The rivers of Europe
Most rivers in Europe are relatively long and have a steady flow. This makes them navigable by boat.
The watersheds of Europe
Based on the ocean or sea they flow into, European rivers can be grouped into five watersheds: the Atlantic watershed, the Arctic watershed, the Mediterranean watershed, the Black Sea watershed and the Caspian Sea watershed.
Map of the watersheds of Europe.
Mediterranean watershed
Rivers in this watershed have a low and irregular flow because of droughts in summer. The main rivers, from east to west, are the Po, the Rhone and the Ebro.
The Po.
Atlantic watershed
Rivers in this watershed have the highest flow in Europe since they run through areas with abundant rainfall. The main rivers, from east to west, are the Western Dvina, the Vistula, the Oder, the Elbe, the Rhine, the Loire and the Tajo.
The Rhine.
Black Sea watershed
Rivers in this watershed are very long with a high flow, so they are navigable by boat. The main rivers, from east to west, are the Dnieper, the Dniester and the Danube.
The Danube.
Arctic watershed
Rivers in this watershed have a very high flow, and freeze in winter. The main rivers, from east to west, are the Pechora and the Northern Dvina.
The Pechora.
Caspian Sea watershed
Rivers in this watershed are long with a high flow, including the longest river in Europe, the Volga.
The Volga.
Rivers and watersheds of Europe