Pre-Cruise Rhine River Adventure: Your Ultimate Riverboat Cruise Guide

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Advisor - Nicole Dallape
Curated By

Nicole Dallape

  • Cruises

  • Food & Wine

  • All-Inclusive Travel

  • Couples Travel

  • Family Travel

  • Germany

  • Entertainment

  • Relaxation

  • Sightseeing

A large white riverboat named ‘Viking Alruna’ is docked on a calm body of water with a bridge in the background under an overcast sky.
Curator’s statement

The Rhine Riverboat cruise holds a special place in my heart because of its enchanting blend of history, culture and natural beauty. Gliding past centuries-old castles perched on hilltops feels like stepping into a fairy tale, each with its own story to tell. The Love Lock Bridge in Cologne adds a touch of romance to the journey, symbolizing the enduring bonds between loved ones. Visiting the Lindt Chocolate Factory in Linz is a sweet experience. The smell of chocolate fills the air, and you can enjoy the best treats. The ever-changing scenery along the river, from charming villages to lush vineyards, makes every moment a picturesque adventure.

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Where to stay in Germany

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Things to do in Germany

A castle perched atop a rocky cliff is surrounded by vibrant autumn foliage.

Historic Castles

  • Sail past stunning medieval castles, such as Marksburg and Rheinfels, which dot the riverbanks and offer a glimpse into Europe’s storied past.

  • Experience the breathtaking landscapes of the Rhine Gorge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its steep vineyards, lush forests and charming villages.

  • Explore historic cities like Cologne, with its magnificent Gothic cathedral, and Strasbourg, with its blend of French and German influences and picturesque old town.

Romantic Landmarks

  • Visit the Love Lock Bridge in Cologne, where couples leave padlocks as a symbol of their love, creating a romantic atmosphere along the river.

Lindt Chocolate Factory

  • Enjoy your sweet tooth by visiting the Lindt Chocolate Factory in Linz. You can learn about how chocolate is made and try delicious treats.

Wine Tasting

  • Enjoy the famous wine regions along the Rhine, such as the Rheingau and Mosel, where you can tour vineyards and taste exquisite Rieslings and other local wines.

Convenient Travel

  • Experience the ease of riverboat travel, where you can pack once and have a relaxing trip. Your floating hotel will take you to each place you want to go.

Festive Atmosphere

  • Choose your cruise to go with local festivals, like the Rhine in Flames, where fireworks light up the sky, or the Christmas markets, which offer happy holiday cheer and special gifts.

Day Trips:

  • Heidelberg: Explore the picturesque city of Heidelberg, famous for its romantic castle ruins overlooking the Neckar River. Visit the historic Heidelberg University, stroll along the charming Old Town and enjoy panoramic views from the Philosopher's Walk.

  • Cochem and Reichsburg Castle: Visit the charming town of Cochem, known for its half-timbered houses and scenic vineyards. Tour Reichsburg Castle, perched high above the town, and explore its medieval rooms and gardens. Don't miss sampling local wines in the atmospheric cellars.

  • Rüdesheim and Niederwald Monument: Discover Rüdesheim, a quaint wine town on the Rhine famous for its Drosselgasse, a narrow cobblestone lane lined with wine taverns and shops. Ride the cable car to the Niederwald Monument for amazing views of the Rhine Valley. Then, visit Siegfried's Mechanical Music Cabinet Museum to see old musical instruments that can play themselves.

Places to eat & drink in Germany

A large, golden pine cone sculpture is displayed inside a room with glass walls overlooking a body of water and a boat, with a person in white attire standing beside it.
  • Restaurant Am Holztor (Koblenz): Located in the historic heart of Koblenz, this restaurant offers traditional German cuisine in a cozy, rustic atmosphere. Enjoy hearty dishes like schnitzel and sausages, paired with local wines.

  • Zur Tant (Bacharach): Situated in the charming town of Bacharach, Zur Tant is a family-run restaurant known for its delicious regional dishes and friendly service. Try their homemade soups and freshly baked bread.

  • Gilden im Zims (Cologne): A quintessential Cologne beer hall, Gilden im Zims serves traditional Kölsch beer alongside hearty German fare. The lively atmosphere and historic setting make it a must-visit.

  • Maison Kammerzell (Strasbourg): This historic restaurant, located in a beautiful half-timbered building near Strasbourg Cathedral, offers Alsatian specialties such as choucroute garnie and tarte flambée, along with a fine selection of wines.

  • Brauerei Schumacher (Düsseldorf): One of Düsseldorf’s oldest breweries, Schumacher serves its famous Altbier, brewed on-site. Pair the beer with traditional Rhenish dishes like Düsseldorfer Senfrostbraten (mustard roast beef).

  • Weinhaus Halfenstube (Boppard): Nestled in the heart of the Rhine Valley, this restaurant offers a fine dining experience with an emphasis on local wines and seasonal ingredients. Enjoy a gourmet meal with stunning river views.

  • Restaurant Ratskeller (Mainz): Located in the historic city hall of Mainz, Ratskeller serves delicious German and international cuisine. The restaurant’s vaulted cellar and cozy atmosphere add to the dining experience.

  • Le Dome (Bonn): Situated in the Kameha Grand Bonn hotel, Le Dome offers a modern dining experience with innovative cuisine and a spectacular view of the Rhine. The menu features a blend of international and regional dishes.

Advisor - Nicole Dallape

Travel Advisor

Nicole Dallape

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This guide is a part of our ongoing series Cruises. Looking for more travel inspiration? Check out my guide, Immerse Yourself in the Bliss of Cancun: The Ultimate Mexican Travel Guide.