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Lowest Airfare Guarantee is no longer valid at Flight Centre stores in New Zealand as of Thursday 14 July 2022. Click here for more information . A Travel Expert Service Fee will be applied to bookings made in store, over the phone or via email, and is charged in addition to the advertised price. Click here for more information. *Travel restrictions & conditions apply. Review any specific conditions stated and our general terms at Terms and Conditions . Prices & taxes are in NZD and are correct as at the date of publication & are subject to availability and change without notice. Prices quoted are on sale until the dates specified unless otherwise stated or sold out prior. Prices are per person.

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Discover European River Cruising

Choose Your Next European Cruise

Western Front Explorer

Amsterdam Return

Danube Discovery

Munich → Budapest

Magnificent Europe with Christmas and New Years Eve

Amsterdam → Budapest

Explore Europe's Rivers

Rhine, Main, Danube Rivers | Central Europe

Explore stunning central Europe aboard a luxury European river cruise, discovering five countries between Amsterdam and Budapest on our most popular river cruise. You’ll discover a host of charming towns and villages, and enjoy exclusive experiences at Vienna’s City Palace and a ‘Sound of Music’ Show.

Douro River | Portugal

On a Douro River Cruise, sail from Porto to Barca d’Alva aboard the brand-new MS Estrela. Discover the Douro Valley’s picturesque countryside, decorated with green vineyards, castle ruins, unforgettable gorges, small villages and quaint quintas. Complement your cruise in Portugal with a tour in Spain, visiting Barcelona, Cordoba, Madrid, Seville and more.  

Europe's Newest River Ship Fleet

Discover Europe’s most majestic waterways, including the Rhine, Main, Danube and Douro Rivers, aboard our newly launched fleet of river ships. Unpack once and relish world-class dining, the finest onboard facilities, immaculate service and more aboard our next-generation APT Solara and APT Ostara and our brand-new MS Estrela. APT has redefined river cruising with an unprecedented amount of luxury in our custom-designed fleet.

APT Solara & APT Ostara

MS Estrela | Portugal

Brand-new Douro River Ship

In 2025, cruise along the Main, Rhine and Danube rivers on the luxe, next-generation, APT Solara and APT Ostara. Experience world-class dining options with an array of meals created from fresh, local produce. Relax in spacious suites with elegant interiors designed by Australia’s own Hecker Guthrie and experience the APT difference.

Our luxury brand-new MS Estrela cruises through Portugal’s unforgettable Douro Valley. Take to the Sun Deck for a dip in the pool or a hit on the putting green, savour the finest dining and enjoy panoramic views of Portugal’s stunning Douro Valley.

APT is delighted to announce a brand-new ship for the Douro River to make her maiden voyage in 2024.

Incredible Experiences

Exclusive classical concert.

Enjoy an exclusive and lavish cocktail party at Vienna’s City Palace. Savour a private concert with an orchestral performance of Mozart and Strauss, and music from the Mozart Boys’ Choir. 

Namedy Castle Visit

Meet Princess Heide von Hohenzollern and explore her magnificent home, Namedy Castle, and its manicured grounds. You’ll attend a cocktail party or morning tea at this glorious royal escape in Germany.  

Signature Experiences

Enjoy an exclusive 'Sound of Music' show in Salzburg and visit to Vienna's City Palace for a classical concert. These are some of our Signature Experiences, once-in-a-lifetime moments that immerse you in local history, culture and traditions. 

Voyage magazine

Discover inspiration and read up on our most unforgettable European River Cruising trips and destinations as you prepare for your next trip of a lifetime. A whole new world of discovery awaits you in Europe in 2024. 

Christmas Markets

No one does Christmas like Europe, so join us over the festive period on a Christmas cruise and discover Europe’s enchanting Christmas markets, sample mulled wine, and visit a Nutcracker workshop. 

Fado at Palacio da Bolsa

Why not experience Palacio da Bolsa in ceremonial style? Attend a cocktail reception in this beautiful 18th-century palace, before enjoying a traditional fado performance in the Arabian Hall.

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River Cruising

Glide through an endless maze of waterways and experience the majesty of river cruising. Discover the unique spectacles of the world’s greatest river journeys: the baroque Danube, the ancient Nile, the vibrant Mekong, the abundant Amazon and many more. Every river brings a new adventure – our expert team of Flight Centre cruising specialists will help you choose your perfect journey.

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Canal Du Midi

**LE BOAT - CAPRICE** Homps Return

Going Dutch

**LE BOAT - CONSOL** Vinkeveen Return

A Taste of the Danube

**AVALON WATERWAYS - Deluxe Stateroom Category D** 2024 Offer : WAS R35 890 - SAVE R8000!

Brilliant Bordeaux

**UNIWORLD - SS BON VOYAGE** WAS R61 000 - SAVING of R30 000 Per Person Included | All Inclusive Luxury - Uncover the proud legacy and heritage of...

Rhine Experience Netherlands & Belgium

**A-ROSA - AQUA (PREMIUM)** Cruise the Northern Rhine from Cologne

Danube Symphony

**AVALON WATERWAYS - Deluxe Stateroom Category D** 2024 Offer : WAS R52 100 - SAVE R11 990!

Burgundy & Provence

**UNIWORLD - SS CATHERINE** WAS R71 000 - SAVING of R30 000 Per Person Included | All Inclusive Luxury

Enchanting Danube

**UNIWORLD - SS MARIA THERESA** WAS R76 000 - SAVE R30 000 per person! | All Inclusive Luxury - This perfectly composed journey provides an immersive...

Paris & Normandy

**UNIWORLD - SS JOIE DE VIVRE** WAS R84 000 - SAVING of R30 000 Per Person Included | All Inclusive Luxury

The Rhine & Moselle: Canals, Vineyards & Castles

**AVALON WATERWAYS - Deluxe Stateroom Category D** 2024 Offer : WAS R75 060 - SAVE R20 000!

Danube Dreams

**AVALON WATERWAYS - Deluxe Stateroom Category D** 2024 Offer : WAS R76 760 - SAVE R20 000!

Romantic Rhine

**AVALON WATERWAYS - Deluxe Stateroom Category D** 2024 Offer : WAS R76 760 - SAVE R16 000!

Portugal, Spain & The Douro River Valley

**UNIWORLD - SS SAO GABRIEL** WAS R92 000 - SAVING of R30 000 Per Person Included |All Inclusive Luxury - An extraordinary, 10 night journey...

Highlights of Eastern Europe

**UNIWORLD - SS BEATRICE | RIVER DUCHESS** WAS R106 000 - SAVING of R30 000 Per Person Included | All Inclusive Luxury

Imagine a world of privileged experiences where you can discover secluded waterside villages and authentic traditions. A river cruise will unlock th most scenic treasures while offering cruisers a relaxing and luxurious experience.

Take a moment for yourself on a holiday river cruise. From the magical sparkle of Germany’s classic Christmas markets to the festive treasures of Vienna and the old-world villages and classic cathedrals of Budapest, a river cruise is an unforgettable way to celebrate the holiday season. Speak to one of our cruising specialists today and let Flight Centre help you plan your holiday getaway.

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Info for children under 15 years old travelling alone »

Cruise to Rhine River

Rhine River Cruises: Your guide to sailing one of Europe's iconic waterways

Wave hello to our handpicked cruise deals and packages

There are so many reasons to love cruising. let's add irresistible savings and bonus value to the list, oh buoy, these deals are good, from stylish decor to unforgettable experiences - we have deals that are sure to make a splash, anchor down our most popular cruise deals.

Destinations that are making a splash

Frequently asked questions

The Rhine River flows through Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Austria, Germany, France, and the Netherlands. Your Rhine River cruise will take in the natural beauty, historical sites, and cultural experiences of all these incredible places. 

In Switzerland, your journey might begin in Basel, a vibrant city known for its rich history and impressive architecture. Liechtenstein, while small in size, is fascinating to explore, with mediaeval castles, alpine landscapes and villages linked by a network of trails.  

In France, Strasbourg is a popular French destination on Rhine River cruises, and Germany has many stunning cities along the Rhine River such as Rüdesheim and Cologne. A Rhine River cruise often culminates in the Netherlands, with Amsterdam being a key stop.  

While Austria is not directly located on the Rhine River, many cruise companies offer combined land and river tours that allow you to experience the best of both worlds. These holidays often include a land tour of Austria—one of Europe's most scenic countries—and a river cruise along the romantic Rhine. In Austria, you can explore stunning cities like Vienna, known for its imperial palaces, vibrant music scene, and rich history.

The best time to cruise the Rhine River largely depends on your personal preferences and cruises operate year-round. Late April to early June and September to early October are widely considered the best times due to ideal weather conditions and manageable crowds. These shoulder seasons of spring and autumn are particularly scenic, with blooming flowers or fiery-hued foliage. If you prefer warmer temperatures, the summer months of July and August can be hot and humid, but still bearable while cruising on the river. For those who enjoy festive atmospheres, early December can be a magical time to go on a Rhine River cruise as nearly every stop has delightful Christmas markets.

As a general rule river cruising is not as family-friendly as ocean cruising and some river vessels are not safe or suitable for very small children. However, several cruise lines do welcome families on board. AmaWaterways partners with Adventures by Disney to create the best line for kids, cruising along Europe's most stunning rivers, including the Rhine. There are tailored excursions with onboard entertainment and special treats (like Mickey-shaped snacks and Disney movies) that are suitable for the whole family. Other family-friendly lines cruising the Rhine River include Uniworld, Emerald Cruises and Tauck. Some cruise lines only welcome children during European school holidays, so check before you book.

Expect a mix of international dishes and specialties from countries along the Rhine, like German sausages or French pastries. Each cruise offers a diverse culinary experience, but expect familiar favourites along with delicious dishes inspired by the regions you’re visiting. Special onboard events like wine tasting, cheese tasting, cooking classes or themed meals will allow you to experience more of the local cuisine. Shore excursions also regularly visit local wineries, food markets and restaurants.

The Euro is widely accepted in most countries along the Rhine. You’ll also find Australian and international credit cards will work in most destinations.

The classic Rhine River cruise generally lasts around eight days, with itineraries available between Basel, Switzerland, and Amsterdam, Netherlands. However, there are also more comprehensive cruises that range from 14 to 20 days, offering a more extensive exploration of the Rhine Valley. Different cruise lines will offer varying itineraries, with cruises lasting anywhere from eight to 11 days.

Yes, many cruises offer themed nights, live music, dance performances, and cultural lectures related to the regions along the Rhine. Expect onboard entertainment tailored to European culture and to the traditions of the ports you’ll visit. Many cruise lines offer a variety of cultural enrichment programs that include lectures, cooking demonstrations, language lessons, and performances by local musicians and dancers.

All countries included in a Rhine River cruise are part of the Schengen Area. Citizens from Australia, the United States, Canada, New Zealand and the UK don’t need a visa for these countries. You can travel freely within the 27 nations of the Schengen Area for a maximum stay of up to 90 days in any 180-day period.

Yes, some cruises focus on wine tasting, Christmas markets or historical events. Themed cruises offer guests an enchanting experience to delve into their interests, while watching the beautiful riverbanks of the Rhine pass by. Riviera River Cruises offers an Enchanting Rhine and Yuletide Markets River Cruise, which explores Germany's traditional Christmas markets. And Amadeus River Cruises has special-interest cruises, including golf cruises on the Rhine.

Absolutely! If you like to travel in style, luxury river cruise lines feature spacious cabins with private balconies and butler service, all-inclusive fine dining and fine wines, plus features like swimming pools and wellness retreats. Try Scenic, Uniworld, Viking, Tauck and the Avalon Waterways.

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*Travel restrictions & conditions apply. Review any specific conditions stated and our general terms at Terms and Conditions . Prices & taxes are correct as at the date of publication & are subject to availability and change without notice. Prices quoted are on sale until the dates specified unless otherwise stated or sold out prior. Prices are per person.