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Cologne, Germany

Cologne Rhine River Cruises

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With more than two thousand years of history, Cologne is one of Germany's most significant cultural centers, especially for its signature Gothic architecture. Straddling the Rhine River, this city is home to a magnificent twin-spired Gothic cathedral, recognized in 1996 as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Of course, no trip to Cologne is complete without a stop in the Fragrance Museum and the birthplace of Eau de Cologne. Cologne is the embarking and departure point for many of our Rhine River cruises, which vary from 4 days all the way to two weeks so that you can either combine this journey with another European cruise or decide to spend more time in the ancient Rhineland of historic Germany. Some of the longer cruises even visit neighboring France, Switzerland, and the Netherlands. Contact us to get started planning!

10 Best Rhine River Cruises to Cologne

Rhine River
Rhine River
Cologne, Germany
Captivating Rhine - Cruise Only
8 Days from $2,499
Enjoy a luxurious 8-day cruise from Amsterdam to Basel aboard the MS Amaprima as you explore the historic cities and highlights of the Rhine, from Strasbourg's "La Petite France" district to Koblenz & Rüdesheim. You also have chances to hike the hills of Heidelberg, pass the famous Rock of Lorelei, and visit ancient ruins, castles, and canals.
Place Kleber in Strasbourg
The Enchanting Rhine - From Basel to Amsterdam
8 Days from $2,799
Join the MS Amakristina for an 8-day journey along the enchanting Rhine River, one of world's most important arteries of industrial transport. Embark in Basel and cruise towards Amsterdam, making stops in Breisach, Strasbourg, Mannheim, Heidelberg, Rüdesheim, Koblenz and Cologne.
View from the harbour of Basel, Switzerland
The Enchanting Rhine - From Basel to Amsterdam
8 Days from $2,599
Spend 8 days cruising from Basel to Amsterdam along the enchanting Rhine, one of Europe´s most fascinating rivers. Enjoy daily excursions with a large variety of activities so that you can choose how you want to explore this marvelous region.
Explore the inspiring Amsterdam
The Enchanting Rhine - Cruise Only
8 Days from $2,799
Begin your 8-day cruise from Amsterdam to Basel, Switzerland aboard the luxurious MS Amakristina. As you tour the historic towns of France, Germany, and the Netherlands, expert guides will lead you to local wineries, on architectural tours of the Gothic style buildings that highlight the region, and on hikes and canal excursions as well.
Explore the inspiring Amsterdam
The Enchanting Rhine - Cruise Only
8 Days from $2,799
Begin your 8-day cruise in Amsterdam aboard the MS Amaprima and sail the Rhine River to Basel, Switzerland. Guided city tours and wine tasting are optional as you visit the towns of Germany and France along the way, like Strasbourg, Mannheim, Heidelberg, Cologne, and Breisach. Canal tours are another exciting part of this cruise.
View from the harbour of Basel, Switzerland
The Enchanting Rhine - From Basel to Amsterdam
8 Days from $2,799
Experience 8 days full of discovery and wonder on this complete cruise along the enchanting Rhine, one of Europe´s most fascinating rivers. Enjoy a large variety of activities, tours and excursions, so that you can choose how you want to explore the magnificent cities and charming villages nestled between Basel and Amsterdam.
Rooftop image of a Christmas Market
Christmas Markets on the Rhine - Cruise Only
8 Days from $2,899
Embark the MS Amakristina for an 8-day cruise from Amsterdam to Basel, exploring the most beloved Christmas markets along Europe's Rhine River. These traditional markets are a treasure trove of culture and authentic souvenirs. You also have the option to hike, tour castles, and participate in wine-tasting excursions.
Basel Townhall, Switzerland
The Enchanting Rhine 2018 (Wine Themed) - Cruise Only
8 Days from $2,799
The luxurious MS Amakristina will take you on an 8-day tour from Basel, Switzerland to Amsterdam, Netherlands, passing through historic Breisach, Strasbourg, Mannheim, Heidelberg, Rüdesheim, and Koblenz along the way. Hiking, wine tasting, and taking a Gondola down the beautiful canals are just a few of the activities available on this tour.
Place Kleber in Strasbourg
The Enchanting Rhine - From Basel to Amsterdam (Wine Themed) - Cruise Only
8 Days from $2,799
The MS Amasonata sails from Basel to Amsterdam on this 8-day cruise of the Rhine River. You'll see "La Petite France" district, where Gothic cathedrals and ancient buildings have stood for centuries; a hike up Philosopher's Path shows you a panoramic view of Heidelberg; Strasbourg, Mannheim, Rüdesheim, Breisach, & Koblenz are other destinations.
Detailed ornament at a Christmas Market
Christmas Markets on the Rhine - Cruise Only
8 Days from $2,899
Take an enchanting 8-day Rhine River cruise that takes you through the fabled Black Forest and Alsace regions. Visit Heidelberg and Cologne, famous for their majestic Cathedrals, Baroque architecture, and bustling Christmas markets. Conclude your winter adventure in Amsterdam, amidst the city’s legendary canals and colorful holiday surroundings.

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Cologne, Germany Highlights

From history to architecture, the storybook German city of Cologne seems to come straight out of a fairytale. Whether embarking here or simply passing through, this city is full of delights, including:
  • The twin-spired Gothic cathedral, immediately recognizable as one of Germany's foremost masterpieces of the Gothic period.
     
  • The Fragrance Museum, where you will see how cologne is made and how this city earned a reputation as one of the world's most aromatic destinations.

After getting to know this historic city, your cruise will continue on to other destinations along the Rhine River, from Germany's medieval cities to charming towns in the Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, and perhaps even France.
 
Visit charming Passau
European Cruise: When to Go?
Europe is an incredible destination all year long. However, there may be better months to visit based on your personal interests & preferences. Weather, activity options, & festivals are just a few of the factors that could determine when you travel. Here is some insight into best times for a Europe river cruise.
A cathedral at sunset from the Rhine in Cologne
European Rivers
The multiple rivers flowing through Europe provide the perfect mode of transit for intimate travel experiences throughout various countries! River cruises also eliminate the stress of finding public transportation or driving. This brief overview of the Rhine, Rhone, Danube and Main rivers can help guide you in selecting your best river cruise option.
Take a ride on the ferris wheel or take a stroll through the Christmas Market
Cruising Europe Christmas Markets
Explore the enchanting Christmas Markets throughout Germany, Austria and Hungary on your Europe river cruise. Drink hot mulled wine as you meander through these traditional street markets. This is sure to be a charming, festive way to spend the holiday.
Immerse yourself in the romance of Italy
When to Visit Europe: Seasons & Temperatures
Europe is a wonderful year-round destination depending on where you want to explore. The summer is the most popular season across the continent, but the fall and spring shoulder months can offer some great deals and less tourist traffic. Read more about each region of Europe and when to go.
MS Fernao de Magalhaes
River Cruising Has Our Attention
While many travelers are familiar with the standard ocean liners and mega-yachts, river cruises offer a different atmosphere and experience that can only be found in certain parts of the world.
Holiday Traditions Edited
Holidays Traditions Around the Globe
From Asia to Europe to Latin America, each country celebrates their holidays in a unique way with distinct traditions. Guatemala, Ecuador, Japan, Germany, and other Adventure Life destinations will show you how a wonderful mix of cultures celebrates Christmas, Hanukkah, and the New Year.
Christmas Market at night.
European River Cruise - Christmas Markets in Germany!
Europe is full of treasures, and one of the best times to see them is over the Christmas holiday, when the traditional Christmas Markets adorn the squares of many towns throughout central Europe. Hand-crafted souvenirs, delicious sweets, and local delights characterize these age-old markets.

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