Scenes & Snaps on the Rhine and Moselle

Amsterdam is the capital city of the Netherlands and is known for its stunning canals, rich cultural heritage, and lively arts scene. Visitors can explore the city's many historic landmarks, such as the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Anne Frank House. The city is also home to numerous galleries and theaters, making it a hub for art and culture. And for those who enjoy outdoor activities, the surrounding countryside offers numerous biking and walking trails, as well as opportunities for water sports on the many lakes and canals. And let's not forget the famous nightlife and coffee shops that make Amsterdam a unique destination for many visitors.

Amsterdam is the capital city of the Netherlands and is known for its stunning canals, rich cultural heritage, and lively arts scene. Visitors can explore the city's many historic landmarks, such as the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Anne Frank House. The city is also home to numerous galleries and theaters, making it a hub for art and culture. And for those who enjoy outdoor activities, the surrounding countryside offers numerous biking and walking trails, as well as opportunities for water sports on the many lakes and canals. And let's not forget the famous nightlife and coffee shops that make Amsterdam a unique destination for many visitors.

Köln, also known as Cologne in English, is the fourth largest city in Germany with a population of over one million people. The history of Köln dates back over 2,000 years to the Roman Empire when it was known as Colonia Claudia Ara Agrippinensium. It was founded in the year 50 AD by the Roman general Agrippa, and was named in honor of Emperor Claudius. It quickly became an important center of trade and commerce due to its strategic location on the Rhine River. Throughout the Middle Ages, Köln continued to thrive as a major trading center and was a key player in the Hanseatic League. It was also a center of art and learning, with the famous theologian and philosopher Thomas Aquinas studying at the University of Köln in the 13th century. During the 16th and 17th centuries, Köln was hit hard by wars and plagues, but managed to recover and continue to grow. In the 19th century, it became a major industrial center and played a key role in the development of Germany's chemical industry. Unfortunately, Köln suffered extensive damage during World War II, with nearly 90% of the city center destroyed. However, much of the historic architecture and cultural heritage was rebuilt and restored in the post-war period, including the famous Köln Cathedral, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Koblenz is a city steeped in history, with its origins dating back to Roman times when it was known as "Confluentes," a Latin term meaning "the confluence of two rivers." The city was strategically located at the meeting point of the Rhine and Moselle rivers, making it an important trading hub and military stronghold. Throughout its history, Koblenz has been the site of many battles and conflicts. During the Middle Ages, the city was heavily fortified, and many of the structures from that period, such as the city walls, towers, and gates, can still be seen today. The city is renowned for its stunning river scenery, which includes picturesque castles, vineyards, and historic buildings. The Rhine river, which is the longest river in Germany, offers a mesmerizing view of the city's skyline, while the Moselle river provides a quieter and more serene ambiance. The city has a wealth of historic architecture to explore. Visitors can marvel at the striking architecture of the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, the impressive Deutsches Eck monument, and the charming Old Town, which boasts beautiful half-timbered houses and narrow streets.

A highlight of any Middle Rhine cruise is passage through the enchanting Rhine Valley. Here, charming villages welcome visitors with open arms and lush vineyards adorn the hillsides, bearing fruit for some of Germany’s most popular wines. You’ll also encounter medieval castles and fortresses (more than three dozen in total) around nearly every bend—sometimes, right in the middle of the river—and fantastical lore from eons past takes shape in unusual rock formations, like the mythical Lorelei with its eerie origin story.

Bernkastel is a charming town located in the heart of the Moselle wine region in Germany. It is famous for its picturesque half-timbered houses and its role in the production of some of the world's finest Riesling wines. Visitors can explore the town's historic center, where they will find the beautiful Market Square, the St. Michael's Fountain, and the ruins of the Landshut Castle. And for those who enjoy wine, there are many wineries in and around Bernkastel offering tastings and tours.

Trier is one of Germany's oldest cities and is steeped in history. Visitors can explore the city's Roman past by visiting the Porta Nigra, the best-preserved Roman city gate north of the Alps, and the impressive Roman amphitheater. The city also boasts many other historic landmarks, such as the imposing Trier Cathedral and the Electoral Palace, which was once the residence of the prince-electors of Trier. For those looking to unwind, Trier's many parks and gardens offer a peaceful retreat, while the bustling market squares and shopping districts are perfect for a day of shopping and people-watching.