Save an additional £25 per person if you book online
ID:
434538
Overview
Stylish accommodation with premium amenities
Locally-inspired dining and international cuisine at elegant restaurants
Complimentary Superior Drinks Package (on 2025 European river cruise departures), which includes unlimited select beverages with lunch in restaurants and unlimited select beverages from 18:00 to midnight in bars and restaurants
Complimentary All-Inclusive Drinks Package (on 2026 European river cruise departures), which includes unlimited select beverages in bars and restaurants from 10:00 to midnight
Select shore excursions, tours, and immersive experiences
Complimentary wifi internet access onboard (connection speeds may vary)
Transfers to and from the airport and the port of embarkation
Return flights to select airports
The services of a Riviera Travel Cruise Director and Concierge
Port charges & fees
Free Fortnum & Mason Hamper Plus extra savings on all river cruises in February* PLUS £49pp deposits!
To book an accessible cabin, please give us a call
020 3991 1166
Iglu Cruise customer reviews for MS Oscar Wilde
5.0
Based on 4 reviews
Cabin
5
Service
5
Excursions
5
Dining
5
Activities
5
Value for money
5
Entertainment
5
Excellent cruise,well organised ,good food,lovely ship.Nothing we could fault.Only critism was that tickets did not arrive till late (not the fault of the cruise line).
user
1 cruise
25 Sep 2019
Excellent cruise,well organised ,good food,lovely ship. Nothing we could fault. Only critism was that tickets did not arrive till late (not the fault of the cruise line).
user
1 cruise
25 Sep 2019
Fantastic cruise on the Oscar Wilde on the Danube. The whole experience was amazing - lovely itinerary, fabulous ship, wonder crew and staff, excellent food and drinks. Loved it
user
1 cruise
16 Aug 2018
Fantastic cruise on the Oscar Wilde on the Danube. The whole experience was amazing - lovely itinerary, fabulous ship, wonder crew and staff, excellent food and drinks. Loved it
^The FREE F&M Hamper is one per booking (up to the value of £145 per booking) to be send out within 60 days of booking. Applicable to new river cruise bookings only sailings with a minimum spend of £2,499pp
All offers and prices are subject to change and availability at time of enquiry. Prices are based on two passengers sharing unless otherwise stated and are subject to the Tour Operator's terms and conditions. Cabin and Flight supplements may apply. Other supplements may apply in addition to the price shown above. Flight details, timings and routing may be subject to alteration. Other tour operator charges may also apply. Any Onboard Spending money or drinks package value shown will be per cabin, again based on two sharing.
Supplier Reference:
(F)2027-08-24MSOW
Talk to a Cruise Expert
Our cruise experts will help you pick the perfect cruise line, ship and destination.
We can tailor any package to suit your holiday needs: Add or extend hotel stays, arrange flights and find the best cabin location for you.
Say goodbye to your current destination, for it’s time to head somewhere new! Flight information will be available closer to your embarkation date, but this will be when you’re hopping on a plane to continue your adventure – be that travelling somewhere new, or heading home.
Cologne
DAY 1
24 Aug 2027
Time at Port: TBD
A charming, inspiring German city sitting on the Rhine river, Cologne is a culture-rich cruise destination boasting an inviting, lively atmosphere, a host of modern attractions and activities, impressive historic landmarks, and a culinary experience you’ll want to spend some time savouring. If you’re looking to take a trip ashore with some medieval flair, Cologne’s remarkable Old Town is bound to charm you with its winding cobblestone streets, picturesque squares tucked away from the hustle and bustle, and abundance of authentic cafes, restaurants, bars, and breweries. When here, you’ll find yourself in the shadows of the breathtaking Cologne Cathedral – the tallest cathedral in the world and this city’s most iconic landmark. Don’t worry, though, you’re not going to be limited to an experience inspired by the Middle Ages when you’re in Cologne; the reformed and rebuilt Rheinauhafen district is a highlight of the modern delights throughout the city and a focal point for state-of-the-art architecture. Once an important harbour on the river, you’ll find a variety of interesting historic structures and sites here; however, you’ll also find unique museums, stylish cafes, some of the finest restaurants in the city, and fantastic views along the Rhine. A city of contrasts, with both the historic and modern charms of Cologne equally exciting, there’s one universal truth when it comes to visiting this remarkable city: you’re going to have a fantastic time, whatever you decide to do when you’re ashore.
Things to do in Cologne:
Cologne Cathedral
A renowned monument of German Catholicism and Gothic architecture, Cologne Cathedral is the tallest Cathedral in the world and Germany’s most-visited landmark by a comfortable margin. While construction on the cathedral began in 1248, the impressive structure we see today was not actually fully completed until 1880 – and it remained standing despite multiple aerial attacks during the Second World War, being an easily navigable target for Allied aircraft due to its height. Home to a variety of treasures and unique artworks, this is undoubtedly a must-visit destination in Cologne.
Basilica of St. Cunibert
The last Romanesque church built in Cologne before construction of Cologne Cathedral, the Basilica of St. Cunibert is an impressive example of this secular architecture and among the most impressive sights you can see from the Rhine as you pass through the city. Badly damaged throughout the Second World War, this structure was faithfully reconstructed and restored throughout the second half of the 20th century; however, many of the 13th century stained-glass windows still survive to this day – which is quite the feat.
Flora Botanical Garden
A historic greenspace in the heart of Cologne, the Flora Botanical Garden in the heart of Cologne is a relaxing destination to spend some time that dates back to 1863 and features an impressive orangery inspired by the Crystal Palace in London and Paris’ Jardin d’hiver – something which gives this area a unique grandeur unlike anything else in the city. Cultivating nearly 10,000 types of plants, a world of flora awaits in this picturesque part of the city.
Koblenz
DAY 2
25 Aug 2027
Time at Port: TBD
A historic city on the banks of the Rhine and Moselle, Koblenz is one of the oldest settlements in Germany and set against a dramatic backdrop of vibrant forest-covered mountains and sweeping vineyards; so, at the very least, you’ll enjoy some breathtaking views when you arrive. However, that’s far from the only thing to look forward to in this fantastic destination. At the convergence of the two rivers you’ll find the famous Deutsches Eck (German Corner), an iconic symbol of the Unification of Germany, and along their banks you’ll find countless scenic spots to sip on local wine, alleyways leading to hidden boutiques and quaint restaurants alongside a wealth of historic landmarks to explore. In the area around Koblenz, you’ll find even more impressive castles to visit, rewarding hiking routes to adventure along, and breathtaking views of the Rhineland waiting. A modern metropolis that balances traditional, authentic experiences with the comforts of contemporary life and indulgent cuisines, Koblenz is easily a highlight on any cruise through Germany and Central Europe.
Things to do in Koblenz:
Deutsches Eck
Home to an iconic monument of Kaiser Wilhelm I, the first German Emperor, Deutsches Eck is an important tribute to his role in the Unification of Germany – while also acting as a scenic riverside spot for a variety of entertaining events and festivals to take place. Standing over 120 ft tall, the statue is an impressive sight up-close. However, from the tip of Deutsche Eck, you’ll be able to get a fantastic view of Koblenz and the rivers cutting through its core; the area is a sharp point, poking out into the converging waters of the Rhine and Moselle – a ‘junction’ that takes some skill to navigate with a river cruise ship.
Ehrenbreitstein Fortress
Built over an earlier fortress that was destroyed by the French in 1801, Ehrenbreitstein Fortress was constructed as a backbone for the regional defensive fortifications over the following three decades. Ironically, despite being built in a hotspot for French invasions over the previous centuries, it was never actually attacked. Now, part of an UNESCO World Heritage Site, the fortress houses several museums – including those exploring photography, archaeology, and regional wine-making.
Stolzenfels Castle
Once a ruined 13th century castle, which was gifted to Prussian crown prince Frederick William in 1823, Stolzenfels Castle is an impressive 19th century palace featuring Gothic Revival architecture that fosters a romantic grandeur both inside and out. A few miles from Koblenz, this palatial castle complex stands out against the vibrant green woodland with cream-coloured walls – looking as though it was plucked from a storybook. Surrounded by scenic hiking routes, this is one place worth taking the time to visit when in Koblenz.
Wine Tasting and Winery Tours
Wine and Koblenz go hand-in-hand and this city’s history with the grape-made beverage goes all the way back to the Romans, who brought their vines to the Rhineland over 2,000 years ago. On the steep slopes either side of both the Rhine and the Moselle river, vineyards soak up the sunshine to deliver local winemakers full-bodied grapes – of which, they then make excellent wines through traditional methods. If you’re looking for somewhere to sample some local wines, Koblenz is home to plenty of places to do just that. The Moselle is also home to the largest steep slope vineyard in the world, with the region famous for a fruity Riesling – something that accounts for over 60% of the wine produced in the region.
Boppard, Germany
DAY 2
25 Aug 2027
Time at Port: TBD
Our experts are preparing detailed information about this location. Please check back shortly to discover more.
Rhine Gorge, Germany
DAY 3
26 Aug 2027
Time at Port: TBD
The Rhine Gorge is a stunning stretch of the Middle Rhine Valley between Koblenz and Rüdesheim; cutting through the Renish Slate Mountains, this is easily one of the most beautiful sections of this major European river, and somewhere you’ll definitely want to savour sailing. An important trade route through the region for thousands of years, an incredible number of hilltop castles were constructed on the steep slopes of the Rhine Gorge throughout the last century – something that makes sightseeing here even more special. Although, many of these are nothing more than picturesque ruins among the vibrant woodland-laden hills and vineyard-covered slopes. While here, with a keen eye, you may also spot some flora and fauna you won’t find anywhere else in the region, thanks to the unique microclimate the Rhine Gorge’s steep slopes creates. An area intimately associated with the history of the region and folklore tales from days gone by, river cruising the Rhine Gorge is a magical experience you won’t want to miss out on.
Things to do in Rhine Gorge, Germany:
Burg Rheinfels
A half-ruinous 13th-century castle in Sankt Goar, Burg Rheinfels was once the largest fortress in the Middle Rhine Valley between Koblenz and Mainz; in fact, historically, it reportedly covered around five times the area it does now – which is already rather impressive. While some areas of the castle are ruins, others are well-preserved and used for tourism, something that gives you an interesting insight into what this fortification would have looked like once.
Burg Schönburg
First mentioned in the 10th century, Burg Schönburg is one of the oldest fortifications in the Rhine Gorge. Looming over the charming medieval town of Oberwesel, this castle was burnt down in 1689 and remained in a ruinous state until the late 19th century. Now restored, this castle is actually occupied by the Hüttl family – who also run a hotel and restaurant from the castle.
Burg Pfalzgrafenstein
Burg Pfalzgrafenstein is a unique toll castle on Falkenau Island in the Rhine, which is alongside the riverside town of Kaub. Initially established circa 1327, this fortification would collect river tolls from passing traffic – using chain booms and threatening imprisonment to enforce this – until 1867. An important fortification that has been well-preserved and faithfully restored, the white-washed walls of this unique castle help it stand out among the many fortifications in the Rhine Gorge.
Burg Rheinstein
An impressive 14th-century castle on the banks of the Rhine near Trechtingshausen, Burg Rheinstein is one of the most remarkable fortifications found along the Rhine Gorge – despite displaying rather typical medieval architecture and defensive structures. On a rocky outcrop among vibrant woodland, this castle’s courtyard is home to a Burgundy grape vine which is around 500 years old and still producing grapes.
Mainz, Germany
DAY 3
26 Aug 2027
Time at Port: TBD
Capital of the Rhineland-Palatinate state and the largest city in the region, Mainz is a cosmopolitan metropolis with something for everyone to enjoy – no matter what you’re looking for from your Central European river cruise and your time spent ashore. Offering travellers a wonderful blend of authentic Rhineland traditions and remarkable history with fresh modernity and unforgettable cultural experiences, you’ll be able to enjoy fantastic local cuisine here, indulge in wines from the region, and enjoy a welcoming atmosphere that makes exploring all-the-more exciting. An important centre of Jewish learning throughout the Middle Ages and Renaissance, while also being an important ‘fortress city’ on the Rhine, Mainz’s unique history is reflected in its incredible architecture and interesting historic cultural sites. When you couple all of this with scenic riverside walking routes and vibrant vineyard-covered hills providing a picturesque backdrop, it’s certainly one place you’ll want to return to once you continue on your adventure through Germany and Central Europe.
Things to do in Mainz, Germany:
Mainz Cathedral
Founded circa 975 AD, this remarkable Roman Catholic cathedral is a symbol of the city and – built primarily of red sandstone – is truly a sight to behold. Coupled with the second-largest diocesan museum in Germany, there’s a lot to learn about the history of Mainz and the Rhineland region from a visit to this striking structure. You’ll also find the historic Marktbrunnen fountain just outside, which – dating back to around 1525 – represents one of the first architecturally-formed decorated fountains of the renaissance.
Schloss Biebrich
Biebrich Palace, which is just north of Mainz along the river Rhine, is a staggering example of grand Baroque architecture and somewhere well worth seeing if you have the time while in Mainz. Built in 1702, with the impressive gardens realised fully over a century later in 1817, the history of this palace reflects the unique history of the Rhineland region and its ruling class.
Mainz Citadel
Constructed in 1660 and an important part of the Fortress of Mainz (a fortified garrison town in the centre of modern Mainz) from the 17th century to the early 20th century, Mainz Citadel is an impressive structure surrounded by equally-interesting historic sites. While largely used as a space for municipal offices today, you’ll find several local history museums in the surrounding area – and the Roman Drususstein Monument, a historic structure built around 9 BC.
Gutenberg Museum
One of the oldest printing museums in the world, the Gutenberg Museum is an intriguing museum dedicated to Johannes Gutenberg – an inventor credited with the creation of printing from movable metal type in Western Europe and a man known as the son of Mainz. Born circa 1400, Gutenberg’s work had an immeasurable impact on the development of culture and society throughout Europe in the following centuries, and he is easily one of the most influential figures in human history. This museum doesn’t just explore Gutenberg’s printing, though, but printing and writing techniques from a number of different cultures – which just makes it an even more interesting place to visit when in Mainz.
Heidelberg
DAY 4
27 Aug 2027
Time at Port: TBD
A stunning town on the Neckar River, Heidelberg is a picturesque cruise destination that feels plucked straight from a storybook – despite being part of the densely-populated Rhine-Neckar Metropolitan region sitting just south of Frankfurt. Home to a charming cluster of authentic cafes, boutique shops, unique museums, and an unparalleled choice of cultural and entertaining experiences, the landscape of this town is dominated by Schloss Heidelberg – an impressive 13th-century castle sat among the vibrant foliage found on the edge of the Odenwald Forest. Heidelberg is also home to Germany’s oldest university, an important institution that has influenced the development of this town over hundreds of years – and something that means you’ll find quite a few cosy student bars among the must-visit venues in Heidelberg Old Town. In the nearby village of Handschuhsheim, across the river, you’ll also find Heidelberg Zoo and some of the most picturesque hiking routes in the region – if you’re looking for something a little different. However you spend your time ashore, you can rest assured knowing there will be something interesting to occupy your time and verdant scenery worth savouring.
Things to do in Heidelberg:
Heidelberg Castle
Among the most important Renaissance structures north of the Alps, Heidelberg Castle is a 13th century fortification on the edge of Heidelberg worth taking the time to explore. An impressive demonstration of the status of this region’s rulers for hundreds of years, the castle complex here is enchanting – and, interestingly, home to the world’s largest barrel. In its heyday, it rivalled the grandeur and splendor of any other Central European castle, and the echoes of that can still be felt and seen today.
Studentenkarzer
Studentenkarzer is a former student prison attached to the back of Heidelberg’s Old University and an interesting museum exploring the unique student culture that developed in this river-side town, while also being a testament to Heidelberg’s rich academic history and the evolution of its disciplinary practices. Imprisoning students here for a number of ‘gentleman’s offences’ from 1778 to 1914, you’ll find many of the walls ‘decorated’ with the ‘art’ of those punished and an interesting insight into this often unseen aspect of student life throughout the late 18th, 19th, and early 20th centuries.
Sammlung Prinzhorn
If you’re looking for a truly unique museum experience, Sammlung Prinzhorn promises to deliver a memorable moment when in Heidelberg. A stone’s throw from the river, and among an abundance of interesting places to visit, Sammlung Prinzhorn sits as a museum for historical and contemporary artwork from psychiatric institutions in the region. With aesthetic conventions often built upon or ignored, the artwork here is among the most unique out there; a collection of over 20,000 works, there’s a lot of interesting art to see here.
Strasbourg
DAY 5
28 Aug 2027
Time at Port: TBD
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.
Things to do in Strasbourg:
Château Musée Vodou
Château Musée Vodou is a museum that’s home to the largest collection of West African voodoo objects in the world, making it one of the most intriguing – and somewhat unsettling – places to visit when in Strasbourg. Found within a water tower dating back to 1878, this museum boasts a collection of over 1,000 pieces, and invites you to explore them through both permanent and temporary exhibitions. An enigmatic African religion characterised by animism and the balance between the seen and the unseen world, your curiosity will certainly be piqued when pondering the unique objects here.
Strasbourg Cathedral
Among the finest surviving examples of Rayonnant Gothic architecture, despite the fact that much of the structure itself retains the Romanesque style of the century prior to its completion, Strasbourg Cathedral is an impressive Catholic cathedral dominating the historic heart of this remarkable city. Completed in 1439, it was actually thought of as the world’s tallest building between 1647 and 1874, standing an impressive 466 ft tall. A structure that can be seen for miles among the otherwise ‘short’ buildings of Strasbourg’s Old Town, you won’t want to miss the chance to marvel at this magnificent landmark.
Place Kléber
The largest historic square in Strasbourg, Place Kléber is the beating heart of this city’s commercial area and an important feature of Grande Île – Strasbourg’s Old Town. Here, you’ll find a unique blend of boutique shopping experiences and modern retail stores alongside cafes and restaurants to enjoy; and, you will also be a stone’s throw from landmark locations like Strasbourg Cathedral, Palais Rohan, and more.
Colmar
DAY 5
28 Aug 2027
Time at Port: TBD
Just a short distance from the Rhine, in the heart of France’s Alsace region, you’ll find the town of Colmar: a breathtakingly beautiful river cruise destination overflowing with charming cafes, fascinating medieval buildings, plenty of places to sample local wines, a unique culinary scene, and picturesque places you’ll want to spend time savouring. You’ll also find a unique blend of French and German culture here, with the Alsace region having passed between the two nations numerous times over the centuries prior to the Second World War. This is also reflected in the architecture, with the half-timbered houses also a popular feature throughout the Rhineland, and the food you’ll find here. So, spending some time exploring the boutique shopping experiences, local wine bars, charming cafes, and restaurants in Colmar is always worthwhile. If, though, you’re looking for something a little more outdoorsy, you’ll find Colmar surrounded by picturesque places to walk and hike, with rolling vineyards in the distance and stunning riverside scenery to admire. Whatever type of traveller you are, you’re in for a treat when it comes to visiting Colmar.
Things to do in Colmar:
Statue de la Liberté
This 12-metre tall resin statue is a replica of the iconic Statue of Liberty, sculpted and erected as part of the commemorations of the centenary of Frederic Auguste Bartholdi’s death – a Colmar native and one of the architects of the Statue of Liberty. Honouring his work and paying tribute to his art, this is certainly one way to see the statue up-close – with the original over 90m tall.
Musée Bartholdi (Bartholdi Museum)
A museum dedicated to Colmar native Frederic Auguste Bartholdi, a French sculptor and painter best-known for designing the Statue of Liberty, Musée Bartholdi is a must-visit destination in Colmar for anyone interested in artwork. Located in the artist’s birthplace, this museum will give you an insight into his life and relationship with the world through his early works, sculptures, and more.
Musée Unterlinden (Unterlinden Museum)
Housed in the former Dominican convent Unter den Linden, which was built in the 13th century, Musée Unterlinden is an impressive art museum with objects from as early as the Neolithic period right up until the present day. Home to the world-renowned Isenheim Altarpiece by Matthias Grünewald – a piece consisting of 11 painted panels and numerous carved figures depicting the Crucifixion of Jesus Christ among other religious imagery – this museum is a feast for the eyes and somewhere worth visiting.
Château du Hohlandsbourg (Hohlandsbourg Castle)
On a mountain summit just a short drive from Colmar itself, Château du Hohlandsbourg stands. An impressive 13th century garrison stronghold with a storied history, this castle boasts incredible panoramic views of the region from its battlements and surrounding grounds; in fact, on a clear day, you can even spot the spire of Strasbourg Cathedral over 80 km away! One of the largest fortifications in the region, exploring this restored castle is always a delight – and, if you visit on the right day, you may even come across one of the numerous events staged here throughout the summer months.
Rudesheim
DAY 6
29 Aug 2027
Time at Port: TBD
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.
Things to do in Rudesheim:
Drosselgasse
A narrow cobblestone street cutting through the heart of Rüdesheim, Drosselgasse is overflowing with charming wine taverns, incredible restaurants, boutique gift shops, and more. Busy with people filtering into and in-between the half-timbered buildings here, this otherwise unassuming street promises a lively atmosphere anytime and is the perfect place to fully immerse yourself in the excitement Rüdesheim has to offer.
Niederwald Monument
Just a short distance outside of Rüdesheim itself, the Niederwald Monuments stands; built between 1871 and 1883, with the first brick being laid by Kaiser Wilhelm I, this monument is a dramatic celebration of the Unification of Germany – a process which started in 1866 and ended in 1871, just months before construction started. Towering over the Rhine Valley at 125 ft tall, the monument features the iconic Germania – a personification of a united Germany, similar to Great Britain’s Britannia – with the recovered crown and Imperial Sword. Sitting at the edge of a forest, on the crest of an elevated hill, this is one of the most picturesque spots in the area and boasts sensational views of the surrounding scenery. It’s also an important reminder of this nation’s unique history, something easily forgotten when relishing in the indulgent cuisine, wines, and beers that make Germany such a memorable destination.
Rheingau Wine Museum and Brömserburg Castle
One of the oldest fortifications along the Rhine, with sections of the castle dating back to the 11th century, Brömserburg Castle is a truly fascinating landmark in Rüdesheim. It was once a fortification for the Prince-Bishops of Mainz, then a residence for the Knights of Rüdesheim and the Brömsers – playing an active role in major regional conflicts like the Thirty Years’ War. Now, though, it’s the perfect place to learn more about the region’s military history and the Rhine Valley’s history of wine – and sampling some of the local blends, of course. From wine-making equipment dating back as far as the 16th century to antique wine glasses and more, this museum is a comprehensive exploration of every aspect of Oenology. And, from Brömserburg Castle, you’ll enjoy breathtaking views of the vineyard-blanketed Rhine Valley. When in Rüdesheim, this really is a must-visit destination.
Cologne - Overnight onboard
DAY 7-8
30 Aug 2027
Time at Port: TBD
A charming, inspiring German city sitting on the Rhine river, Cologne is a culture-rich cruise destination boasting an inviting, lively atmosphere, a host of modern attractions and activities, impressive historic landmarks, and a culinary experience you’ll want to spend some time savouring. If you’re looking to take a trip ashore with some medieval flair, Cologne’s remarkable Old Town is bound to charm you with its winding cobblestone streets, picturesque squares tucked away from the hustle and bustle, and abundance of authentic cafes, restaurants, bars, and breweries. When here, you’ll find yourself in the shadows of the breathtaking Cologne Cathedral – the tallest cathedral in the world and this city’s most iconic landmark. Don’t worry, though, you’re not going to be limited to an experience inspired by the Middle Ages when you’re in Cologne; the reformed and rebuilt Rheinauhafen district is a highlight of the modern delights throughout the city and a focal point for state-of-the-art architecture. Once an important harbour on the river, you’ll find a variety of interesting historic structures and sites here; however, you’ll also find unique museums, stylish cafes, some of the finest restaurants in the city, and fantastic views along the Rhine. A city of contrasts, with both the historic and modern charms of Cologne equally exciting, there’s one universal truth when it comes to visiting this remarkable city: you’re going to have a fantastic time, whatever you decide to do when you’re ashore.
Things to do in Cologne - Overnight onboard:
Cologne Cathedral
A renowned monument of German Catholicism and Gothic architecture, Cologne Cathedral is the tallest Cathedral in the world and Germany’s most-visited landmark by a comfortable margin. While construction on the cathedral began in 1248, the impressive structure we see today was not actually fully completed until 1880 – and it remained standing despite multiple aerial attacks during the Second World War, being an easily navigable target for Allied aircraft due to its height. Home to a variety of treasures and unique artworks, this is undoubtedly a must-visit destination in Cologne.
Basilica of St. Cunibert
The last Romanesque church built in Cologne before construction of Cologne Cathedral, the Basilica of St. Cunibert is an impressive example of this secular architecture and among the most impressive sights you can see from the Rhine as you pass through the city. Badly damaged throughout the Second World War, this structure was faithfully reconstructed and restored throughout the second half of the 20th century; however, many of the 13th century stained-glass windows still survive to this day – which is quite the feat.
Flora Botanical Garden
A historic greenspace in the heart of Cologne, the Flora Botanical Garden in the heart of Cologne is a relaxing destination to spend some time that dates back to 1863 and features an impressive orangery inspired by the Crystal Palace in London and Paris’ Jardin d’hiver – something which gives this area a unique grandeur unlike anything else in the city. Cultivating nearly 10,000 types of plants, a world of flora awaits in this picturesque part of the city.
Flight departs
DAY 8
Time at Port: TBD
Say goodbye to your current destination, for it’s time to head somewhere new! Flight information will be available closer to your embarkation date, but this will be when you’re hopping on a plane to continue your adventure – be that travelling somewhere new, or heading home.
Select your departure airport
If you are looking for an airport not available in the list below or want to make changes to your flights, please give us a call: 0203 848 3113