Discover, Dine, and Delight: A River Cruise on the Rhine and Moselle Rivers
If you’re considering a river cruise along these rivers, get ready for a journey that’s equal parts scenic beauty and cultural treasure. From the lush vineyards of the Moselle to the fairytale castles perched above the Rhine, each stop along these rivers offers a some wonderful experiences!
Here is a taste of what awaits you in the nine best cities on the Rhine and Moselle: quaint medieval towns, historic landmarks, and vibrant local scenes that are easy to explore right from your ship.
Whether you’re captivated by centuries-old architecture or eager to sample local wines, these riverside gems bring Europe’s rich history and charm to life in ways that will inspire and delight at every port.
Amsterdam, Netherlands: Its likely you will begin or end your memorable river cruise in Amsterdam, where you'll delve into the city's storied past at landmarks like Dam Square – the historic city center, the Anne Frank House, the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum – home of the Dutch masters. Walk alongside the canals, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of cafes, shops, and local cuisine.
For a short time in the spring, witness the tulip spectacle at Keukenhof Gardens. There are special river cruises that highlight this spectacular springtime show!
Düsseldorf, Germany: In vibrant Düsseldorf, you can explore upscale boutiques on the elegant Königsallee shopping boulevard or immerse yourself in the city's rich cultural scene by visiting the Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-Westfalen art museum.
Enjoy a glass of Altbier, the city’s iconic dark beer (yum), as you soak up the convivial atmosphere of the local taverns or stroll along the picturesque Rhine promenade for memorable views of the city skyline.
Cologne, Germany: With its iconic cathedral dominating the skyline, Cologne is a city steeped in history and tradition. One can't help but marvel at the stunning architecture of the iconic Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Explore the vibrant Old Town District with its trendy boutiques, cozy cafes, and lively beer gardens. We enjoyed discovering Cologne's long-standing beer culture as we sipped the city's famous Kölsch beer after our explorations.
Koblenz, Germany: This city is brimming with things to see! Explore the impressive Deutsches Eck, where the Rhine and Moselle rivers meet, and the Kaiser Wilhelm monument symbolizing German unity.
You can take the cable car up to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress for panoramic views of the city. Wander the historic Old Town with its cobbled streets, cozy wine bars, and the 9th-century Basilica of St. Castor.
As part of the Mosel wine region, Koblenz also offers plenty of spots to taste local Riesling, adding a flavor of local culture to the stunning scenery.
Cochem, Germany: A gem in Germany’s Mosel Valley, this city charms visitors with its mix of history, scenery, and welcoming culture.
Towering over the town, Reichsburg Castle offers a glimpse into medieval life with its beautifully preserved rooms and sweeping views of the valley. The old town below invites you to wander through its narrow, winding streets, lined with colorful houses and family-owned cafes.
In Marktplatz (market square), take in the lively atmosphere as you explore local boutiques or relax at a street-side café. For wine enthusiasts, Cochem’s location in the heart of the Mosel wine region makes it a perfect spot to savor Riesling—the region’s renowned varietal—at inviting wine bars and traditional cellars.
Bernkastel, Germany: This town embodies the fairytale charm of medieval Germany with its historic Marktplatz, where beautifully preserved half-timbered houses line cobblestone streets.
The square is filled with lively cafes, family-owned shops, and cozy wine taverns. Stop in for tastings at local wine cellars, where you’ll experience the full flavor of the Mosel region’s renowned Rieslings, crafted from the grapes that flourish on the steep hillsides surrounding the town.
For breathtaking views, venture up to Landshut Castle, whose 9th-century ruins overlook the river and valley. The panoramic view captures the lush vineyards, charming town below, and the winding Moselle, making it a must-visit spot.
Bernkastel also hosts annual wine festivals, offering visitors a deeper taste of its rich winemaking heritage, making each corner of this town a celebration of culture, history, and scenic beauty.
Frankfurt, Germany: This cosmopolitan city invites you to experience its dynamic blend of modern innovation and historical charm.
Stroll through Römerberg Square and step into medieval times as you admire the iconic half-timbered houses and the historic Römer town hall. Visit the cultural Museum Embankment, where you’ll find world-class institutions like the Städel Museum and the German Film Museum lining the scenic Main River.
The city has a diverse culinary scene - enjoy sampling international cuisine alongside traditional German dishes. Don’t miss the chance to relax in a cozy Apfelwein (apple wine) tavern, where you can enjoy the region’s beloved cider-like drink and feel the warmth of Frankfurt’s local culture. Delicious!
Strasbourg, France: Strasbourg is a fusion of French and German cultures, evident in its unique architecture, cuisine, and atmosphere.
The breathtaking Strasbourg Cathedral, with its intricate Gothic design and awe-inspiring astronomical clock, is a must-see and offers panoramic views of the city from its tower. Don't miss the picturesque Petite France neighborhood, where cobblestone streets lead you past scenic canals and charming half-timbered houses that evoke a storybook feel.
Try the Alsatian cuisine at local brasseries, especially dishes like choucroute garnie and flammekueche. At the lively markets scattered throughout the city, pick up some regional specialties, fresh produce, or artisanal crafts.
During the holidays, Strasbourg’s famous Christmas market, one of the oldest in Europe, transforms the city into a dazzling winter wonderland filled with lights, festive stalls, and the comforting aroma of mulled wine and baked treats. Consider a Christmas market river cruise for a very festive vacation!
Basel, Switzerland: You’ll discover a delightful blend of culture, history, and modern charm in Basel. Located at the borders of Switzerland, France and Germany, Basel is a true cultural cross-road.
Experience the city’s rich cultural heritage through its dynamic arts scene, featuring world-class collections at the Fondation Beyeler, known for its modern and contemporary art, and the Kunstmuseum Basel, which showcases masterpieces from various eras. Throughout the year, Basel comes alive with festivals and events, like the Art Basel art fair, adding to its vibrant atmosphere and inviting you to immerse yourself in the local culture while enjoying a lively urban experience.
Be sure to indulge in the culinary diversity by enjoying French and German cuisine at numerous cafes, brasseries, and beer gardens, where you can savor local specialties like Basler Läckerli, a traditional gingerbread cookie.
There you have it - the nine best cities along the Rhine and Moselle rivers with breathtaking views, delicious food and wine, and a wealth of experiences awaiting at each port. Take a river cruise to experience these for yourself - the perfect way to create unforgettable vacation memories!
Keep dreaming, keep exploring,
and keep making memories.
All my best,
Deb
Deb Pentek is the Owner / Travel Agent of Vacation Memories by Deb, LLC. She is a member of ASTA (American Society of Travel Advisors) and CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association). Born and raised on the east coast, she relocated to the Chicago area with her family. She and her husband have enjoyed traveling with their two (now adult) children, from Disney to Europe, South America, Africa and Japan. She and her husband now travel together to check off their never-ending bucket list. Deb's extensive travel has taught her much, and she loves sharing travel tips and booking exciting trips for her clients. She strives to create amazing vacation memories to last a lifetime.
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