Extending for 1,320 kilometres between Switzerland and the North Sea, the Rhine is one of Europe’s most famous waterways. Its most scenic section flows through Germany’s Middle Rhine Valley and the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge with its historic towns, fairytale castles and waterfront trails.
Board a pleasure cruise to explore the Rhine Valley from the water, taking in the winemaking town of Rüdesheim and the 132-metre-high slate rock of Lorelei. Rising above the riverside village of Kaub is the 13th-century Gutenfels Castle, an important example of the Hohenstaufen dynasty’s military architectural style.
Stretching along the length of the Rhine Valley is Euro Velo 15, a modern cycling trail that takes in alpine panoramas and Baltic beaches across its 24 stages. If you prefer to explore on foot, stroll the winding streets of picturesque Braubach. Home to an 11th-century chapel, the town is watched over by the hilltop castle of Schloss Marksburg.
Getting there
Frankfurt Airport and Cologne-Bonn Airport are both convenient gateways to the Rhine Valley and have flights to destinations across the globe. The Rhine Valley railway line that connects Koblenz with Mainz is a scenic way of exploring the region.