Rhine River Cruises
Immerse yourself in the timeless allure of one of Europe’s most celebrated rivers aboard a Rhine River cruise. Offering an unparalleled way to explore this mighty river, whether you seek to learn about the Rhine’s rich heritage, feel a sense of adventure, or simply experience the finer things in life, our luxury Rhine river cruises offer a heady mix of all of this and more.
Onboard cruises on the Rhine, you can expect to glide along this magnificent waterway on world-class vessels, designed for the discerning traveller, as you’re transported through spectacular landscapes and centuries of history. Sail from the clear lakes and towering mountains of Switzerland to the fairytale castles and terraced vineyards of the Rhine Valley. Journey from Amsterdam to Basel through the scenic Middle Rhine and past the famous Lorelei Rock, and moor in the heart of picturesque riverside towns like lively Rudesheim, and visit historic cities such as Cologne and Strasbourg.
With our Rhine River holidays, you’ll wake each morning in the heart of one of Europe’s most captivating destinations and its many enchanting settlements, each unique in its own way. Expect to have all of the most highly coveted experiences that the Rhine River’s destinations have to offer, including ones off the tourist-trodden trail, thanks to excursions accompanied by expert local guides. And of course, expect world-renowned service and facilities onboard luxury Rhine River cruises so memorable you won’t want to leave.
Explore our Rhine River cruises today, from luxurious escapes to more leisurely explorations, for a holiday filled with unforgettable moments.
Rhine River Cruises 2025/2026
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Basel, Breisach, Strasbourg, Speyer, Rüdesheim, Koblenz, Cologne, Amsterdam
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UK - Amsterdam (Holland), Amsterdam - Utrecht (Netherlands), Cologne (Germany), Cochem , Koblenz - Rudesheim , Mannheim - Speyer, Strasbourg (France), Basel (Switzerlan
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Basel (Switzerland) , Breisach (Germany) , Strasbourg (France) , Ludwigshafen (Germany) - Rudesheim , Rudesheim - Rhine Gorge - Lahnstein , Cologne , Amsterdam (The Net
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Amsterdam, Cologne , Koblenz, Ludwigshafen – Heidelberg, Kehl – Strasbourg, Breisach - Freiburg , Basel
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Frankfurt – Mainz, Rüdesheim, Koblenz, Ludwigshafen – Heidelberg, Rastatt – Baden-Baden, Kehl – Strasbourg, Breisach – Colmar, Basel
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UK - Cologne (Germany), Cochem, Trier - Bernkastel, Koblenz – Boppard, Rudesheim, Cologne, Cologne - UK
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Amsterdam (Holland), Cologne (Germany), Lahnstein, Cochem, Trier, Bernkastel, Rudesheim, Ludwigshafen, Strasbourg (France), Breisach (Germany), Basel (Switzerland)
Special OfferExclusive special early booking discounts on 2025 cruises - call us for details!
UK - Cologne (Germany), Koblenz - Boppard, Rhine Gorge - Mainz, Heidelberg, Strasbourg (France) - Colmar, Rudesheim (Germany), Cologne, Cologne - UK
Budapest (Hungary), Vienna (Austria), Durnstein – Melk, Passau (Germany), Regensburg , Nuremberg, Bamberg, Wurzburg, Miltenberg, Rudesheim, Cologne - Bruhl, Amsterdam (
UK - Amsterdam (Holland), Andernach - Koblenz, Rudesheim, Miltenberg, Wurzburg , Bamberg, Nuremberg, Regensburg, Passau - Linz (Austria), Melk - Durnstein, Vienna, Buda
UK to Munich - Nuremberg, Bamberg, Wurzburg , Miltenberg , Rudesheim - Rhine Gorge, Cologne, Amsterdam, Amsterdam - UK
UK - Amsterdam (Netherlands) , Kinderdijk , Cologne (Germany) , Koblenz - Rudesheim , Speyer , Strasbourg (France) , Breisach (Germany) , Basel (Switzerland) - UK
About Rhine River Cruises
Why You Should Sail on Rhine River Cruises
The beauty of cruises on the Rhine River is that they seamlessly blend luxury with discovery, offering an entirely new perspective and way of experiencing Europe’s most fascinating settlements and scenery.
Unlike ocean cruises, Rhine River cruises can transport you right into the heart of historic cities, medieval towns, and beautiful landscapes, without having to unpack your bag or even leave your vessel! Your floating hotel offers the most convenient and immersive way to connect with Europe’s rich heritage and culture, all while you can indulge in exceptional cuisine, exciting activities, and thoughtful amenities.
The Rhine River, in particular, has developed its reputation over decades as a premier river cruise destination, with its compact journey offering an unparalleled concentration of cultural and natural wonders. From the UNESCO-protected Rhine Valley to vistas of tulip-filled fields in the Netherlands, all in one seamless route.
Geography and Route
Extending from its source in the Swiss Alps to the North Sea through the heart of Western Europe, the 766-mile-long Rhine River is a vast waterway that transports cruisers through entire cultures and historical landscapes across six beautiful countries. Cruises down the Rhine typically explore these destinations:
- Switzerland: Rhine River cruises often commence in either Basel or Zurich, where the waterway flows through dramatic Alpine scenery and beside glistening lakes.
- France: The Rhine forms a natural border between France and Germany, with the charming Alsace Region being the star of the show during cruises on the Rhine.
- Netherlands: The tulip-filled fields in the Dutch lowlands are a beautiful sight to be seen during Rhine River cruises journeying through the Netherlands, where the Rhine splits into its delta.
- Germany: The Rhine River extends on its longest stretch through Germany, winding through its Black Forest Region and past a spectacular array of castles, cathedrals, and fortresses in cities like Cologne.
History and Cultural Significance
A brief history of the River Rhine is that for over two millennia, it has been Europe’s most critical route of transportation and its cultural corridor. Beginning with the Romans building vibrant centres across its banks, which have now flourished into the thriving cities we see today. So, it’s no wonder Rhine River cruises are as popular as they are, as there’s no better gateway to explore the continent’s spectacular settlements.
The Rhine River has also played a significant role in shaping artistic and literary traditions. Its inspiring landscapes gave rise to the German Romantic movement, with composers and poets alike immortalising its beauty. And acting as a natural border between nations, the Rhine has become a fascinating blend of cultural influence, creating unique regions where traditions have harmoniously merged over centuries, like Alsace, bordering France and Germany, which is evident in its distinctive architecture, wine-making heritage, and cuisine.
Today, you can embrace the continent’s shared heritage in no better way than by taking cruises on the Rhine, where you’ll be surrounded by Europe’s intensely beautiful history and culture at every turn.
Highlights of the Rhine River
Cruises on the Rhine River offer many highlights. From stately castles to fairytale villages, the river’s banks are brimming with historic treasures, natural beauty, and vibrant capitals. Here are some of the many highlights you can expect to see as you journey on a Rhine river cruise:
The Netherlands: Amsterdam and the Dutch Waterways
From Amsterdam, the vibrant capital of the Netherlands, where golden charm meets contemporary culture, voyage upstream through colourful Dutch waterways and rich farmland dotted with windmills.
Some of the most iconic attractions on this stretch of a Rhine River cruise include the iconic canal ring, a UNESCO World Heritage site with elegant 17th-century merchant houses, and visiting world-class museums in Amsterdam, including the Rijksmuseum and Van Gogh Museum.
As you cruise the Netherlands, why not take a canal boat tour through Amsterdam’s historic waterways? Or, take to bike to explore the city and the surrounding countryside, at a slower pace.
Germany: Cologne and the Middle Rhine
Immerse yourself in the rich history of Germany and its vibrant urban culture in Cologne, before voyaging onwards to the dramatic Rhine Gorge. Some of the most spectacular attractions on this route include Cologne's grand Gothic Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site housing the ornate Shrine of the Three Kings, alongside its well-preserved Old Town, dotted with colourful buildings and lively squares.
Take to the streets of Cologne to experience its history and culture during a guided walking tour, and visit the city’s renowned museums, or its chocolate factory if you want to savour something sweet!
The Franco-German Border: Strasbourg
Discover the cultural fusion of French and German influences, which have given rise to one of Europe's most distinctive cities, Strasbourg. Visit the fairytale Petite France district with its half-timbered houses and flower-lined canals, and marvel at Strasbourg Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture with a mesmerising astronomical clock.
During your visit, connect with Strasbourg from a new perspective on a boat tour through its picturesque canals, or embark on a guided walk through the UNESCO-listed historic centre, sampling unique Alsatian cuisine from local vendors en route.
Switzerland: Alpine Landscapes and Beyond
Experience Switzerland's awe-inspiring Alpine landscapes and visit its cultural capital on a spectacular journey through the country on this leg of a Rhine River cruise. Explore Basel's well-preserved Old Town centred around the vibrant Marktplatz, and visit the city's exceptional art museums, including the Kunstmuseum and Fondation Beyeler. You can even go on a walking tour of Basel's architectural highlights spanning 15th-century Gothic to modern masterpieces, or embark on a day trip to the Rhine Falls - Europe’s largest waterfall - on select Rhine River cruises.
Other highlights of Rhine River cruises include:
- Bamberg’s brightly-coloured fishermen’s houses in Little Venice
- The timber-framed houses of Bernkastell surrounding the medieval square
- Heidelberg, a favourite of writers and philosophers
- German Corner in Koblenz, where the River Moselle flows into the Rhine
- The Printing Museum in Mainz, birthplace of Johann Gutenberg
- Rüdesheim’s wine-growing region
- The spectacular Rhine Gorge with the legendary Lorelei Rock
River Rhine Ports
A cruise on the Rhine River and her tributaries offers the opportunity to enjoy the passing scenery and go ashore to explore a viariety of riverside attractions
Cologne, Germany
Founded by the Romans, Cologne has long been an important trading centre and was once home to the composers Schumann and Mendelssohn. The city's main attraction is the twin-spired Gothic cathedral whch dominates the skyline. There are also baroque palaces, medieval churches and a 16th-century City Hall.
Amsterdam, Netherlands
The cruise terminal in Amsterdam is a short distance from the city centre and its tall merchant houses and tree-lined canals. Chief sights are the prestigious Rijks museum and its large collection of important paintings, the Van Gogh Museum and Ann Frank’s House. The attractive narrow streets are full of bars, coffee houses, quaint bridges and interesting shops.
Rudesheim, Germany
The scenic town of Rudesheim has many attractions - it sits at the foot of the Niederwald mountain and in one of the Rhines best wine-making regions. Stroll the gorgeous Drosselgasse and sip a glass of superb Riesling in a cosy tavern or take a tour by gondola up the Niederwald,. Other options include Castle Vollards or a miniature train ride to the eccentric Mechanical Music Museum.
Basel, Switzerland
Basel is a handsome city with a buzzing Marketplatz and daily food markets. In its old town are winding streets, the cathedral, red-brick City Hall, art museums and many historic buildings. The green valleys and chocolate-box villages of Switzerland are sometimes included in tours from Basel.
Strasbourg, France
The Grand Ile is the historic centre of Strasbourg, the busy European capital which combines dazzling historic buildings with the offices of the European Parliament and modern commerce. Stroll the fairytale district of Petite France, see covered bridges and the magnificent cathedral.
Choosing the Right Rhine River Cruise
Which Rhine River Cruise is Right for You?
The Rhine River offers an exceptional variety of cruise experiences to suit different preferences, schedules, and interests. From short getaways to extended voyages, and budget-friendly options to the finest luxury sailings, you’re guaranteed to find a cruise along the River Rhine that is suited to you.
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Short Rhine River Cruises (3-5 days):
This is an ideal option for first-time river cruisers or those with limited holiday time, offering condensed itineraries that tick off the most scenic and iconic destinations on the Rhine.
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Classic Rhine River Cruises (7-8 days):
The most popular length for Rhine River cruises, these classic itineraries of week-long voyages offer comprehensive coverage of the river's highlights.
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Extended Rhine River Cruises (10-15 days):
For cruisers seeking a deeper experience of the Rhine River, these longer itineraries explore the river’s route in depth, alongside exploring connected waterways like the Danube or Moselle.
Types of Rhine River Cruises
Luxury Rhine River Cruises
Premium cruise lines like Uniworld and Scenic offer spectacular itineraries along the Rhine River where you can enjoy the finer things in life. Amenities and facilities onboard, as well as experiences during a Rhine River cruise include:
- Spacious suites with butler service and balconies
- Exceptional dining options with regional specialities and fine wines
- Higher staff-to-guest ratios for personalised service
- Exclusive access to cultural events and private venues
Mid-Range Rhine River Cruises
Companies like Viking, Emerald, AmaWaterways, and APT Travelmarvel provide excellent value Rhine River cruises, offering you everything you could need for a comfortable cruise experience along this beautiful waterway, including:
- Comfortable riverview staterooms, many with balconies or panoramic windows
- Inclusive meals with select complimentary drinks
- Included shore excursions with optional premium experiences
- Cultural enrichment programs and onboard entertainment
Budget-Friendly Rhine River Cruises
Operators such as CroisiEurope and Riviera Travel offer exceptional value for money river cruises for those seeking to explore the Rhine River on a budget. You’ll have everything you need for an enjoyable experience along the Rhine, including:
- Comfortable riverview cabins
- Quality dining with some inclusive beverages
- Select included excursions with optional premium tours
Themed Rhine River Cruises
Offering the opportunity for travellers to embrace some of the most unique experiences available along the Rhine River, travellers can expect select themed sailings, including:
- Wine-themed Rhine cruises are perfect for oenophiles, in which travellers can visit renowned vineyards and take part in tastings led by wine experts
- Christmas market Rhine cruises offer magical voyages to visit multiple enchanting Christmas markets along the Rhine, with festive onboard décor and seasonal entertainment
What to Expect on a Rhine River Cruise
A Rhine River cruise offers an intimate and immersive experience onboard one of Europe’s most exceptional waterways. As such, you can expect an equally exceptional experience onboard. This includes state-of-the-art river cruise vessels that typically accommodate 100-200 passengers in comfortable, well-designed staterooms with private bathrooms, all with a view of the river, and some with balconies from which you can view the ever-changing scenery.
Culinary experiences onboard these vessels are also a highlight of Rhine river cruising, with all ships including full-board dining. Menus often include regionally inspired cuisine featuring local ingredients and specialities, and complimentary drinks are often included.
Despite their intimate size, Rhine River cruise vessels offer thoughtfully designed common areas, often with panoramic lounges with floor-to-ceiling windows for scenic cruising in a larger space. Sun decks with comfortable seating are common onboard many vessels, as well as leisure facilities like pools, cosy libraries, or game rooms. Wellness areas that may include fitness equipment, small spas, or saunas (on luxury vessels) are common, too!
Expect plenty of opportunities for shore excursions, some of which may be included in your itinerary, with guided experiences often including daily walking tours led by knowledgeable local guides, and various activity levels accommodating different abilities. You’ll also often find free time built into most port calls for independent exploration.
While onboard, Rhine River cruise vessels offer engaging activities as well, which may include educational presentations about upcoming destinations, cultural demonstrations like culinary workshops, or even local entertainment brought onboard, like classical musicians or folk performers.
What to Know Before You Sail on a Rhine River Cruise
There are a few key considerations you should make before sailing on your Rhine River cruise:
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Travel Documents
Make sure your passports are valid for entry into the European countries you’ll be visiting on your Rhine River cruise, and in line with your home country’s restrictions and regulations for foreign travel. Non-EU visitors should also verify specific visa requirements based on nationality.
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Packing Considerations
Make sure you’re packing the right items depending on your itinerary and included excursions. This might mean packing comfortable walking shoes for cobblestone streets and guided tours, small bags for shore excursions during the day, and also binoculars for viewing the scenery from onboard your vessel. You’ll also want to make sure you’ve packed European plug adapters for electronics, and that you prepare for the weather you may be expecting, depending on what season you’re visiting.
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Currency
The Euro is used in most Rhine destinations (Netherlands, Germany, France), but Switzerland uses Swiss Francs. Credit and debit cards and travel money cards are widely accepted in all European countries along the Rhine route, though having some cash to hand is useful for small purchases.
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Travel Insurance
We always strongly recommend that you have travel insurance before going on your Rhine River cruise to cover potential disruptions from weather or water level issues that occasionally affect Rhine navigation. In some cases, your cruise provider may not allow you to board if you can’t prove you have comprehensive travel insurance cover for your trip.
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Health Considerations
Make sure you pack sufficient prescription medications, plus basics like pain relievers and motion sickness remedies, for your Rhine River cruise, alongside extras on the off-chance that you are delayed in returning home.
Rhine Cruise Reviews
Rhine River Cruise FAQs
The cruise season on the Rhine usually starts in March and lasts into December. Spring is usually cooler and there will be less people about, suiting those who like to explore without crowds. Cruising on the Rhine in spring usually offers the opportunity to visit the tulip fields of Holland at the best time. Summer can be a busier time to cruise, with more tourists, but is usually warmer so suits those who prefer to holiday in warmer climates. Autumn means that the surrounding river banks change colour, and with the wine harvests in September it is a great time to discover regional wines en route. November and December are a very festive time to cruise the Rhine, with traditional Christmas markets in local towns and cities.
For more information on the best time to cruise the Rhine, see our dedicated blog What is the best month to take a Rhine River cruise
A standard Rhine cruise is usually seven nights long, which takes you along the popular stretches of the Rhine between Amsterdam and Basel. These cruises visit popular Rhine ports like Cologne, Rudesheim and Strasbourg in France. Some Rhine cruises last longer, allowing more opportunity to explore lesser-visited parts of the Rhine, like Speyer and Heidelberg. Most Rhine cruises will take in the scenic Middle Rhine section of the river, with its fairytale castles perched above terraced vineyards.
Read our blog on the top towns to visit on a Rhine cruise
There are a number of cruise lines operating river cruises on the Rhine. As a quick guide, luxury all-inclusive cruise lines are Uniworld Boutique River Cruises and Scenic. Known for superb food are AmaWaterways, with their Chaine des Rossiteurs connection. If you enjoy a British experience on board then Riviera Travel are recommended, whereas for a more European flavour, CroisiEurope and Amadeus are good options. Emerald and APT Travelmarvel offer a contemporary, modern experience, representing excellent value.
Each cruise line is different and it can be difficult to determine which will suit you best. As river cruise experts for over 20 years, our Blue Water specialists can help you find the perfect cruise for you – call us on 01756 706500 for independent advice on the best Rhine cruise.
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