Trip Reports
Duration
5 Nights
Journey Type
Cruise only (Please call for flight options)
Ports
6 Ports
22 December
Setting sail from Frankfurt
Frankfurt is the financial heart of Germany, a forest of silver skyscrapers that's home to both the German and European Central Banks. This focus on commerce has led some to dismiss the city as a dull, soulless sort of place, but in fact Frankfurt buzzes with a real cultural vibrancy; don't miss the Städel Museum, home to works by the likes of Picasso and Rembrandt, or the excellent MMK Museum of Modern Art. Frankfurt is also great fun after dark, and we recommend sampling the lively restaurants and Apfelwein bars of Sachsenhausen.
Don't miss
Sachsenhausen for the relaxed vibe and the best cider.
23 December
Germany: Mannheim
Situated near the confluence of the Rhine and Neckar rivers, Mannheim is an important industrial centre with a lively cultural scene. It’s also conveniently located for exploring the pretty town of Heidelberg and the wine growing region around Nierstein.
24 December
France: Strasbourg
Strasbourg is the capital of France’s Alsace region, right next to the border with Germany, and there is a tangible Germanic influence that sets the city a little apart from the rest of France. Highlights include the beautiful Gothic cathedral, the old town’s fairytale half-timbered houses, and the pictureque canals of the Petite France district.
25 December
Germany: Speyer
Hugging the river Rhine to the south of Frankfurt, the pleasant little town of Speyer has a long and distinguished history. This was one of the Holy Roman Empire’s most important cities, as evidenced by the beautiful Romanesque cathedral, and is also home to a delightful Christmas market during the winter months.
26 December
Germany: Rüdesheim
The pretty little town of Rüdesheim, situated on a bend in the Rhine surrounded by vineyards, is a popular destination for travellers looking for a slice of quintessentially German village life. The Drosselgasse, a narrow cobbled lane flanked by old timber frame buildings, is particularly atmospheric.
27 December
Arriving in Cologne
Cologne is a wonderfully warm and welcoming city, its skyline dominated by one of the most beautiful Gothic cathedrals in Europe. It's also been here a very long time; although much of the city suffered heavy damage during the Second World War, you can still see remnants of the old Roman walls. You will likely spend most of your time in the attractive Altstadt (Old Town), home to beer halls aplenty and some fascinating museums.
Our tip
Cross the river to the right bank for the very best views of the city.
Riverside Ravel and Debussy
These identical ‘Rhine Class’ vessels offer a welcoming range of lounges and facilities, with spacious and beautifully decorated suites.
What we love
The Riverside Luxury Cruises experience is defined by comfort, space, fine cuisine and service and these ships have all of these hallmarks and so much more. Contemporary, light-filled suites shine and allow for an unforgettable and refined luxury river cruise.
| capacity | 110 |
|---|---|
| style | Modern elegance with personalised service and large windows throughout to really take in the beautiful scenery as you meander down the river. |
| inclusions |
|
| year built | 2018 (Riverside Ravel & Debussy) |
| length | 443 feet |
| breadth | 36 feet |
Tailor-make your trip
Ways to make it better
Extend your stay in Frankfurt
We think that the historic Villa Kennedy is an interesting place to stay.
Our favourite hotel in Cologne
The Hotel im Wasserturm – yes, your German is correct, it really is a former water tower.
