3 Day River Cruise Tours & Trips
Three days on rivers gives you a true sample of the area you’re visiting. You could cruise the Rhine, Nile, Danube, the list goes on! Visit riverside towns, taste regional wines, see castles from water level, and experience river life. You're testing whether river cruising suits you, seeing regions differently, relaxing while landscapes float past, and usually, three days usually convinces many people to book longer trips.
10 best 3 Day river cruise tour packages
Compiled by

MelissaRiver Cruise travel expert at TourRadar
- Amazing 3-Days 2-Nights Nile Cruise Aswan to Luxor with Edfu and Kom Ombo Tours
- Mornings in Varanasi: 5-Hour Guided Tour with Boat Ride & Temple Walk
- From Luxor 3 Days 2 Nights Nile Cruise
- Downstream Mekong River Cruise Tours from Siem Reap To Phnom Penh 3-Day
- Nile Crystal Dinner Cruise in Cairo: An Evening of Dining, Dancing & Views
- Felucca Ride on the Nile at Luxor City
- Private Felucca Ride on the Nile in Cairo
- Nile Pharaoh Dinner Cruise Cairo
- Amazing 2 Nights Cruise From Aswan to Luxor including Tours and Hot Air Balloon
- 2 Day Mekong River Cruise From Houay Xay to Luang Prabang via Pakbeng (Thailand to Laos Downstream)
Amazing 3-Days 2-Nights Nile Cruise Aswan to Luxor with Edfu and Kom Ombo Tours
2 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Nice trip on the Nile from Aswan to Luxor.”
Kristof, traveled in January
The 5-star Nile ship offers deluxe berth cabins with satellite TV and private bathrooms. Visits include Kom Ombo's dual temple and Edfu's falcon shrine via horse carriage, with Esna Lock crossing, sundeck views and authentic Egyptian entertainment.
Duration 3 days Destinations Aswan, Kom Ombo, Edfu, Esna, Luxor Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, Spanish Operator Egypt Gift Tours From
- US$550
Mornings in Varanasi: 5-Hour Guided Tour with Boat Ride & Temple Walk
3 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“Nice tour, we saw a lot.”
TONKA, traveled in February
Starting at 5am, you'll board a boat for a sunrise ride on the Ganges, gliding past Assi Ghat where pilgrims perform morning rituals and the spiritual Manikarnika Ghat cremation site. Later, wander Varanasi's narrow alleys to Kashi Vishwanath Temple with its golden spires, then watch traditional mud wrestling at a local akhara before ending with tea and insights into Hindu traditions from your guide.
Duration 1 day Destinations Varanasi Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator Varanasi Excursion Pvt Ltd From
- US$65
From Luxor 3 Days 2 Nights Nile Cruise
2 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The atmosphere on the Nile was magic! The food choice was varied and everything was incredibly good.”
letizia, traveled in December
The 133-mile Nile voyage from Luxor to Aswan unfolds over 3 days on a 5-star vessel. Travelers pass through Esna Lock, visit temples via horse-drawn carriage, and observe traditional village life while savoring meals rated 5.0/5.
Duration 3 days Destinations Luxor, Edfu, Aswan Age Range Ages 18+ Operator Egyptology Travel From
- US$420
Downstream Mekong River Cruise Tours from Siem Reap To Phnom Penh 3-Day
1 Review by TourRadar travelersThe Mekong Dawn carries passengers 200km from Siem Reap to Phnom Penh over three days. Stops include Kampong Phluk floating village, Kampong Chhnang pottery village, and historic Oudong, with panoramic views throughout.
Duration 3 days Destinations Siem Reap, Kompong Chhnang, Kampong Tralach, Koh Chen, Phnom Penh Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator DNQ Travel From
- US$1,037
Nile Crystal Dinner Cruise in Cairo: An Evening of Dining, Dancing & Views
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“Good food and excellent entertainment. I would recommend this dinner cruise.”
Steve, traveled in November
Diamond Boat offers a 2-hour evening Nile cruise. Traditional entertainment and fresh Egyptian cuisine accompany views of Cairo's illuminated skyline, with private hotel transfers included.
Duration 1 day Destinations Cairo Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, Italian, French, Spanish Operator Sun Pyramid Tours From
- US$52
Felucca Ride on the Nile at Luxor City
1 Review by TourRadar travelers“Sailing on the Nile at sunset was breathtaking — the gentle breeze, glowing sky, and calm river made it feel like a moment frozen in time.”
يوسف, traveled in January
Duration 1 day Destinations Luxor Age Range Ages 6+ Operated in English, German, Italian, Portuguese, French, Spanish, Chinese, Dutch, Russian Operator Forever Egypt Tours From
- US$55
A wooden felucca carries visitors along Cairo's historic waterfront for one peaceful hour. A private Egyptologist shares river culture while passing city landmarks, complemented by hotel transfers and refreshments.
Duration 1 day Destinations Cairo Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, Italian, Portuguese, French, Spanish, Chinese, Dutch, Russian Operator Marko Egypt Tours From $25
4% Off- US$24You save $1
The Hathor-inspired Cairiane vessel sails the Nile for 2 hours. The route from Cairo's main dock passes illuminated waterfront landmarks, featuring traditional performances and international cuisine, with hotel transfers included.
Duration 1 day Destinations Cairo Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, German, Italian, French, Spanish Operator Sun Pyramid Tours From
4% Off- US$64
A 5-star ship travels 133 miles from Aswan to Luxor over 3 days. The itinerary features riverside temples of Kom Ombo and Edfu, Esna Lock navigation, and ancient Thebes, enhanced by luxury cabins, gourmet dining, and traditional entertainment.
Duration 3 days Destinations Aswan, Kom Ombo, Edfu, Luxor, Valley of the Kings Age Range All Ages Welcome Operated in English, Spanish Operator Egypt Gift Tours From
4% Off- US$650
2 Day Mekong River Cruise From Houay Xay to Luang Prabang via Pakbeng (Thailand to Laos Downstream)
2 Reviews by TourRadar travelers“The boat was comfortable, with plenty of seating to relax and take in the stunning scenery.”
Francine, traveled in October
The Mekong flows from Houay Xai through Pakbeng to Luang Prabang. Meet Ban Houa Phalam's 90 families and Ban Baw's whiskey craftsmen. Overnight at Mekong Riverside Lodge before exploring Pak Ou Caves.
Duration 2 days Destinations Huay Xai, Pakbeng, Pak Ou, Luang Prabang Age Range All Ages Welcome Operator VietLong Travel From
4% Off- US$399
Reviews of 3 day River Cruise Tours
- Amazing 3-Days 2-Nights Nile Cruise Aswan to Luxor with Edfu and Kom Ombo Tours
Clean and comfortable with amazing views. Great service and wonderful meals. The temple visits were nice. However, a very busy time to visit each (along with all the other cruise boats). The visit to the temple in Edfu was at 4:30am in the morning. Which wouldn’t be first my choice to visit anything. It’s a nice way to travel from Aswan to Luxor.
- Mornings in Varanasi: 5-Hour Guided Tour with Boat Ride & Temple Walk
It was awesome experience with Varanasi Excursion.The trip was excellent & smooth. The hotel , Transport & etc etc all the arrengements were in v satisfactory level. I like to travel again & again with this company. Thanks
- From Aswan 3 Days 2 Nights Nile Cruise
Like some of the other reviews our trip was dramatically altered two days prior to sailing due to a maintenance issue with the boat. We were, however, okay with the changes and extremely happy with our tour guide, Ramzy. Without him this trip could have been a bust. He is a valuable member of their team. Thank you so much Ramzy!!!
What our customers ask about 3 Day River Cruise Tours & Trips
What are the most popular destinations for 3-day river cruises in Europe?
The Rhine River between France and Germany is a favorite for short cruises, especially around Strasbourg, Colmar, and Breisach. Popular boats like the Victor Hugo and Lafayette take you along both sides of the Rhine. Many travelers love the Upper Rhine Christmas cruise on the Modigliani, where you can visit amazing holiday markets - the one by Strasbourg's cathedral at Place Broglie is especially great. Travelers often tell us they love how these stops mix French and German culture, like in Breisach where you can join locals for Christmas Mass at the old cathedral.
What are the most common destinations for 3-day river cruises?
Three-day cruises cover some really interesting routes worldwide. In Europe, the Rhine between Strasbourg and Colmar is perfect during Christmas market season. Egypt's Nile cruises between Luxor and Aswan take you to incredible ancient sites. In South America, Amazon cruises from Manaus let you visit native communities and spot wildlife. The Mekong River between Siem Reap and Phnom Penh shows you floating villages and local life. One traveler told us about their Amazon trip: "Incredible staff and perfect combination of relaxation and activities like fishing for piranhas, seeing pink dolphins, and swimming in Rio Negro."
When should I go on a 3-day river cruise?
It depends where you're headed. For Rhine cruises, December is special with all the Christmas markets in Strasbourg and Colmar. If you're going to Egypt, book between October and April when it's cooler - usually 75-85°F (24-29°C). The Mekong is best from November to February when it's less humid and around 77-82°F (25-28°C). One traveler mentioned: "The December timing was perfect for experiencing the enchanting Christmas markets along the Rhine, with comfortable temperatures for exploring ports."
What food can I expect on a 3-day river cruise?
You'll get all your meals included, with lots of local flavors. European cruises, like those with CroisiEurope on the Rhine, serve French food with welcome drinks and special dinner events. On Nile cruises, you'll try Egyptian dishes alongside international options, sometimes eating lunch in local homes. Drinks with meals and at the bar are included, except for premium options. A recent traveler told us about their Rhine trip: "The Christmas Eve dinner was exceptional with regional specialties and paired wines showcasing the best of French and German cuisine."
What activities and tours are included in 3-day river cruises?
Your cruise includes different local experiences at each stop. European cruises take you to Christmas markets, towns like Colmar, and historic churches. In Egypt, local guides show you around the Valley of the Kings, Hatshepsut Temple, and Karnak Temple. On the Mekong, you can bike through villages, check out floating markets, and learn to cook local food. Local experts lead most tours and handle all the transportation. One traveler shared: "The guided tour of Luxor Temple at sunset was a highlight, with our Egyptologist bringing ancient history to life."
How much time do I get to explore on my own during stops?
You'll get a good mix of guided tours and free time. In European ports like Strasbourg and Colmar, you usually have a few hours to walk around the markets and see the sights. Nile cruise stops usually have morning tours with free afternoons. Mekong Delta trips give you time in Can Tho to do your own thing or just relax. One traveler told us: "We appreciated having free time after guided tours to wander through Strasbourg's Christmas markets and find local cafes at our own pace."
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