A Week on the Resplendent Rhine With Tulips of Holland

There's a point where Switzerland, Germany, and France meet—that point is the Swiss city of Basel. By the Middle Ages, Basel was a center of culture and commerce, and by the 15th century, it was an epicenter for the printing industry. In fact, it was here that the world's first printed book was published. Today, Basel is known for its pharmaceutical industry, exciting art scene, impressive 13th-century Gothic cathedral, and its annual Carnival celebrations that attract visitors from around the world each February.

If your travel Bucket List doesn't include Strasbourg, it should! From the stunning gardens of Parc de l'Orangerie to the European Quarter, there's something to see in every direction. This is where the EU Parliament, Council of Europe, and other international institutions are based, and where the Grande Île, the Old Town island framed by two river arms, leaves an unforgettable impression. The pink sandstone cathedral with its famous astronomical clock and canal-lined Petite France district are the very definition of Old World European magic.

Situated where the Rhine and Neckar Rivers meet is Mannheim, nicknamed the Square City for its grid layout (unusual in Germany) and the City of Inventions—birthplace of the automobile, bicycle, tractor, and more. Mannheim Palace, whose facade stretches the length of more than four football fields (437 yards/400 meters) is truly impressive, and is the second-largest Baroque palace after Versailles. Other highlights include the landmark water tower, Old Town Hall, St. Sebastian Parish, Mannheim Port, and more!

Deep in the heart of the Rhine Gorge is the romantic wine village of Rüdesheim, one of the river's most popular ports. Home to some of Germany's finest vineyards, Rüdesheim is particularly famous for its Riesling, as well as its signature coffee made with German brandy, whipped cream, and chocolate shavings. Highlight attractions include the cable car up to the Niederwald Monument, which commemorates the unification of Germany in 1871, and the atmospheric Drosselgasse, lined with gorgeous Old World architecture, boutiques, and countless cozy wine taverns.

Although Bonn has a fascinating legacy dating back to Roman times, its most noteworthy era was as capital of West Germany and then unified Germany from 1949 until 1999. During that time, the city transformed into a modern, cosmopolitan hub of government, and cultural districts. It did manage to preserve much of its historic character, though, with winding cobblestone streets and centuries-old churches and cathedrals. Important landmarks include the birthplace of composer Ludwig van Beethoven and Poppelsdorf Palace, now part of the University of Bonn.

The electric atmosphere of 2,000-year-old Cologne is undeniable. Its strategic location on the Rhine quickly elevated the city as a vital trade center that grew into a hub of industry by the 19th century. Even plagues and wars couldn't damper Cologne's tenacious spirit. During WWII, nearly 90% of the city center was destroyed, but a massive rebuilding effort restored much of its cultural heritage, including its famous Gothic cathedral. Highlights include the four preserved gates in the city wall, and Kölsch—the beer that’s been brewed here since the 17th century!

From arches to unusual cube houses, few cities make an architectural statement like Rotterdam! Instead of rebuilding after the bombings of WWII, Rotterdam reinvented iteself with bold, modern architecture. Today, Europe's largest seaport sports an impressive skyline nicknamed the "Manhattan on the Maas". Skyscrapers tower over the harbor; the Erasmus Bridge ("The Swan") captivates with its asymmetrical design; and the soaring Euromast provides endless views over the city and its surroundings.

Capital of the Netherlands, the magical Venice of the North is famous for its dazzling Golden Age of power and wealth during the 16th and 17th centuries. Today, it is a bustling wonderland of things to see and do. No visit is complete without a cruise along the intricate network of more than 62 miles (100 km) of canals and time with the Dutch masters at the renowned Rijksmuseum. Other highlights include the Royal Palace, Anne Frank House, lavish 17th-century canal homes, Heineken Beer Experience, and the infamous red-light district!