Rhine River Landmarks

A voyage along the Rhine River has attracted travelers and artists for centuries. In the 19th and early 20th centuries, a trip down the Rhine was considered a mandatory part of the European grand tour, and the castle-rich hilltops and colorful legends along Germany’s scenic Rhine Gorge inspired poetry by Heinrich Heine and opera by Richard Wagner.

The 700-mile-long river, which flows from Switzerland to the North Sea via France, Germany, and the Netherlands, has also been a key means of transport and trade through Western Europe. 

From historical narratives to breathtaking scenery and delectable wines, a Rhine River tour promises an enriching and unforgettable adventure for travelers seeking a unique blend of heritage and nature.

A Rhine River tour is your chance to delve into a journey rich in European history and natural splendor. The Rhine River has many names — Rhein, Rhin, and Rijn — reflecting the cultural diversity of the peoples along its banks.

This river has been a crucial artery for trade and cultural exchange for centuries, leading to the growth of historic cities and the construction of magnificent castles. By joining a Rhine River tour, you can trace the footsteps of Roman soldiers, medieval knights, and Renaissance merchants, immersing yourself in landscapes and architecture that tell the story of Europe's past.

With stunning vistas, charming villages, and legendary castles, the Rhine Valley offers unparalleled beauty. Moreover, you can indulge in wine-tasting experiences amidst world-renowned vineyards that produce some of the finest Rieslings and other wines. 

Most Rhine cruising itineraries travel between Basel, Switzerland, and Amsterdam, the Netherlands; you can travel in either direction. 

The standard length is about a week, but you can easily extend it to 12 or more by combining the Rhine with the Moselle River, which branches off the Rhine at the German city of Koblenz and leads toward Luxembourg, or the Danube, which is connected to the Rhine by the Main Canal and leads to Budapest, Hungary, and beyond — a two- or three-week supercruise. 

If you’re pressed for time, some shorter, five-day cruises are also available from Basel, stopping at Dusseldorf in Germany rather than continuing to Amsterdam.

Today, the Rhine ranks with the Danube among the most popular European cruising rivers. Its Rhine Gorge segment, which courses about 40 miles through steep hillsides dotted with more than 40 castles and fortresses, is one of the highlights of world river cruising and has been named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Small fairytale towns and villages line its banks, vineyards cling to terraced slopes, and large, intriguing cities await exploration.

The Upper Middle Rhine Valley, stretching from Bingen to Koblenz, is another UNESCO World Heritage Site and a highlight of Rhine River tours. 

This 65-kilometer stretch features dramatic landscapes with steep, vineyard-covered hills and numerous medieval castles. Iconic sites include the Lorelei Rock, a steep slate rock towering above the narrowest part of the river, and the Marksburg Castle, the only medieval castle on the Rhine that has never been destroyed. 

The towns of Boppard, with its Roman history, and St. Goar, known for the Rheinfels Castle ruins, are must-visit stops.

Rhine River Tours are renowned for their captivating stops, each offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. From medieval castles and charming towns to vibrant cities and scenic landscapes, these major stops provide enriching experiences that make a Rhine River journey unforgettable. Explore the highlights of each destination along this iconic river.

Cologne is one of Germany’s oldest cities and a major cultural center on the Rhine. It is famed for its impressive Gothic Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that towers over the city's skyline. 

Explore the charming Old Town with its narrow streets and historical buildings, visit numerous museums, such as the Roman-Germanic Museum, and enjoy the vibrant local culture. Cologne is also known for its Kölsch beer, which can be enjoyed in traditional beer halls.

Rüdesheim is a picturesque town known for its wine-making and half-timbered houses. It’s home to the Drosselgasse, a narrow street lined with wine taverns and restaurants. 

Take a cable car ride over the vineyards to the Niederwald Monument, which offers panoramic views of the Rhine Valley. Wine enthusiasts will appreciate visiting the local wine museums and vineyards to taste the renowned Riesling wines.

Strasbourg, located on the French-German border, combines the best of both cultures. Its historic center, the Grande Île, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city boasts the stunning Strasbourg Cathedral, with its intricate façade and astronomical clock. 

The charming Petite France district, with its canals and half-timbered houses, is perfect for leisurely strolls. Strasbourg is also known for its vibrant markets, Alsatian cuisine, and cultural institutions like the European Parliament.

Heidelberg is a romantic city famous for its well-preserved medieval architecture and a prestigious university, Germany’s oldest. 

The city’s highlight is the Heidelberg Castle, perched on a hill overlooking the town and the Neckar River. The castle ruins, with their Renaissance architecture, and the beautiful gardens offer breathtaking views. 

The Old Bridge, the Philosopher’s Walk, and the lively university town atmosphere make Heidelberg a captivating stop on any Rhine River tour.

Mainz is the capital of the Rhineland-Palatinate state and is known for its rich history and cultural heritage. The city is home to the Gutenberg Museum, which is dedicated to Johannes Gutenberg, the inventor of the printing press. Mainz Cathedral, with its Romanesque architecture, dominates the skyline. 

Vibrant market squares, half-timbered houses, and lively festivals, especially the annual Mainz Carnival, provide a glimpse into the local traditions and culture.

Koblenz is located at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers, making it a strategic and scenic spot. It’s home to the Deutsches Eck (German Corner), where the two rivers meet, marked by a giant equestrian statue of Emperor William I. 

The Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, accessible by a cable car crossing the Rhine, offers stunning views and a peek into the region’s military history. Koblenz's old town, with its historic buildings and cozy cafes, is perfect for exploration.

Located at the border of Switzerland, France, and Germany, Basel is a cultural hub with a rich history. The city’s medieval old town features the Basel Minster, a stunning Gothic cathedral with twin towers and a vibrant red sandstone façade. 

Basel is known for its numerous museums, including the Kunstmuseum, which houses an impressive fine art collection. The city’s vibrant markets, the picturesque Rhine promenade, and the annual Art Basel fair make it a dynamic and culturally enriching stop.

A standard Rhine River cruise route will include the German cities of Cologne, whose landmark is its Gothic twin-towered Dom Cathedral; Koblenz, the site of the huge Ehrenbreitstein Castle; and Heidelberg, which houses the country’s oldest university and memorable Romanesque architecture.

The town of Breisach, the gateway to Germany’s lovely Black Forest; the towns of Rudesheim and Kayserberg, among others, offering tastes of the wine country; and Strasbourg, France, with its canals, cathedral, and Alsatian choucrout (a hearty dish bearing both French and German influences) all help make Rhine port excursions some of the finest in Europe.

Not surprisingly, almost every major European river cruise line operates on the Rhine, so it’s essential to compare and contrast not just itineraries but prices (don’t forget to check what’s included!), ship size, cabin sizes, amenities, and languages spoken aboard, among other things.

With Travelstride, you can make sense of it all — use its numerous filters to find the cruise that’s just right for you and book your Rhine vacation with confidence. 

Often, you’ll find Rhine River cruise itineraries also include the Moselle River. The Moselle joins the Rhine at Koblenz and provides a highly picturesque journey. Wine lovers will note the pristine German rieslings from the regions the Moselle flows through.

From the Rhine, you will branch off to the left to travel through the French region of Lorraine, famous for being the home of Joan of Arc. With ancient castles and ruins dotting the hillsides, the Moselle also provides the perfect journey for history lovers.

If you’re looking for a cruise that touches on a greater variety of European sights and cultural activities, you might consider a cruise that includes both the Rhine and the Rhone rivers.

Wine regions are a consistent theme for these rivers, especially if you want to taste some classic French varietals from Burgundy. 

If you choose a Rhine cruise that includes the Rhone, pay special attention to the land portions on the itinerary. Some may include longer stays or extensions in major cities like Amsterdam or Paris.

Find more helpful tips in our blog, Top Ten Tips for Choosing a European Cruise Line

A Rhine River tour offers diverse activities that cater to different interests, from exploring historic castles and charming towns to indulging in wine tasting and enjoying scenic excursions. Here are some must-do activities to make the most of your Rhine River journey.