Unlock The Best of Europe's Rivers

Posted on 08/29/2025
Trafalgar

Trafalgar has created unforgettable memories for over five million guests. Now, the same local connections, iconic sights and seamless service are brought to the rivers of Europe. With Be My Guest and MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences on every itinerary, you’ll meet locals, support sustainability and create moments that truly matter.

From vineyard-lined valleys to lively cities and storybook castles, Europe’s rivers reveal a side of the continent that’s both iconic and unexpected. With your Experience Director and Experience Manager guiding every step, your journey is effortless and full of discovery.

River Cruise Differently.
Unlike ocean cruising, rivers take you straight to the heart of each destination. Step off your ship and into walkable towns, bustling squares and historic centers, ready to explore without the need for transfers or long journeys inland.

Every detail of your Trafalgar River Cruise is designed to make travel seamless. Once you’ve unpacked in your stateroom, you can settle in and enjoy the scenery, excursions and local experiences, confident that your experienced travel team is taking care of everything behind the scenes.

Our Team
With one of the highest staff-to-guest ratios on Europe’s rivers, there is always someone nearby to help, answer questions or make you feel at home. From the moment you arrive, your Captain, Hotel Manager, Experience Director and Experience Manager ensure everything runs smoothly.

Your luggage is delivered directly to your stateroom, rooms are refreshed daily, and beds are turned down each evening. Behind the scenes, the team coordinates dining, logistics and daily programs so you can simply enjoy the journey. On and off the ship, your Experience Director and Experience Manager lead walking tours, guide vineyard visits, point out local gems or suggest the best coffee in town, making every moment personal and memorable.

Curated and optional excursions
With a range of Included and Optional Experiences, you have the freedom to tailor your day, explore independently, or stay onboard to unwind. One moment you’re gliding past storybook castles with a drink in hand, the next you could be stepping into a European town with a Local Specialist by your side. Optional excursions might include walking through picturesque villages, joining a hands-on cooking class, or tasting local wines and cheeses. Each day offers a choice of experiences, so you can balance sightseeing, relaxation, and cultural immersion exactly how you wish.

Be My Guest experiences 
Trafalgar’s hallmark is creating authentic connections and river cruising is no different. You may find yourself welcomed into a local home for a meal or discovering a tradition passed down through generations.

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® experiences 
Travel is about leaving a positive impact. These activities support local communities and sustainable practices while giving you meaningful ways to connect with people and places.


The Rivers That Inspire

The Rhine


The Rhine reveals Europe at its most scenic. Castles rise above vine-covered slopes, villages sit tucked along the banks and every bend brings a new panorama. Sail through the dramatic Rhine Gorge with its cliffs and legends, explore Strasbourg’s half-timbered streets, discover Basel’s cultural highlights and take in the charm of Amsterdam’s canals.

The Danube


Flowing through the heart of Central Europe, the Danube connects cultures and traditions along its path. In Budapest, see the Parliament building illuminated at night. In Vienna, experience palaces and music that have shaped the city for centuries. In Bratislava, stroll a welcoming old town filled with history and local life. Each stop offers a different view of this celebrated river.

Travel Made Easy
River cruising with Trafalgar makes travel effortless. With transportation, accommodations and many experiences included, you can spend less time planning and more time enjoying. Onboard dining showcases the flavors of the regions visited, while excursions offer a curated balance of guided experiences and free time to explore. You can relax on deck, take in the scenery, or join a local tour with your travel team nearby.

The Trafalgar Difference
What sets Trafalgar apart is the way we connect you to each destination. Its not just about seeing the sights, it is about experiencing them. Hear stories from the locals, share a meal with a family that has called the region home for generations, and know your journey contributes positively to the communities you visit. With Trafalgar, you are not just a traveler passing through. You become part of the story of the rivers, the towns and the people who call them home.

Ready to Explore?
Europe’s rivers have inspired travelers for centuries. Now it’s your turn. Sail in comfort, experience destinations beyond the expected and create memories that stay with you long after your journey ends. Each river brings its own story, and with Trafalgar, you’ll connect with the people, places and traditions that make every stop unforgettable Each river brings its own story, and with Trafalgar, you’ll connect with the people, places and traditions that make every stop unforgettable.
 

Start Your Trip Today

New to River Cruising? Here’s Why They Could Become Your New Favorite Way to Travel Wit...

We’ve traveled by coach, train, plane, and down slightly less beaten paths via rickshaw, horse and cart, and even dog...

View details »

7 Reasons Why Portugal Is One Of Europe’s Top Destinations, Year After Year

Why does it feel like everyone is choosing to travel to Portugal right now? Could it be the delicious pasteis...

View details »

Trafalgar Expands From Land Touring into River Cruising

Discover Trafalgar's new river cruises launching in 2026—sail Europe's iconic rivers with guided cultural journeys and local connections.

View details »

People Celebrated World Elephant Day by Watching this New Film About Rehabilitating Ele...

Whether African or Asian, elephants around the world are revered for their majesty, intelligence, and as an example of astonishing...

View details »