River Rhine 3 and 4 night short break cruises

R128: A Taste of the Rhine
3/4 Nights

Places Visited

Basel Located along the Rhine River, Basel sits at the point where French, German and Swiss borders meet, marking the gateway to the Swiss Rhineland. Basel’s cobblestone streets, 18th century buildings and three surviving medieval gates reflect the city’s rich past. A cultural centre, Basel is also home to many museums including the Museum of Fine Arts with masterpieces by Picasso and Dali.	Basel's Town Hall is Enchanting
Cologne An intriguing mix of old and new, Cologne reveals its Roman heritage in the city layout and ancient ruins that lie scattered through the town. Cologne’s modern plazas and Hohe-Strasse, a pedestrian-only shopping zone, provide a variety of stores, lively bars and enticing restaurants. Of particular note is the city’s 14th century Cathedral, a stunning example of Gothic artistry. Spared Allied bombs during World War II, the Cathedral’s lacy spires are visible for miles, and its stained-glass windows fill the interior with brilliant coloured light.
Koblenz Set at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers, Koblenz is filled with traditional German charm. Founded more than 2,000 years ago, it has grown to become the business and cultural centre of the Middle Rhine Region. Its cobblestone streets, ancient market square and medieval churches remind tourists of yesteryear, although reconstruction has given the city a spacious, modern appearance. Highlights include the Residenz Schloss, one of Germany’s best examples of neoclassic architecture, and Ehrenbreitstein, Europe’s oldest fortress.	Kaiser Wilhelm Monument, Koblenz
Mainz Located in the heart of the Rhine wine region, Mainz has played many historic roles. Due to its favourable location on the mouth of the Main River near the Nahe River, Mainz gained economic and political strength. Under Roman rule it served as a key northern defence, and during the Middle Ages, it was a major trade center. Later, Mainz was home to Johannes Guttenberg, father of the printing press. Learn more about this invention with a visit to the World Museum of Printing or enjoy the Roman-German Museum. Visitors may wish to walk through St. Stephen’s Cathedral to see Chagall’s world-famous stained-glass windows.
Speyer The quiet German town of Speyer lies on the west bank of the Rhine. The city features a Romanesque cathedral, burial place of eight emperors including some of the most famous Holy Roman Emperors. Speyer was once a major Celtic centre that traded hands several times between the Romans and the Huns. Six majestic towers still dominate the city’s skyline.	Speyer is Known For its Charm
Strasbourg The multi-cultural city of Strasbourg exhibits both French and German influences due to its location along the Rhine River at the border of both countries. The old streets of “Petit France,” with wooden houses and picturesque canals, seem to make time stand still. The carefully restored Cathedral of Notre Dame contains a combination of architectural styles and is most recognized for its 465-foot-tall graceful spires. Another landmark is the 18th century Château des Rohan, which houses three of the city’s major museums.