Travelling across a large continent like Europe can be undertaken on a river cruise along its major rivers that encompasses several countries in a single route
Travelling across a large continent like Europe can be undertaken on a river cruise that encompasses several countries in a single route. There are about over 150 trans-boundary rivers in this region. And these are Its five major lengthy waterways.
Volga
Half of Russia's river-cargo is transported through the Volga which at 3691.8 kilometres (2,294 miles), is the longest river in Europe and the 16th lengthiest in the world.
Originating from the remote Valdai Hills and running up to the Caspian Sea, this water body irrigates the steppe regions of southern Russia.
This river was instrumental in the movement of people from Asia to Europe as well as from the south and the north. Because of its importance in the country, the Volga has mythological status in Russia, and many iconic sites are found along its banks. Because of its importance it enjoys a mythical status in the Russian region, with mini iconic sites peppering its banks. Travellers can best enjoy this river from March till mid-December when the weather there is warm.
Danube
Coasting 2864.6 km (1,780 miles) through ten countries — Germany, Hungary, Serbia, Croatia, Austria, Slovakia, Romania, Moldova, Ukraine and Bulgaria, Danube, the second-longest river in Europe, kisses the cities like Vienna and Budapest, Cologne, Budapest, Nuremberg, Belgrade, Krems, among others, along its flow.
Rhine
Endearingly known as 'Old Father Rhine', this river which starts its journey from Switzerland, travels to Rotterdam in The Netherlands and culminates in the North Sea. In the course of its 1232.7 kilometres (766 miles) journey, it traverses six countries, gliding past vineyards, cliff-side castles, and scenic cities like Strasbourg and Cologne.
Elbe
Linking popular destinations like Dresden and Prague, Elbe, which once formed the border between East and West Germany, now flows through both Germany and the Czech Republic. Cruising along this river, which is near Berlin, one will also arrive at lesser known spots like the Wittenberg and Meissen.
Loire
Dividing France down the middle, the river Loire, flows 1006 kilometres (635 miles) from east to west. Beginning at the famed Loire Valley in an area well-known for its vineyards and historical towns, it is easily accessible from Paris. Along with the river, the valley region is also renowned for its many castles, including Chenonceau and Chambord and a fantasy spot, Amboise, a charming town built on the foundations of an old fortress.
Some Others
Besides the above the Seine, or Po, Italy's longest river, the Oder River stretching across the Czech Republic and Poland, are also impressive. There's Don and the Dnieper in Russia and The Rhone in France, too.
