This is a guest post from Laura Wright, she’s going to talk about some of the great destinations along the river Rhine. Take it away Laura…
If you are thinking of a different option for your holiday, have you considered a European river cruise? There is something very magical about coasting along some of the continent’s most famous rivers and seeing the sites from such a unique perspective.
The splendid Rhine
Koblenz in Germany
Running for nearly 800 miles though Switzerland, Germany and the Netherlands, the Rhine is one of the most majestic waterways in Europe with a fascinating history. Mementoes of its long story are in evidence along its banks in the form of old ruins, farmland beauty and beautiful cities.
Discover Rhine on a cruise with breathtaking vistas and stops at charming towns en route. Here we run through some of the fantastic highlights you can find along the way.
Dutch delights
Many Rhine river cruises set off in Amsterdam; one of Europe’s most beautiful cities. With a few hours to spare before pulling anchor, you can visit one of the city’s excellent museums or art galleries, enjoy a stroll around the centre or, for a taste of history, visit Anne Frank’s House.
One of the most stunning sights in Holland is Kinderdijk, an intricate network of windmills and flood management mechanisms. A river cruise will likely take in this UNESCO World Heritage Site where you can take a tour of the windmills and learn about their history.
German wonders
Castle on the Rhine
The Rhine is dotted with countless striking towns and cities as it travels through Germany.
Cologne is a popular stop for a river cruise with its famous Gothic cathedral, the Dom and a vibrant dockside shopping area.
Further along the river is the 700-year-old Marksburg Castle which also incorporates a museum.
One of the highlights of a Rhine river cruise has to be Heidelberg. Its sandstone castle, although in ruins, creates a picturesque view high above the river and the town is also home to Germany’s oldest university.
The scenic Black Forest is also a popular spot for visitors along the Rhine with a scenic tour included in many river cruises. Get out for some fresh air!
Swiss beauty
Danube in Hungary
The charming Swiss city Basel marks the end of a cruise along the Rhine although there is always the option to explore nearby Lucerne for a few days.
Other European river cruises explore the Danube and Elbe passing through historic countries such as Hungary, Austria and the Czech Republic while those with a taste for southern climes can explore France and Portugal by river too.
{ 0 comments… add one now }