Rhine River
The legendary "Father Rhine," as Germans call their country's longest river, flows past terraced vineyards, romantic castles, and ancient cities. A classic eight-day Rhine cruise takes you from Basel, Switzerland through Alsace, France and into Germany before traversing the Netherlands up to Amsterdam. Itinerary variations include combinations with other rivers such as the Main and the Danube.
The cruise season runs from March through December. There's a risk of high water in springtime and low water in the fall, though river levels can vary year to year.
What We Love
Wine and Food: Snack on German sausages or sample French Alsatian dishes like “choucroute garnie,” a huge platter of meats, sauerkraut, and potatoes. Wash it down with a Spätburgunder (Pinot Noir) or a crisp Riesling.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites: Cologne Cathedral, Strasbourg's historic center, Speyer Cathedral, the windmills of Kinderdijk, and Amsterdam's canal ring will thrill culture vultures.
Best Known For
The Romantic Rhine Valley: The gorgeous stretch between Rüdesheim and Koblenz offer a UNESCO-designated parade of castles, small towns, and picture-perfect vineyards lining steep hillsides.
Christmas Markets: Special cruises visit holiday markets filled with crafts, food, and wine. We especially like those in Cologne, Rüdesheim, and Strasbourg.