Stream restoration is commonly used to improve the hydromorphological situation of streams and rivers. Here we studied the consequences of restoration measures on aquatic macroinvertebrate communities of mountain rivers in Europe. We investigated 13 paired sites in mountainous areas of Czech Republic (1 site), Germany (7 sites) and Italy (5 sites), employing a standardized transect-point protocol and sampling technique for aquatic benthic invertebrates. We test the hypotheses that restored sections have larger and more diverse habitats and more diverse biota. Various hydromorphological parameters (shoreline length, channel features, current velocity, water depth, substrate type) were recorded. Two spatial scales are analyzed regarding hydromorphological differences: width, quality and quantity of channel elements are meso-scale descriptors, while aquatic habitat diversity describes the micro-scale variability. Morphological changes are most evident at the meso-scale, aquatic micro habitat does not show significant changes. Alpha- and beta diversity of macroinvertebrate communities do not change significantly, yet show a trend towards more diverse communities, usually limited to special habitats (e.g. large woods or roots). Exploring these differences allows the evaluation of current restoration strategies.