5 days of castles, wine and river cruises
5 days exploring the Rhine-Moselle Valley, including Germany’s castles, cities and nature, visiting cities such as: Heidelbrg, Trier, Koblenz, Offenburg and the Rhine Valley.
The Rhine Valley, from Mainz to Koblenz, is one of Germany’s most fascinating routes and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Along the gentle banks of the river are breathtaking scenery and you are immersed in beautiful nature-
Why this Journey
- to visit authentic gems such as Aachen, Wurzburg, Trier
- To discover the Rhine and Moselle Valleys
In summary, a Rhine Valley tour is a comprehensive experience, combining history, nature, culture and gastronomy, suitable for all types of travelers.
- Heidelberg: Famous for its castle and romantic atmosphere.
Trier: One of the oldest cities in Germany, rich in history and Roman monuments.
Aachen: Known for its cathedral, the coronation site of the Holy Roman Emperors.
Cologne: Famous for its impressive cathedral and charming historic centre.
Koblenz: Located at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers, surrounded by vineyards and castles.
Mainz: Birthplace of Gutenberg, with a museum dedicated to the inventor of printing.
What to expect on a tour:
Landscapes:
The Rhine Valley is famous for its spectacular views, with terraced vineyards climbing the hillsides, medieval castles perched on rocks, and the river meandering through the mountains
Boroughs:
The area is dotted with picturesque medieval villages, such as Bacharach, renowned for its castle and winemaking tradition, and Rüdesheim, with its half-timbered houses and strategic location at the confluence of the Nahe and Rhine rivers.
Castles:
Castles along the Rhine River are among the main attractions. Some examples include Rheinfels Castle, one of the largest in Europe, Drachenburg Castle, which looks like something out of a fairy tale, and Marksburg Castle, which was never destroyed.
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moselle_Valley
Programme
Day 1 – ARRIVAL HEIDELBERG
Day 1 – Arrival in Heidelberg
Arrival in the early afternoon in Heidelberg, Germany’s oldest and most iconic university town.
Enjoy free time to explore this romantic city nestled along the Neckar River, famous for its scenic riverside views and the evocative ruins of its hilltop castle. Wander through the historic Altstadt (Old Town), with its charming alleys, baroque architecture, and lively squares.
Day 2 – Bingen, Boppard & Koblenz: Cruise on the Romantic Rhine
After breakfast at the hotel, departure for Bingen, a charming riverside town.
Board the boat in the morning for a scenic cruise along one of the most picturesque stretches of the Rhine River, passing through the legendary Lorelei Valley and the vine-covered hills of Boppard.
Enjoy lunch on board while admiring castles, medieval villages, and panoramic views.
Disembark in Koblenz, a historic city located at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers. Time at leisure to explore the old town, the “Deutsches Eck” (German Corner), and perhaps take the cable car up to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress for breathtaking views.
Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel in Koblenz or surrounding area.
Day 3 – Eltz Castle, Cochem, Bernkastel-Kues & Trier
After breakfast, depart for Eltz Castle, nestled deep in the forest and considered the most fairy-tale-like castle in the entire Moselle Valley. Enjoy some free time to explore this well-preserved medieval fortress, with its towers, halls, and armory filled with centuries of history.
Free lunch during the visit, then continue to Cochem, a postcard-worthy village known for its vineyards and half-timbered houses.
Next stop is Bernkastel-Kues, a jewel of the Moselle Valley. Enjoy a walking tour of the town, where the central square with its Renaissance and Gothic facades is one of the most iconic in all of Germany.
Conclude the day with a wine tasting in a local cellar, before heading to Trier, Germany’s oldest city.
Dinner and overnight stay at the hotel in Trier or nearby.
Day 4 – Trier & Offenburg
After breakfast, morning dedicated to the guided tour of Trier, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Admire the impressive Roman remains, including the Porta Nigra, the imperial baths, the amphitheatre, and the imposing Basilica of Constantine.
After the visit, depart for Offenburg, in the heart of the Baden wine region, near the Black Forest.
Arrival, hotel check-in, dinner and overnight stay.
Day 5 – Offenburg & Strasbourg
After breakfast, depart for Strasbourg, the enchanting capital of Alsace and home to the European Parliament.
Enjoy a self-guided visit of this charming city, where French and German cultures blend beautifully in its architecture, cuisine, and atmosphere.
You may opt to explore the historic centre and the picturesque Petite France district by boat tour along the canals, earning Strasbourg the nickname “The Venice of the North.”
After a free lunch, departure for your home destinations.