Upper Rhine Splendours river cruise from Mainz, 23 May 2027 (7 nights)

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.

Sitting just across the Rhine from the French city of Strasbourg, Kehl is a charming German town boasting modern amenities, plenty of idyllic places to take a stroll, and more than enough authentic cafes and restaurants for you to enjoy when you arrive. With fewer than 40,000 residents, Kehl will never feel busy; but, as a small city surrounded by beautiful landscapes littered with branching waterways from the Rhine, there’s still a buzz about this place. It’s something of a hidden gem along the river Rhine, and somewhere where you won’t need to worry too much about tourist traps and the pressure of ticking major landmarks off your sightseeing travel wish list. However, its location on the French-German border has afforded it a rather interesting history – it’s spent time as a French territory more than once over the centuries, with it technically being a suburb of Strasbourg as late as 1953!

An intriguing river cruise destination known for being an industrial hotspot where some of the world’s most important inventions originated, Mannheim – a vibrant ‘chessboard’ city with streets and avenues laid out in a strict grid formation – sits between the Rhine and Neckar rivers, on the border of the Rhineland-Palatinate state and a bridge away from Ludwigshafen. Being home to the first commercial automobile, the modern bicycle, and the first crude oil tractor, among many other things, Mannheim’s reputation as the city of inventors is explored throughout its fascinating selection of museums and culturally significant sites. With the University of Mannheim also considered the ‘Harvard of Germany’, that’s unlikely to change anytime soon; and, this is something that exemplifies the cutting-edge modernity you’ll find as you explore this incredible city – both technologically and culturally. Whether you’re looking to explore the high arts, the sensational cuisine, or the fascinating history of Mannheim of the wider Baden-Württemberg state, this city is well-equipped to cater to you. And, much like any other city on the Rhine, you’ll find idyllic riverside routes to stroll along just a short distance from the city centre. So, however you want to spend your time in Mannheim, you can rest assured knowing it will be a rewarding experience.