Elbe River cruises

Prague isn’t on the Elbe, but it’s often the starting or ending point of Elbe River itineraries, reached via overland transfer from Mělník.Known as the “City of a Hundred Spires”, Prague is one of Europe’s most beautiful capitals, with a medieval heart that’s made for wandering. The Old Town is a maze of winding alleys, baroque churches and ornate façades. Don’t miss the astronomical clock on the Old Town Hall, or the Gothic Charles Bridge – lined with statues and musicians – which links to the historic castle district. A popular excursion is a guided walk ending with panoramic views from Prague CastleMany cruises include a hotel night here, giving time to enjoy the café culture, riverside beer gardens and the city’s famously atmospheric evenings.

Though small, Mělník has a rich history and offers scenic views across the river valley from its hilltop centre.The town is known for its winemaking heritage, especially white wines made from Müller-Thurgau grapes. Some excursions include tastings in the cellars beneath Mělník Chateau, once home to Czech royalty. You can also stroll through the chateau gardens and enjoy views where the two rivers meet.It’s a gentle introduction to the Elbe region, combining local charm with a strong connection to the Czech capital, which sits up.

Litoměřice offers colourful baroque architecture and a striking cathedral at its centre. The old town square is ringed with cafés and elegant buildings, perfect for a leisurely walk.A short drive away is Terezín (Theresienstadt), a former military fortress turned World War II ghetto and concentration camp. Many excursions focus on the site’s sobering history, with visits to the museum and memorial areas.Back in town, you might visit the 11th-century St Stephen’s Cathedral or relax in one of the local wine cellars. The area is part of Bohemia’s small but historic wine-growing region.

Once known as the “Florence on the Elbe”, Dresden is a city of grandeur and resilience. Devastated during WWII, its historic centre has been rebuilt, with standout landmarks like the Frauenkirche and the Zwinger Palace restored to their former glory.Cruise excursions often include walking tours of the Altstadt, where you’ll see the Semper Opera House, the Royal Palace and the mural of the Procession of Princes. Art lovers can head to the Old Masters Gallery, home to works by Raphael, Vermeer and Rembrandt.The Elbe runs right through the heart of Dresden, so you can enjoy the view even while on board.

Meissen is a picturesque town with cobbled streets, red-roofed houses and a long history of craftsmanship. The porcelain manufactory has been producing high-end ceramics since 1710 and is still open for tours and demonstrations.Many excursions begin with a visit to the factory and museum, followed by time in the old town. Don’t miss the Gothic Meissen Cathedral and Albrechtsburg Castle, perched dramatically above the Elbe.It’s a compact stop, but rich in detail – a great place to pick up souvenirs and learn more about Saxony’s artistic heritage.

Emerald Cruises offers a modern, relaxed, super-premium all-inclusive cruising experience, with contemporary and elegant ships and bucket-list destinations. Onboard, guests are able to dine at four all-inclusive and unique outlets, enjoying free-flowing alcoholic beverages at mealtimes. Flexibility is key, with its range of shore excursion packages, and every aspect of the trip is taken care of – including flights and transfers.

Known for its river cruises, CroisiEurope also offers ocean voyages on two small ships. Guests boarding the 130-passenger La Belle des Oceans (formerly Silversea's Silver Discoverer) can follow in Napoleon's footsteps, visit the hilltop villages of Balagne, and enjoy dinner at a traditional inn. Meanwhile, the 197-guest La Belle de l'Adriatique offers itineraries that take in local traditions.

Viking is the largest river cruise line operators in the world, with a fleet of 76 ships running sailings across four continents on an army of award-winning ships. The river arm of Viking is just one of Viking's cruise options, the super-premium Norwegian ocean cruise line known for its superlative cruise experience, small ships with Scandi-chic interiors and fantastic destination and cultural enrichment programme. On the river, Viking offers cruisers the chance to sail in Europe, Asia, Africa and the US, offering facilities like sundeck swimming pools, relaxing Aquavit terraces and well-stocked libraries. Continually making new additions and expanding, Viking has recently upped its Nile river cruise game with two new ships, and also sails the Mississippi river. The cruise line also champions themed cruises, taking passengers to the likes of the Passion Play at Oberammergau and offering exclusive pre-and post-cruise land tours.

Uniworld is one of the most luxurious river cruise lines in existence, operating a fleet of 13 unique, opulent and lavish six-star river ships. The company was founded in 1976, becoming part of the Travel Corporation in 2004 – a group which also includes luxurious Red Carnation Hotel. The cruise line operates on the waters of Europe, Arica and Asia, and each Uniworld ship is inspired by its destination.

Austrian-owned Amadeus has been going for more than 30 years, recognised as one of the oldest providers in Europe, and one of the most established and reliable river cruise lines. It's the Rolls-Royce of river cruising. Originally for the German-speaking market, the cruise line has branched into international cruising, along with a revamp of its fleet and the launch of a handful of new ships – like Amadeus Imperial.

Scenic River Cruises is one of the most luxurious cruise operators in the world. It’s the cruise line behind the innovative and super luxurious yacht-style ship Scenic Eclipse, a ship that revolutionised the cruise industry when it launched. That same level of luxury can be had on its fleet of river ships. The cruise line offers an all-inclusive experience, featuring amenities like spas, terraces, panorama lounges and spacious cabins with private butlers.

Tauck is a super-premium river cruise line offering small, intimate sailings on the waterways of Europe. The cruise line launched in 1992, offering luxurious and all-inclusive river cruises on the likes of the Danube, Rhine and Rhone. With many awards under its belt, the cruise line owns it when it comes to European river cruising, heading away from crowded tourist hotspots and off the beaten track.