Insider Scoop: Romantic Rhine River Cruise Review

My Cruises’ Specialist, Jacky, recently experienced Avalon Waterways’ Romantic Rhine river cruise from Basel to Amsterdam. Here, she shares her daily experiences and tips with you, so you know what to expect.

Getting There

Getting to the Rhine River with My Cruises was easier than I imagined. Navigating Zurich train station before boarding the ship in Basel, was surprisingly easy!

Day 1: Breisach (Black Forest), Germany

Day Highlight – Welcome to Breisach, the perfect base for the mysterious Black Forest.

Onshore Experience – This storybook town is the ideal gateway to uncovering the wine and food loving culture of this German region.

Onboard Moment – The Avalon app helped us plan daily activities and was easy to use.

Best Surprise – We upgraded to the Panorama Suite (it’s worth the upgrade if you can!) and absolutely loved the views from the window-facing bed!

Autumn trees and a small cabin on a lake shore with hills in the background, mirrored in the water.

Day 2: Strasbourg and Colmar, France

Day Highlight – Strasbourg is a picturesque town on the border of France and Germany! Explore cobbled lanes, colourful homes, Renaissance buildings, and stained-glass cathedrals.

Onshore Experience – The walking tour excursion of downtown Strasbourg was something to remember, and we fell in love with the mouthwatering pastries filled with cream and Nutella!

Onboard Moment – We savoured the delicious daily buffet breakfast using locally sourced ingredients, which changes with each town you visit.

Best Surprise – We loved that the excursions and tours were in the morning, exclusively with Avalon, before all the crowds arrived.

Twilight view of colorful half-timbered houses along a calm canal in a quaint old town.

TOP TIP

It’s a good idea to secure your activities ahead of time, as they book out quickly.

Day 3: Heidelberg, Germany

Day Highlight – Heidelberg is a historic German university town. Don’t miss the incredible ruins of the Renaissance palace, once home to the Imperial Princess.

Onshore Experience – Heidelburg Castle is one of the only castles that exists in its original condition. A ticket here gives you a funicular ride (steep trolley ride) and it’s included in your tour.

Onboard Moment – At dusk, we savoured evening cocktails whilst gazing at the stunning European sunset over the Rhine River as we sailed away.

Best Surprise – Happy Hour meant we could have complimentary cocktails every day. It was the perfect way to end your day.

Aerial view of a historic European town with a castle, old bridge, and river flanked by hills and greenery.

Day 4: Rudesheim, Germany

Day Highlight – Welcome to Rudesheim, a quaint town known for Riesling wine vineyards. Visit laneways lined with shops, gin distilleries, taverns, restaurants.

Onshore Experience – We borrowed a bike from Avalon to ride through the vineyards.

Onboard Moment – My favourite moment was lying on the bed in our suite and watching the castles go by. It doesn’t seem believable!

Best Surprise – You witness more castles along the Rhine River than anywhere else on Earth! You’re invited on the deck during this part of the cruise which is perfectly timed to sail by this breathtaking UNESCO World Heritage site.

A scenic view of a vineyard with a picturesque village and church spire in the background under a clear sky.

TOP TIP

Make the most of all-inclusive onboard dining and return to the ship for lunch.

Day 5: Cologne, Germany

Day Highlight – One of Germany’s oldest and most beautiful cities, spend your visit exploring squares, local markets, historical monuments, and the modern city.

Onshore Experience – We enjoyed the half-day walking tour and learning the history of the Old Town, as well as visiting the huge cathedrals that took hundreds of years to build!

Onboard Moment – Watching a movie was a relaxing way to unwind after a busy day exploring.

Best Surprise – I was blown away by the phenomenal service. Everyone from the receptionist to housekeeping was so helpful and knowledgeable.

Aerial view of a city at twilight with cathedral, bridge, river, and illuminated buildings.

Day 6-7: Amsterdam, Netherlands

Day Highlight – Welcome to Amsterdam, home to picturesque canals and architectural delights. Enjoy an overnight stay onboard in port for more time ashore.

Onshore Experience – A highlight of the entire trip was the Zaanse Schans Windmills, and traditional clog and cheese-making excursion – all organised through Avalon.

Onboard Moment – We enjoyed eating the lighter portions of the same menu in the lounge area that are offered daily, as well as the overnight stay onboard in Amsterdam.

Best Surprise – The activities are extremely well organised by Avalon, and you can go at your own pace on walking tours.

 

Twilight over a calm canal in Amsterdam with a row of traditional Dutch buildings reflecting on the water.

Seeking a romantic Rhine experience of your own?

Explore our River Cruise Collection today!

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