waltz through historic cities like Vienna, Budapest, and Bratislava, soaking up rich history and stunning architecture. Expect musical evenings, wine tastings, and guided tours that bring the regions’ stories to life.

Cruise the Danube on: Harmony of Central Europe

2. The Nile, Egypt

A journey back in time along the mighty Nile River remains one of the greatest river cruises in the world. You’ll sail from Luxor to Aswan and beyond, exploring ancient Egyptian temples, tombs, and the Valley of the Kings. As you watch daily life go by on the lush river banks, you’ll get a deeper insight into the significance of the world’s longest river and how it brings life to the region.

Cruise the Nile on: Elegance of the Nile

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3. The Mekong, Southeast Asia

As the longest river in Southeast Asia, the Mekong is the lifeblood of the region. You can sail its waters through Vietnam, Laos and Cambodia, learning how communities live on the water, with floating markets, restaurants and homes. Stop off in tranquil villages and ancient temples like Angkor Wat, or head to the bustling cities of Ho Chi Minh, Phnom Penh and Luang Prabang.

Cruise the Mekong on: Cambodia & Vietnam in Style

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4. The Seine, France

The Seine stretches for almost 500 miles through France, but it’s best known for its gorgeous stretch in Paris. A Seine River cruise remains a rite of passage for any traveler to France, as it’s a great way to see the famous monuments like the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame, the Louvre and the Grand Palais. Kick back with a glass of bubbles and soak up the City of Lights from the water.

Cruise the Seine on: Ultimate France

5. The Mississippi, United States

A cruise along the Big Muddy is one of the classic experiences of the United States. You’ll get into everything here, from the New Orleans jazz scene to the deliciously soulful cuisine. Visit Civil War historical sites and discover the unique culture of small bayou towns on your Mississippi River cruise.

Cruise the Mississippi on: Southern Grace

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6. Venetian canals, Italy

The waterways of Venice need no introduction. The historic canals have inspired countless artists and travelers over the decades, and they’ll always be one of the world’s most coveted spots for cruising. When in Venice, you can take a romantic gondola ride to see the iconic sites like Doge’s Palace and Rialto Bridge. Or learn more about the traditions of the Venetian waterways, like the glassblowing artists of Murano.

Cruise the canals of Venice on: Ultimate Italy

7. The Amazon, South America

As the lifeline of the world’s largest rainforest and the longest river in the Americas, a cruise down the Amazon is a very special experience. Here you’ll have the chance to spot rare and unique plants and animals, including sloths, monkeys, and even pink river dolphins, and learn how Indigenous communities live along this remarkable river.

Explore South America on: Classic South America

8. The Ganges, India

The Ganges River is an important pilgrimage site and one of the most sacred rivers in India. A cruise on the Ganges will take you on a voyage through ancient cities, temples and spiritual traditions and rituals. Bask in the pink sunrises and witness daily life on the Ganges as locals bathe in the sacred water and worship the rising sun.

Explore India on: Essence of India

9. The Rhine, Europe

Sail through the heart of Europe on the Rhine, famed for its riverbanks dotted with fairy-tale castles, vineyard-clad hills, and medieval towns. The river begins in the Swiss Alps and continues to run through Germany and the Netherlands. With stops in cities like Cologne, Strasbourg and Basel, a Rhine River cruise dishes up the perfect blend of history, culture and scenery, making it one of the best river cruises in Europe.

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10. The Murray, Australia

As the longest river in Australia, a cruise along the Murray offers a glimpse into the unique ecosystems and communities of the region. From the arid landscapes of the Outback to the lush vineyards and historic riverside towns, the Murray is a fascinating journey. You can learn more about the Indigenous cultures and explore nature reserves to see local wildlife like kangaroos, koalas and turtles.

Explore Australia on: Inspiring Australia

11. The Douro, Portugal

Cruise through Portugal’s pastoral wine region along the Douro River. Famed for its centuries-old tradition of wine production, the Douro is flanked by breathtaking hills blanketed in terraced vineyards. You can start by tasting the locally-grown grapes in the renowned cellars of Porto on the Atlantic Coast and journey all the way to Vega de Terron, the golden city of Salamanca in Spain.

Explore Portugal on: Spain & Portugal in Style

12. Rio Serrano, Chilean Patagonia

Venture to the ends of the earth with a cruise down the Rio Serrano in Chilean Patagonia. You’ll pass by the most breathtaking natural wonders including the Southern Icefield as the river takes you to Seno Ultima Esperanza (Fjord of the Last Hope). Here you’ll see pristine rainforests and if you continue through the fjord by boat, you’ll also see the dazzling Balmaceda and Serrano Glaciers.

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13. The Loire, France

If you’re looking for the quintessential European cruise, filled with fairytale castles and stunning wineries, look no further than the Loire Valley. Renowned for its magnificent chateaux, lush vineyards, and Renaissance architecture, a cruise through the Loire is like stepping into a storybook.

Explore France on: Ultimate Southern France

14. The Yangtze, China

China’s longest river offers up a grand voyage through lush mountains, ancient history and surreal landscapes. Cruise down the Yangtze River to see natural wonders like Three Gorges, the Wu Gorge, the Shennong Stream, and riverside towns like the shrines and temples Fengdu Ghost City. It’s an unforgettable journey.

15. The Dutch Waterways, the Netherlands

As a low-lying country, the Netherlands is almost built on water, with plenty of canals and rivers to explore. One of the best times to go is spring, when the gardens and tulips are in full bloom. Whether you glide down Amsterdam’s canals, or sail into the countryside to see the windmills and farmland, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to sail in the Netherlands.

Your frequently-asked questions about river cruising, answered:

What is the most beautiful river cruise in Europe?

There’s so many stunning river cruises in Europe, it’s impossible to say just one. Each river has its unique charm. The Danube has its enchanting cities like Vienna and Budapest while the Douro has its ancient wine-making traditions. The Loire is dotted with fairytale castles while the Rhine is home to the Rhine Gorge, a breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage Site. Whatever you choose, you won’t be disappointed.

Is a balcony worth it on a river cruise?

If you’re going on a river cruise with lots of scenic landscapes, a balcony is definitely worth it. You’ll be able to watch the scenery unfold from the comfort of your luxury room, and you’ll also have a private space to get some fresh air. There’s nothing like gazing out at the Wachau Valley along the Danube or the Rhine Gorge, all in your own cosy bubble.

What is the best time of year to go on a river cruise?

For European rivers like the Danube and Rhine, spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) offer mild weather and fewer crowds. For more tropical destinations like the Mekong or Amazon, it’s best to research the dry and wet seasons to decide what experience you prefer. While the dry season will have better weather (less rain), the wet season has greener scenery and high water levels that allow for more extensive exploration of smaller tributaries.

How far in advance should I book my river cruise for 2024?

It’s advisable to book at least 6 to 12 months in advance, especially for popular river cruises or during peak travel seasons. Early booking can also secure better deals and ensure you get your preferred cabin type.

Are river cruises suitable for families?

River cruises are traditionally popular with older adults, however many river cruise lines are now offering family-friendly itineraries and activities. It’s a great way for families to go on holiday, as you can unpack once and don’t need to hop around between destinations as frequently.

What are your favorite river cruises? Let us know in the comments below!

With a spectacular coastline stretching over 2,000 miles, Vietnam’s maritime communities have been profoundly shaped by the sea. From the fishing villages and floating markets to the iconic bamboo basket boats and sampan boats, Vietnam’s coastal culture is extraordinary. We dive into the waterways of Vietnam to discover the unique traditions and communities that thrive here, from the floating villages of Ha Long Bay to the drifting markets of the Mekong. We also share how you can get a deeper insight with these exclusive cruise experiences on our Cambodia & Vietnam in Style luxury tour. 

1. Discover the water wonderland of Ha Long Bay

Set in northeastern Vietnam, UNESCO-listed Ha Long Bay is one of the country’s most famous natural wonders. Its name translates to “Descending Dragon Bay,” as local legend says dragons were sent by the gods to protect Vietnam, creating the bay and its islands. 

The bay encompasses around 600 square miles and has more than 1,600 limestone islands rising out of the emerald waters. Formed over millions of years, the karst landscape has a remarkable concentration of grottoes, caves, limestone peaks, rainforests, and a rich biodiversity. Ha Long Bay is also famous for its unique floating villages, where residents live and work on the water.

Private luxury junk boat cruise

Sailing Ha Long Bay is one of Vietnam’s most iconic cruise experiences, but you’ll get to do it in style. We’ll board a private luxury junk boat for a special overnight cruise on the bay. The boat is traditionally designed, with all the modern luxuries found within. In the evening, you can relax on deck and watch the glorious sunset, or enjoy a traditional Vietnamese cooking demonstration, and indulge in the creations for dinner. In the morning, you’ll start your day with a Tai Chi class before enjoying brunch as you cruise through the limestone karsts. 

Read more: Fine dining, dressed down: the cuisine of Vietnam and Cambodia

Sea caves and floating villages

You’ll also make a trip to explore Tien Ong Cave. It’s famed for its massive stalactites and stalagmites, including one known as “the fairy godfather”. Afterwards, we’ll sail to Cua Van floating village, where generations of fishermen and their families have lived for hundreds of years. The villages are made up of clusters of floating houses, moored to the seafloor, creating a community that lives and works on the water.

Life in these villages is directly tied to the sea. Fishing and acquaculture are the main sources of income and motor and row boats are the main modes of transport. Children even learn to swim before they walk. The populations of these floating villages have dwindled over time due to modernisation and government relocation programs. However, those who remain preserve their traditional way of life and remarkably resourceful maritime culture. 

Read more: Reconnect with the great outdoors at these luxurious back-to-nature retreats

2. Explore the waterways of the Mekong River

Nicknamed the ‘Rice Bowl of Vietnam’, the Mekong River is the lifeblood of Southeast Asia. Spanning an area of around 16,000 square miles and passing through six countries, the Mekong River is one of the biggest and most fertile deltas in the world. The Mekong supports thousands of animal species, while millions of people depend on it for agriculture and their livelihoods. Locals have built their lives on and around the water and the intricate web of canals is used for everything from transport to trade and fishing.

The Mekong is famous for its unique floating market culture, where people can buy produce from vendors on boats. Houses are built on stilts to integrate with the changing water levels and you’ll see temples and pagodas perched on the delta. While automated mass agriculture threatens farming and fishing traditions, and climate change disrupts the natural cycles of the Mekong, the locals continue to uphold their harmonious relationship with the delta.

Private cruise through the Mekong

You’ll get an insight into the Mekong culture on one of our exclusive cruise experiences. We’ll board a private vessel for a cruise down the rivers and canals of the delta. You’ll first learn about coconut production, one of the major industries for people living along the river. Then have some fun on land with a ride on a tri-motorcycle through the limestone mountains and glistening rice paddies. You’ll arrive at a rice noodle factory and discover how this beloved Vietnamese food is made.

You’ll then meet Mr Sau Tuong, a former soldier, and his wife at their home. You’ll learn how the couple makes rice paper using traditional techniques. Mr Sau Tuong spent years fighting the Khmer Rouge in the 1970s and now lives a more peaceful life preserving ancient customs.

Later, enjoy lunch at the charming Mango Home, a thatched floating restaurant. Savor delta delicacies such as grilled fish, giant prawns and noodle soup as you gaze out over the lush waterways.

Read more: Why a Luxury River Cruise is the Best Way to Cruise

3. Bamboo basket boat ride to Thanh Dong Village

As part of our journey, we’ll visit Cam Thanh Village and see the thick coconut jungles, once a shelter for residents and soldiers during the Vietnam War. Today, the village is a vital supplier of rice, seafood and vegetables to the region. We’ll explore more of this region with one of our most unique cruise experiences – bamboo basket boat. 

Bamboo basket boats have played an integral role in Vietnam’s maritime culture for centuries. Their origins date back to the French colonial era. The French imposed heavy taxes on the ownership of boats, making it unaffordable for many local fishermen. In response, the Vietnamese created these unique, lightweight, sturdy, and affordable boats. They could argue they were ‘baskets’ rather than ‘boats’, therefore skirting the tax laws. The boats became a symbol of resilience in the face of adversity and are still used today for fishing and ferrying people and goods.

Ride a bamboo basket boat to a riverside restaurant

You’ll witness this enduring tradition up close when you ride in a bamboo basket boat to Thanh Dong village. Here you’ll meet villagers and learn how they cultivate produce using sustainable and traditional methods. You’ll continue your peaceful voyage on the bamboo basket boat to a riverside restaurant. It’s an idyllic location right on top of the water, nestled in the coconut forest, overlooking the glimmering rice fields. Here you’ll take part in a hands-on cooking class with a professional local chef. You’ll learn how to make some delicious Vietnamese food and enjoy your creations for lunch. 

Discover these exclusive cruise experiences and more extraordinary adventures with our Cambodia & Vietnam in Style luxury tour. 

The next time you’re considering cruising, a river cruise is an ideal choice. Uniworld Boutique River Cruises, our sister company in The Travel Corporation, takes guests on all-inclusive, luxury tours in Europe, Asia, Egypt and Peru onboard gorgeously appointed floating hotels.