subject: European River Cruises [print this page] European river cruises are tremendously popular because the continent is home to some breathtaking rivers. Perhaps the Danube is the most famous, winding its way through Austria, Hungary, Germany, Slovakia, Bulgaria, Croatia and Moldova, amongst others. It originates in the Black Forest of Germany and enters the Black Sea in Romania and Ukraine. Contrary to popular belief however, the Danube is not Europes longest river. That title is claimed by the Volga which flows through central Russia.
Another famous river in Europe is the Rhine. This particularly scenic waterway is sourced in the Swiss Alps and flows through Germany, Austria and France until it enters the North Sea in the Netherlands. Rivalling the Rhines beauty is the Moselle, or Mosel, as it is known in Germany. Originating in the Vosges Mountains of France, it flows through Luxembourg and Germany before joining the Rhine in the city of Koblenz.
All of these rivers are navigable by cruise ships, and make for particularly scenic holidays. The Mighty Fine Company offers a selection of European river cruises with varying themes. A seven night cruise entitled Vineyards of the Rhine and Mosel takes travellers on a serene tour of Germanys wine growing region. Boarding in Luxembourg, the cruise incorporates the riverside towns of Koblenz, Cochem, Mainz, Rudesheim and Cologne, concluding in Amsterdam. With walking tours in every town and wine tasting, holidaymakers can get a true feel for the country.
Another of the Mighty Fine Companys tempting European river cruises is Magnificent Europe, a 14-night cruise that takes passengers along the Rhine, Main and Danube from Amsterdam to Budapest. The rivers are connected by the Main-Danube Canal which is a manmade waterway. Construction of the canal began in 1938, but it wasnt until 1992 that it was finally opened. This relatively new artery through Europe makes for a fascinating cruise holiday.
The Mighty Fine Company also offer special European river cruises for the festive season. Their cruise entitled Christmas on the Rhine is a seven night cruise which takes in the Christmas markets of the towns that line the riverbank. Calling at Zurich, Lucerne, Breisach, Strasbourg, Rudesheim and Cologne, holidaymakers will have plenty of opportunity to do their Christmas shopping. With festive gifts, candles, handmade ornaments and tasty treats, the Christmas markets of the Rhine are the perfect place to find unique and unusual gifts for loved ones.
