Best river cruises this summer from bargain luxury to women's only sailings
Laced with scenic waterways, Europe is a joy to discover by water, especially during the summer months when the banks are lined with outdoor attractions and festivals.
Calmer than a traditional ocean cruise, navigating rivers is ideal for anyone wanting to travel at a slower pace with multiple opportunities to jump off and explore with the convenience of usually mooring close to the town or city centre.
Across the continent, events are taking place to commemorate iconic figures and celebrate the birth of major cities. These are some of the highlights to try as the weather warms up on the sun deck...
South of France
Whether it's the appeal of a girls trip in an female-friendly environment, or the opportunity to meet like-minded people, all-women holidays are on the rise.
On August 24, Uniworld launches its first women-only cruise onboard the SS Catherine, sailing along the Rhone and the Saone rivers on a special edition of its Burgundy and Provence voyage from Arles to Lyon.
A special programme of activities and entertainment will include a performance by US comedian Rachel Dratch, best known for her stint on Saturday Night Live, a chocolate and wine-pairing event, burlesque sessions and a luxurious pyjama party.
Hop off in Lyon for a candlelight concert, visit the International Shoe Museum in Romans-sur-Isere, and take part in truffle hunting.
Book it: A seven-night full-board cruise costs from £3,889pp sharing, including UK flights, transfers and a full programme of activities. Departs August 24. uniworld.com/ themed-cruises/women
Austria, Germany, Hungary and Slovakia
Along with its connections to one of Europe's most beautiful waterways, Vienna has links to many of the world's greatest classical composers.
This year, Austria's capital celebrates the 200th birthday of Johann Strauss II, known as the waltz king. To tie in with celebrations, Viking is offering a special itinerary along the Danube, including an evening performance of the Strauss Capelle at the Wiener Konzerthaus in Vienna with conductor and violinist Alma Deutscher – once hailed as a 'new Mozart'.
Sail onward and relax at a Budapestthermal bath and explore lesser-known Central European cities such as Bratislava and Passau. Book it: A seven-night Danube Waltz cruise on a Viking Longship costs from £2,795pp, including UK flights and some activities. Various departure dates. viking.com
Northern Europe
Promising to go where others don't, CroisiEurope's MS R.E. Waydelich L.J. paddlewheel ship will operate a new itinerary this summer. Along with being more environmentally friendly than other vessels, the ship has a shallower draft, enabling river navigations, even when water levels are low.
Jump on board for a voyage along four of Europe's most popular rivers – the Rhine, Neckar, Moselle and Saar – which flow primarily through Germany. Spend an evening wandering around the medieval heart of French city Strasbourg, sample fine wines at prime vineyards and gaze at views along the scenic Upper Middle Rhine Valley, a UNESCO world heritage site.
Book it: A seven-night full-board cruise starts from £1,867pp, including some activities. UK flights extra. Various departure dates. cruisingholidays.co.uk
Venice, Italy
At the height of summer, a top-end hotel in Venice can cost around £500 per guest a night just for a room. A cheaper way to see La Serenissima in style is to sail through on a small ship cruise.
While bigger ships have been banned, Uniworld's 126-passenger La Venezia can navigate the Grand Canal in a vessel elegantly designed to match the destination, for less than £300 per night full-board. Beat the peak season crowds with a private VIP visit to St Mark's Basilica after-dark and join a tour of the Doge's Palace first thing in the morning before it opens to the public.
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Uniworld is also the only cruise company to have an overnight docking spot at colourful island Burano. And as a further commitment to protecting the fragile Venetian lagoon ecosystem, proceeds from the itinerary go towards supporting a partnership with Venice's Barena Association.
Book it: A seven-night cruise costs from £1,998pp, including UK flights and a full programme of activities and excursions. Various departure dates. uniworld.com
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