Trafalgar River Cruises

Planning your first river cruise? These handy tips will help you make the most of every moment on board and ashore: 

• Pack light layers: Even in summer, river breezes can be cool on deck. 
• Stay flexible: Trafalgar itineraries include optional experiences, giving you the freedom to explore independently or relax onboard. 
• Bring comfortable shoes: Many towns are best discovered on foot with cobbled streets and historic lanes. 
• Consider extending your trip: Add a city stay before or after your cruise – Pentravel can arrange hotels, flights, and transfers. 
• Stay connected: Wi-Fi is generally available on river cruises, but signal strength can vary in remote stretches – download maps or guides beforehand. 
• Local currency: While major cards are accepted, smaller towns on your river cruise itineraries may prefer cash. 
• Balance excursions with downtime: Don’t feel pressured to do every activity. Sometimes the best view is simply from the deck on a scenic river cruise. 
• Join the Be My Guest experiences: These signature Trafalgar moments with locals are often the highlights of the trip. 
• Camera ready: Castles, vineyards, and riverside villages appear quickly – keep your phone charged or camera handy on deck. 
• Ask your Experience Director: They’re a wealth of insider tips for meals, shortcuts, and photo spots in each port. 
• Hydrate and pace yourself: With daily excursions, onboard dining, and plenty of sightseeing, keeping your energy up ensures you’ll enjoy the whole journey. 

Let a Pentravel travel expert tailor your holiday with flights, accommodation, and extras for a seamless trip. 

Curious about scenic river cruises? We’ve answered some of the most popular questions to help you plan your perfect holiday. 

Q: Is Trafalgar good for seniors? 

A: Yes, Trafalgar is an excellent choice for seniors. With relaxed pacing, expert Experience Managers, and plenty of included activities, you can enjoy Europe at your own comfort level. 

Q: Which river cruise in Europe is the best? 

A: Many travellers consider the Rhine River cruise and Danube itineraries among the best river cruises in Europe. Both offer historic cities, fairy-tale landscapes, and cultural highlights. 

Q: What is the cheapest month to go on a cruise? 

A: River cruises are often most affordable in late autumn (November) and early spring (March–April), outside peak summer travel. 

Q: What is the best month for a river cruise in Europe? 

A: May through September offers warm weather and lively festivals, but spring and autumn mean fewer crowds and lower prices. 

Q: Is it worth getting a balcony on a river cruise? 

A: Absolutely. With castles, vineyards, and riverbanks rolling by, a balcony gives you a front-row seat to Europe’s landscapes. 

Q: Which river cruise is the best value for money? 

A: Trafalgar’s river cruises are designed to include meals, activities, and local experiences, making them some of the best-value options on the market. 

Q: Which side of the ship is best for a river cruise? 

A: There’s no “bad” side – scenery unfolds on both sides of the river. Your Experience Director will often point out highlights no matter where you’re seated. 

Q: Is it better to take a river cruise upstream or downstream? 

A: Both directions offer unique advantages. Upstream can mean more leisurely cruising, while downstream may allow for slightly more time in port. 

Q: Where is the best floor to be on a cruise ship? 

A: Mid-level decks offer easy access to facilities and great views, though upper decks provide the most panoramic perspectives. 

Q: Do cruises go through rough waters? 

A: Not on rivers. Riverboat cruises sail on calm waters, so seasickness isn’t an issue. 

Q: Does Trafalgar do river cruises? 

A: Yes – Trafalgar now offers curated river cruises in Europe with their signature hospitality, local connections, and expertly crafted itineraries. 

Ready to experience the best river cruises in Europe? Chat with a Pentravel agent today to book your Trafalgar river adventure with flights, transfers, and accommodation included.