River cruises in Europe are a wonderful alternative to ocean cruises which can become stale and monotonous over time. These types of cruises can offer you the opportunity to explore many different and popular locations within a matter of weeks.

You will be transported to great locations in countries such as Spain, Holland, Great Britain, Germany, Russia and Egypt. There will be a mixture of locations that are completely off the beaten track as well as popular tourist areas.

This is the advantage of river cruises in Europe. The boats can reach places inland that no ocean liner can. You will be able to relax and watch some beautiful scenery pass you by at a leisurely pace. You can disembark when you reach the ports on the itinerary and investigate many obscure locations and well known cities.

The accommodation aboard the river boats is tidy and has all the mod-cons you would expect. Many of the cabins have balconies where you can sit in the sun and enjoy the passing views. A number of the boats have facilities on board such as steam rooms, saunas, hairdressers and games rooms. Once you leave the ship you are free to indulge in activities including golf, cycling and hiking.

If you ask people who have been on river cruises, they will also recommend that you try northern Europe cruises. These trips take you to places such as Denmark, Finland and Norway. One of the most popular reasons for taking these cruises is the chance to witness the “Midnight Sun”. In the far north, the sun does not set; it is in the sky for a full 24 hours. This phenomenon can be experienced by opting for northern Europe cruises and will leave a lasting impression.

If you have now been convinced that river cruises in Europe or northern Europe cruises are a great option for you, searching the World Wide Web will throw up many cruise operators with these packages. All the information you want and need can be found on their sites and many will let you book online. It is best at the time of booking your chosen cruise to inform the operator of any specific requirements including dietary issues or mobility issues.

Even if you only have a limited amount of time, you can still take advantage of these types of cruises. Many cruise companies offer short breaks which only last three or four days. The package generally includes flights to and from destinations so you can join in the adventure at various points in the ship’s itinerary.

Essentially, river cruises in Europe are a break from the monotony of ocean cruises and provide wonderful opportunities to delve into the heart of many European countries. You will be left with some treasured memories if this unique experience.