Humans have long depended on rivers. From the earliest bits of recorded history, access to reliable sources of freshwater proved instrumental in allowing societies to flourish. Rivers help irrigate crops and support major cities. Rivers nourish wildlife in diverse landscapes and provide recreational opportunities. It's no exaggeration to say human civilization is inexorably bound to major rivers. In selecting our picks for the world's most beautiful rivers, we considered a number of factors beyond simply length and historical significance. For us, these rivers offer stunning natural beauty and make for excellent vacation destinations. These are our picks for 10 of the most beautiful rivers in the world.
- The Danube
Along with the Rhine, the Danube is arguably continental Europe's most famous river. Originating in Germany's Black Forest region, the Danube flows 1,700 mi (2,850 km) before emptying into the Black Sea. It is Europe's second-longest river after the Volga and passes through major European capitals including Vienna, Budapest, Belgrade, and Bratislava. Danube River cruises rank among the most enjoyable European vacation options and are a fantastic way to experience beauty of the Danube. If this is on your travel bucket list, we wholeheartedly recommend the sections encompassing Vienna, Bratislava, and Budapest. The Hungarian capital in particular offers visitors stunning river views and amazing architecture including the Hungarian Parliament Building, Fisherman's Bastion, and the famous Chain Bridge. Another great option is to enjoy some of the Danube's upriver sections such as those passing through the Bavarian countryside near Ingolstadt and Regensburg. The quaint landscapes have a magical quality that perfectly complements a relaxing cruise along one the world's most beautiful rivers.
- The Yangtze
The Yangtze River is Asia's longest river and the third-longest river in the world. It is contained entirely within China. Originating high on the Tibetan Plateau, the mighty Yangtze flows an incredible 3,900 mi (6,300 km) before emptying into the East China Sea. Known as the Cháng Jiāng (长江) in Mandarin Chinese, its name translates simply as the "Long River." The Yangtze is a major source of hydroelectric power. The Three Gorges Dam on the Yangtze is the world's largest hydroelectric power generating station. Cities and settlements along the Yangtze have witnessed momentous events in China's long history. Today, visitors can enjoy some of the world's most picturesque river scenery. The deep gorges carved over eons now tower over the river as it flows through Chengdu Province and Chongqing Municipality. Chongqing is a great place to begin a Yangtze River tour as the city boasts arguably the best urban skyline in all of Mainland China. Pay a visit to the Three Gorges Museum before continuing downriver into the actual Three Gorges region. Another popular option is to travel the sections between Wuhan, Nanjing, and Shanghai. The lovely cities along the lower stretches for the Yangtze are amazing places to explore in their own right.
- The Colorado
While not as famous as the Mississippi River, the Colorado River is, in our opinion, much more majestic. Originating in the Rocky Mountains in the US State of Colorado, the Colorado River flows southwest through Utah, Arizona, Nevada, and California before crossing into Mexico and draining into the Gulf of California. The Colorado is the principle water source for much of the Southwestern United States, including major population centers like Los Angeles. The Colorado is ideal for boaters, rafters, and anglers. The river is known for its impressive rapids, spectacular natural scenery, and for having some of the best fishing waters in the entire United States. Iconic spots along the Colorado River include Lake Mead, Lake Powell, the Grand Canyon, and the Hoover Dam. Any of these areas make for excellent vacation destinations, particularly if you fancy great outdoor recreation options. River rafting is extremely popular along much of the Colorado River and various white-water tour operators offer package deals to some of the more challenging and exciting rapids. The Desert Southwest ranks among the most picturesque natural landscapes anywhere in the United States and the Colorado River is critical to the entire ecosystem.