River cruises are very popular – and the Rhine is one of the most beautiful rivers in Europe to experience such a journey. With a perfect combination of comfort, breathtaking scenery and cultural highlights, a river cruise on the Rhine offers an ideal opportunity to leave everyday life behind and discover fascinating places at the same time.
The Rhine
The Rhine stretches over a total length of around 1,233 kilometers. The source of the Rhine lies in the Swiss Alps in the canton of Graubünden. Two headwaters rise there: the Vorderrhein and the Hinterrhein. Both unite at Reichenau to form the main current of the Alpine Rhine, which flows through the Rhine Valley and finally reaches Lake Constance.
After Lake Constance, the High Rhine flows through Switzerland and in places forms the border with Germany. The Upper Rhine begins at Basel. This now flows northwards through a broad plain. From Bingen, the Rhine flows through the Middle Rhine Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its steep vineyards and castles. From Bonn, the Lower Rhine begins, stretching through flat terrain all the way to the Netherlands. Finally, the Rhine splits into a branching delta and flows into the North Sea near Rotterdam.
Some ports for river cruises on the Rhine
River cruises on the Rhine are characterized by varied destinations that offer both cultural highlights and picturesque landscapes. Some ports along the Rhine are frequently visited by river cruise ships, as they can offer holidaymakers an interesting program.
Basel (Switzerland)
Basel is one of the main starting or end points for many river cruises on the Rhine. The city offers a charming old town, interesting museums and is located on the border with Germany and France – an ideal starting point for trips through Europe.
Strasbourg (France)
The port of Strasbourg is a popular destination for river cruises. The city in Alsace impresses with its historic old town, Strasbourg Cathedral and the “La Petite France” district.
Cologne (Germany)
Cologne is one of the most visited ports on the Rhine. The city is known for the imposing Cologne Cathedral and the lively old town. Cologne is also often used as a stopover or starting point for cruises on the Lower Rhine.
Rüdesheim am Rhein (Germany)
The small wine town of Rüdesheim is a popular stop for river cruises. The Drosselgasse in particular, the regional wines and the proximity to the Loreley make this port a highlight in the Middle Rhine Valley.
Koblenz (Germany)
Koblenz is located at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers and is an important port of call for river cruises. The “Deutsches Eck”, Ehrenbreitstein Fortress and the old town are particularly worth seeing here.
Amsterdam (Netherlands)
Amsterdam, often the start or end point of many Rhine cruises, is located in the Rhine-Meuse Delta. On a trip to the city, you can discover the famous canals, museums such as the Van Gogh Museum and the rRjksmuseum.
Rotterdam (Netherlands)
Rotterdam, one of the largest ports in Europe, is frequently visited by river cruise ships. In addition to the modern architecture and the port itself, Rotterdam is a perfect starting point for excursions in the region.
Why is a river cruise on the Rhine worthwhile?
A cruise on the Rhine combines relaxation and the joy of discovery in a unique way. The floating hotel travels from one sight to the next. At the same time, you can enjoy a relaxed atmosphere, first-class service and often culinary delights on board, while the picturesque landscape slowly drifts past the ship.
Travel on the Rhine
A river cruise to Holland during the tulip blossom season is an unforgettable experience. The gentle journey on the Rhine reveals a picturesque landscape and stops at exciting cities. The world-famous Keukenhof is the heart of the tulip blossom in the Netherlands and of course the highlight of the trip.
Who hasn't heard the song “Tulips from Amsterdam...”. Close to the metropolis is the Keukenhof, certainly the most famous place in the country to experience the tulip blossom.
The Rhein Melodie is part of the fleet of the renowned shipping company nicko cruises. It offers travelers the opportunity to enjoy the fascinating landscape of the Rhine. The river cruise ship combines modern comfort with a relaxed and stylish atmosphere that appeals to both experienced cruise guests and newcomers alike.