The Best Time to Take a European River Cruise

The best time of year to take a river cruise in Europe? 

I get this question quite often.  The answer?  It really depends, on you, what your schedule allows combined with understanding advantages and disadvantages that each season brings.  

SPRING
Spring in Europe (March – May) can be chilly and rainy, especially early in the season.  Water levels could be high in places due to the spring melts.  The Rhine and Rhone rivers for example, both originate in the Swiss Alps and can be susceptible to this.

You may have new crew members who are still learning on beginning of season departures.  Good service – but it may not be as consistent as later in the season. 
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On the magical side, days are getting longer, crowds are still few and Mother Nature is “waking up” – trees and flowers are blooming, making for beautiful landscapes and gardens.  For example, April in the Danube’s Wachau Valley is spectacular when all of the apricot trees are in bloom.  Late March and April are when the tulips bloom in Holland’s Keukenhof Gardens - simply amazing.

SUMMER
Summer months, June – August, tend to be the most crowded – a popular travel time for many around the world.  These months are the warmest and can on occasion be downright hot. I was on the Rhone River in late June, early July and experienced 110+ degree weather.  These types of temperatures are unusual, but expect and be prepared for warmer weather.  Great for those who really don’t like anything cold.

Early June is a great time on the Rhone to see the lavender in bloom.
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While areas are more crowded, summer days are long, allowing for the most sightseeing and summer festivals abound. A big plus – no need to lug around heavy coats or extra layers.   

FALL
Days are getting shorter and chillier in the fall months, September – November, but the summer crowds are gone and Mother Nature turns on her colors.  The vineyards clinging to the sides of the hills along the rivers are exploding with brilliant yellow, red and orange hues – just beautiful. 
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Water levels tend to even out on most rivers, but some, for example the Mosel and Elbe, have a higher chance of low water levels, especially if it has been a warm summer. 

WINTER
Late November into December sailings are largely focused on the magical Christmas Markets.  One should expect colder temperatures.  Daylight is at its lowest which may affect some sightseeing opportunities but the itineraries are built around this and are largely focused on the markets. 
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Some lines are starting their season in February (versus March).  These dates are growing in interest – yes colder and shorter days but you get to experience a region in whole new way, so very different from other seasons that see more crowds.   

ANY SEASON
River levels are unpredictable during any season.  Mother Nature does her thing.  High snow melt and rain can cause water levels to be too high – but it’s a best guess in what month this begins.  Hot, dry weather can cause low levels of water making it difficult to pass through certain areas.  This too is a best guess.  Check out this short fun video from Tauck.

The water levels on rivers are constantly changing - by the hour.  Levels can be too high or too low at one time but a few hours later passable.  One must "go with the flow" as they say!
 
FARES
Early season (March to early April) and late season (November) will have the lowest fares.  Fares begin going up in mid-April into May and will start going down again in October.  May and September are popular departure dates and fares tend to be higher. 

I personally prefer to travel in the typical shoulder season – April, early May, late September and October, with fall being my favorite for all the above reasons – cooler, less crowded, the colors and more bang for your buck. 

However,  the optimum time for you to go on a river cruise is what meets your schedule, needs and wants the best.  I'm here to help you make the best decision.  
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