Highlights of Germany

The customs and traditions of Germany come alive on our tours of this ancient country. Each town is full of unique treasures of European culture. Whether you're cruising the Rhine or the Danube River, you're sure to be delighted by the charming communities of:

• Regensburg -  the best preserved medieval city in Germany, located at the northernmost point of the Danube River.
• Cologne – home of one of the most iconic twin-spired Gothic churches of Germany on the Rhine.
• Berlin - a modern metropolis, is the main departure point for cruises on the Elbe river.
• Mainz & Worms – home to old fashioned Romanesque cathedrals, museums, and a tranquil atmosphere for an evening stroll
• Koblenz – great for hiking, biking, or visiting the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress.
• Nuremburg – characteristic of the whole Bavaria region, especially the medieval Old Town, Kaiserburg Castle, and the Hauptmarkt central square.
• Bamberg - a gem of Germany's medieval past on the Main River.
• Rüdesheim - bike and gondolier your way through this traditional wine-making city
• Cochem - on the Moselle River, is one of Germany's most quaint towns and the 1,000-year-old Cochem Castle is the city’s signature landmark.
• Passau - a major port on the Danube River and the Austrian border.
• Mannheim – home to castles, a Baroque palace and a modern city on the Rhine.

Best Times of Year to Take a River Cruise in Germany

The most pleasant temperatures for river cruising in Germany are in the spring months of April and May, as well as the fall months of September and October. River levels are another concern, and while a river cruise itinerary may change due to river levels and weather at any time of the year, the fall tends to have more stable river levels. Our vote for the best months to cruise Germany are September and October.

Being the prime months, cruises in September in October need to be reserved many months in advance, as the riverboats fill up fast.

Christmas is a special time to cruise Germany as specialized Christmas market cruises take travelers down the Rhine and Danube. Most cruise lines do not run river cruises during the months of January and February. 

River Levels and Itinerary Changes

River levels are quite unpredictable at any time of the year and excessively high river levels prevent our riverboats from passing under bridges, while low water levels can make sections of rivers impassable in times of relative drought. Here's an updated summary of European river levels. Heavy rains upstream can make river levels change quickly, sometimes forcing itinerary changes. The captain of your riverboat will make the best decision given the current conditions to guarantee passenger safety and an optimal trip experience given the conditions. It is a good idea to be in touch with your Adventure Life agent in the days before your trip and keep an eye on the weather to minimize surprises.