The Rhine River rises in the Swiss Alps before going on a mammoth journey of over seven hundred and fifty miles and then emptying out into the North Sea. Whilst it is known in English and French as the Rhine, during its time in Germany it’s referred as the Rhein and even takes on the moniker Rijn whilst travelling through The Netherlands.

Needless to say that sailing this remarkable river brings about many highlights and thus there are plenty of reasons to take a closer look at our Rhine river cruises. Here are just a few things you could soon be looking forward to.

Multiple Destinations In No Less Than Four Countries

Some people believe that the only thing you get a good view of during a cruise is the inside of the ship. However, whilst the ships are usually things of beauty in their own right, there is no doubting that a Rhine river cruise will provide you with plenty to look at besides.

Along the way, you will visit ports in Austria, Switzerland, Germany and The Netherlands with a different stopping point practically every day. AmaWaterways’ ‘Enchanting Rhine’ itinerary includes days in Amsterdam, Cologne, Rudesheim, Speyer, Strasbourg, Breisach and Basel.

Captivating Castles

The section of the river between Rudesheim and Koblenz, also known as the Middle Rhine, is a designated UNESCO World Heritage area and once you enter this part of the waterway you will instantly see why. Nostalgic-looking castles line the banks on both sides as fortresses and palaces also add to the spectacle.

Among the most impressive is Marksburg Castle, the only hilltop example to remain intact on this stretch of the river. Equally intriguing is Loreley (Lorelei) Rock, a steep cliff face from which a beautiful maiden is said to have lured ships to their demise on the rocks below. Cruise lines such as AmaWaterways and Uniworld even had entire Rhine cruises which are dedicated to the many castles that can be found here, offering guided tours of some of them.

A Tasty Tipple

Something else that is in plentiful supply along the river is wine. Vineyards line the slopes along large stretches and many of the different towns have their own vintage for you to try. Wine tastings are often organised as part of your trip and with it being a river cruise these are generally included in the price.

AmaWaterways’ ‘Vineyards of the Rhine and Mosel’ will offer the chance to sample some of the local grapes in Rudesheim and Bernkastel, whilst Avalon also offers a similar voyage.

Monumental Offerings

As you stop off at some of the largest towns and cities that are dotted along the Rhine’s banks there will be plenty of interesting monuments to explore, and you won’t even have to travel far to enjoy them. Cologne’s stunning Gothic cathedral is mere metres from the edge of the water and the iconic Niederwalddenkmal Statue is just an exciting cable car journey from your docking point in Rudesheim.

Music To Your Ears

As well as the wine themed cruises that sail on this river, there are also some itineraries that have a more tuneful focus. Not only will these trips include onboard performances from classical musicians, you will also be able to enjoy shore excursions such as a visit to Beethoven’s birthplace in Bonn and an organ concert in Strasbourg’s St Thomas Church.

If a Rhine river cruise sounds like something that you would enjoy, then we have plenty for you to choose from. Give Fred. a call and our knowledgeable team can find the perfect itinerary that suits you and your interests.