Cruise through the heart of Germany along the picturesque Rhine and Moselle rivers visiting some of the most fascinating towns and villages.
Embark your floating hotel in Cologne and cruise along the Rhine and Moselle rivers to Cochem, which was once the centre of the Moselle wine trade. Then sail past the dramatic valley sides and stunning vineyeards, towards the Roman town of Trier. Here, you can find ancient baths, impressive bridges and a fortified Roman gate, before your ship heads back along the Moselle.
In Bernkastel, wander the ancient streets and the cobbled market square before an overnight cruise takes you to 2,000 year old Koblenz and picturesque Boppard. Finally, soak up the immense beauty of the Rhine Gorge as you sail past castle ruins and and pretty villages to Rudesheim's crooked houses and splendid local wines.
RT111 Operated by Riviera Travel
.
Rhine and Moselle River Itinerary
Day 1 - UK - Cologne (Germany)
Take the Eurostar from London St Pancras to Brussels or fly from the UK to Dusseldorf or Cologne and transfer to your ship, moored in Cologne. The dedicated crew will welcome you aboard your five-star floating hotel.
Day 2 - Cochem
This morning cruise through the Rhine Gorge, whilst enjoying a leisurely breakfast in the ship's restaurant. Enjoy an invigorating stroll along the sun deck, taking in the stunning views of picture postcard villages and timber framed houses. After lunch, arrive in Cochem, which was once the centre of the Moselle wine trade. You will have time to wander in the town before stepping back on board for dinner.
Day 3 - Trier - Bernkastel
Today drive to Trier, one of the most fascinating cities in Germany which was once home to Karl Marx. It has one of the best amphitheatres, roman baths and bridges, and the fortified gate of Porta Nigra which towers above the surrounding medieval buildings. Learn about the city on a guided tour. Rejoin the ship in Bernkastel.
Day 4 - Bernkastel
In the morning you are free to explore Bernkastel and its delightful cobbled market square surrounded by half-timbered houses. In the afternoon, you will slip your mooring and cruise back downstream.
Day 5 - Koblenz – Boppard
Visit 2000 year-old Koblenz and enjoy a guided walk to the main monuments and through the historic centre with its delightful squares, restored houses and hidden alleyways. Rejoin the ship for lunch whilst cruising to Boppard, known as the 'Pearl of the Rhine'. The picturesque village has cobbled streets, half-timbered houses and well-preserved Roman town walls.
Day 6 - Rudesheim
This morning's cruise is a highlight as you journey through the natural beauty of the Rhine Gorge, past riverside castles and wine-producing villages. This afternoon stop at Rudesheim, one of the most famous Rhine wine towns with crooked houses and terraced vineyards. Visit the Asbach brandy distillery or perhaps take a trip on the gondola for spectacular views across the river. Especially worth a visit is the superb Mechanical Instrument Museum.
Day 7 - Cologne
Rejoining the Rhine this morning, cruise to the heart of Cologne and moor in the shadow of the magnificent Gothic Cathedral. This magnificent building took 600 years to build and has the most intricate stained glass in Europe. This afternoon enjoy a guided tour of the city before free time to explore at leisure. Sample regional specialities at the Captain's Dinner this evening.
Day 8 - Cologne - UK
This morning drive to Brussels for your connecting Eurostar back to London St Pancras or alternatively drive to the airport for your return flight home.
The Captain reserves the right to alter the itinerary to suit wind and weather conditions.