Curious about river cruising? I just sailed with AmaWaterways through the Netherlands and Belgium—here’s what I loved, what surprised me, and why I’d absolutely do it again.

Dreaming of a European river cruise? Dive into this guide to discover the best rivers, top activities, and tips for the ultimate scenic journey through Europe’s iconic landscapes.

In Central and Eastern Europe, you’ll find some of the most spectacular landscapes, architecture—castles, churches and war memorials—as well as some of the most colorful, inviting cultures in the world. But what’s the best way to see it all?