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Rhine River Cruises

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.

250+ Rhine river cruises with 882 reviews

Legendary Rhine Cruise (Amsterdam-Mainz) MS Crucevita Tour

Legendary Rhine Cruise (Amsterdam-Mainz) MS Crucevita

Accommodations great, staff outstanding, captain great.

Classic Rhine cruise (Amsterdam-Basel) MS Crucevita Tour

Classic Rhine cruise (Amsterdam-Basel) MS Crucevita

Amazing cruise...the whole experience was amazing. The staff were exceptional...helpful, friendly and went out of their way to help you. The whole trip was very relaxing and the onshore tours were great. Loved it!

Romantic Rhine (Southbound) 2024 Tour

Romantic Rhine (Southbound) 2024

It was a great cruise. The food was amazing, the crew was really helpful, and the tours and tour guides were great. The only thing to imporve on if the WiFi which only worked half the time.

Romantic Rhine (Northbound) 2024 Tour

Romantic Rhine (Northbound) 2024

Outstanding service in every respect

The Romantic Rhine Valley and the Rock of Lorelei (port-to-port cruise) Tour

The Romantic Rhine Valley and the Rock of Lorelei (port-to-port cruise)

I was going to send this via email, and perhaps still will, but for now, will copy and paste here: Well.... First let me say that the host and all the staff were wonderful — very genial, helpful, conscientious. They did everything they could to make the cruise nice. They were very willing to speak other languages, including English, and they did so well. It was particularly helpful that we could speak with host, servers, engineers, everyone. (We tried to speak French as well. :) It was nice. But there were many difficulties that were preventable: 1. Worst was that our room became damp and had a mildew smell. This is because the air conditioner was old and had been repaired at some point in the past with duct tape that was no longer functioning. It was leaking water that soaked the carpet near and under one of the single beds. For one day and night we had this wetness and mildew smell. We filled out a report (those cards are a good idea), at 4pm Saturday and someone came to repair it and wet-vacuum the floor at 9am on Sunday. It was clear that it had been a problem before. The chief engineer, Peter, was very professional in showing me the problem and repairing it. The reason this was a more significant problem is that my mother, who was staying in the room with me, has had recent surgeries for mold/fungal infections in the nose. 2. The top 1/3 of the ship was not accessible to passengers and instead was used as a storage area. 3. One of the exit doors (from the bar area to the outside fore deck) could not open from the outside going in — someone had to physically pry the doors apart in order to come in. 4. The ship is advertised as having wi-fi/wlan. However, it often did not work, or worked so slowly that pages didn’t load. Again, this may not ordinarily be a big problem. However, some people have to keep up with work and choose a cruise option for this reason. Or, as in our case, our cell phone service didn’t work, so I needed to use the WiFi to download maps for travel, book our next accommodation, purchase tickets, etc. In fact, it has gotten worse since I wrote this. I have been trying to book our next room for a day now, and I haven’t been able to connect long enough to fill out the forms online! Other things were not problems, just things that could be done differently and perhaps better (based on experience with other lines): -Food: It was delicious and well-prepared. Offering two choices for each meal would be helpful. There was also *a lot* of wasted food, because most people (especially the older folks on the ship I noticed) couldn’t possibly eat as much as was served. Having (just 1-2) choices of portion-size or meal, or making one-two meals ‘buffet-style,’ could help. -Because we were often ‘late’ arriving at various destinations, it wasn’t convenient to leave and return for our meal. Some lines offer boxed meals if passengers request them ahead of time. -Having games available for borrowing would be very nice, especially on cruises such as ours that ended up being rainy! -Provide some printed information in languages other than French for little introductions to (or short ‘guided’ walks) to the destination locations. That way the poor guides don’t have to translate a lot of info into multiple languages. (They were willing, but the French passengers were impatient....)

Springtime in Holland (port-to-port cruise) Tour

Springtime in Holland (port-to-port cruise)

Professional, helpful staff, great food.

Captivating Rhine 2024 Start Amsterdam, End Basel Tour

Captivating Rhine 2024 Start Amsterdam, End Basel

Castles along the Rhine (2024) (Amsterdam to Basel SS Victoria, 2024) Tour

Castles along the Rhine (2024) (Amsterdam to Basel SS Victoria, 2024)

Castles along the Rhine (2024) (Basel to Amsterdam SS Victoria, 2024) Tour

Castles along the Rhine (2024) (Basel to Amsterdam SS Victoria, 2024)

Very nice trip. Your were OK with a few standouts like the vinegar tasting. Wish there had been more lectures and cultures talks. The one about modern German attitudes was particularly fascinating.

Splendours of Europe (Start Amsterdam, End Budapest) Tour

Splendours of Europe (Start Amsterdam, End Budapest)

The program in the Emerald ship was magnificently planned and discussed. The local music during the cruise was so informative. Long live the music from the Netherlands and Germany through Austria and Slovakya to Hungary! Just for the music, dances and songs I will do the cruise again!

Rhine Experience Amsterdam & Rotterdam 2024 Tour

Rhine Experience Amsterdam & Rotterdam 2024

Tulip Time 2024 Start Amsterdam, End Amsterdam Tour

Tulip Time 2024 Start Amsterdam, End Amsterdam

Rhine Experience Amsterdam & Rotterdam 2024 Tour

Splendours of Europe (Start Budapest, End Amsterdam)

Classical Rhine Cruise (Basel - Amsterdam) Tour

Classical Rhine Cruise (Basel - Amsterdam)

Reviews of rhine cruises.

Well organised with plenty to see.
Great company to cruise with. Ship carries 110 passengers. Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner each day. Plenty of stops to sightsee. The castles along the Rhine make trip a very enjoyable cruise. All staff were great.

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7 Rhine River Cruises for Every Type of Traveler

Whether you love the idea of sailing past dozens of castles and forts or are eager to explore one of europe’s more underrated wine regions, there’s a rhine river cruise for you..

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8 Rhine River Cruises for Every Type of Traveler

A cruise down the Rhine River remains one of the most popular vacation options for travelers looking to get a taste of central Europe.

Courtesy of Avalon Waterways

One of the world’s great rivers, the Rhine, marks a storied stretch of winding waterway that spans 765 miles and six nations— Switzerland , Liechtenstein, Austria , Germany , France , and the Netherlands—from the Swiss Alps on to the North Sea. 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.

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. Apart from all that surface beauty, cruising the Rhine affords an immersive contextual understanding about how this ancient highway and trade route—pivotal since ancient Roman times through to today—has contributed to the history, culture, and economic development of greater Europe. The Rhine is one of the busiest and most economically important waterways in Europe , and your journey will also take you past hulking factories and stacks of shipping containers for a behind-the-scenes look at how essential goods are transported across the continent.

A Rhine River cruise provides seamless door-to-door delivery to the attractions of bigger cities like Basel, Strasbourg, Cologne, and Amsterdam, as well as access to less-visited but entirely worthy destinations such as Koblenz and Rüdesheim in Germany, where you’ll get your fill of castles, churches, museums, and wineries—all from the comfort of your floating hotel with accommodations, meals, and guided excursions included.

In 2022, the Rhine River experienced one of the worst droughts in recent history —some parts of the river in Germany dropped to below 16 inches of water in key navigational areas. The drought affected the flow of cargo and river cruise ships. While ships are still sailing , keep in mind that low water levels may affect river cruise itineraries by shortening the amount of time that passengers have in port when ships are forced to sail at a slower pace.

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.

Amawaterway's "Captivating Rhine" itinerary runs from Amsterdam to Basel, while their "Enchanting Rhine" cruise runs in the opposite direction.

AmaWaterway’s “Captivating Rhine” itinerary runs from Amsterdam to Basel, while its “Enchanting Rhine” cruise runs in the opposite direction.

Photo by Bjoern Wylezich/Shutterstock

AmaWaterways: Captivating Rhine

Cost: From $3,000 per person Days: 8 days Departure Port: Amsterdam, the Netherlands Final Port: Basel, Switzerland (AmaWaterways’ Enchanting Rhine Cruise runs from Basel to Amsterdam and is the same itinerary, just in the opposite direction)

The seven-night “ Captivating Rhine Cruise ” sails between Amsterdam and Basel, with stops in Germany (Cologne, Rüdesheim, Ludwigshafen, and Breisach) and France (Strasbourg)—it’s a paradise for wine lovers. Itineraries include wineries, vineyards, and cellars: Hike through the vineyards of the winemaking town of Rüdesheim; visit the “Great Vat,” an 18th-century, 49,000-gallon wine barrel in Heidelberg; or taste the famous white wines of Alsace in Riquewihr. Some notable varieties to sample include riesling, which is known as the “queen of the grapes” along the Middle Rhine, while red wine drinkers will enjoy Germany’s full-bodied and velvety spätburgunder (known as pinot noir in France and made using the same grapes).

However, there are plenty of other things to do on this cruise for those who want to experience the culture of the towns along the route or hope to stay active on vacation. AmaWaterways has several cruise excursions available for each port on its itinerary, including gentle walking tours with local guides and bike tours through the gorgeous central European countryside. (Tip: Don’t miss the bike tour of Strasbourg, which explores the charming city’s modern role as one of the de facto capitals of the European Union, as well as its historic Alsatian identity with a well-informed local guide and leisurely 10-mile ride.)

Viking runs regularly trips up and down the Rhine with its line of over 40, nearly identical sister ships.

Viking regularly travels up and down the Rhine with its line of over 40, nearly identical sister ships.

Photo by Shutterstock

Viking: Paris to the Swiss Alps

Cost: From $3,299 per person Days: 12 days Departure Port: Paris, France Final Port: Zürich, Switzerland

Viking, which bills itself as “the thinking person’s cruise,” is a major player on the Rhine, where it operates more than 40 riverboats—nearly identical sister ships with a capacity for 190 guests. Of particular interest to history buffs is its “ Paris to the Swiss Alps ” cruise tour, a four-nation trip that bookends a seven-night sailing on the Moselle (a Rhine tributary) and Rhine with a two-night, hotel-based stay in both Paris and Zurich . After taking a coach from Paris, guests visit Luxembourg en route to Trier, Germany, the embarkation point for a voyage that stops in Bernkastel, Cochem, Koblenz, Mainz, and Speyer in Germany, as well as Strasbourg, France. The cruise ends in Basel before continuing on by ground transfer to Zurich.

The itinerary is loaded with history-rich excursions. Among the highlights is the American Cemetery where more than 5,000 World War II soldiers repose in Luxembourg; a tour of relics of Roman baths, an amphitheater, and city gates at Trier; a visit to the Gutenberg Museum in Mainz to explore the history of the printing press; a stroll through the palace and gardens of Versailles in France; and Germany’s historic university city, Heidelberg.

Frankfurt, Germany

Frankfurt, Germany, was the birthplace of Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, who penned the play Faust .

Avalon Waterways: Active & Discovery on the Rhine

Cost: From $2,849 per person Days: 8 days Departure Port: Amsterdam, the Netherlands Final Port: Frankfurt, Germany

The Avalon Waterways “ Active & Discovery on the Rhine ” itinerary incorporates an array of customizable excursion options that emphasize physical activity. Choose from guided tours like kayaking the canals of Amsterdam, hiking through the Netherland’s De Hoge Veluwe National Park (140,000 acres and home to red deer, wild boars, and pine martens), jogging while sightseeing in Cologne, or biking through Düsseldorf. Or set out on your own in ports with loaner bikes and Nordic walking sticks on hand. The river cruise operator also offers a series of “discovery” excursions, hands-on, interactive experiences that often focus on culture and cuisine.

Adventures by Disney

Cost: From $5,399 per adult; from $4,899 per child Days: 8 days Departure Port: Amsterdam, the Netherlands Final Port: Basel, Switzerland

River cruise lines have long catered to the over-50 crowd, but the industry has been shaking things up in recent years with the emergence of several family-friendly river itineraries . Leading the charge is the six-year-old partnership between Disney (via its Adventures by Disney tour operating arm) and AmaWaterways; their seven-night Rhine River itineraries unfold aboard two ships, the 156-guest AmaLucia and the AmaSiena. Both riverboats include rare connecting staterooms and suites, designed with families in mind, and fun onboard activities like cooking classes, karaoke nights, and swimming in the heated pool.

Sailing between Amsterdam and Basel, the ship stops in France (at Strasbourg) and Germany (at Mannheim, Rüdesheim, and Cologne) en route. Excursion highlights—all led by up to eight Disney-trained “Adventure Guides”—include a “Black Forest adventure” outing, where you can choose between an alpine toboggan run or a zipline ride and hike to Germany’s highest waterfalls at Triberg Waterfalls; a visit to a chocolate museum in Cologne; horseback riding in Riquewihr (the French village that inspired Beauty and the Beast ); an indoor winter park in Neuss, Germany (for a sledding or tubing adventure, no matter the season); and the Rhine requisite and fun-for-all-ages Heidelberg Castle tour and Amsterdam canal cruise. Note that itineraries are suggested for kids ages eight and up, and a minimum age of four years old applies.

European river cruises are especially popular around the holiday season when Christmas markets are in business.

European river cruises are especially popular around the holiday season when Christmas markets are in business.

Photo by ecstk22/Shutterstock

Scenic: Christmas on the Rhine

Cost: $4,195 Days: 8 days Departure Port: Amsterdam, the Netherlands Final Port: Nuremberg, Germany

Scenic Cruise’s “ Christmas on the Rhine ” takes the best parts of a typical Rhine river cruise and sprinkles in a little holiday magic. Taking place just once a year from December 21 to 28, this cruise sails during Christmas—a memorable way to observe the holiday. The journey begins in Amsterdam, where guests are invited to take a river canal tour or visit the nearby towns of Alkmaar and Schermerhorn, home to windmills that date back to the 16th century. Then the ship will wind its way through Cologne, Rüdesheim, Würzburg, and Bamberg before finally ending in Nuremberg. There are plenty of places in each port to soak up the festive European atmosphere, while making time to pick up a Christmas-themed trinket or two in either Amsterdam or Cologne, Germany.

The moist, but well-drained soil of the Netherlands provides the perfect growing conditions for tulips.

The moist, but well-drained soil of the Netherlands provides the perfect growing conditions for tulips.

Photo by Travelpixs/Shutterstock

Uniworld: Tulips and Windmills

Cost: $4,699 Days: 10 days Departure Port: Amsterdam, the Netherlands Final Port: Antwerp, Belgium

Uniworld’s “ Tulip and Windmills ” cruise begins on the Rhine, but then veers to the west toward Belgium. While in the Netherlands, travelers can look forward to skipping through acres of tulips at Keukenhof Gardens and getting up close and personal with Kinderdijk’s 19 UNESCO-protected windmills that have guarded the low country from rising sea levels for centuries. Guests will also get to visit small, charming Dutch towns, such as Enkhuizen, Hoorn, and Veere, and take in the dazzling skyline of Rotterdam. Art fans will be sure to especially enjoy this itinerary, which features stops at the Kröller-Müller Museum in Otterlo (which houses nearly 100 works by Van Gogh) plus a tour through the world-renowned Rijksmuseum in Amsterdam, which has been nicknamed the “home of the Dutch masters.” Once in Belgium, visitors can take in Ghent’s world-renowned architecture on a walking tour and learn about the UNESCO World Heritage site Cathedral of Our Lady in Antwerp. Be sure to munch on those Dutch and Belgian pastries when you can.

Tauck's Rhine Enchantment intinerary combines two great modes of transportation: cruising and trains.

Tauck’s Rhine Enchantment intinerary combines two appealing modes of transportation: cruising and trains.

Photo by Gaspar Janos/Shutterstock

Tauck: Rhine Enchantment, Amsterdam to Milan

Cost: $6,400 Days: 11 days Departure Port: Amsterdam, the Netherlands Final Port: Milan, Italy

OK, I know what you’re thinking: There are no waterways that directly connect Amsterdam with Milan. Tauck’s “ Rhine Enchantment ” itinerary combines arguably two of the most popular modes of leisure transportation in Europe: cruise ships and rail. After sailing from Amsterdam to Basel (with stops in places like Düsseldorf and Heidelberg), guests will take a train along a stunning route through the Alps to Milan. The cost of the trip includes three nights at the Hotel Principe di Savoia in Milan during the Italian leg of the journey, a private boat ride on Lake Como, and a gala evening at a baroque palace situated along the Rhine near Wiesbaden, Germany.

This article was first published on June 10, 2019. It was updated on August 19, 2022.

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Rhine River Cruises

Rhine River Cruises

From the legendary canals of Amsterdam to the German Black Forest of fairytales, any one of the Rhine river cruises will charm and delight. Our Rhine river cruises include visits to some of Central Europe's cultural hubs, where art, fine dining and historic sites abound. Choose a special Rhine cruise through the blooming tulip fields of northern Holland. Glide through the majestic vineyards of the Rhine Valley. Or select a Christmas river cruise  with excursions to magical holiday markets.

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Rhine River Cruises

riverboat cruise on the rhine

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.

From the comfort of your first-class floating hotel, your Rhine cruise will transport you effortlessly through the most enchanting landscapes that change constantly from the gentle and placid to the most sheer and dramatic. The twists and turns of your cruise on the River Rhine are endlessly fascinating. One moment you’re gliding past dense forests or towering valley sides that soar to more than 1,000 feet, crowned by the precarious ruins of castles that once extracted tolls from passing mariners. The next moment you’re passing steep vineyards where world-famous Riesling or Gewürztraminer wines are produced. Then there are the pretty waterfronts of riverside towns, delightful stone quaysides, spectacular locks, and Oxbow lakes - long deserted by the river flow - that form wonderful havens for birdlife.

Myths and legends bubble around you during your cruise on the Rhine - from the stories of cruel Archbishop Hatto eaten alive by mice after playing a trick on local peasants, to the Lorelei maid who sat combing her golden hair on a high rocky crag,distracting sailors so much with her beauty and song that she caused them to crash on the rocks. But there’s nothing quite like the anticipation of gliding up to the promenade of a river port, snatching tantalizing glimpses of what lies ashore. You’ll discover classic wine villages and picturesque 16th-century old towns. You’ll explore tiny cobbled streets and alleyways leading past quirkily crooked, half-timbered houses to quiet, intimate squares. Then it’s back to your ship - for the next stage of your enchanting River Rhine cruise.

Free Superior drinks package with 2024 European river cruises

riverboat cruise on the rhine

Enjoy a free Superior drinks package on all 2024 European river cruises. Fall in love with some of the world's most scenic rivers, passing charming landscapes and cityscapes. Add to that a well-timed, well-chosen glass of wine or classic cocktail (best enjoyed at sunset, up on deck) – and the temptation becomes too great to resist.

With lunch in our restaurants:

  • Red, white, rosé and sparkling house wine, including non-alcoholic  
  • Draught beer, including non-alcoholic  
  • A selection of soft drinks and juices 

From 6pm to midnight in our bars and restaurants, all of the above plus:

  • Our cocktail and mocktail of the day  
  • House spirits and mixers (gin, vodka, rum and whisky)  
  • A recommended regional wine during dinner  
  • Martini & Sherry pre-dinner  
  • Port & Brandy after dinner  

View more about our Superior drinks package .

Cruise Director Hanna on cruising with Riviera River Cruises

Hanna Cruise Director on Rhine and Moselle rivers

Festive River Cruises

View all 2023 and 2024 Festive River Cruises

Cologne Cathedral and bridge at night

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Rhine river cruises

Discover a world of fairy tale landscapes and historical backdrops along the Rhine River.

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Explore the delights of the Rhine River

Sail on a voyage of discovery on board a Rhine river cruise and unveil gems such as the Black Forest and the cultural mecca of Amsterdam. A mesmerizing route through mainland Europe, the Rhine offers an abundance of unique charm to lose yourself in.

Uncover the jewels of the Rhine

A world of experiences

Enlightening experiences await on your Rhine river cruise. Journey from the Netherlands and through the heart of Germany, along the eastern border of France into the north of Switzerland, enjoying all the sights on the way.

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Marksburg Castle, Germany

Discover the Rhine River

Embrace and celebrate european flair.

Street performers and crowd gathering in Trier, Germany

Tasty sweets and hearty meats

A slice of German Black Forest gateaux with cherries on top

Fairy tale landscapes

Cochem Castle and the surrounding town, green fields and the Rhine River

The beauty of nature

Rows of green field vineyards and Cochem Castle from the river

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A quaint town nestled along the Rhine River in Autumn

The top 6 cities on the Rhine River

There are many beautiful cities, towns, and villages along the banks of Rhine. Discover the top six cities to visit on your luxury river cruise.

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The history of Riesling wine

Discover the history and origins of Germany’s favorite grape variety and uncover the Riesling wine-producing regions of Europe.

The fairytale Marksburg Castle in Germany at sunset

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The Rhine Gorge is synonymous with romance. Find out how it gained this famed reputation.

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River Cruises on the Rhine

Discover the beauty of germany's longest river.

The Rhine is not only the longest river in Germany, it is also undoubtedly the most diverse. On a river cruise on the Rhine and its tributaries, you will experience an incomparable range of cities and landscapes that no other river can offer you. From the modern metropolises of Düsseldorf, Frankfurt and Rotterdam to the historic cities of Basel, Speyer and Strasbourg. From imposing castles to picturesque windmills. From steep vineyards to colorful tulip fields. From luxurious shopping boulevards in the big cities to winding alleys in the small towns along the river.

Not to mention the numerous world-class attractions located directly on the banks of the Rhine and its tributaries: Cologne Cathedral, Amsterdam's canals, Brussels' Grand Place, Speyer Cathedral, Mannheim Castle, Koblenz's Deutsches Eck and Strasbourg Cathedral, to name just a few. No other river in Europe offers so many impressive sights and experiences as the Rhine. Take a cruise on the Rhine and make a trip that you will remember for a long time.

  • Arrival and Departure

City Highlights

Düsseldorf

Amsterdam is one of those cities that every traveler should have visited at least once in his life. No wonder, millions and millions of tourists flock to the city on the canals every year to enjoy the flood of sights and cultural offerings. The best way to discover Amsterdam is by taking a boat ride along the canals or a walk along the unique canals. Art lovers will be immediately drawn to one of the world-famous museums, such as the Rijksmuseum, the Stedelijk Museum or the Van Gogh Museum. Party people will find their happiness in the nightlife and red light district De Wallen. And beer drinkers should by no means miss the Heineken Experience.

Hoorn

Linz on the Rhine

Linz am Rhein is located 30 kilometers from Bonn. The city of 6,000 inhabitants is known for its numerous colorful houses in the historic old town, which have also earned the city the nickname "The Colorful City on the Rhine". Other sights of the city are the parish church of St. Martin from the early 13th century and the former Capuchin monastery church from the 17th century. In addition, you should not miss the castle of the Elector of Cologne during a visit to Linz on the Rhine. A great view of the entire region can be seen from the lookout point at the Linz Kaiserberg Stadium. Not far from Linz is the small castle Dattenberg, which is also a popular destination.

Coblenz

Loreley passage

I throned in the middle of the UNESCO World Heritage Upper Middle Rhine Valley on a slate rock the bronze statue of the Loreley and sparkles seductively in the evening sunshine. The myth described by Clemens Brentano to Heinrich Heine goes with a natural phenomenon that was the undoing of many lake people in earlier times: The rock reefs are getting closer, The Rhine begins to gush and sets course for a sharp curve. Numerous ruins, castles and wine villages observe this impressive spectacle, which to this day is unsurpassed in drama and romanticism.

Rüdesheim

Description and info of river cruises on the Rhine

Not in the mood for the daily grind anymore? Treat yourself to a short vacation and discover some of the most beautiful cities on the Rhine. Go shopping in Mannheim and visit Speyer, steeped in history with its mighty cathedral, the largest Romanesque church in the world, which was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1981. Take a detour to France, where you can indulge in culinary delights in Strasbourg. As a final major highlight, Mainz invites you to take long walks in its endless parks and green spaces. Air your head through and arrive afterwards with wonderful memories back home. Click here to get to the voyage: Short trip on the Rhine | River cruise | VIVA TIARA | VIVA Cruises (viva-cruises.com)

Prinsengracht, the "9 Straatjes", Kalverstraat, the Rijksmuseum, the Heineken brewery or a somewhat off-the-beaten-path detour to "Oud Zuid", one of Amsterdam's most beautiful districts, where the numerous mansions, boutiques and cafés make you want to move immediately. You have a whole two days to discover the many highlights of the Dutch metropolis for yourself. Afterwards you will continue to Rotterdam. The city is famous for its futuristic-modern cityscape since the reconstruction after the Second World War.

Whether the cube houses, the Erasmus Bridge or the many skyscrapers - in the list of the architecturally most exciting cities in the world, Rotterdam rightly ranks high. Finally, on the fourth day we make a detour to Nijmegen, where you can stroll through the beautiful city center and let your soul dangle, before it goes back to Düsseldorf in the evening. Click here to get to the voyage: Break in Amsterdam | River Cruise | VIVA ONE | VIVA Cruises (viva-cruises.com)

Experience the four largest cities on the Rhine in three days - and on one of our most modern and youngest ships, the VIVA ONE. Since we do not depart from Düsseldorf, the capital of North Rhine-Westphalia, until 11:30 p.m., we recommend arriving in good time so that you still have enough time to thoroughly enjoy the Rhineland lifestyle between the "longest bar in the world" and Königsallee.

The following day we reach Koblenz, where the Rhine and Moselle rivers flow together and you should take a very special look at Koblenz and its two rivers at Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. We continue on to Bonn and a journey through time at the "House of History" there. On the third day, Cologne Cathedral greets you from afar, which you should definitely put on your sightseeing agenda with Cologne's Old Town before heading back to Düsseldorf. Click here to get to the voyage: Rhine Metropolises | River Cruise | VIVA ONE | VIVA Cruises (viva-cruises.com)

Let yourself be carried away by the romanticism of the Rhine and enjoy the beautiful view of the Middle Rhine Valley. Stroll past the noble houses of Koblenz, the Mainz Cathedral or through Boppard's old town alleys. Listen to the historical anecdotes of Speyer and enjoy a traditional tarte flambée in Strasbourg. The beautiful Loreley puts the finishing touches on the trip, leaving you with unforgettable memories in your luggage. Click here to get to the voyage: Enchanting Rhine | River Cruise | VIVA MOMENTS | VIVA Cruises (viva-cruises.com)

This three-country tour heading to Basel is one of the most diverse routes in our program. From Amsterdam, Utrecht and Arnhem you will reach Düsseldorf, Koblenz, Rüdesheim and Speyer and finally Strasbourg and Basel. And this much can be said: the cultural and scenic impressions can not be more different.

While in Amsterdam and Utrecht, above all, the historic architecture will transport you to times long past, in Düsseldorf, Koblenz, Rüdesheim and Speyer it is certainly the impressive river landscapes on the Rhine and Moselle that will make you arrive in the here and now. Towards the end of your cruise, one of the most beautiful cities in France awaits you, whose entire city center has been designated a World Heritage Site: Strasbourg. In Basel, whose architecture forms a unique tension between history and modernity, you disembark with many memories - and perhaps also with the inkling that this giant has not been your last river cruise. Click here to get to the voyage: Three Country Tour to Basel | River Cruise | VIVA ONE | VIVA Cruises (viva-cruises.com)

VIVA Cruises offers Rhine cruises of various lengths. Whether you are looking for a Rhine cruise at the weekend or a Rhine cruise lasting several days - at VIVA Cruises you are sure to find a river cruise on the Rhine with a duration to suit you.

A river cruise on the Rhine is suitable for every group of people. History and architecture fans can experience some of the oldest and best-preserved towns in Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands along the river. Connoisseurs will experience a real feast in the wine cellars of the Rhine towns and in the cities of Belgium. Sports enthusiasts have arrived in a paradise for cyclists in the cities of Holland. And museum lovers can discover an incredibly diverse museum landscape in the cities along the Rhine and its tributaries.

VIVA Cruises is happy to support its passengers in organizing their arrival and departure. Do you need a parking space for your car, are you planning to travel by train or are you looking for a suitable flight? Our staff will be happy to help you with all aspects of your arrival and departure.

VIVA All-Inclusive: for you only the best

With VIVA Cruises, "all-inclusive" means that you can  relax  and enjoy. Your physical well-being is taken care of with selected meals and drinks. In addition, we offer you relaxing care products. And if you do need a good connection, use our WLAN. For otherwise good connections - especially to our on-board staff - the included tip.

Welcome with a welcome champagne - to a wonderful stay on board

Full board with breakfast buffet, lunch, dinner (multi-course gourmet menus, served at the place) and snacks with free choice of table and flexible meal times

All-day high-quality, cold and hot non-alcoholic beverages, as well as a exquisite selection of alcoholic beverages; take a look at our bar menu.

High Tea: once per trip a selection of sweet and savory treats such as scones, sandwiches, cupcakes, chocolates and macarons. In addition be suitably diverse teas offered.

Daily freshly stocked mini-bar and reusable water bottle on cabin

Selected beauty products from RITUALS

Free WLAN on board - for undisturbed reception

Tipping fees for the entire crew

The right excursions to go with your river cruise

The guests on board our floating premium hotels are all different. That's why we devise an equally diverse excursion program for each of our fascinating itineraries. Whether you're an epicurean, a nature lover, or an art enthusiast, our selection of experiences will open up new perspectives on every voyage.

Arrival and departure to your VIVA ship

With VIVA Cruises you enjoy the feeling of being in the best hands from the very beginning. That's why our service is not limited to life on board, but begins with the preparation of your trip. 

You need a parking space for your vehicle, plan a convenient arrival and departure by train or would like assistance for a suitable flight? 

If you wish, we will gladly take care of your stress-free arrival and departure as well as transfers. Call us: +49 211 274 032 50 or write us an e-mail to: [email protected]

Our berth in Amsterdam is usually located at  Haven Amsterdam, Ruyterkade Oost IJ RO1.  You will receive further information with your travel documents two weeks before the start of your trip. 

If you are traveling to Amsterdam in your own car, here is our recommendation on nearby parking garages:

Piet Heingarage  Piet Heinkade 59  1019 GM Amsterdam  Piet Heingarage | Amsterdam

IJ-oever Centrum  Vriesseveem 9  1019 GM Amsterdam  IJ-oever Centrum | Amsterdam 

Our berth in Basel is usually located on the Uferstrasse. You will receive further information with your travel documents two weeks before departure. If you are traveling to Basel with your own car, here is our recommendation for nearby parking garages. These are free of charge, but not in the immediate vicinity. Here we would recommend a taxi from the parking lot to the ship: Ville de Saint-Louis 2, rue Philippe Kieffer 68303 Saint-Louis Ville de Saint-Louis  7, rue Bartholdi  68303 Saint-Louis 

Our berth in Coblenz is usually located at the Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer . You will receive further information with your travel documents two weeks before departure. If you are traveling to Coblenz with your own car, here is our recommendation for nearby parking garages: Underground car park Görresplatz Josef-Görres-Platz Gerichtsstrasse 1 56068 Coblenz Underground car park Görresplatz | Coblenz At the theater Neustadt 30 56068 Coblenz At the theater | Coblenz

Our berth in Düsseldorf is usually located on the Robert-Lehr-Ufer or Joseph-Beuys-Ufer below the Oberkasseler Brücke, centrally located in Düsseldorf's old town. You will receive further information with your travel documents. If you travel to Düsseldorf with your own car, we recommend the following parking lot in the immediate vicinity of our Steiger:

Düsseldorf, Rheinterrasse/Tonhalle Robert-Lehr-Ufer 1 40474 Düsseldorf

It is not possible to make a reservation in advance. Please note that not all parking space may be available due to events. You can find more information here: www.goldbeck-parking.de/Rheinterrasse

Should you wish to extend your stay in Düsseldorf, the hotel ship

VIVA RIVERSIDE Altstadt Düsseldorf will anchor in the direct vicinity of the embarkation/disembarkation point during the winter season. VIVA Cruises guests who book a pre-or post stay receive a 10% discount on the cabin price. For a booking please contact the tram of VIVA RIVERSIDE .

Our berth in Mannheim is usually located at the following spot: Berth | Mannheim You will receive further information with your travel documents two weeks before departure. If you travel to Mannheim with your own car, here is our recommendation for nearby parking garages: Parking garage Uni/Schloss  Bismarckstraße 10 68161 Mannheim Parking garage Uni/Schloss | Mannheim Parking garage Landgericht  A1  City Center/Jungbusch 68159 Mannheim Parking Garage District Court | Mannheim

VIVA CRUISES CUSTOMER SERVICE

Do you have any questions or want to book a trip? We are happy to help.

+49 (0) 211 274 032 50

Monday - Friday 9:00 am - 6:00 pm Saturday 09:00 am - 01:00 pm

[email protected]

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Discover the Majestic Rhine River cruise

River Cruise Lines

Unmatched Expertise and Cruise Service

Award-winning service, join us on the rhine river boat cruises, rhine river boat cruises - explore europe's heart, discover the majestic rhine river.

Welcome to Rhine River Boat Cruises , your premier destination for exploring the heart of Europe. Our cruises offer a unique blend of breathtaking scenery, historical exploration, and luxurious comfort, guided by Cruise Genie's specialists with over 25 years of experience in creating unforgettable journeys.

Why Choose a Rhine River Cruise?

A Rhine River cruise offers an unparalleled experience, weaving through the picturesque landscapes and vibrant cities of Europe. From the medieval charm of Strasbourg to the bustling streets of Amsterdam , each destination along the Rhine tells a story. Marvel at the architectural wonders of Cologne , explore the historic depths of Heidelberg , and be captivated by the natural beauty of the Rhine Gorge and the quaint town of Rüdesheim .

Our Destinations

Our curated itineraries are designed to showcase the best of the Rhine. Journey from the cultural hub of Basel to the enchanting Breisach , each stop inviting you to explore, taste, and immerse yourself in local cultures and traditions.

The Cruise Genie Difference

With Cruise Genie, you're not just booking a cruise; you're investing in an experience. Our team of Rhine River cruise specialists brings passion, expertise, and personalized service to each voyage, ensuring your trip is as enriching as it is relaxing. Enjoy award-winning service, luxury accommodations, and exclusive excursions that make every moment on the Rhine unforgettable.

Ready to embark on your Rhine River adventure? Explore our site for exclusive deals and itineraries that promise an unforgettable journey through the heart of Europe. With Cruise Genie, a world of discovery awaits.

RIVER CRUISING IS HOT!!!

The cruise industry's greatest success story in the past two decades has been the surge in growth and popularity of river cruises. With an ever increasing number of new river cruise lines and river boats introduced, and river cruise companies adding new itineraries to more destinations, coupled with the ever expanding interest in river cruises by the traditional ocean cruising population looking for something new, many more lucky travelers are able to enjoy the more intimate, immersive and attentive experience that river cruises bring to the world!

River cruising is a type of travel that involves navigating a river on a small, often luxurious, ship. Unlike ocean cruises, river cruises take passengers on journeys through inland waterways, such as the Danube, Rhine, Nile, Yangtze, Mekong, and many other rivers around the world. River cruises typically offer a more intimate and relaxed experience than ocean cruises, with smaller ships and fewer passengers. The itineraries often focus on exploring smaller towns and cities along the river, allowing passengers to get a closer look at the local culture and history. This can include visits to historical landmarks, museums, and cultural sites, as well as opportunities to sample local food and wine. River cruises often include a variety of amenities and services, such as fine dining, entertainment, educational lectures, and excursions. Some river cruises are all-inclusive, while others offer optional add-ons for certain activities or services. River cruising has become a popular way to explore Europe, Asia, and other regions of the world, with many cruise lines offering a wide variety of itineraries and ship sizes to suit different preferences and budgets.

With so many River Cruise Companies vying for this ever increasing number of passengers, each claiming to be the best option in the Budget, First Class or Deluxe categories, it has becomes quite difficult for travelers to know which is the best River Cruise Company, River Boat, Destination or Itinerary for them! Without years of experience and the knowledge and access to information that those years bring, consumers run the risk of paying more than they need to, or getting less than they expected to!

That is where we come in! RiverCruiseLines.com, a service of Smart Traveler and MisterCruise.com, puts you in touch with the best cruise counselors for your lifestyle and budget - and our service is FREE.

In fact, we guarantee that, at the time of your river cruise reservation, you will never pay more than if you booked it yourself directly! In addition to absolutely NOT paying more using our services, for over 80% of our reservations, our customers pay less, sometimes much less, than if they booked it themselves!

So, please, look around, get some ideas, and whenever you feel ready for some assistance, simply fill out the River Cruise Quote Request Form. You will enjoy exceptional value when you book your discount river cruises and discount luxury cruises with RiverCruiseLines.com. Act now for the best deals on Yangtze River Cruises, Nile River Cruises, Europe River Cruises or Mississippi River Cruises and sail away with bonus offers such as free onboard spending and free upgrades. Plus, discount river cruises include all meals, accommodations, and countless onboard activities. Discount river cruises are the way to save — plan your cruise vacation of a lifetime before these phenomenal river cruise deals are gone.

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RIVERS UPDATE - River cruises continue to be discontinued until further notice on all rivers of the Ukraine and Russia.

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RIVER CRUISE specialist!!!

A river cruise specialist can be a valuable resource for anyone who is considering a river cruise anywhere in the world! Often selling at group discounted prices, which can save you hundreds, or even thousands of dollars, they can help maximize the value of any budget to add days to your river cruise vacation, upgrade your experience, or both!

Here are some ways in which they can help

Knowledge of destinations.

River Cruise Specialists have extensive knowledge about the different river cruise destinations available worldwide. They can provide information on the various ports of call, cultural attractions, and local experiences that each destination has to offer. This information can help you make an informed decision about which river cruise itinerary will best suit your interests and preferences.

Expertise on Cruise Lines & Ships

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Experience and Advice

River Cruise Specialists the experience and expertise to provide valuable advice on how to get the best value for your river cruise dollar. They can offer insider deals, promotions, and discounts, as well as provide guidance on how to choose the right cabin category and when to book.

Customization

River Cruise Specialists can help you customize your river cruise experience, tailoring it to your specific interests and preferences. They can help you choose the right shore excursions, onboard activities, and dining experiences to ensure that your river cruise is a truly personalized and memorable experience.

River Cruise Specialists can help you navigate the wide range of options available for worldwide river cruises, providing you with the knowledge, expertise, and advice you need to make an informed decision and get the best value for your river cruise dollar.

Don’t make a costly mistake by booking online or direct. Only a live, experienced River Cruise Specialist can provide the personalized service, experience, access to proprietary pricing, and knowledge of all amenities on the different lines, and ships – and can help compare multiple options! They can also provide additional travel arrangements, such as airfare, travel insurance, pre or post cruise stays and local excursions.

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Completing our River Cruise Quote Request form is the first step to getting true expert advice.. We have been selling, and sailing, river cruises since 1984. We can help you find what is right for you! For avid river cruisers, please join our mailing list, as we will soon be announcing special, Concierge escorted river cruises for those traveling single, with special needs, 55+, and niche cruises for wildlife viewing experiences, Food & Wine, and more!

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river of poets and philosophers

A luxury river cruise on the rhine.

The Rhine passes through over 1200 kilometres on its way from the Alps to the North Sea. Anyone who follows its course will travel through epochs and countries, and see fascinating cities and romantic castles. A river of poets and philosophers. For Victor Hugo, it was more rapid than the Rhône, as steeped in history as the Tiber and as royal as the Danube.

Along the Rhine

Novalis wrote, “I romanticise something when I give the commonplace a higher meaning.” And Heinrich Heine’s “The Lorelei” is probably the romantic poem par excellence. The Lorelei can be found between Bingen and Königswinter, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Rhine valley is sometimes narrower here. The river winds its way through spectacular gorges and it’s not for nothing that there are good locations for cultivating wine here.  And among all this beauty there are castles, ruins and schlosses, almost as picturesque as in fairy tales. Such as Burg Sooneck, where bloggers have been in residence for a few years to report on the fascination of the Upper Middle Rhine. It forms a grandiose contrast to the impressive industrial culture between Düsseldorf and Dinslaken and the Dutch Rhine Delta, where the tulips brightly bloom in spring. By the way, the Rhine was once the European river whose condition caused the most concern. This has changed. Even salmon have returned.

BEST OF RHINE

riverboat cruise on the rhine

Cruising Belgium and the Netherlands

riverboat cruise on the rhine

Three Rivers, including the lower Danube

riverboat cruise on the rhine

Danube to Moselle Magic

riverboat cruise on the rhine

Legendary Rhine, Main, and Moselle Expedition

riverboat cruise on the rhine

Highlights from the Rhine and Moselle

Cologne, that’s the city’s “Tünnes and Schäl”, that’s gabled houses on the Rhine front, that’s the Old Market with cafés and streets through which the carnival passes in spring and the gay community moves in summer at Christopher Street Day. These are residents of the city who are known for their casual, humorous and friendly yet direct manner. These are temples of art like the MAKK or the Museum Ludwig with the most extensive Pop Art collection in Europe. And, of course, there’s the cathedral, the Gothic masterpiece, 157 metres high, with the world-famous altar of the Three Kings and the treasury and viewing platform, which you can reach via 509 steps. And Cologne, that’s “Kölsch”, a wonderfully drinkable beer that you drink out of small glasses, and which you can enjoy two, three or four at a time. Well then, cheers!

Can office buildings dance? In Düsseldorf, the answer to this question is a resounding “yes”. The architect Frank O. Gehry designed it – its model must have been the Leaning Tower of Pisa. They are located in the city’s famous “Medienhafen” quarter, where other international architects have also immortalised themselves in style between quay walls and railway tracks. Definitely worth a visit. Just like the house where Heinrich Heine was born in the old town, the Hofgarten and right next to it the K20 art collection: Klee, Picasso, Matisse and Andy Warhol, all there! And if you want to let the art reverberate a little longer, take a stroll through one of Düsseldorf’s many green parks.

No other city between Constance and Rotterdam has integrated the Rhine into its city life as grandly as Basel. Pretty art nouveau baths have been installed in the river, there are small restaurants and pubs and bars on its banks, pop concerts are held here, and the residents are all too happy to plunge into the waters for a swim. Another detail not to be missed in Basel is probably the most beautiful museum in Switzerland, perhaps even in the whole of Europe: The Fondation Beyeler, whose transparent building was designed by Renzo Piano. The best thing to do in the old town is just to drift along, and then at some point you will automatically come across the red cantonal town hall or the stately guild houses on Barfüsserplatz, which got its name from the “Barfüssler” monks.

It’s quite possible that you will find yourself saying “WOW” every now and then as you stroll and wander through Strasbourg. What you get to see here is impressive and touching, and quite simply beautiful. For example, the cathedral surrounded by half-timbered buildings with colourful decorative glass from the 12th century and one of the highest church towers in the world (142 metres). Or the lock bridge (17th century) can be described without exaggeration as a grandiose work of art by the engineer, Barrage Vauban. And that is by no means all: Be sure to stroll through the “Quartier des Tanneurs”. Half-timbering at its finest. Lanes with cobblestones. Covered bridges. In the Middle Ages, fishermen, tanners and millers lived and worked here. The architecture from this period is almost perfectly preserved. If you need a little break afterwards to really take in the beauty: There are cosy bistros in the former Gerber quarter.

In the past, Rüdesheim was regarded by young people as stuffy German and highly provincial. In the meantime, even the hipster scene from Berlin can be seen here from time to time. The town is best known for its 144-metre-long “Drosselgasse”, the venue for wine events in small half-timbered houses and garden pubs. If you want to get an insight into the history of the Rüdesheim nobility, visit the beautiful courtyards on Oberstraße. The Frankensteiner Hof, for example.

How it sings and laughs. Ah yes, the carnival. But Mainz also has its pleasantly sober sides. The imposing town hall made of natural stone is a statement. Large louvres keep the sun – and the sweat – off the officers. It was built in the 1970s by the world-famous architect Arne Jacobsen. And another exciting detail for architecture fans and those interested in the city’s history is also the new synagogue. Playful shapes, straight lines, green glazed ceramics on the façade. Highly modern – a visible sign of a Jewish community that looks back on a 1000-year history in Mainz. A highlight for river cruisers is also the Museum of Ancient Navigation. It is located in a listed locomotive hall and shows exciting models and constructions – from canoes to battleships. Now a stroll through the large weekly market, a chat with vintners who also sell there – and there it is again: the cheerfulness so prevalent in Mainz.

One pretty detail in the old town of Koblenz is the “Augenroller”. 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. The equestrian statue of Wilhelm I at the Deutsches Eck, for example, where the Moselle and Rhine rivers meet. Or the Electoral Palace and, of course, right outside the city gates, the castle Burg Stolzenfels, which was built in 1250 and extensively restored, indeed almost rebuilt, in 1826 according to plans by Karl Friedrich Schinkel.

A walk through Bonn is a short journey through time in the old Federal Republic of Germany. There is the “Haus der Geschichte” or “House of History”, which reminds us of Ludwig Erhard, of “raisen bombers” and of the Germans’ incipient longing for Italy. There is the old town with the historic fortress belt, the Old Town Hall and the university, where Konrad Adenauer, Ludwig von Beethoven and Karl Marx studied. And there is Bad Godesberg, the once notorious diplomatic quarter. It is nothing short of a stroll between yesterday and today.

Not too many towns have such a lofty landmark as Breisach: the enormous cathedral with Romanesque and Gothic elements is enthroned on the 70-metre-high Münsterberg. A magical work of art can truly be marvelled at there: The high altar from 1525, hand-carved and positioned right at the centre, depicts the coronation of Mary. Just around the corner from the cathedral is a large black marble bull – the work of the artist Helmut Lotz. From the cathedral, the view all around is also worth taking in: to the west into Alsace, to the north-east to the Kaiserstuhl, to the south to the Eckartsberg with the remains of a fortress, to the east to the southern Black Forest. It is only a stone’s throw from Breisach to Furtwangen. There, the German Watch Museum boasts 8,000 exhibits from all over the world. 1,000 are on show. Super exciting stuff.

Ok, it is a former Electoral Palatinate residential town. It is the second largest city in Baden-Württemberg and its port facilities are among the largest inland in Europe. Since the city was all but destroyed during the Second World War, it is not exactly considered the pearl of the country today. And yet it is worth a visit. Mannheim is young, also due to the students at the university and the State University of Music and Performing Arts. Incidentally, the city’s National Theatre hosted the premiere of Friedrich Schiller’s drama “Die Räuber” in 1782. 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. Today, a glass cube in the city commemorates the terrible deportation of the Jews during the Second World War. The 2,400 names of the Jews deported from the city are engraved on it.

It developed from a Roman military camp and is one of the oldest cities in Germany. It has been a bishop’s seat since the 7th century. And it is not without reason that the cathedral dominates the city of Speyer and is considered the largest Romanesque church building par excellence. 134 metres long, 37 metres wide, protected by UNESCO. Right next door is the Episcopal Palace. In the Middle Ages, Speyer also had one of the most important Jewish communities of the time. The former Judenhof is now a museum. 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. Anyone who sins here as a citizen of faith in the city can absolve himself of his guilt immediately afterwards at confession. After all, there are plenty of churches in Speyer.

Netherlands

Rotterdam, yes, is a cool port city, trendy and hip and known for its art scene, a chic shopping city and, above all, it is famous for its modern architecture. And the contrasts: There are the historic buildings like the Witte Huis (from 1898) in Art Nouveau style, there are cube houses built on stilts (from 1984) and there are also the imposing skyscrapers. Architects like Renzo Piano and Norman Foster have designed the spectacular (and renovated the historic) in a modern way.

Alleys, canals and van Gogh around every corner. Amsterdam is one of the most exciting cities in Europe. The historic centre was built on five million spruce trunks. The experiences this city has to offer are limitless. Paintings by famous artists can be admired in the newly designed Museum Square. Rembrandt and Vermeer in the Rijksmuseum, Van Gogh has his own museum dedicated to him – the audio tour is a real experience: a touching journey into the life of the artist, who cut off his ear in Arles in southern France after an argument with Gauguin. The Anne Frank House tells a different, but equally touching story. And if you stroll through Amsterdam’s old town, you will experience real contrasts – Chinatown, with the first Buddhist temple built in Europe and with the famous red-light district.

Antwerp is funky, Flemish, rich in art, cosy, relaxed and exciting, all at the same time. Belgium’s second largest city is, to put it briefly, simply wonderful. If you’re in the mood for sightseeing, be sure to visit the Rubens House. The world-famous painter is a child of the city, and the house is a jewel of unparalleled beauty – with a studio and garden and, of course, paintings. No less exciting is the DIVA Diamond Museum; Antwerp has been a trading centre for precious stones for centuries. Experts believe that four out of five of the world’s rough diamonds have been in this city at some point. And, last but not least, architecture fans rave about the Museum an de Strom, or MAS for short. An imposing warehouse with metre-high glass walls and a panoramic roof on the 10th floor. And even those who don’t feel like sightseeing will get their money’s worth. Simply stroll through the special quarters of the city, admire original clothes in shop windows: After all, this is where the Belgian fashion revolution began with designers like Dries van Noten, Ann Demeulemeester, Dirk Bikkembergs, Raf Simons, Martin Margiela – trained and inspired by the Royal Academy of Fine Arts in Antwerp. Or stop off at one of the beautiful cafés – it is there that the city will give you a sense of what it is all about. Simply adorable.

We love Maastricht. And not without good reason, of course. 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 Stokstraat and Wolfstraat with super exciting fashion in small shops. And, of course, Maastricht has much more than that. There is the oldest brewery here with an interior that is over 100 years old, the beer tastes delicious. And then there is Bisshopsmolen, the oldest working watermill in Holland. 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. So casual.

Our ship on the river Rhine

Riverside debussy.

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. 

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Once aboard you will have every opportunity to find yourself., we look forward to welcoming you.

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TravelPulse

Riviera River Cruises to Offer Longer, Back-to-Back Itineraries in 2025

Riviera River Cruises will offer new, longer itineraries in 2025, with cruises ranging from 15 to 29 days long.

Passengers will be able to spend more time exploring Europe’s Danube, Moselle and Rhine rivers—without needing to change ships—by combining two sailings into one. The longest of the new itineraries is the “Grand Cruise Through the Heart of Europe to the Black Sea,” which includes 27 visits and tours. 

“An increasing number of travelers has been asking us about longer cruises, with some even booking two in a row—we’ve taken the cue from them and created these new ‘back-to-back’ itineraries for 2025,” says Marilyn Conroy, Riviera River Cruises’ executive vice president of sales and marketing for North America Sales.

“These itineraries allow travelers to enjoy cruising Europe with us from two weeks to nearly a month," Conroy continued.

The cruise line is also rolling out three new river cruises designed exclusively for solo travelers, including two holiday sailings that will visit European Christmas markets. On those voyages, solo passengers won’t have to pay a single supplement.

Riviera River Cruises is also planning to expand its fleet next year , with two new ships under construction. Riviera Radiance will sail the Danube River , while Riviera Rose will whisk travelers along the Douro River.

MS Geoffrey Chaucer

CAPTURED TRAVEL

Cruise Review: Riviera Travel – Rhine River Cruise

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The Rhine River in Germany evokes romantic feelings, with each twist and turn taking you further into a fairy-tale land voyage. The banks are full of picturesque castles, quaint towns with towering cathedrals and formidable fortresses presiding over the river from the surrounding hilltops.

In the early morning, when a dawn mist wafts gently over the river, you can hear the sound of the birds twitter cheerfully from the riverbanks. Breaking through the mist are castles and ruins of heavenly towers. As the day breaks and the first rays of sunshine shimmer on the gently flowing waters of the Rhine, the sun’s sparkling highlights bounce off the fine droplets of dew covering the vineyards.

The magical and romantic atmosphere of the Rhine is almost impossible to resist. Even around 200 years ago, painters and poets of the Romantic period discovered the fairy-tale beauty of these river landscapes between Lake Constance and the Dutch border. Philosopher Friedrich von Schlegel was impressed by the “proud castles on wild cliffs”, while poet Heinrich von Kleist spoke of the “most beautiful expanse of land in Germany where our great gardeners have so clearly worked con amore”.

Painters such as William Turner picked up their brushes to capture the magic of these landscapes for posterity. Poets including Friedrich Hölderlin and Heinrich Heine were inspired to pen lyrical verses. With artists in the role of pioneers, the Rhine’s reputation as a travel destination grew. By the start of the 19th century, a visit to the Rhine region was the highlight of the “grand tours” by English high society.

riverboat cruise on the rhine

The sight of the Middle Rhine between Bingen and Bonn, carving a narrow passage through the Rheinish Slate Mountains, with vine-covered slopes, knight’s castles, magnificent palaces and quaint fishing villages thrilled the hearts of the early romantics. Today, the Upper Middle Rhine Valley from Bingen to Koblenz is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Lorelei and the legendary slate rock near St. Goarshausen, on which the blonde-haired woman is said to have sat, are the epitome of Rhine romance. The legend was invented by poet Clemens Brentano, and made famous by his literary colleague Heinrich Heine. In the version widely known today, the hapless maiden sits high on a rock, combing her blonde hair and waiting for ships that she can lure to their doom. She is wreaking revenge on her lover, who had betrayed her and attempted to escape on the Rhine. The story also has a very real background.

riverboat cruise on the rhine

The place where Lorelei is said to have wreaked her mischief sits at the narrowest and most hazardous point of the Rhine, and in days gone by countless mariners capsized here in their compact flat wooden boats known as “barks”. Today, the 132-metre-high Lorelei slate rock is a viewpoint with a visitors’ centre. Breathtaking panoramic views over the Rhine Valley, the towns of St. Goarshausen with Katz Castle, and the neighbouring town of St. Goar and Rheinfels Castle are guaranteed.

riverboat cruise on the rhine

There is no better way to experience this captivating river region than with Riviera Travel on board a river cruise. The 8-day Rhine, Strasbourg and Heidelberg cruise on MS George Eliot takes you on the Rhine River to explore on guided tours including Strasbourg, Heidelberg, Cologne, Rüdesheim, Boppard, Mainz and Koblenz, and a visit to Colmar.

With all cabins boasting river views, you only need to unpack once while visiting multiple destinations. Everything is taken care of with all meals on board from dinner on your day of arrival through to breakfast on your day of departure, welcome cocktails, a welcome dinner and the Captain’s Dinner.

If you are travelling solo, there are exclusive deals so you won’t feel left out, and between the other guests onboard and the friendly staff, you will never be alone.

riverboat cruise on the rhine

Cruise Itinerary Name: Rhine, Strasbourg and Heidelberg departing on 05 October 2022

Cruise Ship: MS George Eliot – Built in 2019 – 36 Crew – 132 Passengers – 5 Star Rating

Departing From: Cologne

Cruising To: Cologne on the Rhine River

Ports of Call: Koblenz, Boppard, Mainz, Mannheim, Heidelberg, Speyer, Strasbourg, Colmar, Rüdesheim, Cologne

Cabin Booked: Diamond Deck (Upper), Cabin Number – 307

riverboat cruise on the rhine

Before your departure, Riviera Travel provides you with a detailed portfolio of your cruise. This includes the ship’s contact details, a map of the arrival port and how to get there, the daily itinerary and useful information like health regulations, money, phone, what to pack and more.

Checking in is done on the day onboard the ship, where you will receive your cruise card used as a room key and for going on and off the ship. Guests are asked to contact the ship on the arrival day to re-confirm the mooring point, as these are occasionally subject to change. In this instance, we were told that the ship had not reached the embarkation point on the day and we were to embark at a different city location. The Riviera Travel and ship staff were fantastic in keeping us up to date on this, contacting us constantly via phone and messages.

riverboat cruise on the rhine

The five-star MS George Eliot gets her name from one of the leading English novelists of the 19th century. Measuring 110 meters long, the ship is like a luxury floating hotel with its elegant lobby and marble floor. Its exquisite furnishings include sustainable hardwood furniture, intricate wrought-iron work, polished copper and brass railings, soft leather seating and tasteful Italian fabrics.

With different seating areas, inside and outside, there is plenty of space to relax and enjoy your voyage.

The five-star ship is further enhanced by the five-star service from the English-speaking crew and knowledgeable local guides, including the Riviera Travel cruise director and concierge. In total, there are 36 staff onboard and when full, just 132 guests, making it an intimate cruising experience.

From anywhere on the ship, you have views of the spectacular scenery so you won’t miss a thing. I found the best place to get 360-degree views was the top deck. Here there is plenty of seating ranging from deck chairs to sofa lounges. There is even a plunge pool (heated) and a mini golf course for added entertainment.

Although it is a luxury cruise, there is a casual approach to the dress code with smart/casual acceptable. For those who like to dress up, the Captain’s Dinner offers the opportunity to wear dressier attire.

The electrical sockets on board are all European electrical sockets, 220 volts (except for the socket in your bathroom, which is both 120 and 230 volts). There is a gift shop onboard where you can purchase souvenirs and even a hairdresser, with bookings essential.

riverboat cruise on the rhine

Cruising on MS George Eliot is a full-board service, with all meals included. You can purchase a drinks package, allowing the choice of draught beer, non-alcoholic beer, soft drinks, juices, red, white and rosé house wines; and recommended wines from the menu, all by the glass. Drinks on this package are available with lunch and dinner in the ship’s restaurants. Any drinks not listed above along with all drinks ordered in the bar are charged to your onboard account.

In the morning a full buffet breakfast is available, lunch is a buffet and dinner is served a la carte – all on a free seating policy. The welcome dinner and the captain’s dinner are served at a single sitting, whereas other dining times may vary according to your itinerary and daily excursions. The ship caters for most dietary requirements and a vegan menu is always available.

riverboat cruise on the rhine

Located on the Diamond Deck (Upper), the Standard cabin is one of the Riviera Plus cabins (upper deck cabin, deluxe or superior suite). These include a little touch of extra luxury with L’Occitane en Provence toiletries in your bathroom, a bottle of chilled prosecco on arrival, a platter of fresh seasonal fruits during the cruise and drink vouchers each evening for a drink outside of the restaurants.

The cabin features floor-to-ceiling glass doors that slide away to create a French balcony to enjoy panoramic river views. At 16 square metres in size, these cabins are spacious and even include a small table and chairs alongside the giant double bed. The bathroom is just as spacious with plenty of room to shower and move around.

Also in the cabin is a smart handset, which is like a mobile phone, loaded with maps, a translator and currency converter and unlimited internet use. This helps when going ashore and using it as a wifi dongle when away from the ship wifi.

In total, there are 70 suites and cabins, which all feature an en-suite bathroom with shower, individually controlled air-conditioning, flat-screen TV, hairdryer, safe, minibar, telephone and facilities for making tea and coffee.

riverboat cruise on the rhine

The itinerary begins in Cologne and journeys south to the historic town of Koblenz, sitting at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers before continuing to the beautiful old town of Boppard.  It is then time to wind through the beautiful world-famous Rhine Gorge onto Mainz, which is famous for the ‘Gutenberg’ Bibles. Taking in a guided tour of stunning Heidelberg, this journey follows the route of Europe’s ‘Grand Tour’, nestled by the picturesque river Neckar.

Crossing over from Germany into France, the next stop is Strasbourg, a city with its centre largely unchanged since the 14th century. Wander through the mosaic of winding alleys and lanes lined with quirkily crooked, half-timbered houses. Learn about the history of Strasbourg, which has been both German and French, and today you can see this influence in its language, cuisine and appearance, creating a truly individual city. A stop at Colmar is always a favourite, as this quaint medieval Alsatian town oozes perfection.

Returning downstream of the Rhine, the stops take in Rudesheim before continuing through the Rhine Gorge again to Cologne.

riverboat cruise on the rhine

  • Don’t forget to pack your swimwear as there is a plunge pool on the top deck that is heated – making it an ideal place for a dip while watching the scenery go by.
  • I also recommend spending the day on the top deck when passing through Rhine Gorge as there is a high concentration of historical structures in this region.
  • Lastly, don’t miss the famous Lorelei and the legendary slate rock near St. Goarshausen, on which the blonde-haired woman is said to have sat, singing sailors to their watery grave.

riverboat cruise on the rhine

To book your Riviera Travel cruise, you can contact them directly at the below details or visit your preferred travel agent to book.

Website: https://www.rivieratravel.com.au/

Phone Number: 1300 857 437

The writer cruised as a guest of Riviera Travel. These opinions and words are a true representation of their experience and have not been endorsed.

Disclosure: The writer Kate cruised as a guest of Riviera Travel. These opinions and words are a true representation of their experience and have not been endorsed.

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Kate Webster

Kate Webster is the founder and owner of Captured Travel Media. She is a world traveller, ocean lover and conservation warrior who is determined to make every moment count for not only herself, but the world around her. An editor and travel journalist, Kate travels the globe in search of vivid imagery and compelling stories that capture the essence of the people and places she visits. She is a passionate conservation advocate, sustainable traveller and always travels with reason and cause.

Great article, Kate. Brings back memories of my trip to the Rhine region pre Covid. Wonderful experience. ❤️

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The Rhine, Swiss Alps & Amsterdam

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Uniquely Tauck

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EXPERIENCE WITH TAUCK

TAUCK EXCLUSIVE – Reception at the Unterlinden Museum in Colmar

TAUCK EXCLUSIVE – Dinner and entertainment at Schloss Ehreshoven, a German castle dating back to the 15th century

TAUCK VALUE INCLUDES

Tauck's private shore excursions and distinctive inclusions valued at $4,377

Two nights at the Hotel Bellevue Bern, with choice of a cogwheel train excursion to the Jungfraujoch, or a chocolate-themed walking tour of Bern

Choice of bicycle excursion in Baden-Baden

A guided visit to Amsterdam's Rijksmuseum, plus a canal boat cruise

SEE WHAT YOUR JOURNEY INCLUDES

Guests should be able to easily walk one to two miles, which may include climbing one or two flights of stairs and walking over uneven pavement, groomed hiking trails or cobblestones. Standing up to one hour or more may be required.

Moderately paced, and may include some early morning hotel departures, one or two on-tour flights, and extended motor coach travel.

Exclusively inclusive river cruising

Follow the romantic Rhine River on its winding journey through Central Europe, taking in the sights, history and culture of Germany, Switzerland, The Netherlands and France, as your riverboat glides along the river.

Old world europe – rhine river cruises, tauck exclusive – evening at schloss ehreshoven, enjoy an elegant dinner and tour at schloss ehreshoven.

Built in the 14th century and later expanded in the grand style of a Baroque manor house, Schloss Ehreshoven is surrounded by gracious 18th-century French gardens and a castle park. For nearly a century the castle has been the heart of a charitable foundation whose main mission includes providing a home for unmarried aristocratic ladies without means in their golden years. Frequently used as a location for movies and TV shows, the Schloss provides an elegant setting for Tauck's exclusive cocktail reception and dinner, hosted by a member of the family.

Bellevue Palace Bern

More than a century of history in the shadow of the alps.

The only grand hotel in the heart of Switzerland's capital, Bellevue Palace Bern a national institution – the official guest house of the Swiss government for over 150 years, in fact. Whether you arrive for a romantic weekend, an eventful holiday or an official visit, the hotel's stylish and discreetly luxurious rooms and suites leave nothing to be desired. All offer classically elegant furnishings combined with modern-day comforts, harmonious colors and stunning views. Thanks to our hospitality, you are sure to feel at home.

The officers and crew were totally outstanding professionals. We were treated like royalty. The Tour Directors were exceptionally knowledgeable, personable and great!

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riverboat cruise on the rhine

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Travel Documents

If you are a U.S. citizen traveling internationally , you will need a passport valid for six months beyond the completion of your Tauck journey for entry into the Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland and France. You are not required to obtain a visa to enter any country visited for the short duration of this tour.

If you are a citizen of another country traveling internationally , you should contact a consulate or embassy of the Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland, and France to determine what travel documentation is required.

Please Note: Longer stays abroad for any purpose may require additional travel documentation.

We recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents are misplaced, lost or stolen.

To facilitate Travel Requirements, destinations are increasingly utilizing online forms that require digital proof that you've successfully completed your submission (via an email, QR code, etc.) To ensure smooth travels and peace of mind, we strongly recommend all guests carry a personal smart phone and sign up for international data plans before traveling overseas.

Cruise Regulations – International maritime security guidelines require that your passport information be provided to us prior to your embarkation. You need to provide this information to us as soon as you book your cruise or boarding may be denied. Once you board the riverboat, your passport will be held by the purser temporarily to make copies.

TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN AS A GUARDIAN: If you are traveling as the guardian of a child/children, we strongly suggest that you carry a letter from both parents of the child authorizing emergency treatment in the event of illness or accident. For travel abroad, many foreign countries have specific entry requirements for children under 21 who are traveling internationally without BOTH parents. (These requirements are in response to the increased incidence of children being abducted and taken abroad.) PLEASE NOTE THAT TAUCK IS NOT RESPONSIBLE for the disruption of travel caused by improper documentation for children traveling without both parents.

How to Book a Tour

See your travel advisor, or call Tauck at 800-468-2825 to make a reservation.

At the time of booking, please have the following information ready for all members of your party:

  • Tour Name and Departure Date
  • Traveler's Name: First and last names as they appear on your passport or driver's license
  • Traveler's Address(es)
  • Email Address*
  • Traveler's Phone Number(s)*
  • Emergency Contact Information: Please provide the name and phone number  of a relative or friend (not travelling with you) whom we could contact during the tour in the unlikely event of an emergency
  • Interest in purchasing a travel protection plan (US and Canada)
  • Interest in extending your trip by staying in a Tauck recommended hotel before your trip begins or after it ends
  • Interest in our specially negotiated airfares

* Required Fields

Deposits & Final Payment

The deposit and the fees for the optional Protection Plan or Cancel Fee Waiver [CFW] coverage are due at time of booking.

The deposit amount is $900 per person

Final Payments:

Final Payment is due to Tauck  60  days before departure for lands trips, and  120  days before departure for cruises and rail journeys. If your deposit was made by credit card, final payment will be automatic unless you opted out at time of booking. Bookings without full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice. Failure to make payment will be a considered a cancellation by the guest and all applicable cancellation fees will apply.

Cruise Protection Plan

Effective for plans purchased as of July 1, 2021:

Tauck's Cruise and Event Protection

Tauck's Cruise & Event Protection provides you with cancellation protection before your journey begins as well as insurance benefits while you are traveling. It must be purchased within 10 days of your initial deposit. Guest Protection includes the following:

Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck:

Under Tauck's Cancellation Fee Waiver you can cancel your tour for ANY REASON and Tauck will  reduce the regular cancellation fees outlined herein, provided we are notified of cancellation before your cruise departs. Certain terms and restrictions apply (see below*).

*Extreme Circumstances:  In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey.  Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company.

  • Trip Cancellation –  Should you cancel for covered reasons, the plan reimburses cancellation fees imposed, up to your total trip cost. 
  • Trip Interruption –  If you have to interrupt your tour for covered reasons, the plan provides reimbursement to catch up to your tour or return home.
  • Travel Delay –  Provides reimbursement for missed, prepaid travel arrangements if you are delayed by a common carrier, natural disaster, unannounced strike, or other reasons as cited in the plan.
  • Medical Expense –  Reimburses covered medical expenses incurred in the event you become injured or sick during your trip. 
  • Baggage / Personal Effects Protection –  Provides reimbursement in the event your luggage or personal effects are, lost, stolen, damaged or delayed during your trip.

Worldwide Emergency Assistance Services –  Provided by Carefree Travel Assistance; 24-hour emergency telephone assistance hotline for medical and travel related problems.

The cost of Tauck's Cruise and Event Protection is:   $799   per person

This plan provides cancellation coverage for your trip and other insurance coverages that apply only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

This optional Cruise and Event Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included in initial payment. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your reservation. Cruise and Event Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.

To obtain your state-specific Certificate of Insurance that contains the complete terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the certificate, visit  affinitytravelcert.com/docs/TACCREINTL

If You Have To Cancel

If you cancel within 10 days of initial deposit

Within the first 10 days after you place your initial deposit, you may cancel your reservation for any reason with no cancellation fees.

If you cancel more than 10 days after initial deposit

Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. These fees vary from tour to tour. Therefore, the following fees apply for this tour.

Cancellation Fees with Tauck's Cruise Protection Plan:

120 days or more before departure: Loss of cost of Tauck's Cruise and Event Protection fee per person 119 – 60 days before departure: Loss of 25% of the cost of the cruise, not including air (if applicable), plus loss of Cruise and Event Protection fee, per person 59 – 1 days before departure: Loss of 50% of the cost of the cruise, not including air (if applicable), plus loss of Cruise and Event Protection fee, per person Cancellation Fees without Tauck's Cruise Protection Plan: 120 days or more before departure: $900 per person 119 – 60 days before departure: Loss of 50% of the cost of cruise, not including air (if applicable), per person 59 - 1 days before departure: Loss of 100% of the cost of cruise, not including air (if applicable), per person Time of cancellation will be when notice is received in our Wilton Woods, CT office.

Tour Interruption Fees

If you have to interrupt your tour en route, you may be entitled to a refund for the unused land portion if it exceeds 24 hours; certain restrictions apply. Such refunds are based upon the number of overnights missed less a fee of $40 per person per day for unused transportation and other fixed expenses.

Partial Room Cancellation

A person who cancels or leaves a tour while a roommate remains constitutes a cancellation of one type of accommodation and rebooking of another type of accommodation. The price charged to the remaining person is the new, higher price for the new accommodation.

In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control, Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation and transfer terms outlined herein. Note: All Guests, regardless of residency, who book a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing the Cancellation Waiver provided by Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck's Cruise & Event Protection, which includes both the Cancellation Fee Waiver and the Travel Insurance Benefits and Assistance Services described above, is not available to residents of Puerto Rico.

Travel Terms and Conditions

Click here  to find Tauck's Travel Terms & Conditions.

Travel Requirements For This Tour

Air Information and Luggage Restrictions

AIRFARE: Airfare to and from this destination is not included in the journey cost. If purchasing your air elsewhere, it is very important to provide us with your confirmed arriving and departing flight information no later than 3 weeks before your arrival date. Flight information can be submitted to Tauck (or verified, if you've already provided it) in the My Account section of Tauck.com.

TAUCK AIRPORT TRANSFERS are included at the start and end of the journey between the airport and the Tauck hotel. Airport transfers are available for any pre tour or post tour hotel stays immediately consecutive to the tour, providing flight information is received in the Tauck office no later than three weeks in advance. Details on locating your transfer upon arrival to the tour start city will be included in your final documents.

AIRLINES and CHECKED LUGGAGE: Due to space limitations during your Tauck journey, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one average-size suitcase per person. Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and are free to revise luggage policies without notice. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies. PLEASE NOTE that if you are booked on a tour that includes on-tour flights, the checked luggage weight restrictions for these flights may be lower than the weight restrictions for your international flights.

Checked Luggage – General

Due to space restrictions, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one suitcase per person weighing no more than 50 pounds (23 kg) and with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 62 inches (158 cm).

Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and luggage exceeding airline standards for size or weight may result in expensive overage fees or other consequences.

Airlines are free to revise luggage policies without notice, and certain airlines have different baggage allowances for different classes of service. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies.

Tauck luggage tags will be provided by your Tauck Director on Day 1 of your itinerary. Please do not attach a Tauck luggage tag to any carry-on items, as the Tauck tags designate luggage that is to be handled and transferred by ground operators and hotel staff during your journey.

Although oversize bags and wheeled, carry-on luggage are popular for airline travel, they are often not convenient or appropriate for motor coach travel or for many on-tour flights. Most modern sightseeing motor coaches offer limited space for numerous or larger items. Space under seats or in the overhead rack is typically small, and designed to accommodate items like coats, hats, purses, and small camera bags, etc.

For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and that you bring only those items you need handy during the day such as make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or on the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may be inaccessible during daytime travel.

Health, Safety and Mobility

HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS

Your riverboat is registered in Basel, Switzerland; ms Inspire is registered in Valletta, Malta. Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour. Please refer to the Tauck Travel Protection Product section above for details on the coverage we can offer you.

If you have a medical condition that might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify us as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly.

VACCINATIONS

If you are a resident of the U.S. , no other vaccinations are currently required for travel to the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, France or Switzerland. For complete vaccination and inoculation information, contact your physician, the public health service in your area, or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.A. The Travelers' Health Section of the CDC operates a 24-hour "Travelers' Health Hotline" at 800-232-4636 (toll-free in the U.S.). You may also log on to the CDC website by clicking here .

If you are a resident of another country ,  please contact an embassy or consulate of the Netherlands, Germany, Luxembourg, France and  Switzerland to determine what vaccination(s) may be required for you to visit.

While a tour from Bern to Amsterdam is very relaxing and the pace leisurely, to enjoy all the tour has to offer, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances, often over unpaved and uneven surfaces. Some of the most memorable sightseeing can only be accomplished on foot. There is a moderate to significant amount of walking during our excursions, often along cobblestone streets, and at many sites there are multiple stairs or steps; for the most part, however, the amount of walking you do is at your discretion.

Your riverboat has four decks: Sun, Diamond, Ruby and Emerald. The elevator runs between the Diamond Deck and Emerald Deck; there is not elevator access to the Sun Deck. There is no chair lift between any of the decks.

Because you will be cruising on a river and not on the open sea, you are never far from land and, therefore, there is no doctor onboard the riverboat. In case of emergency, we can easily dock the boat and call for an ambulance or medical assistance.

PLEASE NOTE:  We regret that this Tauck itinerary cannot accommodate wheelchairs or motorized scooters.  Likewise, we regret that we're unable to provide individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other personal needs.  The responsibility of the Tauck Director who accompanies your trip is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest.  Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it.

Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate service animals on any river cruise for medical and legal reasons.

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUESTS

The restaurants, hotels, caterers and numerous other partners we work with all do their best to accommodate special dietary requests from Tauck guests. However, given the diverse nature of those food providers (from small wineries to grand hotels to world-famous restaurants in more than 70 countries worldwide), some of our partners are better able than others to accommodate such requests. We therefore cannot guarantee that all dietary requests can be accommodated at every meal. Also, please note that where dietary requests can be accommodated, choices will frequently be limited.

On board the riverboat, smoking is permitted in a limited area of the Sun deck. Smoking (including e-Cigarettes) is not permitted in any cabin, the restaurant, the lounge or any other interior space.

Reading List

We have compiled a reading list of recommended books to give you more information about the destinations you will be traveling to on your upcoming journey!

You can view the reading list  here.

The climate along the Rhine is temperate and unpredictable. From May through October, the average high temperatures increase as you travel south along the rivers and range from average high temperatures of 63 to 71 °F (17 to 22 °C) in Amsterdam to 67 to 78 °F (19 to 26 °C) in Basel. The average low temperatures increase from 45 to 53 °F (7 to 12 °C) in Amsterdam to 48 to 57 °F (9 to 14 °C) in Basel. Rainfall amounts are moderate in this region and remain constant throughout the year, although late spring and early summer are generally the wetter seasons of the year. Opposite of temperature, rainfall decreases as you reach Basel.

To read about current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website, noaa.gov , by clicking here.

What To Pack

Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – we've partnered with Necessary Gear who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip. Click here to visit their site .

Your journey is designed with leisure in mind. Dress for comfort and convenience with a wardrobe that is flexible and allows for layering. Casual, cotton clothing is recommended. A light jacket or sweater for the sun deck is also recommended.  Pack comfortable yet sturdy walking shoes that have already been broken-in, as many of the sites visited were built centuries ago and have uneven surfaces, some steep inclines and many steps.

During evenings aboard the riverboat, dress is resort casual.  Items such as slacks and collared shirts are appropriate for men.  For women, slacks, a dress or a skirt and blouse are suitable.  For dinner and throughout the evening, guests should refrain from wearing shorts, t-shirts, flip-flops or sneakers. Your journey also includes one or two special occasion dinners, where a sport coat and tie for gentlemen and a dress/pantsuit for ladies are suggested.  (Your Tauck Director will advise you prior to those evenings.)

Bathrobes, slippers and hairdryers are provided in each cabin.

Valet laundry service is available on the riverboat for a fee. There is no valet dry cleaning available on the riverboat. Ironing facilities are available by request to the front desk. Category 7 suites feature their own irons and ironing boards.

We recommend that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medication in its original container to last through your entire journey, together with a copy of your doctor's prescription or a letter from your health-care provider on office stationery explaining that the medication has been prescribed for you, a list of the generic names of your medication, your travel documents and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag to avoid any inconvenience in the event that your flight or luggage is delayed. No medications are sold on board the riverboat.

Following is a list of recommended items to pack for your cruise:

  • Flat, rubber-soled walking shoes for onboard the ship
  • Comfortable yet sturdy walking shoes that have already been broken-in
  • Casual daytime wear – shorts, slacks, long and short-sleeved shirts
  • An optional jacket and tie for men
  • Casually elegant evening wear for ladies
  • Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat
  • A light sweater or jacket for higher elevations or a breezy night
  • Camera, lenses, batteries, memory cards and chargers
  • Travel alarm clock/ cell phone with alarm functions (many hotels do not have clocks in the rooms)
  • Rain poncho and collapsible umbrella
  • Reusable zipper-lock bags or other waterproof bags
  • Daypack for camera equipment
  • Sundries and toiletries that may be difficult to find en route
  • Copies of your travel documents that should be secured in the safe in your ship cabin while traveling

The Tauck Experience

Tauck's River Cruise Guide

Rhine river facts, first timer's guide, why take a tauck river cruise, choosing the best european river cruise for you.

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TravelAwaits

Our mission is to serve the 50+ traveler who's ready to cross a few items off their bucket list.

11 Most Memorable Experiences On My AmaWaterways Rhine River Cruise

riverboat cruise on the rhine

  • Cruises and Sailing
  • Destinations
  • River Cruises
  • Types of Travel

The Rhine River is the setting for one of Europe’s most popular river cruise itineraries. Typically sailing the length of the river between Amsterdam and Basel, these enchanting Rhine River cruises visit the Netherlands, Germany, France, and Switzerland. This memorable journey of discovery is a rich cocktail of delights perfectly suited for those who love spectacular scenery, history, culture, wine, and outstanding cuisine.

Cruises along the legendary Rhine are filled with centuries-old castles, Gothic cathedrals, terraced vineyards, storybook villages, meandering canals, and culinary delights. There’s so much to see and do along this route, as I was able to experience recently with AmaWaterways . The award-winning, family owned and operated cruise line is celebrating its 20th anniversary and offers highly immersive river cruises on many of the world’s most scenic waterways, including the Rhine. 

AmaWaterways’ newest ship

AmaWaterways invited me to be their guest to sail their 7-night Captivating Rhine itinerary from Amsterdam to Basel, Switzerland, on their newest ship, AmaLucia . This floating luxury boutique hotel is filled with amenities, including a panoramic lounge, an expansive sun deck with a pool and walking track, complimentary bicycles, and daily wellness activities. All accommodations are spacious outside staterooms, and the majority have AmaWaterways’ signature twin balconies. AmaLucia also offers multiple connecting cabins as well as triple and quad accommodations, which are ideal for families and multigenerational groups.

Our sailing offered a wealth of opportunities to be immersed in the history, culture, and landscapes of Europe. All 21 enriching excursions offered on our AmaLucia voyage were included in the cruise fare, and two to four tours were available in each port of call. This luxury of choice is particularly appealing for those traveling with family members or a group of people who may have different interests and activity levels. Guests can explore at their own speed, with most walking tours available at gentle, regular, and active paces. Guided hiking and biking excursions are also featured. The tour options were excellent, and I often wished I could clone myself so I could experience multiple tours offered simultaneously.

My AmaWaterways Rhine River cruise was filled with so many fabulous moments that it’s hard to pick favorites. Here are 11 of my most memorable experiences:

Historic castles line the river in Germany

1. Marveling At Castles Along The Rhine

Sailing through the dramatic Rhine Gorge, a roughly 40-mile stretch between Koblenz and Rüdesheim, was an unforgettable highlight of my Rhine river cruise. The Upper Middle Rhine Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with historic castles , palaces, fortresses, and legends. 

Standing on AmaLucia ’s sun deck, I was mesmerized by the awe-inspiring scenery complete with picturesque towns, hillside vineyards, and 30 stunning castles and fortresses lining the river. Our knowledgeable cruise manager provided expert commentary on the Upper Middle Rhine Valley’s castles, the area’s stories and legends, the massive Loreley Rock, and the iconic statue that bears the siren’s name. The crew made the experience even more memorable by serving Rüdesheimer coffee (more on this adult beverage later) and an elaborate barbeque lunch on the sun deck.

Pro Tip: Get AmaWaterways’ Castle Cruiser map and plan to be up on the top deck early before your ship starts sailing past the first castle. Double-check the exact timing with your cruise manager so you won’t miss a moment of this experience.

amawaterways in France

2. Savoring Exceptional Cuisine

AmaWaterways is known for delivering memorable dining experiences , and it is a member of La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs, one of the world’s most prestigious invitation-only culinary organizations. 

I was impressed with the consistently high quality of our meals and the personalized, attentive service on the AmaLucia . AmaLucia’s dining areas include the Main Restaurant, the panoramic Al Fresco Terrace, and the elegant Chef’s Table complimentary dining venue. The Chef’s Table is a reservation-only gourmet culinary experience featuring an exquisite multi-course tasting menu paired with complimentary wines. The Main Restaurant serves three mouthwatering meals daily, with menus featuring fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and regional cuisine, including exceptional meats and seafood. Wines, beer, and soft drinks are complimentary with meals, and a tapas menu is available in the lounge. 

The AmaLucia staff did an excellent job dealing with food allergies, and they surprised their guests with unannounced treats like gelato parties and other delights during our cruise. 

Pro Tips: Make reservations for The Chef’s Table at the reception desk on embarkation day.

3. Strolling And Shopping In Strasbourg

I fell in love with this “Gem of the Alsace,” a historic city that blends both French and German cultures. Strasbourg’s Grande-Île, an urban island created by a tributary of the Rhine and a canal, is a UNESCO World Heritage site filled with cobblestone streets, enticing shops, and sidewalk cafes. 

I enjoyed visiting centuries-old Gothic Strasbourg Cathedral, with its magnificent astronomical clock; sampling Alsatian cuisine; and strolling through the enchanting Petite France district, with its quaint half-timbered buildings and flower-bedecked bridges. Shopping at boutiques along the Rue du Dôme, the Rue des Juifs, and in Petite France was a treat.

Pro Tip: If you’re planning to go shopping, take your passport with you for possible value-added-tax refunds if you might make large purchases in one or two stores. A photo of your passport often works.

AmaLucia’s sun deck

4. Watching The World Go By

Some of the best moments of my AmaWaterways river cruise were spent on our ship, simply relaxing and enjoying the breathtaking scenery. It’s rare to have this kind of pleasurable downtime, and our floating luxury hotel provided front-row seats for the Rhine’s spectacular show. 

My AmaLucia stateroom featured AmaWaterways’ signature twin balconies, providing beautiful views from both the French balcony and a full-size veranda equipped with comfortable chairs. 

AmaLucia ’s sun deck is another great place to watch the Rhine’s ever-changing landscapes. The sun deck offers loungers in both sun and shade, and a large seating area at the bow is equipped with comfortable couches, tables, and chairs perfect for taking in the panoramic scenic views.

Pro Tip: Have breakfast or lunch at the Al Fresco Terrace at least once during your cruise. The views are amazing, and it’s a choice spot to watch your ship pass through the Rhine River locks.

Strolling down Drosselgasse during the evening in Rüdesheim am Rhein, Germany

5. Enjoying Rüdesheim After Dark

Rüdesheim am Rhein is one of Germany’s most picturesque wine areas. Guests can soar above the vineyards on a gondola ride to the hilltop Niederwald Monument, join a wine tasting, visit the unique Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet museum, and take a guided biking or hiking tour. 

I enjoyed sampling local wines and viewing the terraced vineyards, but one of my favorite experiences was exploring Rüdesheim after dark. This quaint town comes alive at night. We strolled around the Old Town and down Drosselgasse, a narrow cobblestone street lined with restaurants, wine bars, taverns, and boutiques. Our group listened to live music and visited the Rüdesheimer Schloss for authentic Rüdesheimer coffee , a potent beverage made with local Asbach brandy and sugar and topped with whipped cream and chocolate shavings. It was an enchanting evening.

Pro Tip: AmaWaterways provides free tourist train rides for easy access to Rüdesheim’s Old Town area. Wear sturdy shoes, since the cobblestone streets can be hilly and uneven.  

River cruise guests

6. Interacting With Our Fantastic On-Board Community

AmaLucia offers an environment of casual luxury, along with an incredibly welcoming staff. It was fantastic to spend time relaxing on board and enjoying the ship’s amenities, exceptional cuisine, personalized service, and vibrant onboard community. 

The AmaWaterways team created fantastic camaraderie on our cruise, encouraging close interaction with staff members and other guests. Guests come together to share stories at mealtimes and get to know each other better on shore excursions. We had fun with new friends in the evenings, enjoying the entertainment and dancing the night away in the Main Lounge and at parties on the sun deck.

Pro Tip: Plan to be at the ship’s daily Sip & Sail happy hour in the Main Lounge. It’s a great place to meet and mingle with other guests, and complimentary wine, beer, and spirits are served.   

The ruins of Heidelberg Castle

7. Exploring Historic Heidelberg

Our included tour of beautiful Heidelberg was a fabulous experience. This well-preserved city is set along the scenic Neckar River and is home to Germany’s oldest and most renowned university. We started by taking a guided visit through the ancient ruins of Heidelberg Castle, a royal Renaissance palace built with stunning red sandstone. The world-famous fortress towers above the Neckar Valley and its cellars contain the Heidelberg Tun, the world’s largest wine barrel. After touring the castle, we had plenty of time on our own to explore the Old City with its countless shops and boutiques, stroll along the waterfront, and relax at an outdoor café while sampling German beers.

Pro Tip: Walk across Heidelberg’s Old Bridge to enjoy dazzling views of iconic Heidelberg Castle, the Old City, and the Neckar River.

AmaWaterways Rhine River bike excursion

8. Amping Up Wellness And Staying Active

Most AmaWaterways river cruise ships have a professionally trained Wellness Host on board who leads complimentary yoga, Zumba, and other fitness activities throughout the journey. Active shore excursions, including guided bike tours and hikes, are also offered in ports of call. Guests who prefer riding in their spare time rather than taking a biking excursion can use AmaLucia ’s complimentary bicycles. 

I loved AmaLucia ’s activities and yoga classes and discovered flexibility I didn’t know I lacked. As a result of the superb wellness programs on AmaLucia , my husband and I have taken up yoga at home.

Pro Tip: AmaWaterways also offers very reasonably-priced massage services on their ships, and guests raved about their treatments. Make your appointments at the reception desk on embarkation day.

Amsterdam canal

9. Cruising Along Amsterdam’s Canals

Amsterdam is home to 165 canals, and a scenic canal cruise along these tree-lined waterways is a fantastic way to see the city’s centuries-old historical center and beautiful attractions. There’s so much to see and do in Amsterdam, so plan to spend several days here before or after your cruise. During our extended time in Amsterdam, we took a fabulous canal tour and visited the Van Gogh Museum, the Rijksmuseum, and the Floriade Expo, a world-renowned horticultural exhibition occurring once each decade. 

Pro Tip: AmaWaterways offers immersive, fully-escorted land packages in Amsterdam and Switzerland on their Rhine voyages. Guests highly recommended these convenient river cruise extensions.

Riquewihr

10. Discovering Enchanting Riquewihr

Surrounded by lush vineyards, idyllic Riquewihr is one of the most beautiful towns in France. Straight out of a fairytale, Riquewihr is a medieval French village said to have inspired animators creating Belle’s hometown in Disney’s Beauty and the Beast . This storybook village is filled with postcard-perfect half-timbered houses, cobblestone streets, charming shops and cafés, and structures dating back to the 13 th century. Riquewihr is known for producing outstanding wines, such as its exceptional riesling. We enjoyed relaxing at a delightful outdoor café and sampling local treats here.

Pro Tip: Riquewihr’s cobblestone streets can be uneven, and there’s a tourist train available if preferred. Make sure to try Les Macarons de Riquewihr at Maison Alsacienne De Biscuiterie . They’re delicious!

AmaLucia’s outdoor pool

11. Chilling Out In The Pool

When choosing your river cruise ship, consider the amenities that would make your vacation more pleasurable. Europe’s summers are often hot, so spending time in the pool is appealing. AmaLucia ’s sun deck features a lovely outdoor pool , and I was thrilled to kick back and cool down there during our cruise in July. Aqua aerobics are also offered here. The ship’s pool is heated, so it can still be wonderful to enjoy in the spring and fall.

Pro Tip: Head up to the pool in the evening. It was a fantastic place to relax while watching the sunset, then sit at the swim-up bar while stargazing later at night.

For more along the breathtaking Rhine River, check out:

  • 10 Fairytale Castles To Experience On Germany’s Middle Rhine
  • 11 Reasons Why We Love River Cruises In Europe
  • Danube River Cruise Vs. Rhine River Cruise: 7 Key Differences

Image of Nancy Schretter

Nancy is founder of the Family Travel Network, launched in partnership with America Online. She serves on the Board of the Family Travel Association and is a consultant and frequent presenter at top travel industry conferences and events. Nancy is a member of the North American Travel Journalists Association and the International Food, Wine, and Travel Writers Association. She was honored with the Family Travel Association's Mike Janes Media Member Award in 2022.

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    Best Long Cruise. Viking River Cruise - Grand European Tour Cruise. Four countries over 15 days; the be-all and end-all of a luxury Rhine cruise. Best Day Cruise. Siebengebirge Cruise: Cologne to Königswinter. Cramming some of the most beautiful parts of the German Rhine region into a 4-10 hour cruise.

  15. River Cruises on the Rhine

    A river cruise on the Rhine is suitable for every group of people. History and architecture fans can experience some of the oldest and best-preserved towns in Germany, Belgium and the Netherlands along the river. Connoisseurs will experience a real feast in the wine cellars of the Rhine towns and in the cities of Belgium.

  16. Rhine Family River Cruise

    Create cherished family memories on our unforgettable Basel to Amsterdam riverboat cruise along the Rhine River, exploring Switzerland, France, Germany and The Netherlands for an adventure unlike any other. Family travel experiences include a bicycle ride through forests and vineyards along the Rhine riverside; Swiss folklore and more in l...

  17. Treasures of the Rhine

    Cruise NEW! Treasures of the Rhine Discover the enchanting landscapes and rich cultures of the Middle Rhine, a UNESCO Site boasting turreted fortresses, grand cathedrals, medieval towns and stunning scenery. Admire terraced vineyards dating back to the Romans and taste the region's renowned red and white wines. Savor the culinary traditions of Alsace and explore Amsterdam, Basel and Cologne.

  18. Rhine Getaway

    Cruise Rhine Getaway Explore one of Europe's best-loved rivers. Discover the turreted fortresses, grand cathedrals, historic cities, medieval towns and stunning scenery of the Middle Rhine—a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Taste the region's renowned white wines, the roots of its terraced vineyards reaching back to Roman times.

  19. Rhine River Boat Cruises

    A Rhine River cruise offers an unparalleled experience, weaving through the picturesque landscapes and vibrant cities of Europe. From the medieval charm of Strasbourg to the bustling streets of Amsterdam, each destination along the Rhine tells a story. Marvel at the architectural wonders of Cologne, explore the historic depths of Heidelberg ...

  20. Rhine River Cruises

    Rhine River Cruises. 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 ...

  21. Luxury River Cruise on the Rhine

    The Rhine passes through over 1200 kilometres on its way from the Alps to the North Sea. Anyone who follows its course will travel through epochs and countries, and see fascinating cities and romantic castles. A river of poets and philosophers. For Victor Hugo, it was more rapid than the Rhône, as steeped in history as the Tiber and as royal ...

  22. NEW! Treasures of the Rhine

    Read all the details about the Treasures of the Rhine river cruise.Find ports, excursions, and attractions featured on this Viking cruise. Rivers; Oceans; Expeditions; Complimentary Brochures; Call Viking at 1-800-304-9616 or Contact Your Travel Advisor Amsterdam to Basel; Basel to Amsterdam ...

  23. Riviera River Cruises to Offer Longer, Back-to-Back Itineraries ...

    Riviera River Cruises will offer new, longer itineraries in 2025, with cruises ranging from 15 to 29 days long. Passengers will be able to spend more time exploring Europe's Danube, Moselle and ...

  24. Cruise Review: Riviera Travel

    Cruise Itinerary Name: Rhine, Strasbourg and Heidelberg departing on 05 October 2022. Cruise Ship: MS George Eliot - Built in 2019 - 36 Crew - 132 Passengers - 5 Star Rating. Departing From: Cologne. Cruising To: Cologne on the Rhine River. Ports of Call: Koblenz, Boppard, Mainz, Mannheim, Heidelberg, Speyer, Strasbourg, Colmar ...

  25. Rhine River Cruise with Amsterdam and Switzerland

    Follow the romantic Rhine River on its winding journey through Central Europe, taking in the sights, history and culture of Germany, Switzerland, The Netherlands and France, as your riverboat glides along the river. Experience medieval winetowns, cathedrals, castles, museums, and river landscapes of the kind that inspired JMW Turner and Richard ...

  26. 11 Most Memorable Experiences On My AmaWaterways Rhine River Cruise

    1. Marveling At Castles Along The Rhine. Sailing through the dramatic Rhine Gorge, a roughly 40-mile stretch between Koblenz and Rüdesheim, was an unforgettable highlight of my Rhine river cruise. The Upper Middle Rhine Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with historic castles, palaces, fortresses, and legends.