The Amazon River, winding through the heart of South America, is a marvel of nature that offers unparalleled adventure in one of the most biodiverse regions on Earth. Originating from the Peruvian Andes, the Amazon travels through nine countries before emptying into the Atlantic Ocean.
Coursing through 10 countries, the Danube is the second-longest river in Europe. This waterway, lined with fortresses and castles, rises in Germany's Black Forest and runs for 1,770 miles to the Black Sea. The Danube is an essential commercial thoroughfare for central and southeastern Europe, and several river cruise companies sail vessels on it year-round. Destinations along this river include Vienna, Budapest, Passau and Bratislava.
The Dordogne River flows from the mountains of Auvergne to Bordeaux through the magnificent French countryside. The valley area named for the river is full of bucolic scenery, dotted with welcoming rural villages, quaint riverside castles, and plenty of opportunities for gourmet meals in true French tradition.
One of the major rivers of the Iberian Peninsula, the Douro in north-central Spain and Portugal just might be the world's most beautiful wine region. Most of the river on the Spanish side isn't navigable, so river cruises generally travel roundtrip from Porto, on the coast of the Atlantic.
The Elbe is one of the Central Europe's greatest rivers, rising in the northern Czech Republic, traversing through Bohemia and Germany, and flowing into the North Sea not far from Hamburg. The river and its route have been largely untouched, so wildlife visibly abounds along its wetlands and wooded regions. Other scenery includes terraced vineyards and charming wine villages.
The River Ganges, flowing through India and Bangladesh, supports millions of people living in the river basin. In Hinduism, the river is considered the most sacred, and as a result it is in important element of many Hindu rituals and festivals.
The Ijssel is is a slow-moving lowlands river flowing northeastward through the Netherlands as a distributary of the Rhine.
The Main River winds through the heart of Germany, offering a scenic journey through picturesque towns, rolling vineyards, and historic cities.
The Mekong River, one of the world’s most iconic waterways, flows through six countries in Southeast Asia (China, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam). Stretching over 4,300 kilometers, the Mekong weaves through lush landscapes, villages, and historic cities, making it an unforgettable destination for those seeking adventure. Cruising along the river is one of the best ways to explore its wonders, from the tranquil waters of Laos to the floating markets of Vietnam.
A tributary of the Rhine, the Moselle River flows through France, Luxembourg and Germany. The Moselle also lends its name to a region of France, a valley which it bisects, and a wine produced along its banks.
The Po River, the longest in Italy, flows eastward from Monte Viso, in the Cottian Alps, through the northern part of the country and drains into the Adriatic Sea near Venice. The Po flows through many important Italian cities, including Turin, Cremona, Piacenza, Ferrara.
Whether cruising along its waters, exploring historic towns, or simply soaking in the scenic views, the Rhine River offers an experience that is as diverse as the countries it passes through.
