rhine cruise castles

Castles on the Romantic Rhine River [with map]

The Upper Middle Rhine Valley, or as it’s more commonly known, the Romantic Rhine—is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a castle lover’s dream come true. The 65-mile river Rhine stretch between Bingen and Koblenz reveals another castle, fortress, or palace at every twist and turn. 40 altogether, each set against a backdrop of terraced vineyards and charming small towns pulsing with regional culture.

But these German castles on the Rhine River aren’t just for show. Some stand as majestic ruins, others have been lovingly restored and invite you inside for a closer look at their grand interiors. And for those who’ve ever fantasized about dining or even sleeping in a castle, you’re in luck—several offer top-notch culinary experiences and overnight stays.

In this guide, we’re offering you a curated look at 17 of the Rhine’s most unforgettable castles. We’ll categorize them for you: the ones you can explore, the ones where you can enjoy a meal, and even those where you can spend the night.

River Cruise on the Rhine

Want to see as many castles as you can in one go? A river cruise the best way to see several castles on the Rhine. Several companies offer these tours, with KD being the most prolific. You could cruise the entire stretch from Bingen/Ruedesheim to Koblenz and back, but keep in mind that this journey would take 6 hours upstream and 3.5 hours downstream. If you’d rather not spend your whole day on the water, you can opt for shorter segments. Consider the Lorelei Rock formation near Sank Goarhausen as a handy dividing line: tours south of Lorelei typically depart from Bingen/Ruedesheim, while those to the north start in Koblenz.

Castle Hotels on the Rhine

#1 ehrenbreitstein fortress (festung ehrenbreitstein).

Steeped in history, the fortress also offers panoramic vistas and a variety of activities to keep you entertained. On sunny days, a spacious patio beckons for some laid-back moments. If you’re up for a little challenge, try your hand at the adventure minigolf course. Little travelers aren’t left out either; an adventure playground is on hand to keep them thrilled. 

The journey to Ehrenbreitstein itself is an experience. You can choose transportation via funicular or cable car. You’ll find boarding for the funicular about ½ mile from the Ehrenbreitstein train station, and it zips you up the hill in 3 minutes. The cable car starts at ‘Deutsches Eck’ in Koblenz’s city center and takes you up the hill in 5 minutes. Trust me, you’ll want to have your camera ready for those views. And if you happen to visit during winter, don’t miss the ‘Christmas Garden Koblenz,’ which lights up the castle in a mesmerizing display (note: separate ticketing and hours apply).

Built around the year 1000, this monumental fortress was prized for its strategic location. Various rulers and archbishops expanded it over the centuries. Despite facing numerous invading armies, the fortress remained intact. In 1799, however, it was invaded and destroyed by French revolutionary troops. It was rebuilt and completed in 1832. Interestingly, the fortress was not used for military purposes in the 19th century. However, the American flag was raised here following victories in both 1918 and 1945. Today, the fortress houses a Cultural Center and the Koblenz State Museum presenting exhibitions g on photography, archaeology, viticulture, culinary delights, and economic and cultural history. There is also a youth hostel within the confines of the fortress, which, if you ask me, is far from the worst place one could stay.  

Tour : Audio Guides available in English allow you to learn about the fortress while you stroll across the vast area at your own pace. There are tours and living history tours, but they are only offered in German

Opening Hours : Apr 1- Nov 5, 2023: 10 am-6 pm, Nov 6- Mar 23, 2024: 10 am- 4 pm

#5 Liebenstein Castle (Schloss Liebenstein)

Liebenstein Castle, is one part of the ‘hostile brothers’ duo, the other being Sterrenberg Castle (#6 on our list). Liebenstein Castle invites you to dine in a restaurant that serves traditional German fare, all set against a backdrop of medieval ambiance. Whether you choose to eat indoors or on the rustic patio, the experience is sure to be memorable. For those looking to extend their visit, the family-run Castle Liebenstein hotel offers rooms furnished in authentic medieval style.

#7 Rheinfels

Built in 1245 by Count Diether of Katzenelnbogen (yes, the same guy behind Cat Castle), Rheinfels Castle stands as an expansive ruin along the Middle Rhine. Though it’s seen better days, the castle’s grandeur is still palpable, a testament to its unconquerable past under the landgraves of Hesse. Although it’s in  ruins today, it is still an impressive site.  

Opening Hours : Mar-Oct 9 am – 6 pm; Nov-Feb. 10 am – 3 pm

Tour : Visitors are welcome to explore the ruin complex at their own pace. There are also German language tours on the weekends between March and October.

Right next to Rheinfels Castle, you’ll find three restaurants serving up local and seasonal fare. For those looking to extend their stay, there’s also a 4-star luxury wellness resort complete with modern rooms, a pool, and a sauna.

#9 Schonburg Castle (Burg Schönburg)

Crafted in the 12th century, possibly by the legendary Count Palatine Hermann von Stahleck, Schönburg Castle in Oberwesel got a defensive upgrade from the Archbishops of Trier. Even after some 20th-century touch-ups, it’s still standing tall with its 20-meter shield wall intact. 

The castle museum, open, takes you on a 700-year journey and even features a slingshot replica for a taste of medieval warfare. Don’t miss the jaw-dropping views from the museum tower’s viewing platform.

Opening Hours : Apr-Dec, Tuesday- Sunday

Hungry for more than just history? The ‘ Castle Bistro ’ serves up a knightly atmosphere, while the restaurant offers a fine dining experience. On sunny days, the patio is the place to be for those panoramic views. If you’re smitten and can’t bear to leave, Schönburg offers 29 rooms & suites in a 4-star setting . Bonus: hotel guests get exclusive access to the dreamy castle garden.

#10 Gutenfels Castle (Burg Gutenfels)

The lords of Falkenstein-Münzenberg built Gutenfels in 1222. Together with Pfalzgrafenstein Castle it helped to secure the toll for ships passing by on the Rhine. 

Fast forward to today, and Gutenfels transformed into a cozy boutique hotel with just five fabulously unique rooms. Guests can unwind the library (with fireplace), and a sauna.

#12 Stahleck Castle (Burg Stahleck)

The year 1142/1143 marked a pivotal moment for both the town of Bacharach and Stahleck Castle, as Count Hermann von Stahleck was granted the County Palatine of the Rhine. Over time, the castle evolved into one of the Middle Rhine’s most formidable fortresses, with Bacharach serving as the command center for the Rhine County Palatine. Though Stahleck Castle suffered significant damage during the Thirty Years’ War, it was lovingly restored in 1666 due to the Count Palatine’s deep emotional connection to it. Unfortunately, the castle met its downfall in 1689 when French troops destroyed it during the Palatine War of Succession, leaving it in ruins until its 1925 reconstruction based on historical designs. Today, the castle plays host to a youth hostel .

#14 Reichenstein Castle (Burg Reichenstein)

Reichenstein Castle is the Rhine’s most recently reconstructed castle, and it has a dark and thrilling past. Once a notorious haven for robber barons in the 13th century, this castle was the stage for illegal raids, territorial grabs, and intense feuds. The lawlessness reached such heights that in 1290, King Rudolf of Habsburg not only laid siege to and destroyed the castle but also issued a ban on its reconstruction—after executing the resident robber knights, of course.

Today, Reichenstein Castle is a multi-faceted destination, featuring a museum, a restaurant, and a boutique hotel. 

Opening Hours : May-Oct, 9 am – 5 pm, Nov-Apr, 9 am-5 pm (last entry 4 pm) 

Tour : The museum offers an audio guide available in both German and English, recounting the castle’s 1,000-year-old saga (and there’s a kid-friendly version, too!). Little ones can even play pretend to be knights and princesses for some memorable photo ops.

As for dining, the restaurant serves up delectable cuisine paired with exceptional wines from the region. If you’re lucky, you might even get to savor a glass from the castle’s very own vineyard.

When it comes to accommodations, the hotel boasts 12 modern yet elegant rooms, offering a perfect blend of history and luxury.

Other outstanding castles on the Rhine

#2 stolzenfels castle (schloss stolzenfels).

Considered the epitome of Rhine Romanticism, Schloss Stolzenfels is a true fairytale castle. Built as a strategic move by Archbishop Arnold II of Trier to rival the Archbishop of Mainz’s Lahneck Castle, Stolzenfels Castle once stood as a formidable guardian at the mouth of the Lahn River. Though it faced ruin during the Palatine War of Succession, a twist of fate came in 1823 when the city of Koblenz gifted the ruins to Prussian Crown Prince Frederick William IV. With the help of star architect Karl Friedrich Schinkel, the prince breathed new life into the castle, turning it into a grand residence while keeping its medieval charm intact.

Accessible from the Koblenz neighborhood of Stolzenfels, the walk up to the castle winds through a forested gorge. Along the way, you’ll pass a grotto, go under a viaduct, and encounter a waterfall—all before even reaching the castle’s beautifully landscaped gardens.

Opening Hours : Feb 1- Mar 14: Saturday, Sunday & Holidays: 10 am – 5 pm (last entry: 4 pm); Mar 15-Oct 31 : Thursday-Sunday & Holidays: 10 am – 5 pm (last entry: 4 pm); Nov 1- Nov 30: Saturday, Sunday & Holidays: 10 am – 5 pm (last entry: 4 pm); Closed December & January

Tour: You can stroll through the castle and the gardens at your own pace. Inside the castle, you’ll see the historic living quarters with the original furniture and the great hall.

#3 Marksburg Castle

Marksburg is a medieval castle in the truest sense. Built between the 13th and 15th centuries, it’s only one of two castles on the Rhine that has never been destroyed, offering an authentic window into medieval life. The castle’s strategic location made it ideal for monitoring river traffic and defense. The value and significance of Marksburg Castle can be found in particular in its complete preservation as a medieval fortress. The impressive stronghold with most buildings dating back to the 13th to 15th century consists of wall rings containing keep, residential buildings, baileys, and bastions all on top of a hill above the small romantic town of Braubach, and with its interesting, typical interior rooms such as castle kitchen, great hall, bed chamber, chapel, armory, wine cellar, and battlements it allows us to travel back into the Middle Ages.

The castle welcomes guests for tours, featuring rooms such as the armory and chapel that have been meticulously restored to their original glory, offering you a tangible connection to history.

Opening Hours : The Castle is open daily between 10 am – 6 pm, with the last tour starting at 4 pm.

Tour : The castle can only be visited as part of a 50-minute guided tour. Tours take place in German daily 10 am – 5p m. A designated English-speaking tour takes place every day at 1 pm and 4 pm, but only during summer.

#4 Sterrenberg Castle (Burg Sterrenberg)

Sterrenberg Castle and the neighboring Liebenstein Castle are often referred to as the “hostile brothers.” The two castles are situated right next to each other, but they are separated by a shield wall. Legend has it that two brothers named ‘von Sterrenberg’ and ‘von Liebenstein’, cheated their blind sister out of her inheritance, using the ill-gotten wealth to build separate castles. Their deceit led to a bitter feud, culminating in a tragic hunting accident. One brother accidentally shot the other through the heart with an arrow. Wracked with guilt, the surviving brother journeyed to the Holy Land, where he met his own end. The legend of the two castles was immortalized by German poet Heinrich Heine in his poem “Zwei Brüder” (Two Brothers).

Today, Sterrenberg Castle is an event location, with varying public and private events throughout the year. There are also occasional group tours offered.

#6 Mouse” Castle (Burg Maus) #8 Katz Castle – “Cat” Castle (Burg Katz)

“The ‘Cat and Mouse’ rivalry isn’t just a saying; it’s etched into the architecture of two iconic Rhine Valley castles. Mouse Castle, or Deuernburg, was built in 1356 by Trier Archbishop Boemund II as a direct challenge to the upstream Rheinsfels Castle, owned by the counts of Katzenelnbogen. Not to be outdone, these counts swiftly built Neu-Katzenelnbogen, later known as Cat Castle, as their own form of medieval one-upmanship. These two fortresses are among the Rhine Valley’s most famous landmarks. Unfortunately, none of them are currently open for visitors.

#11 Pfalzgrafenstein Castle (Burg Pfalzgrafenstein)

Situated amidst the currents of the Rhine, the quaint Pfalzgrafenstein Castle—often simply called Pfalz Castle—is accessible only by ferry. This ‘stony ship’ was commissioned by King Ludwig of Bavaria and Count Palatine, primarily to serve as a toll station for passing ships. After all, royal life didn’t come cheap! This move was much to the chagrin of the Catholic Church and the bishops in Trier, who had a firm grip on the toll trade. Today, Pfalzgrafenstein Castle stands as one of the most photographed landmarks along the Rhine and can be visited via a ferry from the town of Kaub.

Visitor Info : As of the publication of this article, Pfalzgrafenstein Castle was closed.

#13 Sooneck Castle (Burg Sooneck)

Sooneck Castle epitomizes the romantic essence of the Rhine region. It was constructed in the 13th century and is steeped in lore as a haven for infamous robber barons. While most castles on the Rhine are marked by tension and rivalries between ruling parties, Sooneck was collaboratively utilized by four Prussian princes as a hunting retreat. The estate is equally famous for the legend of Hans Veit, a blind crossbowman who allegedly killed the contentious castle lord, Siebold von Sooneck. 

Opening Hours : Apr 1- Nov. 1, 10 am – 5 pm (last entry 4 pm)

Tour : You can explore it at your own pace with a self-guided tour. Inside, you’ll find rooms adorned with antique furniture and paintings that offer a window into work and life during the Middle Ages. Don’t miss the opportunity to take in the exceptional views of the Rhine Valley from the castle.

#12 Rheinstein Castle (Romantik-Schloss Burg Rheinstein)

From its 13th-century beginnings as a toll castle to its 19th-century Romantic makeover by Prince Friedrich Wilhelm of Prussia, this castle has certainly seen its share of history. After decaying into ruins in the 17th century, it was lovingly restored by the prince and remained a Hohenzollern family gem until 1975.

Now privately owned, the castle boasts a museum and an inviting restaurant with a patio—though you’ll need to tour the museum to dine there. The museum offers a curated collection ranging from antique furniture and knights’ armor to stained glass windows and frescos. For a tranquil moment, don’t overlook the romantic gardens, which offer a serene view over the Middle Rhine.

A special event is the Magical Christmas Market that runs at Burg Rheinstein from November 5 to December 19, 2023.

Opening Hours : Mar 18-Nov 5,  10 am 6 pm (last entry at 5 p.m.); Nov 6 -Dec 24, weekends 11 am 4:30 pm; special hours for the Magical Christmas market.

Tour : You are invited to explore the castle on your own.

#16 Burgruine Ehrenfels (Ehrenfels ruin) & Mouse Tower

Ehrenfels Castle served as toll collection station, in tandem with Mouse Tower upstream. Built in the 13th century, it belonged to the Archbishops of Mainz who not only built out the castle over the centuries, but also their wealth. The castle came under attack 1689 by French troops and was partially destroyed. The remains of the castle can be viewed from the outside only via a 45-60 minute walk from Rüdesheim.

#17 Klopp Castle (Burg Klopp)

Established in the 13th century by the Archbishops in Mainz, Klopp Castle initially served as a defensive stronghold at the Nahe River’s mouth. Its primary role was to shield clergy from local rebellions. However, in 1301, the castle faced significant damage during an attack led by King Albrecht I of Habsburg. The conflict was, unsurprisingly, about who had the authority to collect customs in the area.

Fast forward to the late 1800s, and the castle underwent a facelift, embracing neo-Gothic architectural elements and expanding its structure. Nowadays, the castle houses Bingen’s local government. The inner courtyard is open to the public year-round, yet it is the tower and its viewing platform (open only from April to October) that steals the show  with its spectacular views over the Rhine valley. Inside the tower, you’ll find informational panels highlighting notable figures like Victor Hugo, Turnvater Jahn—the pioneer of physical education—and Richard Wagner, who have all visited the castle.

The castle also contains a small, but mighty fine restaurant , which offers regional wines. Reservation in advance is required!

Eva is the founder of Germany Travel Co. She was born in the historic town of Esslingen, Germany, and now lives in Los Angeles. Eva loves to share the beauty of her home country with others. As a certified Travel Expert, she plans travel for individuals, couples and families with a focus on culture and adventure. Take advantage of her custom trip planning services and elevate your Germany vacation now.

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20 best Rhine River castles in Germany

• David Angel

The Rhine river castles are among the most famous castles in the world.  The 40 or so castles perched above the steep, narrow Upper Middle Rhine Valley gave rise to the Romantic movement. And an appreciation of this beautiful evocative landscape that endures 200 years on.

These castles are packed into just 65 km (40 miles) of the Rhine’s course. At each turn of the river there seems to be another Rhine castle overlooking the valley.

Together with the gorgeous riverside towns, hilltop hikes and famous Rhine wines, this is perhaps the ultimate place in  Europe to get your castle fix.  

In this Rhine Castles guide, I advise which ones are open to visit, and which are open as accommodation and restaurants. One of the River Rhine castles that I describe is a private residence, but I explain how to find some amazing views of it.

Table of Contents

Rhine River Castles – An Introduction

There are over 40 castles on the Rhine between Koblenz and Bingen, the stretch of the Rhine Valley that is a UNESCO World Heritage Site

The Upper Middle Rhine Valley – sometimes called the Rhine Gorge – is a unique landscape. The wide river is forced through a relatively narrow, steep gorge for 65 km (40 miles). The dramatic landscape is made up of hilltop castles, medieval half-timbered towns and villages and vineyards producing Riesling wines.

The Rhine river castles range from the fully intact medieval fortress of Marksburg to castles restored and refurbished in the 19 th century.

The Rhine valley acquired its romantic reputation in the 19 th century, the fairytale picturesque landscape discovered by the likes of poet Heinrich Heine and British painter JMW Turner and becoming renowned through their works.

The legend of the Lorelei maiden – said to lure ships onto treacherous rocks – also dates from this time. 

Some of the castles along the river Rhine are open as tourist attractions, while some serve as accommodation, from luxury hotels to one of the best youth hostels in Germany. A small number aren’t open to visitors.

TOP TIP: It would take a considerable time to visit all the Rhine river castles, but one way of at least seeing most of them is to join one of the Rhine river cruises running between Koblenz and Rüdesheim, or perhaps a shorter one from Boppard or Bacharach.

See Also: 17 of the Most Beautiful Landscapes in Europe

Marksburg Castle

Marksburg Castle is the archetypal Rhine river castle, atop a steep forested hill above the extraordinarily pretty Rhine town of Braubach.

It’s also possibly the best example you’ll ever see of a completely intact medieval castle, which survived through the Middle Ages, the Thirty Years and later vicissitudes without so much as a stone out of place.

The Eppstein family built Marksburg, beginning in the early 12th century, and sold it in 1283 to the powerful Katzenelnbogen family. When the male line died out in 1429 it passed to the Counts of Hesse, who built the outer walls and towers.  

Marksburg is the most complete castle on the Rhine in terms of what you see during your visit. This takes in defensive positions with cannons, a garden, living quarters and the great hall, the main meeting place in the castle.  

Good to know: A visit to Marksburg Castle is by guided tour only. In summer there are only two English language tours a day, so you have the option of joining a German language tour and following it with a text in English. This isn’t the best way to enjoy a castle, so having paid for my ticket I was able to join a Rhine cruise party tour in English. Which was most enjoyable.

Nearest town or village : Braubach

Open for visits: Yes

Getting there: Trains from either Koblenz (in the direction of Frankfurt) or Rüdesheim call at Braubach, from which it’s a 15-20 minute uphill walk to Marksburg.

Stolzenfels Castle

Schloss Stolzenfels is a white neo-Gothic palace residence built by Friedrich Wilhelm IV of Prussia overlooking the Rhine to the south if Koblenz.

It was built on the site of the ruin of a medieval castle, and Frederick William IV, who also restored Rheinstein Castle upriver, was set on an extravagant white wedding cake chateau. It’s similar to the famous Hluboka Castle in the Czech Republic, which it pre-dates by a few years and which it may well have influenced.     

Famous German architect Karl Friedrich Schinkel (responsible for some of the most famous buildings in Berlin and Potsdam) helped plan the Castle, and Peter Joseph Lenne designed the gardens.

Location: 5 km (3 miles)

Open for visit: Yes

Getting there: Bus 670 between Koblenz and Boppard stops below the Castle (the stop name is Koblenz Stolzenfels Schlossweg) every half hour.

Liebenstein Castle and Sterrenberg Castle

Just above the village of Kamp-Bornhofen, on the right bank of the Rhine, two medieval castles stand on the ridge above the river, just 200 metres apart.

They are the closest Rhine Castles, and are the subject of one of the most popular Rhine legends. The Castles are called the Feuding Brothers or Hostile Brothers, the gist of the story being that one estranged brother built a castle as close to his rival sibling as possible. Heinrich Heine mentions this in his famous poem Zwei Brüder (‘Two Brothers’).

It’s possible that the truth is more prosaic. Sterrenberg Castle is the older of the two, possibly by as much as 200 years, and Liebenstein Castle may have been built as an extension or annexe of the older castle, most likely in the late 13 th century. At some point the castles had different owners, but there is no historical record of the two castles ever having fought each other.

The higher and more recent of the two is Burg Liebenstein, which now serves as a small hotel with a café and restaurant.

Burg Sterrenberg also offers apartment accommodation, as well as a café and restaurant, and hosts events and weddings.

Nearest village : Kamp-Bornhofen

Open for visits : Not as a museum, but you can stay at either Castle or visit their respective restaurants and cafés.

Getting there:   The nearest stationis Kamp-Bornhofen, almost a 2 km walk away. Otherwise it’s easily reached by car – turn off the main B42 road near the prominent monastery church

Tip: The best views of the ‘Feuding Brothers’ are either from the river or the opposite bank, at the village of Bad Salzig.

Burg Stahleck Castle

Burg Stahleck, which towers above the Rhine and the gorgeous village of Bacharach , was first built in the 12 th century, and saw plenty of action, especially during the Thirty Years War in the 17 th century.

Much of the Castle was destroyed by French forces in 1689, and the explosions also caused the ruin of the Werner Chapel at the foot of the hill.

Burg Stahleck was then left in ruin until the early 20 th century, when it was rebuilt as a youth hostel. It’s an incredible setting for a hostel, and even if you’re not staying it’s worth the walk up the hill to have a drink on the terrace and savour the view up the river. Bacharach is stunning – one of the most beautiful villages in Europe .

Nearest town: Bacharach

Open for visits : No museum or tour available

Getting there : Train to Bacharach then an uphill walk, otherwise a short drive from the town.

Burg Maus – Mouse Castle

One of the few medieval castles on the Rhine river to survive into the modern era largely unscathed, Peterseck – also later known as Deuernburg – Castle was built by the Archbishop-Elector of Trier, Bohemond II, in the 1350s.

The Electors of Trier were rivals of the House of Katzenelnbogen, who owned Burg Rheinfels (see below) in St Goar, and they also built Burg Katz (also see below) in 1371 to gain more of a share in river toll revenue.

The Katzenelnbogen faction disparagingly referred to Deuernburg as Maus Castle (the ‘mouse’ to their ‘cat’). The name has well and truly stuck, but it outlasted both its rivals, eventually requiring restoration in the early 20 th century.

Nearest village : Wellmich 2 miles north of St Goarshausen

Open for visits : Not at present. It is occasionally open for concerts and wine-tasting events. The Castle doesn’t have an up-to-date website, so it’s best to keep an eye on the Loreley-Touristik site, which publicizes these events.

Getting there :  Burg Maus can be reached by footpath from the village of Wellmich. However at the time of writing it’s best appreciated from afar, ideally on a Rhine river cruise.

Rheinfels Castle

Rheinfels Castle is the most substantial and impressive of the ruined Rhine river castles. It looms above the river and the village of St Goar , and was the largest castle on the Upper Middle Rhine Valley – only around a quarter of the buildings remain.

Rheinfels is also one of the older Rhine river castles, having been founded in 1245 by Dieter V of Katzenelnbogen.  It is my son’s favourite castle on the Rhine, and he was particularly taken with the vast cellar (pictured), which he re-imagined as a giant dungeon housing a captured carnivorous beast. Nowadays it makes a wonderfully atmospheric venue for concerts.

We also enjoyed the opportunity to climb the towers and wall walks and explore the many corners of the Castle.  

We also had a great time looking around the museum and found an unexpected piece of relatively recent history. My son loves collecting notes and coins from around the world, and was fascinated by the sight on a one billion mark note from the disastrous galloping inflation of the 1920s Weimar Republic.

Some of the Castle’s outbuildings avoided destruction and now form the Schloss Hotel Rheinfels, a 4-star hotel with superb views over one of the most scenic stretches of the Rhine.

Nearest town: St Goar

Open for visits: Yes. The ticket gives you access to the extensive ruins and the small Museum within the Castle, which gives you a good  insight into local and regional history.

Getting there:   Train to St Goar (note that only the RB 26 service between Koblenz Hbf and Mainz Hbf stops there), then a 10-15 minute walk up the hill to the Castle.

Burg Katz is one of the most romantic Rhine river castles, occupying a strategic hilltop close to the famous Lorelei cliff.

Its name is an abbreviation of Burg Neu Katzenelnbogen, the name of the founder, Count Wilhelm II of Katzenelnbogen, but it’s commonly known as Burg Katz, or Cat Castle. The same family also owned Burg Rheinfels, across the river above St Goar.

It was founded, like numerous other Rhine river castles, as a toll castle, collecting payments from boat pilots using the river. Burg Katz was begun in 1371, with the aim of earning revenue that would otherwise have gone into the coffers of the Elector of Trier (for more on the cat and Mouse story, see the Maus Castle description above).    

The oldest part of the castle is the tower, the equivalent of a keep in a British castle or a donjon in a French castle. The great hall and other parts of the Castle were rebuilt in the 19 th century.

It has been in private ownership since the 1980s so unfortunately it’s not open for visits. However, its location makes it one of the most picturesque castles on the river Rhine, and worthy of a short hike to fully appreciate it.

I followed the long-distance Rheinsteig trail from St Goarshausen up the side valley opposite Burg Katz,

Nearest town or village: St Goarshausen

Open for visits: No

Getting there: Train or ferry to St Goarshausen. The Castle is closer to the St Goar to St Goarshausen ferry wharf than the train station.

The best view of the Castle is from the village of Patersburg, which you can either reach on foot or by car. If you follow the Rheinblick (Rhine View) road along the hilltop, the view of Burg Katz gets better and better. You can walk as far as the Dreiburgenblick (Three Castles Viewpoint), from which you can also see Burg Maus and Burg Rheinfels, but the best Burg Katz view is a little before this.

Gutenfels Castle

Burg Gutenfels is a classic Rhine river castle, perched high above the river and overlooking steep terraced vineyards. It was founded around 1220, with the purpose of exacting tolls from passing river traffic, and this was later done in co-operation with the town of Kaub and the island castle of Pfalzgrafenstein (see below).

The Castle has recently re-opened as a small hotel / B&B following a period as a private residence.

Nearest town: Kaub

Getting there: Train to Kaub, then Gutenfels Castle is a kilometre away, mostly uphill.

Open to visit : Not for tours but you can stay there. Burg Gutenfels is one of the best castle hotels on the Rhine river, with just five luxury rooms and apartments and extraordinary views along the river, towards Schloss Pfalzgrafenstein in one direction and Oberwesel in the other.

Schloss Pfalzgrafenstein

This island castle in the middle of the river is one of the best Rhineland castles and most famous landmarks in Germany.  Pfalzgrafenstein Castle is one of the most picturesque castles you’ll see anywhere in Europe, a distinctive white fortress with black cupola, spires and turrets, and one of the highlights of any river Rhine cruise.

As is the case with many other castles along the river Rhine, it was built as a toll castle, and there is probably no better strategic spot along the gorge of the Rhine than this one.

There was far less chance of taking flight without paying the required toll with the castle in the middle of the river, with only a narrow navigable channel between it and the riverbank.

Schloss Pfalzgrafenstein had a unique way of enforcing payment of river tolls – a chain which would block access downriver until the trader paid up.

The small castle was built in 1326-27 by King Ludwig the Bavarian, and was acquired by the powerful local Counts of Katzenelnbogen in 1477. It was expanded as late as 1755, and remained in use until 1866.

The garrison at Pfalzgrafenstein worked in conjunction with the town of Kaub and Gutenfels Castle in their toll collection operation.

The small Pfalz castle was also used as a bridging point by Prussian General Blücher as his forces marched east in pursuit of Napoleon Bonaparte. A plaque near the ferry crossing jetty on the Oberwesel side commemorates this.     

Nearest village : Kaub

Open for visit: Yes.

Getting there : Train to Kaub then a ferry to the Castle.

Schönburg Castle

Schönburg Castle (not to be confused with a namesake in Saxony-Anhalt!) is one of the most splendid Rhine gorge castles, located high above the beautiful town of Oberwesel.

It is believed to be one of the older Rhine river castles, most likely founded in the 12 th century although some suggest it may be older still. It was one of the most formidable castles on the Rhine, and stayed intact until 1689 when it was burned down by French forces during the Palatinate War.

Schönburg remained ruined for over 200 years until the German-American Rhinelander family bought and restored the site, later selling it back to the town council of Oberwesel in 1950.

Nearest town : Oberwesel

Open for visits:  The Castle is now a Hotel , and non-guests can visit the site, walk around the grounds and visit the small Tower Museum (which was unfortunately closed when I visited).

Getting there: Train to Oberwesel, then a 10-15 minute uphill walk. Or drive.

Sooneck Castle

The impressive Rhine castle Burg Sooneck sits high above the left bank of the river between the villages of Niederheimbach and Trechtingshausen.  

There was a castle on the site between 1270 and 1280, which was destroyed in 1282 by King Rudolf I. Another castle was eventually built there around 1346, and this was inhabited by four different families, including the Waldeck and Breidbach zu Burresheim. The latter took over sole tenancy in 1553.

The forces of Louis XIV slighted the castle in 1689, and it remained a ruin until Frederick William IV of Prussia acquired it in 1834. They rebuilt it as a hunting lodge, a rather humble description for one of the finest romantic Rhine river castles.

Nearest village: It’s roughly halfway between Niederheimbach and Trechtingshausen

Getting there: Train to either Niederheimbach or Trechtingshausen

Reichenstein Castle

Burg Reichenstein , just outside the village of Trechtingshausen, is one of the larger Rhine river castles, occupying a large site overlooking the river.

The Castle is a lot more developed than neighbouring Burg Rheinstein, but I’d make the effort to see both if you’re in the vicinity. The castle’s origins go back to the 13 th century, but the first castle was destroyed at the behest of Rudolf von Habsburg, who ordered that it should not be rebuilt.  

Once Rudolf was no more a new Reichenstein Castle was indeed built, and this was under the control of the Electors of Mainz until around 1500 when its condition deteriorated following the Palatine Wars.

It wasn’t rebuilt until 1834, and industrialist Nikolaus Kirsch-Puricelli rebuilt it as a grand residence between 1899 and 1902.

My son accompanied me on my trip to Rheinstein and Reichenstein, and he succinctly summed up what I also felt. He said that Rheinstein was more atmospheric, though Reichenstein was possibly better for kids because they have a dressing-up room where you  don a knight’s armour and, as in our case, have loads of fun looking very silly.

Nearest village : Trechtingshausen

Open for visits : Yes

Getting there: Train to Trechtingshausen then a 10-minute walk. If you’re driving, the car park is just off the main B9 road that runs along the left bank of the Rhine.

Rheinstein Castle

Burg Rheinstein is one of the best castles on the Rhine to visit. It is one of the most picturesque castles on the river, perched on a high rocky ledge with amazing views down the Rhine gorge.

Rheinstein Castle was built in the 1320s and is believed to have been a fiefdom of the Archbishops of Mainz for much of its working life. It eventually fell into disrepair then ruin, and was bought in 1823 by Prince Friedrich Wilhelm Ludwig of Prussia, who made it his principal residence.

It was the first Rhineland castle to be restored in the wake of the Romantic revival in the early 19 th century, and there is a wealth of things to see there, with some sumptuous interiors and magnificent views from the garden and the path behind the castle. It has been in the ownership of the local Hecher family since 1975.

Getting there: Train to Trechtingshausen then a 30-minute walk. If you’re walking to the Castle from the station, walk along the quieter road between the river and the main road.  This will save you a potentially long wait at the level crossing below Reichenstein Castle – you need to cross this as the pedestrian path runs out on the main road after this point.

If you’re driving, the car park is just off the main B9 road that runs along the left bank of the Rhine.

A steep zig-zag path leads from the road to the castle.

Burg Ehrenfels Castle, Rüdesheim

Burg Ehrenfels is one of the most famous Rhine castle ruins, standing at the corner of the river opposite the Binger Mäuseturm just west of Rüdesheim.

It was built in the 13 th century by Philip III of Bolanden, and passed it over to the Archbishop of Mainz after his death. Its story mirrors those of many other Rhine River Castles – it was used variously as a toll castle (in conjunction with the Mouse Tower in the river), and later was destroyed by troops of French King Louis XIV during the Palatine Wars of Succession.

You can only get to Ehrenfels Castle on foot, but the ruin is closed indefinitely as a pair of falcons have their nest in the Castle.

Location : 3 km (2 miles) west of Rüdesheim

Open for visit: You can walk right up to the Castle, but the ruin itself is closed.

Getting there:  By footpath from either Rüdesheim or Assmannshausen

Binger Mäuseturm – Bingen Mouse Tower

The ‘Mouse Tower’ on an island in the Rhine near Bingen is, like many places along the river, the subject of legend.

The site may have been used back in Roman times, and was eventually rebuilt by Hatto II, Archbishop of nearby Mainz, in 968.  As with many Rhine river castles, it was used to collect customs tolls from river traffic (from 1298 onwards), and was destroyed by the French in 1689, and rebuilt as a signal tower by the Prussians in 1855.

According to legend, Hatto II was a cruel, vindictive ruler who, in 974 held a monopoly on grain during a food shortage. He told some peasants to meet him in a barn where he promised to deliver them food, only to lock them in and set fire to the barn, burning them all alive.  On hearing the agonised cries of those trapped  inside, he is supposed to have said, ’’Hear the mice squeak!’’

However, Hatto was to get his comeuppance. He was attacked by a plague of mice which chased him across the river to his tower. They gnawed through the door and then ate him. Similar tales have been told about other cruel rulers meeting their demise, so it’s possible this is no more than a folk parable.

Location: 2 km west of Bingen town centre, in the middle of the River Rhine

Open for visit: Rarely. But it’s visible from either side of the river at any time.

Getting there : One of the best viewpoints of the Mouse Tower is from Park am Mäuseturm, a 5-minute walk from Bingen Hauptbahnhof (Bingen Hbf) train station.

Brömserburg, Rüdesheim am Rhein

Rüdesheim , the most famous of the Rhine river towns, is home to three Rhine river castles – two on the edge of the town, and another next to the river two miles downstream.

The stout, sturdy Brömserburg is one of the oldest Rhine river castles, believed to have been founded up to a thousand years ago. The surviving Castle tower probably dates from the late 12 th century.

Named after a family that managed the Castle, only one tower out of what was probably a larger complex now remains. It’s also possible that it was a riverfront Castle, as it’s on flat land close to the riverbank, with the railway now separating it from the Rhine. 

Since 1950 it has been home to the Rheingau Wine Museum, which, at the time of writing, is closed for restoration and refurbishment.

Location: Rüdesheim

Open for visit : Usually yes – but closed at the time of writing (December 2022) for restoration.

Getting there : A 5-minute walk from Rüdesheim train station.

Boosenburg, Rüdesheim

The Boosenburg is barely 100 metres from the Brömserburg, but has quite a different story to tell.

It is sometimes called the Oberburg (upper castle) as it is on slightly higher ground than the Brömserburg. The tall tower was probably built by the local knight, Lord Fuchs of Rüdesheim, and the small castle was named after the Boos von Waldeck family who owned it from the late 15 th century until 1830. The Gothic Revival-style house was added later in the 19 th century.  

It is now the headquarters of Carl Jung, winemakers who invented the process of making alcohol-free wine (not to be confused with the Swiss psychoanalyst of the same name!).

Open for visit : No.

Klopp Castle, Bingen

It’s believed that the hill on which Klopp Castle stands has been used as a fortress since Roman times, and a castle stood there in the early 12 th century. It later came into the ownership of the Archbishops of Mainz, who used it to levy tolls on Rhine river traffic.

It was then destroyed three times within a century due to wars in the area, and was one of the first Romantic Rhine ruins to capture visitors’ imagination. The bergfried – central tower – was built in the mid-19 th century, and the other buildings followed later.

The Castle now houses the town council’s offices, but you can still visit the Castle and climb the tower from April to October.

Location: Bingen

Open for visit : Yes

Getting there: It’s a 5-minute uphill walk from Bingen-Stadtbahnhof railway station.

How to Get Around the Rhine Valley

When planning a Rhineland trip, the first thing you need to bear in mind is that there are no bridges across the river Rhine between Koblenz and Rüdesheim. 

The B9 road runs along the left bank (west side) of the Rhine, passing through Koblenz, Boppard, Oberwesel, Bacharach and Bingen, across the river from Rüdesheim. Trains between Koblenz and Mainz run along the same route.

The B42 runs along the right bank (east side) of the Rhine valley, passing Braubach, Kaub, St Goarshausen and Lorch before reaching Rüdesheim am Rhein. Again, trains follow the same route.

You can cross the river on five ferries, which take cars and foot passengers.   There are five routes for river Rhine ferries which simply cross from one side of the river to the other – these are as follows:

• Boppard to Filsen
• St Goar – St Goarshausen
• Kaub to Engelsburg
• Lorch – Niederheimbach
• Bingen to Rüdesheim

Explore more of our articles on Germany here:

• 20 Best Things To Do In Saarbrücken – discover the capital of Saarland
• Völklingen Ironworks – outstanding World Heritage Site near the French border
• Beilstein Mosel Valley – exquisite wine village, one of the most beautiful in Germany
• Things To Do In Trier – 26 things to do in Germany’s oldest city
• Porta Nigra Trier – amazing 2nd century AD Roman city gate that later became a ‘double church’
• Trier Cathedral – magnificent World Heritage Cathedral, the oldest north of the Alps
• Roscheider Hof Museum Trier – brilliant open air museum on rural life in western Germany
• Photographing Berlin – the best 15 places to photograph in Berlin
• Berlin Landmarks – 21 Top Attractions In Berlin

David Angel is a British photographer, writer and historian. He is a European travel expert with over 30 years’ experience exploring Europe. He has a degree in History from Manchester University, and his work is regularly featured in global media including the BBC, Condé Nast Traveler, The Guardian, The Times, and The Sunday Times.  David is fluent in French and Welsh, and can also converse in Italian, German, Portuguese, Spanish, Czech and Polish.

Castles along the Rhine

• Get inspired by the possibilities.
• Build your ideal trip.
• Visit Kaysersberg, one of the most picturesque villages in the region
• Wander through Strasbourg, the historic town with its cobbled lanes
• Experience the exclusive tasting of estate-grown Rieslings at Castle Vollrads
• Explore stunningly medieval Marksburg Castle in Koblenz
• Wine Tasting
• Archaeological Site Visits
• Village Visits
• River Cruises
• Netherlands
• Rhine River
• Switzerland
• European Union

Full Itinerary

Day 1: basel | embark.

• Accommodation

Day 2: Breisach

• 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

Day 3: Kehl (Strasbourg)

Day 4: mannheim (speyer), day 5: rüdesheim | boppard, day 6: boppard | koblenz, day 7: cologne, day 8: amsterdam | disembark.

• 1 Breakfast

S.S. Antoinette

Dates & prices, my preferred start date.

Initial deposit is 15% of cruise fare plus any additional port charges, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.

Final payment is due 130 days prior to departure by Check or credit card. All final payments by credit card may be subject to a surcharge and maximum of $20,000 charge

See our general terms and conditions:

• Adventure Life Terms & Conditions

We are an agent for one or more providers on this trip with specific cancellation policies and terms:

• Uniworld - Terms & Conditions 2022 - Uniworld
• Uniworld - Terms & Conditions 2023 - Uniworld

For full cancellation policy details, please contact us for a quote.

• 7 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 7 Dinners
• 7 Nights Accommodations
• Accommodations as listed
• Ground transportation as listed
• Activities as listed
• Meals as listed
• Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
• Bilingual English-speaking guide
• Unlimited Wifi
• All gratuities, shipboard and shoreside 
• Bicycles & Hiking Sticks equipment if needed
• Captain’s Welcome and Farewell Receptions
• Unlimited beverages onboard, including fine wine, beer, spirits, specialty coffee and tea, soft drinks, and mineral water
• Guided “Do as the Locals Do” and “Let's Go” programs
• State-of-the-art Quietvox portable audio-headset system on all excursions
• Cultural enrichment, including a Signature Lecture
• Travel Insurance
• Personal Expenses
• Flight costs (please request a quote)
• Additional excursions during free time
• Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
• Airport Tax
• Excess baggage charges
• Passport or Visa fees

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The Best Castles to Visit Along the Rhine River

July 11th, 2023, must visit castles on your next rhine river cruise, 1. marksburg castle, 2. burg eltz.

Situated in a secluded valley near the Moselle River, Burg Eltz is one of the most picturesque and well-preserved castles in Germany. With its fairytale-like appearance, this medieval castle is surrounded by lush forests and is open to visitors.

3. Rheinfels Castle

4. heidelberg castle, 5. schönburg castle.

Situated in Oberwesel, Germany, Schönburg Castle is a medieval fortress turned hotel. With its stunning location overlooking the Rhine River and the town of Oberwesel, it offers a unique opportunity to stay in a castle while enjoying the river views.

6. Cochem Castle

Perched on a hill above the town of Cochem, Germany, Cochem Castle (Reichsburg Cochem) is a striking medieval castle. Take a guided tour to explore its interior, which is beautifully furnished and offers fantastic views of the Moselle Valley.

7. Burg Katz and Burg Maus

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Castles on the Rhine: Family Riverboat Adventure

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Uniquely Tauck

EXPERIENCE WITH TAUCK

TAUCK EXCLUSIVE – Private medieval evening including tour and dinner at a historic moated castle, Burg Satzvey

TAUCK VALUE INCLUDES

Tauck's private shore excursions and distinctive inclusions valued at $2,358

All gratuities to Tauck Director, local guides and drivers

Descending Mt. Pilatus aboard the world's highest cogwheel train with sweeping views of the Swiss Alps

Tarte flambée, chocolate and French lessons – become "French for a Day"

Bicycling through forests and vineyards beside the Rhine

Visit to the legendary ruins of Heidelberg Castle

SEE WHAT YOUR JOURNEY INCLUDES

Guests should be able to easily walk one to two miles, which may include climbing one or two flights of stairs and walking over uneven pavement, groomed hiking trails or cobblestones. Standing up to one hour or more may be required.

Moderately paced, and may include some early morning hotel departures, one or two on-tour flights, and extended motor coach travel.

World Travel. Family Discovery.

Create cherished family memories on our unforgettable Basel to Amsterdam riverboat cruise along the Rhine River, exploring Switzerland, France, Germany and The Netherlands for an adventure unlike any other.

Tauck exclusive – an evening at burg satzvey, cross the moat for a special, family-fun evening at burg satzvey.

Considered one of the best-preserved medieval moated castles in Germany's North Rhine-Westphalia region, Burg Satzvey (Satzvey Castle), not far from Köln, has been home to the same noble family for more than 300 years. We invite you to cross the moat and visit this rustic 12th-century castle after hours for a Tauck Exclusive tour and medieval evening with a reception, dinner and musical entertainment… and a welcome by a member of the family.

Mt. Pilatus

Descending from mt. pilatus by cogwheel train or gondola.

Since the 1880s, the world's steepest cogwheel train has been bringing travelers up and down Mt. Pilatus in Switzerland, descending or ascending nearly 7,000 ft. to the edge of Lake Lucerne from the mountain's summit (Oberhaupt). On your family's visit to Lucerne, you'll take this thrilling ride that has you traveling upward at a 48° angle. Or, if the weather is uncooperative, you may ascend and descend by gondola (cable car). Either way, getting there is definitely part of the fun, and your family is rewarded with panoramic views of Alpine meadows and mountain streams, and flowers.

Old World Europe – Rhine River cruises

The casualness and playfulness of the staff was great. they made every activity fun for everyone. it really bridged the gap between the young and elderly..

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About Booking This Tour

Travel Documents

If you are a U.S. citizen traveling internationally, you will need a passport valid for six months beyond the completion of your Tauck journey for entry into Germany, Switzerland, France and the Netherlands. You are not required to obtain a visa to enter any of these countries for the short duration of this tour.

If you are a citizen of another country traveling internationally, you should contact an embassy of each of the countries visited – Germany, Switzerland, France and the Netherlands – to determine what travel documentation is required.

Please note that longer stays abroad for any purpose may require additional travel documentation.

We recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents are misplaced, lost or stolen.

To facilitate Travel Requirements, destinations are increasingly utilizing online forms that require digital proof that you've successfully completed your submission (via an email, QR code, etc.) To ensure smooth travels and peace of mind, we strongly recommend all guests carry a personal smart phone and sign up for international data plans before traveling overseas.

Note: For activities marked with an asterisk (*) in day-by-day descriptions, participation is at your own risk; a signed liability waiver will be required.

Cruise Regulations

International maritime security guidelines require that your passport information be provided to us prior to your embarkation. You need to provide this information to us as soon as you book your cruise or boarding may be denied. Once you board the riverboat, your passport will be held by the purser temporarily to make copies.

TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN AS A GUARDIAN: If you are traveling as the guardian of a child/children, we strongly suggest that you carry a letter from both parents of the child authorizing emergency treatment in the event of illness or accident. For travel abroad, many foreign countries have specific entry requirements for children under 21 who are traveling internationally without BOTH parents. (These requirements are in response to the increased incidence of children being abducted and taken abroad.) PLEASE NOTE THAT TAUCK IS NOT RESPONSIBLE for the disruption of travel caused by improper documentation for children traveling without both parents.

How to Book a Tour

See your travel advisor, or call Tauck at 800-468-2825 to make a reservation.

At the time of booking, please have the following information ready for all members of your party:

• Tour Name and Departure Date
• Traveler's Name: First and last names as they appear on your passport or driver's license
• Traveler's Address(es)
• Email Address*
• Traveler's Phone Number(s)*
• Emergency Contact Information: Please provide the name and phone number  of a relative or friend (not travelling with you) whom we could contact during the tour in the unlikely event of an emergency
• Interest in purchasing a travel protection plan (US and Canada)
• Interest in extending your trip by staying in a Tauck recommended hotel before your trip begins or after it ends
• Interest in our specially negotiated airfares

* Required Fields

Deposits & Final Payment

The deposit and the fees for the optional Protection Plan or Cancel Fee Waiver [CFW] coverage are due at time of booking.

The deposit amount is $900 per person

Final Payments:

Final Payment is due to Tauck  60  days before departure for lands trips, and  120  days before departure for cruises and rail journeys. If your deposit was made by credit card, final payment will be automatic unless you opted out at time of booking. Bookings without full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice. Failure to make payment will be a considered a cancellation by the guest and all applicable cancellation fees will apply.

Cruise Protection Plan

Effective for plans purchased as of July 1, 2021:

Tauck's Cruise and Event Protection

Tauck's Cruise & Event Protection provides you with cancellation protection before your journey begins as well as insurance benefits while you are traveling. It must be purchased within 10 days of your initial deposit. Guest Protection includes the following:

Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck:

Under Tauck's Cancellation Fee Waiver you can cancel your tour for ANY REASON and Tauck will  reduce the regular cancellation fees outlined herein, provided we are notified of cancellation before your cruise departs. Certain terms and restrictions apply (see below*).

*Extreme Circumstances:  In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey.  Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company.

• Trip Cancellation –  Should you cancel for covered reasons, the plan reimburses cancellation fees imposed, up to your total trip cost. 
• Trip Interruption –  If you have to interrupt your tour for covered reasons, the plan provides reimbursement to catch up to your tour or return home.
• Travel Delay –  Provides reimbursement for missed, prepaid travel arrangements if you are delayed by a common carrier, natural disaster, unannounced strike, or other reasons as cited in the plan.
• Medical Expense –  Reimburses covered medical expenses incurred in the event you become injured or sick during your trip. 
• Baggage / Personal Effects Protection –  Provides reimbursement in the event your luggage or personal effects are, lost, stolen, damaged or delayed during your trip.

Worldwide Emergency Assistance Services –  Provided by Carefree Travel Assistance; 24-hour emergency telephone assistance hotline for medical and travel related problems.

The cost of Tauck's Cruise and Event Protection is:   $659   per person

This plan provides cancellation coverage for your trip and other insurance coverages that apply only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

This optional Cruise and Event Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included in initial payment. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your reservation. Cruise and Event Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.

If You Have To Cancel

If you cancel within 10 days of initial deposit

Within the first 10 days after you place your initial deposit, you may cancel your reservation for any reason with no cancellation fees.

If you cancel more than 10 days after initial deposit

Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. These fees vary from tour to tour. Therefore, the following fees apply for this tour.

Cancellation Fees with Tauck's Cruise Protection Plan:

120 days or more before departure: Loss of cost of Tauck's Cruise and Event Protection fee per person 119 – 60 days before departure: Loss of 25% of the cost of the cruise, not including air (if applicable), plus loss of Cruise and Event Protection fee, per person 59 – 1 days before departure: Loss of 50% of the cost of the cruise, not including air (if applicable), plus loss of Cruise and Event Protection fee, per person Cancellation Fees without Tauck's Cruise Protection Plan: 120 days or more before departure: $900 per person 119 – 60 days before departure: Loss of 50% of the cost of cruise, not including air (if applicable), per person 59 - 1 days before departure: Loss of 100% of the cost of cruise, not including air (if applicable), per person Time of cancellation will be when notice is received in our Wilton Woods, CT office.

Tour Interruption Fees

If you have to interrupt your tour en route, you may be entitled to a refund for the unused land portion if it exceeds 24 hours; certain restrictions apply. Such refunds are based upon the number of overnights missed less a fee of $40 per person per day for unused transportation and other fixed expenses.

Partial Room Cancellation

A person who cancels or leaves a tour while a roommate remains constitutes a cancellation of one type of accommodation and rebooking of another type of accommodation. The price charged to the remaining person is the new, higher price for the new accommodation.

In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control, Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation and transfer terms outlined herein. Note: All Guests, regardless of residency, who book a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing the Cancellation Waiver provided by Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck's Cruise & Event Protection, which includes both the Cancellation Fee Waiver and the Travel Insurance Benefits and Assistance Services described above, is not available to residents of Puerto Rico.

Travel Terms and Conditions

Click here  to find Tauck's Travel Terms & Conditions.

Travel Requirements For This Tour

Air Information and Luggage Restrictions

AIRFARE: Airfare to and from this destination is not included in the journey cost. If purchasing your air elsewhere, it is very important to provide us with your confirmed arriving and departing flight information no later than 3 weeks before your arrival date. Flight information can be submitted to Tauck (or verified, if you've already provided it) in the My Account section of Tauck.com.

TAUCK AIRPORT TRANSFERS are included at the start and end of the journey between the airport and the Tauck hotel. Airport transfers are available for any pre tour or post tour hotel stays immediately consecutive to the tour, providing flight information is received in the Tauck office no later than three weeks in advance. Details on locating your transfer upon arrival to the tour start city will be included in your final documents.

AIRLINES and CHECKED LUGGAGE: Due to space limitations during your Tauck journey, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one average-size suitcase per person. Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and are free to revise luggage policies without notice. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies. PLEASE NOTE that if you are booked on a tour that includes on-tour flights, the checked luggage weight restrictions for these flights may be lower than the weight restrictions for your international flights.

Checked Luggage – General

Due to space restrictions, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one suitcase per person weighing no more than 50 pounds (23 kg) and with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 62 inches (158 cm).

Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and luggage exceeding airline standards for size or weight may result in expensive overage fees or other consequences.

Airlines are free to revise luggage policies without notice, and certain airlines have different baggage allowances for different classes of service. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies.

Tauck luggage tags will be provided by your Tauck Director on Day 1 of your itinerary. Please do not attach a Tauck luggage tag to any carry-on items, as the Tauck tags designate luggage that is to be handled and transferred by ground operators and hotel staff during your journey.

Carry-on Luggage - General

Although oversize bags and wheeled, carry-on luggage are popular for airline travel, they are often not convenient or appropriate for motor coach travel or for many on-tour flights. Most modern sightseeing motor coaches offer limited space for numerous or larger items. Space under seats or in the overhead rack is typically small, and designed to accommodate items like coats, hats, purses, and small camera bags, etc.

For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and that you bring only those items you need handy during the day such as make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or on the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may be inaccessible during daytime travel.

Health Safety and Mobility

HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS

On board the riverboat, smoking is permitted in a limited area of the Sun deck. Smoking is not permitted in any cabin, the restaurant, the lounge or any other interior space.

Your riverboat is registered in Basel, Switzerland. Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour.

Please advise your Tauck Director on tour if you or the children traveling with you have any serious allergies. Also, adults may want to bring along children's aspirin or medicines as a precaution, as access to these may be limited.

If you have a medical condition that might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify us as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly.

VACCINATIONS  

If you are a resident of the U.S., no other vaccinations are currently required for travel to Germany, Switzerland, France and the Netherlands. For complete vaccination and inoculation information, contact your physician, the public health service in your area, or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia. The Travelers' Health Section of the CDC operates a 24-hour "Travelers' Health Hotline" at 800-232-4636 (toll-free in the U.S.). You may also log on to the CDC website by clicking here .

If you are a resident of another country, please contact an embassy or consulate of Germany, France, Switzerland and the Netherlands to determine whether vaccinations are required for your travel.

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUESTS

The restaurants, hotels, caterers and numerous other partners we work with all do their best to accommodate special dietary requests from Tauck guests. However, given the diverse nature of those food providers (from small wineries to grand hotels to world-famous restaurants in more than 70 countries worldwide), some of our partners are better able than others to accommodate such requests. We therefore cannot guarantee that all dietary requests can be accommodated at every meal. Also, please note that where dietary requests can be accommodated, choices will frequently be limited.

While a cruise on the Rhine is very relaxing and the pace leisurely, to enjoy this cruise, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances, often over unpaved and uneven surfaces. Some of the most memorable sightseeing can only be accomplished on foot. There is a moderate to significant amount of walking during our excursions, often along cobblestone streets, and at many sites there are multiple stairs or steps; for the most part, however, the amount of walking you do is at your discretion.

Your riverboat has four decks: Diamond, Ruby, Emerald, and Sun. The elevator connects the Diamond, Ruby, and Emerald decks. There is no elevator to the Sundeck.

Because you will be cruising on a river and not on the open sea, you are never far from land and, therefore, there is no doctor on board. In case of emergency we can easily dock the boat and call for an ambulance or medical assistance.

PLEASE NOTE: We regret that this Tauck itinerary cannot accommodate wheelchairs or motorized scooters. Likewise, we regret that we're unable to provide individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other personal needs. The responsibility of the Tauck Director who accompanies your trip is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest. Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it.

Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate service animals on any river cruise for medical and legal reasons.

Reading List

We have compiled a reading list of recommended books to give you more information about the destinations you will be traveling to on your upcoming journey!

You can view the reading list  here.

What To Pack

Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – we've partnered with New Headings who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip. Click here to visit their site .

Your journey is designed with leisure in mind. Dress for comfort and convenience with a wardrobe that is flexible and allows for layering. Casual, cotton clothing is always advisable. A light jacket or sweater for the sun deck is also recommended. Pack comfortable yet sturdy walking shoes that have already been broken-in, as many of the sites visited were built centuries ago and have uneven surfaces, some steep inclines and many steps.

During evenings aboard the riverboat, dress is resort casual.  Items such as slacks and collared shirts are appropriate for men.  For women, slacks, a dress or a skirt and blouse are suitable.  For dinner and throughout the evening, guests should refrain from wearing shorts, t-shirts, sandals, flip-flops or sneakers.

Bathrobes, slippers and hairdryers are provided in each riverboat cabin.

Valet laundry service is available on the riverboat for a fee. There is no valet dry cleaning available on the riverboat. Ironing facilities are available on the riverboat by request to the front desk. Category 7 suites feature their own irons and ironing boards.

We recommend that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medication in its original container to last through your entire journey, together with a copy of your doctor's prescription or a letter from your health-care provider on office stationery explaining that the medication has been prescribed for you, a list of the generic names of your medication, your travel documents and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag to avoid any inconvenience in the event that your flight or luggage is delayed. No medications are sold on board the riverboat.

We recommend you pack the following items for your cruise on the Rhine:

• Flat, rubber-soled walking shoes for onboard
• Sturdy but comfortable walking shoes that have already been broken-in for onshore
• Casual daytime wear – shorts, slacks, long and short-sleeved shirts
• An optional jacket and tie for men
• Casually elegant evening wear for ladies
• Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat
• A light sweater or jacket for higher elevations or a breezy night
• Camera, lenses, batteries, memory cards and chargers
• Lightweight, comfortable, sturdy walking shoes that have already been broken-in
• Travel alarm clock/cell phone with alarm function (many hotels do not have clocks in the rooms)
• Rain poncho and collapsible umbrella
• Reusable zipper-lock bags or other waterproof bags
• Daypack for camera equipment
• Sundries and toiletries that may be difficult to find en route
• Copies of your travel documents that should be secured in the safe in your ship cabin while traveling

Each child 17 and under will be sent a complimentary backpack from Tauck Bridges! If the child resides in the continental United States, the backpack will be sent to his or her home approximately two weeks prior to the cruise departure date. If the child resides outside of the continental U.S., including Hawaii and Alaska, the backpack will be waiting on arrival at the first hotel on your itinerary.

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Castles on the Rhine River & Castles You Can Stay in Germany – 2024 Guide

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You are in the right place if you want a guide to the castles on the Rhine river in Germany based on my 6 years of hiking, biking and taking river cruises here. I love it so much my dog’s middle name is Lorelei!

My preference to view the castles on the Rhine is definitely hiking along the Left Bank of this majestic Rhine River by hiking on the Rhine Castles Trail.

But you can view them on a pleasant bike, boat, train or car ride through the enchanting Upper Middle Rhine Valley.

The Castles on the Rhine will surely set your medieval imagination wild.

This UNESCO world heritage site of the Upper Middle Rhine Valley spans 65 kilometers (40 miles) and enchants visitors with castles of the Rhine almost every 2.5 kilometers.

Short on time? No problemo, here’s my favorite things to do and where to stay.

| Explorer Travel Tip

Enjoy some of Rhine Valley’s most beautiful scenery during this Guided Wine Hike Tour . Keep your adventures brimming, but packed lightly of worries!

• Excellent Rooms with Whimsical Touches
• 4 Course Set Menu
• Unbelievable Views and Gardens

What we liked: LGTBQ Friendly 

• Sauna and Wellness Amenities
• Underground Museum
• Delicious Breakfast

What we liked: Located right on a vineyard overlooking Sankt Goar.

• Extremely Hospitable
• Modern Comfort
• Detailed Museum

What we liked: Breakfast overlooking the Rhine River.

Prefer Video? Morgan’s Rhine Castle Hotel Review Video

With its unique geography that offers favorite viticulture, the Upper Middle Rhine Valley offers an intriguing blend of cultures, languages, and experiences.

German Hotel Castles: Stay in a Castle in Germany

Some are ruined fortresses and some castles you can stay in Germany are fully restored castle fairytale hotels like Burg Schönburg with restaurants, taverns, spas and torture museums.

Discover the History of the Rhine River Castles

👉 Read until the end and get a free downloadable printable guide of the castles.

MAP: Castles on the Rhine River (with castle hotels)

Upper Middle Rhine Gorge : A UNESCO World Heritage Site

How to use this map: Use your computer mouse or fingers to zoom in and out. Click on the icons to get more information. Click the arrow on the top left corner for the written index. Click the star next to the title of the map to add this map to your google maps account. To view the saved map on your smartphone or PC, open google maps, click the menu button, and go to “your places”/ “maps.”

Read my detailed guides to the best villages to make your homebase along the Upper Middle Rhine Gorge UNESCO site:

• Best Things to do in Oberwesel
• Best Things to do in Boppard
• Most Fun Things to do in Rudesheim

28 Best Castles on the Rhine

Castles along the rhine river. castles starting from rüdesheim and going “downriver” toward koblenz..

📍Click here to get a Google maps location of each castle.

1. Boosenburg Castle

Rüdesheim am Rhein, Germany

Built 11th century, 38 meter high tower. (-) tours (-) hotel (+) Romanesque

Owned by the winery, not open to the public. In the heart of a cute walking town.

2. Klopp Castle

Bingen am Rhein, Germany

Built in the 13th century, destroyed and rebuilt multiple times. (+) self guided tours (-) hotel (+) medieval/gothic

Home to the local government.

3. Ehrenfels Castle Ruin

Built in the 13th century, home of legends with Maus tower and destroyed by war and fire. (-) tours (-) hotel (+) previous toll castle (+) Romanesque

4. Rheinstein Castle & Hotel

Trechtingshausen, Germany

Built 270 ft above river, Built 10th century, Romantic Ideal of Medieval example. It’s located directly across the Rhine river from the lovely red wine village of Assmannshausen .

(+) tours (+) hotel (+) open to public March – November (+) medieval (+) restaurant

5. Reichenstein Castle & Hotel

Click here to Stay in this Castle Hotel

Lovingly restored, Built 11th century, Neo-Gothic English-Medieval example. Otherwise known as Falkenburg.

(+) tours (+) hotel (+) open to year round except January (+) medieval (+) 3 star restaurant (+) museum (+) armory

6. Sooneck Castle

Neiderheimbach, Germany

Built in the 13th century, 2 times destroyed and rebuilt by Prussians as a hunting lodge, though never used. (+) turrets (-) hotel (+) self tours (+) medieval exterior, neo gothic interior

7. Heimburg Castle

Built in the 11th century, destroyed and rebuilt in the 19th. Gothic Style (-) tours (-) hotel

8. Nollig Tower Ruin

Lorch, Germany

Hilltop fortress ruins and tower built in the 14th century. Private property. (-) tours (-) hotel (+) medieval

9. Fürstenberg Castle Ruin

Oberdiebach, Germany

Hilltop fortress Built 14th century, destroyed Palatine Wars of Succession. Private property. (-) tours (-) hotel (+) medieval

10. Sauerburg Castle (previous Hotel)

Sauerthal, Germany

Previous Hote and Castles on the Rhine, now Private owned.

Lovingly restored castle complex atop a hill, Built 14th century, Medieval example.

(-) tours (+) previous hotel ( (+) medieval

11. Stahleck Castle & Hostel

Bacharach, Germany

Hilltop castle with great views of the river, Built 12th century, destroyed by Louis 14th and the French and rebuilt mid 1800s. Medieval example.

(+) tours of courtyard (+) hostel hotel (+) open to public (+) medieval (+) restaurant

12. Pfalzgrafenstein Castle

Kaub, Germany

Island castle built as a toll castle. Built in the 14th century, built to look like a bow of a boat. (+) guided tours (-) hotel

13. Gutenfels Castle & Hotel

Kaub castle built above town to work as a toll castle together with Pfalzgrafenstein. Built in the 13th century, destroyed once and rebuilt in the late 1800s. Hohenstaufen military and house construction style.

(+) medieval (+) hotel

14. Schönburg Castle & Hotel

Oberwesel, Germany

Stay in this Castle Hotel on Rhine River

Read my post about the top 23 things to do in Oberwesel.

Do you want to stay in a castle on the Rhine in Germany with the best service? Hilltop castle complex with museum. Built in the 12th century, destroyed once and rebuilt in the late 1800s. Romanesque style. (+) medieval (+) hotel (+) restaurant (+) museum

15. Reichenberg Castle Ruin

Reichenberg, Germany

Interesting Mannerist shield wall, ruin and tower built 14th century. Private property. (-) tours (-) hotel (+) medieval

16. Burg Katz

St. Goarshausen, Germany

Built as a military base in the 14th century to protect Rheinfels Castle. Built to oppose Maus castle. Burned, demolished many times and rebuilt. Was a hotel at one point but now private property. (-) tours (+) Previous hotel (+) medieval (+) toll collection

17. Rheinfels Castle & Hotel

Sankt Goar, Germany

Stay at Hotel Schloss Rheinfels : Best Castles on the Rhine River

One of the strongest and biggest Rhine Castles. Hilltop castle complex with museum, hotel, cafe, shops and restaurants. Built in the 13th century, destroyed and rebuilt many times. Medieval and Renaissance style.

(+) medieval (+) hotel (+) restaurant (+) museum

18. Maus Castle

Wellmich, Germany

Known as Thurnberg Castle and one of the most iconic castles on the Rhine River. Nicknamed Maus due to it looking like it was playing cat and mouse from another castle across the river. Has falcon, eagle and owl shows in summer. (+) tours (-) hotel (+) medieval (+) falconry shows in summer.

19. Liebenstein Castle

Kamp-Bornhofen, Germany

Built in the 14th century as a southbank castle on the Rhine. Separated by a wall from Burg Sterrenberg. Highest castle on the Rhine and called “hostile brothers” though no history of actual fighting. Closed hotel and restaurant Jan-April. (+) tours (+) hotel (+) medieval (+) restaurants

20. Sterrenberg Castle

Built in the 11th century. Separated by a wall from Liebenstein Castle. Part of the “hostile brothers” though no history of actual fighting. Also known as While Castle. (-) tours (-) hotel (+) medieval , gothic (+) restaurant tavern.

21. Marksburg Castle

Braubach, Germany

Built in the 13th century and fully intact, not destroyed. (+) daily tours, summer English language tours at 1 pm (-) hotel (+) medieval , gothic (+) restaurant tavern (+) historic shop (+) former prison

22. Martinsburg Castle

Oberlahnstein, Germany

Built in the 14th century and fully intact, not destroyed. Iconic hexagonal tower. previously surrounded by moat. (+) guided tours through city (-) hotel (+) medieval , gothic (-) restaurant (+) toll castle

23. Lahneck Castle & Camping

Lahnstein, Germany

Built in the 13th century, restored in the 18th with fine furniture. (+) guided tours July thru Nov (-) hotel (+) medieval , gothic (+) restaurant (+) pool, camping

24. Stolzenfels Castle & Gardens

Koblenz, Germany

Example of Prussian Rhine Romanticism. Originally built in the 13th century as a toll station but rebuilt in the 18th century into a palace. (+) guided tours (-) hotel (+) gothic revival (+) restaurant (+) palace (+) 5 gardens to tour

25. Ehrenbreitstein Fortress

Known as the Guardian of the Rhine. Originally built in the 11th century as a toll station but rebuilt in the 18th century into a palace. (+) guided tours (-) hotel (+) Classical style (+) 2 restaurants (+) museum (+) gardens (+) cable car access.

Enjoy a Private Guided tour of this UNESCO world heritage site to really soak in the experience.

26. Neuwied Castle

Neuwied, Germany

Built in the 17th century. (-) guided tours (-) hotel (+) Classical style. Not typical of castles on the Rhine River.

27. Namedy Castle

Andernach, Germany

Built 14th century, Destroyed by Swedes and rebuilt in 19th century (-) guided tours (-) hotel (+) Baroque style – -Fairytale Castle (+) corporate parties and events (+) weddings

28. Drachenburg Castle

Königswinter, Germany

Built 1882 in 2 years as a private residence. (+) guided tours (-) hotel (+) Gothic style (+) bistro (+) castle shop

Best Rhine Castle Hotels

Stay in a castle in germany.

Can you stay in a hotel castle on the Rhine river or hostel that is a castle conversion? Yes, fantasy dreams come true in castles of the Rhine.

2 of my friends have had their wedding celebration at one of these gorgeous castles overlooking the river Rhine River in Germany.

• Rheinstein Castle & Hotel
• Reichenstein Castle & Hotel
• Stahleck Castle & Hostel
• Gutenfels Castle & Hotel
• Schönburg Castle & Hotel ***The best!
• Rheinfels Castle & Hotel
• Liebenstein Castle

Discover Castles on the Rhine River with a Free App

Use your phone to discover castles on the rhine as you river cruise, hike or bike along the rhine river in germany..

Free Google Maps Guide : Stay in a castle in Germany.

Location : Upper Middle Rhine Valley, Germany

Where to Stay in a Castle Hotel in Germany

Check out the links here from booking – i always use them for my city and multi-day hikes because they are trustworthy and helpful to keep organized. most castles on the rhine are part of this system., best for river views & private gardens.

Hikers will LOVE the hilltop castle hotel Burg Hotel Schönburg dating back to the year 1000. This castles on the Rhine sits atop the romantic village of Oberwesel with the most hospitable hosts and interesting rooms including hidden bathrooms, towers, trebuchet and a 4 course dinner included with the hotel room.

The Burg Shoenburg hotel is LGBTQ friendly hotel and serves a 4 course dinner and the garden is exceptional. Hella good. Book here.

Best for History Lovers

Burg Rheinfels is one of the largest and most well fortified castles in Germany, boasting multiple restaurants, cafes and museums with guided tours. Located above Sankt Goar next to a steep gorge and vineyard.

For a luxury experience book Burg Rheinfels , sometimes they even forget to charge you for stuff like at my girlfriends wedding where they didn’t even charge for the venue, only the food. You MIGHT get lucky, but don’t count on it.

On a Budget?

Going budget and have an SUV or car? It’s completely legal to sleep in your car (but only one night in each place) in a parking lot. Make it comfortable with a comfy car air mattress.

Best Way to Get to Rhine River Castles

This area is easily accessed by car, train or bus. It is about 45 minutes from Frankfurt International Airport. Use the DB Bahn Navigator app to determine public transportation. Most people will start a river cruise in the town of Bingen and hop on hop off at the different wine villages.

Rhine Castle Trail – Hike it!

The castles on the Rhine Castles Trail spans 196 km (120 miles) on the Left Bank of the Rhine with some incredible views, history, castles and plenty of gorgeous wine villages to make pit stops for food, fun and laughs.

Castles on the Rhine River Germany – Bike It!

Both sides of the Rhine River offer divided safe trails for cyclists, whether long distance or e-bike friendly ladies on a wine tour. The Rhine bike trail actually stretches from the Atlantic ocean to the source of the River Rhine at a shimmering alpine lake at 2,345m in Switzerland.

Germany Adventure Travel

🚠 SUMMER CHAIRLIFTS 🚡 🚠 An easy & relaxing Way to experience the 🇩🇪 German OUTDOORS  🚠 It doesn’t have to be HARD to explore & connect to Nature 🌎. 1️⃣  On the Upper Middle Romantic Rhine UNESCO site: the  Boppard Chairlift  and  Assmannshausen chairlift  offer stunning views of the Rhine River. The Rüdesheim cable car offers wheelchair accessibility. 2️⃣  Flying over the Moselle River : the  Cochem chairlift  takes you over vineyards and slate blue craggy mini-mountains. Just like an e-bike, a bit of technology can make exploring nature more accessible to everyone. ❤️ ♿️

Rhine River Castle Cruise – The Best Way to Cruise the Rhine

Cruises on the rhine river.

This is by far the most popular way to view the scenic Rhein castles. You can see amazing Castles on the Rhine Cruise with multiple operators.

Rhine River Hop on and Hop off boat cruise to check out the adorable villages at each stop.

Rhine River Cruise from Frankfurt with lunch, wine tastings and transportation.

Dinner Cruise on the Rhine River

Want a dinner experience cruising the Rhine River ? Stop in the best named village of all time…Assmannshausen. Yes. This is a real place to view Castles on the Rhine.

German Castle Road Trip

Want more than castles on the Rhine? Nearby, visit the most fairytale-like castle in Germany and take a private tour of Burg Eltz with a delicious dinner included.

“There are more German castles on the Rhine River here in the prettiest part of the Rhine Valley Gorge between Rüdesheim and Koblenz than anywhere else in Germany.

Enchanting Towns with German Castles on the Rhine River

Rüdesheim, Oberwesel and Bacharach top the list of impossibly cute villages filled with half timbered houses, wineries and enchanting medieval towers, castles and battlements. These towns are like stepping back in time to all the best parts.

Best time to view castle along the Rhine River and Castles on the Rhine

May – october.

For river cruises, May through November would be the best, but if hiking or cycling, the trails are accessible year round and but are especially muddy during the winter and shoulder seasons.

Thanks for reading! I hope you enjoy the Castles of the Rhine guide and its endless romantic castles and historic hotels with scenic hikes between them. The castles on the Rhine are truly a remarkable experience especially for medieval romantic people.

Author profile :  Morgan Fielder is a Doctor of Physical Therapy and passionate hiker who believes in exploring the world on foot with good food. Follow her journey as she shares science-based hiking tips and advocates for sustainable tourism.

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9 Amazing Castles To Visit Along Germany’s Rhine River

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Imagine yourself in a land so incredible that it feels as if you were dropped right into the pages of a fairy-tale. A place where the landscape is so breathtakingly beautiful that it has inspired artists and poets for years. A land that was once the center of the medieval Holy Roman Empire, and one of the most important trading areas for Europe. 

Believe it or not, a place like this truly does exist, and you can witness it for yourself when you visit the beautiful Rhine River in Germany. 

The most captivating portion of the Rhine is known as the Romantic Rhine Valley and can be found in the Upper Middle portion of the river. Encompassing 40 miles of river from Rudesheim to Koblenz, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is dotted with castles, hillside vineyards, steep cliffs, fairy-tale towns , and half-timbered villages. 

During our first visit to the Rhine Valley, my husband and I were amazed at the vast concentration of castles in the area. While cruising this portion of the Rhine River, we felt dizzy from moving our head back and forth so often trying to catch a glimpse of all of the castles!

There are so many amazing castles to visit along Germany’s Rhine River that you can devote an entire trip just to exploring them. Exploring this area allows you to not only see the incredible castles on the Rhine, but also dive into the history, culture, and, of course, the incredible Riesling wine that the region is famous for.

These amazing castles are accessible by car, train, and some by river cruise. Touring the castles of the Rhine is one of the best things to do and see in Germany!

While many of the castles are privately owned, others have been repurposed into museums and hotels, allowing visitors to enjoy them still today. With that in mind, let’s dive into the castle along the Rhine River! 

1. Klopp Castle, Bingen Am Rhein

Klopp Castle sits atop the hillside overlooking the city of Bingen am Rhein and has a unique and interesting history.

Castles have stood on this site for centuries, being destroyed and rebuilt since Roman times. Like many of the castles of the Rhine, Klopp Castle was used by the Archbishop of Mainz to collect tolls on the river during its heyday. This is also the castle where the Holy Roman Emperor Henry IV was held prisoner by his son.

Much of the castle you see today dates back to 1853, as the prior castles were destroyed in various wars. Currently owned by the city of Bingen am Rhein, Klopp Castle is now the town’s city hall and museum. 

Visitors can enjoy climbing the castle tower and courtyard on their visit. The tower is open April–October from 8 a.m. until 6 p.m. 

2. Rheinstein Castle, Trechtingshausen

Located on a rocky cliffside in the beautiful Loreley Valley, Rheinstein Castle hovers 270 feet above the Rhine River. 

Rheinstein Castle is one of the castles along the Rhine that allows you to stay the night. The castle has two stylish apartments, one of which is in the castle’s tower! Guests of the castle hotel also get to enjoy breakfast on the terrace overlooking the beautiful river.

In addition to the hotel, Rheinstein is also a public museum. From the gorgeous stained glass windows to the incredible antique furniture, you immediately see the love and care that has been devoted to Rheinstein Castle. 

Visitors are welcome to explore the castle on their own, following the signs that are placed throughout. During your visit, don’t miss the authentic catapult and the canon on site!

Please note that the castle is only accessible by a footpath that is not wheelchair accessible. 

Pro Tip: Rheinstein Castle is from the end of December until the middle of March, so plan your trip around this so you don’t miss this gorgeous castle!

3. Reichenstein Castle, Trechtingshausen

Visitors to Germany’s Rhine River will find Reichenstein Castle located high above the Rhine on a rocky outcropping. Like many of the castles in the Rhine Valley, Reichenstein was left in decay until the era of Rhine Romanticism. 

The Rhine Romanticism period brought numerous artists, poets, and discerning people into the region. This brought about a rejuvenation period for many of the castles of the Rhine, including Reichenstein.

Tracing the origins of the castle, you discover that the castle dates back to the 1100s. The beautiful castle that you see today is a residential-style neo-Gothic castle that was first opened to the public in 1936. 

Reichenstein Castle offers 24 rooms for visitors to enjoy, or you can visit for the day to tour the castle and museum. The castle also hosts numerous events throughout the year including Easter at the Castle. 

Please note that Reichenstein Castle requires visitors to maneuver uneven surfaces and is not wheelchair accessible.

Pro Tip: Don’t miss afternoon tea at the onsite restaurant, Puricelli. Be sure you make prior reservations if you want to participate in the tea ceremony.

4. Sooneck Castle, Niederheimbach

When viewing Sooneck Castle from the Rhine River, it looks as if the rocks of the hillside naturally formed the beautiful castle. Located high on a ridge above the Rhine River, and encompassed in rose vines, Sooneck Castle is the definition of a fairy-tale castle!

Like most castles on Germany’s Rhine River, Sooneck Castle is open seasonally. Sooneck chooses to open from the end of March until the first of November. 

Sooneck Castle was originally built in the 11th century, but like other castles on the Rhine, it was destroyed numerous times. The castle’s great hall, turrets, and keep (which you can still visit today) date back to 1349. The rest of the castle was built in 1842, when it was restored by a Prussian royal family.

Touring Sooneck Castle does require walking, standing, and maneuvering some stairs.

Pro Tip: When visiting the Knight Hall, notice the picture of the Prussian soldier. Move around the room and watch how the soldier’s eyes follow you!

5. Stahleck Castle, Bacharach

Stahleck Castle is a 12th-century fortified castle located on the hillside overlooking the charming Rhine Valley city of Bacharach.

Boasting an interesting history of being destroyed and rebuilt, Stahleck Castle is thriving today as a popular youth hostel. The castle has 178 beds and proudly hosts families and youth groups in the Rhine Valley.

While the interior of the castle is for guests only, the castle courtyard is public and well worth a visit. Enjoy a coffee or ice cream on the terrace as you soak in the incredible views of the Romantic Rhine.

Due to the medieval terrain of the castle, the grounds are not wheelchair accessible and do require guests to be able to walk on uneven ground.

6. Gutenfels Castle, Kaub

Built in 1222, Gutenfels Castle sits overlooking the town of Kaub and is therefore often referred to as Kaub Castle. 

The historic castle and castle walls have been carefully preserved so that hotel guests can still enjoy them today. A stay at Gutenfels Castle gives guests access to the castle’s common rooms including their beautifully furnished library. 

Gutenfels also offers a variety of public events throughout the year. Be sure to check their website for the most up-to-date information. 

Pro Tip: This hotel fills up quickly and is only open to the public by appointment or during special events, so book your stay in advance if you want to enjoy Gutenfels Castle. 

7. Schönburg Castle, Oberwesel

Standing high atop the hillside, Schönburg Castle is another one of the amazing castles to visit along Germany’s Rhine River.

Schönburg Castle successfully defended itself until 1689, when it was overpowered by the troops of Louis XIV. After sitting in disrepair until 1885, it was restored to the splendid castle that you can visit today.

Like several other castles on the Rhine, Schonburg is a castle hotel that welcomes guests seasonally throughout the year. 

If you choose not to stay at the castle, you can still visit the castle’s Tower Museum. This museum teaches you all about the history of the castle and gives you an opportunity to take in the breathtaking view of the Rhine Valley below.

In addition to the Tower Museum, visitors to Schonburg Castle can also enjoy lunch at the Cafe Bistro. 

As this is a medieval castle, there is uneven terrain and stairs to ascend and descend during your visit.

8. Marksburg Castle, Braubach

Marksburg Castle is a rare castle on the Rhine River, as it is the only medieval castle on the Middle Rhine that was never destroyed. 

Located in the UNESCO World Heritage region of the Romantic Rhine, the 13th–15th century Marksburg Castle stands tall on the hillside above the town of Braubach. When viewing the castle from the river, the towering white fortress instantly commands your attention.

A tour of the castle takes visitors first through a series of gates before entering the incredible castle grounds. Once inside, you are introduced to what life was like during medieval times. The tour showcases the wine cellar, battery, herb garden, castle kitchen, chapel, and more. 

Since Marksburg Castle is in its original medieval state, there are no elevators on the property. Visiting the castle does require an uphill climb and the ability to navigate stairs and uneven terrain. The castle is not accessible by wheelchair.

A visit to Marksburg Castle should definitely be on your list of castles to visit on the Rhine River.

9. Lahneck Castle, Lahnstein

Lahneck Castle is strategically located where the River Lahn joins the Rhine River. Built in 1244, Lahneck Castle held an important position as it served to help secure the silver mines in the area.

The castle is an eclectic mix of medieval, neo-Gothic, and 19th-century architecture as it has been remodeled and added on throughout its history. 

Visitors can enjoy a 40-minute guided tour of the castle, which is open from July 1 through November 1. A tour of Lahneck Castle teaches visitors the history of the castle as it walks you through several rooms of the castle, including the chapel and great hall.

Related Reading:

• 7 French Castles You Can Stay In
• 7 Magnificent Castles To Visit In Hungary
• 9 Beautiful Castles You Can Actually Visit In The Midwest
• Danube River Cruise Vs. Rhine River Cruise: 7 Key Differences

This love of travel has allowed her to visit numerous countries and to fall in love with Italy. Michelle enjoys bringing places to life through her informative writing style on her blogs, That Texas Couple and Totally Texas Travel. Her practical tips and suggestions help make travel dreams a reality while immersing her readers in the history, culture, and food of a region. She is happiest sipping wine in Italy or chilling on a beach with her husband, Marty.

The Best Rhine River Castles and Towns to Visit

The Rhine river region is the most romantic region in Germany as well as one of the busiest rivers in the country. The main attraction are definitely the castles along the Rhine river. There are over 40 castles along the Rhine, which are now turned into luxurious hotels, restaurants, and museums.

Travelers love to cruise the river just to castle watch. This part of Germany is also known for its wonderful wine, which has been popular since ancient Roman times. This is the place to try a perfect glass of white wine made from the best white wine grape – Riesling.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. This means that should you click on certain links and then subsequently purchase a product, I will receive a small commission. It costs nothing extra to you but helps keep my site running. Thank you for supporting me in this way.

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Table of Contents

The Best 13 Castles in the Rhine River

1. marksburg castle.

The only Rhine river castle that has never been destroyed or damaged. This castle is a typical medieval masterpiece with interesting interior rooms such as a wine cellar, gothic hall, chapel, horse stable, and bedchambers. It is located just above the small town of Braubach.

2. Rheinfels Castle

The largest and the most interesting castle ruin to visit. Tourists are amazed by the labyrinth of trenches and tunnels which can be visited. Entering the museum in the castle, which is located in the former chapel, is a must. You can have a great meal in the restaurant near the castle, as well. 

3. Rheinstein Castle

It is located about 300m above the Rhine river, with the most beautiful landscape behind it. When entering the castle, don’t miss out on the most beautiful part of the building, which is the Knight’s Hall. This is a room with a huge stained glass window and three-dimensional paintings. The castle also has a café and a gift shop where you can buy handmade wooden souvenirs.

4. Katz Castle

Or as people like to call it, Cat castle stands on the ledge looking downstream at the river. The architectural style of the castle is majestic; you can see it while cruising the Rhine river.

5. Stolzenfels Palace

The castle which has turned into a marvelous palace, fascinates tourists from all over the world. It is located on the left bank of the Rhine. Despite the luxurious furniture in the palace, what is even more luxurious is the view of the Rhine Valley from the terrace of the palace.

6. Pfalzgrafenstein Castle

In the middle of the river, you can see a small island on which the Pfalzgrafenstein castle is built. This is a small castle and served as a toll house in the past. This is definitely of the “must see” sites in the Rhine region.

7. Klopp Castle

This is a castle on the top of the hill above the town called Bingium. This whole hill was a part of the defensive belt, which was surrounded by a wall. Today, this castle houses the city council.

8. Stahleck Castle

This castle is turned into one of the most popular youth hostels in this region. It is ideal for family and school trips where you can play table tennis, pinball, and piano in your leisure time. A perfect place for you and your friends.

9. Maus (Mouse) Castle

Since there is a Katz (Cat) castle, it would only be logical if there is a mouse castle. These castles were spying on each other, and therefore, it was said that the castle was the mouse that would be eaten by the Katz (Cat). Unlike the other castle, the Maus castle was never destroyed.

10. Lahneck Castle

This is a classic example of the castles from the Rhine Romanticism. This castle is privately owned, but you can visit it by taking a tour. What is worth seeing is the beautiful furniture in the castle.

11. Schönburg Castle

This castle is turned into a luxurious hotel. Schönburg Castle hotel has a wonderful garden through which you can take a walk as well as a restaurant where you can have delicious meals or a glass of wine on the terrace.

11. Sooneck Castle

You will definitely pass by this breathtaking castle while on a cruise. The most interesting part of the castle is definitely the Knight Hall, where you can see a picture of a Prussian soldier on the wall. What is interesting about this picture is that wherever you stand in the room, the eyes of the soldier will follow you.

12. Liebenstein Castle

This is the highest castle in the Middle Rhine Valley in Germany. This beautiful castle is turned into a luxurious hotel and restaurant where you can enjoy your stay and eat delicious food high above the Rhine river.

13. Sterrenberg Castle

This castle is separated from the Liebenstein castle by a stone wall. These two castles are known as the “Hostile Brothers” and are the only castles in the Rhine region which are this close to one another. This castle is, like the one next to it, a beautiful hotel.

Best Towns to visit on the River Rhine

1. bacharach.

The prettiest town in the Rhine valley. This is a small town, but before the 15 fires and the plague in which half of the population died, it was a pretty big city. In medieval, this town was the capital of Germany. In its heydays, Bacharach was forfeited by a great wall which you can still hike on above the town.

At one time, there were 16 towers along the wall, and 6 of them survived. The wall extended all the way through the castle. Today, this town is associated with wonderful wine. Bacharach has a long tradition of vintners making wine and offering their labels to tourists.

This town has an interesting way of pronunciation, which is “bo-part”. People who are fans of quiet and restful places will definitely love this town, which lies on the upper Middle Rhine. Like other towns along the river, Boppard is also very popular for its beautiful white wine, and it is actually one of the biggest wine centers in the Middle Rhine.

Check out: A Guide to Boppard, Germany .

The mighty Rhine is joined by the Mosel river at Koblenz – Germany’s oldest city. The city’s name comes from the Latin word for confluence, a reminder of the region’s roman past. This point where the two rivers meet the Deutsches Eck or German Corner is the tourists’ jumping-off point for exploring the dreamy Mosel.

This is a city from which you can see the most remarkable landscapes of vineyards, four mountain ranges, and forests. Koblenz is the most diverse city in Germany because it has everything, from churches and castles to cable cars.

Best ways to explore Koblenz

• Soak up the atmosphere of the Old Town on a personalized tour
• Discover one of the Rhine’s grandest fortresses on this private tour of the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress
• Unusual way to get to know Koblonz – interactive city game
• Step into the wonderful world of the Holidays on the Christmas market tour with a professional guide

How to explore the Middle Rhine Area

Explore the Rhine Castles by Car

If you are traveling by your own car or have rented one, there is a perfect and easy way to explore the German castles on the Rhine by just following this simple route. You will have a route that is 65km (40 miles) long from Koblenz to Bingen. This route is placed right next to the river so that you can have an amazing view of the landscapes and the castles along the Rhine. This scenic drive has two parts, the upper part from Bingen to Koblenz and the lower part from Koblenz to Bonn.

Explore the Rhine Castles b y Train

When it comes to train rides, there is a scenic Rhine Valley railway route where you can enjoy watching Middle Rhine castles from the comfort of your seat. If you are traveling from Koblenz to Bingen, the Rhine river will be on the left side of the train, and if you are traveling from Bingen to Koblenz, the river will be on the right of the train; this way, you will know on which side of the train to sit so that you can enjoy the beautiful view. You can book your train tickets here: http://www.vrminfo.de/en/tickets/tickets/ticket-offers/rheinland-pfalz-ticket/

Day cruise along the Rhine with Köln-Düsseldorfer Rheinschiffahrt

Cruising the Rhine is always a good idea! There are regularly scheduled daily trips between May and October; you can choose your date and time of departure. You can have breakfast and lunch buffet on the ship. The ticket price is around 50 euros per person and around 30 euros for children.

Explore the Rhine Castles on a Multi day River Cruise

If you are up for it, you can book a multi-day cruise that includes the Rhine valley castles. This is a perfect way of exploring this part of Germany and visiting many German cities. Your meals and drinks are included in the price, you don’t need to think or to worry about anything, your only job is to enjoy the ride. Many companies like Viking offer this kind of cruise.

Rather you are planning a voyage or a trip, traveling by car or by train, you will make no mistake by choosing to spend your vacation exploring middle Rhine castles in the most magical part of Germany. After all, we all daydream of sipping a glass of beautiful white wine on a big terrace, looking upon beautiful mountains and castles; why wouldn’t you make your daydream happen?

You might also like: Best Medieval Towns in Germany One day in Dusseldorf Things to do in Frankfurt in winter Best Places to visit in Germany in winter Best Places to visit in Germany in summer Things to do in Heidelberg in winter Best spas in Baden Baden How to spend 3 days in Munich

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I am really happy to say it’s an interesting post to read . I learn new information from your article , you are doing a great job . Keep it up

Born in Dusseldorf I was lucky to enjoy the River Cruises as a young Girl with my Family and later with my Husband.

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The 10 best places to go on a river cruise in Europe 

Jun 7, 2024 • 8 min read

Appreciate the beautiful architecture of Budapest from the Danube © Sanga Park / Shutterstock

Cruising down a quiet, traffic-free river, surrounded by scenic riverfront views is an ideal way to see Europe . You can sip your wine while watching picture-perfect scenery breeze past – taking in castles, medieval villages and fields of flowers. 

By necessity, European riverboats are small and passenger numbers are often fewer than 200, making these cruises a far more social and intimate experience. There’s also plenty to do and see onshore, and with more frequent stops you can enjoy more onshore activities. Cruise lines are now also offering more immersive learning experiences such as cooking classes and home visits, or activities like bicycle trips and long hikes.

The hardest part is choosing where to go — which is why we've rounded up the 10 best places to go on a European river cruise. 

1. Northern Rhine (Germany)

From gorgeous river meanders and noble German cities

The northern section of the Rhine features dramatic landscapes and a host of interesting towns. Cologne (Köln), Germany ’s fourth-largest city, offers numerous attractions starting with its famous cathedral, while Koblenz, at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers, is a park- and flower-filled delight. Heading south, the Rhine meanders between hillside castles and steep fields of wine-producing grapes. Idyllic villages appear around each bend, their half-timbered houses and Gothic steeples seemingly plucked from a fairy tale. Scarcely damaged during WWII, handsome Speyer is crowned by a magnificent Romanesque cathedral. 

2. Southern Rhine (France, Germany & Switzerland)

Explore intriguing towns in this border land

The Southern Rhine forms the border between Germany and France before becoming Switzerland ’s northern frontier. Strasbourg is the perfect overture to all that is idiosyncratic about Alsace – walking a fine tightrope between France and Germany, between a medieval past and a progressive future. Further south, the Black Forest spills into Alsace in the German town of Breisach. Unsurprisingly, given its geographical and cultural proximity to France, the locals here have a passion for a good bottle of wine. Basel, at the juncture of the French, German and Swiss borders, is perhaps where Switzerland’s Franco-Germanic roots are most evident.

3. Rhône (France)

Indulge in gourmet experiences cruising the south of France

Commanding a strategic spot at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône Rivers, grand old Lyon is France’s gastronomic capital. Downstream, the Rhône forges past Vienne’s Roman ruins and the centuries-old Côtes du Rhône vineyards, opening to sunny vistas of fruit orchards, lavender fields and the distant Alps as it continues south. During the 14th century, the Provençal town of Avignon was the center of the Roman Catholic world. Its impressive legacy of ecclesiastical architecture most notably includes the soaring, World Heritage-listed Palais des Papes .

4. Western Danube (Austria & Germany)

Romantic landscapes in the heart of Europe

The baroque streetscapes and imperial palaces set the stage for Vienna ’s artistic and musical masterpieces alongside its coffee-house culture and vibrant epicurean and design scenes. Moving into Germany, the Danube gently winds its way to the Italianate city of Passau . Top billing in eastern Bavaria goes to Regensburg, a former capital and one of Germany’s prettiest and liveliest cities. Nuremberg (Nürnberg), Bavaria’s second-largest city and the unofficial capital of Franconia, is an energetic place with a history that ranges from undeclared capital of the Holy Roman Empire to the trials that judged Nazi war crimes.

5. Eastern Danube (Hungary & Serbia)

Travel a cross-section of Europe’s less-touristed east

The two great cities of this stretch of the Danube are the capitals of Hungary and Serbia respectively. Budapest has something for everyone – from dramatic history and flamboyant architecture to healing thermal waters. Outspoken, adventurous, proud and audacious: Belgrade ("White City") has a gritty exuberance and eclectic architecture making it one of Europe’s most happening cities today. While it hurtles towards a brighter future, its past unfolds before your eyes: socialist blocks are squeezed between art nouveau masterpieces and remnants of the Habsburg legacy contrast with Ottoman relics.

6. Douro (Portugal)

See spectacular terraced vineyards, the home of port wine

The Douro region, home to port wine, is simply one of the most glorious spots on earth. The Douro Valley showcases steep terraced vineyards carved into mountains, granite bluffs, whitewashed quintas (estates) and 18th-century wine cellars that draw visitors from around the world. Humble-yet-opulent Porto entices with its higgledy-piggledy medieval center, divine food and wine, and charismatic locals. Its charms are as subtle as the nuances of an aged tawny port, best savored slowly.

7. Elbe (Czech Republic & Germany)

A little-cruised but picturesque stretch of Central Europe

Covering the Czech Republic and a thick slice of eastern Germany, Elbe cruises are under-the-radar options. Prague , not on the Elbe but usually included on river cruises, contends with cities like Budapest and Paris in terms of beauty. Its maze of cobbled lanes and hidden courtyards is perfect for the aimless wanderer. The classic view of Dresden from the Elbe’s northern bank takes in spires, towers and domes belonging to palaces, churches and stately buildings: hard to believe that the city was all but wiped off the map by Allied bombings in 1945. While the city of Wittenberg is first and foremost about Martin Luther, the monk who triggered the German Reformation in 1517.

8. Seine (France)

Cruise out of Paris through northern France

Paris has a timeless familiarity, with instantly recognizable architectural icons, memorable cuisine and chic boutiques. Dining is a quintessential part of the Parisian experience, and its art repository is one of the best, showcasing priceless treasures in palatial museums. Don't miss Rouen is one of Normandy’s most engaging and historically rich destinations, with its soaring Gothic cathedral, beautifully restored medieval quarter, excellent museums and vibrant cultural life. At the mouth of the Seine, Le Havre is a love letter to modernism, evoking France’s postwar energy and optimism.

9. Main (Germany)

A seductive German river connecting to the Rhine and Danube

Rising in Franconia and joining the Rhine near Mainz, the Main (pronounced "mine") is the longest German-only river. From Bamberg to its confluence, it travels some 400km through locks and picturesque scenery, dotted with historic towns. Frankfurt ’s skyscrapers are quite a contrast to the picturesque towns that follow, though it too has a rather traditional and charming old town. Scenic Würzburg is renowned for its art, architecture and delicate wines. A disarmingly beautiful architectural masterpiece, Bamberg’s entire Altstadt is a UNESCO World Heritage site. 

10. Moselle (Germany)

An intimate stretch of the wine-producing German region

Having traversed France and Luxembourg , the Moselle heads through Germany to meet its destiny with the Rhine at Koblenz. It’s a very pretty stretch of river flanked by vineyards, and makes for great leisurely cruising and exploration. With an astounding nine UNESCO World Heritage sites, gorgeous Trier shelters Germany’s finest ensemble of Roman monuments, and is enlivened by a characterful medieval center and large student population. Bernkastel-Kues are lovely twin settlements in the heart of wine country, while Cochem’s castle and pretty buildings make it a visual highlight of the Moselle .

How do I choose a route for a European river cruise?

The two major rivers for European cruises are the Rhine and the Danube. Together, they were once the northern boundary of the Roman Empire. Rhine cruises often run from Amsterdam to Basel, following the course of the river through Germany. Danube cruises start in southern Germany, wend their way through Bratislava, Slovakia; Linz and Vienna, Austria; and Belgrade, Serbia; then skirt the Bulgarian and Romanian border to reach the Black Sea.

While many first-time European river cruisers stick to these two rivers, there are many other options available. In Western Europe, you can cruise through the French countryside on the Rhône and Seine, or check out the vineyards of Portugal on the Douro. 

Even on the same river, distinct routes can be offered. One company might zip up the Rhine, allowing you to see the highlights in a few days; another might take longer, exploring smaller places along the way and offering more time for onshore experiences. You'll need to decide whether you’d like to get a look at more destinations, or more of a feel for fewer places.

When is the best time to go on a European river cruise?

Cruises on European rivers tend to begin in the spring, around March, and go through to October. Some cruises, operating in areas where Christmas markets are a feature, run right through December but inclement weather or river flooding could put a dampener on plans. Winter cruises tend to focus on places where Christmas experiences are on offer. Shorter daylight hours mean you’ll see less scenery, but the charm of the festive season has its own appeal. 

Choosing your season is very much a matter of personal preference, and there are pros and cons for each season. Summer cruises offer the most spectacular scenery, the longest daylight hours and the best weather, but the towns you visit will be far busier and you won’t be alone in port; in some smaller places, you may have to scramble across the decks of other boats to reach the shore.

Spring and autumn mean less time around the pool on the top deck, but quieter times ashore. Expect rains in spring, but also blooming flowers. Autumn is a great time to cruise the Douro, with grapes being picked and clement temperatures.

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10 River Cruises Tailored for Older Women

Cruising along rivers offers a delightful blend of relaxation, luxury, and exploration. For older women seeking a sophisticated and enriching travel experience, river cruises provide the perfect opportunity to see breathtaking landscapes and unique cultures. 

With an array of options available, tailored specifically for mature travelers, here are river cruises that cater to the interests and preferences of older women.

• Danube River Cruise – Discover the timeless charm of Europe’s most enchanting cities while cruising the Danube River. 
• Rhine River Cruise – Explore the beauty of Germany, France, and Switzerland from the Rhine River. This cruise takes you past charming villages, lush vineyards, and medieval castles that dot the riverbanks. 
• Douro River cruise  – With its serene beauty and laid-back atmosphere, the Douro River offers a quiet escape for older women seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.
• Mekong River Cruise – With its calm waterways and cultural richness, the Mekong River offers a truly immersive travel experience for older women.
• Mississippi River Cruise – With its Southern charm and laid-back atmosphere, a Mississippi River cruise offers a quintessentially American travel experience.
• Amazon River Cruise – Cruise along the mighty Amazon River, explore remote tributaries, and encounter an incredible array of wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, and exotic birds. 
• Nile River Cruise – With its timeless beauty and fascinating culture, a Nile River cruise offers a captivating journey through the cradle of civilization
• Yangtze River cruise – Get a captivating glimpse into the diversity and splendor of China.
• Ganges River Cruise –  A Ganges River cruise offers a transformative travel experience for women seeking enlightenment and inspiration.
• Columbia & Snake Rivers Cruise – This river cruise offers a serene escape for women seeking tranquility and natural beauty.

How to Select a River Cruise as an Older Woman

Selecting a river cruise as an older woman requires careful consideration of several factors to ensure a comfortable, enjoyable, and enriching travel experience.

Destination and Itinerary

Consider the destinations and itinerary options offered by various river cruise lines. Think about your interests and preferences – whether you prefer exploring historic cities, scenic landscapes, cultural sites, or wildlife-rich regions. Research the ports of call, shore excursions, and onboard activities to find an itinerary that aligns with your interests.

Cruise Line and Ship

Research different river cruise lines and their reputations for quality, service, and amenities. Consider factors such as the size of the ship, onboard facilities (e.g., dining options, entertainment, wellness amenities), and the level of inclusivity (e.g., all-inclusive vs. à la carte pricing). Look for cruise lines that cater to mature travelers and offer amenities and activities tailored to your preferences.

Accommodations

Pay attention to the types of accommodations offered onboard, including cabin sizes, configurations, and amenities. Consider your preferences for comfort, privacy, and accessibility. Some river cruise ships offer special amenities for older travelers, such as accessible cabins, elevators, and mobility aids.

Season and Weather

Take into account the season and weather conditions of your chosen destination. Consider factors such as temperature, humidity, rainfall, and seasonal attractions or events. Depending on your preferences, you may prefer cruising during the shoulder seasons to avoid crowds and extreme weather conditions.

Solo Travel vs. Group Travel

Decide whether you prefer traveling solo or as part of a group. Some river cruise lines offer special programs and accommodations for solo travelers, while others cater to group travel with organized tours and activities. Consider your comfort level and social preferences when choosing the type of travel experience that best suits you.

Health and Mobility Considerations

Take into account any health or mobility considerations that may impact your travel experience. Consider factors such as accessibility of ports and excursions, onboard amenities for wellness and relaxation, and medical facilities and services available onboard. Be sure to communicate any special needs or requirements to the cruise line in advance.

Reviews and Recommendations

Read reviews and testimonials from other travelers, particularly older adults, who have experienced river cruises. Seek recommendations from friends, family, or travel advisors who can provide insights and advice based on their own experiences. Look for reviews that address factors such as service, accommodations, dining, and overall satisfaction.

By considering these factors and doing thorough research, you can select a river cruise that meets your preferences, interests, and travel expectations as an older woman.

River Cruises Around the World Suited for Mature Women

Whether you’re seeking cultural enrichment, scenic beauty, or relaxation, a river cruise offers a wonderful opportunity to explore new destinations and create unforgettable memories.

Danube River Cruise – Unveiling European Elegance

Go on a Danube River cruise to discover the timeless charm of Europe’s most enchanting cities. From the majestic beauty of Budapest to the classical elegance of Vienna and the medieval splendor of Prague, this river offers a captivating journey through history and culture. 

Choose one of Viking Cruises’ various Danube cruises for a memorable experience. Visit historic landmarks, indulge in local cuisine and wine tastings, and relax onboard your luxurious river cruise ship as you sail through gorgeous landscapes.

Rhine River Cruise – Exploring Castles and Vineyards

Sail along the Rhine River and explore the beauty of Germany, France, and Switzerland. This cruise takes you past charming villages, lush vineyards, and medieval castles that dot the riverbanks. 

Enjoy leisurely walks through cobblestone streets, visit renowned wineries for tastings, and marvel at iconic landmarks such as the Cologne Cathedral and the Rhine Gorge. With onboard amenities and enriching excursions, this cruise offers a perfect blend of relaxation and exploration. Explore Avalon Waterways to find the perfect Rhine River cruise for you.

Douro River Cruise – Savoring Portuguese Delights

Go on a Douro River cruise with Riviera River Cruises and discover the hidden gems of Portugal’s breathtaking Douro Valley. Cruise past terraced vineyards, olive groves, and charming quintas as you discover the region’s rich history and culture. 

Explore historic cities such as Porto and Lisbon, taste world-class port wines, and savor authentic Portuguese cuisine. With its serene beauty and laid-back atmosphere, the Douro River offers a tranquil escape for older women seeking relaxation and rejuvenation.

Mekong River Cruise – Embracing Asian Tranquility

Experience the charm of Southeast Asia on a Mekong River cruise through Vietnam and Cambodia. Cruise past floating markets, ancient temples, and leafy landscapes as you discover the region’s fascinating history and traditions. 

Explore bustling cities like Ho Chi Minh City and Phnom Penh, visit rural villages to learn about local customs, and witness the breathtaking beauty of Angkor Wat. With its calm waterways and cultural richness, the Mekong River offers a truly immersive travel experience for older women.

Mississippi River Cruise – Nostalgic Journey through American History

Go on a nostalgic journey along the Mississippi River with American Cruise Lines and explore the heartland of America. Cruise past historic towns and captivating landscapes as you discover the region’s rich cultural heritage. 

Explore iconic cities such as New Orleans and Memphis, visit historic sites like Vicksburg National Military Park, and enjoy live music and entertainment onboard your river cruise ship. With its Southern charm and laid-back atmosphere, a Mississippi River cruise offers a quintessentially American travel experience for older women.

Amazon River Cruise – Discovering Wildlife and Wilderness

Go on an Amazon River cruise with Aqua Expeditions and venture out on a thrilling adventure through the world’s largest tropical rainforest. Cruise along the mighty Amazon River, explore remote tributaries and encounter an incredible array of wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, and exotic birds. Discover indigenous villages to learn about traditional lifestyles, go on guided jungle hikes, and enjoy wildlife-watching excursions. 

With its pristine wilderness and unparalleled biodiversity, an Amazon River cruise offers a truly unforgettable travel experience for older women with a spirit of adventure.

Nile River Cruise – Unraveling Ancient Mysteries

Journey back in time on a Nile River cruise and explore the wonders of ancient Egypt. Cruise along the legendary Nile River, visit iconic landmarks such as the Pyramids of Giza and the temples of Luxor and Karnak and unravel the mysteries of Egypt’s pharaonic past. 

Walk through bustling bazaars, marvel at exquisite artifacts in world-class museums, and enjoy onboard lectures and cultural performances that bring Egypt’s history to life. With its timeless beauty and fascinating culture, a Nile River cruise offers a captivating journey through the cradle of civilization for older women with a passion for history and culture.

Yangtze River Cruise – Experiencing Chinese Splendor

Journey on a Yangtze River cruise and discover China’s natural and cultural wonders. Cruise past stunning landscapes, including the dramatic Three Gorges, and visit historic cities such as Shanghai and Beijing. 

Visit ancient temples, stroll through traditional gardens, and witness the awe-inspiring beauty of the Great Wall. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking scenery, a Yangtze River cruise offers a captivating glimpse into the diversity and splendor of China for older women seeking an unforgettable travel experience.

Ganges River Cruise – Immersing in Spiritual Traditions

Take a Ganges River cruise and go on a spiritual journey through the heart of India. Cruise along the sacred river, visit ancient temples and holy sites and immerse yourself in the rich traditions and cultural heritage of India. 

Discover cities such as Kolkata and Varanasi, witness colorful ceremonies and rituals, and gain insight into the spiritual practices of Hinduism. With its spiritual significance and cultural richness, a Ganges River cruise offers a transformative travel experience for older women seeking enlightenment and inspiration.

Columbia & Snake Rivers Cruise – Exploring American Wilderness

Go on a Columbia & Snake Rivers cruise with National Geographic Expeditions and discover the breathtaking beauty of the Pacific Northwest. Cruise past stunning landscapes, including towering mountains, lush forests, and stunning waterfalls, as you explore the natural wonders of Oregon and Washington. 

Visit charming towns, taste local wines, and go on outdoor adventures such as hiking and wildlife watching. With its pristine wilderness and scenic beauty, a Columbia & Snake Rivers cruise offers a serene escape for women seeking tranquility and natural beauty.

From the romantic waterways of Europe to the exotic landscapes of Southeast Asia, river cruises offer a unique and immersive travel experience. With carefully curated itineraries, luxurious accommodations, and enriching excursions, these cruises provide the perfect opportunity to relax, explore, and create unforgettable memories. 

Let’s Have a Conversation:

Have you ever been on a river cruise? Is a river cruise on your bucket list? Which river would you like to book a cruise on? Tell us about it in the comments below.

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We did a Rhine River cruises and saw magnificent castles. A real life highlight.

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Sixty and Me is a community of over 500,000 women over 60 founded by Margaret Manning. Our editorial team publishes articles on lifestyle topics including fashion, dating, retirement and money.

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Danube River Cruises

Coursing through Germany, Austria, Hungary and seven other countries all the way to the Black Sea, the Danube is the soul of Central Europe. Join us along these culture-rich banks, whose scenic vineyards, ancient monasteries and elegant cities have inspired travelers for centuries.

Grand European Tour

• PRICE & BUILD

Romantic Danube

Danube Waltz

Passage to Eastern Europe

Capitals of Eastern Europe

European Sojourn

NEW! Treasures of the Danube

Christmas on the Danube

Danube Christmas Delights

Highlights of danube river cruises.

A Danube River cruise unveils Europe’s rich and dramatic history. Glittering cultural capitals, lush vineyards, magnificent monasteries and endless scenic splendor line the river’s banks. Here are some sample highlights you will see with Viking:

• Enchanting Passau, set where three rivers meet
• Lush vineyards of the Wachau Valley
• The baroque splendor of Melk Abbey
• Vienna’s elegant architecture
• The splendid Benedictine Abbey of Göttweig
• Scenic beauty of the picturesque Danube Bend
• Budapest’s stunning Chain Bridge and Parliament Building
• Soaring cliffs of the scenic Iron Gate
• Romania’s rural culture and rich folklore
• Belgrade’s impressive Kalemegdan Fortress

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LYTKARINSKY QUARRY: All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (with Photos)

Palace of Culture "Mir"

Palace of Culture "Mir" (Lytkarino, Russia): Address, Phone Number - Tripadvisor