Uncovering the Rhine's Best-Kept Secrets: Small Cities Worth Exploring

The Rhine River: Castles, Legends, and Lakeside Charm

Sailing the Legendary Rhine River

The Rhine River delivers everything you’d dream of in a European river cruise, from vineyards and castles to quaint towns and grand cities. A popular river cruise for first timers! But the journey doesn’t have to end at the riverbanks. Many Rhine itineraries start or end in Switzerland, giving you the chance to explore Lake Lucerne, Zurich, and the city of Basel each a destination worth lingering in.

Top Rhine Cruise Highlights

1. Lake Lucerne, Switzerland- Surrounded by alpine peaks, this lake town feels like something from a fairytale. Ride a cogwheel train up Mount Pilatus, take a boat ride across the lake, or simply enjoy the lakefront promenade with a view that belongs on a postcard.

2. Zurich, Switzerland- Often overlooked, Zurich is a clean, stylish city with a beautiful Old Town, an amazing food scene, and upscale shopping. Don’t miss Bahnhofstrasse or the peaceful walk along Lake Zurich.

3. Basel, Switzerland- At the Rhine’s edge, Basel is rich in art and architecture and home to over 40 museums, a vibrant Old Town, and charming riverside cafés.

It’s the perfect jumping-off point for your river cruise on a pre-night or a place to unwind afterward.

More Classic Rhine Highlights

4. Rüdesheim, Germany - The city offers beautiful vineyard views, quaint streets, and the famous Drosselgasse filled with live music and local wine all in this small cozy town.

5. The Middle Rhine Gorge- This stunning stretch is lined with castles, steep cliffs, and the mysterious Lorelei Rock, where legend has it a siren once lured sailors to their doom.

6. Cologne, Germany- Visit the massive Cologne Cathedral, explore Roman ruins, and sample a Kölsch beer in a riverside beer hall.

7. Strasbourg, France- A charming city in Alsace, a historical medieval city full of history, culinary indulgence and romantic walking called little France.

You will find a blend of French and German influences. A must visit is their Gothic Cathedral, called the "Cathedrale Notre-Dame-de-Strasbourg".

Why the Rhine?

Perfect for first-timers or returning cruisers, the Rhine offers historic cities, scenic valleys, and diverse cultures — all from the comfort of your river cruise ship.

Castles Along the Rhine You Can See from the Ship

Top Rhine Castles (North to South):

1. Ehrenbreitstein Fortress (Koblenz)- Towering above the river opposite the Deutsches Eck, this massive fortress offers panoramic views and houses museums.

2. Stolzenfels Castle- A romantic 19th-century reconstruction of a medieval fortress — white towers, arched bridges, and Gothic vibes.

3. Marksburg Castle- The only hilltop castle on the Rhine never destroyed — it looks much like it did in the Middle Ages. A popular stop for guided tours.

4. Liebenstein & Sterrenberg Castles (The "Hostile Brothers") -Two castles-built side by side — legend says feuding brothers once lived here. The dramatic story adds to the beauty of this iconic stretch.

5. Maus Castle (Burg Maus)- Overlooks the village of Wellmich. Its name (“Mouse”) was a sarcastic response to its rival, Burg Katz (the “Cat”).

6. Katz Castle (Burg Katz)- High above St. Goarshausen, this fortress seems to watch over the Rhine — though not open to the public, it’s a stunning photo op.

7. Rheinfels Castle (St. Goar)- Once the largest fortress on the Rhine, now a spectacular ruin you can explore, complete with underground tunnels and great river views.

8. Schönburg Castle (Oberwesel)- A beautifully preserved castle now operating as a hotel — imagine waking up here!

9. Pfalzgrafenstein Castle (Kaub)-This “castle on an island” was a toll station in the middle of the river — one of the Rhine’s most unique and photogenic sites.

10. Gutenfels Castle (Kaub)-Perched just above Pfalzgrafenstein, this castle was part of the toll system and offers great views.

11. Sooneck Castle (Niederheimbach)- A smaller, fairy-tale-style castle rebuilt in the 19th century with towers and gardens.

12. Reichenstein Castle (Trechtingshausen)-Restored and romantic, with a museum and hotel. Gorgeous courtyard and knightly décor.

13. Rheinstein Castle (near Bingen)- A classic favorite! Compact and dramatic, perched on a rock face. Gorgeous gardens and stained glass.

Contact Ana Maschinski - TravelPro1 @ 945-217-5241 today to book your next river cruise! Email: info@travelpro1.com