Cruise Germany’s scenic storybook, experiencing centuries-old history and culture that still enchants travellers.
Describing the Rhine as spellbinding feels apt. Along its beautiful river banks and nestled across its storied cities, there’s a fairytale magic at play that unfolds like the plot of a good book.
Dotted with ancient castles, battle-worn fortresses and charming villages which feel like the past brought to life, a cruise on the Rhine shows Germany at perhaps its most dramatic and picturesque.
An adventure for history buffs and food fans alike, there’s no shortage of wonders to gorge on – especially with more towns and cities on its banks than any other river in the world.
Take your pick from these awe-inspiring cruise lines.
Treasures of the Rhine
Rhine Gems
Castles along the Rhine
From Basel to Amsterdam : The Treasures of the Celebrated Rhine River (port-to-port cruise)
Romantic Rhine (Northbound)
The Rhine and Moselle
Jewels of the Rhine
Rhine Getaway
Christmas Markets on the Rhine
About the Rhine
Beginning in the Swiss Alps, the majestic Rhine River pumps plenty of life into the already-beating heart of the European icons it passes through.
The 765-mile link that connects six countries including Switzerland, Austria, Germany, and France, the Rhine is teeming with tales of history from throughout the ages, with its banks adorned by all manner of dense forests, fairytale villages, and picture-perfect waterfronts.
Along the way, you’ll stop off at a veritable selection of European sightseeing delights. Cologne’s world-famous gothic cathedral makes a great starting point, with its mammoth south tower affording incredible views of the city below – if you can brave the 500 steps to get there.
Then it’s onto Koblenz, where Marksburg Castle still stands as mightily as it did in 1117. Or how about something from the more recent past? In Mannheim, you’ll get to visit its historic university housed within an 18th-century palace, a testament to Germany’s considerable industrial abilities.
Raise a glass in Miltenberg’s Faust Brewery, have a tipple or two at the wine museum in Rüdesheim am Rhein and see The Residenz in Würzburg, a UNESCO-status former royal palace with rooms lined with legendary art.
Speaking of art, your voyage saves some of the best til last. Ending in Amsterdam, weave your way through its vibrant streets and into the museum district, where the Rijksmuseum and the Van Gogh Museum welcome you to feast your eyes on their incredible creations inside.
Rhine highlights
Our favourite experiences from along the Rhine River.
