Trafalgar’s Rhine & Danube Itineraries for 2026: The Ultimate European River Cruise, All You Need To Know

Trafalgar and Uniworld, their sister brand, created their 2026 European river cruise itineraries which offer travellers a close cultural experience of Europe’s main rivers, the Rhine and the Danube. The river cruises operate from European cities and scenic areas to offer guests a complete European experience through their luxury services and deep cultural exploration.
For 2026, Trafalgar is introducing two signature river cruise routes: Best of the Rhine and Amsterdam and Best of the Danube. Each of these curated journeys promises a mix of exploration, culture, and adventure, ensuring that every traveller experiences Europe in a way that is both enriching and memorable.
Best of the Rhine & Amsterdam: A Journey Through Four Countries
The Best of the Rhine and Amsterdam cruise spans 10 days, taking passengers between Amsterdam in the Netherlands and Basel in Switzerland. This itinerary takes travellers through eight destinations across four countries, showcasing the best of the Rhine River.
Key highlights of the route include:
- A canal cruise in Amsterdam, offering an iconic view of the city’s historic waterways.
- A visit to the Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its stunning Gothic architecture.
- A guided tour of Strasbourg’s Old Town, where medieval buildings line the streets, making it a step back in time.
- A visit to the charming town of Koblenz, nestled at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers.
Prices for this cruise begin at $3,599 USD, offering an all-inclusive experience with meals, regional wine and beer, and guided excursions. This route is perfect for those looking to experience the beauty of northern Europe and its captivating cultures.
Best of the Danube: A Scenic Journey Between Budapest and Passau
The Best of the Danube offers an eight-day journey between Budapest and Passau, taking passengers through six destinations across four countries. The Danube River, Europe’s second-longest river, is known for its rich history, cultural significance, and natural beauty, and this itinerary allows guests to experience it at its best.
The highlights of this itinerary include:
- A guided tour of Budapest’s Heroes’ Square, where guests can learn about Hungary’s historic past.
- A visit to Bratislava’s Old Town, a quaint and charming city that retains much of its medieval character.
- A chance to indulge in a traditional Viennese Sachertorte tasting in Vienna, one of Europe’s most famous culinary traditions.
With prices starting at 2,799 USD, the Best of the Danube cruise also includes all meals, local wines, and daily excursions, making it an excellent option for travellers who wish to experience the heart of Central Europe in comfort and style.
Seasonal Christmas Market Sailings
For those who want to experience Europe’s famous Christmas markets, Trafalgar offers seasonal sailings on both the Rhine and Danube rivers. These festive cruises allow guests to explore the enchanting Christmas markets that dot Europe during the holiday season. From Basel’s Christmas markets to the renowned Nuremberg Christmas market in Germany, these sailings offer a perfect blend of festive cheer, historical sites, and warm European hospitality.
These special seasonal cruises are a wonderful option for those looking to enjoy the magic of the holidays in Europe while cruising along its most famous rivers.
Curated Land Extensions: Enhance Your River Cruise Experience
Trafalgar’s 2026 river cruise itineraries are designed to offer an enriching and well-rounded experience. For those who want to explore more of Europe, Trafalgar offers land extensions to key cities along the route.
- Rhine River travellers can extend their cruise with two nights in Lucerne, a picturesque Swiss town known for its medieval architecture and stunning mountain scenery.
- Danube River passengers can opt for two nights in Prague or additional time in Budapest, providing more opportunities to discover these iconic cities at your own pace.
These land add-ons allow guests to further personalise their experience, ensuring that they get the most out of their European holiday.
Luxury and Comfort on Trafalgar’s River Cruise Ships
Trafalgar’s new river cruises will be sailed aboard the luxurious Trafalgar Verity on the Rhine and the Trafalgar Reverie on the Danube. These ships are designed to provide the ultimate in comfort, combining the feel of a floating boutique hotel with the intimacy of a small ship.
Guests can enjoy spacious rooms, sun decks, and lounges, all while enjoying the convenience of an all-inclusive experience. Every day, the ship docks at a new port, offering an opportunity for new cultural excursions, guided tours, and authentic regional experiences.
Discover Europe with Trafalgar’s River Cruises
Trafalgar’s 2026 European river cruise itineraries offer an unforgettable journey through Europe’s most iconic destinations. Whether cruising along the Rhine River or the Danube, these thoughtfully designed itineraries offer a blend of culture, history, and scenic beauty.
The river cruises of Trafalgar provide travelers with the ultimate European experience because they combine luxurious accommodations and complete meal service with authentic local activities. The cruises provide multiple options because they allow passengers to experience both Christmas markets and historical city attractions.
The post Trafalgar’s Rhine & Danube Itineraries for 2026: The Ultimate European River Cruise, All You Need To Know appeared first on Travel And Tour World.


