Why Summer is the Perfect Season for River Cruising

Posted on by Kenneth Reece, Agent of Modern Travel Professionals

Summer in Europe is a season of unforgettable moments—vibrant festivals, sun-kissed landscapes, and the perfect opportunity for relaxed exploration. If you’re dreaming of a hassle-free way to experience the best of Europe’s rivers, there’s no better time than summer to set sail with Avalon Waterways. With enriching experiences, breathtaking scenery, and unbeatable value, summer river cruising is an adventure waiting to happen. Here’s why:

  1. Quieter Cities

While summer is a peak travel season, many Europeans take their vacations along the coast in July and August, leaving iconic cities like Paris, Vienna, and Budapest pleasantly quieter. This means fewer crowds at museums, historic sites, and cafés, allowing you to explore at a relaxed pace and soak in the atmosphere without the usual hustle and bustle.

  1. Airfare Deals

Contrary to popular belief, summer can be an excellent time to find airfare deals to Europe. Some summer sailings coincide with promotional airfare rates, making your dream river cruise even more accessible. With a bit of planning, you can take advantage of lower flight prices and maximize your travel budget.

  1. Mild Summer Temperatures

Europe’s river cruise destinations offer comfortable temperatures, often in the 70s and 80s. Unlike the scorching heat of Mediterranean beach destinations, river regions provide a more pleasant climate for exploring castles, strolling through vineyards, and wandering through charming old towns.

  1. Perfect for Families & Multi-Generational Travel

Summer is ideal for families and multi-generational trips. Avalon Waterways’ Active & Discovery itineraries cater to travelers of all ages, making it a great option for families with teens or older children (minimum age 8). With school out, summer is the perfect time to embark on an enriching journey together, creating memories that will last a lifetime.

  1. Seasonal Beauty & Fresh Produce

Imagine sailing past endless fields of blooming lavender in Provence or golden sunflower fields in Burgundy. Summer brings Europe’s landscapes to life, making your cruise even more picturesque. Plus, local markets are bursting with fresh seasonal produce, allowing you to savor farm-to-table flavors, from ripe berries to artisan cheeses.

  1. Ideal for Active Exploration

For those who love outdoor activities, summer river cruises offer unparalleled opportunities for biking, hiking, and immersive experiences. Whether it’s cycling through the Wachau Valley in Austria, hiking to hilltop fortresses, or kayaking on the Danube, the long daylight hours provide plenty of time for adventure.

  1. Cultural Delights

Summer is festival season in Europe! From classical music performances in Vienna to lively wine festivals along the Rhine, open-air markets, and seasonal celebrations, summer offers a wealth of cultural experiences that bring each destination to life. These special events add an extra layer of excitement to your journey.

  1. Unforgettable Scenery

Sun-drenched vineyards, castle-dotted landscapes, and charming riverside villages—summer unveils Europe’s beauty in a way that’s simply magical. The longer daylight hours mean you can soak in breathtaking scenery from the comfort of your ship, whether sipping wine on the sun deck or enjoying a leisurely breakfast as the world drifts by.

Set Sail This Summer

A summer river cruise with Avalon Waterways offers the perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with family, summer provides the ideal backdrop for a journey filled with unforgettable experiences.

Ready to plan your perfect river cruise? Let’s find the itinerary that’s right for you!

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Published by Kenneth Reece, Agent of Modern Travel Professionals

Hi, I’m Kenneth Reece — and I help make unforgettable vacations feel effortless. With 50 cruises under my belt (and more in the works!), I specialize in bucket-list travel experiences for grown-up travelers who want something a little more meaningful, a little more personal, and a lot more fun. Whether you're cruising the blue waters of the Caribbean, exploring the stunning coastlines of Alaska, or soaking in the magic of Europe one cobblestone street at a time — I’m here to help you plan a trip you’ll always remember. Lately, river cruising has completely captured my heart. There’s just something special about waking up each morning in a new European town, with your floating boutique hotel waiting to take you to the next charming stop. I love pairing these river cruises with guided land tours for a perfect balance of sightseeing and relaxation. Princess Cruises has long been one of my favorites at sea, but I’ve sailed with many cruise lines and know how to match each client with the right one for them. I’ve also experienced the Disney magic around the world — from Disneyland and Walt Disney World to Tokyo and Paris — and I bring that same sense of wonder and thoughtful planning into everything I do. Whether you're celebrating a milestone, traveling solo, or just need help making sense of all the choices out there, I’m here to be your guide. I love helping clients as much — or as little — as they prefer. From the first conversation to the moment you return home, you’ll know someone has your back. Let’s make your next trip easy, exciting, and completely tailored to you.