13 Best River Cruise Itineraries to Book in 2025

05.12.2024 - 23:33 / cntraveler.com / Lake Titicaca

The best river cruises have always had a certain mystique that draws travelers from far and wide—even those who are new to cruising. For history buffs, they could be an excellent way to visit ancient sites or historical landmarks. For those that love the outdoors, river sailings are a way to experience the natural landscape of popular destinations that you might otherwise not get to see. With limited space onboard, river cruises often book up well in advance—so consider booking these once-in-a-lifetime voyages as early as you can.

Here, we’ve highlighted 13 of the most exciting river cruise itineraries to book for 2025 and 2026. From Amazonian expeditions to kid-friendly European voyages, these cruises have something for every kind of traveler.

This article has been updated with new information since its original publication date.

Kensington Tours really gives guests a moment to stop and smell the flowers on this river cruise. The 11-night Holland River sailing stops in Keukenhof, where travelers can spend the entire day exploring 70 acres of lush parkland, lakes, and the world’s largest flower gardens (more than 7 million tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths, as well as other bulbs, are planted here each year). The next few days on the itinerary include stops in Antwerp, Ghent, Bruges, and Amsterdam. From exploring 16th-century cathedrals to indulging in world-famous Belgian waffles and crepes, there is plenty to do in every port along the way.

One of Rivera River Cruises' most popular itineraries is the Rhine Cruise to Switzerland, where travelers who are interested in breathtaking sceneries and specially-curated menu pairings will get their fill of both. From superb Swiss mountain cheeses to decadent Alsace wine, guests will be have the chance to meet local artisans who are passionate about the production of the country's most notable—and some lesser-known—delicacies.

With this two-part adventure, cruise-goers will not only be able to explore the alluring beauty of the Peruvian Amazon and Lake Titicaca, they'll also be able to traverse the Andean Plateau on one of the world’s highest rail routes aboard the Andean Explorer, South America’s only luxury sleeper train. As for the cruise portion of the journey, travelers will embark on the Pure Amazon, a brand new boutique riverboat, for a three-night cruise through the Amazon Basin. Guests should look forward to a number water excursions and getting a chance to observe wildlife up close: kayaking, swimming, fishing, and birdwatching are just a few of the options on this voyage.

Along with visits to bustling cities like Phnom Penh and Ho Chi Minh City, Aqua Expeditions' Mekong River cruises also visits serene ports in the countryside. Imagine kayaking to