Where to Visit Whilst River Cruising the Rhine?

Starting in the Swiss Alps, flowing through Germany and into the Netherlands, the Rhine River passes through some of Europe's most beautiful places. River cruising the Rhine will take you through picturesque medieval towns, majestic hillside castles, and lush vineyards.

Here are the best places to visit whilst cruising the Rhine River:

1. Basel

Most of the river cruises on the Rhine will start in Basel. In fact, the defining landmark of the city is very much the Rhine River. A charming city in northwest Switzerland, close to Germany and France, Basel is rich in cultural attractions, giving visitors plenty to explore.

Explore the medieval old town around Marktplatz, dominated by a 16th Century Town Hall. From Marktplatz, head west towards Spalenberg and into the narrow side streets of Leonhardsberg and Spalenberg. Make the most of your river cruise by booking one of the luxurious river cruises along the Rhine towards Amsterdam.

2. Strasbourg

With its magnificent cathedrals, elegant Louis XV buildings, and colourful burghers' houses, Strasbourg exudes a distinctive old-world charm, luring visitors to visit and explore. The imposing Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Strasbourg is worth checking out, and so is Maison Kammerzell, one of the finest burgher's houses in the city. Spend some time at Strasbourg’s UNESCO-listed historic centre, also known as "La Petite France". Stroll through its maze of narrow streets lined with charming half-timbered houses.

3. Koblenz

Koblenz is the crossing point between the Mosel and Rhine River, so it's one of the most popular stopping points for river cruises along the Rhine. This vibrant German city straddles the banks of these rivers, making it an important defence and economic centre for many centuries.

On your visit to Koblenz, make your way to the Fortress of Ehrenbreitstein, which you'll find on the eastern section of the Rhine. Aside from exploring the fort's old battlements and checking out its exhibits, you will also find several museums here, such as the State Museum of Koblenz, which houses interesting archaeological and historical items.

4. Cologne

Cologne is renowned for its gorgeous Romanesque churches. The most popular is the magnificent Cologne Cathedral, which lies along the Rhine. A World Heritage Site, the cathedral is one of Cologne's most recognisable landmarks. Get inside to explore its intricate stained-glass windows and stunning arched ceilings, giving the cathedral a cosy atmosphere.

Stroll through the historic Old Town of Cologne, home to numerous historic churches and excellent museums. Aside from the old churches, you'll also find traditional old houses, with most of them converted into art galleries, shops, and cafes.

5. Amsterdam

When you get to Amsterdam, which is usually the final stop of your Rhine River Cruise, make sure you visit the spectacular Keukenhof Gardens. Also called the "Garden of Europe", the garden looks even more beautiful in spring, when millions of tulips of different colours begin sprouting from the ground. Aside from tulips, you will also find hyacinths and orchids of every possible colour.