When planning a European river cruise, one name always seems to come up: Viking. With their sleek advertising and extensive reach, they’ve become synonymous with river cruising. But are they really the best choice? For many travelers—especially those looking for more inclusions, a fresher feel, and a bit more personality—Avalon Waterways may be the better fit. Here’s a breakdown of both lines, and what you should know before you book.
Experience on Board
Avalon Waterways and Viking River Cruises Europe both offer elegant experiences, but the feel is quite different. Avalon is known for its spacious Panorama Suites and open-air balconies, giving you a true river cruise experience that brings Europe right into your room. Viking’s design is sleek and minimalist, and while that’s appealing to some, others find it lacks the warmth Avalon delivers.
Both cruise lines sail on the Rhine River, Danube River, and more, offering grand European river cruise itineraries from Amsterdam to Budapest. However, Avalon edges ahead with features like a full-sized dining room that emphasizes local cuisine and regionally inspired wines, an energetic happy hour, and fresh décor that doesn’t feel cookie-cutter.
Itineraries and Excursions
Both Avalon and Viking offer robust shore excursions, but Avalon gives you more freedom to explore. With Active & Discovery itineraries, Avalon introduces a modern take on cruising: bike tours, guided tours, and hands-on experiences that connect you with the culture. Viking, while reliable, tends to lean into more traditional sightseeing.
Each line offers included excursions, but Avalon often includes more unique options without extra cost—especially appealing for solo travelers or couples wanting a more curated trip. Viking tours are informative but can feel crowded, especially on popular Christmas markets sailings.
Pricing, Value, and Solo Travel
If you’re comparing cruising companies on price alone, you’ll find that Viking can be more affordable at first glance. But once you add in optional excursions, drinks, and gratuities, the value shifts. Avalon’s upfront pricing includes more, which often saves you money in the long run.
Single supplements are another factor. Avalon is more friendly toward solo travelers, offering deals with reduced or waived single supplements—something Viking rarely offers. For those planning short European river cruises or even a grand European river cruise, that makes a big difference.
Reviews and Travel Agent Recommendations
Ask any best European river cruise travel agent, and you’ll likely hear a few consistent comments: Avalon’s staff is warm, flexible, and deeply attentive. Viking’s service is consistent, but less personal. Reviewers on Cruise Critic echo this, frequently noting Avalon’s exceptional customer care and immersive local experiences.
For family-friendly river cruises Europe travelers, Avalon is often seen as more welcoming and versatile. While neither line specifically caters to young children, Avalon’s flexible shore programs make multigenerational travel easier.
Ship Design and Facilities
Avalon’s river cruising ships are newer on average, with more modern amenities like fitness centers, spacious sun decks, and panoramic lounges. Their ships are smaller, which means fewer crowds and more personalized attention.
Viking’s cruise ships, while larger, don’t offer as much flexibility in layout or cabin type. Many travelers find Avalon’s layout easier to navigate, particularly when embarking at smaller ports along Europe river routes.
Destinations and Mapping Out Your Trip
Both Avalon and Viking offer rich river cruise Europe map itineraries—covering iconic routes like the Danube River Cruise, Rhine River Cruise, and even Eastern Europe River Cruises 2025. Avalon has even begun offering new immersive journeys like the Avalon Waterways Romantic Rhine, and exciting seasonal options like the Avalon Waterways Christmas Markets cruise.
Final Thoughts: Which One Is Right for You?
So—Avalon Waterways vs Viking, who wins? If you’re looking for a more immersive, flexible, and personal cruise with better value, Avalon Waterways is hard to beat. While Viking River Cruises Europe has its loyal fans, those in-the-know are increasingly switching to Avalon for its inclusions, warmth, and curated experience.
Whether you’re cruising solo, sailing as a couple, or booking through a vacations to go European river cruises partner, the best option depends on your priorities. But if you’re after authenticity, value, and a modern twist on tradition, Avalon delivers.
For help planning, a best European river cruise travel agent can help match your style with the perfect sailing—and make sure you avoid surprises like high single supplements, tight schedules, or unexpected costs.
And remember: not all river cruise companies are created equal. Your European river journey should be as memorable as the destinations themselves—whether you’re sipping wine on a sun deck overlooking the Wachau Valley or strolling the cobbled streets of a medieval town on a shore excursion.
