8-Day Rhine & Moselle River Cruise Tour Itinerary
Overview
Experience the majestic beauty of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers, where historic cities, fairytale castles, and vineyard-covered valleys create an unforgettable journey. From Cologne to the breathtaking Rhine Gorge, charming wine villages, and medieval Trier, this cruise reveals the finest landscapes of Germany from the most privileged vantage point.
Explore historic half-timbered towns, visit UNESCO-listed sites, and discover the ancient Roman wonders of Trier before cruising back through the picturesque Moselle Valley. With expert-led city tours, gourmet dining, and luxury accommodations aboard your 5-star river cruise ship, this is the ultimate way to experience Europe’s most romantic waterways.
What’s Included
✔ Luxury Cruise Accommodation – 7-night stay on a 5-star river cruise ship, with spacious cabins, en-suite bathrooms, and elegant dining areas.
✔ Meals Included – Breakfasts: 7, Lunches: 6, Dinners: 7, including a Captain’s Gala Dinner.
✔ Flights & Transfers – Round-trip international flights, airport transfers, and Eurostar option available.
✔ Excursions & Guided Tours – Expert-led city tours in Cologne, Koblenz, Trier, Cochem, Bernkastel, and Rüdesheim.
✔ Onboard Activities – Live music, wine tastings, cultural insights, and relaxing Sun Deck experiences.
✔ All Entrance Fees & Taxes – Admission to all scheduled attractions included.
✔ 24/7 English-Speaking Crew & Guides – Professional and attentive staff ensuring a seamless journey.
Itinerary Details
DAY 1: ARRIVAL IN COLOGNE
- Arrive in Düsseldorf or Cologne, or take the Eurostar from London to Brussels.
- Transfer to your luxury 5-star river cruise ship, moored in the heart of Cologne, one of Germany’s oldest cities.
- Welcome dinner onboard as you begin your Rhine & Moselle adventure. (D)
DAY 2: COCHEM – WINE & CASTLES ON THE MOSELLE
- Wake up to stunning river views as you cruise through the scenic Moselle Valley.
- Arrive in Cochem, a quintessential German wine town, known for its half-timbered houses and vineyards.
- Visit Reichsburg Castle, a multi-turreted fortress crowning the town.
- Free time to wander through charming streets and enjoy a wine tasting at a traditional wine cellar. (B,L,D)
DAY 3: TRIER – ROMAN HERITAGE & HISTORY
- Sail through winding river bends and picturesque vineyards.
- Arrive in Trier, Germany’s oldest city, founded by the Romans over 2,000 years ago.
- Guided tour of Trier, including:
- Porta Nigra, the massive Roman city gate.
- The impressive Roman Amphitheatre.
- The beautifully preserved Imperial Roman Baths.
- Free time to explore Trier’s medieval streets and historic squares. (B,L,D)
DAY 4: BERNKASTEL – FAIRYTALE STREETS & RIESLING WINE
- Spend the morning exploring Bernkastel, a picturesque medieval town on the Moselle.
- Wander through cobbled streets lined with half-timbered houses dating back to the 15th century.
- Visit the famous Pointed House, an architectural masterpiece.
- Afternoon at leisure as the cruise glides downstream through the Moselle Valley. (B,L,D)
DAY 5: KOBLENZ & BOPPARD – THE PEARL OF THE RHINE
- Morning guided tour of Koblenz, where the Rhine and Moselle Rivers meet.
- Explore historic squares, old city walls, and the mighty Ehrenbreitstein Fortress.
- Afternoon in Boppard, a charming riverside town known for its medieval architecture.
- Free time to wander the promenade or visit a traditional Weinstube (wine tavern). (B,L,D)
DAY 6: THE RHINE GORGE & RÜDESHEIM
- Cruise through the UNESCO-listed Rhine Gorge, home to:
- Towering vineyard-clad hills and dramatic castle ruins.
- The legendary Lorelei Rock, where sirens were said to lure sailors.
- Arrive in Rüdesheim, a vibrant wine town famous for its Drosselgasse alley filled with lively bars.
- Optional visit to the Asbach Brandy Distillery or ride the gondola for spectacular river views.
- Enjoy the Captain’s Gala Dinner, celebrating the culinary traditions of the Rhine. (B,L,D)
DAY 7: COLOGNE – A GOTHIC MASTERPIECE
- Sail back to Cologne, passing through the scenic Rhine landscapes.
- Guided walking tour of Cologne, featuring:
- The iconic Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site with intricate stained glass windows.
- Cologne’s historic Old Town, with charming squares and medieval streets.
- Free time to visit local breweries, museums, or indulge in traditional German cuisine. (B,L,D)
DAY 8: RETURN HOME
- Bid farewell to your crew and fellow travelers.
- Transfer to the airport for your return flight or to Brussels for the Eurostar back to London. (B)
Why Choose This Cruise?
✅ Sail Two of Europe’s Most Scenic Rivers – Cruise the Rhine & Moselle, passing fairytale castles and vineyard-covered hills.
✅ Explore Europe’s Most Beautiful Towns – Visit Cologne, Koblenz, Trier, Bernkastel, Cochem, and Rüdesheim.
✅ Witness the UNESCO-Listed Rhine Gorge – Sail through Germany’s most breathtaking natural landscapes.
✅ Indulge in Local Specialties – Enjoy regional wines, gourmet meals, and an exclusive Captain’s Gala Dinner.
✅ Enjoy Exclusive Guided Tours – Expert-led city tours, including Roman Trier, historic Koblenz, and medieval Bernkastel.
✅ Luxury & Comfort Onboard – Stay in a 5-star floating hotel, with elegant accommodations and world-class service.
A Timeless Journey Along the Rhine & Moselle Awaits! 🚢🍷
📅 Book Now for an Unforgettable River Cruise Experience! 🏰🌊
