Summary
Sail through the Rhine Gorge, one of the most scenic stretches of river in the world, and visit two historic yet distinctly different German ports: Rüdesheim and Cologne.
Rüdesheim captivates all its visitors with its quaint charm and narrow cobblestone streets lined with timber-framed buildings. Discover Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet or enjoy a guided walking tour. You'll have the opportunity to sample exquisite local wines in atmospheric taverns during time at leisure - we recommend the Riesling, the region's speciality.
We make a brief stop at the historic City of Koblenz on the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers.
In Cologne, it's hard to miss the Gothic cathedral as it stretches skywards - a testament to centuries of architectural grandeur and spiritual significance. Beyond this iconic landmark, a rich history is waiting to be discovered in the old town and bustling markets. But we're not exaggerating when we say the highlight of this river cruise is our voyage through the jaw-dropping Rhine Gorge, boasting dramatic natural scenery punctuated by the silent ruins of medieval castles and fortresses.
This holiday is ideal for those looking to sample a Riviera river cruise and travellers who want a short break exploring some of the most spectacular sights of Germany and the Rhine.
Themes: History & Culture
Itinerary & Map
Cologne is a city in western Germany located across the Rhine river. It is the oldest in Germany, dating back 2000 years and is considered the region’s cultural...
Full description
Located in the West of the country, Koblenz is one of the oldest cities in Germany. It is situated on both banks of the river Rhine, at its confluence with the...
Full description
Cologne is a city in western Germany located across the Rhine river. It is the oldest in Germany, dating back 2000 years and is considered the region’s cultural...
Full description
Cologne is a city in western Germany located across the Rhine river. It is the oldest in Germany, dating back 2000 years and is considered the region’s cultural...
Full description
Located in the West of the country, Koblenz is one of the oldest cities in Germany. It is situated on both banks of the river Rhine, at its confluence with the...
Full description
Cologne is a city in western Germany located across the Rhine river. It is the oldest in Germany, dating back 2000 years and is considered the region’s cultural...
Full descriptionDAY 1
Cologne is a city in western Germany located across the Rhine river. It is the oldest in Germany, dating back 2000 years and is considered the region’s cultural hub. The city is known for its iconic landmark of the twin-spired Cologne Cathedral set against the reconstructed Old Town buildings. When in Old Town, visit the historic Old Town Hall and the Roman Church Great St Martin, or take time out and sit at one of the traditional breweries and enjoy the scenery around you. Historical sites such as the Roman Dionysus mosaic and the medieval Overstolzenhaus are worth a visit too. Another iconic sight in Cologne is at Hohenzollern Bridge. Here, local and tourist couples affix padlocks to the railings of the bridge and swear their loyalty to each other, they then throw the key into the Rhein to ensure everlasting love. Cologne is home to over 30 stages providing cabaret, free ensembles, theatre and dance and also celebrates its openly gay culture.
DAY 3
Located in the West of the country, Koblenz is one of the oldest cities in Germany. It is situated on both banks of the river Rhine, at its confluence with the Moselle River. The beginnings of Koblenz can be traced back to its military beginnings around 8 BC. The city is rich in its history and heritage and is easily explored on foot. Take the cable car crossing over the river Rhine for spectacular aerial views or enjoy the city from the one thousand year old fortress, Ehrenbreitstein. The upper middle Rhine Valley is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and its unique landscape can be enjoyed and discovered through the interactive multimedia journey at the Romanticum. Historical and architectural sites of interest include Stolzenfels Castle, the Electoral Palace of Koblenz and Old Town. From the romantic winding streets and small squares of Old Town, stroll through the alleyways from the Church of the Holy Virgin to the St Kastor Basilica and enjoy the picturesque buildings and squares along the way. Koblenz is also very popular for its Riesling and strong Spatburgunder wines since the Romans introduced it two thousand years ago.
Dates & prices
Select guest
Flights included from London Heathrow
Departs
Sat 7 Nov 2026
from £999 pp
Enquire now Call 020 7590 0610Per person, based on two sharing, flights included. Updated daily and confirmed when you book. Flights from UK airports only.