Nature-based solutions – understood here as actions that utilize ecological processes to address societal challenges – can play key roles in creating integrated development concepts for river landscapes. This contribution aims at elaborating the concept of nature-based solutions with a focus on river landscapes. We present ten propositions that characterize the concept of nature-based solutions, introduce the comparative advantages of applying such solutions, and discuss chances for successful deployment. We developed the propositions using an adapted Delphi method, together with experts from policy and practice. Our contribution should help avoiding conceptual misunderstandings, illustrate the urgency for implementation, and encourage practitioners to enhance the consideration of nature-based solutions. We hope the propositions thus help to support transformations towards a more sustainable development of river landscapes for people and nature.