4 Incredible Countries You’ll Explore on the Rhine River

With their fabulous rooftop pools, jacuzzies, and wellness programs—plus their exquisite cuisine and delicious cocktail drinks available around-the-clock—it’s tempting to many to never leave the ship. But as much as they take pride in their impeccable service, we know that the main reason travelers choose a river cruise is because of the adventure—the amazing, breathtaking stops along the way. With that in mind, the countries you’ll explore with AmaWaterways, Avalon Waterways or even Viking on the Rhine are historic, romantic and truly awe-inspiring.

On a cruise, you can choose from a selection of amazing tours, all of which highlight a unique aspect of Europe. With so many incredible river cruise options throughout Europe, it can be a tough decision…but we know that we’ll find something that fits your budget, taste, and sense of adventure.

Do you want to spend more of your time in Switzerland, Germany or France? What about the Netherlands? Let’s take a closer look at our destinations on the Rhine River and you’ll see why so many travelers opt to explore this river.

Basel, the highest navigable point on the Rhine River

Switzerland

A pristine alpine wonderland, Switzerland is beautiful any time of year. It’s known for its snowy mountain caps in the winter and lush green hills in the summer. Whether you’re taking a scenic train ride through the Alps or traveling the Rhine by ship, Switzerland will have you wondering if you’ve walked straight into a fairytale.

Basel

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

Basel is a fantastic representation of Switzerland as it’s situated right between France and Germany, two countries 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’s so much more of Switzerland to see. I’d recommend tacking on a trip to Lucerne or Zurich.

Lucerne

Lucerne is the ideal pitstop on your trek through Switzerland. Wandering through its majestic streets, you’ll encounter a city dotted with beautiful bridges, cafes and chocolate shops that will satisfy your sweet tooth. A summer evening in Lucerne will make you never want to leave. Let’s book a ride on Lake Lucerne while we’re at it!

Lucerne

Zurich

The banking capital and economic hub of Switzerland, Zurich combines pre-medieval roots with modern-day business and entertainment.

In addition to its world-class shopping venues, there is plenty of sight-seeing to do. At the end of the river embankment along the lakefront, in the summer months, the park here is Zurich's beach. On a hot day, it is a great place to cool off amid the surrounding city and mountains.

From the Hauptbahnhof—Switzerland’s largest railway station—you can catch a train and be on a crisp, glistening mountain peak in a matter of minutes. You can also explore the city’s incredible rivers and magnificent lake, which has superior water quality for swimming. Whether its fine dining or hiking trails up Uetliberg, the perfect adventure is waiting for you in Zurich.

Zurich

FRANCE

Parlez-vous français? Non? Well, no worries. A good translation app can do wonders to help you navigate the luscious countryside of France, and its mouthwatering cafes and menus. France records the most visitors annually for its food, wine, and historic sights, we love this country for all the right reasons.

Wine & Dine

Wine and France go hand-in-hand, and if you haven’t had a bowl of French onion soup, you’re seriously missing out. Whether you’re stopping 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, you will not be disappointed. Strasbourg, France

Book a Rhine River cruise and you’ll stop in Strasbourg, the capital city of the Alsace region and a charming city for a day trip. A recommended experience is to visit the Cave des Hospices for a wine tour and light beverage during the afternoon.

Leisure

If wine tasting isn’t your idea of a relaxing afternoon, there is no shortage of other 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, which many river cruise lines have available onboard for passengers on tour.

Strasbourg, France

Shopping

Are you looking for modern stores, local boutiques or street markets? You can find them all in Strasbourg. Most of Strasbourg’s old town is centered on Grande Île, an island in the middle of the city.

For a completely different experience, book a river cruise during the holiday season! Christmas markets in Strasbourg are so popular you can find them any time of year. The markets here are also frequently rated at or very near the top of most lists of "the best" Christmas Markets, ahead other well known markets in Germany.

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, a glass of vin chaud (mulled wine) to keep you warm is always a favorite way to warm up.

Strasbourg, "Capital de Noel"

GERMANY

Below: Lahnstein, Germany

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

Cruising down the Rhine, you’ll see cultural hubs as well as quaint cities you may not otherwise experience. Rüdesheim and Cologne both offer a variety of entertainment including local musicians and museums, providing for a well-rounded German experience.

Ehrenfels in the heart of the Riesling wine region

The highlight may also be sailing through the Rhine Gorge below any of the 40 castles lining the vertical heights. So historic and iconic is this region, the entirety of it, all 40 miles, is a UNESCO listed site!

Heidelberg, Germany

Rüdesheim

Rüdesheim is a charming little city on the Rhine known for its production of 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.

During the stop in Rüdesheim, you can choose between Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum, a gondola ride or a wine tasting hike through the vineyards.

Our favorite way to spend time here is to take the cable car over the vineyards, up to the Niederwald monument and then stop at the local shops on the way back to the ship.

Rudesheim Streets

Cologne

A 2,000-year-old city, Cologne is best 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, including the massive gothic cathedral on the rivers edge. Visible from the Rhine River, the Cologne Cathedral is a must-see landmark. Its two towers are still some of the largest peaks in the city.

The stop in Cologne offers the options of a Holy City walking tour and cathedral visit, Kölsch Beer tasting or Cologne bike tour. Cologne Cathedral and Hohenzollern Bridge on the Rhine

HOLLAND

Above: Amsterdam and the iconic gables, bridges and canals.

What better way to end the Enchanting Cruise than right in the heart of the Netherlands- Amsterdam.

A city known for its red-light district and overall carefree way of life, 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 opt for a tour through 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.

The People

The people in the Netherlands are truly some of the kindest and friendly people in Europe. Described as modest, direct and very prompt, don’t be surprised by how welcomed you feel in this city.

The Food

One of the most pleasant surprises of a trip Amsterdam is the food. If you’re craving something with a pinch of salt, we would recommend Bitterballen (deep-fried meatballs), kibbeling (deep-fried fish) or snert (split pea soup).

After dinner, enjoy a variety of different sweets including Dutch licorice, poffertjes (puffy pancakes) or stroopwafels (remember to eat them hot and gooey).

The Creativity

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

No Place Like It In Spring!

There are several different options for you or your gardener friends to experience in the Dutch spring in all of its colorful splendor! Tulip time cruises traverse the Rhine River delta and the many canals at this wonderful time of the year to visit. These cruises are popular and sell out well in advance, so booking now is essential for spring of 2023. This colorful patchwork.

Spring in Holland is a spectacular time to visit the country on a "Tulip Time" Rhine River cruise.

These are just a few of the amazing destinations on a Rhine River cruise. As a certified Travel Advisor with both Avalon Waterways and Ama Waterways, I'll help match you with the perfect itinerary and unique experiences in Europe on on one of the many rivers around the world in which they sail!

Which country is calling your name? Let's set up a call today to talk about all the options available!