Use the pass as a one way ticket to get from one city to another, or maybe you prefer to use it as a return trip to spend a day elsewhere along the river, the choice is yours!
The paddle steamer cruise on the Nostalgic Route allows you to enjoy the Rhine Valley with its numerous beautiful castles, endless vineyards, the Loreley and much, much more. This is a fantastic alternative to rail travel, while viewing the Rhine Valley from it's best vantage point - the Rhine itself!
One day Rhine Pass, featuring the Nostalgic Route
All taxes, fees and handling charges
Food and drinks, unless specified
Confirmation will be received at time of booking
Restaurant available onboard
The Rhine Pass is valid on all scheduled KD day cruises except special theme cruises and cruises including gastronomic service
Child prices are available for children aged 4 to 13 years (approximately EUR 6.00 per child). This is payable direct to the supplier on date of travel.
Infants aged 3 years and under travel free of charge
An amazing time on the boat, the slow moving boat gives you time see all the sights, the towns castles and more, fall colors where wonderful, i would recommend this cruise, plenty of room on the boat, we even ate on the boat, the food was good.
Tour operator had people arriving at the same time at our meeting location. He had to take the people with one half day trips to Neuschwanstein Castle first. He said he would be right back. He shows up at 9:20 am tour was supposed to start at 9:00. We had to go back to the castle to drop off two more people with one-half day trips. Now we are an hour late for our all day tour. The first stop was supposed to be Linderhof Palace. The route we took had a bridge that was out and this caused us another 45 minute delay to go around the mountain in a different direction. We toured the castle and when we returned, he said that he could only drive us through Oberammergau because of delays and the fact that our tour at Neuschwanstein castle was at 2:50. So we drive through Oberammergau instead of being able to visit the town, and then we are on our way again. Then we get about 5 miles out of town and he realizes that he should have filled up the tank with gas and we had to drive back to Oberammergau for gas. We booked the trip so that we could walk around Oberammergau and he seemed to think it was not important. More time lost. The van was not comfortable, windows not clean, and it was difficult to find the seat belt connectors due to a seat cover. The driver drove way to fast and it was scary. We have booked trips through Viator since 2005, and this is our second bad experience in two out of our last three trips. It seems the quality has gone down in that time frame. We will not use this service again.
cruise trip worthy to include in your travel bucket list
We started the tour in Boppard and it was a perfect length for the cruise. We didn't wait for the paddle boat but took one of the others and it was still a great boat. We enjoyed the scenery and the service on the boat. Would recommend this to anyone interested in seeing the castles along the Rhine.
We my husband, adult daughter, and I are so glad that we took this one-day trip. The price was right, and the food and drink on-board was good and reasonably priced as well. We opted not to disembark earlier, but I can see that being a good option for those who want a slightly shorter or more diverse day. We used the full day trip to catch up on some reading while enjoying the castles, towns, and vineyards and the stories behind them. A shorter 3-4 hour? trip would have been plenty if our main objective was sight-seeing.
The all-day pass is a good value, but be aware that you probably can't see the entire route and get off at a couple stops unless you commit to starting first thing in the morning at Koblenz or Rudesheim, and sticking around all day. The schedule is available on this website. The Subway on board our boat was not open until after noon, but there were snacks available on the top deck. The tour itself is nice. A recording presents information in a few different languages.
Also - on our specific day, there was an American woman who ruined the entire experience for a lot of us because of her obnoxious yelling about the Subway not opening when she wanted it to and her children being out of control. Kids are kids, but hers were screaming inside the restaurant and she was nowhere to be found. Meanwhile, she was yelling at crew at the top of her lungs. As a fellow American, I was embarrassed by her idiocy and how the crew neglected to handle the situation. They could have removed her from the boat at the next stop, but she carried on and on for over an hour. If you read a really negative review from the end of June 2017 about how the Subway wasn't open, do not heed it. She literally cursed me out for asking her children to be quiet and for asking her to calm down so that we could enjoy our cruise. No wonder Europeans don't have the best view of Americans.
It was a wonderful day of cruising past vineyards and castles, and beautiful cities. We were on the paddle boat and it was elegant. We ate a delicious lunch and met some very interesting people. We met people from all over the world. We were safe and saw some terrific views. We could have hopped on and off to another boat and toured in a city, but we would have lost the paddle boat then. It was so much fun. This is a wonderful one-day tour along a beautiful stretch of the Rhine. A must do!
Loved the rhine cruise. The weather was perfect and we had an enjoyable day. Joan and Mark
This is a great cruise to see all the castles and beautiful landscape along the Rhine River in 1 day. If you don't want to stay on the cruise to the end you can get off anywhere along the way and take the next boat going back to your original destination. I highly recommend this cruise.
Helpful advice given when ticket collected about getting off at the pretty town of Bacharach and then exploring the town and castle above whilst waiting for the ship to return as two return sailings available at that time. The ship used, the paddle ship Goethe, was very well provided for with good staff and the breakfast and drinks at a price you would expect
Rüdesheim is part of the World Heritage Site Upper Middle Rhine Valley. It is situated in the district of Rheingau-Taunus in the state of Hesse, at the foot of the Niederwald landscape park. The town is one of the most famous tourist attractions in Germany.
Rheinstraße 65385 Rüdesheim Breite/Lat: 49.977497 Länge/Lon: 7.923256
Tel. 0 67 22 / 38 08 Fax 0 67 22 / 28 58 E-Mail: kd-ruedesheim(at)k-d.com
Information concerning the landing-stage.
By regional train Vias/DB (Rheingau Line) to Rüdesheim Station, approx 10 min. walk.
From the east (Wiesbaden, Frankfurt) follow the main road B42 (Rheinstrasse) through Rüdesheim. The landing-stage is approximately 300m beyord the Adler Tower.
From the west (Koblenz) the main road B42 cross the railway near the station. 500m further on you come to the landing-stage on your right.
Car park (subject to charge): at the tourist information, approx. 150m from the KD landing-stage. Free parking is available some 1.2km away (car park P5 Auf der Lach).
There is a bus stop for dropping off and picking up passengers at the landing-stage. Coaches can be parked (subject to charge) at car park P4, Geisenheimer Straße.
Cabin cable car to the niederwald memorial.
When you visit Rüdesheim am Rhein, you must make sure to take a trip on the cable car to the Niederwald memorial. Floating silently above the vines and experiencing the impressive landscape from above – that is something you can only experience here. Enjoy the superb view of the old town of Rüdesheim and the view over the Rheingau to Wiesbaden and Mainz. The Niederwald memorial is just a few metres away from the mountain station. The 38-metre-high memorial symbolises the re-establishment of the German Empire after the Franco-Prussian War of 1870/71. The main figure is Germania and weighs 32 tonnes.
The heart of Rüdesheim’s old town. The meeting place for people from Rüdesheim and guests from all over the world. This is where the music plays! Festive and classical – romantic and wild – brass and woodwind – from early until late – 144 metres of joie de vivre in wine taverns and gardens. Let yourself be thrilled by the unique character of the lane called Drosselgasse.
The 20.5-metre-high late-Gothic Eagle’s Tower located at a corner of the town’s fortifications was built in the 15th century and once stood directly by the Rhine. The dungeon in the cellar could only be accessed through an opening in the crown of the arch.
Strolling and sampling – Enjoy an entertaining wine walk which covers various vinotheques in Rüdesheim and a total of eight wines for a price of €12.50, or €15.00 when the vinotheque in Assmannshausen and ten wines are included. Start in any vinotheque and sample two wines – the establishment’s favourite wine and a wine of your choice. Then stroll to the next vinotheque. There, too, you can sample two wines and learn interesting facts about wine tradition in the Rheingau region. And so you continue... At the end you will be given a wine glass as a souvenir.
Once located directly by the Rhine, the castle was owned by the Archbishops of Mainz from the early 10th to the early 19th centuries. Today it houses the extensive collections of the Rheingau Wine Museum.
In around 1220 the Archbishop of Mainz had a superb palace built to replace an earlier private castle. This was used to levy transit duties. Because of its strategic position, it was the scene of fierce fighting in the Thirty Years War, and was finally burnt down in 1689. The ruins are situated idyllically in the vineyards between Rüdesheim and Assmannshausen.
Rüdesheim is a good starting point for cycle tours through the Rheingau. On the stretch to Wiesbaden, you cycle through some 25 kilometres of picturesque wine-growing communities, such as Eltville and Oestrich. Cycling through the World Heritage Site “Upper Middle Rhine Valley” is a particular pleasure on the left bank between Bingen and Koblenz, which covers 65 kilometres and takes you past castles and vineyards. Cross the river on the ferry from Rüdesheim, then away you go. This tour is also ideal when combined with a KD boat trip.
Rheinstraße 29a 65366 Rüdesheim am Rhein Tel. 06722 / 906150 E-Mail: touristinfo(at)ruedesheim.de
Service centre.
Tel. +49 (0)221/2088-318 Fax +49 (0)221/2088-345
info(at)k-d.com
Here you can find the answers to the most important questions about KD's services.
The KD FAQs
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Published on March 18, 2024
by Henk Bekker
in Germany , N24 , NAdX , Rhine / Rhein River , Rhine River , River Cruises
Köln-Düsseldorfer (KD) and the Weisse Flotte Rhein are the best-known day-trip riverboat cruise lines on the Rhine River in Germany and are good choices for short to all-day excursion cruises. Popular day-trip cruises are to tour the Loreley Valley between Rüdesheim, St Goar, and Koblenz or panorama sightseeing cruises in larger cities such as Cologne, Düsseldorf, Cochem ( Mosel ), and Frankfurt ( Main ).
The Rhine River is a very popular day-trip destination from cities such as Cologne (Köln) and Frankfurt am Main. Trains run on both banks of the Rhein but nothing beats a cruise on the river itself. Köln-Düsseldorfer (KD) has the largest number of boats on the Rhine River and has many cruises through the lovely Loreley Valley that could be as short as an hour or all day. Several further companies operate cruises on the Rhine and past the Lorelei (Loreley). Special savings deals are available on many cruises.
The KD Rhine Pass savings deal has not been on sale in recent years but Get Your Guide offers easy booking (and often sensible cancelation options) for day-trip cruises on the Rhine departing from many popular cities such as Cologne , Düsseldorf , Bonn , Koblenz , Boppard , Ruedesheim , Cochem , and Frankfurt . Most cruise lines now also accept online ticket purchases but several still prefer to sell tickets directly at the quay or on board cruise boats.
Day-trip cruises on the Rhine River are very popular in Germany with departures available from many cities and even small towns on the Rhine. Reservations are often not possible for regular day cruises but it is worth planning a bit in advance to take advantage of savings deals to get the best value (and finest views) from a cruise.
See also Loreley Valley Rhine River Day Cruises for tips on sensible routings and cruise times between ports on the very popular Middle Rhine Valley.
Köln-Düsseldorfer, or simply KD , is the largest operator of pleasure boats for short and full single day cruises on the Rhine River in Germany. KD has been in business since 1827 but the oldest KD boat in operation is the SS Goethe first launched in 1913.
Köln-Düsseldorfer is generally a good choice for day cruises on the Rhine. KD has the largest number of departures by far of all Rhine pleasure boat lines. This allows passengers to make more stops en route if desired — remember to indicate all planned stops when buying tickets as separate tickets are issued for each leg of the cruise.
During the high season, KD has at least two boats doing the daily cruise route from Rüdesheim and Bingen to Koblenz (and return) with further boats cruising between Mainz and Boppard. Many more KD boats cruise between Bonn and Linz with the occasional boat starting from Cologne.
In 2024, no regular Rhine boats cruise between Linz and Koblenz in either direction. KD also does not offer Mosel cruises other than the panorama cruise in Cochem .
KD also often has arrangements with other local boat operators to offer a high number of departures.
Köln-Düsseldorfer historic SS Goethe paddle steamer from 1913 is the oldest regular cruise boat on the Rhine River. The Goethe steams daily (except Monday) from Koblenz to Rüdesheim and back — just over 6 hours upstream and just less than 4 hours going back.
Depending on the season, KD has scheduled cruises on the Rhine, Mosel , and Main rivers and panorama cruises in Düsseldorf , Cologne , Cochem , and Frankfurt . The Middle Rhine and Loreley Valley remain the top cruise by far.
Köln-Düsseldorfer offers a wide range of special savings deals to make Rhine River day trips cheaper. Different discounts generally cannot be combined and official identification may be required. Also, discounts are only available for tickets bought in person for regular cruises and are usually only valid if KD’s own boats are used:
For more details on these and other saving fares see Rhine River Day Cruise Saver Fares .
A few independent Rhine boat cruise operators cooperate under the Weisse Flotte Rhein banner. However, these companies set their own schedules and prices. These companies cruise on all parts of the Rhine but departures and cruises are most frequent in the vicinity of the Rhine where these independent boat cruise lines are based. Many cruise lines offer discount combination tickets for cruises and sightseeing sites.
Note that Rundfahrt (circular cruises) and Panorama Cruises usually mean that it is not possible to leave the boat en route or at a destination other than the original departure point, while Linienfahrten allow passengers to disembark anywhere en route, as is mostly the case with KD cruises.
The Weisse Flotter Rhein companies in geographical downstream order:
Bingen-Rüdesheimer offers cruises in the Rüdesheim and Bingen area, as well as up to three daily cruises through the Loreley Valley to St Goar and St Goarhausen. Rüdesheim has a popular Christmas market and is one of the few towns along the Rhine that offers some cruises during the winter season. Bingen-Rüdesheimer still honors the tradition Geburtstagtarif — free cruises on a birthday. The child and bicycle fares are also slightly cheaper than KD and dogs mostly cruise for free.
See also Rhine River Cruises from Rüdesheim – a great town to start or conclude a Rhine day cruise.
Loreley-Linie Weinand operates from Kamp Bornhofen with cruises to the Loreley Valley with stops mostly in Boppard, Kamp Bornhofen, Kestert, St Goar, and St Goarhausen. Once a week, it is possible to cruise all the way to Rüdesheim and back.
Bonner Personen Schiffahrt cruises on the Rhine mostly from Bonn with panorama cruises in the former German capital as well as Rhine cruises mostly to Linz — some may be booked online. Cruises between Linz and Koblenz are rare and usually only for repositioning boats after Rhine in Flames fireworks shows.
Rössler Line is based in Rüdesheim-Assmannshausen. Rössler has mostly shorter Rhine cruises in the Rüdesheim vicinity but Rössler occasionally cruises down the Loreley Valley past Die Lorelei to St Goar / St Goarhausen. The shorter cruises in the popular Rüdesheim area may include visiting castles or winetastings — many may be booked online .
Köln Tourist competes with KD in its home town Cologne. Although it offers some excursion cruises, it mostly operates panorama sightseeing cruises in the Cologne area including special harbor cruises and cruises with an emphasis on culinary events, dancing, and parties.
See also Loreley Valley Rhine River Day Cruises for tips on sensible routings and cruise times between towns from Koblenz to Mainz and Top Rhine Day Cruises from Cologne for similar information on cruises from Cologne (Köln), Bonn, and Düsseldorf.
Day-Trip Excursions and Pleasure Cruises on the Rhine River:
Tips and Savings on Day-Trip Rhine Cruises
About the author:
Henk Bekker
Henk Bekker is a freelance travel writer with over 20 years of experience writing online. He is particularly interested in history, art, and culture. He has lived most of his adult life in Germany, Switzerland, and Denmark. In addition to European-Traveler.com , he also owns a travel website on the Lake Geneva region of Switzerland and maintains statistical websites on car sales and classic car auction prices . Henk holds an MBA from Edinburgh Business School and an MSc in Development Finance from the University of London.
Home » Germany » Top Rhine River Day-Trip Cruise Lines in Germany
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Inspiration and information for the best in luxury, cultural, and active travel, castle cruising from rüdesheim to koblenz, the captivating castles of the upper middle rhine valley.
Our Viking cruise along the Middle Rhine River in Germany provided spectacular vistas of castles and fortresses — pretty, fairytale-like, majestic, imposing, some showing battle scars and effects of old age. A 65km scenic stretch of the Upper Middle Rhine Valley between Bingen/Rüdesheim and Koblenz, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2002, showcases Rhine River castles perched on hillsides above riverside villages amid terraced vineyards.
It’s easy to see why the Middle Rhine River Valley was inspiration for the 19th-century writers and artists, including Goethe and Byron, and why it was one of Germany’s first tourist destinations with famous visitors, such as Mark Twain who wrote about the area in A Tramp Abroad .
Although the weather was beautifully clear and sunny though unseasonably chilly during our cruise in May, Mr. TWS and I (along with many other Viking passengers) took to the upper deck and bow of the Viking Tialfi to get the best views along the way between Rüdesheim and Koblenz. While sitting on the bow immersed in the beautiful sights, servers came around with warm blankets and hot chocolate to make us all feel cozy. So I sat back, relaxed, and enjoyed the scenery of the Rhine River castles and villages described using the PA system by Morgan Van Selman, our cruise Program Director.
With so many landmarks, charming towns, and pretty sights to see along the way, I’ve limited this series of photos and bits of historical information to some of the highlights.
Rheinstein Castle
It’s amazing to see a castle like Rheinstein built into a sheer rocky cliffside. The current Rheinstein Castle was built in the 19th century on the site of the original castle built in 900AD. Notably, it has been the home of Emperor Rudolph von Habsburg from 1282 through 1286, leased by the Archbishops of Mainz, and home to the Royal Prince of Prussia.
Reichenstein Castle
Vacationers at the campground in Trechtingshausen enjoy a gorgeous position below Reichenstein Castle. This is an enormous neo-Gothic castle built in the 11th century and originally owned by one of the area’s notorious robber barons. It was left to decay in the 16th century but rebuilt throughout the 19th century.
Fürstenberg Castle ruins
Above the village of Rheindiebach are the ruins of Fürstenberg Castle, built in 1219 by the Archbishop of Cologne to protect his estate and to act as a toll station. You have to use your imagination to envision the nobility of life at the castle since it was destroyed during the War of the Palatine Succession in the 17th century.
Stahleck Castle
The 12th-century Stahleck Castle has changed hands from the diocese of Cologne to Emperor Barbarossa, to the emperor’s brother, to the Bavarian dynasty — all between 1135 and 1214. It was destroyed by the French in 1689. The castle was reconstructed during the early to mid-20th century and is currently a youth hostel.
Gutenfels Castle on the hilltop; Toll Station Pfalzgrafenstein below
The eye-catching Pfalzgrafenstein was built in 1327 and was a toll station until 1866. The castle was never destroyed and so is original construction. Its location on the small island in the Rhine was perfect for its purpose as a toll station.
Above Pfalzgrafenstein on the hillside is Gutenfels, a 13th century castle situated amid the lovely terraced vineyards. As many castles of the time, it was the scene of sieges and important historical events some as a result of this location as one of the shallowest spots on this section of the Rhine. For example, Prussian Field Marshal Blucher and his army in 1813 /1814 crossed the Rhine here on his way to France and the battle leading to the fall of Napoleon. This spot of the Rhine is also associated with a legend about the fleur-de-lis , an important symbol of French nobility. Frankish King Clovis in the late 5th century fleeing an enemy saw a wild yellow iris in the river, which he correctly interpreted to mean there was shallow water here. He later adopted the yellow iris as an important symbol on his herald which according to the legend evolved to the fleur-de-lis .
Schönburg Castle
Wouldn’t you love to stay in this castle’s hotel? Above the town of Oberwesel stands Schönburg Castle, aptly-named as “ schön” means “beautiful” in German. The 19th-century German poet, Ferdinand Freiligrath, referred to it as “the most beautiful refuge of the Rhine romanticism”. Built in the 12th century, it was destroyed in 1689 (like several other castles in the area), and rebuilt in 1885.
Rheinfels Fortress
Rheinfels Fortress is the largest castle overlooking this section of the Rhine located high on its west bank, though much of the castle is ruins (destroyed by the French in 1749.) Originally built to protect the tax collectors beginning in 1245 by Count Diether V von Katzenelnbogen, it was expanded to a fortress with an area almost five times as large as its current footprint and served as the residence of the counts.
This area and slightly north along the Rhine seemed an area to target for future visits exploring on land with beautiful towns such as Boppard just before the big bend of the Rhine. Near Boppard is a chairlift that provides accessibility to some of the most beautiful views of the Rhine, including a vantage point where the twists in the Rhine cause the appearance of four individual lakes.
Katz Castle
Across the Rhine from Rheinfels Castle above the town of St. Goarshausen, is Katz Castle, built by Count Wilhelm II of Katzenelnbogen in the 14th century to protect Rheinfels Castle. Katz Castle was a bastion and military base as its position high on the ridge protected it from attacks from below. However, there were many heritage disputes between Katz and Rheinfels castles, destroying and rebuilding the castle several times before Napoleon actually destroyed it in 1806. Later, the castle was reconstructed closely to the original design and is now the Katz Hotel.
An important landmark and sight in the river here which is the inspiration for several legends, songs, and other writing is Loreli , a 132-meter-high slate rock. The river is deep and narrow here with a fast current that causes a gurgling sound. The treacherous spot had been the site of many boating accidents over the years which led to the primary legend which is of a siren-like beauty who lured sailors to calamity with her song.
And where there is a “Katz”, there’s a “Maus”.
Maus Castle on the hillside
Just a short distance north of Katz Castle on another hill is Maus Castle built between 1353-1388 to protect the territory of Archbishop Balduin. Folklore says it got its name from the Katzenelnbogens who ridiculed during its construction that the cat (Katz Castle) would eat the mouse.
Sterrenberg and Liebenstein Castles
A 16th-century legend says that Sterrenberg Castle and the adjacent Liebenstein Castle are called the “Hostile Brothers” because of the disputes between the castle owners, two brothers. But history seems to show that Liebenstein was built to shield Sterrenberg and there were no actual conflicts between the two.
Stolzenfels Palace
This beautiful romantic palace shines white high on the west bank of the Rhine. Originally built as a fortress in the 13th century, it was later used as a toll station. Destroyed in 1689 in the Palatinate War of Succession (also known as the Nine Years’ War ), it was rebuilt by Prussian King Friedrich Wilhelm IV as a palace in 1823 and appears much the same today.
Ehrenbreitstein Fortress
An optional excursion on the Rhine Getaway cruise is a tour of Ehrenbreitstein, the imposing fortress known as the “Guard at the Rhine” towering over the Rhine in Koblenz. This citadel was built in the 19th century (on the site of the original 12th century fortress) as protection against the French. This tour was at the same time as the Marksburg tour so we missed it, but did take the opportunity to take the cable car from the dock across the river to the fortress entrance and back — just for the fun of it. We enjoyed the sweeping views of Koblenz, the Rhine, the Moselle, and the surrounding area from the cable car.
Cable car to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress
Marksburg Castle
At first glance of the 13th century Marksburg Castle from the bow of the Tialfi, I was taken by the fairytale beauty of its turrets and towers. Marksburg is the only castle on in the Rhine Valley that was never destroyed.
I’ve shared a few more photos of Marksburg Castle since a guided tour was included in our Rhine Getaway itinerary . On our tour of this remarkably well-preserved castle, we enjoyed a look at ancient artifacts in the kitchens, living quarters of nobility and servants, the citadel, and even the torture chamber with its disturbing devices. There is also an impressive collection of armor (shown below).
Armor display at Marksburg Castle
Marksburg interior: painted ceilings (top); dining area; tapestry
I enjoyed the beautiful art and decorative features throughout the living quarters including intricate tapestries and painted ornate ceilings.
In the kitchen at Marksburg Castle
Imagine cooking in this kitchen! I suppose it was a wonderful place to be working in the wintertime with a warm fire to keep you warm.
The scenic cruising of the Upper Middle Rhine river was one of many highlights of our Rhine Getaway cruise. Thanks to Viking River Cruises for hosting our castle cruising experience.
Marksburg Castle tour tip: There is quite a lot of walking involved, including stairs and uphill walkways.
Castles and fortresses footwear tip: When selecting the shoes to wear for castle tours, remember that you’ll most likely be encountering uneven cobblestone walkways and stairs. Wear shoes that are comfortable, supported, and safe! And yes, this cautionary message comes from previous personal experience.
Further information tip: Loreley Info has historical background on each of the castles and provides useful visiting information for those that are open to the public.
I usually think of Ireland and the UK when I think of castles but it certainly sounds as though Germany’s castles are just as impressive. Rheinstein Castle is especially pretty – That campground has got to have one of the best locations in Europe! What a beautiful journey this Viking cruise would be.
What a wonderful compilation of the castles along the Rhine River. I love not only the great photos, but the history lesson you have me on each of them. I imagine the campground beneath the castle would be an amazing place to stay with a great view.
Looks like medieval Germans got the memo about how it’s always good to occupy the high ground. We have yet to experience river cruising. It’s definitely on our proverbial bucket list.
Lovely story. There’s nothing more majestic than European castles. Your story reminded me of my Viking cruise….the only way to travel! I need to book another one ASAP.
Castles are among my fondest memories of travels along the Rhine…and it looks as though your Viking cruise delivered plenty of sterling castle views along the way! I especially like the photo of Stolzenfels Palace with those colorful houses below. Quite splendid.
Castle cruising on the Rhine looks like great fun! Thx for introducing me to this idea, Cathy.
What a wonderful cruise this must have been! I did visit many of the castles you mention a while back on a car “cruise” along the Rhine. We stayed the night at Rheinfels and enjoyed looking down at the river boats gliding by. That might have been the first time I ever saw a river boat.
What a fascinating experience to see these beautiful castles. It’s hard to imagine what life was like back then…. I’m just drooling at the thought of cooking in the Marksburg Castle kitchen. What a lovely cruise! 😉
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Hotels in the Rhine River Valley and on the Rhine River Hills
There are classic river itineraries — the Danube, the Rhine, the Rhone and the Nile — that anyone who appreciates the ease and camaraderie of river cruising can book with most of the top cruise lines. But those aren't your only options.
The most exciting river cruises to book this year are the new offerings that go off the beaten path, explore an unsung river or combine a standard seven-night sailing with a novel land tour.
For cruise news, reviews and tips, sign up for TPG's cruise newsletter .
Here are nine new itineraries for 2024 and 2025 that are taking river cruising beyond the familiar, including several on recently launched or soon-to-debut river ships.
Love South America but have already cruised the Amazon? Consider AmaWaterways ' newest ship, AmaMagdalena. Debuting in January 2025, the 60-passenger ship will sail two alternating seven-night itineraries year-round on Colombia's Magdalena River, traveling from Cartagena to Barranquilla and vice versa.
With the Wonders of Colombia itinerary , you'll board AmaMagdalena in coastal Cartagena, a popular Caribbean port on Panama Canal transits that you can now also enjoy on a river cruise. Arrive a day early or book a two-night precruise add-on to see sights such as the historic Walled City, San Felipe de Barajas Castle and the Gold Museum.
Following a sunset sail away, immerse yourself in the sights, sounds and tastes of Colombia via a local music experience in Palenque, the first "free town" in the Americas after a 1713 decree from the Spanish crown freed residents from slavery. You can also check out 19th-century Calamar on a paola (a two-person bicycle taxi) and the jazz music and local handicrafts available in Santa Barbara de Pinto and Mompox.
El Banco and Magangue round out the list of port calls before the cruise ends with a tour of the floating village of Nueva Venecia and an evening Carnival celebration in the seaside port of Barranquilla.
Choose the Magic of Colombia itinerary , from Barranquilla to Cartagena, and you'll visit the same ports, just in a different order. Rather than end your cruise with the Carnival celebration, you'll experience it on your first day. You can also book several precruise and postcruise land tours, including three nights precruise in Medellin, three nights postcruise in Panama or both.
AmaMagdalena will be joined in June 2025 by 64-passenger AmaMelodia. Both vessels will offer spacious (237- to 516-square-foot) staterooms and suites, as well as a heated pool on the sun deck and two dining options: the main restaurant, serving Latin American cuisine and Western favorites, and an intimate alfresco dining experience.
Related: Best river cruise lines around the world
American Cruise Lines ' itineraries on the Columbia and Snake rivers in Oregon and Washington already attract travelers who appreciate the stunning landscapes of the Pacific Northwest, but now the cruise line has a 15-night National Parks & Legendary Rivers itinerary that takes scenic appreciation to another level.
The trip combines an eight-night cruise on the Columbia and Snake rivers with a seven-night land tour to three national parks: Glacier, Yellowstone and Grand Teton. The itinerary visits five states and begins or ends in either Portland, Oregon, or Jackson, Wyoming, depending on whether you do the land or cruise portion first.
What will you see on this cruise? If you start in Portland, you'll overnight before boarding one of the company's modern, 180-passenger river ships: American Jazz, American Harmony or American Song. Your first day will be spent enjoying scenic cruising along the Columbia River, with Mount Hood and Mount St. Helens as a backdrop, as you head to Astoria, Oregon. The historic seaside city is known for its beautiful Victorian houses and red trolleys.
Geology enthusiasts and anyone who remembers the devastating May 1980 eruption of Mount St. Helens will be fascinated by the port call in Kalama, Washington, where you can take an included guided excursion to the National Volcanic Monument. The following day will be spent cruising the Columbia River Gorge before you arrive in Stevenson, Washington, where a visit to 620-foot Multnomah Falls is a highlight. The final two days feature views of the dramatic landscapes of the Snake River in eastern Washington as you call on Richland before disembarking in Clarkston.
The guided national parks tour begins with a drive to Coeur d'Alene, Idaho, for a lake cruise followed by an overnight in Kalispell, Montana. Once in Glacier National Park, you'll navigate Going-to-the-Sun Road and dine at the historic Lake McDonald Lodge.
The tour continues on to Yellowstone National Park, where your adventure guides will offer insight as you explore Mammoth Hot Springs, Norris Geyser Basin, Tower Fall and Old Faithful, among other highlights. A visit to Grand Teton National Park and its Jackson Lake Lodge follows, with your final day spent admiring the park's incredible mountain vistas and abundant wildlife.
Related: The best US river cruises
If 15 nights aren't enough to satisfy your wanderlust, American Cruise Lines offers a 50-night version of The Great United States program for 2025.
The 2025 sailing encompasses three cruises. It takes the 15-night National Parks & Legendary Rivers itinerary described above and adds a 21-night Mississippi River cruise from New Orleans to St. Paul, Minnesota, aboard 180-passenger American Serenade, which will call on 21 ports in six states. Along the Mississippi, you'll have a chance to visit Civil War battlefields in Vicksburg, Mississippi; Mark Twain's boyhood home in Hannibal, Missouri; and the landmark Gateway Arch in St. Louis. You can also enjoy legendary blues music on Beale Street in Memphis.
That segment will be followed by a 14-night, 14-port cruise along the coast of New England on 125-passenger American Pioneer (debuting in 2025). The ship will sail round-trip from Boston and visit scenic coastal ports in Maine, New Hampshire, Rhode Island and Massachusetts, including the quintessential New England islands of Martha's Vineyard and Nantucket.
Tour options will include visits to the Maine Botanical Garden in Boothbay Harbor and Acadia National Park in Bar Harbor, an SUV adventure along the dunes of Provincetown on Cape Cod and a tour of the gilded mansions of Newport in Rhode Island.
In total, you'll check off 15 states from your must-visit list during this river cruise. That's an impressive number of destinations to visit in a single trip.
Portugal's Douro River Valley is beloved by oenophiles. Over the past few decades, it has also attracted river cruisers seeking a relaxing itinerary punctuated by sleepy small towns and the daily enjoyment of local food and wine.
In March 2024, Avalon Waterways added the Douro River to its offerings when it debuted 102-passenger Avalon Alegria sailing an itinerary called Vida Portugal: Vineyards & Villages Along the Douro . The seven-night cruise is round trip from Porto, where there's time at the start and end of your cruise to explore this colorful city's historic port-wine cellars, churches and bridges (including the Ponte de Dona Maria Pia, designed in 1877 by Gustave Eiffel).
Noteworthy stops range from an afternoon call on Porto Antigo, with included excursions to monasteries and churches in Braga and Guimaraes, to a call at Peso de Regua, where sightseeing and wine tasting go hand in hand. You'll even have an opportunity to add an optional excursion from Pinhao to the elaborate 18th-century Baroque palace Casa de Mateus (of rose wine fame).
Save time for the onboard activities, too. After a full-day excursion from Barca d'Alva to Salamanca, Spain — a city known for its mix of Romanesque, Gothic and Baroque architectural styles — you can learn how to paint azulejos (Portugal's famous blue-hued handmade tiles) or enjoy a pastry-making demonstration on the ship the next morning.
Related: The best river cruises in Europe
Germany is known for its scenic river valleys, and a new itinerary from French river cruise line CroisiEurope doesn't skimp on beautiful vistas. Called A Cruise Through Four Exquisite European Valleys , the seven-night, round-trip sailing departs from Strasbourg, France, and visits the Rhine, Neckar, Moselle and Saar river valleys.
The ship for this itinerary, 81-passenger Elbe Princesse II, is one of CroisiEurope's three paddle river boats. It normally navigates the Elbe River between Berlin and Prague. However, from July to October 2025, the ship will be cruising the Rhine and its tributaries.
This river cruise kicks off on the Saar River, famous for the Great Bend at Mettlach (the river equivalent of a hairpin turn), and overnights in the town of Saarburg, Germany. After a morning scenic cruise onto the Moselle River, you'll visit Trier, Germany, known for its ancient Roman structures and its photogenic medieval buildings, before continuing on to Cochem, Germany, where you can enjoy an afternoon visit to the hilltop Reichsburg Castle.
Larger cities like Koblenz, Germany, located at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers and home to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, are also on the itinerary. The trip features a stop in wine-centric Rudesheim, Germany, as well, so you can sample some vino and enjoy a ride on a scenic train while in the Rhine Valley.
The final day calls on a trio of German ports on the Neckar River. In the morning, you'll visit Mannheim and disembark for a coach transfer to Heidelberg, home to pink-hued Heidelberg Castle, historic churches and atmospheric beer halls. You'll then reboard Elbe Princesse II in Heidelberg and sail to Eberbach, a medieval city with an abundance of half-timbered homes and ancient fountains. The ship will overnight as you enjoy a final gala dinner before disembarking in Strasbourg the next morning.
With the March 2024 debut of 110-passenger Riverside Debussy, Europe-based newcomer Riverside Luxury Cruises has added more than a half-dozen new three- to 21-night itineraries, with options on the Rhine, Main, Moselle and Danube rivers. In October 2024, the ship will sail an 11-night Danube and Main River Discovery itinerary from Budapest to Frankfurt that combines the highlights of two rivers and visits four countries: Hungary, Slovakia, Austria and Germany.
You'll embark Riverside Debussy in Hungary's capital before cruising past the illuminated Hungarian Parliament Building on your way to Bratislava. The capital of Slovakia is home to a hilltop castle, a walkable pedestrian zone and pubs serving local beer.
The next day, discover the history and artistry of Vienna with visits to its Hapsburg-era palaces, 16th-century St. Stephen's Cathedral and numerous museums. Charming Durnstein, Austria, is known for its medieval castle and a riverfront abbey with a pretty blue-and-white spire, while the golden-hued abbey in nearby Melk, Austria, celebrates the flavor of apricots in preserves and liquors.
As you reach Passau, Germany, which sits on the confluence of three rivers, you'll enter Bavaria and discover a walkable city with a domed 17th-century Baroque cathedral. The next day on the Main River (a Rhine tributary), you'll tour Regensburg, Germany, including its UNESCO World Heritage-listed city center, before spending two days exploring Nuremberg, Germany, which has a notably complex history.
Rounding out the cruise are calls on Bamberg, Wurzburg and Wertheim, Germany, with bustling Frankfurt — where historic remnants of the Middle Ages meet modern skyscrapers — serving as the departure port.
Related: River cruise packing list: What to pack when traveling by riverboat
Tauck's newest river offering in Europe for 2025 is its 13-night Romantic Capitals: Prague to Paris itinerary. This multiriver and land journey is available from April to October on Tauck ships Joy and Savor.
You'll start your journey with two nights at the Fairmont Golden Prague Hotel and enjoy ample time to take in sights such as Prague Castle and the Charles Bridge. You'll then transfer to Regensburg, Germany, for a nine-day cruise to Trier along the Main, Rhine, Moselle and upper Danube rivers, as well as the Main-Danube Canal.
Ports and cities visited on excursions include Frankfurt, Koblenz, Nuremberg, Bamberg, Wurzburg, Wertheim and Boppard, Germany. Exclusive experiences available to Tauck guests range from a private reception and dinner at Schlosshotel Kronberg near Frankfurt to a visit to the legendary Nurburgring racetrack near Koblenz.
You'll continue your trip on land with a quick stop in Luxembourg for a walking tour of its capital city. Afterward, you'll board a train to Paris, where your journey will conclude with a two-night stay at L'Hotel du Collectionneur.
Uniworld Boutique River Cruises' newest offering for 2024 and 2025 is a 14-night cruise-and-rail itinerary, Delightful Danube & the Castles of Transylvania , that visits six countries: Turkey, Bulgaria, Romania, Hungary, Austria and Germany.
In Istanbul, the starting point, you'll have a day to check out many of the city's top sights, such as the Blue Mosque, the Hagia Sophia Grand Mosque and the Basilica Cistern Museum, before you board the private Golden Eagle Danube Express for a four-night train journey through Bulgaria and Romania. Stops you'll make along the way include Bulgaria's ancient capital of Veliko Tarnovo and the rugged mountain landscapes — and famous landmarks that inspired Bram Stoker's "Dracula" novel — of Romania's Transylvania region.
Before your train journey ends in Budapest, you'll enjoy a traditional Hungarian puszta horse show and two nights at the Four Seasons Hotel Gresham Palace Budapest. The latter serves as a terrific home base for enjoying local sights like the Danube-spanning Chain Bridge, the neo-Gothic Hungarian Parliament Building and the hillside Castle District with its palace and 14th-century Matthias Church.
Your Danube cruise begins as you board Uniworld's 130-passenger River Duchess and set sail north through Austria, visiting Vienna (for imperial and artistic immersion in palaces and museums) and Krems (to tour a castle set amid the beauty of the Wachau Valley). You also will call on Passau, Germany, a city that resides where three rivers — the Inn, the Ilz and the Danube — meet; it's a picturesque spot for a walking tour or riverside bike ride. Then, you'll make your way to Regensburg, Germany, with its charming medieval Old Town, transit the Main-Danube Canal and dock in Nuremberg for a special nighttime celebration before disembarkation.
Viking 's newest itinerary for 2025 is the 10-night Rhine & Main Explorer , which cruises from Nuremberg to Basel (or vice versa) from May to November and visits cities in Germany, France and Switzerland. It's a new mix of ports for Viking, including some lesser-known historic towns in Germany's Baden-Württemberg and Bavaria regions.
You'll board one of the cruise line's 190-passenger Viking Longships in Nuremberg, where an overnight offers time to learn about the city's medieval structures and past as a staging ground for Nazi rallies. More medieval architecture awaits in Bamberg, famous for its river-spanning Altes Rathaus (Town Hall) and its rauchbier (smoked beer). If wine is your preferred spirit, you're in luck, as Wurzburg, a city in Germany's Franken wine region, is also on the itinerary.
As you continue your cruise, you'll see the vibrant half-timbered houses and sample the hearty Bavarian cuisine (think: bratwurst and pork knuckle) of Marktheidenfeld, Germany. A visit to bustling Frankfurt, which provides a stark contrast between historic and modern Germany, is also in order after an afternoon spent sailing past the Main River's castle-topped hillsides.
France's Alsace region gets its turn when you call on Strasbourg, known for its beautifully preserved Old Town encircled by the Ill River. The itinerary also includes a stop across the Rhine in Breisach, Germany, the gateway to the Black Forest and a town full of vineyards. You'll end your journey with a full day of exploring charming guild house-lined Marktplatz, history-rich streets and more than 40 museums in Basel.
Planning a cruise? Start with these stories:
E urope is a continent built on its rivers, with many having played a vital role in the formation and development of its most important cities . From the Thames to the Tiber , they are an ever-flowing reminder of the continent’s long and varied history.
The opportunity to sail along these rivers, among the world’s most beautiful and peaceful waterways, is a temptation that’s easily given in to. Of course, a river cruise is about more than just spending time floating on the water (although that option is available, should you wish). It’s about the towns, cities and landmarks along the way.
These trips will take you on a relaxing and slow-paced journey to vineyards and valleys, tours and excursions, returning each night to your own floating hotel. Each day offers quick stops to discover some of the continent’s most important cultures at your own pace.
The Independent has rounded up eight of the best Europe river cruise packages, from epic continental crossing and to the finest Christmas markets to explore.
Viking River Cruises’ Capitals of Eastern Europe itinerary is a 16-night trip covering the main cities on the Danube. It sets sail from Vienna, the elegant and sophisticated Austrian capital, and it finishes in Constanta, Romania, before a quick final journey overland to Bucharest to end your trip with a two-night stay.
Read more on Europe travel :
On the way you’ll visit a host of towns in Hungary, Serbia and even Bulgaria, but on this trip the bigger cities are the main attraction. Vienna is followed by Bratislava – where Baroque palaces meet a typically Eastern European Old Town – and then Budapest . The Hungarian capital is a highlight: from festooned “ruin bars” and thermal baths to a spectacular neo-Gothic parliament building, the city has a wide variety of architecture, activities and things to do.
The tour lasts for 17 days, starting from £5,445pp. This price includes return flights, one excursion in each port of call and all meals. vikingrivercruises.co.uk
Alongside the Danube, the Rhine is one of Europe’s main cruise rivers. Many operators have several Rhine packages; TUI’s offering covers a stellar range of cities for a very affordable price. Its ships have two dining options (a bistro and a more formal restaurant) with al fresco seating, as well as a wellness and activity area on the top deck. No excursions are included, but this does give you free rein to choose whatever activities you like.
The first two days are spent in Amsterdam , where you’ll have ample time to wander its canals and green spaces, such as the Vondelpark, or visit attractions such as the Anne Frank Museum, Van Gogh Museum and Rijksmuseum.
Days three and four bring you to Rotterdam and Dusseldorf. You can enjoy the port area in the Netherlands ’ second city or simply marvel at its dramatically different modern architecture, while Dusseldorf provides a variety of museums and concerts alongside a lively Old Town. On days five to seven, you’ll visit four picturesque riverside cities and towns: Bonn, Koblenz, Boppard and Oberwesel. There are waterfront bars and restaurants galore, and each has its own slice of history (think of a Beethoven museum in Bonn and a memorial to the ruler who united Germany in Koblenz).
From £1,639pp for this seven-night trip, including three meals per day (you can add coffee, alcohol and other drinks on an all-inclusive basis for an extra £20 per night) and return flights. tui.co.uk
A trip along the northern Douro River can offer views to rival even the most idyllic of Algarve beaches. This trip starts in Porto , where bars and restaurants line the banks in the Ribeira (Riverside) district, but it is worth climbing the various hills to see other areas and sites, such as the cathedral and Dom Luis I Bridge.
After setting off along the Douro, your first two stops are Pinhao – a picturesque wine town, famous for being at the heart of the Port-producing region of the country – and Castelo Rodrigo, a 12th-century walled village located in the highlands. Day four will see you visit Salamanca, the Spanish sandstone city famous for its cathedrals and university.
The next two days are spent in Peso da Régua and Lamego – two small hillside towns – before returning to Porto on day seven. The cruise ends here, but the holiday doesn’t; this package also contains a three-night stay in Lisbon . After travelling to the capital by coach, you’ll visit the nearby towns of Coimbra (day eight) and Sintra (day 10), while you’ll have a day in the capital sandwiched in between; while in Lisbon, take in the city’s unique Manueline and Pombaline architecture while wandering through its grand squares, and visit Sao Jorge castle or the city’s famous Time Out Market.
This 11-day cruise is priced from £1,599pp, including all meals on board, excursions, airport transfers and coach travel where necessary. rivieratravel.co.uk
Scenic Cruises’ luxury Rhone sailing takes you through some of the best sections of southern France , starting in Lyon . The regional capital has 2,000 years of history, so it’s blessed with a Roman amphitheatre right through to a Renaissance Old Town. Your first trip will take you north along the Saone River to Macon, a famous wine region in Burgundy.
The next two towns, Vienne and Viviers, offer spectacular views of the Rhone before you arrive in Avignon. You can enjoy a private concert at the Palais des Papes – once a Papal residence – as well as a cooking class onboard, but a visit to the city itself is worth it to wander its narrow streets and charming squares, starting with the Place de l’Horloge. Your final day takes you to Arles, at the mouth of the Rhone – from here, you can travel home, stay in the city or carry on towards Marseille .
Prices start at £2,999pp for the eight-day cruise. The package includes 20 meals, the premium concert experience, cooking lessons and 19 shore activities, ranging from walking tours to wine tastings. scenic.co.uk
Avalon’s eight-day cruise of the Low Countries is an excellent way to experience some of the region’s best cities in a relaxing way. It starts and ends in Amsterdam , where you’ll have a number of nights to wander its scenic network of canals lined with beautiful 17th-century buildings.
When you move on to Belgium, you’ll visit Ghent , Brussels and Antwerp on consecutive days. More tranquil canals await you in Ghent, and those who enjoy being by the water can continue this in Antwerp’s waterfront area. Brussels has more than its fair share of landmarks and museums (all centred around Grand Place, the main square and Unesco Heritage Site), but the Royal Museum of Fine Arts (Antwerp) and St Bavo’s Cathedral (Ghent) are definitely places to visit during the other stops. Day six will take you to Rotterdam before you head back to the Dutch capital.
From £2,453pp. Meals and some activities are included; there are additional excursions in each destination that can be purchased. avalonwaterways.co.uk
This trip from Emerald Cruises takes you along the famous river to Regensburg. It starts with two nights in Budapest , with a traditional Hungarian folklore show and tour of Buda Hill on offer, along with any solo sightseeing you’d like to do. Days three and four take you to Bratislava and Vienna, where you can enjoy cycling tours and hikes.
Krems and Durnstein are the last two stops in Austria before you head to Passau, the German “City of Three Rivers”. At the confluence of the Danube, Inn and Ilz rivers, the city is home to an impressive cathedral and Old Town. After disembarking at Regensburg, you make your way to Munich , where a good plan is to spend time exploring the Bavarian capital before you fly home.
From £1,849pp for this eight-day cruise, which includes five guided tours, 20 meals and complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks served with lunch and dinner on board. emeraldcruises.co.uk
There’s something quite special about experiencing Christmas celebrations on a river cruise through Europe. On this AmaWaterways voyage, you sail the Rhine, boarding in Amsterdam and with a first stop in Cologne. The Gothic cathedral provides the backdrop for one of the country’s best Christmas markets, where you’ll find dozens of stalls selling festive items, many of them handmade. Other markets include the more elaborate Heinzels Wintermärchen in the Old Town and the Markt der Engel (a more rustic affair in the city’s Neumarkt square). For those who want to mix in a bit of sightseeing, the Museum Ludwig and Roman-Germanic Museum can give you a taste of arts and history.
Next on the itinerary, you’ll visit the German towns of Heidelberg and Speyer, where more markets await, before arriving in Strasbourg, France. Here you’ll find an eclectic mix of French and German culture, a warm festive spirit and plenty of opportunities to wander the markets that are spread throughout the town. Wander further afield and you’ll find Petite France, a pretty district known for cobblestone streets and canals. Holidaymakers return to Germany for the penultimate stop in Breisach, before disembarking in Basel (though you can always stay in Switzerland for a taste of Swiss Christmas markets).
From £3.149, including meals and some activities; flights and airport transfer not included. amawaterways.co.uk
This ultimate itinerary bisects Europe to take passengers from Amsterdam to Bucharest, via sections of the Rhine, Main and Danube among other European rivers. Along the way, passengers will visit some of Europe’s principal cities – think Budapest, Amsterdam and Vienna – smaller (but just as beautiful) riverside settlements such as Passau and Bamberg, and lesser-known towns including Vidin and Kolocsa.
Hidden gems range from Melk, an Austrian town in the underrated Wachau Valley wine-making region, Osijek, the fourth-largest city in Croatia, and Kinderdijk, a Dutch village famous for its set of 19 windmills. With 23 days, eight countries, 20 towns and cities, and at least 10 Unesco World Heritage Sites, there’ll be plenty to see as you traverse the length of central Europe.
From £8,045pp, including flights, 19 guided tours, all meals, transfers and amenities. vikingrivercruises.co.uk
Read more: Best hotels in Europe 2024: Where to stay for a city, beach or retreat break
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Hop on and off all day at the many stops along the Rhine and Moselle Rivers your flexible single-day ticket. 1-day Rhine River pass for the Nostalgic Route from Koblenz to Rudesheim. See the beauty of the Rhine Valley while cruising at a leisurely pace. Travel along the Middle Rhine, admiring the castles and the Loreley rock.
This sightseeing cruise from Koblenz is a great way to explore the beauty of the Rhine River Valley in a day. The Nostalgic Route showcases castles, vineyards, and magnificent scenery, and best of all, you can get off the boat at any of the stops along the way for exploring on foot. Read more. Ages 14-99, max of 200 per group.
Hop on and off all day at the many stops along the Rhine and Moselle Rivers your flexible single-day ticket. 1-day Rhine River pass for the Nostalgic Route from Koblenz to Rudesheim. See the beauty of the Rhine Valley while cruising at a leisurely pace. Travel along the Middle Rhine, admiring the castles and the Loreley rock.
Published on May 27, 2024. by Henk Bekker. in Germany, N24, NAdX, Rhine River. Koblenz, at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers, is an ideal departure port for day-trip cruises on either the Rhein or Mosel. Boats cruise from Koblenz for day excursion riverboat sightseeing cruises on the Rhine (Rüdesheim) and Mosel River (Cochem) in ...
Rüdesheim is at the southernmost point of the UNESCO World Cultural Heritage-listed Upper Middle Rhine (Oberes Mittelrheintal) making it an excellent choice when exploring the romantic Rhine Valley on a day-trip excursion boat cruise.. The best Rhine River cruise from Rüdesheim is downriver to explore the Loreley Valley.From here to around Koblenz, the Rhine Valley is narrow with steep ...
KD Rhine Pass - Nostalgic Route - Rhine Cruise from Koblenz to Rudesheim. 67. From. €33. Book now. 1 day. About this activity. Use the pass as a one way ticket to get from one city to another, or maybe you prefer to use it as a return trip to spend a day elsewhere along the river, the choice is yours! The paddle steamer cruise on the ...
Koblenz is the gateway to the Middle Rhine UNESCO World Heritage site and is happily situated on not one but two world-famous rivers - the Rhine and the Moselle. What better way to experience this stunning area than on a ship. Travel along the Middle Rhine and dream of castles and fairy tales while enjoying the breathtaking scenery all around you.
A legendary ship. The Goethe attracts attention wherever she moors up on the Rhine, although the inhabitants of the towns and villages between Koblemz and Rüdesheim ought to have become accustomed to the sight of this unique historical vessel by now, for indeed she cruises that stretch of the river every day from April to October, carrying her passengers back to the good old days.
9:00 AM. Departure Details : 1: Konrad-Adenauer-Ufer, 56068 Koblenz, Germany. 2: 65385 Rüdesheim am Rhein, Germany. Return Details : Returns to original departure point. Cancellation Policy : For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.
Cycling through the World Heritage Site "Upper Middle Rhine Valley" is a particular pleasure on the left bank between Bingen and Koblenz, which covers 65 kilometres and takes you past castles and vineyards. Cross the river on the ferry from Rüdesheim, then away you go. This tour is also ideal when combined with a KD boat trip.
Köln-Düsseldorfer (KD) and the Weisse Flotte Rhein are the best-known day-trip riverboat cruise lines on the Rhine River in Germany and are good choices for short to all-day excursion cruises. Popular day-trip cruises are to tour the Loreley Valley between Rüdesheim, St Goar, and Koblenz or panorama sightseeing cruises in larger cities such ...
Our Viking cruise along the Middle Rhine River in Germany provided spectacular vistas of castles and fortresses — pretty, fairytale-like, majestic, imposing, some showing battle scars and effects of old age. A 65km scenic stretch of the Upper Middle Rhine Valley between Bingen/Rüdesheim and Koblenz, designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in ...
Water activity. From Rüdesheim: 1.5-Hour Boat Cruise with Wine Tasting. Activity provider: Rössler Linie GmbH & Co.KG. 3.6 / 517 reviews. Experience an enjoyable boat cruise from Rüdesheim and be enchanted by the romance of the Rhine. Admire the numerous castles of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and enjoy fresh pretzels and wine tasting.
Planning a Rhine river cruise and want to see the most castles along the Rhine in one, two or three days? ... Germany, Rhine River Valley, Mainz, Rudesheim, Bacharach, Lorelei Rock, Koblenz Nonsmoking Canopy bed holiday apartment Hermann, ask for Last Minute Offers Central quiet location in Oberwesel on the Rhine river. Renovated in 2015, 55 sqm.
A major highlight of a Rhine River cruise is the 40-mile stretch between Rudesheim and Koblenz, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, rich with romantic castles and scenic towns.Other UNESCO World Heritage Sites that are often visible on a Rhine River sailing include the Cologne Cathedral, the historic center of Strasbourg, Speyer Cathedral and Amsterdam's canal ring.
Boat river tour from Bingen to Koblenz May 02, 2024. Train tickets to explore Rhine and Mosel Mar 30, 2024. Transportation up to Marksburg Castle from Rhine Cruise Dock Mar 12, 2024. Cruise from koblenz to Strasbourg Feb 18, 2024. Mini group ticket cochem-koblenz Oct 13, 2023.
Experience the magic and myth of the Rhine River Valley on a full-day nostalgia sightseeing cruise from Koblenz! Your excursion takes place aboard KD's exquisite Goethe paddle steamer. Admire the boat's authentic art deco features as you travel down the UNESCO-listed Middle Rhine, passing castles, vineyards and charming riverside scenes. Hop on and off all day at the many stops along the ...
Idyllic River Cruises. From the spectacular Danube to the majestic Rhine, discover the stunning rivers and waterways of Europe with our brilliant range of river cruises. Featuring fantastic ports of call, hop on board a comfortable and elegant ship and watch the incredible, ever-changing landscapes pass you by.
Travel with ease fro Koblenz to Rudesheim on a Rhine River cruise; No strict itineraries—get off the boat and explore local sights; Lots of variety—see castles, vineyards, Loreley Rock, and more; ... There are several different companies that offer 1-hour river cruises along the Rhine from Cologne. You can pick up the cruise from the river ...
Than the cruise the next day from Rudeisheim to St-Goar at 9:00 AM and take the boat back at 13:15 for Rudesheim where will will spend the last evening. ... it is indeed a great river to explore, just not there in Koblenz. ... and where a fair number of tourists sleep prior to a Rhine cruise; roughly 1.25 hours from Rüdesheim) or from ...
Cruise Day 5 - June 28: Rudesheim, sailing the Rhine Gorge, & Koblenz, Germany; Cruise Day 6 - June 29: Cologne, Germany & sailing to Amsterdam; Cruise Day 7 - June 30: Amsterdam, Netherlands; Cruise Day 8 - July 1: Amsterdam, Netherlands (disembarkation) Heidelberg, Germany. Day 4 of my Romantic Rhine cruise started in Mannheim ...
We will be in Germany, Austria & Switzerland from 7/17/23 until 8/11/23. We are visiting family in Potsdam, Germany for four days and family in Lutzelfluh, Switzerland for three days at the beginning and end of our trip, respectively. In between we want to do a day trip on the Rhine, visit Salzburg, Munich, Hallstatt, Gruyere, Lauterbrunnen and ...
Enjoy the world-class ambiance of our award-winning luxury yachts; Up to $3,000 in FlexCredit + 2 for 1 Fares on select yacht cruises; Cruise the waters of the Caribbean, Mediterranean, Adriatic ...
It normally navigates the Elbe River between Berlin and Prague. However, from July to October 2025, the ship will be cruising the Rhine and its tributaries. This river cruise kicks off on the Saar River, famous for the Great Bend at Mettlach (the river equivalent of a hairpin turn), and overnights in the town of Saarburg, Germany.
Compare October 2024 river cruise prices and choose from a wide variety of departure ports. ... Basel • Breisach • Strasbourg • Speyer • Rudesheim • Rhine • Koblenz • Cologne • +2 ...
This sightseeing cruise from Koblenz is a great way to explore the beauty of the Rhine River Valley in a day. The Nostalgic Route showcases castles, vineyards, and magnificent scenery, and best of all, you can get off the boat at any of the stops along the way for exploring on foot. Read more. Ages 14-99, max of 200 per group.
Compare August 2024 river cruise prices and choose from a wide variety of departure ports. ... Basel • Breisach • Strasbourg • Speyer • Rudesheim • Rhine • Koblenz • Cologne • +2 ...
Re: River Rhine Cruise from Klobenz to Rudesheim. To get from Rüdesheim to St. Goar you can either. - take the train to St. Goarshausen and the ferry to St. Goar or. - take the passenger ferry from Rüdesheim to Bingen and the train from Bingen (Stadt) to St. Goar.
Alongside the Danube, the Rhine is one of Europe's main cruise rivers. Many operators have several Rhine packages; TUI's offering covers a stellar range of cities for a very affordable price.