European river cruises, which typically last longer than a week, offer a world of fantastic experiences and beautiful sights. Spring offers a dazzling view of Dutch tulip fields. Meanwhile, winter enables you to indulge in Germany’s festive Christmas markets and thrilling destinations.

With more ships and various themed vacations being unveiled every year, river cruising is a rapidly thriving sector. Given that it is focused on cultural experiences and excursions over onboard activities, it is perfect for those who desire an active vacation. It usually entails interacting with locals, exploring cities, family-oriented sailings, food & wine tasting, sightseeing, and so much more.

This year, cruises are beginning to set sail after a slump caused by the Covid-19 pandemic. If you are craving an exhilarating trip with your family or special someone, you need to do certain things prior to booking a European river cruise in 2021.

Choose the Destination

The first thing you need to decide on before booking is the destination. The top five favorite river cruise getaways among tourists today are Danube, Duoro, Elbe, Main, and Moselle.

As Europe’s second-longest river, Danube offers a range of in-depth experiences. Among the iconic spots here are the riverside Danubiana Meulensteen Art Museum and Bucharest’s historic Old Town.

The Duoro River is a gateway for exploring the most picturesque parts of Portugal. Travelers are given the opportunity to explore Lisbon and enjoy wine tasting activities.

Do you want to get lost in the beauty of Germany and the Czech Republic? The Elbe River offers you easy access to the amazing destinations in these countries. Along its route, travelers will marvel at the sight of panoramic forested landscapes, magnificent valleys, and bustling cities.

A historic waterway winding through the heart of Germany, the Main River gives voyagers a chance to gaze at the beauty of dense forests, winding rivers, and rolling hills. It also offers the best of both worlds, as it enables them to explore both the ancient and modern Bavarian cities, such as Frankfurt, Wurzburg, and Nuremberg.

Cruising in the Moselle River will give you a much-needed break from the hustle and bustle of the city. Travelling through France and into Germany is a romantic and unforgettable journey. You will fall in love with the view of the tranquil nature, quaint villages, and ancient ruins.

Prepare Your Budget

Once you decide on the destination, the next thing you need to consider is your budget. It is imperative to note that some cruises come at different prices depending on the destination and cruise line of your choice.

The fares for budget-priced river cruises start at around $200 per person per night. However, if you desire an all-inclusive luxury experience, be ready to shell out around $500 per person per night. Usually, some tours last anywhere from seven to 21 nights. If you are booking a cruise holiday for the first time, it’s best to start with Danube or Rhine cruises, as they are the most budget-friendly.

Travel Requirements

Starting this year, U.S. tourists to 26 member nations of the EU, also known as the Schengen Area, will be required to secure a European Travel Information and Authorization System registration before arrival. It is important to note that this is not a full visa and is valid for 3 years. Applying online will cost you about seven euros.

Moreover, cruise lines have varying requirements when it comes to Covid-19 vaccination. Most of them require guests to be fully vaccinated at least 14 days before their journey. Thus, it’s a must to check with the cruise line of your choice for more details.

Final Thoughts

European river cruises are welcoming you on board in 2021. They offer an experience of a lifetime. So, choose your destination, prepare a budget, pick a cruise line, and prepare the travel requirements before booking.