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The Wachau is the landscape in and around the Danube valley between Melk and Krems an der Donau in Lower Austria, about 80 kilometers west of the federal capital Vienna. In 2000 it was added to the list of UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage as the Wachau cultural landscape with the Melk and Göttweig monasteries and the old town of Krems.
River Cruise

Europe

European River Cruises

Explore The Best Europe River Cruises Has To Offer

From the Rhine, Main and Danube Rivers in Central Europe, to the Douro River in Portugal, there are so many places to visit and things to do in Europe by river cruise. Unpack once and travel aboard our new-generation luxury river ships as you discover charming villages and picturesque countryside along Europe’s most majestic waterways. Relish exclusive experiences at Vienna’s City Palace and a ‘Sound of Music’ Show. Throughout your European river cruise, be stimulated by rare sights, tastes and sounds. Go beyond the expected and discover Europe in a whole new way with APT.

Your Floating Hotel

Relax in your stylish and comfortable room or suite

All Taken Care Of

From overseas transfers and luggage porterage to port charges and tipping

Luxury Service

Our Cruise and Tour Directors have built a reputation as the best in the business

Our Europe River Cruise Tours

Explore Europe's Rivers

A European river cruise with APT offers an array of exciting destinations and sights, journeying along Europe’s most unforgettable waterways: the Rhine, Main and Danube Rivers in Central Europe and the Douro River in Portugal. Wherever you go, you will explore charming villages and magnificent countryside; and enjoy an array of tantalising experiences.

Rhine, Main and Danube Rivers

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.

Porto also known as Oporto. the second-largest city in Portugal.Southern Europe. Located along the Douro river estuary in northern Portugal. Porto is one of the oldest European centres, and registered as a World Heritage Site by UNESCO. One of Portugal's internationally famous exports, port wine, is named for Porto, since the metropolitan area, and in particular the adegas of Vila Nova de Gaia

Douro River

On a Douro River Cruise, sail from Porto to Barca d'Alva aboard the band-new MS Estrela. Discover the Douro Valley's picturesque countryside, decorated with green vinyards, 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.

Vienna's City Palace

Be welcomed into Vienna’s City Palace for a cocktail party. Then, enjoy a private concert of a full orchestra performing classical masterpieces by Mozart and Strauss, complete with an operatic recital.

Namedy Castle

Princess Heide von Hohenzollern graciously welcomes APT guests into her home, Namedy Castle, a royal escape set near the Rhine River in Germany. After wandering through the castle and its manicured gardens, you’ll attend a cocktail party or morning tea, accompanied by a classical piano recital.

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.

Incredible Experiences

A European river cruise with APT is your passport to a world of exclusive and enriching experiences. Immerse yourself in the cultural tapestry of Europe with unique opportunities such as attending a private classical concert at Vienna’s City Palace, experiencing the timeless charm of a 'Sound of Music' show in Salzburg, and enjoying the soulful melodies of a Fado performance at the Palacio da Bolsa in Porto. Visit the historic Namedy Castle for a glimpse into Europe's regal past, and engage with local cultures through APT’s Signature Experiences. These curated activities are designed to connect you deeply with each destination’s unique heritage and beauty, ensuring that your journey is as enlightening as it is luxurious.

Europe's Newest River Ship Fleet

Sail aboard Europe’s most majestic waterways with APT’s newest fleet of river ships, including the APT Solara, APT Ostara, and the brand-new MS Estrela. Our ships set the standard in river cruising luxury, offering stunning suites, world-class dining, and state-of-the-art facilities. Each vessel is designed to enhance your river cruising experience with panoramic views, open-air balconies, and inviting communal areas that make the most of your journey. Unpack just once and enjoy an unparalleled level of comfort and convenience as you glide past Europe’s breathtaking landscapes and storied cities.

What's On Board

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Label images as (Artist's Impression)
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Come aboard the APT Solara and APT Ostara

With a host of alluring features, our brand-new, ultra-modern river ships, APT Solara and APT Ostara, offer unmatched opulence and style when travelling along the Rhine, Main and Danube Rivers. Whether enjoying a cocktail up on the Sun Deck or retreating to your spacious, light-filled suite, there is so much to discover on board.

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2023 Photoshoot aboard the AmaReina.
New ship build design process for MS Ostara & Solara with Lou Tandy, Paul Hecker and Hamish Guthrie

Purpose-built for European Rivers

Crafted in Melbourne by the globally acclaimed Hecker Guthrie design team, our brand-new vessels seamlessly blend contemporary elegance with timeless allure, drawing inspiration from Europe's waterways, seasons, and locales.

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The Wachau is the landscape in and around the Danube valley between Melk and Krems an der Donau in Lower Austria, about 80 kilometers west of the federal capital Vienna. In 2000 it was added to the list of UNESCO World Cultural and Natural Heritage as the Wachau cultural landscape with the Melk and Göttweig monasteries and the old town of Krems.

Sustainability Initiatives

Our ships utilise the most advanced and environmentally friendly technology currently available, which has earned us Green Award ‘Gold’ status. We champion eco-conscious best practices with no single-use plastics, and menus that minimise food waste.

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Personalised Service

A high crew-to-guest ratio offers impeccable onboard service and all suite categories feature indulgent in-suite dining. Your ship will have a dedicated Cruise Director on board, superb entertainment and a wellness host.

Beautiful Europe River Cruises Are Waiting

Discover the timeless charm and beauty of Europe’s iconic rivers—from the Rhine to the Douro—each offering a unique window into the continent's soul. Experience the luxury of our suites, the pleasure of refined cuisine, and the thrill of exploring hidden gems and cultural landmarks. With APT Luxury Travel, you’re not just taking a trip; you’re weaving your own tapestry of unforgettable memories filled with adventure, culture, and the unparalleled beauty of European waterways. Join us to discover a world where each bend in the river reveals a new story waiting to be told.

Immerse Yourself In The Richness Of Europe River Cruising

An APT Europe River Cruise is filled with unique experiences that connect you deeply with the culture, history, and natural beauty of the regions you visit:

Cultural Immersion

Participate in local traditions, from wine tastings in famed vineyards along the Douro to attending a private classical music concert in a Viennese palace.

Historical Exploration

Discover the layers of history that define European cities, with exclusive guided tours of ancient castles, medieval towns, and significant World War sites.

Gutenfels Castle also known as Caub Castle,  sits above the town of Kaub in Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany.

Natural Wonders

Experience the diverse ecosystems along Europe’s rivers, from the verdant landscapes of the Netherlands to the dramatic gorges of the Rhine.

Adventure Opportunities

Engage in active exploration with guided mountain treks in Germany, cycling tours in the French countryside, or kayaking excursions on the Danube.

Also known as the Garden of Europe, is one of the world's largest flower gardens, situated in Lisse, Netherlands.

Seasonal Delights

Travel during special times of the year to witness events like the Keukenhof tulip bloom in Amsterdam or the festive Christmas markets in Germany.

Local Connections

Meet with local artisans, chefs, and historians who provide a personal perspective on their homelands, enhancing your understanding and appreciation of each destination.

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