Moselle & North Rhine Discovery from Frankfurt, 11 July 2027 (14 nights)

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.

Cochem is a stunning German town on the Moselle River, known historically as being an important wine trading centre in the Rhineland, and more recently as a fascinating river cruise destination dominated by an imposing 11th century castle. Although, that isn’t the only sight worth seeing when it comes to Cochem; here, you’ll find a vibrant riverside promenade boasting a variety of charming cafes, bustling bars, and restaurants with rich culinary experiences to enjoy alongside a historic town square, luscious forest-covered rolling hills, and more to explore. Either side of the Moselle River, you’ll also find rewarding hiking routes leading up to scenic vantage points, making this an ideal destination for anyone looking to stretch their legs and explore the natural beauty of the region by foot. With a truly charming atmosphere and numerous interesting historical sites to explore alongside the opportunity to relish in authentic regional cuisine, Cochem is a river cruise destination worth looking forward to and somewhere you’ll remember for a long time to come.

Bernkastel, or rather Bernkastel-Kues, is a charming German town on the Moselle River. What were once twin villages either side of this waterway, this unique river cruise destination boasts a fantastic blend of historic marketplaces and half-timbered houses (which you’ll find on the traditionally Bernkastel side of the river) with modern conveniences and contemporary cultural experiences (which you’ll find on the traditionally Kues side of the river). While you’ll likely want to spend most of your time soaking up the incredible atmosphere of Bernkastel, with its enchanting cafes and interesting historic landmarks, there’s something for everyone to enjoy here – thanks to Kues’ delightful selection of more modern bars and restaurants. If you venture through Kues, you’ll find the Skywalk Kurpark Bernkastel-Kues; an observation platform boasting breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding scenery, this is one of the best places in the region to admire the landscape. Venturing further afield will take you to vineyard-covered hills with even more exceptional views, but you won’t have to go quite so far if you’re looking to sample the local wines. An incredible destination on the Moselle River, and somewhere where there’s something for everyone to enjoy, every visit to Bernkastel (and Kues) is a memorable one.

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.

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.

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

The largest port in Europe, Rotterdam had much of its extensive history destroyed during the second World War, but you'll find glimpses into the past through fascinating museums and architecture. For shopping, bars and restaurants head to the Markthal, a unique building with plenty to enjoy. Meanwhile, families will love Rotterdam Zoo, as well as the Euromast Tower which provides stunning views across the city.

On the shores of the stunning Veerse Meer, a large lagoon in Zeeland, sits Veere: a delightful historic town overflowing with interesting sights, boutique shopping opportunities, delicious local cuisine, and rewarding shore experiences. Boasting a charming town centre full of buildings dating back to the 15th and 16th centuries, you’ll be transported into the past when wandering the streets here – with local history museums and unique fortifications adding to the experience. And, when you want to take a break from that, the waterfront – which is never too far from the quaint shops and markets of Veere – is an attractive place to relax and rest. While being an ideal destination for those after a laid-back shore experience, those of you looking for a more active onshore experience won’t be disappointed. The usually-calm waters of Veerse Meer are ideal for a variety of watersports, and the surrounding countryside can be explored easily on foot and by bicycle. With a population of just 1,500 in the town itself, you’ll never feel rushed off your feet and crowded in Veere; however, you’ll also never feel bored. The welcoming locals only enhance the relaxing atmosphere fostered here, ensuring every visit is rewarding – no matter what type of traveller you are.

From stunning architecture and intriguing museums to charming cafes and bustling bars, Antwerp is one Belgian city worth exploring when you arrive along the Scheldt. Home to rich cultural experiences and a vibrant atmosphere, this city is buzzing with things to see and do; there will be something every type of traveller can enjoy in Antwerp. If you’re someone who wants to stroll the cobblestone streets soaking in the sights, stopping to sample some local sweet treats or sip on a regional beer brewed mere minutes away, Antwerp is the perfect place to do just that with an incredible historic city centre. And, those looking for a more concentrated cultural experience will find a variety of world-class museums and art galleries to explore, whether you’re looking for galleries overflowing with contemporary art, exhibits on Antwerp’s modern history, an exploration of the history of printing, or even a war museum that’s set within a former bunker! If, though, you’re someone who would rather avoid the crowds, you’ll never be too far away from a park in Antwerp; this city is home to an abundance of green spaces, with some of the most impressive surrounding remarkable palaces and castles. That’s far from everything Antwerp has to offer though, and the options are near-endless when it comes to the shore experiences available here. From intimate brewery tours and indulgent shopping sprees to finding hidden fortifications and tucking into freshly-baked pastries, there’s something for everyone in this vibrant city.

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