The Rhine River takes you into the heart of Europe, where storybook castles, fairytale villages and incredible scenic and historically rich experiences await. Flowing from the Swiss Alps to the North Sea, the Rhine winds through the Netherlands, Germany, France and Switzerland revealing historic treasures and vibrant capitals. The river’s two main tributaries are the Moselle River, flowing past dramatic vineyard-clad landscapes and medieval towns, and the Main River, winding through storybook villages and home to the impressive Main-Danube Canal.
Whether you want to explore medieval castles, cities brimming with art and culture or sip Riesling in verdant wine regions, the Rhine delivers an unforgettable journey. Here are 5 reasons to cruise the Rhine on your next getaway.
Flowing through dramatic landscapes, you’ll see terraced vineyards on steep hillsides, medieval castles perched on rocky outcrops and charming villages nestles along the riverbanks. The UNESCO World Heritage Middle Rhine Valley between Mainz and Cologne showcases some of Europe’s most incredible river scenery. Lorelei Rock is a well-known site steeped in Germanic folklore; the 430-foot slate cliff near St. Goarshausen is one of the most photographed spots on the Rhine.
Famous for its numerous castles and ruins—more than 40 between Mainz and Cologne alone—the Rhine offers a parade of historical sites to explore. The well-preserved Marksburg Castle sits dramatically above the town of Braubach. The medieval fortification has buildings dating back to the 13th through 15th centuries. The Rhine Gorge, where Rheinstein Castle is located, is known for its stunning landscapes and numerous castles and is part of the Rhine Gorge UNESCO World Heritage Site. The unique 14th-century Pfalzgrafenstein Castle sits on Falkenau Island, a small rocky outcrop in the middle of the Rhine near Kaub, Germany. The extraordinary location makes it appear to literally float on the water, but was selected for the castle’s original purpose of toll collection to passing boats.
Flowing through some of Germany’s most celebrated wine regions including the Rheingau and Moselle valleys, get ready to try some of Europe’s best wine. A Rhine River cruise not only offers incredible vistas of the grape growing regions, but opportunities for shore excursions to visit wineries, meet vintners, and experience tastings of exceptional Riesling, Gewürztraminers and other local varietals.
Each day of a Rhine River cruise presents new sights, and new villages to explore. Wake up to a picturesque medieval towns like Rüdesheim (famous for its wine taverns and music), and Bacharach with its half-timbered houses. Stroll the cobblestone streets, well-preserved architecture and experience local traditions that have endured for centuries. In the Alsace region of France, picturesque Colmar is known for its well-preserved medieval architecture, half-timbered houses and canals.
A Rhine River cruise will bring you to the doorstep of some of Europe’s most vibrant cities. Depending on your itinerary, you might visit major cultural centres including Cologne and its soaring Gothic cathedral (a UNESCO World Heritage site), the iconic canals of Amsterdam or Basel and its impressive art scene. In Strasbourg, a blend of French and German culture makes for a distinct cityscape waiting to be explored.
If you cruise during the season for Christmas markets, you’ll find local festivals, traditional music performances, and opportunities to experience authentic German, Dutch and Swiss holiday traditions.
Ready to cruise the Rhine on your next getaway?
