5 fabulous European river ports
Float in the lap of luxury on a European river cruise, surrounded by cathedral-dotted medieval towns, palaces from the Middle Ages and breathtaking natural beauty.
Modern cruise ships have it all – world-class dining, plush sun decks, oh-so-relaxing wellness facilities and so much more. You could be forgiven for staying on board permanently. But if you’re after some day trips along the way, here are five picture-perfect European river ports to explore.
1. Budapest
Hungary’s gorgeous capital city, split by the River Danube, is packed with art nouveau and neo-Gothic buildings, rooftop bars and thermal spas fed by warm natural springs. Budapest sits atop a vast network of hydrothermal caves, so head underground for an eerie, spotlit cave walk among the natural gypsum and aragonite crystals. On the Buda side of Budapest, you’ll find the Castle District, home to the former Royal Palace and the Hospital in the Rock Museum which features wax figures and original medical equipment. Don’t forget to hop on Tram 2 which travels alongside the Danube past many city sights.
2. Vienna
Vienna, Austria’s capital, also sits on the Danube. Famous for its links to Mozart, Beethoven and other renowned classical musicians, Vienna has a huge collection of Gustav Klimt artworks at the Belvedere Museum. The magnificent Schönbrunn Palace is Vienna’s most-visited attraction, and it’s worth battling the crowds to see the 45 stunning staterooms, ceremonial halls and palace fountains of the summer Habsburg residence. Vienna also has a renowned coffee culture with special blends at Kaffeemilk and Dr Sigmund Freud’s former haunt and tourist favourite, Café Central.
3. Nuremberg
Bygone political rallies and trials aside, there’s so much more to Bavaria’s second-largest city. Nuremberg was established in the 11th century and was home to the King of Germany, Konrad III, from 1137 until 1152. These days, this walkable and inviting city features fascinating museums, quaint half-timber houses and its staple snack, the Nuremberg rostbratwurst. These thin pork sausages are delicious with sauerkraut and mustard. Don’t miss exploring the grounds of the famous and impressive Imperial Castle (Kaiserburg), which dominates the city skyline.
4. Rüdesheim
What it lacks in size, this town has in sheer beauty. In Rüdesheim, you’ll find spectacular views of the Rhine after you’ve climbed the stone steps to the Niederwald Monument. This landmark commemorates the unification of the German Empire in 1871 after the Franco-Prussian War. Rüdesheim lies in Germany’s Rhine Valley and if you like wine – particularly Riesling – you’re in the right place. Try a glass of Sekt – a German sparkling wine – in a traditional olde worlde German wine tavern for something different.
5. Amsterdam
If canals, bicycles and tulips spring to mind when you think of the Dutch capital, you’d be right. But that’s just the start. With its architecture, museums, theatre, music and dining scene, Amsterdam is one of Europe’s hippest yet most charming cities. Visit the Van Gogh Museum, which exhibits more than 200 canvases and 500 drawings from one of the world’s best-known artists. Learn about the tragic story of Anne Frank at Anne Frank Huis, where the Dutch teenager and her family hid from the Nazis for more than two years.
Experience this and more with APT
Book your place on the luxury ships APT Solara or APT Ostara on the 2025 all-inclusive Magnificent Europe river cruise from Budapest to Amsterdam (or reverse). Unpack once, then sit back and enjoy 15 days cruising the majestic Main, Rhine and Danube rivers and visiting postcard-perfect ports.
Cruise Europe’s rivers in luxury
Want to book your place on the 2025 APT Magnificent Europe river cruise?