The most captivating way to see Europe, our river cruise vacations by rail make the journey the best part of your adventure. Our travel expertise, excellent customer service and hand-crafted itineraries come together to create tours that present the highlights of each European river in an unforgettable way. Enjoy seamless travel as a Tour Manager escorts you to and from the ship, and as you sail, an onboard Cruise Manager is available around the clock to take care of every detail.
Travel through ever-changing scenery on an exclusively chartered ship, savoring exceptional dining and world-class hospitality as your river unfolds. And, of course, all your meals, a drinks package with dinner every night and immersive excursions are included.
Each day brings refreshing views and new adventures in iconic cities and hidden riverside gems. Browse our collection to find your ideal European river cruise. We look forward to welcoming you aboard.
River Cruise
River Cruise
(27 reviews)River Cruise
(54 reviews)
Each year, we take 70,000 customers on unforgettable vacations.
We are Travel Weekly Magellan Award winners and rated Excellent on Trustpilot.
Our team is on hand to help from the moment you book to the moment you return.
Our world-class Tour Managers and local guides take care of every detail on our escorted tours.
Discover immersive rail vacations, river cruises and escorted tours crafted for travelers who value culture, comfort and unforgettable moments. Download our free brochure and start planning your next vacation.
Experience luxurious ships and incredible excursions with our cruise experts
For over 50 years we have been creating itineraries that take the hassle out of holidays. On a Great Rail Journeys river cruise, you will be supported by our fantastic Tour Managers and Cruise Directors from start to finish.
Our vacations include an amazing selection of excursions that are all included in the price upfront - from guided tours with local guides to cultural experiences and entrance to magnificent attractions, unforgettable moments await!
Each of our exclusively chartered ships is staffed by a friendly and attentive crew who are committed to providing impeccable service. Enjoy excellent meals prepared by our onboard chefs using fresh, quality ingredients and savor the included drinks package.
Our luxurious chartered ships offer the ultimate river cruising experience, with elegant facilities and some of the largest cabins sailing Europe's rivers. Unwinding in the lounge or admiring the scenery from the sun deck - our ships offer unbeatable comfort.
As well as more than 82% of our customers saying they would travel with us again, we're also proud to have been honored in recent years by the Times, Telegraph and Which - and were recognized in 2025 by the British Travel Awards.
Our river cruise vacations offer fantastic variety - with options to travel to your cruise by rail or plane, and Tour & Cruise packages combining epic rail journeys with a relaxing cruise, you can choose a holiday that works for you.
Join us on an expert cruise along one of Europe's magnificent rivers.
Vacations By Rail is now Great Rail Journeys. We continue to
offer the same trusted vacations, and expert customer support
you've come to expect.
Join thousands of travelers who have trusted us to plan
unforgettable vacations by rail around the world.
River Cruise
(151 reviews)Enjoy one of the world's finest rail journeys aboard the legendary Glacier Express to Zermatt, and admire Matterhorn views from the charming Gornergrat Railway. Descending the Alps, set sail on a Rhine cruise, indulging in luxurious amenities and superb service. En route, savor incredible vistas of the stunning Rhine Gorge, wander through the...
River Cruise
A discovery of world-famous cuisine, elegant cities and unbelievable landscapes beckons in France. Come along for a route filled with intrigue, which presents the many sides of this nation, beginning with its most famous city. Spend three days in Paris, wandering through its streets in search of beloved landmarks and visiting the Palace of...
River Cruise
(69 reviews)Embrace the storied past of grand empires on a captivating rail-and-cruise vacation. Starting in the German capital of Berlin, uncover the magic of Prague from its sprawling capital and the enchanting Charles Bridge. Absorb panoramic views of Budapest's grand architecture on an illuminated evening cruise before setting sail for the fascinating...
River Cruise
(27 reviews)Embrace stunning scents and colorful sights of springtime on this flower-filled cruise through Belgium and the Netherlands. Walk among the incredible floral displays of Keukenhof Gardens, visit poignant war sites, and explore the history-lined streets of world-class cities, including Amsterdam, Bruges and Ghent. Cruising aboard a luxurious ship...
River Cruise
Embark on a festive cruise through Europe's most enchanting Christmas destinations on the Rhine river. Scenic landscapes and charming towns come alive with seasonal cheer in Germany and France during the most wonderful time of the year. From the twinkling lights of Koblenz's historic streets to the captivating markets of Rüdesheim, Heidelberg,...
River Cruise
Feel the holiday spirit on this cruise along the beautiful Rhine. Discovering Germany at the most magical time of the year we stop at traditional Christmas markets along the way, including Cologne, Bonn, Koblenz and Rüdesheim. Strolling through the stalls, admire the craftsmanship of local artisans and savor the flavors that define the season. ...
River Cruise
(399 reviews)Discover the beauty of spring on this flower-filled cruise through the Netherlands and Belgium. Walk among breathtaking floral displays at Keukenhof Gardens, and soak up the charm of Amsterdam, Bruges and Ghent. Onboard, unwind as you glide past the romantic and ever-changing landscapes of the Rhine, enjoying expert insight and onboard...
River Cruise
(131 reviews)Enjoy an eight-day cruise vacation through four countries and three capital cities, basking in beautiful river scenery all the way. Sail from the German border town of Passau through the Austrian wine-growing region of the Wachau Valley, admiring picturesque Dürnstein and the Melk Abbey en route. After exploring Vienna, the Hungarian capital of...
River Cruise
(65 reviews)Watch summer's lush greenery fade into the jewel tones of harvest season on this leisurely cruise, where every bend reveals the beauty of the Moselle and Rhine. Visit enchanting towns, experiencing regional charms amongst traditional architecture. Walk the ancient streets of Germany's oldest town, Trier, enjoy wine tasting in Rüdesheim, and...
River Cruise
Embark on a breathtaking Rhine cruise through some of Germany's most picturesque towns and cities at this most magical time of year. From the historic charm of Mainz and Koblenz to the storybook streets of Strasbourg and Rüdesheim, experience scenic beauty and rich culture at every stop. Onboard, enjoy a festive atmosphere with a Christmas Day...
River Cruise
On this cruise vacation, enjoy eight days of luxury aboard the MS Amadeus Diamond, beginning and ending in the romantic City of Light, Paris. Cruise along the River Seine, where history, art and natural beauty converge to create an inspiring experience. While sailing, discover the peaceful landscapes that inspired some of the world's greatest...
River Cruise
(49 reviews)Travel to Lisbon and explore Sintra's palaces on a Portuguese voyage of discovery before embarking on a seven-night Douro cruise. Drifting through golden valleys and past enchanting towns and wine estates, our cruise reveals the best of this serene river, stopping at wonderful ports en route. We set sail from Porto, tracing the Douro's path.
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