Captivating Rhine river cruise from Amsterdam to Basel, 31 October 2026 (7 nights)

Wander along picturesque canals, explore world-class museums, and enjoy the vibrant culture of this iconic Dutch city.

Despite being among the biggest cities in the Netherlands outside of Amsterdam, Utrecht really is the definition of a hidden gem when it comes to this incredible Central European nation. A destination boasting beautiful canals throughout the city centre, a collection of unique museums exploring historical and cultural topics, interesting landmarks and symbolic sites, and an abundance of charming cafes and sensational restaurants, it’s a sensational spot with something for every type of traveller. A bustling city with plenty of greenspace for strolling, if the scenic canals aren’t to your liking, explorers and culture vultures alike will enjoy spending some time here. You can even opt to canoe through the canals, stopping off at waterside cafes and bars serving local beers, if you want the best of both worlds! Or, as an increasingly cycle-friendly city, why not rent a bicycle to take Utrecht by storm? Just north of the Rhine, this compact city has everything you need in walking distance, and rewards everyone who visits – whether you decide to adventure further afield or stick to the city centre.

A major German city with a rich history, charming culture, impressive landmarks, and contrasting experiences that will suit every type of traveller, Düsseldorf is easily one of the most exciting destinations you can visit when you’re cruising along the winding Rhine River. Boasting a remarkable historic city centre with more than enough museums to visit, this is a dream for history buffs. Similarly, though, culture vultures will also find an incredible variety of experiences to explore – with world-class architecture to admire, art exhibitions to attend, and so much more. You’ll also find an impressive culinary scene in Düsseldorf; while there will be plenty of places to enjoy traditional German foods and beverages, this city is also home to Europe’s third-largest Japanese community. So, if you want to sample something a little more exotic, a trip to the vibrant Little Tokyo is in order. This cultural hotspot is complemented by Japanese gardens in Düsseldorf’s expansive Nord Park, which is just one of the charming green-spaces worth spending some time wandering through when the sun is shining. If you’re looking to enjoy the great outdoors, Düsseldorf has several major parks and scenic riverside routes, and you’ll find even more idyllic landscapes to admire further afield. Although, with just so much to explore and enjoy in Düsseldorf itself, you may want to save that for your next visit to this remarkable city.

Something of a gateway destination for those looking to explore German wine culture, and the breathtakingly beautiful Rhine Valley region, Rüdesheim is a stunning small town on the banks of the Rhine boasting a rich history of wine-making, surrounded by breathtaking vineyard-covered hillsides, and littered with interesting historic landmarks. Oh, and it has charm in abundance. Everywhere you look, there’s something exciting to enjoy, and every type of traveller will be catered for. If you want to soak up the sunshine and sample the local wines and cuisine, Drosselgasse – this town’s most famous street – is where you’ll want to visit. However, if you want to sightsee, you’ll find several cable cars taking tourists into the elevated hiking areas surrounding the town, where scenic views of the Rhine and surrounding area await. Despite its size, Rüdesheim is a bustling centre for tourism in the region; however, while that does mean it may be a little busier than the other small German towns you visit, it’s still just as charming. Rüdesheim will be one destination from your adventures through Germany and Central Europe you remember.

Sitting just across the Rhine from Mannheim, Ludwigshafen is one of the most fascinating destinations on a Rhine river cruise; it’s somewhere shaped by the chemicals industry and modern art, but also by its rich history and vibrant culinary scene – all while boasting a laid-back atmosphere, something you don’t often find in cities of this size. So, whether you’re here looking for an authentic cultural excursion or a more modern experience, you’ll be well looked-after in Ludwigshafen. One thing that highlights the uniqueness of this destination is its approach to modern art; you’ll find impressive paintings and murals almost everywhere you look, outside the most historic areas of the city, and the museums and galleries here are home to some spectacular works worth taking the time to see. Hemshof, Ludwigshafen’s oldest district, is also one of its most innovative, with an incredible culinary scene centered around this incredible part of the city. And, you’ll also find a fantastic blend of boutique shopping experiences and modern retail opportunities here, making this port of call perfect if you’re looking to pick up a souvenir – or anything else you might want or need while in Germany. If, though, you’re looking for something a little different, this port of call is the perfect place to embark on an adventure to Heidelberg: a picturesque town just half an hour from Ludwigshafen. One of the most beautiful places in the region, Heidelberg is home to impressive medieval ruins, authentic cuisine, relaxing riverside walking routes, and luscious landscapes. For those who don’t mind adding a little more travelling to your time in Ludwigshafen, this is a stunning addition to everything already on offer in this remarkable destination.

Sitting across the Rhine from the German town of Kehl, Strasbourg is an eclectic French city with an intriguing history, a unique culture that bridges this region’s past and present, and a significant role in modern international relations; it’s one of the de facto capitals of the European Union alongside Brussels, Luxembourg City, and Frankfurt. Right on the border between France and Germany, Strasbourg encapsulates everything great about the region on either side of the Rhine, boasting a charming old town full of half-timbered buildings and interesting historical monuments alongside a progressive modernity that will ensure everyone visiting will find something to their liking. If you’re a fan of unique museums, you’ll find an abundance of them among the interesting sites littering this city; the engaging Museum of Seismology and Earth Magnetism sits in the Jardin du Palais Universitaire (University Palace Garden), which is just a stone’s throw from an incredible Planetarium and not far from the picturesque Parc de L’Orangerie. You’ll also find plenty of museums and galleries dedicated to both modern and fine art alongside an abundance of restaurants and cafes giving you the chance to sample the unique blend of French and German cuisines found here. It might be just a bridge away from Kehl, but Strasbourg is a striking city unlike any other; with an addictive lively atmosphere, yet ample opportunity to take a laid-back approach to your visit, this is one destination you’ll want to return to – time, and time, again.

A charming German town situated along the Rhine, which is just a bridge away from France, Breisach is a picturesque place with a skyline dominated by Breisacher Stephanmunster – a 13th-century Romanesque Gothic cathedral towering over this region bordering the Black Forest. Home to one of Europe’s largest wine cellars, this is an ideal destination for anyone interested in the wineries and vineyards found throughout the Rhine Valley; you’re certain to find a scenic spot to sip on something delicious when in Breisach, anyway, even if the winemaking process doesn’t interest you as much as the final product. Interestingly, much like other towns and cities along parts of the Rhine which act as a border to France, Breisach also spent some time as a French territory – having been given to France during the Peace of Westphalia in 1684, before being annexed back to the Grand Duchy of Baden in 1805. This, and its continued close proximity to parts of France – Volgelsheim and the unique fortified town of Neuf-Brisach to be specific – have afforded Breisach a unique culture and cuisine. So, when you’re not enjoying a scenic riverside stroll or venturing further afield to appreciate the vibrant valleys surrounding this town, you can expect an incredible culinary experience here. Somewhere offering travellers a slower-paced shore experience, this destination is a refreshing example of authentic life on the Rhine and somewhere where everyone will find something they enjoy.

A stunning Swiss city sitting on the Rhine, and the borders of both France and Germany, Basel is truly unlike anywhere else in the world. Considered the cultural capital of Switzerland, this city boasts a charming historic centre, a dynamic modern art scene with museums of all kinds to enjoy, a culinary landscape you’ll want to spend time exploring, and a lively atmosphere fostered by the confluence of Swiss, German, and French cultures. It’s somewhere where tradition is held in high regard, but innovation is encouraged. No matter what type of traveller you are, you’ll find something to enjoy in Basel; and, when you leave, you’ll have fond memories of your time here. For those looking for an unrivalled view of the surrounding scenery, a trip up one of the towers on Basel Cathedral is a must; or, for the best views along the river itself, a stroll over Mittlere Brücke is not to be missed. Beyond that, a plethora of incredible cultural experiences await – whether you’re spending time exploring the Kuntsmuseum Basel, checking out Basel Zoo, or even spending some time soaking up the sunshine and enjoying the local cuisine in one of the riverside buvettes.