What is the longest river in Europe?

The longest river in Europe is the Volga River. Stretching approximately 3,530 kilometers (about 2,194 miles), it flows entirely within Russia and is not only the longest river in Europe but also one of the most significant in terms of cultural and economic impact. The Volga is often regarded as the national river of Russia and plays a critical role in transportation, irrigation, and hydroelectric power generation.

Understanding the lengths of the other rivers sheds light on why they do not hold the title. The Danube River, while long and internationally significant, measures around 2,860 kilometers (1,777 miles). The Rhine River is about 1,230 kilometers (764 miles) long, and the Thames River is even shorter, at roughly 346 kilometers (215 miles). None of these rivers match the vast length and influence of the Volga in the European context.