The Best Rhine River Cruises for Every Traveler

Table Of Content

• Remarkable Rhine & Historic Holland (
• Holland & Belgium at Tulip Time (
• The right excursions to go with your river cruise
• Discover the beauty of Germany's longest river
• Rhine River Cruise Destination Honorable Mentions

With its fairy-tale castles and picture-perfect scenery, the Rhine is arguably Europe's most romantic river. You can harness that dreamy atmosphere on Uniworld's one-of-a-kind boutique vessels, like the River Queen. Soak in as much of Central Europe’s fantastic cities and culture as possible in just two weeks.

Remarkable Rhine & Historic Holland (

Stroll through Cologne’s Old Town and see the city’s famed Gothic cathedral, a UNESCO Site. Explore this time-honored city, from its Mainz Cathedral to the Gutenberg Museum of printing. Explore one of the many world-class museums in this historic cultural capital of Switzerland.

Holland & Belgium at Tulip Time (

The river cruise operator also offers a series of “discovery” excursions, hands-on, interactive experiences that often focus on culture and cuisine. Nevertheless, river cruise companies have seen a major rebound in demand since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, and Rhine river cruises are still among the most popular sailing itineraries in Europe. Here, we present seven of the best Rhine River cruises (in no particular order) for every type of experience, whether it’s food, family adventure, wine—or something else—that floats your (river)boat. Viking's eight-day Christmas on the Rhine cruise between Amsterdam and Basel includes time in Cologne which has seven Christmas markets. A giant twinkling Christmas tree forms the centrepiece of the most famous one held in front of the city’s landmark cathedral.

The right excursions to go with your river cruise

Starting in the Alps and meandering 820 miles through Switzerland, France, Germany and Holland, Viking's extensive offerings of Rhine cruises take in every aspect of this beautiful waterway. There are week-long sailings -- ideal for first-time visitors -- through longer itineraries which are ideal for seasoned Rhine cruisers looking to discover more. Viking Longships have prime mooring spots in the center of town providing the option for easy independent exploration in between guided included and optional shore excursions. For something very different, Viking has a unique 15-day itinerary combining a Rhine River cruise with a Scandinavian sailing into the Norwegian fjords on one of its stylish ocean ships. Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Readers rated individual cruise ships on their cabins and facilities, food, service, itineraries and destinations, excursions and activities, and value.

Where Is the Rhine River? And Other Basics You Should Know - Cruise Critic

Where Is the Rhine River? And Other Basics You Should Know.

Posted: Mon, 02 Oct 2023 07:00:00 GMT [source]

Excursions on Emerald's Rhine sailings feature EmeraldACTIVE options, like a hike from Mount Konigstuhl to Heidelberg plus guided bike tours around destinations like the pretty town of Breisach or to the windmills outside Amsterdam. Along the way, you’ll cruise through 3 different rivers—the Rhine, Main and Danube—to visit Switzerland, France,... Discover the roots of our Christmas traditions as you explore some of Europe’s most charming towns. Dive deep into the region’s culture, natural wonders, traditions and historical significance in a one-of-a-kind experience along the Rhine.

Discover the beauty of Germany's longest river

Sailing between Amsterdam and Basel, the ship stops in France (at Strasbourg) and Germany (at Mannheim, Rüdesheim, and Cologne) en route. Note that itineraries are suggested for kids ages eight and up, and a minimum age of four years old applies. One of the smaller Rhine River cruise destinations is the delightful German wine-making town of Rudesheim. You can walk or take a land train to bustling Drosselgasse street where cozy bars serve local riesling and Rudesheimer coffee made with cream and brandy. One of the more unusual local Rudesheim attractions is Siegfried's Mechanical Music Cabinet Museum, where exhibits range from tiny music boxes to fairground organs. Wrap up your day with a scenic cable car ride above the vineyards to the impressive Niederwald monument overlooking the Rhine.

Here, you can get a close-up view of 19 windmills, including the chance to look inside some of them, watch a movie and learn how the Dutch manage to live on land that sits below sea level. The gift shop at the entrance is a great place to buy another famous Dutch symbol -- a pair of wooden clogs. You can't get lost in the city, as the UNESCO-listed cathedral's 515-foot spires dominate the skyline (and are visible from all cruise docking spots). The Cologne Cathedral took more than 600 years to build and the panoramic views from the top of the south spire make the climb up 509 steps worth the effort. Afterward, enjoy a locally brewed beer at one of the waterfront bars along the Rhine -- hoppy and slightly bitter kolsch brews are the norm around Cologne.

Best Rhine River Cruise for Luxury: Tauck

With that in mind, Avalon offers Active & Discovery itineraries on the Rhine with options to suit both active travelers and those who prefer to explore in a more laid back manner. For starters, all of the major river cruise lines sail the Rhine, from Viking to Uniworld and AmaWaterways. That puts the best Rhine River cruise within reach for any type of traveler. However, the differences between each can make or break your Rhine River cruise experience. Take a look at our guide to find out how they differ and decide on the best Rhine river cruise for you.

The Rhine starts its journey in Switzerland's Alps and passes through iconic cities in France (including Strasbourg), Germany (Dusseldorf and Cologne) and the Netherlands. A European river cruise along the Rhine will reveal the best of Western Europe, from its unique scenery, to the exquisite cuisine on offer. Avalon Waterways was one of the first lines to recognize that not all river cruise passengers want to do the same thing.

What's it Like Taking a Winter River Cruise in Europe? - Cruise Critic

What's it Like Taking a Winter River Cruise in Europe?.

Posted: Tue, 27 Feb 2024 08:00:00 GMT [source]

It is discovered under the tower clock of the old department stores’ on Florinsmarkt. To the beat of the pendulum, the man with the moustache and helmet twists his eyes – and every half hour he sticks out his tongue. According to legend, the robber baron Johann Lutter did this in front of his executioners. But that’s just a small feature in a city that otherwise has great things to offer.

Party people will find their happiness in the nightlife and red light district De Wallen. More days means more to discover, with extension packages you can add before or after your Viking cruise or cruisetour. Enjoy additional days to explore your embarkation or disembarkation city, or see a new destination altogether with a choice of exciting cities.Pre & Post Cruise Extensions vary by itinerary and are subject to change.

Additionally, Riviera offers a number of solo-traveler-only itineraries on the Rhine where there is no single supplement on any cabin, including suites. New itineraries for 2024 include an extended 10-night Cologne, the Rhine Gorge & Medieval Germany River Cruise from Cologne to Nuremberg. Viking River's shore tours are graded as easy, moderate or demanding so travelers can gauge their ability to partake. But it's Tauck's fully-inclusive rates that really help make this line a great choice for luxury seekers.

Visitors are best advised to stroll along the main shopping street, called “Planken”, because wooden planks were once laid out there to get across the square on dry feet. The old town hall is a gem, and the largest synagogue in Germany is also worth seeing. The Jewish community was an integral part of Mannheim’s population from 1660 onwards.

Rhine River Cruises Plan a Cruise Down the Rhine

Table Of Content

• Explore the delights of the Rhine River
• Vantage Deluxe World Travel
• The 10 Best River Cruise Lines in 2022
• Christmas on the Rhine & Moselle
• Rhine River Facts
• No Tours Match Your Room Configuration

The ships also have small pools onboard, so kids can take a break from touring and just have fun (while their parents relax). The cruise also takes in ports along the lesser-known Moselle, which joins the Rhine at Koblenz. Quieter and narrower than the Rhine, the tributary winds through wine-growing regions that were first cultivated in Roman times. You will stop at Cochem, the prettiest town on the Moselle, where the old town is filled with half-timbered houses. Perched on a 300-foot promontory is Cochem Castle, the highest fortress on the Moselle which dates back more than 1,000 years.

Explore the delights of the Rhine River

If history isn't quite your thing, have no fear -- this is an oenophile's dream destination, too. The Upper Middle Rhine Valley is flanked by lush vineyards that make up Germany's most renowned wine-growing region. Alongside sips of riesling, expect commentary on the many points of interest in the region, including legendary Lorelei Rock where a siren is said to have lured passing sailors with her haunting songs. Riviera Travel isn't the most widely known cruise provider, but those looking to cruise the Rhine River solo are in luck. On every Riviera sailing a number of double cabins on the lower deck are set aside for single travelers with no single supplement (which is generally charged by cruise lines if you're traveling alone).

Vantage Deluxe World Travel

Itineraries are likely to be filled with excursions such as cycling to the historic windmills of Kinderdijk in the Netherlands or taking a guided walking tour through Cologne, Germany. The natural scenery is stunning, too, especially in the Upper Middle Rhine Valley where dramatic cliffs tower above the river. Take a Rhine River cruise and you'll have the chance to visit several European countries in one trip, including Germany, Switzerland, France and the Netherlands. And no matter where a cruise on the Rhine takes you, you can expect to encounter ancient castles, medieval villages, bustling cities and beautiful vineyards.

The 10 Best River Cruise Lines in 2022

And it is not without reason that the cathedral dominates the city of Speyer and is considered the largest Romanesque church building par excellence. In the Middle Ages, Speyer also had one of the most important Jewish communities of the time. The fact that people in Speyer also enjoy life is evident in wine taverns, cosy pubs and, of course, at the “Brezelfest”, the largest festival on the Upper Rhine, which takes place every year in July.

Christmas on the Rhine & Moselle

Lined with more castles than any other river, the Rhine River is a spectacular showcase of enchanting wine villages, cultural treasures and ever-changing scenery. That makes the Rhine an ideal choice for both first-time and seasoned river cruisers alike -- and means there are plenty of candidates for the best Rhine River cruise. It is the second largest city in Baden-Württemberg and its port facilities are among the largest inland in Europe.

River Cruises Plan a River Cruise - Cruise Critic

River Cruises Plan a River Cruise.

Posted: Mon, 06 Nov 2023 21:36:09 GMT [source]

Christmas on the Main & Moselle

Tauck's Rhine River cruises follow this romantic river on its winding journey through medieval towns, cathedrals, castles, and museums, with enchanting river landscapes along the way. Uniworld’s “Tulip and Windmills” cruise begins on the Rhine, but then veers to the west toward Belgium. Guests will also get to visit small, charming Dutch towns, such as Enkhuizen, Hoorn, and Veere, and take in the dazzling skyline of Rotterdam. It’s a romantic route marked by the region’s legendary castles and half-timbered houses, hillside vineyards, and fairy-tale Black Forest landscapes—along with a pass through the dramatic Rhine Gorge, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Snack on classic Dutch treats in the Netherlands, enjoy the fruits of Germany’s excellent...

Tales from legendary battles here include that of 19-year-old American soldier-turned-actor Audie Murphy, who single handedly held off an entire German platoon. The Anne Frank House is the city's most popular attraction, where poignant exhibits include the Jewish schoolgirl's wartime diary. You'd also do well to stop by the Van Gogh Museum or to view Dutch masterpieces at the Rijksmuseum, including Rembrandt's "The Night Watch."

Review: Cruising the Moselle River With Avalon Waterways - TravelAge West

Review: Cruising the Moselle River With Avalon Waterways.

Posted: Tue, 13 Feb 2024 08:00:00 GMT [source]

Find interesting Rhine River facts – from key cities along its banks to history, culture, cuisine and more. AmaWaterway’s “Captivating Rhine” itinerary runs from Amsterdam to Basel, while its “Enchanting Rhine” cruise runs in the opposite direction. A cruise down the Rhine River remains one of the most popular vacation options for travelers looking to get a taste of central Europe. Some itineraries leave the Rhine at Koblenz to meander along the Moselle tributary and stop at Cochem.

Since you'll spend most of your time on shore excursions and exploring cities along the way, pack comfortable clothing and walking shoes. For more tips, check out our guide to packing for a river cruise in Europe. Spanning the best of Europe, Viking's 15-day Grand European Tour covers all of the highlights on the Rhine and more.

There is the oldest brewery here with an interior that is over 100 years old, the beer tastes delicious. Those interested in history can walk through the casemates, a 14-kilometre-long underground defence system from the 18th century. Back in the present, a visit to one of the terrace cafés or a cosy pub is recommended. Discover the history and origins of Germany’s favorite grape variety and uncover the Riesling wine-producing regions of Europe. Traveling 766 miles from the Swiss Alps to Rotterdam, the majestic River Rhine is truly one of Europe’s greatest international waterways. Enshrined in the culture and literature of the six countries through which it passes, no other river in the world has so many old and famous cities on its banks.

Your program director will highlight many points of interest, including the legendary 443-foot Lorelei Rock where a siren is said to have lured passing sailors to their doom with her haunting songs. Here are five of our favorite Viking Rhine River cruises to help you find the perfect itinerary. Fashion fans may lose their heart and a bit of money in the trendy Wyck district, where boutiques and grandiose design and antique shops can be found. Other, even more exclusive places include Stokstraatand Wolfstraat with super exciting fashion in small shops.

Exclusive events for Rhine River passengers include a special reception, dinner and entertainment at the historic Rheingau wine estate overlooking the river. You can also expect thoughtful extra touches, such as money to buy something to eat if any tours take place over lunchtime. Find the full list of the best river cruise lines — and more on what sets Viking apart — below. Charming and poetic, the compositions of Debussy created a beautiful bridge between romanticism and the developing modern world. So too will your ship, the Riverside Debussy, deliver the rich history of Europe along with all the modern comforts that bring you joy. The best of both worlds await you on the romantic Rhine river, where we are creating unique journeys that will allow you to see the old world in an entirely new, and oh so luxurious way.

Find the best European river cruise for you with top-reviewed itineraries navigating all the major waterways from Tauck. European river cruise itineraries here most commonly glide through four of these countries in one whirlwind week, on regular runs between Basel, Switzerland, and Amsterdam, with stops in France and Germany along the way. A former Roman settlement, it is one of Germany's oldest towns and noted for is large Romanesque-style cathedral. Speyer also has a rich Jewish heritage with a traditional mikveh bathhouse dating back to 1128. Other tours are more somber, including visits to poignant World War II sites in the Colmar Pocket, one of the last regions in France occupied by German forces.