If you're someone who feels uneasy about being stuck on a large ocean liner in the middle of the sea, a river cruise offers a much more reassuring experience. The water is shallow, and the shore is always within sight, making the idea of a river cruise far less intimidating. This is exactly why I was drawn to it! Plus, there’s no motion sickness or the sensation of sea legs afterward, since the calm river waters mean no rocking from ocean waves.

One of the perks of river cruises is their pre- and post-cruise packages, allowing you to extend your adventure. We decided to arrive a few days early on our own to explore, adjust to the timezone, and rest up before embarking on the cruise. I highly recommend this strategy so you can begin your cruise refreshed and ready to enjoy it to the fullest.

Photo credit : Ama Waterways

Why River Cruises are Ideal for Exploring Europe

One of the most incredible advantages of a river cruise is the effortless way you move between destinations. In the past, we’d pack up and drive to the next city—now, the ship does the traveling for us. While sailing, you can relax, dine, and wake up in a brand-new location, without the hassle of packing and unpacking each day. It's truly a "floating hotel" experience.

Another bonus? The excursions. River cruise companies, like the one we chose—Ama Waterways—offer curated guided tours in each city. These are not your run-of-the-mill activities either. The excursions often include off-the-beaten-path destinations, immersive cultural experiences, and unique opportunities that you might not have considered if you were planning the trip on your own. We chose to do as many of the tours as possible because we love learning about the history and culture of the places we visit, but you can also choose to spend time relaxing on the ship. It’s completely up to you how active or restful you want your trip to be.

Photo Credit : Denys Zlobin

Why Fall is the Best Time to Cruise Through Europe

If you’re considering when to take a river cruise in Europe, I can’t recommend fall highly enough. The autumn months bring fewer tourists, which means a more peaceful experience in popular destinations. Plus, the fall foliage along European rivers, like the Rhine or the Danube, is breathtaking. The cooler weather is ideal for walking tours and outdoor activities, allowing you to comfortably explore without the heat of summer. The season also offers some of Europe’s most famous harvest festivals, making it the perfect time to indulge in local wines, foods, and traditions.

Some of the standout regions to visit in the fall include:

• Rhine River (Switzerland, France, Germany, Netherlands): The Rhine is perfect for exploring in the fall, with its historic castles, picturesque towns, and sprawling vineyards. We cruised from Basel to Amsterdam, taking in the beauty of France, Germany, and the Netherlands along the way. One highlight was visiting Heidelberg, where Mark Twain famously wrote A Tramp Abroad. We also loved Rüdesheim, known for its traditional German coffee, and the stunning castles lining the riverbank.
• Danube River (Germany, Austria, Hungary): Fall is the ideal time to see the vibrant autumnal colors in the Wachau Valley of Austria. Stops in charming cities like Vienna and Budapest are made even more magical with cooler temperatures and seasonal festivities.
• Seine River (France): If you dream of autumn in Paris, a Seine River cruise will take you through the heart of the city, but also to Normandy, where you can experience rustic French countryside charm and the historic beaches of World War II.

Photo Credit : Denys Zlobin

Practical Tips for a Successful River Cruise

When packing, remember to bring less than you think you’ll need, but don’t forget a light jacket for any chilly or rainy days. Most ships, like ours, offer free laundry services, so there’s no need to overpack. I recommend bringing neutral-colored clothing that can be easily mixed and matched, and most importantly—comfortable, closed-toe shoes for the walking tours. Your feet will thank you after long days of exploring cobblestone streets!

Photo Credit : Denys Zlobin

Our trip with Ama Waterways was absolutely unforgettable. We cruised from Basel to Amsterdam, traveling through beautiful countries like France, Germany, the Netherlands, and Switzerland. The ease of exploring multiple countries from the comfort of a floating hotel is what makes river cruising such a unique and stress-free way to see Europe. Whether you're sipping on Germany’s legendary beers or marveling at the 40 castles lining the UNESCO-designated Rhine River, a river cruise lets you experience Europe like never before.

Photo Credit: Denys Zlobin