Explore the Rhine, Danube, Main, and more as they sear through the country with our list of the top ten best German river cruises, ranked.
Germany is the seventh-largest country in Europe, steeped in history. It is one of the most fascinating destinations on the continent, owing to its famous cities, majestic mountains, and authentic culture.
The country is also partitioned by some of the largest European rivers, such as the Danube River, which also passes through nine other countries, the Rhine River, and the Elbe.
The importance of rivers in Germany cannot be understated, leading to developed inland navigation systems and hydroelectric generation.
One of the best ways to take in the surrounding beauty of Germany’s flowing waters would be one of a range of river cruises, which can be taken through all major rivers and more.
Read on to discover the top ten best German river cruises, ranked.
The World Bucket List’s top tips for taking a German cruise
- Picking the right time of year is important, so keep in mind weather conditions and potential crowds in Germany when you go.
- River cruises may have restricted wi-fi. While this may form part of the appeal, be prepared in case there is a lack of access.
- Make sure to fully explore the ports of call when the cruise stops!
- River cruises will have lots of activities to do during the cruise itself, so to make the most of your time take part in as many as you can.
- Relax and enjoy the scenic views as you casually move through the rivers of Germany.
10. The Heart of Germany cruise – cruise along German villages
First on our list of the best German river cruises is the Heart of Germany, a six-day trip along the Main River, passing some of Germany’s most beautiful and quaint towns and villages.
Hop aboard the Avalon Imagery II to explore the province of Bavaria’s largest wine-producing region, undertake a walking tour of Volkach and visit the Romanesque Cathedral in Bamberg.
Price: £1,724 per person
Length: 5 nights
More info: HERE
9. The Rhine, Strasbourg, and Heidelberg cruise – explore the Rhine Valley
1,000 ft (300 m) high towering cliffs greet you on this river cruise of the Rhine River, and you are welcomed by Germany’s finest wine market with a stop in Mainz. Be sure to have your itinerary planned, as there are plenty of incredible things to do in Mainz.
While you end in Strasbourg in France, this is one of the best German river cruises as you will begin in Cologne, one of Germany’s best cities and drenched in history at 2,000 years old.
Price: £1,959 per person
Length: 7 nights
More info: HERE
8. Berlin Bridge Tour – spanning 60 bridges in the capital
When in Berlin, a boat trip along the Spree River and Landwehr canal will venture 23 km (14 miles) through the city.
Thus, giving you prime access to the city’s bridges, historical attractions, and greenery all in one.
Price: £21
Length: 3.5 hours
More info: HERE
Read more: the top ten best free museums in Berlin, ranked
7. Rhine & Yuletide Markets River Cruise – a Christmas cruise
Under £800, this is undoubtedly one of the best German river cruises to explore. Christmas abroad might be an option this year, as this cruise heads towards the country’s traditional Christmas markets.
On this cruise, you will visit Cologne, the Rhine Gorge, Koblenz, and Bonn, making it a packed and unforgettable five days.
Price: £769 per person
Length: 5 days
More info: HERE
6. Palaces and Gardens of Berlin and Potsdam – for unique Prussian buildings
Another from Berlin on our list of the best German river cruises, this striking tour offers breathtaking views of UNESCO-listed Prussian buildings, parts of Potsdam, and the likes of Kladow and Peacock Island.
For a wonderful afternoon on the water, we highly recommend taking the Palaces and Gardens of Berlin and Potsdam river cruise.
Price: £15
Length: 3.5 hours
More info: HERE
5. A Taste of the Rhine – for the canal cruise
This is one of the best German river cruises for a shorter stay at only four nights.
Beginning in Frankfurt, Germany, you will head northbound to Cologne before two days along one of Europe’s best canal cruises in Amsterdam.
Price: £1.217 per person
Length: 4 nights
More info: HERE
4. Elegant Elbe – from Potsdam to Prague
While not all in Germany, this magnificent tour with Viking River Cruises is a must on our list of the best German river cruises.
It’s not hard to see why as you enjoy two days in Berlin and later Dresden before disembarking for a deserved three-day stop at Prague.
Price: £2,945 per person
Length: 9 nights
More info: HERE
Related: read our review of the most famous landmarks in Europe, including Prague’s Prague Castle
3. Medieval Germany cruise – an enchanting cruise with an eye to the past
For those with an appreciation for history, you may enjoy this river cruise, which promises to “explore Medieval Germany in its purest form” whilst traversing the Main River and Danube River, two of Germany’s most prominent.
On this cruise, you will visit the medieval town of Bamberg, as well as Rothenberg and Nuremberg, and on to historic cities, including the likes of Mainz and Wurzburg in Bavaria. This is a beautiful and enchanting cruise with an eye to the past.
Price: £1,699 per person
Length: 7 nights
More info: HERE
2. New Year on the Rhine – one of the best German river cruises
How else but to start your New Year floating along the famous Rhine River in 2023? Similar to the Christmas market tour, add Frankfurt to the mix, and you have your multiple city fixes.
Included in this package is a New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner. It’s Koblenz in 2022 on New Year’s Eve and then Cologne in 2023 on New Year’s Day.
Price: £1,499 per person
Length: 6 nights
More info: HERE
1. Celebrated Cities of Hamburg and Berlin – visiting Germany’s main cities
Topping our list of the best German river cruises is the Sail through the River Elbe and Havel. On this incredible cruise, you will begin by exploring Germany’s capital city of Berlin, one of Europe’s biggest, most historic, and fascinating cities.
You will also venture into Germany’s highest mountain range, the Harz Mountains. From here, you will then travel to Hamburg, Europe’s second-biggest port. This jam-packed cruise is the perfect trip and is among the best European river cruises.
Price: £1,849 per person
Length: 7 nights
More info: HERE
Other notable mentions
Berlin Moonlight cruise:For two hours, you will travel through Berlin under the city lights on this wonderful moonlight cruise. Enjoy beautiful views and attentive service on through this beautiful city.
The Mighty Rhine to Switzerland:At just over £1,000, you will cross through three countries, Germany, Switzerland, and France, beginning and ending in Cologne. With plenty of travel destination possibilities, staff onboard will ensure you enjoy a seamless trip.
Rhine & Moselle Fairytales: This fantastic 18-day trip is among the most luxury river cruises in Germany. Beginning in Amsterdam and taking you along the Rhine River and Moselle River to Basel, you will pass through some of the most quaint towns in central Europe.
Your questions answered about the best German river cruises
Germany is an incredible nation, split by many rivers including the famous Rhine, and populated by historic towns and cities. If you are thinking of visiting and still have some outstanding questions, we have compiled for your some of the most frequently asked questions to us and online about this topic.
What is the best month to cruise the Rhine River?
The best time of the year to cruise the Rhine River is usually between late April to early June and then again from September to early October, owing to weather and crowd size.
Are river cruises allowed in Germany?
Yes, absolutely. If you are interested in river cruising in Germany, make one of the above your next bucket list adventure.
What is the most picturesque river cruise in Europe?
Perhaps among the most picturesque European river cruises is a cruise along the River Seine in Paris or the Venetian Lagoon in Venice.
Which river is prettier Danube or Rhine?
This is down to personal preference! The Danube is punctuated with scenic landscapes and historic cities, while the Rhine is lined with stunning castles and vineyards.
READ NEXT: the top 10 longest rivers in Europe, ranked
