River cruising presents the opportunity for even the most amateur photographer to capture that ultimate shot. From the colorful, half-timbered houses of Strasbourg, France to the cosmopolitan buzz of Budapest, Hungary - and from the lavender fields of the Rhone River to the scenic vistas of the Rhine, a river cruise is sure to bring you in contact with some of the world’s best views. Here are 9 amazing places to photograph on your next river cruise!

Budapest, Hungary

Split into two distinctly different sections by the Danube River, Budapest is part of virtually all central and eastern European river cruise itineraries. From the imposing Buda Castle on the hillside Buda section, you can capture the bustling city by night. The Pest side of the river houses most of the hotels, river cruise docking sites and one of the world’s most amazing Parliament Houses. Connecting the two is the historic Chain Bridge - built in 1849 and the very first bridge over the Danube.

Chain Bridge & Buda Castle - Budapest, Hungary

Strasbourg, France

One of Europe’s most picture-perfect destinations, and the formal seat of the European Parliament, Strasbourg straddles the Rhine River along the French-German border. It’s Gothic Cathédrale Notre-Dame features daily shows from its astronomical clock and sweeping views of the Rhine from partway up its nearly 500-foot spire - but you may not have to leave street-level to capture more images than your memory card can handle..

Avignon, France

Residing on the southern end of the scenic Rhone River in France, Avignon was home to seven consecutive Popes from 1309-1376. While the historic city center in now a UNESCO World Heritage Site and full of scenic vistas, the most popular spot for shutterbugs may be a few miles away, during the summer bloom, in the lavender fields of Gordes.

Lavender fields of Abbaye Notre-Dame de Senanque - Avignon/Gordes, France

Amsterdam, Netherlands

The world-famous 17th century capital of the Netherlands is the gateway to the Rhine River. As such, you’ll have plenty of time before or after your river cruise to enjoy historic buildings, beautiful museums and pleasant ambiance. Go for a boat tour on the canals, stroll through Vondelpark, and explore your own version of retail therapy!. Amsterdam is a unique city - and one you’ll want to photograph from all angles.

Jordaan District - Amsterdam, Netherlands

Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic

A UNESCO World Heritage Site , Cesky Krumlov is perhaps the most scenic small-town spot on our list. Offered as an excursion on most Danube River cruises porting in either Passau, Germany or Linz, Austria, the cobblestone streets and gothic architecture provide a fantastic backdrop for any photographer.

Cesky Krumlov Castle - Cesky Krumlov, Czech Republic

Heidelberg, Germany

Viewed mainly as a University town in southwest Germany, Heidelberg features lots of scenic vistas for the perfect photograph. The town is a popular day excursion from cruises along the Rhine River - and virtually every line offers their own version allowing you to explore with a local expert.

Honfleur, France

Often considered the gateway to Normandy on the northern end of the Seine River, Honfleur is a picturesque port town with perhaps the most beautiful harbor in all of Europe. Magnificent historic houses jostle for position along the marinas, as do galleries and restaurants, all offering a perfect spot to relax and take in the views.

Salzburg, Austria

Perhaps the most famous music city in Europe, Salzburg is a must-visit destination on most Danube River cruises. It is the birthplace of Mozart and the shooting location for The Sound of Music - and offers a harmonious interplay of landscape and architecture, art and culture, historic and modern, all within a surprisingly small area.

Mirabell Palace & Gardens - Salzburg, Austria

Prague, Czech Republic

The “City of 100 Spires” is certainly one of the most beautiful in the world - and often included as a starting or ending point on many cruises of the Danube River. From the famous Astronomical Clock in Old Town to the winding lanes and alleys of the Jewish Quarter to the Gothic Charles Bridge there is enough here to keep your shutter clicking for days.

Charles Bridge & Prague Castle - Prague, Czech Republic

As you can clearly see, on a river cruise of Europe you will never run out of scenic vistas, historic buildings, or cobblestone-covered streets scenes to photograph. Whether your journey takes you to the Rhine, Danube, Rhone, Moselle, Seine, Saone, or Main Rivers, you will never be disappointed! So for your next river cruise, check out our current special offers and then get in touch. We have lots of first-hand experience to help you plan the (picture) prefect escape!