The importance of the Rhine is evident from the castles, fortresses and cobblestoned villages that line its banks. Flowing through cities such as Basel, Heidelberg, Cologne, Strasbourg, and Amsterdam, a Rhine river cruise takes you from the Swiss Alps through the lush Black Forest to the North Sea; it’s sure to please romantics, history enthusiasts and white wine lovers.

Highlights

Castles

The Rhine has one the highest concentration of castles along a European river. Perched on hilltops are fortresses, castles. and ruins, connecting travellers to the medieval days along the Rhine. In fact, the area in Germany from Rudesheim to Koblenz, the Midel Rhine, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Wine Region of Rheingau

Rheingau is one of thirteen wine regions in Germany with the Riesling varietal dominating at nearly 80 percent and Pinot Noir following with the rest. Wine enthusiasts will appreciate this region as the home to the noble rot, botrytis cinerea. Most vineyards here are on slopes facing south.

Multicultural Strasbourg

This French city located in eastern France is historically German speaking. The entire historic city centre, Grande Île, was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1988. The city houses the world’s fourth-tallest church and four other medieval churches. It’s also home to the largest mosque in France, the Strasbourg Grand Mosque.

Largest Old Town in Europe, Amsterdam

Rich in history, this vibrant city of canals boasts many famous museums housing some of the most famous art in the world, including Van Gogh and Rembrandt. A major attraction is the house where Ann Frank and her family were hiding from the Nazis during World War II, at which time she kept a diary of her experiences.