Table Of Content
The river cruise operator also offers a series of “discovery” excursions, hands-on, interactive experiences that often focus on culture and cuisine. Nevertheless, river cruise companies have seen a major rebound in demand since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, and Rhine river cruises are still among the most popular sailing itineraries in Europe. Here, we present seven of the best Rhine River cruises (in no particular order) for every type of experience, whether it’s food, family adventure, wine—or something else—that floats your (river)boat. Viking's eight-day Christmas on the Rhine cruise between Amsterdam and Basel includes time in Cologne which has seven Christmas markets. A giant twinkling Christmas tree forms the centrepiece of the most famous one held in front of the city’s landmark cathedral.
Embrace and celebrate European flair
The shoulder seasons (spring and fall) are the best times to cruise on the Rhine River as the weather is milder, crowds are less likely and prices are typically lower. Emerald Cruises is a great option for cruisers in their earlier adult decades. The lower-priced offshoot of Australian-owned all-inclusive line Scenic has contemporary ships that tend to attract a slightly younger crowd -- with good reason. While Uniworld brings luxurious touches to a romantic cruise, those who want to spoil themselves no matter the reason would do well to check out Tauck's Rhine River cruises. Out of the 67 cabins on its 130-passenger vessels, 22 are suites -- the highest ratio on any European riverboat of the same size.
Remarkable Rhine & Historic Holland (
Stroll through Cologne’s Old Town and see the city’s famed Gothic cathedral, a UNESCO Site. Explore this time-honored city, from its Mainz Cathedral to the Gutenberg Museum of printing. Explore one of the many world-class museums in this historic cultural capital of Switzerland.
The right excursions to go with your river cruise
The Rhine starts its journey in Switzerland's Alps and passes through iconic cities in France (including Strasbourg), Germany (Dusseldorf and Cologne) and the Netherlands. A European river cruise along the Rhine will reveal the best of Western Europe, from its unique scenery, to the exquisite cuisine on offer. Avalon Waterways was one of the first lines to recognize that not all river cruise passengers want to do the same thing.
Cruise Critic's Ultimate Rhine River Guide: Experience the Famed Waterway, from the Alps to Amsterdam
Additionally, Riviera offers a number of solo-traveler-only itineraries on the Rhine where there is no single supplement on any cabin, including suites. New itineraries for 2024 include an extended 10-night Cologne, the Rhine Gorge & Medieval Germany River Cruise from Cologne to Nuremberg. Viking River's shore tours are graded as easy, moderate or demanding so travelers can gauge their ability to partake. But it's Tauck's fully-inclusive rates that really help make this line a great choice for luxury seekers.
River cruises in other countries
Smaller markets along the way include Rudesheim, where you can stroll down the colorful Drosselgasse street and try the town's warming coffee laced with local brandy. "Having traveled on seven Viking longships that are virtually indistinguishable from one another, I believe it's the consistency that makes Viking one of our favorite ways to travel," said one reader. The longships are light-filled floating boutique hotels with a Scandinavian-design aesthetic, indoor and outdoor dining, and herb gardens up on top. Viking's carefully crafted itineraries and "good value" also received praise from readers. "Met wonderful new friends. Absolutely outstanding service and terrific food," said one fan. It developed from a Roman military camp and is one of the oldest cities in Germany.
This postcard-perfect town is topped by a medieval castle where you can see a giant suit of armor, and the old town is filled with traditional half-timbered black and white houses. Many springtime Rhine sailings around Amsterdam feature bulb sailings past acres of tulips that only enhance the beauty of this destination. The spring and fall months are the best times to cruise on the Rhine River as the weather is milder, crowds are less likely to be present and prices are typically lower.
Starting in the Alps and meandering 820 miles through Switzerland, France, Germany and Holland, Viking's extensive offerings of Rhine cruises take in every aspect of this beautiful waterway. There are week-long sailings -- ideal for first-time visitors -- through longer itineraries which are ideal for seasoned Rhine cruisers looking to discover more. Viking Longships have prime mooring spots in the center of town providing the option for easy independent exploration in between guided included and optional shore excursions. For something very different, Viking has a unique 15-day itinerary combining a Rhine River cruise with a Scandinavian sailing into the Norwegian fjords on one of its stylish ocean ships. Every year for our World's Best Awards survey, T+L asks readers to weigh in on travel experiences around the globe — to share their opinions on the top hotels, resorts, cities, islands, cruise ships, spas, airlines, and more. Readers rated individual cruise ships on their cabins and facilities, food, service, itineraries and destinations, excursions and activities, and value.
A comfortable motor coach transfer will take you to and from your Viking ship. Whether you are looking for a Rhine cruise at the weekend or a Rhine cruise lasting several days - at VIVA Cruises you are sure to find a river cruise on the Rhine with a duration to suit you. With Tauck, you'll visit this imposing cathedral, along with the nearby Roman Germanic Museum, housing extraordinary exhibits of archaelogical finds from the Köln region.
11 of the best Rhine river cruises - The Times
11 of the best Rhine river cruises.
Posted: Mon, 08 Apr 2024 07:00:00 GMT [source]
Sailing between Amsterdam and Basel, the ship stops in France (at Strasbourg) and Germany (at Mannheim, Rüdesheim, and Cologne) en route. Note that itineraries are suggested for kids ages eight and up, and a minimum age of four years old applies. One of the smaller Rhine River cruise destinations is the delightful German wine-making town of Rudesheim. You can walk or take a land train to bustling Drosselgasse street where cozy bars serve local riesling and Rudesheimer coffee made with cream and brandy. One of the more unusual local Rudesheim attractions is Siegfried's Mechanical Music Cabinet Museum, where exhibits range from tiny music boxes to fairground organs. Wrap up your day with a scenic cable car ride above the vineyards to the impressive Niederwald monument overlooking the Rhine.
Party people will find their happiness in the nightlife and red light district De Wallen. More days means more to discover, with extension packages you can add before or after your Viking cruise or cruisetour. Enjoy additional days to explore your embarkation or disembarkation city, or see a new destination altogether with a choice of exciting cities.Pre & Post Cruise Extensions vary by itinerary and are subject to change.
Riviera River Cruises Waives Single Supplement on Select Departures - Travel Agent Central
Riviera River Cruises Waives Single Supplement on Select Departures.
Posted: Mon, 08 Apr 2024 07:00:00 GMT [source]
Visitors are best advised to stroll along the main shopping street, called “Planken”, because wooden planks were once laid out there to get across the square on dry feet. The old town hall is a gem, and the largest synagogue in Germany is also worth seeing. The Jewish community was an integral part of Mannheim’s population from 1660 onwards.
Together, we crafted a river cruise experience that was ahead of its time and inspired by the destinations we explore. The Rhine is not only the longest river in Germany, it is also undoubtedly the most diverse. On a river cruise on the Rhine and its tributaries, you will experience an incomparable range of cities and landscapes that no other river can offer you. From the modern metropolises of Düsseldorf, Frankfurt and Rotterdam to the historic cities of Basel, Speyer and Strasbourg. From luxurious shopping boulevards in the big cities to winding alleys in the small towns along the river.
