rhine valley day cruise

8 Highlights of a Rhine River Day Cruise, Germany

By Author Paulina

Posted on Published: November 15, 2018  - Last updated: September 13, 2022

I discovered a gem, that’s so close to my home country Luxembourg , that I cannot believe why it took me so long to explore it. I am talking about the Middle Rhine River Valley in Germany !

Steep vineyards, legendary castles on hilltops, great food and quaint wine villages are creating a truely enchanting setting. My favorite way to explore the German Middle Rhine River is by river cruise.

Let’s sail off to the best destinations for a Rhine river day cruise in Germany!

Read more about the best castles on the Rhine

There are 2 options on how to explore the Rhine River Valley, a declared UNESCO Heritage Site since 2002, by boat:

• You can either opt for a cruise that takes you from Basel or Strasbourg to the German Rhine
• or you can explore the Middle Rhine River Valley by day cruises from main Rhine towns

A European  river cruise on the Rhine can take everything in between to 2- 8 days. You sleep on the boat and enjoy entertainment and dinner on the boat. You mostly discover the highlights of the Rhine River Valley during the day trips. Some of the most popular Rhine River Cruises are

• the classical Rhine River cruise from Basel to Amsterdam
• the Romantic Rhine by Avalon Waterways

The main difference to a Rhine Day River Cruise or tour is that you don’t have your base on the boat but in one of the quaint wine villages along the river or in a larger town like Koblenz or Rüdesheim.

My favorite route to explore the gems of the Rhine River is with the Rhine Pass from Koblenz . It gives you the freedom to visit all the villages and castles at your pace. I recommend taking the route from Koblenz to Bacharach which covers all of the highlights mentioned in this post. Your base can thus be in Koblenz or in one of the quaint wine villages like Boppard, St.Goar or Bacharach.

Buy here your Rhine Boat Pass from Koblenz to Mainz

If you want to spend more time in Koblenz I recommend the River Cruise including a Cable Car ride in Koblenz and a visit to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress.

Now that you are ready to sail off, let me share with you my favorite highlights of Rhine River Day Cruise. The order is based upon my personal preference, however, you’ll find a map at the end of the post with the best of a Rhine River Day Cruise.

Read more: Things To Do in Koblenz

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General Information about Rhine Travel Geographic situation : The Rhine river flows from Switzerland along Liechtenstein , France, Germany and the Netherlands . Language : German. English is widely spoken. Currency : EUR How to get there : By airplane to Luxembourg Airport or Köln Airport Rent a car to drive from airports of Luxembourg , Köln or Düsseldorf or explore the region without restrictions. Check cheap rental car prices here Public Transport: By train. Wine villages are well connected to public transport on the train line: Mainz -Bingen – Koblenz.  Check cheap connections and prices here  Economy & Activities : Wine growing, main fluvial trade route in Europe and Tourism including cycling , hiking,  river cruises and castle hopping.

Where to stay in Middle Rhine Valley, Germany

1. bacharach, altes hause – “old house” in bacharach.

Bacharach reflects the quintessence of the Romantic Rhine : green, steep vineyards, an impressive castle, medieval ruins, timber frame houses, cobblestone streets, a perfectly maintained fortification wall and friendly people.

The dock is located only a few meters away from the historic town center. 

Like so many towns on the Rhine, Bacharach made its money from collecting taxes from the ships passing down the river. In order to absorb the romantic, absolutely relaxing atmosphere, I recommend to start your tour at one of the medieval entrance gates , make it to “ Altes Haus ”, the prettiest and oldest house (1368) in town, stroll on the main street “ Koblenzerstrasse ” packed with wine terraces.

Take “ Rosenstrasse ” to your left and walk up to the Northern entrance gate, from here it’s only 5 minutes to reach the “ Postenturm ”, the best place for panoramic views over the Rhine river and charming Bacharach village.

I was particularly intrigued by the Gothic ruins of a massive chapel, the Wernerkapelle , which lays on the way to the castle Burg Stahleck . For me, Bacharach village is the best place to enjoy the (wine) Romantic of the Rhine river.

Buy here your R hine River Day Cruise Pass to Bacharach

I highly recommend spending at 1 night in Bacharach, as the atmosphere is sublime in early mornings and at nightfall.

Where to stay in Bacharach

The best place to stay in Bacharach is Rhein-Hotel Bacharach. The hotel is family-run since 3 generations and lays on the fortification wall. Mr. Stüber, manager and cook at Rhein-Hotel Bacharach will serve you German cuisine with a modern touch. Their entire menu is based on the concept of “ Slow food” including regional and seasonal products. You can also buy local wines and liquors at Rhine-Hotel Bacharach. It’s definitely the place to stay in Bacharach.

My second favorite village for a sightseeing cruise is Boppard. Winegrowing center, it is home to several prestigious Riesling wines. Viticulture in Boppard goes back to Roman times and with its 75 hectares, one of the largest wine-growing towns in the Middle Rhine.

Boppard is the perfect place to enjoy the romantic vibe of a typical Rhine village . I recommend to wander through its narrow streets and enjoy the terraces on the Rhine promenade. I also loved to explore the particularly well-maintained fortification walls.

Buy here your Rhine River Day Cruise Pass to Boppard

The main sights of Boppard are the ancient Roman fortress and the Electorial Castle, one of the few castles along the Rhine River that hasn’t been destroyed. Usually, castles were built on hilltops, away from the villages.  

I highly recommend to include a wine tasting in Boppard in order to enjoy the locally produced white wine. Almost every restaurant will be pleased to give you an introduction to viticulture in the Rhine River Valley.

3. Sankt Goar

Goarshausen.

Sankt Goar is the last village before you reach the Lorelei Rock, it’s thus an extremely popular destination due to its central location in the Rhine Gorge. You can easily explore it in one day cruise from Koblenz.

The dock is only a few metres away from the historic town center.

Like other towns on the Rhine River, Sankt Goar has an impressive castle , Burg Rheinfels towering on a hilltop. The castle can be visited and you’ll enjoy a great view on the Rhine and on the sister town Sankt Goarshausen on the opposite river bank.

Buy here your Rhine River Day Cruise to St.Goar

Sankt Goarshausen with its own castles, Maus and Burg Katz, is connected by ferry to Sankt Goar. 

You’re looking for something quirky ? Then the Doll and Teddy bear Museum might be for you! The museum hosts a large collection of puppets, soft toys, and puppets on over 3 floors. The items come from all over the world. (Sonnengasse 8, 56239 St. Goar, +49 6741 7270)

Did you know that Sankt Goar is home to the largest free-hanging cuckoo clock in the world? It is hanging outside a souvenir store and is about 3.5 meters high and 2 meters wide. Every hour, the little figures in the clock spin and of course, the cuckoo makes its appearance. The souvenir shop, family-run business is located on the road along the Rhine River. ( Heerstr. 131, Sankt Goar 56329, +49 6741 934120)

4. Loreley Rock

View on the loreley.

The river bend and its legendary Lorelei (or Loreley ) rock are an absolute must when visiting the Middle Rhine River.

Located between the winegrowing villages of St.Goar and Oberwesel , the steep, the 194m high slate cliff is the narrowest point of the Rhine river . Shrouded in legends, this place has been depicted in countless paintings, poems, and songs. However, the most famous one is by Heinrich Heine.

The legend says that Loreley, a melancholic mermaid sits on a rock, combing her golden hair. Sailors get easily distracted by her beauty and her mesmerizing song and smash their vessels against the rocks.

Indeed the place is particularly difficult to be navigated, but there was no ship wreckage during the last decades.

Buy here your Rhine River Day Cruise along the Loreley cliff

5. Oberwesel

Oberwesel is the first stop on your Rhine River Day Cruise after the Lorelei Rock. Also known as the ‘City of Towers and Wine’ , Oberwesel is an absolutely charming place to visit due to its old city wall, the picturesque old half-timbered houses and the ancient ruin Schönburg .

Buy here your Rhine River Day Cruise to Oberwesel

Oberwesel has the oldest, largest and best-preserved city fortifications on the Middle Rhine. Of the original 22 towers of the city fortifications, 16 are still preserved today. The “ox tower” is the most famous one. The town also used to count up to nine monasteries.

Oberwesel is also the perfect departure point to hike up to Maria Ruh will from which you’ll enjoy panoramic views on the Lorelei cliff. Just follow the RheinburgenWeg signage and you’ll reach the hill in 1h30. The hike is medium-difficult and includes climbing parts.

6. Stolzenfels Castle

Princess moments in stolzenfels castle.

You’ll be spoilt for choice when it comes to castle hooping on the Middle Rhine River, but I highly recommend to visit Stolzenberg Castle, probably the epitome of Rhine romantic.

Located at only 10 minutes by car from the city center of Koblenz, Schloss Stolzenfels towers on the left river bank and offers dramatic views on the Rhine and backcountry.

Buy here your Rhine River Day Cruise to Stolzenfels

Built in the 19th century on top of medieval ruins, Stolzenfels castle is one of the prettiest castles on the Rhine river thanks to its park, artwork and fanciful, majestic exterior. Prussian Crown Prince Friedrich Wilhelm rebuilt the castle in a Gothic Revival style and it opened again in 1842. The prince even opened up the castle to foreign visitors, something very unusual at that time.

Opening hours vary with the seasons and tickets cost ~5€. You can reach the castle by foot from Stolzenfels village.

7.  Marksburg Castle

Marksburg setting.

Although I didn’t visit Marksburg castle, I particularly liked the dramatic atmosphere around the castle. Whilst I was on the opposite river bank, I had the best view on one of the most well-preserved castles in the Rhine River Valley.

Towering above the of Braubach , the Marksburg is one of the principal sites of the Rhine Gorge UNESCO World Heritage Site. In opposite to other Rhine river castles, the fortress was used for protection rather than as a residence for royal families.

Of the 40 hill castles between Bingen am Rhein and Koblenz the Marksburg was the only one which was never destroyed. That means that the Marksburg was left basically unchanged since Medieval Ages.

Guided visits cost 7€ and can be arranged here .

From B 42, in the direction of Rüdesheim or Koblenz, use the exit to Braubach and follow the signs to “Marksburg”. You will find a spacious parking site close to the castle.

8. Visit Bingen

Mäuseturm in bingen.

Bingen was not only home to one of the most remarkable women in the Middle Ages, Hildegard von Bingen , but also a perfect stop during your Rhine River Day cruise.

Surrounded by vineyards, Bingen is one of the larger towns on the Rhine river. Some of the must-sees in Bingen include the wooden crane and the Klopp castle who has been destroyed several times during the last centuries. From here you’ll enjoy beautiful views on the town and on the river. The castle site also hosts a restaurant . 

Buy here your Rhine River Day Cruise to Bingen

The icon of Bingen is the Mouse Tower ( Mäuseturm ) shrouded in historic traditions and legends. Located on a small island in the Rhine River just outside Bingen, it makes for a nice photo opportunity from the river bank or a boat.

The legend says that the cruel archbishop of Mainz, locked up the peasants of the town in a barn and set it on fire. He got chased out of his castle and halfway across the river to the tower by an army of mice who ate him alive.

I hope some of these, admittedly very personal, highlights of my visit to the Middle Rhine River Valley in Germany  could convince you to include the region in your travel plans.

Have you been in the Rhine River Valley, Germany? Did you enjoy it? I would love to hear about the things you loved (or loved less) in the comment form. 

Map: Highlights of a Rhine River Day Cruise, Germany

Before You Go: Top Tips for your Trip 

• You’ll snap tons of photos and I love to take my  GoPro  in order to shoot even in extreme situations. 
• Make sure to wear comfortable  walking shoes  and  hiking sandals  when traveling to warm countries. 
• Sunscreen is key! I always take with me my  eco-friendly sunscreen  by Thinksport.  Buy here your eco-friendly sunscreen + free shipping.
• I always carry a  light rain jacket,  just in case.
• Travel insurance is essential! If you haven’t already obtained travel insurance for your trip, travel protected against all odds with  World Nomads.

In order to get  more information  on tourism in Rhine River Valley, Germany, I recommend the site of the Romantic Rhine Tourism.

Disclaimer: I have been a guest of Romantischer Rhein Touristik. All my opinions, as always, are my own. This post contains affiliate links. In case you purchase one of the items, I’ll receive a small commission. The price remains the same for you.

Hola! I’m Paulina, a seasoned travelette who crossed the Atlantic Ocean by Boat HitchHiking. On my blog, find expert insights for an extraordinary holiday through outdoor and sustainable travel like hiking, cycling, and sailing. Let’s embark on unforgettable journeys together! 🌍🚀

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A Day Cruise on the Rhine River in Germany

One of the most memorable day trips we took while living in Germany was for our anniversary, a cruise on the Rhine River. With multitudes of castles strung throughout the hilly banks of the river, it’s the best way to see and learn about the reigning history of Germany.

Here’s a Day Cruise on the Rhine River in Germany:

Info for the Rhine River Boat Tour

With multiple route options to choose from, we opt for embarking from Bingen. Buying our tickets through the Bingen-Ruedesheimer company, the cost was around 15 Euro per person.

While there are a multitude of tour options, we chose the castle excursion for a chance to see up to 20 castles. A tour guide on the boat discusses the history behind each as we float by. For an up close and personal castle experience, the boat docks at multiple villages. A second boat rounds back every hour for you to grab and continue on down the river.

Since I wanted to see all of the castles in our short time on the Rhine, we didn’t depart the boat at any time but I loved seeing them from the water.

The German Castles Along the Rhine River

With more than 20 different castles to view, it’s hard to decide which one is worthy of your time to stop at. I’ll go into detail about each one in this post, while also giving historic information about them!

Burg Ehrenfels

Although the actual date of construction is unknown, Burg Ehrenfels was used as a customs point on the Rhine in the 1200s. A ‘Mouse Tower’ was built on an islet in the water across from the castle to ensure complete supervision over the Rhine. Burg Ehrenfels was damaged in the Thirty Years’ War, then completely ruined during the Siege of Mainz in 1689.

Vineyards dating back to the 13th century still dominate the cliff around Burg Ehrenfels, where the Ehrenfelser grape was born.

A hike to the ruins is possible, taking about an hour, but the castle is officially now closed off to tours.

Burg Rheinstein

Only a few years after it was constructed in 1316, Burg Rheinstein suffered from the wars fought around it. In the late 1800s, it was purchased by a Prussian Prince and rebuilt into what stands today. The castle features multiple drawbridges and doors that resemble the Medieval era. With a courtyard hosting a 500 500 year old vineyard, grapes are still produced today.

You can visit Burg Rheinstein on a tour from March to November.

Burg Reichenstein

Burg Reichenstein, also known as Falkenburg, is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Sight. While the exact date of construction is unknown, it was first mentioned in 1213. Much debate lies around the history of this castle but theory suggests that Dietrich von Hohenfels’ inherited it after the death of his father. Eventually, Hohenfels became known as a robber knight and had a small army join him. In 1282, King Rudolph I of Habsburg flooded the area of the castle with his men, successfully capturing Hohenfels and his people. He destroyed the hostages and the castle, forbidding it to be rebuilt. Over the next few hundred years, the castle fell into many different hands but was finally restored in 1834 into what it is today.

Burg Reichenstein is open to the public and also features a restaurant and hotel.

Sooneck, another UNESCO World Heritage Sight, has a similar history to that of Burg Reichenstein. Hohenfels and his Lords ran this castle as well until it was also besieged by King Rudolph I in 1282. The castle fell into many different families over the next 300 years but when their bloodline ran out, it was no longer taken care of. Along with every castle on the left bank of the Rhine, it was destroyed during the War of Palatine Succession, specifically by the army of King Louis XIV of France in 1689. In 1834, the castle was rebuilt by the Prince of Prussia and his brothers, converting it into a hunting lodge but never was used. After WWI, it was handed over to the State then given to the State Ministry of Castles, who still own it today.

The Sooneck Castle is open to the public for tours.

Stahleck Castle was built in the 10th century by the Archbishop of Cologne and features a rare characteristic of German castles, a moat. In the 11th century, Goswin von Falkenburg inherited the castle through his marriage to Luitgard von Hengebach, a widow of a Holy Roman Empire King. Their son married a woman who was brothers with King Conrad III of Germany. In 1140, that son exchanged Stahleck to King Conrad. This in turn made him one of the greatest Lords of the Holy Roman Empire because he already owned two other castles along the Rhine River. Since Stahleck was between the two, he made Bacharach into a trading town for the wine they grew on the vineyards. After many deaths, inheritances and exchanges of hands, Stahleck was conquered and destroyed multiple times during the Thirty Years’ War. Spaniards and French continued to capture the castle but it ultimately was blown up by the French in 1689. The castle ruins continued to be traded to different hands but in 1909, it was passed over to a restoration organization by the Prussians.

In 1925, the castle was turned over to the Rhineland-Palatinate Youth Hostel Association. It still operates as a hostel today with 168 beds.

Burg Gutenfels

Burg Gutenfels was built in 1220 and was used as a toll castle per the Holy Roman Empire. Pfalzgrafenstein is the small white castle on its own island in the middle of the Rhine River. Built to guard customs posts and for long-distance trade routes, it served as a sort of border crossing. Back in its prime, walls connected the two castles, leading directly down from Gutenfels and across the water to Pfalzgrafenstein. Prussia purchased the castle in 1866, ending the tolls a year later.

Today, the castle is a UNESCO World Heritage Sight and was once used as a hotel but transferred to a private residence in 2006.

Schönburg Castle was first mentioned in the early 900s, with the Duke of Schönburg imposing tolls and taxes for passing by. The bloodline of all heirs eventually died out in the 1600s. It was then burnt down by French troops during the Palatinate Wars. The ruins of the castle were left for two centuries until it was restored.

Today it’s leased to a family who operates a restaurant and hotel there .

Loreley is the name for the large cliff that juts out into the Rhine River. Synonymous with many myths and legends, the name comes from German and Celtic terms meaning ‘murmuring rock.’ Legend says that a mermaid, scorned by her lover, would sit on the edge of this rock brushing her golden hair and singing sweet tunes. Apparently this caused the captains of the ships below to wreck into the rock. Loreley has been the focus of many German poems and songs, allowing the folklore legend to live on.

Located around the bend of Loreley, Burg Katz was constructed in 1371 by Count William II of Katzenelnbogen. In 1435, the Count was the first to plant a Riesling vineyard here which still exists today. Burg Katz was seized and destroyed by Napolean in 1806.

The castle was restored in 1896 and is now privately owned.

Constructed by Count Diether V of Katzenelnbogen in 1245, Rheinfels is the largest fortress in the Middle Rhein Valley. It’s also the largest castle on the Rhine River. Rheinfels features the largest butter-churn tower in Germany and the largest self-supporting vaulted cellar in Europe. The cellar can fit up to 400 people and is used today as a meeting place for concerts and other events.

In 1797, the French Revolutionary Army destroyed the castle completely.

While much of the castle remains as ruins today, the fortress is so massive that it supports a luxury hotel, a restaurant, wellness center and a museum.

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From the Heart of Alsace to Summits in the Swiss Alps (port-to-port cruise)

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A cruise along the romantic Rhine River—a guaranteed festive and fun time for all. Climb aboard and enjoy lunch in a medieval setting with minstrel music, experience a gourmet Rüdesheimer Kaffee in Rüdesheim, and discover lively Heidelberg and its traditional  Studentenküss chocolates. And to top it all off, we'll see a revue at the famous Royal Palace Music Hall—some even call it "Las Vegas in Alsace!"  

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“Loreley magic” in the UNESCO World Heritage Site “Upper Middle Rhine Valley”

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Discover the Rhine from its most beautiful side on a boat trip to the legendary Loreley New: Book our popular transport packages including boat trip, breakfast, lunch or a coffee table on board. Combine your excursion with a visit to the impressive Loreley Plateau or immerse yourself in history and explore one of the numerous castles.

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Get in the mood for the festive season with our Christmas tours. Enjoy the boat trip with winter delicacies to Rüdesheim and visit the famous “Christmas Market of Nations” there. Or explore the Rheinstein Christmas Castle and immerse yourself in a fairytale atmosphere.

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Panorama trip to the loreley, castle tour to rüdesheim.

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"Wonderful!! Food and staff were above average par none!!!" George, traveled in August 2022

River Cruise Family Historical +1

Classical Rhine Cruise (Basel - Amsterdam)

"The food was delicious and presented elegantly. I would highly recommend and plan to book again." Diana, traveled in April 2024

From Amsterdam to Basel: The Treasures of the Celebrated Rhine River (port-to-port cruise)

"Good value with excellent service and food" Paul, traveled in October 2023

Reviews of Rhine Cruises

Well organised with plenty to see.

I went on this cruise with my 83 year old mum, and we had the best time. The ship was very nice and the crew were all so friendly, from the Captain, to the mangement and reception staff, to the bar and wait staff, kitchen staff and room attendants - they felt like family by the end of our cruise. They also made a big celebration for my mum’s birthday ? Also a big shout out to Jessica, our cruise guide, and Renata the on board entertainer - both beautiful and accommodating ladies ❤️ We saw amazing places and beautiful scenery. The food was first class and the cocktails amazing. I would recommend this cruise to anyone.

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.

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"The crew and organisers on board were brilliant especially as they had to cope with changes due to Rhine flooding. They made sure we were informed and provided alternative visits to unscheduled sites - very enjoyable. They were warm and friendly at all times.

Crucemundo is an expert in:

"Great service, good guides, excellent food

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Romantic Rhine River Cruises

Rhine River Cruises

2024 romantic rhine river cruise departures now available.

Explore one of Europe’s most beloved rivers, from or to Strasbourg , discover the Rhine on a cruise in the heart of the Romantic Rhine Valley that seems to be straight out of the pages of a storybook. There is a reason why this river still one of the most important and busiest when it comes to river cruising. The Romantic Rhine Valley offers magical and fairy tale landscapes, numerous castles, grand cathedrals, age-old winelands, and picturesque villages to discover along the water.

A cruise on the Romantic Rhine Valley is a must-see and an ideal way to discover fabulous Alsatian and German cities and small towns such as Frankfurt, Rothenburg or Nuremberg . Full of history, natural beauty and fascinating legends, including the Lorelei Rock , Alsace and Germany’s folklore await to unfold around you.

Whether you choose to sail on the enchanting Neckar , the romantic Rhine , the picturesque Moselle , or the Saar and its preserved landscapes, your CroisiEurope river cruise will help you discover Europe, on board a boat with exceptional comfort, in a warm and friendly atmosphere and with meals which will delight your taste buds. This is a feast for all the senses. Taste Alsacian’s renowned white wines and savor the authentic culinary traditions of Alsace and Germany. Stroll along narrow cobblestoned lanes and explore traditional and authentic idyllic villages and their half-timbered houses.

You just cannot go wrong with a cruise along the Romantic Rhine as it is a great destination for food and wine amateurs as well as history and architecture lovers. Discover the unique magic of the Rhine River and explore vineyards, quaint medieval towns, castles, and breathtaking scenery with Europe’s largest and most experienced Rhine River cruise line.

Sail with CroisiEurope,  largest European river cruise line  running the best all-inclusive value on the market. CroisiEurope takes you away for much less, but still includes it all: 

Complimentary beverages

 Complimentary Excursion package

Superb French cuisine and impeccable service

Authentic experience

The Rhine in Flames

STRASBOURG - RUDESHEIM - KOBLENZ - RUDESHEIM - MANNHEIM - STRASBOURG

Koblenz: admire the "Rhine in Flames" on a glittering summer night that will light up the hillsides and surrounding castles into a magical light. Embark on an unforgettable and colorful cruise through the romantic Rhine Valley, through the Rüdesheim vineyard and open-air cafes and the beautiful city of Heidelberg.

Romantic German Sites and the Charming Neckar Valley

STRASBOURG - MANNHEIM - HEIDELBERG - EBERBACH - HEILBRONN - LAUFFEN - STUTTGART

The Neckar River is a serpentine tributary of the Rhine that crisscrosses bucolic landscapes, lush forests, and lovely cities.

STUTTGART - LAUFFEN - GUNDELSHEIM - EBERBACH - HEIDELBERG - MANNHEIM - STRASBOURG

The Neckar River is a serpentine tributary of the Rhine that crisscrosses bucolic landscapes, lush forests, and lovely cities

The Romantic Rhine Valley and the Rock of Lorelei

STRASBOURG - KOBLENZ - The romantic Rhine valley - RUDESHEIM - MANNHEIM - STRASBOURG

Discover the Rhine Valley and the legend of the famous Lorelei rock! It is said that a beautiful maiden threw herself into the Rhine in despair over a faithless lover and was transformed into a siren who lured fishermen to destruction. Embark on a surprising cruise through sublime landscapes that will take you to Koblenz and Rüdesheim, known for its vineyards and traditional cafes. 

The Rhine in celebration (Port-Port)

STRASBOURG - OBERWESEL - RÜDESHEIM - MANNHEIM - Heidelberg - STRASBOURG

A cruise along the romantic Rhine River—a guaranteed festive and fun time for all. Climb aboard and enjoy lunch in a medieval setting with minstrel music, experience a gourmet Rüdesheimer Kaffee in Rüdesheim, and discover lively Heidelberg and its traditional  Studentenküss chocolates. And to top it all off, we'll see a revue at the famous Royal Palace Music Hall—some even call it "Las Vegas in Alsace!"  

From the Heart of Alsace to Summits in the Swiss Alps

STRASBOURG - BREISACH - Colmar - BASEL - Jungfraujoch - BASEL - STRASBOURG

An unforgettable, exclusive cruise to discover the cultural, architectural, and natural treasures between Alsace and the Swiss Alps. Join us for an invaluable experience, where each day delivers a jackpot of wonders and adventures. Board our ship in Strasbourg, a cosmopolitan, picturesque city with a vibrant past. During your vacation, immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere surrounding Strasbourg and its canals, explore Colmar's charming streets, and absorb the captivating artwork at the Hansi Village and its museum. Then, set off for a magnificent journey to snow-capped mountains during an excursion to the Jungfraujoch, where breathtaking views of white summits and sparking glaciers exist all year round. Join us for a once-in-a-lifetime experience combining culture, history, and nature, and guaranteed to leave you with everlasting memories.

The Rhine and Moselle Rivers

STRASBOURG - MAINZ - RÜDESHEIM - BOPPARD - KOBLENZ - ALKEN - COCHEM - Strasbourg

From Strasbourg to Cochem, discover the magic of the romantic Rhine valley and the Moselle on an exceptional cruise where rivers meander between breath-taking landscapes and castles dominating hillsides. Explore authentic towns and villages with hidden gems, such as Alken and its Thurant castle, or stroll in Boppard along one of the most beautiful banks of Germany.

The romantic Rhine Valley and the rock of the Lorelei

STRASBOURG - RUDESHEIM - KOBLENZ - MAINZ - RASTATT - STRASBOURG

Embark on a cruise on the Rhine between Alsace and Germany through an incredible diversity of landscapes, cultures, and stories. Dive into the heart of an authentic terroir rich in discoveries.

The Romantic Rhine Valley and Holland

STRASBOURG - MANNHEIM - NIERSTEIN - RÜDESHEIM - COLOGNE - AMSTERDAM

Cruise along the romantic Rhine Valley between historic castles and legendary landscapes, from Strasbourg to Amsterdam via Rüdesheim and its renowned vineyards. Hear the fascinating story of the Lorelei rock before you reach Cologne, one of the oldest German cities. A cruise that will not fail to charm you.

The Valley of the romantic Rhine, the Moselle and the Main

STRASBOURG - FRANKFURT - COCHEM - KOBLENZ - RÜDESHEIM - MANNHEIM - STRASBOURG

Discover breathtaking landscapes along 3 rivers: the romantic Rhine valley, the Moselle and the Main. Impressive and unforgettable, our cruise will let you discover unmissable cities, from old Strasbourg to the Cochem castle, via the Frankfurt Main Tower, the Niederwald monument and Heidelberg.

Cruising the Rhine River in Germany

• September 25, 2014
• / By Charlie and Brittany
• / 3 COMMENTS

Germany has always been at the top of our bucket list , although we always felt it was a distant dream. A place we would visit “someday” and that someday always felt very far away. That is until we spontaneously booked a flight to Frankfurt when our plans to visit Australia fell through. Thank you, Skyscanner. The excitement of finally getting to see Germany definitely took the sting away from not going to Australia. In fact, I think I was even more excited…

Our three weeks traveling through Europe were truly incredible. We celebrated Munich’s birthday with the locals , took a day trip through the majestic Alps to the Eagle’s Nest, took an evening cruise on the Seine River and watched the Eiffel Tower glittering in all its glory , devoured beer and waffles in one of the most charming cities in the world , and strolled along the canals in Amsterdam gawking at those windows with the pretty red lights.  The first thing most people asked when we returned home from our 21 days in Europe was “which country was your favorite?” For us, there was really no debate. Germany not only reached our high expectations, but it exceeded them in every way despite our first impressions of Frankfurt . While we both fell in love with Munich and are positive we will return to explore more of Bavaria, there was one place that caught us by surprise. In fact, it wasn’t even in our original plans but we decided to make a detour to meet up with a friend in Cologne and every one made it perfectly clear we could not leave Germany without a cruise on the Rhine River.

Where is the Rhine River?

The Rhine River actually begins in Switzerland and flows through Germany, eventually dumping into the North Sea in the Netherlands. However, the section of the Rhine that we were most interested in seeing is the 65 kilo stretch of the Upper Middle Rhine Valley between Bingen and Koblenz. This is said the be the most scenic section of the Rhine due to the number of historic castles, romantic towns and wine vineyards peaking over the mountain cliffs, which is why it was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2002. Since then, it has been a huge draw for tourists all over the world to check off cruising the Rhine River from their bucket list.

Rhine River Day Cruise: Rudesheim to Koblenz

Cologne is a perfect base if you are looking to do a day cruise on the UNESCO section of the Rhine. While there are cruises that run straight from Cologne, you wouldn’t be able to see the UNESCO section in one day. Since we only had a day to spare, we decided to take the train from our Airbnb apartment ( if you want to give AirBNB a try, sign up through our referral link and we both get a $25 credit…its a win win!—> click here ) in Cologne to Rudesheim and then cruise downstream to Koblenz. By choosing this route, the cruise was only 4 hours, where if we had gone upriver, Koblenz to Rudesheim, then the cruise would have been closer to 6 hours.

Where to Buy Tickets

We had a really difficult time finding any information about how these day cruises actually work. In fact, we went to the tourism office in Cologne and talked to many other cruise companies along the river and they kept telling us what we wanted wasn’t possible – to cruise the UNESCO part of the Rhine in one day. They kept offering us cruises that left from Cologne, which wouldn’t have covered the area we were looking to see. Fortunately, we were able to find a phone number for KD, which is the boat company that offers these cruises and they were able to help us out. Unfortunately, this took us longer than we had anticipated and we nearly missed our opportunity by just barely catching the last boat of the day that would allow us to travel the entire trip between Rudesheim and Koblenz. This meant that we would not have time to get off the boat and explore the towns, but we were just glad to have made it on. That being said, we were able to purchase our tickets from the KD booth right at the port in Rudesheim. Most (or maybe all?) of the ports sell tickets right where you board the boat. You might be able to purchase online or by phone as well, but I suggest checking the website.

Cruise Life

The cruise ship was much larger than we anticipated and surprisingly not that crowded, given it was June which is considered peak season. The bathrooms were very clean, the dining area was large and often empty and there was plenty of seating available indoors and out. There was a small playground for kids to play, as I can imagine this cruise might not be the most exciting thing for them. There was also a bar selling an array of wine and beer, as well as some snacks for the ride. For a more substantial meal, we decided to visit the dining room. We were among only 1 other couple in the massive dining room, so it was very peaceful and the views were spectacular – we never missed a beat. We were delighted to see that food prices were pretty reasonable and the food was really delicious. However, I think my favorite was the Loreley Wine, named after the famous Lorelai Rock that signifies that narrowest part of the river between Switzerland and the North Sea. Legend has it that Lorelai is the name of a woman that would sit upon the rock brushing her hair, distracting the sailors causing them to crash into the rocks. This is one of the most popular sightings along the cruise.

A Few Shots of the Many, Stunning Rhine River Castles

Costs of Cruising the Rhine River

As I previously mentioned, we opted for taking the train from Cologne to Rudesheim and then cruising the river back to Koblenz. From Koblenz, we then had the take the train back to Cologne.

While 100 USD was quite the splurge for us and not exactly in our original budget, it was so worth every penny and we would definitely do it again if given the opportunity. However, next time we will plan ahead and take the first departure that would allow us to hop off the boat at some of the towns and explore a bit more. Each town had its own unique charm with castles and historic buildings to discover. You could easily spend days traversing the Upper Middle Rhine Valley and it still not be enough. That being said, we were glad we had even just a day to see it. It turned out to be one of the most memorable experiences we’ve had to date.

Don’t miss our video tour of the Rhine River 

About the Author Charlie and Brittany

We are Brittany and Charlie - we traded the 9 to 5 and the so-called "American dream" to live our own dream and see the world. We sold all of our belongings and left the US in August 2013. For 5 years, we lived primarily in Thailand and built our online business and location independent lifestyle while we traveled to over 30 countries. We’ve had house sitting gigs on 3 different continents and we’ve even appeared on HGTV’s House Hunters International.

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[…] I never would have guessed we would hit 10 countries and I especially didn’t expect to be traveling to Germany and Paris and Amsterdam. There’s no telling where this year will take us, but I’m sure […]

[…] traveling through the Alps to climbing the Eiffel Tower, visiting the coffee shops in Amsterdam and cruising down the Rhine River. We were on a complete high (not just from the coffee shops) for 3 weeks, and then before we could […]

thanks for the info. we are trying to decide what to do with the 5 days we have after Rome. Not sure how current this post is, and you may have learned even more since written, but it was a good beginning for us.

thanks Barb

The 10 best places to go on a river cruise in Europe 

Jun 7, 2024 • 8 min read

Appreciate the beautiful architecture of Budapest from the Danube © Sanga Park / Shutterstock

Cruising down a quiet, traffic-free river, surrounded by scenic riverfront views is an ideal way to see Europe . You can sip your wine while watching picture-perfect scenery breeze past – taking in castles, medieval villages and fields of flowers. 

By necessity, European riverboats are small and passenger numbers are often fewer than 200, making these cruises a far more social and intimate experience. There’s also plenty to do and see onshore, and with more frequent stops you can enjoy more onshore activities. Cruise lines are now also offering more immersive learning experiences such as cooking classes and home visits, or activities like bicycle trips and long hikes.

The hardest part is choosing where to go — which is why we've rounded up the 10 best places to go on a European river cruise. 

1. Northern Rhine (Germany)

From gorgeous river meanders and noble German cities

The northern section of the Rhine features dramatic landscapes and a host of interesting towns. Cologne (Köln), Germany ’s fourth-largest city, offers numerous attractions starting with its famous cathedral, while Koblenz, at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers, is a park- and flower-filled delight. Heading south, the Rhine meanders between hillside castles and steep fields of wine-producing grapes. Idyllic villages appear around each bend, their half-timbered houses and Gothic steeples seemingly plucked from a fairy tale. Scarcely damaged during WWII, handsome Speyer is crowned by a magnificent Romanesque cathedral. 

2. Southern Rhine (France, Germany & Switzerland)

Explore intriguing towns in this border land

The Southern Rhine forms the border between Germany and France before becoming Switzerland ’s northern frontier. Strasbourg is the perfect overture to all that is idiosyncratic about Alsace – walking a fine tightrope between France and Germany, between a medieval past and a progressive future. Further south, the Black Forest spills into Alsace in the German town of Breisach. Unsurprisingly, given its geographical and cultural proximity to France, the locals here have a passion for a good bottle of wine. Basel, at the juncture of the French, German and Swiss borders, is perhaps where Switzerland’s Franco-Germanic roots are most evident.

3. Rhône (France)

Indulge in gourmet experiences cruising the south of France

Commanding a strategic spot at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône Rivers, grand old Lyon is France’s gastronomic capital. Downstream, the Rhône forges past Vienne’s Roman ruins and the centuries-old Côtes du Rhône vineyards, opening to sunny vistas of fruit orchards, lavender fields and the distant Alps as it continues south. During the 14th century, the Provençal town of Avignon was the center of the Roman Catholic world. Its impressive legacy of ecclesiastical architecture most notably includes the soaring, World Heritage-listed Palais des Papes .

4. Western Danube (Austria & Germany)

Romantic landscapes in the heart of Europe

The baroque streetscapes and imperial palaces set the stage for Vienna ’s artistic and musical masterpieces alongside its coffee-house culture and vibrant epicurean and design scenes. Moving into Germany, the Danube gently winds its way to the Italianate city of Passau . Top billing in eastern Bavaria goes to Regensburg, a former capital and one of Germany’s prettiest and liveliest cities. Nuremberg (Nürnberg), Bavaria’s second-largest city and the unofficial capital of Franconia, is an energetic place with a history that ranges from undeclared capital of the Holy Roman Empire to the trials that judged Nazi war crimes.

5. Eastern Danube (Hungary & Serbia)

Travel a cross-section of Europe’s less-touristed east

The two great cities of this stretch of the Danube are the capitals of Hungary and Serbia respectively. Budapest has something for everyone – from dramatic history and flamboyant architecture to healing thermal waters. Outspoken, adventurous, proud and audacious: Belgrade ("White City") has a gritty exuberance and eclectic architecture making it one of Europe’s most happening cities today. While it hurtles towards a brighter future, its past unfolds before your eyes: socialist blocks are squeezed between art nouveau masterpieces and remnants of the Habsburg legacy contrast with Ottoman relics.

6. Douro (Portugal)

See spectacular terraced vineyards, the home of port wine

The Douro region, home to port wine, is simply one of the most glorious spots on earth. The Douro Valley showcases steep terraced vineyards carved into mountains, granite bluffs, whitewashed quintas (estates) and 18th-century wine cellars that draw visitors from around the world. Humble-yet-opulent Porto entices with its higgledy-piggledy medieval center, divine food and wine, and charismatic locals. Its charms are as subtle as the nuances of an aged tawny port, best savored slowly.

7. Elbe (Czech Republic & Germany)

A little-cruised but picturesque stretch of Central Europe

Covering the Czech Republic and a thick slice of eastern Germany, Elbe cruises are under-the-radar options. Prague , not on the Elbe but usually included on river cruises, contends with cities like Budapest and Paris in terms of beauty. Its maze of cobbled lanes and hidden courtyards is perfect for the aimless wanderer. The classic view of Dresden from the Elbe’s northern bank takes in spires, towers and domes belonging to palaces, churches and stately buildings: hard to believe that the city was all but wiped off the map by Allied bombings in 1945. While the city of Wittenberg is first and foremost about Martin Luther, the monk who triggered the German Reformation in 1517.

8. Seine (France)

Cruise out of Paris through northern France

Paris has a timeless familiarity, with instantly recognizable architectural icons, memorable cuisine and chic boutiques. Dining is a quintessential part of the Parisian experience, and its art repository is one of the best, showcasing priceless treasures in palatial museums. Don't miss Rouen is one of Normandy’s most engaging and historically rich destinations, with its soaring Gothic cathedral, beautifully restored medieval quarter, excellent museums and vibrant cultural life. At the mouth of the Seine, Le Havre is a love letter to modernism, evoking France’s postwar energy and optimism.

9. Main (Germany)

A seductive German river connecting to the Rhine and Danube

Rising in Franconia and joining the Rhine near Mainz, the Main (pronounced "mine") is the longest German-only river. From Bamberg to its confluence, it travels some 400km through locks and picturesque scenery, dotted with historic towns. Frankfurt ’s skyscrapers are quite a contrast to the picturesque towns that follow, though it too has a rather traditional and charming old town. Scenic Würzburg is renowned for its art, architecture and delicate wines. A disarmingly beautiful architectural masterpiece, Bamberg’s entire Altstadt is a UNESCO World Heritage site. 

10. Moselle (Germany)

An intimate stretch of the wine-producing German region

Having traversed France and Luxembourg , the Moselle heads through Germany to meet its destiny with the Rhine at Koblenz. It’s a very pretty stretch of river flanked by vineyards, and makes for great leisurely cruising and exploration. With an astounding nine UNESCO World Heritage sites, gorgeous Trier shelters Germany’s finest ensemble of Roman monuments, and is enlivened by a characterful medieval center and large student population. Bernkastel-Kues are lovely twin settlements in the heart of wine country, while Cochem’s castle and pretty buildings make it a visual highlight of the Moselle .

How do I choose a route for a European river cruise?

The two major rivers for European cruises are the Rhine and the Danube. Together, they were once the northern boundary of the Roman Empire. Rhine cruises often run from Amsterdam to Basel, following the course of the river through Germany. Danube cruises start in southern Germany, wend their way through Bratislava, Slovakia; Linz and Vienna, Austria; and Belgrade, Serbia; then skirt the Bulgarian and Romanian border to reach the Black Sea.

While many first-time European river cruisers stick to these two rivers, there are many other options available. In Western Europe, you can cruise through the French countryside on the Rhône and Seine, or check out the vineyards of Portugal on the Douro. 

Even on the same river, distinct routes can be offered. One company might zip up the Rhine, allowing you to see the highlights in a few days; another might take longer, exploring smaller places along the way and offering more time for onshore experiences. You'll need to decide whether you’d like to get a look at more destinations, or more of a feel for fewer places.

When is the best time to go on a European river cruise?

Cruises on European rivers tend to begin in the spring, around March, and go through to October. Some cruises, operating in areas where Christmas markets are a feature, run right through December but inclement weather or river flooding could put a dampener on plans. Winter cruises tend to focus on places where Christmas experiences are on offer. Shorter daylight hours mean you’ll see less scenery, but the charm of the festive season has its own appeal. 

Choosing your season is very much a matter of personal preference, and there are pros and cons for each season. Summer cruises offer the most spectacular scenery, the longest daylight hours and the best weather, but the towns you visit will be far busier and you won’t be alone in port; in some smaller places, you may have to scramble across the decks of other boats to reach the shore.

Spring and autumn mean less time around the pool on the top deck, but quieter times ashore. Expect rains in spring, but also blooming flowers. Autumn is a great time to cruise the Douro, with grapes being picked and clement temperatures.

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