River Cruises Easy Tours & Trip Packages

River Cruises Easy Tours & Trips

815 River Cruises trips. Tours from 159 tour companies. 392 reviews. 4.8/5 avg rating.

489 trips exactly matchall of the the filters you selected.
My selections:
Easy
Best of Cambodia: Siem Reap & Phnom Penh
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
By Odynovo
premier
5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Private Guided
Why we love them
They are able to handcraft custom trip plans in over 70 different destinations worldwide.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Phnom Penh , Siem Reap

Highlights

  • See the mysterious smiling faces of Bayon Temple
  • Catch the magical sunrise over the Angkor Wat
  • Ride a boat deep into the floating villages in the Tonle Sap Lake
  • Take in the stunning architecture of Royal Palace

Themes

Cultural, Family Friendly, Relaxing Retreats, Photography

What travelers are saying

"I cannot say enough good things about Odynovo, both on the coordination end (we worked with Laura Li, who was fantastic!) to the on-site people (shout out to our airport contact in Cairo Hassan, our skilled driver Ahmed, our fun Cairo guide Mai, and our knowledgable Aswan/Luxor guide Hazem - BEST crew EVER!!!) who make your trip a seamless, safe, exciting, educational, and all-around transformative life highlight. This experience was seriously a bucket-list one for my husband and me, and I can NOT emphasize enough how important the Odynovo team was to making Egypt an infinitely easier context to navigate. If you've watched travel vloggers and social media influencers attempt to navigate Egypt on their own and complain about a negative experience, fear not - if you go with Odynovo, every. single. thing. will be taken care of. There is NOTHING to worry about, and the experience was entirely positive. The people, the food, the culture, the historical sites and stories - with Odynovo taking care of all the logistical details, these are the only things you need to focus on. I am full of gratitude for the experience I had in Egypt, and I credit Odynovo for it. I will absolutely use them in the future for other destinations, and I urge you to do the same. I know my Egypt experience would not have been nearly the same had I not gone with Odynovo. Check out our adventure here: https://youtu.be/vMlAmVk7vBY Also, a passionate recommendation from my experience: DEFINITELY make the trip to Abu Simbel!! It was a major highlight (we went in a private car that left Aswan around 9am since we'd flown in from Cairo that morning). We stopped at the High Dam first, so by the time we arrived at Abu Simbel, the tour busses were on their way back to Aswan, and we had the whole of the site almost entirely to ourselves. It was one of the most awe-inspiring moments of my life. Do it. Stay the night in Abu Simbel if you can in order to avoid the crowds. It was amazing. ✨"

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
More
Best of Vietnam
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
By Odynovo
premier
5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Private Guided
Why we love them
They are able to handcraft custom trip plans in over 70 different destinations worldwide.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Da Nang, Ha Long Bay, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, Hoi An

Highlights

  • Discover significant sites and cultural delights in Vietnam's capital of Hanoi
  • Cruise through dramatic karst scenery on a boat tour of Halong Bay
  • Experience net fishing aboard a traditional basket boat in Hoi An
  • Explore historical landmarks within Ho Chi Minh City, along with Cu Chi
  • Tunnels and Mekong Delta

Themes

Cultural, Family Friendly, Hiking & Walking, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing, Sailing, Photography

What travelers are saying

"I cannot say enough good things about Odynovo, both on the coordination end (we worked with Laura Li, who was fantastic!) to the on-site people (shout out to our airport contact in Cairo Hassan, our skilled driver Ahmed, our fun Cairo guide Mai, and our knowledgable Aswan/Luxor guide Hazem - BEST crew EVER!!!) who make your trip a seamless, safe, exciting, educational, and all-around transformative life highlight. This experience was seriously a bucket-list one for my husband and me, and I can NOT emphasize enough how important the Odynovo team was to making Egypt an infinitely easier context to navigate. If you've watched travel vloggers and social media influencers attempt to navigate Egypt on their own and complain about a negative experience, fear not - if you go with Odynovo, every. single. thing. will be taken care of. There is NOTHING to worry about, and the experience was entirely positive. The people, the food, the culture, the historical sites and stories - with Odynovo taking care of all the logistical details, these are the only things you need to focus on. I am full of gratitude for the experience I had in Egypt, and I credit Odynovo for it. I will absolutely use them in the future for other destinations, and I urge you to do the same. I know my Egypt experience would not have been nearly the same had I not gone with Odynovo. Check out our adventure here: https://youtu.be/vMlAmVk7vBY Also, a passionate recommendation from my experience: DEFINITELY make the trip to Abu Simbel!! It was a major highlight (we went in a private car that left Aswan around 9am since we'd flown in from Cairo that morning). We stopped at the High Dam first, so by the time we arrived at Abu Simbel, the tour busses were on their way back to Aswan, and we had the whole of the site almost entirely to ourselves. It was one of the most awe-inspiring moments of my life. Do it. Stay the night in Abu Simbel if you can in order to avoid the crowds. It was amazing. ✨"

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
More
Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia: 18 Days of Splendid Discovery
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
By PrestiGo Asia
Local Expert
Verified by Travelstride as locally operated and in the top of their field for customer reviews, local knowledge, and safety.
5/5 Excellent
60 reviews
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Angkor Wat, Bangkok, Chiang Mai (Thailand), Ha Long Bay, Hoi An , Phnom Penh , Phuket

Highlights

  • Explore the pristine Van Long wetland on a small boat
  • Experience the local life and make your own lantern in Hoi An
  • Visit the magnificent temples of Angkor Wat
  • Witness the unique temples of Bangkok along the Chao Phraya River

Themes

Cultural, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing, Relaxing Retreats, Scuba Diving

What travelers are saying

"We tried many special foods, and visited many beautiful temples. The traffic was so bad, but we also did other fun things to explore Thailand and had a great time every day of our trip. Thanks to Alex and Prestigo Asia for making it all happen!"

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list

Health Safety

More
21 Day Grand Tour Discover Real New Zealand
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
By Real New Zealand Tours
Local Expert
Verified by Travelstride as locally operated and in the top of their field for customer reviews, local knowledge, and safety.
5/5 Excellent
41 reviews
Self-Guided / Independent Tour
Why we love them
They are dedicated to providing personalized, authentic, and sustainable travel experiences that showcase the best of their country.
Lodging level
Luxury - 5 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Auckland, Christchurch, Dunedin, Fiordland National Park, Pacific Ocean, Queenstown, Rotorua, Tasmania, Wellington

Highlights

  • All inclusive tour package prepared by New Zealand based specialists so you sit back and relax
  • An exciting itinerary will be customised to suit you - let us help plan and perfect your dream vacation
  • We offer self-drive trips (rental car) we arrange all your accomodations, activities, attractions (you select) we book your car (fun, freedom, independence, flexibility) you set the pace each day or, select a private driver trip (fully guided) or, escorted coach tours (daily commentary).
  • Either way, you will have an awesome time on our wonderful 21 day Grand New Zealand Tour with Real New Zealand Tours.

Themes

Cultural, Cycling & Biking, Hiking & Walking, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing, Relaxing Retreats, Small Ship Cruise, Train & Rail Journeys, Trekking & Expeditions, Yoga, Meditation & Wellness, Sailing, Golf

What travelers are saying

"Geoff helped my wife and I to put together an itinerary that customized to our particular interests and preferences. At the outset he asked us where we'd like to go and, after a small number of iterations, together we were able able to craft an itinerary that met our budget, touched on much of the places we wanted, and did not have us staying at a different resort each night. Before leaving for our trip we were given our itinerary and confirmation #'s/vouchers/contact #'s for all of our activities and hotels captured in an easy-to-use app that made it extremely easy to transition to the next point of our journey. He and his assistant were quick to respond to any questions we had along the way as well. Overall, we had a great stay and highly endorse Geoff and RealNZ for anyone planning a bespoke trip to NZ."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list

Generous cancellation

More
The Beautiful Blue Danube
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
4.5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
River Cruise
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Flexible schedule

Visits

Bratislava, Budapest, Passau

Highlights

  • CRUISE HIGHLIGHTS Tour the major capital cities along the Danube
  • Bask in the idyllic landscapes of the Wachau Valley
  • EXCURSIONS INCLUDED: Imperial Vienna and Schoenbrunn Palace, the former summer residence for the Hapsburg monarchs, with splendid gardens and lavish rooms
  • Budapest, 2000 years of history

Themes

50 plus, Eco, Sustainable & Green Travel, Family Friendly, Small Ship Cruise

What travelers are saying

"Summary over a cruise on the Haute Seine and Yonne on a barge. As seasoned cruisers, knowing well all aspects of cruising on seas and rivers, we had no experience about traveling on a barge in a canal. It was also time to overcome this lack. A number of companies offer this kind of cruising on barge with 8 to 16 passengers, however very often at exorbitant prices. Luckily, we discovered that the company CroisiEurope offers one week cruise on various canals in Europe, at very decent price, especially considering that all is inclusive (full board, all alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks and all excursions) on modern barges with a maximum of 22 passengers. We opted for the barge Ms Deborah, which cruises on the canal de la Loire, with the Briare to Nevers’ route. We were looking forward to this itinerary because the proposed excursions particularly suited us. Unfortunately, only a few days before departure, we were informed that due of a lack of water in the Loire canal the Ms Deborah was switched over to the Haute Seine and Yonne for a new itinerary from Paris to Sens. Despites the fact that this new itinerary didn’t really meet our desires, especially the excursions, we decided to accept the change. Our group of 6 persons from Switzerland was very warmly greeted by all members of the crew when arriving on the quai de Grenelle in Paris where we see the MS DEBORAH for the first time, our floating home for the week. With its two dominating colours blue and white, it is difficult not to fall in love with this beautiful small ship. We were invited immediately for the welcome cocktail during which we met officially the crew and the other six individual passengers originating from New Zealand, England and the USA. With less time than it needs to tell, the relation between us was created, so that everyone felt part of a bunch of friends knowing each other for long time. There is no need to present here the MS Deborah itself, as this is already thoroughly done on the Cruise Critic page. The crew of 6 persons is composed of a captain, a sailor, a cruise director, a chef, a waitress and a cabin hostess who put all their efforts to satisfy the passengers and offer them the best possible service. The captain as well as the sailor are always trying to make passengers at ease, answer questions or even bring a drink. The lady cruise director is omnipresent, taking care of the passengers better than a mother hen would do. The talented young French chef aims to produce dishes which please everybody. His outstanding sauces and excellent desserts should be particularly praised. However, referring to comments we made during a cruise on the Seine Princess two years ago, we cannot understand that why today it is not possible to offer the choice of a light buffet at lunch instead a three or even four course menu! The always smiling and friendly Hungarian waitress was very caring and attentive, without forgetting the cabin hostess doing a great job in the cabins, the public spaces and even the kitchen. It wouldn’t be fair to name a single person as all members of the crew, without any exception, do all they can to make the cruise unforgettable. Our one-week cruise on the barge Ms Deborah enables us today to make the following comments: ~ a cruise on a barge cannot be compared to any other kind of cruise ~ despite all the comfort offered on modern barge, one must be very aware that life on board happens at a restraint space, requiring therefore much flexibility and understanding in all aspects from all passengers ~ in our case, being only 12 passengers, we had the opportunity to take our meals on the terrace. We also never had the feeling that the boat was overcrowded. This can be different when the ship is full, especially by bad weather ~ the state of mind between the passengers who are mostly of foreign nationalities, who don’t know each other and don’t speak French, must function well right from the beginning ~ if the interrelation works, it is difficult to find a more relaxing and enjoyable way of travelling ~ the success on a barge is mainly due on the quality of its crew. Ms Deborah’s crew members have quickly created a family spirit on board, showing also that they genuinely like what they do ~ excursions can play a major role in choosing an itinerary. Not speaking French or English can be a handicap Do we recommend to do a cruise on a barge? Yes, definitively! It’s affordable, the atmosphere on board is unique, the routes can be very interesting. In our case, this second try with CroisiEurope gives them a better note."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list

Health Safety

More
Cambodia To Vietnam By Waterway Deluxe Tour In 15 Days
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
4.9/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Private Guided
Why we love them
They focus on the details to ensure that their travelers get a great introduction to their home country of Vietnam.
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Angkor Wat, Cu Chi Tunnels, Ha Long Bay, Hanoi, Ho Chi Minh, Hoi An , Mekong Delta, Mekong River , Phnom Penh , Siem Reap

Highlights

  • Explore the wondrous ancient temples complex of Angkor Wat
  • Cross the border between Cambodia and Vietnam by speed boat
  • Take an overnight river cruise along the Mekong river
  • Immerse yourself in the beauty of Central Vietnam
  • Meet with a Vietnam war veteran and visit his tea plantation
Show more

Themes

Culinary & Wine, Cultural, Cycling & Biking, Local Immersion & Homestays, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing, Small Ship Cruise

What travelers are saying

"Our family had an amazing time with Realistic Asia’s package. The tour was very suitable for my family, which included children since we loved trekking. We enjoyed the stunning views, and the trek was at an easy pace for our kids. The tour guides and the staff are very professional and enthusiastic. I was very impressed with their attitude. We were very happy with the service and the places we have been to."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
More

Unlock Community Benefits

Travel better together

  • Save favorite trips and itineraries
  • Get insider insights
  • Receive personalized recommendations
  • ... and much more
Join community
Across Ohrid and Prespa
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
5/5 Excellent
29 reviews
Private Guided
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Tirana

Highlights

  • Ohrid Lake
  • North Macedonia
  • Northern Greece and Albania

Themes

Climbing & Mountaineering, Nature & Wildlife, Sailing

What travelers are saying

"Although not a master in skiing this tour met all my expectations for a great holiday in Montenegro. Not only snow but also interior pools."

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
More
Treasures of Indochina 15 Days - Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, Laos
Save this trip to your favorites or other list
By PrestiGo Asia
Local Expert
Verified by Travelstride as locally operated and in the top of their field for customer reviews, local knowledge, and safety.
5/5 Excellent
60 reviews
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Angkor Wat, Bangkok, Cu Chi Tunnels, Ha Long Bay, Hanoi, Hoa Lu, Ho Chi Minh, Luang Prabang, Mekong Delta, Mekong River , Siem Reap, Tonle Sap Lake

Highlights

  • Experience the majestic Angkor Wat in Siem Reap, Cambodia
  • Marvel at the crystal-clear waters and limestone islands of Halong Bay
  • Visit Pak Ou Cave and witness the beauty of Kuangsi Waterfall in Laos
  • Explore top-rated temples and admire the largest Buddha statues in Bangkok, Thailand

Themes

Cultural, Family Friendly, High Adventure, Hiking & Walking, Local Immersion & Homestays, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing, Relaxing Retreats

What travelers are saying

"We tried many special foods, and visited many beautiful temples. The traffic was so bad, but we also did other fun things to explore Thailand and had a great time every day of our trip. Thanks to Alex and Prestigo Asia for making it all happen!"

Trip dates & details
Save this trip to your favorites or other list

Health Safety

More
Travelstride Gift Card
One card, thousands of extraordinary trips
Gifts Card

Want a tailor-made trip instead?

Your trip, your way, planned by an expert:

  • You choose budget, destinations, activities, transport & lodging type
  • Expert designs the itinerary for you, and once approved, takes care of logistics
Design custom trip
489 trips exactly matchall of the the filters you selected.
My selections:
Easy
...

1

2

3

4

5

...

River Cruises Reviews & Ratings

4.8/5  Excellent
392  Reviews
See all River Cruises tour reviews
Excellent
75
Great
11
Average
1
Disappointing
0
Terrible
1
A

Australian Traveller

Feb 2020

Written on

Excellent tour of Cambodia

We enjoyed a week's tour of Cambodia (Siem Reap - Battambang - Phnon Penh) with Odynovo, with many attractions and activities included. It was easy to book online, a...

K

Kaeleigh

Mar 2022

More authentic experience than I would have booked on my own....

I had always been hesitant to try a group tour, because they seemed so stuffy and restricting. I like to do things off the beaten trail when I travel, and I try as b...

T

Tonita

Mar 2024

Written on

Awesome Philippine Adventure

Charlie provided incredible guides with great knowledge, stories and expertis...

R

Russel

Oct 2022

Written on

Emphasized the beauty of these island

I went with this company for many reasons, but the biggest reason was the reviews online. Everyone that has taken this tour to Bohol and Cebu, along with every other...

K

Kimberley

Oct 2022

Written on

This trip had the right amount of relaxing and adventurous activities

My friend’s family is from Bohol and she was going to go visit them. She asked if I wanted to join, and of course I did! We planned to go for two weeks, but we wante...

Write a Review

River Cruises Tour Selection Trips

  • Find the right cabin: If you value space, look for cabins that are at least 170 square feet in size.
  • Read the fine print to check what’s included: To judge the best value as opposed to just the lowest price, watch for how many “extras” are included in the base rate – such as port excursions, alcohol, balcony cabins and even free international airfare – that could add considerably to the cost if purchased separately.  
  • Avoid unnecessary expense: You could easily find yourself paying premium prices for luxuries that you might not be interested in: butler service, for example, or unlimited top-brand spirits, or crystal chandeliers in the lobby.  
  • Evaluate the shore excursions: The quality of port excursions (which may or may not be included in the base price) is especially crucial on river cruises, since you’ll be spending more time on shore than you do on ocean-going vessels.
  • Check out the guides: Knowledgeable, personable guides – who speak good English – can add immeasurably to your enjoyment, as can well-planned side trips to nearby cities, towns, wineries, or historic sites.
  • Book as early as possible: If you don’t want to lose out on that balcony cabin you’ve been eyeing, or on some nice early-booking discounts, get your deposit down as soon as possible. Demand is outpacing supply in Europe, especially, so booking a year in advance is necessary on some lines.
  • Consider the clientele: Some cruise lines attract a wide-ranging international clientele, while others appeal mainly to Americans. Similarly, some river cruise lines market almost exclusively to ages 50 and up, while others also cater to younger passengers, including families.
  • Compare and contrast the itineraries: While many itineraries may appear similar for the same rivers, some lines may offer more time in port, some less, or offer a few different ports and side-trip options than their competitors.  
  • Review the dining options: On some ships, everyone eats at the same time in one dining room, while others offer several dining choices both as to venues – including alfresco dining -- and hours. Table size can vary, too.  
  • Weigh the costs of going solo: If you plan on traveling alone on your cruise, check into the cruise lines’ policies on charging for single supplements, and whether or not they will match you with a same-sex roommate if you’d like to avoid the extra charge.

Additional details

River cruising is an extremely popular mode of travel, especially among older travelers. It's perfect for a relaxing getaway that you can make as active or as laid back as you wish - participating in shore excursions, or simply staying on board watching the world go by from your balcony. 

Only unpack once, and enjoy the slow travel approach!

Classic River Cruise Destinations

Europe dominates when it comes to a “classic” river cruise experience. Sailing in luxury past forested banks, with castles and small villages poking out - enjoying fine european wines and in depth lectures aboard - this is the pinnacle vision of a classic European River Cruise.

Some of the most classic destinations for a European River Cruise include:

1. The Danube River - When most people think of a river cruise, they probably think of the Danube. Among the longest rivers in Europe, the “Beautiful Blue Danube” covers 10 countries and is one of them most popular river cruise destinations for seniors and baby boomers.

Danube River Cruises are either eastbound, typically beginning in Germany and ending in Prague or Budapest, or westbound - departing from Prague or Budapest and ending in Germany.

2. The Rhine RiverRather than flowing in an east-west direction, the Rhine is great for travelers interested in a north-south view of western Europe. Covering 6 countries, the Rhine will visit Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Austria, Germany, France, and the Netherlands, the Rhine.

3. The Douro RiverPortugal's Douro is a great destination for wine lovers, especially port wine. It’s one of the shorter rivers travelers can choose for a river cruise, covering the Iberian Peninsula. Douro River cruises are usually heavily weighted in Portugal, with a little bit of time in Spain.

Exotic and Adventurous River Cruise Destinations

1. The Nile River - The Nile River is a popular river cruise destination for adventurous travelers who love history and are more interested in interesting port stops and archaeological tours than a luxury travel experience. When you travel down the Nile, be prepared to be transported as you pass by ancient sites, learning about the mysteries of Egypt and the essential role the Nile has played over the centuries.

2. The Mekong River - Flowing through the heart of Vietnam, travelers who take a river cruise down the Mekong are treated to many classic Southeast Asian views. You’ll see beautiful green rice paddies, small villages, and mountainous terrain, as well as visit major cities and cultural sites.

3. The Amazon River - The Amazon is another kind of river cruise all together, great for young adventurous travelers and anyone wishing to expand their comfort zone. You’ll encounter plenty of unique wildlife, both on the water and on the shore, and have the opportunity to learn about the Amazon’s incredible biodiversity from knowledgeable local guides.

Always Find the Best

On Travelstride you can find 815 trips to River Cruises and more than 20,000 trips worldwide ranging from budget to luxury and private guided to group tours and everything in between. Only on Stride can you find and compare expert-planned trips from 1,000+ tour operators, cruise lines and local experts. Read traveler and professional reviews so you can confidently find your perfect trip.

Top Tour Companies on Travelstride:
All 1,600+ companies >
Sign in to reveal savings up to $700 per person!