When most people think of a European river cruise, they picture a week-long journey along the Danube or the Rhine. But for travelers who want to go beyond the ordinary, some river cruises stretch for weeks—offering the chance to experience the heart of Europe at a leisurely pace. These epic itineraries take you through multiple countries, centuries of history, and some of the most scenic waterways in the world.
At Scott & Thomas, we specialize in curating these extended river journeys, pairing you with exclusive rates and the concierge support that makes such a trip effortless from start to finish. Here are some of the most remarkable and longest river cruise in Europe.
AmaWaterways – Seven River Journey (46–49 Nights)
AmaWaterways has redefined the idea of a “grand tour.” Their Seven River Journey is currently one of the longest river cruises in the world, spanning between 46 and 49 nights depending on the sailing. You’ll cover iconic waterways including the Seine, Rhône, Rhine, Main, Moselle, and Danube, visiting more than a dozen countries in one seamless voyage.
Highlights include:
- Visits to UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
- More than 100 guided excursions led by expert local guides.
- Luxury amenities such as wellness programs, fine dining, and laundry included.
This itinerary is a dream for travelers who want to see all of Europe without packing and unpacking multiple times.
Viking – European Sojourn (23 Nights)
Viking’s European Sojourn proves that “long cruise” doesn’t have to mean overwhelming. Over the course of 23 days, you’ll sail from Amsterdam to Bucharest, traveling the length of the Rhine, Main, and Danube.
This voyage includes:
- Stops in eight different countries.
- Daily tours, from medieval castles in Germany to the vibrant streets of Budapest.
- A relaxed pace that balances sightseeing with time onboard to enjoy Viking’s comfortable ships.
For those seeking an extended trip that feels both immersive and manageable, this cruise is an excellent fit.
Uniworld – Rivers of the World (46 Nights)
For a blend of Europe and beyond, Uniworld’s Rivers of the World cruise is truly global. Over 46 nights, you’ll sail across two continents on multiple luxury river vessels. Starting with the Nile in Egypt, the journey continues through Italy, France, Central Europe, and concludes on Portugal’s Douro River.
Uniworld is known for boutique-style cruising—lavish décor, gourmet dining, and intimate ships. With their cross-continental itinerary, this is an unmatched experience for travelers wanting diversity and depth.
Avalon Waterways – North Sea to Black Sea (24 Days)
Avalon’s North Sea to Black Sea journey is another extended classic. Over 24 days, you’ll sail from Amsterdam to Bucharest, crossing the entire continent by river. Along the way, you’ll pass through Hungary, Austria, Germany, Slovakia, and Romania, while enjoying Avalon’s signature Panorama Suites with floor-to-ceiling views.
This cruise appeals to travelers who want a true east-to-west adventure across Europe, complete with cultural immersion and scenic riverbanks.
Why Consider a Long River Cruise?
Extended river cruises aren’t just about the number of days—they’re about the experience:
- Unpack once, see everything. Instead of multiple flights and hotel stays, a long river cruise takes you from city to city in comfort.
- Deeper cultural connection. With weeks to explore, you can truly absorb Europe’s history, food, and traditions.
- Exclusive access. Many long itineraries include special events, private tours, and behind-the-scenes experiences.
- Ease and luxury. With concierge services from Scott & Thomas, every detail—from pre-trip planning to excursions—is handled for you.
Turning Dreams Into Journeys
If you’re ready for an extraordinary European journey, the longest river cruises offer something unmatched: the chance to watch the continent unfold mile by mile. Whether it’s AmaWaterways’ sweeping Seven River Journey, Viking’s elegant European Sojourn, or Uniworld’s globe-spanning adventure, these itineraries are more than vacations—they’re life experiences.
At Scott & Thomas, we can tailor these trips to your preferences, ensuring you have the right ship, the right excursions, and the luxury touches that turn a long journey into a once-in-a-lifetime memory.
