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>> What to Wear on a River Cruise in Europe (+ Packing List!)

What to Wear on a River Cruise in Europe (+ Packing List!)

Wondering what to pack for a river cruise? We’ll show you exactly what to wear on a river cruise in Europe with some great ideas on practical River cruise outfits. We’ve also included some clothing tips for Rhine river cruise travel across the seasons.

In addition to our guide on how to dress for a river cruise we’ve included some tips on how to pack for a European river cruise . Assuming you’re coming from the US, Canada, Australia or New Zealand and will be traveling a long way to Europe, you may want to travel a bit before or after your river cruise. Our tips for packing for river cruise trips will help you pack light for travel in the rest of Europe.

We’ve used the Viking river cruise dress code as a guide on what to wear on a Rhine river cruise but there are of course other companies that do European river cruises. For simplicity reasons we’re calling this our Viking river cruise packing list but you can of course use is it as a guide on what to wear on a river cruise in Europe on other cruise lines too.

1.1 Types of European River Cruise Outfits
1.2 Dressing for the Season
2 Tips on How to Pack for a River Cruise
3.1 River Cruise Clothes
3.2 Footwear
3.3 River Cruise Essentials
3.4 Toiletries
3.5 Electronics
4 Questions on what to pack for river cruise in Europe?

What to Wear on a River Cruise in Europe

River cruises are more casual than ocean cruises. They’re more about experiencing the culture and sights of Europe and less about having a fun vacation on a big ship (like you would on a Caribbean cruise). When working out how to dress for a European river cruise you’ll need to think about comfort, packability, layering and European culture.

You’ll spend your days sightseeing around the streets of Europe so comfortable but relatively smart but casual clothes are ideal. Comfortable walking shoes are a must! Many of the excursions on European river cruises are walking tours. You’ll also likely visit churches and culturally significant sights that may require covered shoulders and knee length clothes. Pack a light scarf in summer to throw over your shoulders. Avoid short shorts & skirts and opt for capri pants & midi skirts instead.

Make sure you choose items that pack well. You won’t have an iron in your cabin so you’ll need to pack clothes with wrinkle resistant fabrics. A small travel-sized bottle of Downy Wrinkle Release can help with this too. It also gives clothes a quick refresh allowing you to wear items more than once.

Types of European River Cruise Outfits

Casual clothes for cruising – Comfortable but smart casual clothing is the go when cruising in Europe. A t-shirt or sleeveless vest with jeans, capris or a skirt is enough.
Comfortable shoes – Comfortable shoes are a must for European travel.
Non-formal evening wear – There often isn’t time or a need to change for dinner on a river cruise so don’t feel you have to. We usually prefer to change for dinner, even if that means a quick freshen up and changing from a t-shirt into a nicer top. Lightweight, chiffon evening tops are great to pack for evenings on cruises. Wear them over jeans or capris. They don’t take up much space but add a little oopmh to your outfit.
Formal evening wear – Most European river cruises do not have a formal night. If they do, you’ll find the dress code for river cruises isn’t as strict as for ocean cruises. There’s no need to go over the top on formal night on river cruises in Europe. You can wear black pants and dressier top or a simple black dress and pashmina. No need to bring heels, your sandals will do fine. Pop on a statement necklace and you’re good to go. Men can pack a sport coat if they like but a long sleeved shirt and pants will do.

Dressing for the Season

If you’re traveling outside the peak of summer weather can be quite changeable so clothes you can layer are ideal. Check the long range weather forecast on a site like Accuweather when planning out what to wear on a Viking river cruise to help.

We have noted different quantities for items based on season in our packing list below but here is a quick guide on what to wear on a river cruise in Winter, Spring, Summer and Fall:

River Cruising in Summer – Summer river cruise attire is pretty easy. Think light summer dresses, capris & vest tops, skirts and blouses. Make sure you pack at least one cardigan in case of chilly nights or the odd cooler day.
River Cruising in Spring – Spring in Europe can bring nice weather but it can also be changeable. Layering is key. Bring a couple of cardigans for over dresses and tees. Add in an extra pair of jeans. A light jacket like a denim jacket or utility jacket will also prove useful. April is notoriously wet in Europe so a waterproof jacket would be a good idea.
River Cruising in Fall – When packing for river cruise in Europe in the Fall, add in a few warmer layers like long sleeved tees, cardigans, leggings. A light waterproof layer like this is a must. In late Fall, a packable lightweight down jacket like this is also very useful to have in case of cold days. You’ll also want a pair of closed toe shoes like a comfortable ankle boot for walking in wet weather.
River Cruising in Winter – For winter river cruises in Europe, you’ll need a few more warmer layers, hat, gloves, scarf and ankle boots. Add in a packable down jacket and waterproof parka. Leave out the summer dresses and instead pack a few more jeans and jumpers. Merino layers like this are useful for providing extra warmth in cold weather.

Tips on How to Pack for a River Cruise

Know you know what to wear on a scenic river cruise, let’s go over how to pack for a river cruise. When packing for a European river cruise, you need to account for how many travel days you have before and after your cruise, how long your trip to Europe is and how you’ll be getting around once in Europe pre and post-cruise.

Here are a few tips for packing for a river cruise:

Pack light for Europe – If you pack light and smart then you’ll be able to fit this packing list into a carry on sized suitcase. Travel with just a carry on sized suitcase if you can manage.
Pick a color scheme – It makes it easier to mix & match outfits if you stick to a color scheme. Choose a few base neutrals like black, tan, navy & white for your pants, capris, skirts and outerwear. Add in a pop of co-ordinating color or print with your tops, tees, blouses and dresses. It makes it so much easier to dress! when all your tops go with all your bottom
Go for carry on sized luggage – Even if you plan on checking your bag for convenience on travel days, we still recommend using a small cabin sized suitcase for your European river cruise. It’s so much easier to travel in Europe with a smaller suitcase! Space is limited in Europe and a smaller bag is easier for travel on trains in Europe, impossibly small hotel elevators, tiny hotel rooms and the ship’s cabin.
Pack with packing cubes – Using packing cubes helps you organize your luggage efficiently, makes it easier to pack & unpack and helps you pack less. Use a large packing cubes for jeans, shorts & outwear, a medium sized packing cube for tops and a small packing cube for underwear. You can get packing cubes here on Amazon.
Get a hanging toiletry bag – A hanging toiletry bag is so much easier for cruising. This one by eBags is ideal as it packs flat and is easy to lay across the top of your suitcase contents.
Use a lightweight backpack or cross body travel bag for excursions – A lightweight backpack like this is great for excursion days. You can fold it up and pack it away in your luggage when not in use. For city excursions in Europe, a cross body bag works very well. Travel cross body bags like this with built in security to prevent pickpocketing and bag slashing are ideal. You can also get small backpacks like this with built in antitheft technology too.

Viking River Cruise Packing List

Here’s a complete list of what to pack for a Viking river cruise. You can download and print this river cruise packing list in PDF form here. We recommend printing and laying out all your items for packing for European river cruise so you can check them off as you go.

River Cruise Clothes

Tees and tops for day x 5-7 – T-shirts, sleeveless vests, blouses for women and t-shirts, polos and shirts for men. Pack a mix of short and long sleeved depending on season.
Evening tops x 3-4
Cardigan or sweater – 1 for Summer travel, 2 in Spring and 3-4 for Fall/Winter travel
Jacket – A denim jacket or utility jacket for Spring/Fall/Winter
Shorts or capri pants – 1 for women, 2 for men
Jeans – 1 for Summer, 2 for Spring/Fall/Winter
Khakis / chinos – For men
Skirts x 1-2 – Midi length are ideal for Europe. Or coluttes are also great!
Sundress / casual dress x 2 – Linen or light cotton in summer and a tunic-style with leggings in winter make great river cruise dresses.
Leggings for women / Jogger for men – Great for the plane!
Dress or nice top & black pants / sport coat & shirt for men for formal night (optional) – Most European river cruises don’t have a formal night!
Workout clothes (optional) – Most ships do not have a gym however
Swimsuit – For onboard hot tubs or thermal baths on excursions in paces like Budapest
Waterproof parka
Packable down jacket (in Fall/Winter)
Hat and gloves (in Fall/Winter)
Pashmina – Great for the plane or cooler evenings
Light scarf (in Spring/Summer)
Warm scarf (in Fall/Winter)
Sleepwear x 2
Underwear x 10
Bras x 3 – 1 nude, 1 white and 1 black works great for travel!
Socks x 5-7
Statement jewelry x 1-2 – Don’t bring any expensive jewelry!
Sneakers – Comfortable walking shoes are essential for sightseeing in Europe. You’ll be walking a lot and often on cobblestones. We LOVE Sketchers Go Walk sneakers for travel. They’re lightweight and super comfortable!
Sandals (in Spring/Summer) – Something you can wear in the evening or around the ship. Aerosoles sandals (like these) are very comfortable for walking. As are Vionic sandals (like these) .
Mules or flats (in Spring/Fall/Winter) – Something you can wear in the evening or around the ship. Vionic do great, comfortable flats (like these) .
Ankle boots (in Fall/Winter) – Good for walking in wetter, cooler weather. Lucky Brand Basel boots (like these) are a great choice.
Loafer or dressier shoes for men – Something you can wear in the evening or around the ship. Here’s a nice Vionic Men’s loafer.
Golf shoes (if required for your excursions)

River Cruise Essentials

Add these cruise and travel essentials to your packing list for river cruise in Europe!

Travel documents printed
Travel document wallet
Downy wrinkle release spray
Disinfectant spray / wipes – Spray or wipe down your cabin’s surfaces on arrival and use on your tray table & touch screen on the plane!
Hand sanitizer
Tide-to-go pen – For removing any stains on clothing
Travel laundry sheets – For handwashing any items you may want to re-wear
Tide pods – Put a couple of Tide pods in a Ziploc bag to use at the onboard as there is a laundry on Viking river cruise ships (or you can use a couple of the travel laundry sheets mentioned above!)
Travel umbrella
Compression socks for the long flight to Europe
Refillable water bottle
Travel coffee mug
Highlighter – For your daily cruise schedule

Viking ships with soap, shampoo, conditioner and body lotion so you don’t need to pack these. Choose travel size versions of your toiletries to help you pack light. Decant larger items into GoToobs or GoTubs if necessary.

Toothpaste (travel size)
Facial moisturiser / skin care
Make up – Decant larger items into GoTubs or ask for sample sizes at Sephora
Make up remover wipes
Lip balm – Especially in winter
Hand cream – Plane travel, using hand sanitizer and winter weather can dry the skin
Sunscreen (travel size & suitable for face)
Shaving cream (travel size)
Pain relief
Cold medicine
Allergy medicine
Motion sickness medicine
Small first aid kit
Any medication you require
Contacts & solution if you require

Electronics

Remember to check all your electronics are dual voltage before traveling to Europe. Most electronics generally are but watch out for things like your hair styling tools!

All chargers
European plug adapter – Your stateroom may have universal plugs but an adapter is still useful for travel before and after your cruise
Powerstrip without surge protector for cruise ships
European data sim or mobile wifi device
Powerbank – For charging on the go
Travel curling iron or travel hair straightener – Make sure it is dual voltage! (No need to bring a hair dryer as they have them on the ship.)

Questions on what to pack for river cruise in Europe?

If you have questions about what to wear on European river cruise or our river cruise tips for packing, leave a comment below and we’ll be happy to help. You can also join our Cruise Packing Tips Group on Facebook to ask questions and share your own tips for packing for cruises. We’d love to hear your tips and questions on what to pack for a European river cruise.

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River cruise packing list: What to pack when traveling by riverboat

You booked your river cruise, and the departure date approaches. Now you're panicking about what to pack.

You want to pack light, given you won't have much space in your cabin to store bulky suitcases. However, you also want to be prepared with the right clothing and gear for changeable weather on the river, visits to religious sites and the many walking and cycling tours you plan to do in port. How will you fit everything in a carry-on?

It seems like a lot, but there's no need to feel overwhelmed about packing for a river cruise. I've been on more than 125 cruises, including many river sailings.

Below are my top packing tips and a river cruise packing list for a river cruise in Europe, the United States, Asia or Africa. Follow these tips to take the stress out of your pre-trip prep.

For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .

What to pack on a river cruise

The first thing to understand is that where you cruise will dictate what you pack. The Nile River in July will be quite different than the Rhine in November, and you'll need different clothing and gear.

However, river cruises are often during warmer times of the year in places that may not see ice and snow. Typically, heavy outwear isn't needed. (At least not much of it — I was on a Tennessee River cruise in early November, and it snowed for several hours one day!)

Here's what to pack to get maximum use out of minimal luggage.

Related: Booking your first river cruise? Here's what you need to know.

Lightweight layers

The key to river cruise packing is layering.

On some rivers in Asia and Africa, such as Egypt's Nile River, it can get extremely hot during the day — we're talking 90-plus degrees Fahrenheit — but cool in the evenings.

Late-summer weather in Europe can also change frequently. During a river cruise in the Netherlands in early September, some days were hot and others rainy and chilly. For all these destinations, you'll want to be able to peel layers off and put them on again.

Layers are also convenient should you need to cover up your shoulders and legs to enter religious buildings like temples, monasteries and cathedrals.

Light scarves are useful for covering shoulders in religious places and covering your head and face when it's hot or dusty. Colorful scarves can also be a great accent piece for a dinner outfit on board.

For the best layering, think about packing several thin long- and short-sleeved T-shirts, as well as a jacket, such as an outdoorsy zip-up jacket or vest from Patagonia. I often bring a dark denim jacket for layering. It's warm and looks stylish when worn over T-shirts and accented with scarves.

Related: Cruise packing list: The ultimate guide to what to pack for a cruise

Casual clothes for day and night

River cruises involve full days of touring on land, so casual and comfortable clothing is key.

Cargo pants or shorts are a great idea on a river cruise, especially for the popular cycling and walking excursions. You can stash your phone, a thin wallet and even sunscreen or bug spray in the large pockets, leaving your hands free to navigate a bicycle or walking sticks.

It may sound counterintuitive, but for very hot places in Southeast Asia, India, Egypt, Amazon region and Europe in August, it's best to wear long sleeves when touring, even in the hottest summer months. This will protect you from sunburn.

Prepare for various temperatures and pack lightweight breathable fabrics. I prefer thin cotton tops, while my husband likes the moisture-wicking shirts from Arcteryx and similar brands. Both kinds take up little suitcase space and dry quickly when hand-washed.

Some of the newer riverboats from lines like AmaWaterways and Scenic have small pools on deck, so pack a swimsuit if you'd like to take a dip.

Related: Best river cruise lines around the world

When it comes to dining, river cruises are generally casual. You can even have dinner wearing what you wore on the afternoon's excursions — within reason. I wouldn't wear cargo shorts to dinner, but I'd wear jeans.

That said, especially on Europe river cruises, most folks like to wear a nicer shirt or top for dinner layered with a nice scarf, vest or a thin easy-to-fold jacket. Passengers on higher-end river cruise lines in Europe (such as Uniworld and AmaWaterways) tend to dress up in the evenings more than guests on more affordable cruises.

No river cruise line will expect you to bring suit jackets or sparkly clothes. However, I've seen women in cocktail dresses and men in sport coats on Europe and Mississippi river cruises.

Related: What to wear on a cruise: Cruise attire and cruise line dress codes

Bring a pair of sturdy sneakers or light trekking shoes for excursions that may require long city walks in Europe and the U.S. or hiking on dirt roads or rocky paths in more rural areas in India, Laos, Cambodia and the Amazon. Alpine-style hiking boots are not necessary.

For Southeast Asia and India river cruises, bring a comfortable slip-on shoe, like a pair of Crocs, that are easy to get off and on because you'll have to remove shoes before going into temples. You're usually allowed to wear socks, so bring multiple lightweight ankle or no-show socks you can easily wash in your cabin sink when they get dusty from walking on dirt roads.

Ideally, bring a third pair of shoes to wear inside your cabin and around the boat's interior, such as sandals, boat shoes, flats or whatever casual lightweight shoe you prefer. I never travel without my hot pink Birkenstocks; they're cute and versatile, without or with socks.

Accessories and travel gear

Clothing isn't the only thing you'll need to pack for your river cruise. The No.1 accessory you should pack is a lightweight backpack, fanny pack or sling bag that is easy to carry on walking or biking tours or on more active treks.

Riverboats that offer the use of bicycles should provide helmets, but the options may not always fit the way you like. If you plan on cycling a lot (we cycled daily, sometimes twice a day on a recent AmaWaterways Netherlands and Belgium river cruise), consider bringing your own. The helmet may take up valuable real estate in your luggage, but it's a must if you're fussy about what you put on your head.

I like to wear a thin baseball cap under the helmets I borrow from cruise lines. The visor of the cap keeps the sun or rain away from your eyes. Also, if you're uncomfortable wearing a previously-worn helmet, a ballcap can be a barrier to keep you from touching the hat directly. You can also tie a bandana on your head before putting on the borrowed helmet.

Ask your cruise line if it gifts passengers a reusable aluminum-style water bottle to fill up on board and use during shore excursions. If yours doesn't, bring your own lightweight refillable water bottle as an eco-friendly practice to cut down on single-use plastic waste.

Related: 20 must-have cruise items — including a roll of duct tape

If river cruising in Southeast Asia, India, South America or Africa, bring a small bag of your preferred medicines because you might not find the brands or names you're used to in port. Also, bring your pain reliever of choice, and anti-diarrhea medicine, just in case.

Also, carry a small container of insect repellent, for excursions and your room, on cruises in tropical places where mosquitos and other bugs are prevalent.

Since evening entertainment on a river cruise is minimal — typically a bit of music after dinner or nothing at all — consider packing your own evening entertainment.

Bring books, an e-reader or a tablet, but make sure to download books and movies to your device before your trip. Wi-Fi can be weak on riverboats anywhere in the world, so you may not have a signal to read the newspaper in real-time or stream the latest episode of your favorite show.

Tips for river cruise packing

River cruise boat cabins are often on the small side compared to cabins on big cruise ships, so you don't want to over-pack.

Riverboat cabins are also not as uniform as those on ocean-going ships. European fleets may be more similar, but lines in North America and Asia can have quirky, one-of-a-kind ships. Don't assume you'll have as much room on one line as you did on another.

Riverboats may not provide much (or any) space under the beds for bulky suitcases, and closets (if there are any) are compact, so small suitcases or soft duffels are ideal.

There are exceptions, such as the high-end riverboats in Europe from lines like Uniworld and AmaWaterways; larger riverboats like the 417-passenger American Queen on the Mississippi River; and luxury lines like Aqua Expeditions cruising in Asia and the Amazon. These ships offer more storage space in generally larger cabins.

Related: Cruise ship packing mistakes you want to avoid at all costs

Many riverboats also don't include self-service laundry rooms (though some deluxe Europe riverboats will). Some don't have laundry service either. If you want to pack light, bring undergarments and layering tops that dry quickly, so you can wash in the bathroom sink and hang them to dry.

River cruise packing list

With all this in mind, here is a suggested packing list for your river cruise vacation:

Multiple lightweight tops and T-shirts, including long-sleeved versions for sun protection.
Bottoms, such as leggings, lightweight cargo pants, jeans, khakis, slacks and skirts.
Evening wear like casual dresses, slacks and nice shirts.
Multiple pairs of lightweight underwear and socks.
A lightweight cotton scarf or sarong.
A lightweight but warm jacket, cardigan and/or thin fleece for chilly mornings or evenings.
Sturdy shoes, such as sneakers or simple hiking shoes.
A comfortable slip-on shoe for visiting religious sites or for evenings on board.
Light backpack or fanny pack for excursions.
Water-proof zip-top or small bag for your phone and camera for protection in rainy weather and when aboard small launches used for excursions.
Local and U.S. currency in small bills for purchasing drinks, snacks and souvenirs and for tipping local guides.
Reading materials (books and e-readers) and/or a tablet.
Sunscreen and bug spray.
Sunglasses.
Lightweight compact umbrella for both rain and sun protection. (Many river cruise lines provide umbrellas, but they're often the large non-folding kind that aren't convenient to carry around all day.)
Prescriptions and basic medicines.
Chargers for your electronics, plus a portable charger to ensure your phone is always juiced up on long excursions.
Multi-prong adaptors so you can use both the North American 100- to 120-volt and European 220- to 240-volt outlets on the river cruise boat. (The newest luxury riverboats may have standard USB charging outlets in the lamps on the bedside tables.)

Bottom line

The key to river cruise packing boils down to two important themes.

First, don't over-pack or bring giant suitcases that won't fit in your cabin.

Second, dress for success with lots of lightweight layers. Understand the climate and the activities you'll experience in your river cruise destination, and you have a recipe for the perfect packing job.

Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:

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What to Pack for a European River Cruise for All Seasons

Europe Packing List , Packing , Packing Tips

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If you’re heading off on a Europe river cruise soon and unsure what to bring, get advice from the experts: the TFG readers! They’re sharing their top tips on what items to pack for your exciting trip!

River Boat Cruise Europe Packing List

Table of contents.

Europe remains a much-visited continent and while hitting the towns and cities is one way to see what it has to offer, taking a European river cruise is becoming increasingly popular! A river cruise is definitely a unique kind of trip, as it’s a little slower, a bit more intimate, and still full of breathtaking views and history.

So, when it comes to what to pack for a European river cruise , there are a lot of things to take into account. For instance, it’s super important to bring clothes that are versatile and pack well, as you won’t have as much space for luggage, and there won’t be features like an ironing board available, either.

A second important factor is the weather in Europe can vary drastically from season to season, so it’s always important to dress for the time of year. Readers highly recommend looking at weather forecasts ahead of time and using a weather app like The Weather Channel .

How Long Are European River Cruises and When Is Best to Go?

The length of a cruise varies, as some are as short as four days, while others can be as long as 15 days! You can download this printable packing list for free to plan your European adventure, no matter the length!

Peak season tends to be May to September, but it can get very crowded and be quite hot and humid! Readers say cheaper cruises are offered in spring, especially for tulip season in places like the Netherlands. And, of course, some of the most popular European river cruises are to partake in the enchanting Christmas markets in Eastern Europe or in such popular countries as Austria and Germany .

The clothing and shoe items you bring will depend on the activities you have planned, whether it’s strolling through gorgeous tulip gardens in Amsterdam or trekking through snowy streets buying gifts at the Christmas markets in Salzburg!

Perhaps you aren’t embarking on a river cruise, but still need help with general packing for Europe, these resources are useful:

The Ultimate Guide to Packing for Europe in Spring
The Ultimate Guide to Packing for Europe in Summer
The Ultimate Guide to Packing for Europe in Fall
The Ultimate Guide to Packing for Europe in Winter
How to Choose the Best Travel Shoes for Europe

Readers are happy to share their top tips and tricks to prepare for an amazing European river cruise, both for warmer and colder months. Read further below to see a river cruise packing list for all seasons!

If you’re wondering what to pack for a cruise vacation , check out this awesome cruise packing list!

What to Wear on a River Cruise in Europe

While your typical cruise is mostly about having fun onboard, river cruises are all about exploring the sights of each destination you stop at and experiencing the culture around you. For this reason, river cruises are much more casual and easy to dress for. The main things to focus on when choosing clothes are comfort, packability, and because it’s Europe, a little bit of style, too!

Taos Plim Soul Leather Sneakers are sturdy and stylish for a slow cruise down the waterways

Readers say most of your time will be spent sightseeing, taking walking tours, visiting ancient ruins, and overall being on your feet most of the day. For this reason, dressing comfortably is the #1 priority when packing–especially shoes!

Though because you’ll be out and about in stylish European cities, choosing chic, neutral pieces is always a great idea. A good rule of thumb is to keep things polished and simple to fit in with the European style.

The Columbia Freezer Dress is mid-length and perfect for Europe | Sizes XS-XXL

TFG readers tell us that it’s good to have some modest options, even in warmer weather, in case you visit churches and other culturally significant sights where covered shoulders and longer bottoms are. Things like long shorts and midi-length dresses are great, and they’re also super stylish!

Travelers and readers report that river cruises don’t have a formal night, and the dress codes aren’t as strict, so you won’t need a fancy dress. However, if you want a bit more oomph, a cute pair of sandals or wedges in the spring and summer and a nice pair of boots in the fall and winter will cover you even for nicer dinners!

Regardless of the time of year, readers recommend always bringing layers. Spring cruises can be chilly, and fall cruises can be super warm! It’s best to prepare for different weather situations, and layering is always key, no matter the season.

Find out the top reader recommendations for the best white sneakers !

What to Pack On a European River Cruise in Spring and Summer

According to readers, packing for a European river cruise in the spring and summer is pretty easy! Some staples are comfy and versatile pants or shorts, light summer dresses, t-shirts, and blouses. Definitely make sure you bring a sweater to layer, too.

Spring in Europe can definitely be rainy, so readers also recommend bringing a light rain jacket, too. Here’s what to wear on a European river cruise in the spring and summer!

J. Jill Wearever Smooth-Fit Slim-Leg Pants | Sizes XS-4X Regular, Petite & Tall

Pants for a Spring and Summer European River Cruise

For pants, opt for a comfortable pair that still looks nice, is versatile enough to wear with different tops, and easily transitions from day to night. Your river cruise trip will include a lot of walking under the sun, so staying cool and having ample mobility is super important to keep in mind when choosing your travel pants!

TFG readers LOVE the Wearever Smooth-Fit Slim-Leg Pants by J.Jill . This pair is made for travel! They allow for lots of movement, they’re flattering, versatile, and pack amazingly well! Plus, these are a super chic option, so they’re great for a European adventure!

They can take you from casual sightseeing by day to a nicer dinner by night. (Check out the more of these awesome pants here !)

J.Crew Long Chino Shorts | Sizes 00-16

If shorts are your preference, a pair of long lightweight shorts would be perfect for staying cool while sightseeing, or even dressed up with sandals and a cute blouse for dinner! Like the classic chino shorts pictured from J. Crew, a longer length is much more versatile than something shorter.

If you want more pants or shorts ideas for a European river cruise, check out these articles:

Best Cropped Pants
Best Lightweight Elastic Waist Pants
Best Summer Shorts for Women
Best Rompers and Jumpsuits

Madewell Whisper V-Neck Pocket Tee | Sizes XXS-XXL

Tops for a Spring and Summer European River Cruise

In the spring and summer, choose simple, easy tops that are interchangeable with your pants and can be layered for cooler evenings. A classic tee like the Whisper Cotton V-Neck from Madewell is a perfect addition to a European travel wardrobe. It’s lightweight, breathable, chic, and makes for an effortless outfit paired with slacks and sandals.

Eddie Bauer Departure 3.0 Long-Sleeve Shirt Sizes: XS-XXL Regular | S-L Petite | M-XXL Tall | 2X-3X Tall

It can get quite hot and steamy in certain parts of Europe during summer, so if you want an excellent item to protect your arms in the summer, a UPF shirt like the Eddie Bauer Departure Long-Sleeve is endlessly versatile!

The sleeves can be rolled up or down, and the top is lightweight, breathable, moisture-wicking, AND has sun protection! It’s the perfect top for sightseeing or sitting on the deck and enjoying the view! You can grab the Departure shirt in regular, petite, tall, and plus sizes here !

Overall, when picking tops for spring and summer river cruises, think breathable, simple, and versatile.

If you want more shirt and t-shirt ideas for a European river cruise, check out these articles:

Best T-Shirts for Women
Best Travel Shirts Recommended by Readers
Best Linen Shirts for Summer
Top Women’s Wrinkle-Free Shirts

Quince Linen Button Front Dress | Sizes X S-XL

Dresses for a Spring and Summer European River Cruise

Dresses are always fun and stylish travel options, especially in Europe! While readers say river cruises aren’t overly fancy, many like the option of dressing up a bit at dinner or styling up a sightseeing look.

An airy linen dress like the one pictured by Quince is perfect for a summer cruise! Something breathable is a must for warm days. It can be worn with comfy sneakers on a walking tour and with sandals for an evening out! Plus, it’s modest enough to be worn in religious or culturally significant sites.

Eddie Bauer Aster Crossover Dress Sizes: XS-XXL Regular | S-L Petite | M-XXL Tall | 2X-3X Plus

Another cute sundress option is the Eddie Bauer Aster Dress . This dress can handle any adventure your cruise takes you on! It’s flattering, hits right at the knee, and is lightweight! Another hot tip from readers is to consider linen dresses , as this amazing fabric draws away moisture and keeps you dry and cool.

For more dress ideas for a spring and summer European river cruise, read these articles:

Best Travel Dresses for Europe
Best White Dresses for Women
Best Vacation Maxi Dresses
Best Midi Dresses for Summer

Quince Cashmere Duster Cardigan Sweater | Sizes XS-XL

Layering Item for a Spring and Summer European River Cruise

Definitely pack a layering item! Even if it’s hot during the day, temperatures can definitely drop at night, so bringing a sweater along is always a smart idea. Springtime in Europe can be a bit unpredictable as well, so overall, it’s best to be prepared with a trusty cardigan.

This Quince Cashmere Cardigan is absolutely dreamy! It’s long, soft, and warm, and perfect for lounging on board the ship, or for a sightseeing excursion where you might want to layer up.

J.Crew Juliette Collarless Sweater-Blazer | Sizes XXS-3X

In the summer, it’ll be much hotter and the occasion for a layer may not be necessary. However, if you opt for one here and there, you could don a breathable merino wool sweater-blazer that’s unstructured and can double as a light layer. The J. Crew Juliette Blazer is a top reader favorite and so chic for those European cruise stops!

For more layering ideas for a spring and summer European river cruise, read these articles:

Best Cardigans for Women
Best Travel Blazer Brands According to Our Readers
Best Versatile Sweatshirts

Eddie Bauer Girl on the Go Trench Coat Sizes: XS-XXL Regular | XS-XL Petite | S-XXL Tall | 1X-3X Plus

Jackets for a Spring and Summer European River Cruise

Springtime in Europe can often be a little bit rainy and have unpredictable weather, though it depends on the countries you’ll be passing through. Because of this, readers have told us that another essential item for river cruises in Europe is a rain jacket.

A lightweight and packable rain jacket will really come in handy, whether it’s protecting you from sudden rain showers or simply blocking the wind on an evening spent by the water!

One of the most popular rain jackets on the blog is the Eddie Bauer Girl on the Go Trench . Readers rave about this jacket! It’s cozy and waterproof, while still being lightweight and breathable. TFGs also love the flattering fit, and that it’s available in regular, petite, tall, and plus sizes, right here .

Also available on Amazon here !

J.Crew Classic Denim Jacket | Sizes XXXS-3X

In the summer, you may not need a rain jacket as much, but you could pack a lightweight jacket that can be worn on deck or when you’re off the boat visiting markets or significant sites.

The J.Crew Classic Denim Jacket is uber-popular because of how versatile and durable it is, but it also has adequate secure pockets to store items without worry. If you want to know more about this amazing jacket, read here !

For more jacket ideas for a spring and summer European river cruise, read these articles:

Best Packable Rain Jacket
Lightweight Denim Jackets for Travel
Best Waterproof Trench Coats
Best Rain Jacket With a Hood

Waterproof Allbirds Wool Runner Mizzles

Shoes for a Spring and Summer European River Cruise

Comfortable walking shoes are the most essential item to pack for a cruise! You’ll be walking a LOT, and often on cobblestone streets. While it’s nice to dress stylishly in fashion-forward cities, if you’re not comfortable, it’s definitely not worth it! Luckily, there are cute and comfy options for travel.

Spring can definitely bring the odd rain shower, so besides packing a lightweight rain jacket , consider some waterproof shoes, like the Allbirds Wool Runner Mizzles . These are a top reader favorite and the ultimate European cruise shoe, especially in the springtime. They can handle rain, puddles, and slippery surfaces with ease! For more waterproof sneaker options, check out these !

But don’t forget slip-ons! They’re an excellent choice for spring and summer weather because of how easy they are to put on and take off, and many of them are made with a breathable upper.

Readers are huge fans of the Ecco Soft 7 Slip On Sneakers . They have a pretty, minimalist look that suits Europe perfectly, and they’re also amazingly comfortable and supportive–they really do it all!

Ecco Flowt 2 Cushioned Band Sandals

Sandals are essential summertime footwear. A cute and comfy walking sandal is ideal for wearing around the ship, to dinner, or even to sightsee in, especially on hot summer days. Readers are obsessed with the Ecco Flowt and many wear these to Europe.

They’re a chic, strappy sandal with an ultra-comfy footbed, and the leather straps give it a slightly dressier feel, making them a perfect addition to a European-style travel wardrobe!

Another popular sandal for walking is the Taos Trulie Sandals . They boast a cork footbed that absorbs shock and have easy velcro straps for a snug, comfy fit. And, they come in wide sizes too!

For more sandal and sneaker ideas for a spring and summer European river cruise, read these articles:

Best White Sneakers
Best Slip On Sneakers
Most Comfortable Walking Sandals
Best Tan Sandals for Summer

Wallaroo Victoria Sun Hat

Accessories for a Spring and Summer European River Cruise

A lot of readers suggest a sun hat for a summer cruise because they’re handy for long days under the sun, and can add a cute touch to your sightseeing look! Readers adore the Wallaroo Victoria sun hat . It’s stylish, adjustable, easy to pack, and offers UPF 50+ sun protection! In fact, we also love Wallaroo so much, that we culled together a review on their winning hats —take a look!

A scarf or wrap is always a great option to dress up an outfit, keep yourself warm if temperatures drop in the evening, or cover your shoulders when the sun is shining strong.

Mersea Classic Wrap

The Mersea Wrap is bestselling on the blog, and for good reason! It’s beautiful, cozy, and was designed with travel in mind! Users love that you can both snuggle up with it on a plane ride and layer it over a dress for a night out!

For more accessory ideas for a spring and summer European river cruise, read these articles:

Best Sun Hats According to Our Readers
Best Sun Protective Clothing for Women
Best Travel Wrap and Shawls for Vacation

Here are comfortable walking sandals that are stylish, too!

What to Pack on A European River Cruise in Fall and Winter

When packing for a European river cruise in the fall and winter, you’ll definitely need to bring more layers like long sleeve tees, merino wool sweaters, and cozy leggings, as well as additional accessories to keep you warm.

And if you’re planning a winter cruise, a warm, insulated coat is a must! As far as shoes go, readers say boots are the best option. Here’s how to dress for a European river cruise in the colder months!

Betabrand Dress Pant Yoga Pants | Sizes XS-3X Petite, Regular, Long

Pants for a Fall and Winter European River Cruise

In the fall and winter months, comfy pants will be your go-to! Readers suggest basic, dark pants for cooler weather cruises in Europe, and they absolutely go with anything and can be worn anywhere! While you’ll want to stay warm, especially in the winter, making sure your pants are breathable and allow for a good amount of mobility is important because river cruises involve a lot of walking.

Readers love Betabrand Yoga Pants , which look like dress pants but feel like comfy yoga pants! These pants are absolutely amazing for travel. You can really move and be active in them, yet they look so classy and nice, so you can wear them for fancier outings as well.

Camii Mia Fleece Pants | Sizes 25W-38W

With pants for winter specifically, make sure to always layer beneath with thermals to stay warm. You can opt for cold weather pants too, such as the highly popular Cami Outdoor Slim Pants that are fleece-lined but also water and wind proof. The Christmas markets can be magical, but they’re still chilly!

For more pants ideas for a fall and winter European river cruise, read these articles:

Best Cold Weather Pants
Most Comfortable Pants for Women
Best Fleece Lined Leggings
Best Faux Leather Leggings

J.Crew Cashmere Classic-fit Crewneck Sweater | Sizes XXXS-3X

Tops for a Fall and Winter European River Cruise

Long sleeve shirts and sweaters are more practical for fall and winter in Europe. Simple long sleeve tees are great to mix and match with various bottoms, and can easily be layered under a sweater and a coat.

A warm, cozy sweater is a MUST for a European river cruise when it’s chilly! Readers love cashmere sweaters, and the top selling J. Crew Cashmere Sweater is lightweight, yet super warm! It comes in sizes XXXS-3X .

ibex Merino Wool Scoop Neck 24 Long Sleeve | Sizes XS-XL

A reader fave for layering is the ibex Scoop Neck Long Sleeve . It’s composed of merino wool, is odor-reducing, breathable, and keeps warmth in. It’s a wonderful travel piece, not just for fall/winter, but other times of the year as well!

If you want a more dressy top, this Linen Button Down Shirt from Quince has a classic, sophisticated look. Wearers say it’s super flattering and slimming fit and is so versatile.

If you’re going to be out and about for long periods of time in the winter, admiring historical architecture or exploring markets, readers suggest layering with thermal tops or even other pieces of merino wool clothing to be extra toasty.

For more shirt ideas for a fall and winter European river cruise, read these articles:

Best Merino Wool Sweaters for Women
Best Long Sleeve T-Shirts
Best Thermal Underwear: Tops and Leggings
Best Tunic Sweaters

Wool& Rowena Swing Dress | Sizes XS-XL

Dresses for a Fall and Winter European River Cruise

Some readers report being able to wear a dress here and there on their fall and winter river cruises. These make easy all-in-one outfits, so opt for a midi-length dress or skirt that will keep the chill away.

A lovely dress option for fall is the Wool& Merino Rowena Dress . It has long sleeves for coverage and a flared A-line skirt that’s elegant and demure. Perfect for dinners or those occasions when you want to elevate your look!

Quince Cashmere Turtleneck Sweater Dress | Sizes XS-XL

If you plan on booking a cruise during the Christmas market season, a knit dress made of wool or merino wool is the way to go! Quince is endlessly a winner with readers and the Turtleneck Sweater Dress looks cozy enough for walking the market stalls to a dinner at the captain’s table.

With all the dresses, you can add ankle boots or knee-high boots to accentuate your look—and don’t forget cozy tights to keep the legs warm!

For more dress ideas for a fall and winter European river cruise, read these articles:

Best Winter Dresses for Women
Best Merino Wool Dresses
Best Convertible Travel Dresses

Columbia Pardon My Trench Jacket | Sizes XS-3X

Jackets for a Fall and Winter European River Cruise

During the fall, Europe temperatures average between the 40s and 70s Fahrenheit ( that’s 4 and 21 Celsius) , and by October there can be rain to contend with. Readers suggest packing a waterproof jacket, and a very popular one is the Columbia Pardon My Trench . It’s a modern, coat with a hood that has water-resistant construction for lightweight coverage on drizzly days.

Eddie Bauer Superior Down Parka Sizes: XS-XXL Regular | XS-S Petite | 1X-3X Plus

If you’re embarking on a winter European river cruise, it’s going to be beautiful and festive, but also very cold! You’ll definitely want to pack a warm winter coat so you can comfortably shop at Christmas markets and take in the gorgeous sights around you! You’ll also want your coat to be waterproof to protect you from rain, or even snow!

Responsibly sourced down jackets are a hit with readers for cold days in Europe, and a TFG fave is the Eddie Bauer Superior Down Parka . It has a minimalistic yet polished look that can handle any weather with ease and is not bulky to wear.

Another highly recommended winter jacket is the Columbia Carson Pass II . It has a thermal lining for optimal warmth, and the outer fabric is waterproof yet breathable and offers plenty of mobility. And don’t forget to protect your extremities with a knit hat , a scarf , and winter gloves !

For more jacket ideas for a fall and winter European river cruise, read these articles:

Travel Raincoats for Women
Best Fall Coats
Best Winter Parka for Travel
Best Women’s Down Parka

Blondo Dagger Waterproof Boots

Shoes for a Fall and Winter European River Cruise

When the weather turns in the fall, the best shoes to wear should be waterproof and super reliable. Europeans love their leather boots , and it never hurts to follow their lead when preparing for your own trip!

Readers suggest a waterproof boot like the Blondo Dagger , which is a top seller on the blog! These boots are not only stylish and sure to spice up any outfit, but they’re fully waterproof, cushioned for support, and have great traction, even on wet and slushy streets.

Sorel Emelie III Chelsea Boots

When full-on winter hits in Europe, a boot that doesn’t let in any moisture (aka, cold) is what many readers say keep their tootsies warm. The Sorel Emelie Chelsea Boots is one such popular pick, known for its sturdy traction on a variety of terrain. These puppies will keep your feet dry, and the cushy molded footbeds mean they’re comfy enough to walk all day through snowy and slushy cobblestone streets!

Besides ankle boots, don’t discount long boots. There are many options that are waterproof and cushioned, check out the most comfortable knee-high boots for more!

Readers strongly emphasize the importance of layering when it comes to winter cruise attire. Not only should you wear thermal underwear beneath clothes, but merino wool socks will be your feet’s best friend on chilly outings, so definitely pack those!

For more shoe ideas for a fall and winter European river cruise, read these articles:

Best Waterproof Boots
Best Women’s Leather Boots
Chelsea Boots Women Love
Best Black Ankle Boots

Find out our readers’ picks for the best black ankle boots for traveling!

What Luggage and Handbags to Bring for a European River Cruise

Luggage may seem like a no-brainer but one thing to consider on a boat is tightened spaces to deal with on board and in your sleeping cabin. It’s best to bring a lightweight, durable suitcase that is easy to store and has secure wheels that won’t roll off on you!

Conversely, a day bag that you’ll use for sightseeing should be sturdy and have good organizational ability. Generally, backpack or crossbody styles are most popular.

Since pickpockets are something to consider in Europe, having a bag with anti-theft features is a plus too! See what readers recommend for both luggage and a travel day bag!

Delsey Paris Chatelet 21” Hardside Carryon Suitcase With Brake

Luggage for a European River Cruise

Carryon suitcases are highly recommended for travel to Europe in general, and especially for a cruise down the European famous waterways. The overhead bins on airplanes to Europe tend to be a bit smaller, as will the ship’s storage space be when you get on board. Readers say smaller bags are much easier to maneuver through Europe’s tiny streets, staircases, elevators, and hotel rooms, too.

The Delsey Paris Chatelet 21” is a perfect little option for this type of travel. At 21”, it’s just small enough to be allowed on most planes to Europe, while providing a decent amount of packing space. This hardside version also comes with a brake too, so it won’t roll around on the ship!

Away The Carry On

Another reader favorite is Away The Carry On 21” Suitcase , as it’s small and easy to maneuver, and readers rave about how much they can fit quite a bit as it has packing compartments on both sides!

If your cruise is bound for the winter markets, a big reader tip is to take a packable duffle. The Wandf Packable Duffel Bag is a top choice and can easily be stored in your suitcase until you’ve you’re ready to find some gems and take them home.

Compass Rose Compression Slim Packing Cubes

Seasoned travelers in the TFG Community swear by Compass Rose Packing Cubes for your carryon. They help keep things organized and save SO much space! Check out this 5-part video series on how to use packing cubes and our review on why they are so popular for packing clothing!

For more luggage options for a European river cruise, read these articles:

Best Carry-on Suitcases for Europe
Best International Carry On Luggage
Best Hardside Luggage
Best Softside Luggage

TUMI Voyageur Just In Case Backpack

Personal Item for a European River Cruise

Your carryon personal item or day bag is a detail that shouldn’t be missed. TFGs love bags that are roomy enough to carry daily or airplane essentials, but have good organization too, so it’s easy to find things. Also, it has to be lightweight, so it doesn’t feel cumbersome or awkward to carry while sightseeing.

A huge reader fave is the Tumi Just In Case Backpack !! I’ve owned the Carson backpack , and the Just In Case is a packable, compact version that looks attractive is spacious enough, and goes with virtually every kind of outfit!

You can read about why readers love Tumi in this review !

Travelon Anti-Theft Messenger Bag

Since pickpockets are a concern for some, many readers opt for a bag with anti-theft features for peace of mind. The Travelon Messenger Bag is chock full of such features. It’s equipped with cut-proof shoulder straps, lockable compartments, and a variety of organizational pockets both outside and inside to keep items hidden discreetly.

Its main compartment is ultra roomy too, capable of holding items such as iPads, cameras, and notebooks. You can even carry a water bottle and umbrella!

Another great method of protecting belongings is using a Secret Bra Wallet to stash vital cash and cards. It clips onto a bra strap (and even underwear!), and is perfect in case of emergencies. See our full review on this amazing anti-theft tool.

For more personal item options for a European river cruise, read these articles:

Best Crossbody Purses
Best Anti-theft Travel Bags
Best Convertible Backpack
Best Travel Tote Bag

Bagsmart Hanging Toiletry Bag

Final European River Cruise Tips

These last tips are really helpful to remember even the little things:

Many readers recommend a hanging toiletry bag for cruises. They’re easy to pack and don’t take up the entire bathroom counter, as counter space will be quite limited on board the cruise ship!
Another great storage tip a reader shared is to bring a shoe organizer to hang over a door, saying that it comes in handy for so many things, not just shoes. You can store bathroom items, sunscreens , medicine, accessories, and more! It’s a smart way to add extra storage place in small rooms.
Readers talk about the benefits of handwashing on board. While many cruise lines offer laundry services, a lot of TFGs find handwashing their clothes to be much more convenient. Find tips for washing clothes while traveling here !
For the hotter season, one reader recommends bringing a travel fan . Europe is known for not having air conditioning, so having a little portable fan to bring around with you while sightseeing is a wonderful way to cool off!

If you want more Europe assistance, check out our ultimate packing ebooks and our dedicated packing lists split by country!

Have you done a European river cruise? Share your top tips in the comments below!

For more tips on European travel, please read:

The Ultimate Packing Guide for Vacation in Europe
Nine Month Packing List for Europe
3 Week Packing List for Europe
2 Week Packing List for Europe

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10 comments.

This was very helpful when planning our Christmas Market cruise on the Rhine River. All of the tips, tricks and suggestions really help!

Thank you for this section on European River Cruises! I will be going on one in the Spring and this information is so great!

Getting ready to go on a river cruise, your recommendations are so helpful! Thank you.

Hubs and I did our Rhine river cruise in June. This article on What to Pack for a River Cruise was beyond helpful. I used this knowledge as my baseline and it was invaluable. Because of this advice, I packed a great wardrobe for our grand adventure. Thanks TFG!

So excited for my first European River Boat Cruise! I just can’t get enough tips and advice to plan my perfect vacation. Lots of good tidbits here, thanks.

Thanks for all of the tips. Have seen and purchased many products that I’ve seen in this group. I think I will be much better prepared for my river cruise next year.

Can’t wait to one day go on my first European river cruise…

Just returned from my 2nd European river cruise—this time on the Rhine from Antwerp to Basel then a few days in Paris. Fabulous trip! One thing I’d like to add is don’t forget packing cubes, regardless of the season. I liked the compression cubes for underwear, socks, pajamas, scarves, etc.—items I didn’t worry about wrinkles. Non-compression cubes worked to keep other categories organized.

Thanks for all the tips! Going on our first river cruise this Christmas and am already starting to pull together my cold weather capsule wardrobe – started with your recommendations from the Nordy’s Sale!

My gosh, I feel prepared to go after just reading that!

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Already booked? , Tips
River cruise dress codes: What to pack?

by Emma Smith - 04/10/2018

Dress codes can vary depending on your cruise line, time of day and even where you sail.

Suitcase space is limited so we have compiled a guide on our river cruise lines and their dress codes to make it easy for you to plan your outfits!

AmaWaterways

The AmaWaterways dress code suggests country club casual on-board their ships, such as cotton or linen clothes. This could include trousers and shirt for men – without the need for a tie or jacket – and dresses or trousers with a blouse for women. During the Captain’s Dinner, guests are advised to dress up a little more in suits and cocktail dresses.

Group on-board Amadeus ship - River cruise

Guests on-board Amadeus are made to feel comfortable, with no specific dress code on-board. For dinner and special occasions, Amadeus are advised to wear elegant clothing.

Recommended items of clothing include comfortable walking shoes, sturdy sandals, a lightweight waterproof jacket and long sleeve shirts as some ports and excursions are over uneven terrain and can be quite cool.

Avalon Waterways

The dress code on-board Avalon Waterways is casual and comfortable, with the cruise line looking to make you feel at home on-board. However, during occasions such as the Captain’s Reception and the Farewell Dinner some guests prefer to dress up a little more.

The only specifications are as follows:

Guests are not permitted to wear shorts in the Dining Room or Panorama Lounge in the evenings
Bathing suits are worn only on the Sky Deck

CroisiEurope

CroisiEurope advises for guests to don a casual outfit during the day, recommending light suits and swimwear for warm weather and a sweater or jacket for cooler weather.

For dinners, cocktails and galas, CroisiEurope advises guests to dress up a little more with gentlemen wearing a jacket and tie.

Crystal Cruises

On-board a Crystal river cruise, guests are advised to wear comfortable and casual wear during the day. This includes the dining room, however, swimswuits, cover-ups, robes and baseball caps are not appropriate in the dining room during the day.

In the evenings, the dress code is Crystal Casual which is a dressed-up version of daytime dress code. Crystal Casual includes:

Women – Blouse, sweater, dress slacks, skirt and dresses
Men – Open-collar shirt, collared polo shirt, button-down shirt, dress shirt, dress pants and smart trousers. Sports coats are optional and no tie is required

Emerald Waterways

On-board Emerald Waterways guests are advised to follow a relaxed and comfortable dress code. In the evenings, the cruise line operates a smart-casual dress code including open-neck shirts with slacks and dresses. Guests can wear ties and jackets if they desire, but this is not required.

Emerald Waterways also hosts a Captain’s Reception, where guests may want to don their finery – though this is more cocktail dresses than ball gowns.

Couple on-board boat for a river cruise shore excursion

On-board APT river cruises the dress code is smart casual, though the cruise line advises on comfortable footwear for all tours and light, casual clothing for adventure tours.

Riviera Travel

Riviera Travel also carries a relaxed dress code, with comfortable and casual clothing alongside walking shoes for the day. In the evenings, guests can dress a little smarter – though this is not required.

On every cruise there’s a Captain’s Welcome Drink and Farewell Dinner, for these most guests dress up a little more though there’s no need for black tie or ball gowns.

Scenic River

Guests are free to wear what they wish during their time on-board Scenic River. However, it’s worth packing for the weather on your cruise depending on the regions you’re visiting.

Daytime dress codes are comfortable and casual, with a dress or two for the formal evening occasions.

Scenic advises guests to pack a comfortable pair of shoes for excursions and sandals for if the weather is warm. During specific Freechoice or Enrich events, bring a pair of smart shoes or heels.

Shearing has no dress codes throughout your journey, though you are travelling via coach and river cruise ship so we would suggest comfortable and casual clothes for the day, with something a little smarter for the evenings.

Tauck does not have a strict dress code and advises guests to pack comfortable and convenient clothes for both day and night. A slightly dressy outfit for certain evenings including the following:

Men – A blazer or sports coat, chinos and polo shirt
Women – Skirt, dressy top or simple dress

Uniworld advises guests to pack for a range of weather conditions, though there is no strict dress code on-board. Both onshore and on-board the cruise line recommends comfortable, smart-casual clothing including sturdy walking shows for shore excursions.

When dining ashore, attending special events or concerts men may want to bring a sports jacket and women a cocktail dress or pantsuit – ties are optional. On-board, the only advisories are that shorts are not allowed at dinner.

U by Uniworld

U by Uniworld’s dress code is straight and simple. They simply require guests to come as you are, with no requirements for dining or excursions.

Viking River

Dress is casual on-board Viking River, with shorts, slacks or jeans advised. Swimsuits, brief shorts, cover-ups and exercise attire should be reserved for the Fitness Centre, pool areas and Sports Deck.

Though there are no formal nights on-board Viking River cruises, evening dress is elegant casual across all dining venues, performances and special events. This includes:

Women – Dress, skirt or slacks with a sweater or blouse
Men – Trousers and collared shirt with a tie and jacket being optional

Jeans are not permitted at this time and evening dress excludes World Cafe where the dress remains casual after 6pm.

Book your river cruise with RiverVoyages.com

Look forward to picking your outfits for your next river cruise and book yourself on-board with RiverVoyages.com. Take your pick from our top selection of river cruises and browse our best deals by clicking the button below.

If you have any questions, or would like to know more, call our Cruise Concierge team on 0800 197 0854 for expert advice and award-winning service with your booking.

Have you cruised with any of the above river cruise lines before? What advice would you give about the dress codes? Let us know in the comments below!

About Emma Smith

Emma has more than seven years' experience as a writer and has been in the travel industry for nearly five years. She loves learning about new places and cruise ships coming to market, as well as discovering fun and exciting activities to do while you sail. She has cruised with Princess Cruises, Cunard, Celebrity Cruises, Virgin Voyages, Avalon Waterways and Royal Caribbean and is looking to get something in her diary for 2024! Her favourite things to see on a ship include excellent entertainment, a delicious cocktail menu and extraordinary dining venues.

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Decoding the Dress Code for Your River Cruise Adventure.

Wondering what to pack for your upcoming river cruise? You’re not alone!

One of the most common queries we receive from new river cruise customers is about the dress code. With luggage space typically limited to one suitcase per person, knowing what to bring is essential.

Here’s the good news: leave your dinner jacket and evening gown at home!

The Casual Elegance of River Cruising

Unlike the formal attire often associated with ocean cruises, river cruising offers a more relaxed atmosphere. While dress codes can vary slightly from one cruise line to another, the overarching theme is comfort with a touch of smart casual.

Example of Storage Space on board the Scenic Jasper – Balcony Suite 205 sq ft

What’s Different Onboard?

Storage Insights: In cabins like the Scenic Jasper’s Balcony Suite (205 sq ft) you’ll find ample hanging space and room under your bed for suitcases. Although space might seem tighter compared to ocean cruise cabins, your luggage allowance is the real limit, so pack without worry.

Wardrobe on board Scenic Jasper River Ship

Onboard Vibes: Feedback from our guests suggests that the dress code onboard is largely influenced by fellow cruisers. While each line may offer recommendations, enforcement is rare. For daytime and excursions, think shorts or light trousers in warm weather, and jeans with jumpers when it cools down.

Dining Dress Code: Lunch is casual, reflecting your daytime attire. Dinner, however, nudges towards smart casual, with shorts, T-shirts, and jeans generally discouraged. Special events like the Captain’s dinner are perfect for dressing up, though not mandatory. A cocktail dress or a jacket (tie optional) can elevate your evening.

(Me, ready to get off and start exploring all that the Douro has to offer)

Excursion Essentials: Comfort is key. Opt for comfortable walking shoes and clothes suitable for varying terrains. Don’t forget a light, water-resistant jacket and a sun hat for those sunny days. Remember, visits to religious sites may require modest attire; a scarf for covering shoulders is a respectful and easy option.

A Final Note: While Italy may be stringent about dress codes in religious sites, adopting a respectful approach to attire is recommended wherever your excursions take you.

Packing for a river cruise doesn’t have to be stressful at all. With a focus on comfort, practicality, and a sprinkle of smart casual for dinners and special events, you’ll be all set for a memorable journey. Happy cruising!

Riviera River Cruises – On Board Information AmaWaterways Cruising – Frequently Asked Questions

Viking River Cruises – Frequently Asked Questions

Avalon Waterways – On Board Information

About Simeon Leete

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What to Wear on a River Cruise in Europe?

Are you planning a river cruise in Europe and wondering what to wear?

From day-time casual wear to evening formal attire, packing the right clothing can make or break your cruise experience.

We will guide you through what to expect on a river cruise in Europe, what to pack, what to wear during the day and evening, and what not to wear.

Additionally, we will share tips for choosing the right clothing to ensure you’re both stylish and comfortable throughout your journey.

Key Takeaways:

Pack versatile clothing for a river cruise in Europe, considering both casual and formal attire for day and evening.
Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring destinations and participating in on-board activities.
Remember to pack sun protection, consider the weather and dress code, and avoid overpacking.

What to Expect on a River Cruise in Europe?

Embarking on a river cruise in Europe promises a delightful journey filled with picturesque views, cultural immersion, and unforgettable experiences along renowned rivers like the Rhine.

European river cruises offer a dreamy escape, meandering through historic cities like Budapest, Vienna, and Amsterdam, where grand architectural marvels and vibrant local markets beckon travelers to explore. Cruise operators like Tauck , Viking , and Uniworld elevate these journeys with luxurious accommodations, gourmet dining experiences, and expert-guided excursions that reveal the hidden gems of each destination.

Imagine sipping fine wine in the stunning vineyards of Burgundy or cruising past fairy-tale castles lining the Danube River – such experiences are the essence of a European river cruise.

Destinations

European river cruises offer a diverse range of destinations, from the enchanting Rhine River with its Christmas markets to exotic locales like the Philippines.

Exploring Europe’s waterways on a river cruise is a unique way to witness the continent’s beauty up close. The Rhine River is renowned for its charming villages and picturesque castles that line its banks, creating a storybook setting that captivates every traveler’s heart. Beyond the classic European gems lie hidden treasures like the mesmerizing landscapes of the Philippines, where crystal-clear waters and lush greenery await. These lesser-known destinations offer a blend of cultural immersion and natural wonders, adding a new dimension to the traditional European river cruise experience.

Accommodations

Accommodations on European river cruises, offered by reputable companies like AMAWaterways and Rossmanns, provide a luxurious and comfortable retreat for travelers seeking relaxation and elegance.

When embarking on a river cruise through picturesque European waterways, passengers can expect impeccable service and attention to detail in their accommodations . From spacious staterooms with plush bedding to panoramic windows offering stunning views of the passing landscapes, every aspect is designed to enhance the guest experience.

The onboard amenities rival those of high-end hotels, with gourmet dining options, cozy lounges for socializing, and well-equipped fitness centers for active travelers. Whether unwinding on the sun deck with a cocktail in hand or indulging in a rejuvenating spa treatment, every moment onboard is tailored for utmost relaxation.

On-board Activities

On-board activities on European river cruises cater to a range of interests, from enriching lectures by experts like Rick Steves to engaging travel-themed workshops and cultural performances.

These cruises aim to provide passengers with a holistic experience that goes beyond just sightseeing. From learning about the rich history of European destinations to hands-on workshops that delve into local customs, passengers have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the culture and traditions of each region they visit. The performances, ranging from traditional music concerts to interactive theater, add a fun and lively element to the journey, creating unforgettable memories for travelers of all ages.

What to Pack for a River Cruise in Europe?

Preparing for a river cruise in Europe involves thoughtful packing to ensure you have all essentials like comfortable shoes , toiletries, and appropriate luggage for a seamless and enjoyable journey.

Comfortable footwear is essential due to the amount of walking that may be involved during shore excursions, exploring quaint towns, and visiting historical sites along the riverbanks. Packing items like sunscreen, insect repellent, and personal hygiene products are important for staying comfortable and fresh throughout your journey.

Ensure you have a sturdy and lightweight suitcase or a travel backpack that fits the cruise line’s luggage restrictions and your personal preferences for ease of mobility. Consider packing versatile clothing options for various weather conditions and activities during your cruise.

Selecting the right clothing for a European river cruise involves choosing versatile pieces like the Traveler’s Collection from Chico’s, the Columbia Freezer Dress, and J.Jill Wearever Slim-Leg Pants to ensure style and comfort throughout your journey.

When preparing for a river cruise in Europe, it’s essential to pack items that are not only stylish but also practical for the varying activities you may engage in along the way. The Columbia Freezer Dress, for example, offers both sun protection and moisture-wicking properties, making it perfect for excursions under the sun. Pair it with the comfortable yet chic J.Jill Wearever Slim-Leg Pants for a versatile ensemble that transitions seamlessly from day to evening.

In addition, incorporating pieces from the Traveler’s Collection by Chico’s can elevate your wardrobe with its mix-and-match options, ensuring that you can create multiple outfits with just a few key items. Consider bringing lightweight layers for unpredictable weather, such as a stylish cardigan or a versatile scarf to add both warmth and flair to your ensemble.

Footwear plays a crucial role in your comfort and style during a European river cruise, with options ranging from Teva Verra sandals for casual outings to sneakers for walking tours and even a sport coat for formal occasions.

When exploring charming European towns along the riverbanks, sturdy and supportive footwear becomes your best companion. Teva Verra sandals offer a perfect blend of comfort and style, allowing you to wander cobblestone streets with ease. For more active pursuits like exploring ancient ruins or hiking scenic trails, opt for durable sneakers that provide ample cushioning.

Don’t forget the importance of dressing up for special events on board. A pair of comfortable yet formal shoes paired with a sport coat can elevate your look for gala dinners or cocktail evenings, ensuring you’re ready for any occasion.

Accessories

Accessorizing smartly can elevate your look and comfort on a river cruise in Europe, with essentials like scarves , hats , gloves, shoe clips, and packing cubes enhancing both style and convenience.

When setting out on a European river cruise, a lightweight scarf not only adds a touch of elegance to your outfit but also serves as a versatile accessory for layering when the temperature fluctuates along the journey. Hats are not just for style; they shield you from the sun during those leisurely strolls through picturesque towns or while lounging on the deck. Consider practical items like gloves that will keep you warm during chilly evenings on the ship or excursions ashore.

Investing in packing cubes can be a game-changer for staying organized in your cabin. Sorting your clothes and essentials into different cubes makes it effortless to locate items as you move from port to port. Small details like shoe clips can help you add a touch of flair to your footwear, effortlessly transitioning from day to nightwear.

What to Wear During the Day on a River Cruise in Europe?

Dressing appropriately for daytime activities on a river cruise in Europe requires comfortable clothing , sturdy walking shoes , and essential toiletries for a practical and enjoyable experience.

When strolling through the charming cobblestone streets of historic European towns or exploring picturesque vineyards, opt for breathable fabrics such as linen or cotton to keep cool under the sun. Layering is also key for changing weather conditions along the riverbanks, so a light sweater or jacket can come in handy.

Along with your trusty walking shoes, don’t forget a pair of sunglasses to shield your eyes from the glare reflecting off the water, and a wide-brimmed hat for added sun protection. Carrying a small backpack or crossbody bag is convenient for storing your essentials like a refillable water bottle, sunscreen, and a compact umbrella for unexpected showers.

Casual Wear

Casual wear is ideal for daytime adventures on European river cruises, with comfortable and weather-appropriate clothing ensuring a relaxed and enjoyable experience as you explore charming towns and scenic landscapes.

While cruising down picturesque rivers, you’ll want to be prepared for exploring various destinations, from historic cities to quaint villages.

Comfortable footwear is a must for walking cobblestone streets and exploring cultural landmarks. Layering pieces such as lightweight sweaters, jackets, and scarves are versatile for adjusting to changing temperatures throughout the day. Opt for breathable fabrics to stay comfortable under the European sun, and don’t forget a hat and sunglasses to protect yourself during excursions.

Comfortable Shoes

Comfortable shoes, including sturdy walking shoes and weatherproof footwear , are essential for daytime excursions on a European river cruise, providing both style and functionality as you navigate different terrains and participate in on-shore activities.

European river cruises offer a delightful blend of sightseeing and cultural experiences, often involving walks through historic towns, vineyard tours, and visits to charming villages along the picturesque riverbanks.

Proper footwear is crucial for making the most of these excursions, ensuring you stay comfortable and safe throughout your journey. Sturdy walking shoes with good traction are perfect for exploring cobbled streets and uneven paths, while weatherproof options protect your feet from unexpected showers or damp conditions.

Sun Protection

Sun protection is crucial during daytime excursions on European river cruises, with accessories like scarves, hats, and gloves offering both style and shield from the sun’s rays while exploring on-shore attractions and enjoying the scenic river views from the ship.

When embarking on a European river cruise, it’s vital to pack sun protection accessories that not only elevate your style but also provide essential protection against harmful UV rays.

A stylish hat not only adds a fashionable touch to your ensemble but also shields your face, neck, and ears from direct sunlight.

A lightweight scarf can be both a chic accessory and a versatile shield, offering coverage for your shoulders or even converting into a headscarf for added protection.

What to Wear During the Evening on a River Cruise in Europe?

Evening attire on a river cruise in Europe varies from formal nights requiring elegant ensembles like Chico pants to semi-formal and casual nights allowing for more relaxed yet stylish outfits suited for onboard dining and social events.

On formal evenings, guests often opt for classic evening gowns or sophisticated cocktail dresses for women, while men typically don tailored suits or tuxedos. These nights are perfect for bringing out your best accessories and dressing to impress.

Semi-formal nights offer a more flexible approach, with options like dressy skirts or trousers paired with stylish blouses for women and smart casual shirts with dress pants for men.

Casual evenings call for comfortable yet polished looks, such as flowy maxi dresses or linen pants for ladies and slacks with a button-down shirt or polo for gentlemen.

Formal Nights

Formal nights on a river cruise in Europe call for sophisticated attire that matches the elegant ambiance, with formal wear, appropriate for the weather, and essential accessories like toiletries and adapters completing the polished look for special onboard occasions.

When preparing for formal evenings on a European river cruise, it’s crucial to invest in elegant evening gowns or suits that exude class and refinement. Opt for dark, neutral colors for a timeless and sophisticated look that complements the formal setting.

Ensure your attire is weather-appropriate by bringing along a lightweight shawl or jacket to stay warm during cooler evenings on the deck while still looking chic.

Don’t forget to pack a selection of high-quality toiletries for freshening up before the formal events, maintaining that polished appearance throughout the cruise.

Remember to bring adaptors and converters for electronic devices to ensure you stay connected and charged up for capturing memorable moments during the cruise’s special onboard occasions.

Semi-Formal Nights

Semi-formal nights on a river cruise in Europe offer the perfect balance between elegance and comfort, with options like black pants, ballet flats, and scarves creating a stylish yet relaxed ensemble suitable for evening activities such as leisurely walks and guided tours.

When considering attire for such occasions, embracing a sense of sophistication while allowing yourself room to move freely is key. Black pants are a versatile choice that can easily transition from a daytime excursion to a formal dinner gathering with a simple change of top or accessories. Pairing them with comfortable yet stylish ballet flats ensures you can gracefully navigate both cobblestone streets and elegant onboard settings.

Adding a chic scarf not only enhances your outfit with a pop of color or texture but also serves as a functional accessory to combat any evening chill. Opting for lightweight fabrics or versatile neutrals allows you to effortlessly switch up your look without overpacking.

Casual Nights

Casual nights on a river cruise in Europe allow for a relaxed and laid-back approach to dressing, with comfortable spring or summer outfits, adaptable layering options, and a handy raincoat ensuring you are prepared for leisurely evenings onboard or ashore.

When choosing your attire for these evenings, opt for lightweight fabrics such as linen or cotton to stay cool and comfortable as you enjoy the gentle breeze along the water.

Layering is key for unpredictable weather, so consider packing a light sweater or cardigan to add warmth if the temperature drops in the evening.

Pairing your outfit with a stylish scarf can not only elevate your look but also provide that extra warmth or sun protection as needed.

Don’t forget to pack a versatile raincoat that can easily be folded and carried in your bag, ready to shield you from any unexpected showers while you explore charming riverside towns or relax on the deck.

What Not to Wear on a River Cruise in Europe?

When considering your wardrobe for a river cruise in Europe, it’s essential to avoid overpacking with unnecessary items like a sport coat for casual evenings or overly formal dinner attire such as Chico pants that might not align with the cruise’s ambiance.

Instead, focus on versatile pieces that can be mixed and matched to create different outfits without taking up too much space in your luggage. Leave behind heavy winter coats and opt for lightweight layers that can be easily added or removed depending on the weather.

Avoid packing bulky shoes that are uncomfortable for walking tours or exploring quaint European towns. Opt for comfortable yet stylish footwear that can transition effortlessly from day to night without causing any discomfort.

Skip unnecessary accessories like statement jewelry or cumbersome hats that may be impractical for the activities offered on the cruise. Streamline your packing by choosing a few versatile accessories that can elevate your outfits without weighing you down.

Tips for Choosing the Right Clothing for a River Cruise in Europe

Selecting the appropriate clothing for a river cruise in Europe involves considering factors like the weather, toiletries for personal care, and adapters for electronic devices to ensure you are prepared for a comfortable and enjoyable journey.

In terms of dressing for a river cruise, layering your clothing is key, as the weather can vary along the route. Packing versatile pieces that you can mix and match will help you adapt to changing conditions effortlessly. Don’t forget to bring comfortable walking shoes for shore excursions and keep a lightweight jacket or sweater handy for cooler evenings on deck.

For essential toiletries, opt for travel-sized versions to save space in your luggage. Pack items like sunscreen, insect repellent, and any necessary medications to ensure you stay comfortable throughout the trip.

Another crucial item to include in your packing list is an adapter for European outlets . This way, you can charge your devices and stay connected without any hassle. Before setting sail, research the type of outlets used on the cruise ship to ensure you have the right adapter for your electronics.

Consider the Weather

Considering the weather conditions is key when packing for a river cruise in Europe, with items like a raincoat for unexpected showers, comfortable sneakers for walking tours, and weather-appropriate clothing ensuring you are ready for any climate variations.

When embarking on a river cruise through the picturesque European waterways, one must be prepared for the diverse weather patterns that can be experienced along the journey.

Whether you’re cruising down the romantic Rhine River or exploring the historic Danube, the weather can vary from warm and sunny to cool and rainy within the span of a day.

Having a versatile wardrobe that includes layers is essential. This allows you to easily adapt to changing temperatures throughout the day.

Opt for lightweight clothing that dries quickly, in case you get caught in an unexpected downpour while strolling through charming cobblestone streets.

Look at the Dress Code

Checking the cruise’s dress code guidelines is essential for determining appropriate attire, whether it’s elegant formal wear, chic casual outfits, or stylish accessories like black pants , ballet flats , and scarves that complement the onboard ambiance and activities.

For formal evenings on a river cruise, opt for a classic cocktail dress or a tailored suit for a refined look that fits seamlessly with the sophisticated atmosphere. Pair these ensembles with elegant jewelry and dress shoes to elevate your style.

In terms of casual daytime outings, comfortable yet stylish clothing such as tailored trousers, a blouse, and loafers can strike the perfect balance between relaxation and fashion-forwardness.

Add a touch of flair to your outfits with colorful scarves that not only provide warmth on breezy evenings but also inject a pop of personality into your ensemble.
Ballet flats are not only stylish but also practical, ensuring you can comfortably explore the beautiful riverside towns visited during excursions.
Black pants are versatile staples that can be dressed up or down, making them the perfect go-to choice for various cruise activities.

Pack Versatile Pieces

Opting for versatile clothing pieces when packing for a river cruise in Europe ensures flexibility for different activities and occasions, with comfortable options suited for casual attire, European river cruises, walking shoes, and travel-friendly clothing enhancing your overall experience.

When you pack versatile garments, you can effortlessly transition from daytime excursions exploring quaint European villages to elegant dinners on the cruise ship without feeling out of place.

The key is to choose pieces that can be mixed and matched, providing you with multiple outfit options while taking up minimal space in your luggage.

Investing in lightweight, wrinkle-resistant fabrics also means you can stay polished and stylish throughout your journey without worrying about ironing or creases.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I wear on a river cruise in Europe?

It is recommended to pack comfortable and casual clothing for daytime activities, and slightly dressier attire for evening events. Be sure to also bring layers and comfortable walking shoes for shore excursions.

Can I wear shorts on a river cruise in Europe?

While shorts can be worn on board the ship during the day, they may not be appropriate for some shore excursions or evening events. It is best to pack a mix of both shorts and longer pants to have options for different activities.

Is there a dress code for dinner on a river cruise in Europe?

Some river cruise lines may have a dress code for dinner, such as smart casual or semi-formal attire. Check with your specific cruise line for their policy and pack accordingly.

What type of shoes should I bring for a river cruise in Europe?

Bring a comfortable pair of walking shoes for shore excursions and a dressier pair for evening events. It is also recommended to bring a pair of water shoes or sandals for any water-based activities.

What type of clothing is appropriate for visiting churches and religious sites on a river cruise in Europe?

When visiting churches and other religious sites, it is respectful to dress modestly and cover your shoulders and knees. Pack a shawl or scarf to use as a cover-up if needed.

Is there any specific clothing that I should avoid bringing on a river cruise in Europe?

It is recommended to avoid bringing any clothing with offensive or overly revealing designs or slogans, as well as any items that may not be culturally appropriate in the countries you will be visiting.

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What to Wear on a River Cruise in Europe

Packing for a river cruise can be difficult, especially if it’s your first time. For my first European river cruise I found it particularly tricky to decipher the dress code, so I’ve created this guide to help you decide what to wear on a river cruise in Europe .

River Cruise Dress Code

The key thing to know is that t he dress code for river cruises is far more relaxed than ocean cruises. This is the main difference and I found it quite refreshing.

As an example, let’s take a look at the official dress code guidance from AmaWaterways:

Comfortable “Country Club Casual” is the recommended attire for daytime, and to pack something a little dressier for the Captain’s night/Farewell Dinner – similar to how one would dress to dine at a 5-star restaurant. Comfortable shoes are recommended for excursions and workout clothing if you plan to take part in any wellness activities, active tours or use the onboard gym. Depending on the time of year, clothing that can be layered is highly recommended.

What is Country Club Casual?

Country Club Casual is lightweight clothing – think cotton and linen . Men can wear casual open collared shirts, polo shirts and smart t-shirts. Women can wear casual tops, blouses and summer dresses. Colours are more likely to be lighter although this also depends on the weather.

Other river cruise company dress codes:

Avalon Waterways
Emerald Cruises
Tui River Cruises
Viking River Cruises

In general, I found that the dress code for a river cruise in Europe suited the laid back atmosphere. There is no need to pack dinner jackets and evening gowns for a river cruise, which also helps with your luggage allowance.

What to Wear on a River Cruise in Europe – Day Time

During the day, you can wear comfortable clothing. You are likely to see people wearing denim but more likely chinos.

what people wear on a river cruise in europe

Activewear such as sports leggings, t-shirts, sweatshirts and baseball caps are also acceptable for day wear, especially if you are planning to take part in any activities or use the onboard fitness centre.

During the day, smart shorts are acceptable, especially in warm weather during the summer months.

Casual shoes such as loafers, boat shoes or sandals are popular but you will probably see very few people wearing flip flops (unless they are visiting the pool or hot tubs).

Layers are sometimes a good option, especially because Europe is known for its changeable weather. You can remove layers if you get too warm but can easily pop them back on if it becomes chilly.

A lightweight sweater or cardigan will come in handy and for a winter river cruise during colder months, layers and thicker jumpers are essential.

If you’re planning a Christmas Markets river cruise, the conditions may be snowy so hats, gloves, scarves and a warm coat are needed . The last thing you want to do is suffer from the cold during day trips or day excursions.

What to Wear on a River Cruise in Europe – Shore Excursions

River cruising has a heavy focus on the destinations and your cruise itinerary will not have any ‘sea days’ as such. You may even visit two destination in one day so you will be on and off the ship a lot.

Your river cruise will likely offer day excursions included in the cruise fare and you can choose to do an array of things, the most common being walking tours.

There is an element of walking involved in most river cruise excursions and therefore comfortable walking shoes are necessary. Try to avoid wearing new shoes you haven’t worn in. High heels are definitely not recommended, especially in small towns that have cobblestone streets. Ballet flats would also be a good option.

On my Danube river cruise , I wore trainers or comfortable sandals for walking tours, which meant I could walk around and keep cool. I took a small cross-over bag to put the essentials in e.g. phone, purse, sun cream, credit cards and extra memory cards.

Some excursions may visit religious sites or places of worship so it’s important to be mindful of what you wear. You may need to cover your shoulders and knees . A scarf or pashmina for women could be a good option to ensure you are respectful in these circumstances.

For more serious walking excursions, you may want to pack some walking shoes or boots . Some river cruise lines offers active excursions and many river cruise ships have a fleet of bikes. Trainers/tennis shoes are most appropriate for these excursions.

A small backpack is useful for excursions to carry small items such as: a water bottle, insect repellent, sun hat, camera and personal items. You may also wish to pack a lightweight, waterproof coat in case of wet weather.

Most river ships will provide umbrellas so this isn’t something you’ll need to pack.

What to Wear on a River Cruise – Evening

Evenings on a river cruise are spent in the dining room and the ship’s bars and lounges. As a rule, fellow passengers will wear smart casual attire .

At dinner, men generally wear an open collared shirt with perhaps a blazer/sports coat. Ties and bow ties aren’t necessary and there is definitely no need to pack a suit. The type of formal wear you may be familiar with on a ocean cruise is definitely not required.

what to wear on a river cruise in Europe for men in the evening

Formal nights are generally known as gala nights or captain’s dinner nights. During these evenings (typically only once a cruise) men can still wear open-neck shirts. Business casual wear , such as trousers and a shirt, is as formal as it will be.

Women don’t need to wear an evening gown on a river cruise. On most evenings, a casual dress, skirt, top, blouse and trousers are perfectly acceptable evening wear .

On the gala night or farewell dinner, you may chose to wear a cocktail dress but it’s certainly not necessary. Smart trousers with dress shoes are also an option.

Costume jewellery can be subtle, I think above all a ‘less is more’ approach should be taken.

Outfits shouldn’t be too revealing. You can be comfortable in l oose-fitting or relaxed fitting clothes . This is also good news for taking full advantage of the delicious food on river cruises, as your clothes will still fit at the end of your cruise!

Common Questions about What to Wear on a River Cruise in Europe

Is there a laundry on river cruise ships.

Most river cruise ships have an onboard laundry service or small self-service laundries. These can be used at an extra cost. Washing powder/detergent is usually provided.

Do river cruises have hair dryers?

Yes, there’s no need to pack your own hair dryer as river cruise staterooms will have a hair dryer that you can use.

Depending on the cruise line, you may want to pack powers strips as plug sockets may be limited. Not all river ships, especially the older ones, will have USB ports for electrical devices so pack a USB charging plug too.

What size luggage should you take on a river cruise?

You will most likely need to fly to join your river cruise in Europe and so you should check your luggage allowance for the flight.

Typically you will have a large suitcase and a carry-on bag. You should pack important things like medicine and travel documents in your carry-on bag in case your main luggage is lost or delayed at the airport.

River cruise cabins generally have limited storage space and therefore, keep this in mind when packing.

Can you wear jeans on a river cruise?

You can wear jeans on a river cruise but it’s best to avoid wearing any with holes or rips. Smart denim is even fine to wear for the dining room during the evenings.

In the colder months, you will see most people wearing jeans during the day for excursions and around the ship.

What should I pack for a summer river cruise in Europe?

Casual tops
Lightweight jumper/cardigan
Polo shirts for men
Shorts/capri pants/cropped trousers
Summer dresses
Jeans/chinos
Lightweight jacket
Waterproof jacket
knee length skirts or culottes
Activewear for exercising
One dress for gala/farewell dinner
Smart collared shirt for men
Loafers/boat shoes for men
Walking shoes/boots (if required)
Smart trousers
Light scarf/pashmina
Cross-over bag

What should I pack for a winter river cruise in Europe?

Warm jumpers/cardigans/fleeces
Warm jacket
Swimsuit (if there is an indoor spa)
Thick socks
Muff for neck/face
Warm headband to cover ears

Laura is a UK cruise blogger based in Cornwall, UK. She founded Cruise Lifestyle in 2016 to share useful advice about cruising, destinations and food. Last port visited: Bridgetown, Barbados Next port of call: unknown, but she can’t wait for cruising to resume safely!

Find me on: Twitter

How to create a capsule wardrobe for river cruises (with outfit inspiration)

Are you wondering how to create a capsule wardrobe for river cruises? In this guide we round up our favourite river cruise outfits for women whatever time you are visiting.

Important Note : This post may contain affiliate links which means if you click through and make a purchase I will make a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Table of Contents

Why should I pack a capsule wardrobe for river cruises?

Are you wondering why you should pack a capsule wardrobe for a river cruise? Well the truth is whatever type of cruise you are going on from a world cruise to a Caribbean cruise the state rooms are small (unless you are in a suite of course).

However the truth is that the cabins are even smaller on a river cruise than on an ocean going liner. Therefore taking a capsule wardrobe is even more important on a river cruise than any other type of cruise because you have even more limited space.

Now you know why you should pack a capsule wardrobe a river cruise, we turn our attention to to put together a river cruise capsule wardrobe and not overpack . For information on how to pack a minimalist capsule wardrobe check out this post.

How to put together capsule wardrobe river cruise outfits

The keys to putting together any capsule wardrobe is “pack less wear more” as in, pack fewer things but be able to wear them in several styles and outfits.

Therefore for putting together a river cruise capsule wardrobe we recommend

Choosing a color palette and sticking to it as that way more items will go together
Don’t pack anything that you won’t wear at home because you won’t wear it on vacation
Don’t pack anything that doesn’t work in at least two outfits
Don’t pack anything that needs a lot of care i.e. drying cleaning, frequent ironing etc. – don’t forget irons and clothes steamers are on the what not to pack for a cruise list .
Pack breathable fabric if you are traveling on a river cruise in summer – we prefer cottons over linen for the above reason
Layers and some adjustment to the below will be required if you are visiting in the Winter or one of the shoulder seasons.
Using the 5 4 3 2 1 Packing Method

How is a river cruise capsule wardrobe to other types of cruise capsule wardrobes for women

Now you may think all cruise capsule wardrobes are the same and this just isn’t true. What you wear on a Caribbean cruise is very different to what to pack for a cruise to the South Pacific or Iceland for instance.

And a river cruise is very different to other types off cruises because:

the cabins are smaller and therefore you have less space to store clothes and luggage.
river cruises tend to be less formal than ocean going counterparts with very few river cruises having full on formal nights in the dining room.
the ports you are going to tend to be European cities which will involve more walking and more changeable weather.

Note : This river cruise capsule wardrobe packing list is mainly intended for river cruises in Europe which sail along the Rhine and the Danube. If you are going on a river cruise elsewhere in the world be sure to check out our specific packing lists such as what to wear on a Nile River Cruise.

And be sure to check out our specific Christmas Market River Cruise packing guide for Winter river cruises.

What to pack for a river cruise outfit inspiration

T shirts are the top of my list for river cruise capsule wardrobes. They are versatile when picked in a neutral color and go with almost any type of bottom. They can also be dressed up if you want to wear them in the evening and are easily layered if you are traveling in cooler weather.

I would also add one jazzier top that can used be in the main dining if you enjoy dressing up for dinner.

Click here to shop t shirts

Amazon Essentials Women's Long-Sleeve Woven Blouse, Blue Stripe, X-Large

Although you don’t have formal mights per se on a river cruise I still like to change and dress for dinner. My preferred option is to change into a blouse.

A blouse can be dressed up with some jewellery, goes with several types of bottoms and is also great for daytime wear.

They are the perfect thing to wear too if you are planning to visit some religious sites if you pack blouses that are elbow or full sleeve in length.

Click here to shop blouses.

Trousers / shorts / skirts

I would normally pack at least one of each of the above for summer weather cruises so I have all bases covered for Europe’s changeable weather.

If you check the weather app before you travel and see that the weather is going to be hotter or colder than expected I would tweak this list to work for the weather you are going to get.

For shorts I prefer to pack a pair of tailored chino shorts as this are slightly smarter and will work in a wider variety of places.

If you are traveling at a colder time I would also add a pair of jeans into the mix instead of a skirt or shorts.

I love a Maxi dress and all of my capsule wardrobes normally contain at least one that can be used during the day on a sightseeing tour and can be dressed up with jewellery or a pashmina for evenings.

Ciormis Shawl Wraps for Women, Silky Jacquard Paisley Pashmina Scarves for Bridal Formal Dresses（US-Light Blue）

This is always my travel go to. It can dress up daytime outfits for use in the dining room and is great as an extra layer if the weather turns cold or you go somewhere with lots of air conditioning.

Click here to shop great versatile pashminas

Cardigans are a perfect layer for when you are traveling on a river cruise and can be used to dress up an evening outfit. I would usually take at least two – more smarter and one more casual

Boots are great for if you are traveling and going to experience rain and cold on your itinerary. I would pack a pair of water resistance boots as a must for a river cruise. But make sure you do not pack thin heeled boots.

Many of the places you will be visiting on a river cruise will be very old cities that have lots of cobbled streets where thin heels can be a hazard for instance I always put thin heeled boots on my what not to wear in Amsterdam and what not to wear in Paris lists for this reason.

Instead chose thick heel boots, flatter boots or wedges.

If you are traveling in summer or are expected to have great weather during your river cruise I would leave the boots at home and instead opt for a pair of sandals that can be both used for walking around cities and can be used at dinner.

If you plan to walk in sandals at all it is really important to get a pair with a good sole and plenty of arch support so your feet don’t kill you after the end of a long day sightseeing.

Our preference is for a pair of Hotter or Clarks sandals with arch support and a bit of sparkle.

Click here to shop sandals with arch support

As a river cruise port will likely entail lots of walking around cities, botanic gardens and markets I recommend packing a really comfy pair of sneakers.

Some of our favourite brands of sneakers for cruises are sketchers Go Walks, All Birds and Hotters.

Click here to shop sneakers for river cruises.

Pack Away rain jacket

ZHENWEI Raincoat,Women's Lightweight Waterproof with Hood Rain Jacket Outdoor(Black,M)

Whenever you travel to Europe there is a chance you will experience a rainy day on your trip. But don’t let rain spoil your trip. Pack a packaway lightweight rain jacket that doesn’t take up much space just in case you get rain on your trip.

If you are going to experience cold weather on your trip you will also want a thicker jacket with you.

Click here to shop packaway rain jackets.

For each day of the cruise and for the duration of your vacation pre and post cruise.

Ok, swimwear is the only thing on the list that really can’t be used as part of another outfit. But it is definitely necessary as river cruises like their ocean going counter parts will usually, though not always have a pool – check your vessel amenities to be sure before packing.

And those that don’t have pools may have hot tubs and jacuzzis that you might want to use.

For a full list of what toiletries to pack for a cruise check out this post.

Thanks again to our resident cruise expert Tricia for her advice and tips in creating this river cruise capsule wardrobe.

Have you been on a river cruise? What did you find you used lots or not at all? we’d love to hear your experiences in the comments.

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What to Pack for a Europe River Cruise in Any Season

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You’ve planned your Europe river cruise, but you’re not sure of how and what to pack. Maybe you’re wondering about the weather for a Christmas Markets river cruise, formal nights or simply the best way to pack. What electronics and accessories should you pack?

How to Pack for a Europe River Cruise

Whether you’re going for 10 days or one month, pack as though you’ll only be gone for a week. There’s always someplace to do laundry, even if it means paying $25 for a bag of laundry and have the ship do it.

After all, you’ve spent at least $4,000 per person for this cruise…what’s another $25 when you consider the advantages.

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Should you pack an umbrella? All river ships have umbrellas for their guests to use in port. Keep in mind, these are not tiny umbrellas and can be cumbersome. Perhaps pack your own collapsible umbrella just in case you’re staying in Europe before or after your cruise.

Depending upon your river ship, cabins may be a bit smaller than a typical ocean cruise ship stateroom. There’ll be ample room under the beds to stash your unpacked bags, but countertop and closet space as well as bathroom vanity space can be limited. Consider an over-the-door hanging shoe rack. Great for stowing bits of loose items in each shoe compartment and folds flat when it’s time to re-pack.

What Luggage Should I Use?

If you’re still dragging a two-wheeled suitcase behind you, it’s time to upgrade your luggage to a four-wheeled spinner suitcase. It’s like a suitcase with power steering.

You don’t have to spend a fortune for an American-made Tumi or German-engineered Rimowa set of luggage. Inexpensive French-made Delsey has some of the most lightweight luggage anywhere, is exceptionally roomy and offered in a variety of colors and models.

Luggage that weighs around 10lbs. or less, like Delsey, is ideal. If the bag or online description doesn’t state the weight, you can always find it online at the luggage brand’s website.

I always travel with my 19″ small carry-on with easy front access to my laptop.

DELSEY Paris Titanium Hardside Expandable Luggage with Spinner Wheels, Graphite, Carry-On 19 Inch

Now that you know the type of luggage and packing cubes to get, focus to keep the contents as lightweight as possible. Airline requirements aside, it’s never any fun to begin your vacation with a wrenched shoulder or stiff neck.

What Type of Clothes Will I Need?

It all depends on the time of year for your river cruise. That sounds obvious, but there can be challenges, especially if you plan to travel a bit before or after your cruise. If you’re taking a Tulip Time river cruise from Amsterdam, it can be chilly in early spring. A summer departure from Budapest can be very warm.

A Grand European river cruise from Budapest to Amsterdam (or reverse) takes you through several countries, all of which could have their own weather-related issues.

SPRING OR FALL RIVER CRUISE IN EUROPE

The weather on a spring or fall Europe river cruise can be unpredictable. Early spring can bring chilly winds that rush down the river or bright blue cloudless skies to make a walk on the sun deck totally enjoyable. Fall cruises can be chilly and drizzly or totally gorgeous autumn days. You just never know. So it’s important be able to dress in layers no matter what the season.

CHRISTMAS MARKETS RIVER CRUISE

These cruises deserve their own how-to dress information. River cruises on the Rhine from late November and onward can be quite chilly if not altogether cold. Gray days can prevail, but sunny days are not out of the question.

Be prepared with hats, warm scarves, gloves and a lightweight coat made for colder weather. To use my iPhone and still keep my hands frost-free, I have these exact Isotoner gloves. They’re designed for use with touchscreens.

isotoner Womens Spandex Recycled Touchscreen Cold Weather Gloves with Warm Fleece Lining and Chevron Details , Black Solid - Smartdri, Large / X-Large US

Some devout spring and fall river cruisers bring silk undergarments and then layer with thin clothing like cotton tops for women and long-sleeve pullovers for men. A flannel-lined water-repellent windbreaker or lightweight parka (that you wear from home) plus hat and gloves are a good idea, too. Even for spring and fall, bring one warm scarf to tuck inside your jacket. Add a few dressier, thin scarves too, for a quick way to change an outfit.

CASUAL OR DRESSY

Keep it simple. Unlike on an ocean cruise, there are no formal nights on a river cruise. The dressiest it gets is the Captain’s Farewell Dinner on the last night. Men sometimes wear a sport coat over a collared shirt or turtleneck T. Some women opt for a sparkly top and a nice pair of pants…but that’s about it. During the day, it’s all about comfort.

Blend in. Keep your white sneakers, USA-emblazoned baseball caps and neon clothing at home. While extremely stylish, Europeans dress mostly in dark colors year round. It’s quite common to see both men and women wearing a beautifully-colored scarf to add a bit of punch to a drab outfit.

Build your cruise wardrobe around one central color scheme, whether brown, black or charcoal. Pieces that you can mix and match will make your life so much easier. Seriously, no one will notice if you wear the same outfit twice.

Shoes to Pack for a River Cruise

All European river cruise require some amount of walking, much of which is on cobblestones. Ancient ruins aren’t equipped with elevators. Don’t bring your new pair of walking shoes unless you’ve spent time at home breaking them in for your trip.

Women can leave their high heels at home too. Generally, three pairs of shoes works fine. One pair of walking shoes – preferable not white, dressy low-heeled shoes in black, and a pair of black or dark colored flats.

Almost every river cruise line gives passengers slippers to wear so you can leave yours at home.

Will My Valuables Be Safe?

Except for wedding rings or something that doesn’t scream “steal me”, leave the good stuff at home. ALWAYS keep your carry-on bag with you. If a crew member or someone at the pier offers to help you up the gangway, tag right along side of them. Don’t let your carry-on out of your sight.

After all, your carry-on bag has your meds, vitamins, travel documents, makeup etc. Your passport should either be on you in a hidden pouch or in a deep zippered compartment in your zippered cross-body bag that’s worn in front of you.

Electronic Devices and Accessories

Newer river ships have multiple electric outlets in both 220 and 110 voltage. USB outlets can be found on the desk as well as bedside on the newest of river ships.

All in One Universal USB Travel Power Adapter with 3 USB Port and Type-C International Wall Charger Worldwide AC Power Plug 8 Pin AC Socket for Multi-Nation Travel UK, EU, AU, Asia

It doesn’t convert your hair dryer to 110 voltage, but your river cruise line or hotel will provide hair dryers.

A nice perk on all river cruises is free wifi. So yes, you can bring your iPhone, iPad and MacBook and it’ll almost feel like home.

Be sure to buy an extra camera battery or regular batteries. Also, extra SD cards for your camera. Don’t take a chance of losing all your photos with a non-brand name SD card.

Recap of How and What to Pack

Now you should have a good idea of how and what to pack for a European river cruise. To recap:

Get lightweight, four-wheel spinner luggage.
Leave valuable jewelry at home.
Pack only enough clothes for one week.
Dress like a European – dark colors to mix and match with pretty scarves.
Bring already-broken-in walking shoes.
Electric adapters, devices and cameras
Know and practice how to use your new camera or Kindle
Keep your carry-on bag with you at all times during travel connections.

Back to River Cruise FAQs

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Hi Shari, Thank you so much for reading my packing article and sending your comment. I don’t know your itinerary, but here’s a link to my Christmas Markets river cruise, different cruise line but you may very likely visit some of the same towns so I hope this info will be helpful. Have a terrific time! I’m jealous! Thank you again. https://cruisemaven.com/christmas-markets-river-cruise-with-amawaterways/

Thank you for a very informative reading. We are doing our 1st river cruise ever after over 32 cruises on main line ships. This is a bucket list for me on Viking Christmas tours. Looking forward to December, 2022.

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Updated on August 22, 2024 by Rebecca Low

What I Packed For a European WINTER River Cruise (Essentials, Clothes and More)

This post may contain affiliate links, which means that I may earn a commission if you make a purchase at no additional cost to you.

Heading off on a winter river cruise? How exciting! I’ve just got back from a river cruise in Germany.

To make sure you have everything you need (and nothing you don’t.) Here is a streamlined guide to packing for your winter adventure .

Emma Cruises at the Christmas Markets in Cologne

My Christmas cruise T-shirt is from here.

Quick Climate Check

Expect chilly days and colder nights. Temperatures can dip below freezing, so pack clothes to help keep you warm. It’s always best to expect rain too, either a drizzle or a downpour!

Clothing Essentials

Long or short-sleeved, whichever you prefer. I bought 1 for every day of the cruise.

One or two good-quality, waterproof coats. Waterproof is the key word here!
4-5 pairs of Trousers/Pants or jeans – balance warmth with comfort.
2 or 3 outfits for any special dinners. River cruises are usually relaxed, but it’s nice to dress up occasionally.

A couple of sets for a cosy, good night’s sleep. On most river cruises your room will be cleaned once per day, if you put ‘do not disturb’ on the door they won’t come in, but it’s easy to forget and always best to have some pyjamas to wear when in the room.
Enough for a week – with extra socks in case they get wet.

Atrium on Tui Skyla river cruise, decorated for Christmas.

Waterproof and comfortable for market wanders. The streets will be cobbled so grip is important!
Casual shoes for on the ship. I bought just two pairs of shoes and it was perfect. Indoor shoes and outdoor shoes!

If you are concerned about slipping on the snow and Ice when walking around Christmas markets, you can buy handy “traction cleats” that easily slip over your own shoes/boots.

They are very easy to put on and take off, and give you added peace of mind that you won’t have a nasty accident when you are on your cruise. Nobody wants to worry about that…

Find the ones I use here:

Yaktrax Walk Traction Cleats for Walking on Snow and Ice (1 Pair), Medium

Accessories

Hat, gloves, scarf – don’t leave the ship without them!
Stay dry during those winter showers. If you are sailing on a premium river cruise ship, you may find that they supply umbrellas – so it is worth checking. That will then be one less thing for you to pack…
One of my favourite things about river cruising is that you can just head to a shop if you feel like it and you can fill your bag with snacks or drinks. There no security to go through on river ships.

The brand of bags I’ve used for the last 7 or so years, and the one you’ll see in every post is Mia Tui.

I bought my first Mia Tui bag in 2017 and I've not used another brand since. They come with me on every cruise and are FANTASTIC. They are beautiful, almost indestructible and have so many pockets and useful parts.

Practical Bits

Handy for public restrooms. Lots of the public toilets in Europe charge 50 cents or a euro.
Pack a few small favourites for when you’re peckish or for if the dining area is closed. There isn’t a lot of food on river ships between meal times.
Capture every Christmas light! Extra batteries are a must in the cold because they run down quickly.

Tech and Entertainment

For all your gadgets. I usually bring a portable charger too.
For those cosy, quiet moments onboard. On some river cruises there can be a lot of time to relax, so make sure you have things to fill your time.
If you do have to work while onboard, bring your laptop. Most river cruises have free WiFi and if you have internet included in your phone plan you may be able to hot spot off your phone. This means you use your phones internet on the laptop and it doesn’t cost you any extra.

Health and Personal Items

Essentials for just in case. If you are in doubt about if you need something medication-wise, bring it. You’ll never regret it!
Include moisturisers to combat the dry winter air.
Passport, insurance, credit cards, and some local currency.

For a full list of suggested first-aid items and medications to bring along, read the article below:

Staying Healthy When You Cruise, Avoiding Seasickness – Medications and First Aid Items to Pack

Packing Smart

Compression bags or packing cubes will help you fit more into your case, and make unpacking once you arrive easier.
Coordinated clothing means more outfits with fewer items to pack.
If there is a laundry available it’s good to know about it. You can wash a few items if necessary and it might stop you from packing all those “just in case” things that you will probably never need.
I like to wash a few small items in the sink and dry them in the bathroom. I usually use a travel wash like the below:

Watch me test out the best packing cubes on the market in the video below. I would never consider travelling without using mine…

Spoiler alert, the winning brand was Mia Tui. Use code ‘EMMACRUISES’ for 15% off!

Don’t Worry!

If you need to buy an extra hat or some other forgotten item, it is easy to do!

Don’t worry that you have forgotten anything essential. The beauty of river cruising is that you will be docked in the centre of towns and cities , and you can easily pop to the shops.

Essentials For Any Cruise

There are certain things you must pack on any cruise holiday. Make sure you have your:

Credit Cards
Travel Insurance details

Before You Go

Find out about things you might want to organise before your ocean or river cruise here:

Planning And Packing For Your Cruise, Things to Organise in Advance, Packing Essentials And More

Make sure you haven’t forgotten any essential paperwork with my comprehensive list in the article below:

Cruise Paperwork! Make Sure You Don’t Forget Essential Paperwork, or You Won’t Be Sailing Anywhere…

Free Insiders Cruise Line Guide

Ever wondered how the mainstream cruise lines compare? Cruise lines won’t tell you this, but I will.

This FREE guide shows you everything you need to know to find your perfect cruise line.

Whenever I take a cruise I order a print of my trip. It uses the real satellite data from the cruise and is always a great conversation starter!

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What to Wear on a European River Cruise

Post author: Linda
Post published: February 20, 2020
Post category: Travel Blog / Viking / Tips

Maybe you have just booked your first European river cruise and are looking forward to traveling down the beautiful Rhine or Danube. Undoubtedly you are excited at all the sites you will see. But are you confused about what to wear? You have also probably heard that river cruises tend to be much more casual than the typical ocean cruise. So, how casual is ‘casual’ and what should you pack?

We hope that this post will help you have a complete understanding of the types of clothing you need to pack so that you are not just comfortable, but also confident that your clothing will be completely appropriate for every activity.

Dressing for Each Activity

Let’s take a look at the kinds of activities that you will likely participate in as part of your cruise. There are daily site seeing excursions, cocktail hour, dinner, special evening events both aboard the ship and onshore, some active pursuits such as biking, hiking, canoeing or even workouts and swimming onboard your ship.

• Daily Wear Onboard the Ship – Outside of the dining room during meals and the lounge areas in the evening, you can feel free moving about the ship in just about anything. It is not uncommon to see a few folks in their pajamas grabbing a cup of coffee to take back to their stateroom early in the morning. Although I would not recommend staying in your PJ’s all day, typical lounge wear like yoga pants, shorts, etc. are just fine for hanging out during the day.

A lot of the river ships do not even have fitness centers or swimming pools. However, if your ship does and you wish to participate, then it’s very easy to dress for these activities. Pretty much anything you would ordinarily wear to the gym or to a resort pool will be just fine for your cruise.

• Active Pursuits – If you are participating in some outdoor activities like hiking or biking, you are going to want to dress in clothes that work for your level of physical activity and the weather. Technical clothes such as hiking pants or shorts, shirts, shoes or biking shorts are appropriate for any of these types of activities.

• Daily Site Seeing Excursions – First, regardless of the time of year, dressing in layers is always recommended. Obviously in cool temperatures, you will want to bring along a layer or two so that you can adjust to changing weather conditions. Even in warmer times of the year, you will want to be sure to have a layer to protect you from rain or the cooler temperatures inside of air-conditioned buildings. (Although frankly, we’ve rarely encountered super cold air conditioning anywhere in Europe.)

It’s kind of humorous, but if you research what to wear in Europe, you will read articles that tell you that you should dress like Europeans so that you do not stand out as a tourist. I have news for you, unless you are really experienced with the nuances of the local dress, you are going to look like a tourist. You will also hear that Europeans don’t wear jeans or shorts or sneakers, and that is simply not true anymore.

That said, you should not consider all of Europe as one monolithic culture. For example, eastern Europe tends to be a bit more conservative than western Europe, and southern Europe tends to be more relaxed than northern areas. Overall though, Europeans tend to be a bit more put together, even when dressed casually. So, what does this all mean for your day wear while you are on the cruise? Basically, it means you should dress casually and comfortably, but not sloppily.

Women can wear pants, jeans, casual dresses and skirts just about anywhere. I have noticed that although more European women are wearing shorts these days, they are typically the younger set. Older women still tend to wear slacks or capris. However, if the weather is warm and you want to wear tasteful shorts, there will very likely be other women on your excursions who opt to wear them too. Simple tops, including sleeveless ones are generally fine as long as they are not too revealing. Just keep in mind that there are some churches and holy sites that require knees and shoulders to be covered. So be sure you understand your itinerary for the day, so that your shorts or shirts do not present a problem for entry into these sites.

For both men and women, your footwear needs to be comfortable since you will be doing a fair amount of walking. In summer, sandals, sneakers and walking shoes are all appropriate anywhere you will be touring. In cooler weather, comfortable boots or booties can be added to the list.

Don’t forget to bring along a hat and sunglasses. While Europeans have not fully embraced the baseball hat, you do see a few. A lot of folks on your tour will be wearing them, so you will definitely not feel out of place.

For women, I recommend carrying an anti-theft purse while you are out and about touring. Although crime is not a huge issue in most places, there are always some opportunists that are looking to take advantage of the tourist crowd. So play it safe and leave expensive purses on the ship – or even at home.

Tip: Be sure you carefully review and understand all the details of your itinerary and excursions before you leave home. That way you will be sure you are packing the right clothes for all of the activities in which you will be participating.

• Cocktails, Dinner and Onboard Evening Activities – During breakfast and lunch, most everyone is dressed pretty casually. Usually you are having these meals either right before or right after your daily excursion, so most folks are dressed in their daily excursion wear. On most days you will have sufficient time after returning from your excursion to shower and change before cocktails and dinner, and most folks make an effort to dress up, even if just a bit.

For gentlemen, dress slacks, khakis or chinos, paired with a collared shirt (including polo shirts) are all acceptable. Shorts and blue jeans are generally not part of the dress code. I have to say though, I have seen a few men wearing jeans at dinner and nothing was said. But jeans are in opposition to most dress codes, so I would recommend not even trying.

Although a few river cruise lines will ask gentlemen to wear a jacket for special events such as a Captain’s Dinner, in most cases you can leave the sports coats, suits and ties at home.

You may be tempted to bring along some of your nicer jewelry for dressing up your outfits, but frankly most women do not bring many, if any, expensive pieces. However, there are typically safes in each stateroom, if you really want to bring some nice pieces.

In addition, a lot of women do not carry purses to dinner. Considering that river cruise ships are relatively small, you are never very far from your stateroom, so you can easily walk back to your stateroom if you need something.

UPDATE (August, 2022): Having just completed a European river cruise last month, there has been a notable change in the habits of travelers. It seems like most everything is much more casual now, most notably during the dinner service. While there has not been a change in the documented dress code, on our cruise jeans and shorts now seemed to be acceptable for both men and women during dinner on the ship. So, you may want to keep that in mind if you are packing for an upcoming cruise.

Now that you know what is ‘acceptable’ dress, understand that there will be some people who really want to get dressed up in jackets and cocktail dresses. They enjoy dressing up and are more comfortable dressed that way. However, the vast majority of folks will be dressed nicely, but casually.

TIP: You may think that you have to have unique outfits for every day and evening. Consider creating a capsule wardrobe, so that you can mix and match pieces and reduce the overall amount of clothes you need to pack. For more tips on packing light , check out our blog post on this topic.

• Onshore Evening Activities – One possible exception to the casual nature of the river cruise could be some optional onshore activities such as a formal concert or a ballet performance. Certain performances may require suits and dresses. So, if you are participating in any of these activities, you may want to ask for some guidance from your cruise line regarding appropriate clothing.

Final Thoughts

Let me just conclude by saying that everyone has a different idea about what is appropriate. You may feel differently about the types of clothing suggested in this post – and that is fine. Other than the dress code guidelines that are particular to each cruise line, there are no rules. If you are happy with your choices – then go for it!

This Post Has 10 Comments

We went on the Rhine River Cruise with Vikings and all we needed were comfortable casual clothing.

Thanks for the comment. We have been on three Viking River Cruises and have found them to be a little more casual than some of the other cruise lines. There is no real ‘formal’ nights on Viking River.

We have been on 8 Viking river trips. On one of our earlier trips men wore jackets and neckties to the final dinner and women were wearing long skirts or dress trousers. However, on all of our later trips this was not the case. Everyone was primarily dressed as they were during the daytime. No jackets to be seen..at all. Women wearing mostly trousers and nice shirts.

Thank you for the comment. We have noticed it has been slightly more casual each trip we have been on.

We have been on three Viking cruises and my husband has found black jeans and regular jeans appropriate for dinner.

Thank you for the comment. We have seen the same thing on Viking, but some other river cruise lines are a little more strict.

We went on a Viking cruise and our luggage did not arrive for two days. So for the Captains dinner and a concert in Vienna, we wore jeans. We felt under dressed, but no one said anything. Nice causal was the norm for dinner.

I know how you feel. We were on the Grand European cruise with Viking and my luggage never showed up. I wore hiking pants the first few days until we went to the store and I got some new clothes. Just like you, no one said anything but I felt a little casual at dinner.

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15 Awesome Fashion Tips For A Riverboat Dinner Cruise

If you are going to attend a riverboat dinner cruise and don't know what to wear, you are in the right place! Generally, a riverboat dinner cruise has a casual to semi-formal dress code.

In this article, you will discover some amazing outfit recommendations that can help you increase your confidence and look fantastic. Keep reading to discover our tips!

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Riverboat dinner cruise outfits dress code

The first and most important step that can help you nail the right outfit is to check the dress code. Most riverboats accept outfits from casual to semi-formal and allow the participants to wear what's best for them. You should also pay attention to the type of events you are going to attend. For example, it may be a romantic dinner or a dinner with your work colleagues. Next, consider the time of the day. For instance, daytime cruises may be more casual, while evening cruises might require formal attire. Last but not least, it is very important to have the weather conditions in mind. Dressing appropriately for the weather is very important in order to have a good time.

Riverboat dinner cruise outfits slip dress

Slip dresses are versatile pieces that can work both for a casual daytime cruise and a semi-formal evening cruise.

During the day, pair your slip dress with flat sandals and a wide-brimmed hat for a chic, sun-safe look. However, for the evening, switch the sandals for strappy heels and add some sparkling jewelry.

Complete your outfit with a blazer for an extra layer of protection.

Check out the best affordable and sustainable slip dresses.

Romantic blouse

For a feminine and sophisticated outfit, do not hesitate to choose a beautiful blouse featuring romantic fashion style elements such as embellishments, cute collars, floral prints, or puff sleeves.

Here is our selection of affordable and sustainable blouses.

Riverboat dinner cruise outfits maxi dress

Maxi dresses are stylish, elegant, breathable, and comfortable. They are available in a wide variety of colors and designs, and you will easily find a flattering one that you love.

For more fashion inspiration, take a look at the 20 best cute and cheap summer dresses.

Cocktail dress

When attending a riverboat dinner cruise, a cocktail dress often hits the sweet spot. Not too formal, yet sophisticated enough for such an occasion, it also offers great versatility.

Accessories can elevate your cocktail dress. Opt for statement pieces if your dress is simple. If your dress is already embellished, choose subtle accessories.

Browse through the best sustainable cocktail dresses for any party.

Casual outfit

Riverboat dinner cruise outfits casual style

If we are talking about a casual event, pair a white shirt with a cute skirt for a relaxed yet stylish outfit.

You don't need expensive or very sophisticated clothes to look fabulous. Just make sure you choose items in the right size for your body because anything too big or too small might not be flattering.

Go for high-quality materials that are beautiful and durable.

Take a peek at our selection of sustainable shirts.

For a formal riverboat dinner cruise, a gown could be your go-to choice. It exudes elegance and sophistication, and it will make you feel like a princess.

If you don't want to spend a large amount of money on an expensive gown that you will only wear on a few special occasions, we've got you covered!

We have compiled a list of the best places to rent prom dresses and gowns. Check it out here.

Blazers can instantly make any outfit more elegant. If you purchase a high-quality blazer in a neutral color that's easy to match with anything, you will be able to enjoy it on many occasions.

A blazer can elevate your riverboat dinner cruise outfit no matter if you choose something formal or casual.

Choose a stylish blazer from our sustainable recommendations.

For a formal riverboat dinner cruise, men can choose a suit.

Suits are the epitome of elegance and you can never go wrong with them when it comes to special events.

Create a classy outfit that will not go unnoticed with one of these 20 best affordable and sustainable suits.

Riverboat dinner cruise outfits footwear

Choosing the right shoes doesn't have to be a difficult task.

First and foremost, make sure to opt for a comfortable design made from cruelty-free, durable, and high-quality materials.

Match your shoes to your outfit: For a formal event you will need elegant shoes, while for a casual dinner, you can choose ballet flats.

Have a look at the 30 best vegan shoe companies.

Trench coat

Timeless, fashionable, and extremely versatile, trench coats can help you complete any riverboat dinner cruise outfit.

Trench coats are staple clothing items that offer a timeless appeal.

Enhance your style with one of these lightweight and elegant trench coats.

Accessorize your outfit with a chic beret. A beret can always top off any simple look and it is a very creative way to accessorize.

Check out these eight best sustainable clothing brands from Paris.

Color palette

You may be wondering what the best colors to wear to a riverboat dinner party are.

Our recommendation is to go for a conservative color palette.

Even if you choose to wear one bright color, make sure your outfit doesn't feature too many colors and prints. This is the best way to stay classy and elegant.

Accessorizing your outfit is very important. Jewelry allows you to express your personality and preferences.

Thankfully, you can now accessorize with a clean conscience: Here are the 10 best ethical jewelry brands using recycled materials.

It's time to talk about the things you shouldn't wear when attending a riverboat dinner cruise.

Stay away from anything that is too revealing, such as very short dresses and skirts and very tight clothes. Don't wear jeans. We all love them because they are very comfortable, but they are inappropriate for this occasion. Avoid anything that's uncomfortable and over the top. Certain designs look amazing but are extremely uncomfortable for the wearer. If you want to feel beautiful and confident, you need to wear something elegant that doesn't sacrifice comfort.

If you like this article, share it with your friends!

Was this article helpful to you? Please tell us what you liked or didn't like in the comments below.

About the Author: Miruna Dulcea

Miruna Dulcea has a science degree in Physics. She enjoys learning foreign languages and has so far lived and worked in four countries across Europe. Apart from her interest in science, she has a passion for fragrance and loves animals and art in all forms. - "Writing is a binder that breaks physical, temporal, and cultural boundaries and connects people everywhere, and that is the powerful fuel that motivates me to express myself with this form of communication. It is about both learning and sharing."

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Men’s Capsule Wardrobe for a River Cruise Vacation

Things to Consider

Your clothing choices will depend on your ports of call and the likely weather conditions.
For cruising in hotter climes opt for shorts and short-sleeved shirts in light natural fabrics.
In cooler destinations you'll prefer trousers, long-sleeved shirts and jackets in thicker weights.
Clever layering is the best way to cope with changeable weather conditions – e.g. wear a jacket over a fleece, over a t-shirt.
Consider the activities you plan to do off ship – there may be lots of included excursions. Will you need particular clothing or footwear?
Check the evening dress codes. River cruises tend not to have formally enforced codes, but there may be opportunities both on and off ship to dress up if you choose, e.g. a Captain's Gala Dinner or night out at a concert.
The amount of food you can eat on a cruise is all part of the appeal; we recommend you pack clothes with comfortable waistbands!
Pick a simple colour scheme of neutrals plus one or two statement shades if you like. Make sure all your clothes co-ordinate so they can be mixed and matched.
Remember you will need an outfit to travel in! Wear your bulkiest clothes and shoes where possible.
Download our complete packing list below for all quantities and a checklist of items.
Also see our River Cruise Capsule Wardrobe for Women

What to pack for a River Cruise

Casual Trousers or Shorts

These should be practical for days out. Consider the type of activities you will do – are they city-based or more rural/active? Choose fabrics that dry quickly in case of rain. Styles with detachable legs are a good option for varied temperatures. You might opt for shorts in hotter climes, but trousers are good protection against sun and insects.

Suggested buy : Columbia Silver Ridge Convertible Pant by Amazon

Smart-Casual Trousers

Choose a pair that are comfy for day wear (team with a t-shirt and walking shoes) but can also be worn to dinner with smart shoes and a shirt. Smart dark jeans would work well, or try a lighter Chino style in warmer weather.

Suggested buy : AG 'Protégé' Straight Leg Twill Pants by Nordstrom

Tailored Shorts

For warmer weather add in another pair of shorts. Make them tailored as an option for casual evening wear where permitted.

Suggested buy : RVCA Flat Front Twill Shorts by Nordstrom

Casual Tops

Pack simple tops in your favourite colours that will match your trousers and shorts. Collared t-shirts or shirts can be worn for casual evenings, then wear by day for sightseeing. Depending on the climate choose from long or short-sleeved, or a mixture.

Suggested buy : Fruit of the Loom Cotton Polo Shirt by Amazon

Smart Shirts

Choose smart shirts that can be dressed down with jeans or up with trousers. Short sleeved are fine in warmer weather. Include one that will go with your jacket, if applicable (see below).

Suggested buy : Russell Long Sleeve Fitted Shirt by Amazon

Fleece or Light Sweater

Even in hot weather the breezes can make it feel cool when sailing, whilst inside the air-con can also be chilly. A fleece is light, cosy and packs well – or opt for a smart sweater if that's more your style.

Suggested buy : The North Face Glacier 1/4 Zip Fleece by Amazon

Whilst river cruises don't usually have ‘formal nights' there may be opportunities to dress smartly if you wish, such as a gala dinner or night out at a concert or the opera. A jacket can be teamed with your smart-casual trousers on such occasions. Don't forget your tie and cufflinks if that's your style.

We love : Trim Fit Graph Print Blazer by Nordstrom

Walking Shoes or Trainers

If you plan to do lots of walking on shore you'll need some active shoes. Closed-toe are best on dusty roads, and if you're heading off the beaten track do make sure you have something sturdy and supportive that are suited to the terrain.

Check out : Logan Sneakers by Hotter

Take some smart non-slip comfy flats for daytime on deck, easy exploring off ship, and evening wear.

We love these : Marine Deck Shoes by Hotter

Essential for sun protection in hot weather or to keep out the cold and wet in cooler regions. It can be breezy on board, so choose a style that stays on securely – our Breezy Sun Hat features a chin strap, so it's great for outdoor pursuits.

Try this : Dorfman Pacific Men's Safari Hat on Amazon

It's extremely bright when the sun's out as the rays reflect off the water. If you want to admire the views then sunglasses are essential.

We like : Ray-Ban Original Wayfarer by Amazon

Good sunscreen is essential in hotter climes, and don't get caught out on cloudy days either – you can still get burnt. Remember that water will reflect the sun's rays too. Choose a product with a high SPF (protects from UVB rays) and also look for the star or PA rating which indicates protection from UVA.

Try this : SPF 30 PA+++ Water Resistant Sunscreen by Murad

Packaway Jacket

A light packaway raincoat is a good idea to carry with you on day trips – it's ideal in case the weather changes quickly or you experience a sudden downpour. You can layer up underneath for warmth if necessary, or opt for a more substantial jacket in cooler climes.

We love : Result Waterproof Jacket by Amazon

Essential for lazy days of sun-bathing.

Suggested buy : Sandbar Swim Trunks by MaddaFella

You'll need a lightweight bag for all your sightseeing essentials. Our packaway day sack folds up into itself and fits easily in your suitcase when not in use. It's surprisingly roomy, showerproof and light to carry – even in hot weather.

Buy from us : Fold Away Day Sack on Amazon

Washington Dc: Mt. Vernon Day Trip With River Cruise

Set out on a captivating journey from the bustling city of Washington, DC, to the historic grounds of Mount Vernon. This immersive day trip promises to whisk you away on a scenic river cruise along the serene Potomac, setting the stage for a deeper exploration of the life and legacy of George Washington. With VIP seating, guided tours, and insights into the lives of the enslaved individuals who lived on the estate, this small group experience offers a unique opportunity to step back in time and uncover the multifaceted history that shaped the nation’s first president. As you stroll through the meticulously preserved mansion and gardens, prepare to be captivated by the remarkable stories that await.

The day trip to Mount Vernon from Washington, DC includes a scenic 1.5-hour cruise down the Potomac River with VIP seating privileges.
The guided exploration of the Mount Vernon estate features visits to the mansion, private study, and final resting place of George Washington.
The tour provides insights into the lives of enslaved persons who lived and worked on the estate, enhancing the historical understanding.
Lunch is included at the on-site cafeteria, with locally-sourced dishes, though options may be limited for vegans.
The small group size of 15 participants or fewer ensures a personalized experience, with highly knowledgeable and engaging tour guides.

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Tour Overview and Pricing

The day trip to Mount Vernon is likely to sell out quickly, given its popularity. Priced at €125.66 per person, the 7-hour experience offers VIP privileges with prime seating on the boat and an expert-led tour of George Washington’s estate.

The small group is limited to 15 participants, ensuring a more personalized experience. Guests can take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and the Reserve Now & Pay Later option is available.

With a scenic cruise down the Potomac River and a guided exploration of the historic estate, this day trip promises an engaging and immersive experience.

Experience Highlights

This day trip offers a captivating array of experience highlights.

Guests will embark on a scenic cruise down the Potomac River, enjoying VIP privileges with prime seating on the boat.

They’ll then explore the iconic George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate, led by an expert guide who’ll provide insights into the lives of enslaved persons at the site.

Lunch is included at the estate’s cafeteria, offering a chance to refuel before continuing the tour.

From the private study to the final resting place, the experience promises an immersive look into the history and grandeur of this celebrated American landmark.

Detailed Itinerary

Participants meet their guide at Pier 4 Spirit of Mt Vernon, located at 580 Water St SW, Washington, DC 20024.

They embark on a relaxing 1.5-hour cruise down the Potomac River to George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate .

Upon arrival, the group explores the estate’s farm, mansion, blacksmith’s shop, overseers’ quarters, and greenhouse. Guests have the opportunity to view Washington’s private study and his final resting place.

After the guided tour , the group boards the ferry for the return trip back to Washington, DC, concluding this immersive historical experience.

Important Information

Not all aspects of the day trip to Mount Vernon are suitable for vegans, as lunch is provided at the estate’s cafeteria.

The tour involves moderate-paced walking , so participants should be prepared for an active day. Those with dietary restrictions should communicate them in advance.

While the tour give you a comprehensive experience, site closures or modifications may occur.

Plus, the group tour may not be wheelchair accessible , so guests with mobility concerns should inquire about accommodations.

Customer Reviews and Ratings

With an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars based on 65 reviews, customers have overwhelmingly praised the day trip to Mount Vernon.

Key highlights include:

Highly knowledgeable and engaging tour guides who provided insightful commentary on the estate and its history.

Stunning scenic views during the 1.5-hour cruise along the Potomac River.

Excellent value for money , with the included lunch and VIP seating on the boat.

A few suggestions for improvement, such as better drink service during lunch and clearer identification for tour participants.

River Cruise and VIP Privileges

As passengers embark on the scenic 1.5-hour cruise down the Potomac River, they’ll enjoy VIP privileges with prime seating on the boat.

The cruise offers a relaxing journey, allowing travelers to take in the stunning views of the nation’s capital. Onboard, guests can soak up the picturesque landscapes and learn about the history of the river from expert guides.

The VIP treatment ensures a comfortable and exclusive experience, setting the tone for the rest of the day’s activities at George Washington’s Mount Vernon estate .

This seamless transition from the river to the historic site enhances the overall immersion in the past.

Exploring George Washington’s Estate

After the relaxing cruise , guests disembark at the historic Mount Vernon estate , where they begin their exploration of George Washington’s renowned plantation .

The expansive grounds offer a glimpse into the life of the first U.S. president, from the grand mansion to the working farm.

Highlights include:

Touring the meticulously preserved mansion, including Washington’s private study and final resting place.

Visiting the blacksmith’s shop, overseers’ quarters, and greenhouse to gain insights into the lives of the estate’s enslaved workers.

Strolling through the lush gardens and scenic vistas that inspired Washington’s agricultural innovations.

Enjoying a lunch at the on-site cafeteria, providing a chance to refuel before the return journey.

Lunch and Insights Into Enslaved Persons

Guests then enjoy a much-needed lunch at Mount Vernon’s cafeteria, providing an opportunity to refuel before the return journey.

The cafeteria offers a selection of locally-sourced, historically-inspired dishes , allowing visitors to immerse themselves further in the estate’s rich heritage.

Following lunch, the guided tour explores the lives of the enslaved individuals who lived and worked on the grounds, providing a sobering yet important glimpse into the complex history of the era.

Visitors gain insights into the daily routines , living conditions, and contributions of the enslaved community, fostering a deeper understanding of the realities that shaped George Washington’s world.

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Small Group National Mall Night Tour With 10 Top Attractions

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring Children on the Tour?

Yes, children are welcome on the tour. The small group size and included lunch make it suitable for families. However, the walking tour may be challenging for younger children, so parental discretion is advised.

Is There an Option to Extend the Cruise Duration?

Though the tour’s itinerary includes a 1.5-hour Potomac River cruise, there’s no option to extend the duration. The tour focuses on the Mount Vernon estate, and the cruise length is set to ensure participants have enough time to explore the historic site.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour has no strict dress code, but casual and comfortable attire is recommended. Layering is advised as the climate can change during the day, especially on the boat cruise portion of the excursion.

Can I Purchase Souvenirs at the Estate?

Visitors can purchase souvenirs and gifts at the estate’s onsite gift shop. The shop offers a wide selection of Mount Vernon-themed items, including apparel, books, home decor, and more, allowing guests to commemorate their visit.

Is There a Discount for Seniors or Students?

There’s no mention of discounts for seniors or students on this tour. However, the tour price is all-inclusive, covering transportation, admission, lunch, and guided experiences, so it may still offer good value for various age groups.

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This captivating day trip from Washington, DC, to Mount Vernon offers a unique opportunity to take in American history. The scenic river cruise , VIP access to the estate, and insights into the lives of enslaved individuals create a truly memorable and enriching experience. With a locally-sourced lunch and personalized attention, this small group tour is a must-do for history enthusiasts visiting the nation’s capital.

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COMMENTS

What to Wear on a River Cruise in Europe (+ Packing List!)
Formal evening wear - Most European river cruises do not have a formal night. If they do, you'll find the dress code for river cruises isn't as strict as for ocean cruises. There's no need to go over the top on formal night on river cruises in Europe. You can wear black pants and dressier top or a simple black dress and pashmina.
River cruise packing list: What to pack when traveling by riverboat
That said, especially on Europe river cruises, most folks like to wear a nicer shirt or top for dinner layered with a nice scarf, vest or a thin easy-to-fold jacket. Passengers on higher-end river cruise lines in Europe (such as Uniworld and AmaWaterways) tend to dress up in the evenings more than guests on more affordable cruises. ...
What to Wear on a River Cruise in Europe (+ Packing List)
What to Wear on European River Cruise in Fall. Similar to cruising in Spring, doing a river cruise in Fall can have extremely changeable and wet weather. Therefore it is always a good idea to take water proof and water proof clothing, a good umbrella and plenty of lightweight layers with you.
Pack For Your River Cruise
The question is "What to wear?" The good news is that river cruising is much different than large ship cruising, with a more casual, laidback onboard atmosphere. There is no formal dress code, and you can do as much or as little as you choose. However, it is helpful to be prepared, and less is more. Review The Cruise Itinerary. You'll want ...
What to Pack for a European River Cruise for All Seasons
What to Wear on a River Cruise in Europe . While your typical cruise is mostly about having fun onboard, river cruises are all about exploring the sights of each destination you stop at and experiencing the culture around you. For this reason, river cruises are much more casual and easy to dress for. The main things to focus on when choosing ...
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On-board a Crystal river cruise, guests are advised to wear comfortable and casual wear during the day. This includes the dining room, however, swimswuits, cover-ups, robes and baseball caps are not appropriate in the dining room during the day. In the evenings, the dress code is Crystal Casual which is a dressed-up version of daytime dress code.
What to Pack for a River Cruise in Europe
Here's everything you need to know about packing for a river cruise in Europe: 1. Suitcase and Travel Bags For a River Cruise in Europe. What You'll Need: Each person should plan on one suitcase ...
What to Wear on a River Cruise in Europe and USA
Strictly nice casual. That's the dress code aboard a river cruise. Unlike formal nights on ocean cruises, river cruises are more about the destinations than onboard dress-up events. Keep it simple. Unlike on an ocean cruise, there are no formal nights on a river cruise. The dressiest it gets is the Captain's Farewell Dinner on the last night.
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For daytime and excursions, think shorts or light trousers in warm weather, and jeans with jumpers when it cools down. Dining Dress Code: Lunch is casual, reflecting your daytime attire. Dinner, however, nudges towards smart casual, with shorts, T-shirts, and jeans generally discouraged.
What to Wear on a River Cruise in Europe?
Key Takeaways: Pack versatile clothing for a river cruise in Europe, considering both casual and formal attire for day and evening. Comfortable shoes are a must for exploring destinations and participating in on-board activities. Remember to pack sun protection, consider the weather and dress code, and avoid overpacking.
What to Wear on a River Cruise in Europe
A river cruise event on the quay, late afternoon. Activewear such as sports leggings, t-shirts, sweatshirts and baseball caps are also acceptable for day wear, especially if you are planning to take part in any activities or use the onboard fitness centre. During the day, smart shorts are acceptable, especially in warm weather during the summer ...
How to create a capsule wardrobe for river cruises (with outfit
How to put together capsule wardrobe river cruise outfits. The keys to putting together any capsule wardrobe is "pack less wear more" as in, pack fewer things but be able to wear them in several styles and outfits. Therefore for putting together a river cruise capsule wardrobe we recommend. Choosing a color palette and sticking to it as ...
What to Pack for a Europe River Cruise in Any Season
Recap of How and What to Pack. Now you should have a good idea of how and what to pack for a European river cruise. To recap: Get lightweight, four-wheel spinner luggage. Leave valuable jewelry at home. Pack only enough clothes for one week. Dress like a European - dark colors to mix and match with pretty scarves.
What I Packed For a European WINTER River Cruise ...
Waterproof is the key word here! Bottoms. 4-5 pairs of Trousers/Pants or jeans - balance warmth with comfort. Evening Wear. 2 or 3 outfits for any special dinners. River cruises are usually relaxed, but it's nice to dress up occasionally. Pyjamas. A couple of sets for a cosy, good night's sleep.
What to Wear on a European River Cruise
Although a few river cruise lines will ask gentlemen to wear a jacket for special events such as a Captain's Dinner, in most cases you can leave the sports coats, suits and ties at home. Women have a lot of clothing options, although jeans are not normally worn by the ladies either. Unless specified by your cruise line, cocktail dresses or ...
Women's Capsule Wardrobe for a River Cruise Vacation
Make sure all your clothes co-ordinate so they can be mixed and matched. Remember you will need an outfit to travel in! Wear your bulkiest clothes and shoes where possible. Download our complete packing list below for all quantities and a checklist of items. Also see our River Cruise Capsule Wardrobe for Men.
15 Awesome Fashion Tips For A Riverboat Dinner Cruise
Slip dress. Slip dresses are versatile pieces that can work both for a casual daytime cruise and a semi-formal evening cruise. During the day, pair your slip dress with flat sandals and a wide-brimmed hat for a chic, sun-safe look. However, for the evening, switch the sandals for strappy heels and add some sparkling jewelry.
Men's Capsule Wardrobe, River Cruise Vacation
Make sure all your clothes co-ordinate so they can be mixed and matched. Remember you will need an outfit to travel in! Wear your bulkiest clothes and shoes where possible. Download our complete packing list below for all quantities and a checklist of items. Also see our River Cruise Capsule Wardrobe for Women.
Washington Dc: Mt. Vernon Day Trip With River Cruise
Recap. This captivating day trip from Washington, DC, to Mount Vernon offers a unique opportunity to take in American history. The scenic river cruise, VIP access to the estate, and insights into the lives of enslaved individuals create a truly memorable and enriching experience. With a locally-sourced lunch and personalized attention, this small group tour is a must-do for history enthusiasts ...
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Best viewed from a river cruise. The bridge spans over Amur River from the city centre to the other side for both cars and trains. Best viewed from a river cruise. Read more. Review of: Khabarovsk Bridge. Written 30 June 2019. This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks ...
THE BEST Khabarovsk River Rafting & Tubing
Khabarovsk Hotels Things to Do Restaurants Flights Vacation Rentals Cruises Rental Cars Forums. Europe. Russia. Far Eastern District. Khabarovsk Krai. Khabarovsk. Things to Do in Khabarovsk. Outdoor activities in Khabarovsk. River Rafting & Tubing in Khabarovsk.

What to Wear on a River Cruise in Europe (+ Packing List!)

What to Wear on a River Cruise in Europe

Types of European River Cruise Outfits

Dressing for the Season

Tips on How to Pack for a River Cruise

Viking River Cruise Packing List

River Cruise Clothes

River Cruise Essentials

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River cruise packing list: What to pack when traveling by riverboat

What to pack on a river cruise

Lightweight layers

Casual clothes for day and night

Accessories and travel gear

Tips for river cruise packing

River cruise packing list

Bottom line

What to Pack for a European River Cruise for All Seasons

River Boat Cruise Europe Packing List

How Long Are European River Cruises and When Is Best to Go?

What to Wear on a River Cruise in Europe

What to Pack On a European River Cruise in Spring and Summer

Pants for a Spring and Summer European River Cruise

Tops for a Spring and Summer European River Cruise

Dresses for a Spring and Summer European River Cruise

Layering Item for a Spring and Summer European River Cruise

Jackets for a Spring and Summer European River Cruise

Shoes for a Spring and Summer European River Cruise

Accessories for a Spring and Summer European River Cruise

What to Pack on A European River Cruise in Fall and Winter

Pants for a Fall and Winter European River Cruise

Tops for a Fall and Winter European River Cruise

Dresses for a Fall and Winter European River Cruise

Jackets for a Fall and Winter European River Cruise

Shoes for a Fall and Winter European River Cruise

What Luggage and Handbags to Bring for a European River Cruise

Luggage for a European River Cruise

Personal Item for a European River Cruise

Final European River Cruise Tips

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What to Wear on a River Cruise in Europe?

Key Takeaways:

What to Expect on a River Cruise in Europe?

Destinations

Accommodations

On-board Activities

What to Pack for a River Cruise in Europe?

Accessories

What to Wear During the Day on a River Cruise in Europe?

Casual Wear

Comfortable Shoes