Castles & Vineyards of the Rhine & Moselle 2027

Begin your European adventure in the vibrant Swiss city of Basel, renowned for its thriving art scene and picturesque setting along the Rhine River. After settling into your luxurious 5-star Scenic Space-Ship, you’ll have the opportunity to meet fellow travelers and toast to the journey ahead during a delightful welcome reception. Enjoy the comfort of your floating hotel (Scenic Space-Ship or similar) as you prepare for the days of exploration and cultural discovery that await.

Awaken in Breisach, a charming town nestled between the Rhine and the Black Forest, celebrated for its culinary delights and fine wines. Today, you can choose from a variety of immersive excursions: savor the flavors of the Kaiserstuhl wine region, wander the enchanting canals and medieval streets of Colmar, or explore the vibrant university city of Freiburg with its iconic cathedral. Alternatively, journey to the majestic Château du Haut-Kœnigsbourg, a fortress steeped in centuries of history. Return to your ship for a relaxing evening, reflecting on the day’s discoveries.

After a leisurely morning on board, arrive in Rastatt, a gateway to the lush Black Forest and the elegant spa town of Baden-Baden. Choose to stroll through Baden-Baden’s grand boulevards and historic baths, visit the ornate Schloss Favorite palace, or delve into the military history of Fort Schoenenbourg on the Maginot Line. Alternatively, discover the Franco-German charm of Strasbourg, with its stunning cathedral and picturesque canals. Enjoy the blend of relaxation and exploration before returning to your luxurious accommodation.

Arrive in the enchanting town of Rüdesheim, surrounded by centuries-old vineyards and filled with half-timbered houses and bustling taverns. Today’s adventures include a visit to Siegfried’s Musikkabinett Museum, where you’ll marvel at a collection of mechanical musical instruments, or a guided hike through the rolling vineyards followed by a scenic cable car ride to the Niederwald Monument. Enjoy the lively atmosphere of this wine town before returning to your comfortable river cruise accommodation.

Step into a storybook setting in Cochem, a medieval town adorned with pastel buildings and crowned by the majestic Reichsburg Castle. Choose between a guided walking tour through the castle’s storied halls and the charming streets below, or embark on a scenic cycling adventure along the Moselle River, passing through the picturesque villages of Valwig and Beilstein. Enjoy the fairytale ambiance and the warm hospitality of this riverside gem.

Discover the timeless beauty of Bernkastel, where medieval architecture and the renowned Bernkasteler Doctor vineyard await. Enjoy a guided stroll through the atmospheric market square, sample exquisite Moselle wines at a local winery, or hike up to the historic Landshut Castle for panoramic views. In the evening, experience a magical private classical concert in Trier’s UNESCO-listed Liebfrauenkirche, surrounded by stunning stained glass and centuries of history. Return to your ship for a restful night after this unforgettable cultural immersion.

Immerse yourself in the rich history of Koblenz, a city where the Rhine and Moselle rivers converge. Join a guided walk through the Old Town, visiting the lively Florinsmarkt and admiring centuries-old architecture, or venture to the fairy-tale Burg Eltz, a castle nestled deep in the forest. Alternatively, travel to the medieval town of Limburg an der Lahn to explore its cobbled streets and impressive cathedral. For the active, a guided cycling tour along the scenic riverbanks offers a unique perspective of this storied region. Return to your ship for a final evening of camaraderie and comfort.

Conclude your unforgettable journey in Mainz, a city celebrated for its Roman heritage, vibrant university life, and the striking Mainz Cathedral. After a final breakfast on board, bid farewell to your fellow travelers and the dedicated crew, departing with cherished memories of Europe’s most scenic river valleys and historic towns.