Four Incredible Countries You’ll Explore on a Rhine River Cruise

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With so many incredible river cruise options throughout Europe, choosing one can be a tough decision. As river cruise specialists, we help you find one that fits your particular travel style, taste, and sense of adventure.

Do you want to spend time in Switzerland, Germany, France, or the Netherlands? Let's take a closer look at destinations on the Rhine River, and you'll see why our clients keep returning for more.

Switzerland

A pristine alpine wonderland, Switzerland is beautiful any time of year.

It is known for its snowy mountain caps in the winter and lush green hills in the summer. Whether you take a scenic train ride through the Alps or travel along the Rhine River, Switzerland will have you wondering if you walked straight into a fairytale.

Basel

Many river cruises on the Rhine River start or end in Basel, a city known for its love of art and museums. It has the highest concentration of museums in the country and is centered around a market square, making it easy to tour.

Basel is a fantastic representation of Switzerland as it is between France and Germany, both of which have significantly influenced Swiss culture. Enjoy this melding of cultures as you dine alfresco at a cafe along the banks of the Rhine.

But why stop with Basel when there is so much more of Switzerland to see? We recommend including a trip to Lucerne or Zurich.

Lucerne

Lucerne is the ideal place to visit on your travels through Switzerland. Wandering through its majestic streets, you will encounter a city dotted with beautiful bridges, cafes, and chocolate shops that will satisfy your sweet tooth. Enjoy a cruise on Lake Lucerne. A summer evening in Lucerne will make you never want to leave. Zurich

Zurich is Switzerland's banking capital and economic hub. It combines pre-medieval roots with modern-day business and entertainment. In addition to its world-class shopping venues, there is plenty of sightseeing to do.

From the Hauptbahnhof, Switzerland's largest railway station, you can catch a train and be on a crisp, glistening mountain peak in minutes. You can also explore the city's incredible rivers and magnificent lake. Whether fine dining or hiking trails up Uetliberg, the perfect adventure awaits you in Zurich.

France

We love this country for its food, wine, and historic sights. While on a Rhine River cruise, you will stop in Strasbourg, the capital city of the Alsace region and a charming city.

Wine and France go hand in hand, and if you haven't had a bowl of French onion soup, you're seriously missing out. You will not be disappointed if you stop at a bakery in the morning for a fresh croissant and cafe au lait, a light lunch of a croque monsieur, or a full 3-course French dinner.

If wine tasting isn't your idea of a relaxing afternoon, there is no shortage of soothing activities in Strasbourg. The Parc de l'Orangerie, Parc de la Citadelle, and the botanical gardens are all equally serene places for an afternoon walk or bike ride.

If you enjoy shopping, Strasbourg offers modern stores, local boutiques, and street markets too.

Christmas markets in Strasbourg are so popular you can find them any time of year. Make your way to the southwest corner of the Grande Île to Un Noël en Alsace to browse Christmas decor. And if you happen to be in Strasbourg during the holiday season, we recommend a glass of mulled wine to keep you warm along the way.

Germany

Traveling to Germany usually takes tourists to Berlin, Munich, and other metropolitan areas. On a river cruise, however, you'll experience a whole new side of the country—one that is more traditional.

Cruising down the Rhine River, you'll see quaint cities and cultural hubs you may not otherwise experience. Rüdesheim and Cologne offer a variety of entertainment, including local musicians and museums, that provide a well-rounded German experience.

Rüdesheim

Rüdesheim is a charming little city on the Rhine known for producing Reisling wine. The first thing you'll notice here is the beautiful combination of history and modern winemaking. Cobblestone streets and medieval-style castles lie just outside the vineyards and tasting rooms of Rüdesheim.

While in Rüdesheim, consider visiting the Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum, enjoying a gondola ride, or going on a wine-tasting hike through the vineyards.

A favorite way to spend time in Rüdesheim is to take the cable car over the vineyards, up to the Niederwald monument, and then stop at the local shops.

Cologne

A 2,000-year-old city, Cologne is well known for its colorful rows of houses and its famous Christmas markets. In contrast to the small-town charm of Rüdesheim, Cologne is a much larger city and cultural hub of this area of Germany.

Where Rüdesheim is medieval and rustic, Cologne is more Gothic and modern. Visible from the Rhine River, the Cologne Cathedral is a must-see landmark. Its two towers are still some of the city's highest peaks. Kölsch beer tasting is also popular in Cologne.

The Netherlands

Amsterdam offers an incredible array of cultural experiences. Cruising one of the world's most elaborate canal systems will show you much of the beauty this city has to offer.

If you prefer to observe the canals by land, you can visit the bohemian neighborhood of Jordaan, which boasts trendy cafes, eateries, and shops. After grabbing a coffee, head to one of the many historical landmarks in this part of town. The Anne Frank House is located just outside Jordaan and across from the historical Westerkerk Cathedral, where Rembrandt was buried in 1669.

Enjoy a variety of sweets, including poffertjes (puffy pancakes), Dutch licorice, and stroopwafels. Remember to eat them hot and gooey.

You will also find more peculiar shops and art displays in Amsterdam than anywhere else. From mouse mansions to stores with cows on the ceiling and displays dedicated entirely to tulips, entertainment in Amsterdam lies around every corner.

These are just a few of the amazing destinations on a Rhine River cruise. Call today to talk about all the options available!