Overview of the Rhine River and River Cruises
The Rhine River is one of Europe’s most famous waterways, winding through six countries and full of history and beauty. When you see ads and brochures about river cruising, the hilltop castles along the Rhine, especially Katz Castle are usually front and center. So if you’ve been enticed by these ads, then a Rhine river cruise is perfect for you!
Stretching from Switzerland to the Netherlands, the Rhine takes you past breathtaking landscapes, medieval castles, and charming little towns along the way. Most Rhine River cruises start or end in cities like Amsterdam, Basel, or Cologne, and they usually cover the stunning Upper Middle Rhine Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site known for its castles and vineyards. Some cruises even take a detour along the Moselle River, adding even more beautiful scenery and incredible wine regions to the trip. It’s the perfect mix of history, culture, and natural beauty!
Embarkation City Spotlight: Basel, Switzerland
Basel is often called the cultural capital of Switzerland, and it’s easy to see why! This vibrant city sits at the crossroads of France and Germany, blending different cultures with its own unique charm. Basel is a major hub for art, home to over 40 museums, including the renowned Kunstmuseum, and hosts Art Basel, one of the world’s most prestigious contemporary art fairs. Basel is also famous for its watchmaking heritage, with Swiss craftsmanship at the heart of the city’s identity. When it comes to food, don’t miss trying Basler flour soup, a rich, hearty dish often enjoyed during carnival, and Basler Leckerli, a spiced gingerbread-like cookie that’s perfect with a cup of coffee. Whether you’re exploring the medieval old town or enjoying a riverside café along the Rhine, Basel offers a wonderful mix of history, art, and local flavor!
Places River Cruises Stop Along the Rhine
Rhine River cruises take you through multiple countries including large cities, medieval towns, and scenic valleys. Some of the most notable stops along this route include:
- Amsterdam, Netherlands: Famous for its iconic canals, world-class art museums, and rich history, Amsterdam is often the starting or ending point for many Rhine cruises. It’s a great city to explore, with its cozy cafés and bike-friendly streets.
- Kinderdijk, Netherlands: Famous for its iconic windmills, Kinderdijk is a UNESCO World Heritage site that offers a glimpse into the Netherlands’ long history of water management. It’s a peaceful, scenic stop that’s perfect for exploring on foot or by bike.
- Cologne, Germany: Cologne is famous for its towering Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and its lively cultural scene. Be sure to explore the old town, filled with breweries serving up the city’s beloved Kölsch beer.
- Koblenz, Germany: At the meeting point of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers, Koblenz is home to the Deutsches Eck (German Corner) and the impressive Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. It’s a historic city with beautiful riverside views.
- Rüdesheim, Germany: This picturesque wine town in the Rheingau region is known for its vineyards, half-timbered houses, and the lively Drosselgasse lane. Don’t forget to try Rüdesheim coffee, a delicious treat made with local Asbach brandy, coffee, and whipped cream—perfect after a day of exploring! Most cruises will offer some on board once you return from your excursion.
- Speyer, Germany: Known for its impressive Speyer Cathedral, one of the largest and most important Romanesque buildings in Europe, this historic city is rich with medieval charm. The old town is a lovely place to wander, and there’s even a fascinating museum dedicated to technology and space exploration.
- Strasbourg, France: Nestled on the French-German border, Strasbourg is known for its charming timber-framed houses and the stunning Notre-Dame Cathedral. The city beautifully blends French and German influences, making it a must-see stop.
- Heidelberg, Germany: A stop in Heidelberg feels like stepping into a fairytale, with its romantic castle ruins overlooking the city and its beautiful old town filled with cobblestone streets. It’s also home to one of the oldest universities in Europe.
Example Excursions
Excursions along the Rhine are packed with history, wine, and stunning scenery. Here are a few favorites:
- Cologne Cathedral: Explore the breathtaking Gothic architecture of this UNESCO World Heritage site, and if you’re feeling adventurous, climb the towers for amazing views of the city and the Rhine.
- Rüdesheim Wine Tasting: Head to the heart of the Rhine Valley for a wine-tasting tour at local vineyards—perfect for sampling the region’s famous wines.
- Strasbourg Walking Tour: Wander through Strasbourg’s charming old town, a UNESCO World Heritage site, with highlights like the stunning Notre-Dame Cathedral and the picturesque Petite France district.
- Ehrenbreitstein Fortress: Hop on a cable car for a ride up to this fortress overlooking Koblenz, where you’ll get incredible views of where the Rhine and Moselle rivers meet.
- Lorelei Rock: Many cruises pass by this iconic slate rock in the UNESCO-listed Upper Middle Rhine Valley, famous for its steep cliffs and the legends that surround it.
Walkability
Most of the towns and cities along the Rhine River are highly walkable, with many attractions located near the riverbanks. Cologne, Strasbourg, and Koblenz all have compact historic centers that are easy to explore on foot. Smaller towns like Rüdesheim and Bacharach are also perfect for walking, with narrow cobblestone streets lined with half-timbered houses and cozy wine taverns. Wear comfortable walking shoes!
In larger cities like Amsterdam and Basel, public transportation options such as trams and buses are available, but the main sights are often within walking distance of the port. Many cruises offer guided walking tours.
Local Culture and History
The Rhine River has been a cultural and economic hub for Europe for centuries, connecting cities and regions through trade routes that date all the way back to Roman times. Along its banks, you’ll find medieval castles, stunning cathedrals, and quaint wine villages, all telling the story of the region’s rich history.
The Upper Middle Rhine Valley, also known as the Romantic Rhine, is especially famous for its 40+ castles and ruins, perched on hillsides with breathtaking views of the river. It’s also home to Riesling wine, with vineyards stretching along the riverbanks, making it a dream destination for wine lovers.
Much of the Rhine, particularly in the Rheingau and Middle Rhine regions, is steeped in German culture, with wine festivals and medieval traditions celebrated throughout the year. But when you visit cities like Strasbourg, you’ll get a unique blend of both French and German influences, from the local food to the architecture and customs—a perfect fusion of two rich cultures.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites
There are several UNESCO World Heritage sites along the Rhine River, showcasing the region’s rich cultural and historical significance. Notable ones include:
- Upper Middle Rhine Valley – This 65km stretch is famous for its over 40 castles, historic towns, and terraced vineyards.
- Cologne Cathedral – One of the largest and most iconic Gothic cathedrals in the world, located in Cologne, Germany.
- Speyer Cathedral – A stunning Romanesque cathedral in Speyer, Germany, which is one of the largest of its kind in Europe.
Best Dining Spots
With big cities like Cologne, Amsterdam, and Basel, it’s difficult to recommend restaurants since there are so many! I usually ask the locals for recommendations when we go, and I recommend you do too! If you have time in port, these places are worth checking out:
- Haxenhaus (Cologne): A traditional German restaurant along the Rhine, serving hearty dishes like pork knuckle and sausages with local Kölsch beer.
- Zum Grünen Kranz (Rüdesheim): A cozy restaurant offering local Rheingau specialties and wines, with a beautiful terrace for outdoor dining.
- La Cloche à Fromage (Strasbourg): Famous for its selection of French cheeses, this restaurant is a paradise for cheese lovers, paired with excellent local wines.
- Restaurant Schiff (Basel): A fine dining restaurant overlooking the Rhine, offering a mix of Swiss and international cuisine.
Pro Tip: In Cologne, beer is served in small, cylindrical glasses called Kölsch Stangen, which hold just 0.2 liters. Unlike larger beer steins, these smaller glasses ensure the beer stays cold and fresh. Servers will keep bringing you a new Kölsch until you place a coaster on top of your glass to signal you’re done!
Transportation Tips
For a Rhine River cruise, you’ll likely fly into one of several major airports, depending on where your cruise begins. If you’re starting in Amsterdam, you’ll fly into Schiphol Airport (AMS), which is super convenient and well-connected. And if your cruise starts or ends in Basel, Switzerland, you’ll most likely fly into EuroAirport (BSL). Sometimes travelers use Zurich Airport (ZRH) for Basel as well, with a short transfer. All of these airports are easy to navigate and have plenty of transportation options to get you to your cruise.
Best Month to Visit
The best time to cruise the Rhine River is from April to October, when the weather is pleasant and the landscapes are in full bloom. Spring (April-May) brings colorful flowers and blossoming trees, especially in towns like Rüdesheim and Bacharach, making it an ideal time for photography and nature lovers.
Summer (June-August) is the peak tourist season, offering long, sunny days perfect for outdoor activities like wine tastings and castle tours. However, it can also be busy with tourists.
Autumn (September-October) is an excellent time for wine lovers, as the Riesling harvest begins, and wine festivals are held throughout the region. The golden vineyards and cooler weather make it a magical time to explore the Rhine Valley.
Winter offers a different experience, as some Rhine cruises focus on the Christmas markets, especially in cities like Cologne and Strasbourg, where the festive atmosphere is unforgettable.
