There’s a reason European river cruises are so popular. Renowned for their style, service and comfort, there’s no better way to see the magnificent sights that come with a holiday on the Rhine.
But no one does river cruising quite like Scenic. With a fleet of luxury Scenic Space-Ships, a Scenic river cruise does more than just take you from point A to point B. It lavishes you onboard with boutique style accommodation, gourmet food and top-notch service. And with its all-inclusive pricing, even shore excursions are included.
The Rhine River is undoubtedly one of Scenic’s most popular journeys. Flowing from the Swiss Alps, the Rhine winds its way from the Swiss-Liechtenstein border. Anointing the banks of Austria, it continues through the verdant Rhineland of Germany, and into the Netherlands. Flowing into Amsterdam, its many tributaries continue to the North Sea.
In the cruise world, the route is renowned. Starting in either Amsterdam or in Basel, Switzerland, Scenic Rhine journeys can last anywhere from 8 days to a blissful sojourn lasting up to 15 days.
Part of the cruise experience is the scenery, and the Rhine does not disappoint. Overlooking the iconic waterway, centuries-old castles welcome visitors with their grand stature. Perched above the banks, these remnants of the Renaissance add a touch of European beauty to what is already a fairy-tale like experience.
Sink into a comfy lounge chair on the sundeck as one stately castle after another come into view. Cruising through the Rhine Gorge near Rudesheim, the abundance of hilltop fortresses provide plenty of picture-perfect moments.
These are just some of the magnificent castles that guests will see on their Rhine River cruise.
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Marksburg Castle
In the heart of the Rhineland, at Marksburg Castle, Scenic provides guests with a once-in-a-lifetime experience as part of its Scenic Enrich program. Seen for miles, the castles turrets and towers provide a stunning setting for a special and exclusive evening.
At this historic landmark, you will be treated to a traditional feast, with free-flowing local wine, while being entertained by minstrels and colourful court jesters for a truly unforgettable evening.
Aggstein Castle
The Danube too has its share of castles, and Aggstein Castle is quite the river jewel. Situated hundreds of metres on the cliffs above the Danube, this 12th-century fortress has the perfect birds-eye view of the valley below.
Pfalzgraftenstein castle
While most German castles are perched high above the river on a cliff top or mountain, Pfalzgraftenstein Castle is located on a small island, right in the middle of the Rhine. Built in the 14th century, it played a central role for river commerce as a toll collection stop. Scenic guests will have a close-up view while cruising past this river fortress.
Stahleck Castle
Cruising past Stahleck Castle, near Bacharach in Germany, sightseers will enjoy views of the high stone walls and impressive tower. While the original castle was destroyed, this early 20th-century reproduction is itself one-hundred years old.
Reichenstein Castle
This mammoth fortress strikes an impressive pose from its mountaintop perch. Built in the 12th century, it’s easy to imagine knights-of-old and kings and queens inhabiting its rooms.
