Major Rivers of Europe

5 Major Rivers of Europe

  The rivers of Europe have served as boundaries, avenues of transportation and commerce and sources of sustenance. Many European rivers have been celebrated in song and prose and have a played a major role in both commerce and history. Whether you’re interested in a leisurely barge cruise or merely want to enjoy the view from an ancient bridge or your hotel window, Europe’s rivers can define and enhance your visit to the continent

Ø  Danube :-The blue Danube, celebrated in a song of the same name, flows through Germany, Hungary, Serbia, Croatia, Austria, Slovakia, Romania and Bulgaria. At 1,780 miles long, the Danube is Europe’s longest river. Many companies offer river cruises on the Danube, a comfortable way to sample the many countries along the shore of this important European waterway.

Ø  Elbe: - The Elbe River once comprised part of the border between East and West Germany. Today, the Elbe flows through Germany and the Czech Republic. The Elbe has long been an important avenue for commerce, linking major cities including Dresden, Prague and Berlin. Barges still carry cargo along the Elbe, and many dams along the river help with flood control.

Ø  Loire: - The Loire River is France’s longest river, bisecting the country east to west. The Loire irrigates the scenic Loire Valley, an area known for wine, cheese, fruits and vegetables. Visitors come to this area to tour the many restored chateau along the river’s banks and to feast on the produce of the region.

Ø  Rhine:-The Rhine River originates in Switzerland and flows 776 miles to the North Sea in the Netherlands. Along the way, it passes through Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Austria, Germany, France and the Netherlands. The Rhine is a major waterway for both commerce and tourism, with many companies offering Rhine River cruises. Once very polluted, the Rhine has been restored today and is now a source of drinking water.

Volga:-The Volga River is contained entirely in Russia for its 3,692 miles. Forty percent of Russian people live near the Volga or its tributaries. The river irrigates farms, supplies fish and is an artery of commerce. A Volga River cruise takes you from Moscow in northwest Russia to the Caspian Sea in the southeast.