The Complete Rhine
With fairytale-esque scenes of beautiful valleys and famous vineyards awaiting discovery, as well as a string of historic, culture-rich towns and cities, a fortnight-long exploration of the Rhine makes for an inspirational, simply unforgettable discovery of the river’s greatest sights and highlights. [ReadMoreMob]
Meet Brabant in Cologne and sail the Rhine to Königswinter, gateway to historic Hotel Petersberg and Schloss Drachenburg, before diverting into the Moselle, to discover the castles of Cochem, the wine taverns of Bernkastel-Kues and the Moselle Valley’s gorgeous countryside scenery. Back on the Rhine, you head to Braubach, not only to see majestic Marksburg Castle lit up at night, but for a chance to explore Marksburg’s medieval history by day too. Then, after admiring countless castles, steep vineyards and the fabled towering rock of Lorelei in the Rhine Gorge, there’s a visit to Rüdesheim, renowned for its historic sites and for producing some of Germany’s best wines, which are yours to sample in the town’s taverns.
Continuing your absorbing journey, it’s on to medieval Mainz and Worms before heading to the French city of Strasbourg. You’ve a full-day to explore Strasbourg’s UNESCO-listed centre, on foot via its cobbled streets and on boat tours of the city’s canals; delights such as exquisite Cathédrale Notre-Dame and Petite France await discovery. Back across the French-German border, there’s a full day in Speyer too; you can wander the town’s beautiful heart and seek-out the impressive four-spire, twin domed St Stephen’s Cathedral. The following morning you’ll wake to views of the Middle Rhine Valley’s towns, fortresses and vineyards before arriving in Koblenz. Docking close to the famous ‘Deutsches Eck’ in Koblenz makes it easy to visit the mighty Ehrenbreitstein Fortress via cable car, discover the Prussian Electoral Palace and much more. Finally, you visit Bonn, birthplace of Beethoven and home to many attractions dedicated to the great composer, as well as a number of sites exhibiting the city’s rich history, from Roman artefacts to World War II landmarks.
Itinerary
Day | Destination |
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Day 1 |
Cologne, Germany |
Cologne, Germany
Situated on the Rhine River in the centre of the Rhine-Rhur region, charming Cologne is the beating heart of the beautiful Rhineland. Originally founded over 2,000 years ago by the Ubii tribe, Cologne was once the largest city in the Holy Roman Empire and served as a major trade route throughout the...
Day 2 |
Königswinter, Germany |
Königswinter, Germany
The pretty resort city of Königswinter – situated on the east bank of the beautiful Rhine River, just a short sail south from Bonn – is the gateway to one of Germany’s oldest and most beautiful nature reserves, the Siebengebirge hill range. Around 30 gorgeous lush-green hills...
Day 3 |
Cochem, Germany |
Cochem, Germany
Although small, the fairytale-esque German town of Cochem is sure to make a big impression. Situated within the breathtaking Moselle Valley on one of the winding Moselle River’s seemingly endless hairpin bends, Cochem is amongst Europe’s most charming and picturesque locations. Sailing h...
Day 4 |
Bernkastel-Kues, Germany |
Bernkastel-Kues, Germany
Known as the 'heart of the Middle Moselle', beautiful Bernkastel-Kues is an enchanting twin-town spread along both the east and west banks of the River Mosel at the centre of the picturesque Moselle Valley. Set amongst a backdrop of stunning lush-green scenery and world-famous vineyards, including t...
Day 5 |
Bernkastel-Kues, Germany
|
Bernkastel-Kues, Germany
Known as the 'heart of the Middle Moselle', beautiful Bernkastel-Kues is an enchanting twin-town spread along both the east and west banks of the River Mosel at the centre of the picturesque Moselle Valley. Set amongst a backdrop of stunning lush-green scenery and world-famous vineyards, including t...
Braubach, Germany
Beautiful Braubach may be small, but there’s simply no ignoring this idyllic medieval town as you sail along the River Rhine through the heart of the Rhineland. Situated on the Rhine’s west bank, just a short distance south from Koblenz, Braubach captures your attention with its rolling...
Day 6 |
Braubach, Germany
|
Braubach, Germany
Beautiful Braubach may be small, but there’s simply no ignoring this idyllic medieval town as you sail along the River Rhine through the heart of the Rhineland. Situated on the Rhine’s west bank, just a short distance south from Koblenz, Braubach captures your attention with its rolling...
Rüdesheim am Rhein, Germany
If you’ve a penchant for fine wines you’re sure to adore the charming city of Rudesheim. Situated at the foot of gorgeous, lush-green Taunus Mountains in the southern region of Germany’s UNESCO-listed Rhine Valley, Rudesheim is surrounded by huge vineyards and considered the centre...
Day 7 |
Rüdesheim am Rhein, Germany |
Rüdesheim am Rhein, Germany
If you’ve a penchant for fine wines you’re sure to adore the charming city of Rudesheim. Situated at the foot of gorgeous, lush-green Taunus Mountains in the southern region of Germany’s UNESCO-listed Rhine Valley, Rudesheim is surrounded by huge vineyards and considered the centre...
Day 8 |
Mainz, Germany |
Mainz, Germany
Day 9 |
Worms, Germany |
Worms, Germany
Day 10 |
Strasbourg, France |
Strasbourg, France
Part beautifully preserved medieval gem, part unofficial capital of Europe and one of the most important modern cities on the continent; Strasbourg – the glorious capital of France’s beautiful Alsace region – is as cosmopolitan and captivating as they come. The city’s cultura...
Day 11 |
Speyer, Germany |
Speyer, Germany
Compact, picturesque and beautifully well-preserved, stunning Speyer always makes for a rewarding stop while cruising along the beautiful River Rhine. Easily explored on foot, the city is perfect for a few hours of relaxing sightseeing in the sunshine. Having survived the Second World War largely un...
Day 12 |
Speyer, Germany
|
Speyer, Germany
Compact, picturesque and beautifully well-preserved, stunning Speyer always makes for a rewarding stop while cruising along the beautiful River Rhine. Easily explored on foot, the city is perfect for a few hours of relaxing sightseeing in the sunshine. Having survived the Second World War largely un...
Koblenz, Germany
Situated at the famous ‘Deutsches Eck’ where the Rhine and Moselle rivers meet and the magnificent Hunsrück, Eifel and Westerwald mountain ranges converge, it’s no wonder Koblenz is considered one of the most picturesque cities in Germany. The appeal of Koblenz isn’t jus...
Day 13 |
Koblenz, Germany
|
Koblenz, Germany
Situated at the famous ‘Deutsches Eck’ where the Rhine and Moselle rivers meet and the magnificent Hunsrück, Eifel and Westerwald mountain ranges converge, it’s no wonder Koblenz is considered one of the most picturesque cities in Germany. The appeal of Koblenz isn’t jus...
Bonn, Germany
Today, Bonn is often overlooked for its nearby larger neighbour, Cologne, but its unique charms are undeniable. It’s famous for being the birthplace of Beethoven – and of Haribo! – as well as its former position as the capital of West Germany before reunification in 1990. [ReadMore...
Day 14 |
Bonn, Germany
|
Bonn, Germany
Today, Bonn is often overlooked for its nearby larger neighbour, Cologne, but its unique charms are undeniable. It’s famous for being the birthplace of Beethoven – and of Haribo! – as well as its former position as the capital of West Germany before reunification in 1990. [ReadMore...
Cologne, Germany
Situated on the Rhine River in the centre of the Rhine-Rhur region, charming Cologne is the beating heart of the beautiful Rhineland. Originally founded over 2,000 years ago by the Ubii tribe, Cologne was once the largest city in the Holy Roman Empire and served as a major trade route throughout the...
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On Our Ship
Built in 2006, this elegant and comfortable vessel is in keeping with the fleet of our ocean-going cruise ships. Brabant’s bright and spacious public areas and 79 well-equipped rooms and suites, spread across four decks, provide the intimate, home-from-home feel which Fred. Olsen’s guests already know and love.
Cruise ship staples such as swimming pools, a number of lounges and on-going activities are not in evidence on board, making way for a comfortable ambience and ample space in which to relax and enjoy the river cruise experience with around 150 fellow guests.
What's Included?
Cruise descriptions include optional, chargeable experiences that may be enjoyed independently and/or with optional Fred. Olsen Shore Tours.
Upgrade to Dining Drinks Package available as a chargeable optional extra.