Rhine River cruise: An Unforgettable Experience

  • Further down on this website:
    19 Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for Rhine River Day Cruises
  • A Rhine River cruise offers a unique way to explore the stunning landscapes and rich history of Germany.
  • Whether you're embarking on a one-week trip or a shorter day cruise, the experience is sure to be memorable.

Starting Your Journey on the Rhine River

  • When you arrive at Frankfurt Airport, the best way to travel is to take a train from the Frankfurt Airport station to Rüdesheim on the Rhine River.
  • From there, you can board a day cruise boat that will take you through the picturesque Rhine Valley, renowned for its charming villages, vineyards, and historic castles.
  • The course of the Rhine River is dotted with attractions that make each stop worthwhile, including the famous Loreley Rock, which is a highlight for many travelers.

What to Expect on a Rhine River Cruise

  • During your day boat cruise on the Middle Rhine River between Rüdesheim and St. Goar, where you can see Rheinfels Castle, you can enjoy breathtaking views of the valley and the iconic landscapes that have inspired countless artists and writers.
  • St. Goar is home to numerous stores and local markets where you can sample regional delicacies and purchase unique souvenirs.
  • On the day cruise, the towns along the banks of the Rhine and the castles are explained, allowing you to gain insight into the history and culture of the Loreley Valley (Middle Rhine Valley) you are visiting.

Cost Considerations

  • The cost of a Rhine River cruise can vary significantly based on the duration and the amenities offered.
  • Day trips are generally more affordable, while longer cruises that include meals and excursions may require a larger budget.
  • A Rhine cruise from Rüdesheim to St. Goar on a day trip boat will cost EUR 27 per person one way in 2025.
  • The outward and return journeys together will cost just EUR 30.
  • Seniors over 65 years of age pay EUR 21.60 one way and EUR 24 for a return ticket.
  • Children accompanied by parents pay EUR 9.
  • School groups and students pay EUR 13.50 and EUR 15, respectively.
  • It's advisable to compare different cruise lines and packages to find one that fits your preferences and budget.

A Rhine cruise is a fantastic way

  • to experience the beauty and culture of the Middle Rhine River.
  • With 2-day and multi-day options, www.rhine.vacation-package.net allows you to customize your trip to fit your schedule and interests.
  • Whether you cruise through the enchanting countryside or explore the wine towns and romantic castles along the Rhine River, you're sure to create lasting memories of this remarkable adventure.

Plan your Rhine River adventure and explore the most captivating castles in just 2, 3 or 4 days! Along the 65 km stretch of the Middle Rhine River between Koblenz, Boppard, Lorelei Rock and Rüdesheim, you will find around 30 castles and ruins.


19 Frequently Asked Questions and Answers for Rhine River Day Cruises:

Question 1: What is the best Time to Visit the Rhine Valley

Answer 1: Best Time to Visit the Rhine Valley
The main season for day passenger ships on the Rhine is between April 26 and October 5, 2025. During this time, you will have the greatest selection of trips and can fully enjoy the picturesque landscape of the Rhine Valley.
Pre-season: From April 5 to April 25, 2025, not all day passenger ships operate on the Middle Rhine. This may mean that the frequency of trips is lower and some routes might not be available.
Post-season: From October 6 to October 26, 2025, it is also true that not all ships are in operation. This is a good time for less crowded experiences, but you should check in advance about the available trips.
Overall, the best time to visit the Rhine Valley is during the main season when the ships operate regularly, allowing you to experience the beauty of the region to the fullest.
For more details, you can visit this link: Rheinschifffahrt.de

Question 2: Can you tell me if there are any boat companies that operate tours in winter on the Rhine? Thanks, John Fillmore

Answer 2: Yes, there are options for Rhine River cruises during the winter months.
While pleasure boat cruises and sightseeing excursions are limited, you can find day and half-day cruises operating in the low season months of November and March, as well as throughout December, January, and February.
For more information, please visit Vacation-package.net/winter to explore available tours.

Question 3: Are there car ferries/boats on the Rhine River? Thanks, Millard Pierce

  • Answer 3: Yes, there are many car ferries on the Rhine River.
    However, these ferries only operate between the left bank and the right bank of the river.
    It's important to note that there are no car ferries for longer routes, such as from Frankfurt to Mainz, Mainz to Bingen/Rüdesheim, or Bingen/Rüdesheim to Koblenz. Similarly, there are no ferries operating from Koblenz to Köln/Cologne or between other towns and villages along the Rhine River.
    For more specific routes and options, it’s recommended to check local ferry services at Rhein-info.de/faehren

Question 4: I want to try and plan a day trip on the Rhine. I have clients who want to stay in Mainz on the 18th and 19th of June. They want to go on a cruise on the Rhine on the 19th of June. I believe they would board in Rüdesheim. Is that correct? Is it a one-way trip from Rüdesheim to Boppard? How do they get back to Mainz? I hope you can help me plan this...
Yours sincerely, Lisa Oldham

Answer 4: Thank you for your question, Lisa!
Here’s how you can effectively plan the day trip for your clients:
If your clients choose to take a day passenger ship from Rüdesheim to Boppard, please note that it will not be possible for them to return to Mainz by ship on the same day.
They would need to make at least part of the return journey by train.
A more convenient option would be to start the Rhine cruise directly from Mainz at 9:15 a.m.
This route allows them to enjoy a scenic journey past Rüdesheim, charming towns, historic castles, and the famous Loreley Rock, traveling as far as St. Goar.
They can then remain on the same ship for the return trip, arriving back in Mainz at 6:40 p.m.
Please keep in mind that this specific day cruise from Mainz operates only between April 26 and October 5, 2025, and does not run on Mondays.
I hope this helps you plan a memorable experience for your clients!
If you have any further questions, please feel free to check this link for more Information:
Rheinschifffahrt.de/mainz

Question 5: I want to take a boat trip from Cologne to Bingen. How long does it take? Is there a morning trip? Jack Beatty

Answer 5: Thank you for your inquiry, Jack!
The boat trip from Cologne to Bingen covers approximately 150 kilometers and typically takes around 13 hours on a standard day cruise.
This duration means that it would consume an entire day without allowing much time to explore the beautiful castles along the way.
Here’s a breakdown of the journey:

  • The segment from Cologne to Koblenz (about 90 kilometers) takes approximately 9 hours.
  • The journey from Koblenz to Bingen (around 60 kilometers) takes about 6 hours.

Due to the lengthy travel time, this specific route is not offered by any day passenger ships, and unfortunately, there are no morning trips available for this journey.

Alternative Recommendation:
We recommend a delightful Rhine boat trip from Cologne to Königswinter, departing at 9:30 a.m. and arriving at 1:30 p.m..
In Königswinter, you can disembark and take Germany's steepest cogwheel railway, located north of the Alps, to the viewing point at the Drachenfels ruins.
This spot offers stunning views of the Rhine Valley and Bonn.
After enjoying the sights, they can return to the Rhine Valley and take the boat back to Cologne.
Return times are as follows:
Fridays and Saturdays: Depart at 3:40 p.m., arriving in Cologne at 6:00 p.m.
Sundays and Tuesdays to Thursdays: Depart at 4:40 p.m., arriving in Cologne at 7:00 p.m.
Please note that this Rhine boat service operates from April 26 to October 5, 2025, and does not run on Mondays.
For more details, you can visit this link:
Rheinschifffahrt.de/koeln

Question 6: We want to get on the boat in Bacharach and travel to St. Goar.
We then want to rent bikes and cycle back to our car in Bacharach.
Can you tell me at what times we can get on the boat in Bacharach, how long the journey to St. Goar takes, and whether there are bike shops in St. Goar that will rent us bikes for a one-way trip? Oliver Eisenhower

Answer 6: Thank you for your question, Oliver!
You can enjoy a delightful boat trip from Bacharach to St. Goar.
For the latest departure times and journey duration, please refer to the official schedule here:
Rheinschifffahrt.de/bacharach
The journey typically takes about 45-50 minutes, as the boat needs to make stops in Kaub and Oberwesel along the way.
However, please note that there are no bike rental shops in St. Goar.
If you plan to cycle back to Bacharach, I recommend renting bikes in Bacharach before you embark on your boat trip.
You can also find more rental options in 55430 Oberwesel, Schaarplatz 2, which is nearby.
While in St. Goar, take the opportunity to visit the Rheinfels Castle, the largest fortress ruin in western Germany.
It offers stunning views and a fascinating glimpse into the region's history.
For more information about the castle, you can visit:
Rhine.vacation-package.net/st-goar-castle-rheinfels.html
and
St-goar.mittelrhein.info/8-burg-rheinfels-anfahrt/index.html

Question 7: Which boats travel from Koblenz to Rüdesheim? I need departure time, arrival time and price. Thank you, Virginia Griggs

Answer 7: Thank you for your inquiry, Virginia!
There is a passenger boat that operates on the Rhine River from Koblenz to Rüdesheim from April 26 to October 6, 2025, excluding Mondays. Here are the details:
Departure from Koblenz: 9:00 a.m.
Arrival in Rüdesheim: 3:20 p.m.
Return Departure from Rüdesheim: 4:15 p.m.
Arrival back in Koblenz: 8:00 p.m.
For the latest information on prices and to check availability for day cruises, please visit the official website:
Rheinschifffahrt.de/koblenz
While in Rüdesheim, be sure to explore the famous Drosselgasse, a charming street lined with shops and restaurants.
You can also take the cable car to the Niederwald Monument for stunning views of the Rhine Valley.
If you prefer to return to Koblenz by train, hourly trains are available from Rüdesheim station, with a travel time of about 60 minutes.

Question 8: Arriving in Cologne around June and continuing on to Munich. We wanted to take the time to take a boat trip on the Rhine and visit a few castles. Which castles are open for tours and which castles can be visited by boat? Are there websites that show me all the castles and moorings on the Rhine? Thanks, Cathie Madison

  • Answer 8: Thank you for your question, Cathie!
    Planning a Rhine River adventure is a fantastic idea, especially if you’re interested in exploring castles and enjoying scenic boat trips.
    Here’s how you can make the most of your journey:
    Discover Castles Along the Middle Rhine
    The Middle Rhine Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is home to around 30 castles and ruins along a stunning 65 km stretch between Koblenz, Boppard, Lorelei Rock, and Rüdesheim.
    Many of these castles are open for tours, offering a glimpse into the region’s rich history and breathtaking views of the Rhine River.
    For a comprehensive guide to castles and moorings, visit this website:
    Rhine.vacation-package.net
  • Part 1: Begin your journey in the charming town of Boppard, where you can embark on a relaxing river cruise heading south.
    Along the way, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of the Rhine’s scenic riverbanks, dotted with castles and picturesque villages.
    Learn more about starting your cruise in Boppard here:
    Rhine.vacation-package.net/start-in-boppard.html
  • Part 2: Take some time to explore the picturesque town of Boppard before embarking on a relaxing river cruise. To reach the "Boppard Chairlift," take bus number 670 from Boppard "Hauptbahnhof" (main station) to the “Sesselbahn” (chairlift) stop. Once there, ride the chairlift to the breathtaking "Four Seas View" (Vierseenblick) viewing point on the Rhine hills, standing at 273 meters, where you can enjoy stunning views of the Rhine loop:
    Rhine.vacation-package.net/boppard-rhine.html
  • Tips for Visiting Castles by Boat
    Many castles along the Rhine are accessible by boat, with passenger ships stopping at key towns like St. Goar, Oberwesel, and Bacharach, where you can explore nearby castles such as Rheinfels Castle, Schönburg, and Burg Stahleck. Be sure to check the boat schedules and plan your stops accordingly:
    Rhine.vacation-package.net/boppard-to-st-goar.html

Question 9: I am very interested in taking a cruise on the Rhine, but all the information I have gathered is very confusing.
We will be departing from Munich on May 23rd.
We need to arrive in Amsterdam on May 25th or 26th.
We would like to travel along the Rhine to our destination. Is there a way to do this? Thank you for your time. Jenny Couch

Answer 9: Thank you for your inquiry, Jenny!
Planning a cruise along the Rhine can be a wonderful experience, and I’m here to help clarify your options for your journey from Munich to Amsterdam.
Travel Itinerary Overview
Train from Munich to Rüdesheim: Start your adventure by taking a train from Munich to Rüdesheim. This charming town is a fantastic starting point for your Rhine cruise.
Boat Options from Rüdesheim:
From Rüdesheim, you can take a boat to St. Goar with a departure at 11:00 AM, arriving by 1:15 PM.
Alternatively, there’s a boat departing at 2:15 PM, arriving at 4:10 PM.
You can also enjoy a scenic boat ride to Boppard, departing at 4:15 PM and arriving at 6:50 PM.
Connections to Amsterdam:
Both St. Goar and Boppard have train stations conveniently located just a short walk from the boat docks.
If you choose to take the boat from Rüdesheim to Koblenz in the afternoon, please note that you won’t arrive until 8:00 PM, which will require a longer walk to reach the main train station.
Trains to Amsterdam:
From St. Goar, Boppard, or Koblenz, you can catch a train to Amsterdam via Cologne, with departures available every hour.
Helpful Resources
For more detailed information on your options, including schedules and ticket prices, I recommend checking the following websites:
Rhine.vacation-package.net/start-in-rudesheim.html
and
Rheinschifffahrt.de/ruedesheim/index.html

Question 10: I have clients arriving in Frankfurt who are interested in a one day Rhine cruise. Can they get one from Frankfurt and do you know approximately how long it will take and for how long? Thanks. Jack Cunningham

Answer 10: Thank you for your inquiry, Jack!
Unfortunately, there are no direct day boat trips from Frankfurt Airport to popular Rhine Valley destinations such as Mainz, Rüdesheim, Bingen, or Koblenz. However, I can suggest a wonderful alternative for your clients.
Travel Itinerary Overview
Train to Rüdesheim: Upon arriving at Frankfurt Airport, the best option is to take a train from the Frankfurt Airport station to Rüdesheim. This charming town is an ideal starting point for a Rhine cruise.
Day Cruise on the Rhine River:
Once in Rüdesheim, your clients can board a day cruise boat that will take them through the stunning Rhine Valley.
This area is famous for its picturesque villages, lush vineyards, and historic castles.
Highlights Along the Rhine River Route:
The Rhein River day boat cruise will pass by numerous attractions, including the iconic Loreley Rock, which is a must-see for many travelers.
Helpful Resources
For more detailed information on schedules, ticket prices, and available day boat cruises, I recommend visiting the following websites:
https://www.rhine.vacation-package.net/start-in-rudesheim.html
and
https://www.rheinschifffahrt.de/ruedesheim/index.html
I hope your clients have a fantastic time exploring the Rhine!

Question 11: I want to take a round trip boat trip from Rüdesheim to St. Goar and want to allow some time to visit the Rheinfels Fortress and spend some time in St. Goar. How long is just the round trip boat trip from Rüdesheim to St. Goar and back? Can I take time between the return trip to spend time in St. Goar? Thanks, John Cox

Answer 11: Thanks for your question, John!
A round trip by boat from Rüdesheim to St. Goar takes about 100 to 110 minutes downstream at normal water levels.
The return trip upstream from St. Goar to Rüdesheim typically takes around 175 to 210 minutes.
Planning Your Trip
To effectively plan your journey, it is recommend checking the schedules and prices for the cruise tickets from Rüdesheim to St. Goar on the following websites:
Rhine.vacation-package.net/start-in-rudesheim.html
and
Rheinschifffahrt.de/ruedesheim
This way, you can find the best options that fit your schedule and ensure you have enough time to enjoy your visit.
Exploring St. Goar and Rheinfels Castle
While in St. Goar, take the opportunity to explore this charming town and visit Rheinfels Castle.
As the largest fortress ruin in western Germany, it offers breathtaking views of the Rhine Valley and features Europe’s largest self-supporting vaults along with numerous kilometers of underground passages.
The interior tour includes a well-organized and informative museum, which is the second most visited local history museum in Rhineland-Palatinate.
For more information about Rheinfels Castle, please visit:
Rhine.vacation-package.net/st-goar-castle-rheinfels.html
and
St-goar.mittelrhein.info/8-burg-rheinfels-anfahrt

Question 12: We will come from Frankfurt to take the Rhine River tour from Rudesheim. We would like to stay at the Schonburg castle near Oberwesel and Lorelei Rock overnight and then get back on the Rhine River tour to go North to Boppard. From Boppard we take a train to Amsterdam. Thank you for helping me. James Lincoln

Answer 12: Rhine River Tour Itinerary with Overnight Stay at Schönburg Castle
Thank you for sharing your travel plans, James!
Your journey along the Rhine River sounds delightful, and I’m happy to help you organize it.
Step 1: Travel from Frankfurt Airport Station to Rüdesheim
From Frankfurt Airport station, take a train to Rüdesheim am Rhein, one of the most popular starting points for Rhine River cruises. The train ride takes approximately 19 to 34 minutes, depending on the connection. Once in Rüdesheim, you can board a riverboat to begin your cruise.
Step 2: Cruise from Rüdesheim to Oberwesel
From Rüdesheim, take a Rhine River cruise heading south towards Oberwesel. Along the way, you’ll pass charming towns like Bacharach, with its picturesque Stahleck Castle, and Kaub, where you can see Gutenfels Castle and the unique Pfalzgrafenstein Castle, situated on an island in the Rhine. Oberwesel, your destination, is a charming town known for its medieval atmosphere and proximity to Schönburg Castle. The boat ride from Rüdesheim to Oberwesel typically takes about 80 minutes, depending on water levels.
Step 3: Stay Overnight at Schönburg Castle
Schönburg Castle, located in Oberwesel, is a fantastic place to stay. This historic castle offers breathtaking views of the Rhine Valley and provides a unique overnight experience. Be sure to book your stay in advance, as it is a popular destination.
Step 4: Continue the Cruise North
There is no direct boat service from Oberwesel to Boppard in the morning or at lunchtime. The only boat trip from Oberwesel to Boppard departs at 5:35 p.m., arriving in Boppard at 6:50 p.m. Alternatively, you can take a midday cruise from Oberwesel at 10:20 a.m. or (except Mondays) 12:20 p.m. to St. Goar, passing the famous Lorelei Rock along the way. St. Goar is home to the impressive Rheinfels Castle, which is worth exploring before continuing your journey.
Step 5: Train from St. Goar to Amsterdam
Once you arrive in St. Goar, you can easily catch a train to Amsterdam. Trains from St. Goar typically connect through Cologne (Köln), with frequent departures throughout the day. The total travel time to Amsterdam is approximately 4–5 hours, depending on the connection.
Additional Tips
Cruise Schedules and Tickets: Be sure to check the cruise schedules in advance to plan your stops and connections. You can find detailed information on these websites:
Rhine.vacation-package.net/start-in-rudesheim.html
and
Rheinschifffahrt.de/ruedesheim
and
Rheinschifffahrt.de/oberwesel
Schönburg Castle Reservations: Schönburg Castle is a popular destination, so it’s recommended to book your stay well in advance. Visit these Website:
Rhinecastles.com/hotel-schoenburg/e
Enjoy your Rhine River adventure! Safe travels!

Question 13: My wife and I are planning a vacation trip to Germany in September for about four weeks. We would like to land in Düsseldorf or Cologne and from there take a boat trip up the Rhine, perhaps to Mainz.
Can you travel this route on a day passenger ship without changing or how often do you have to change where?
We would then like to drive to Heidelberg and from there along the Burgenstrasse and the Romantikstrasse to Neuschwanstein Castle.
Can you offer us the options for a boat trip from Cologne to Mainz and explain them using the website
Rhine.vacation-package.net ?
Thank you in advance for your effort. Gideon B. Jefferson.

Answer 13: Boat Trip from Cologne to Mainz
The Rhine River is a popular route for scenic boat trips, and there are several day cruise ships offering cruises for various sections along this stretch.
The most scenic part of the Rhine is the Middle Rhine Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which lies between Koblenz, St. Goar and Rüdesheim.
This area is famous for its 30 castles, vineyards, and charming towns.
Options for Boat Trips
Long route with hop-on hop-off day cruises on the Rhine River:
It is not possible to cover the entire route from Cologne to Mainz on a single day passenger ship without changing trains.
The route from Cologne to Koblenz would take 8 hours and 50 minutes.
However, since 2017, the Rhine ship from Cologne has only been traveling to Linz am Rhein.
Since 2017, you have to take the train between Linz am Rhein and Koblenz.
From Koblenz to Mainz, the Rhine navigation would take 8 hours and 30 minutes.
This long route has no longer been offered since 2014.
Since 2014, it has been recommended to drive from Koblenz to St. Goar to visit Rheinfels Castle, then drive from St. Goar along the Lorelei Rock to Rüdesheim the following day, and from Rüdesheim to Mainz the next day.
Recommendation for Planning
Visit these websites for detailed schedules, routes, and ticket options:
Rhine.vacation-package.net
and
Rheinschifffahrt.de .
Select your Rhine River day cruise departure points on
Rhine.vacation-package.net/day-boat-cruise-shipping-company.html
Driving to Heidelberg and Beyond
After reaching Mainz, you can rent a car to drive to Heidelberg. From there, you can follow the Burgenstrasse (Castle Road) and the Romantikstrasse (Romantic Road) to Neuschwanstein Castle.
These routes are well-marked and pass through picturesque towns and historic sites, making for a memorable road trip.

Question 14: Rhine River Tour from Koblenz
We are planning to drive down from Cologne and start our Rhine River tour in Koblenz. We would like to stay overnight at the castle hotel Liebenstein near Kamp-Bornhofen and the Lorelei Rock. Could you provide more information on how long the cruise would take to get to the castle? Can we catch the boat back to Koblenz to retrieve our car? What do you think would be the best way to do this? Thanks, Julie Adams.

Answer 14: Two Rhine ships operate from Koblenz to Kamp-Bornhofen (except Mondays).
The departure times are as follows:
Departure at 9:00 a.m., arriving at 11:10 a.m.
Departure at 12:00 p.m., arriving at 2:10 p.m.
You can find more details at: Rheinschifffahrt.de/koblenz.
Please note that you won't see the Lorelei Rock on this route.
Upon arrival in Kamp-Bornhofen, it’s a short 3-minute walk from the landing stage to the Hotel Deutsches Haus.
The owner of Liebenstein Castle will then transfer you to the castle hotel.
The next morning, you will be transferred back to Kamp-Bornhofen.
For your return trip to Koblenz, only these two ships travel back from Kamp-Bornhofen (except Mondays):
Departure at 4:15 p.m., arriving at 5:40 p.m.
Departure at 6:40 p.m., arriving at 8:00 p.m.
Alternatively, you might enjoy a half-day Rhine River cruise from Kamp-Bornhofen heading south. This route passes Welmich with the Maus (Mouse) Castle, St. Goarshausen with the Katz (Cat) Castle, and finally arrives in St. Goar, home to Rheinfels Castle.
You can take the ship from Kamp-Bornhofen to St. Goar at either 10:10 a.m. or 11:10 a.m. on the second day and visit Rheinfels Castle, where you can also see the Lorelei Rock.
For more information, visit:

Rheinschifffahrt.de/kamp-bornhofen
and
Rhine.vacation-package.net/boppard-to-st-goar.html
and
Rhine.vacation-package.net/st-goar-castle-rheinfels.html
After your visit, you can take the train from St. Goar back to Koblenz, which runs every hour.
This plan allows you to enjoy the scenic beauty of the Rhine while ensuring a smooth experience during your stay at the castle hotel.

Question 15: We are traveling in a minivan from the Wuppertal area and have a reservation at the Castle Hotel Schönburg. We would like to enjoy a short Rhine cruise during our stay, but we need a place to park our vehicle and return to it afterward. What would be the best way to accomplish this? Thank you very much. Kind regards, Ann Seals

Answer 15: Drive your minivan to the riverside in Oberwesel, where you will find a large parking lot near the boat landing stages.
From there, you can take a scenic boat trip along the Loreley Rock to St. Goar, where you can visit Rheinfels Castle.
After your visit, you can either return by boat to Oberwesel or, if you're running late, catch a train back to Oberwesel, which departs every hour.
The parking lot is approximately a 500-meter walk from the Oberwesel train station.

Question 16: We will rent a car and drive to Bingen, where we plan to stay overnight. We would like to take a half-day boat trip on the Rhine River from Bingen to Koblenz and then board a train to Paris. However, most timetables I’ve checked seem to stop in Boppard or St. Goar. Do you have a recommendation? Kind regards, Larry Black

Answer 16: There is only one direct Rhine boat from Bingen to Koblenz, departing at 4:30 p.m. and arriving at 8:00 p.m. (without Mondays).
If you prefer to sail earlier in the day, you will need to change boats in St. Goar to Boppard or Koblenz.
Alternatively, you can take a train to Koblenz every hour from both St. Goar and Boppard.
The train stations in St. Goar and Boppard are conveniently located near the shipping docks, making transfers easy.
However, please note that the main train station in Koblenz is a bit farther from the shipping pier.
For a smooth travel experience, consider the following option:
Boat schedule from Bingen: Rheinschifffahrt.de/bingen
This way, you can enjoy a scenic cruise while ensuring a timely connection to your train to Paris.
Safe travels!

Question 17: I would like to take a trip on the Rhine River from St. Goar to Mainz. Would that be possible? Thank you very much. Dave Allens

Answer 17: A Rhine ship leaves St. Goar for Mainz at 1:15 p.m., arriving at 6:40 p.m. (except Mondays).
For a smooth travel experience, consider the following option:
Boat schedule from St. Goar: Rheinschifffahrt.de/st-goar-loreley
This way, you can enjoy a scenic cruise along the Rhine River.
Thank you for your inquiry, and safe travels!

Question 28: I am interested in more information about the Rhine River and visiting castles, but I would also like to see the length of the Rhine from Düsseldorf to Basel to get an overview. We also take some of your half-day trips between Boppard and Bingen with us. Thank you for your courtesy. Kind regards, Toby Smith

Answer 28: It is not possible to combine a multi-day ship trip with an overnight stay on a cabin ship from Düsseldorf to Basel and at the same time take half-day trips between Boppard and Bingen. You can only choose one of the two options. Here are some important details to consider:
Multi-Day Trips:
Multi-day boat trips from Düsseldorf to Basel do not stop to visit the 30 castles or the charming half-timbered villages on the Middle Rhine.
The canalized section of the Rhine between Mainz and Basel is relatively flat and lacks the scenic mountains and castles of the Middle Rhine. Instead, you will mostly see trees along the riverbanks for extended periods.
Day Passenger Ships:
Day passenger ships do not operate between Düsseldorf and Cologne, nor between Linz am Rhein and Koblenz, and not on the canalized Upper Rhine between Mainz and Basel.
However, day trips on the Middle Rhine are available between Cologne and Linz am Rhein and between Koblenz and Mainz.
Half-Day Trips:
The most scenic part of the Rhine is the Middle Rhine Valley, particularly between Koblenz, Boppard, St. Goar, Lorelei Rock, and Rüdesheim, where you can enjoy half-day trips. This area is famous for its castles, vineyards, and picturesque villages.
For more information and to plan your trip, you can visit the following websites:
Day trips on the Rhine: Rheinschifffahrt.de
and
General Rhine travel information: Rhine.vacation-package.net
If you are particularly interested in castles, the Middle Rhine Valley is the best choice, as it offers a concentration of historic sites and breathtaking scenery. Enjoy your journey along the Rhine!

Question 19: Is it possible to take the train from Frankfurt to the nearest city on the Rhine, do a day trip there and then take the train back to Frankfurt? We will be in Frankfurt and were hoping to see something of the Rhine there. Thank you very much. Sandy Upton

Answer 19: Yes, it is definitely possible to take a day trip from Frankfurt to a nearby city on the Rhine by train! One of the most convenient options is to travel to Rüdesheim or Bingen, both charming towns on the Rhine from which passenger ships depart along the Middle Rhine, including scenic routes to Loreley Rock and St. Goar to visit Rheinfels Castle.
Travel time: From Frankfurt Airport to Bingen with the RE train takes about 61 minutes without changing; with other trains, it may take up to 100 minutes. From Bingen Stadt station, it’s a 300 m walk to the landing stage, and from Bingen Hauptbahnhof, it’s about 1100 m.
From Frankfurt Airport to Rüdesheim, the journey takes between 73 and 103 minutes with different trains. From Rüdesheim Hauptbahnhof, it’s a 600 m walk to the landing stage.
Planing your Rhine River day cruise:
To effectively plan your journey, it is recommended to check the schedules and prices for the cruise tickets from Rüdesheim or Bingen to St. Goar on the following websites:
Rhine.vacation-package.net/start-in-rudesheim.html
and
Rheinschifffahrt.de/ruedesheim
and
Rheinschifffahrt.de/bingen
After returning with the Rhine ship, you can easily take the train back to Frankfurt from either Bingen or Rüdesheim. This trip allows you to experience the beauty of the Rhine Valley without the need for an overnight stay, making it a perfect day trip option from Frankfurt. Enjoy your visit!


Plan your Rhine River adventure and explore the most captivating castles in just 2, 3 or 4 days! Along the 65 km stretch of the Middle Rhine River between Koblenz, Boppard, Lorelei Rock and Rüdesheim, you will find around 30 castles and ruins.


Middle Rhine River map 440, © 1997 WHO

Map Bacharach, © 1998 WHO


Germany, Rhine River Valley, Mainz, Rudesheim, Bacharach, Lorelei Rock, Koblenz Nonsmoking Canopy bed holiday apartment Hermann, ask for Last Minute Offers Central quiet location in Oberwesel on the Rhine river. Renovated in 2015, 55 sqm. Bedroom with historic four-poster bed and satellite TV, living room with sofa bed and satellite TV, kitchen, free Wi-Fi, balcony, terrace. Car parking. 4 boat landing stages. 630 meters from castle Schonburg. Favorable permanent rental price from Nov. to March.  
Rhine River cruises to visit German wine festivals in 2025 and 2026 Rhine River Lights firework displays with half day round boat cruises A spectacular firework display during a boat trip in the Middle Rhine River Valley between Koblenz / Coblence, Lahnstein, Boppard, St. Goar, Loreley Rock, Oberwesel, Bacharach, Assmannshausen, Bingen and Rudesheim. The boat cruise with DJ music and dance on board is starting from different wine towns with wine hikings and wine festivals.  
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Plan your Rhine River adventure and explore the most captivating castles in just 2, 3 or 4 days! Along the 65 km stretch of the Middle Rhine River between Koblenz, Boppard, Lorelei Rock and Rüdesheim, you will find around 30 castles and ruins.


Plan your Rhine River adventure and explore the most captivating castles in just 2, 3 or 4 days! Along the 65 km stretch of the Middle Rhine River between Koblenz, Boppard, Lorelei Rock and Rüdesheim, you will find around 30 castles and ruins.

Part 1: Start Your Rhine River Cruise in the delightful town of Boppard, embarking on a journey south along the scenic riverbanks. Enjoy the stunning views, rich history, and captivating atmosphere that this region has to offer.

Part 2: Take some time to explore the picturesque town of Boppard before embarking on a relaxing river cruise. To reach the "Boppard Chairlift," take bus number 670 from Boppard "Hauptbahnhof" (main station) to the “Sesselbahn” (chairlift) stop. Once there, ride the chairlift to the breathtaking "Four Seas View" (Vierseenblick) viewing point on the Rhine hills, standing at 273 meters, where you can enjoy stunning views of the Rhine loop.

Rheinschifffahrt zwischen Boppard, Loreley, St. Goar, St. Goarshausen, Kamp-Bornhofen und Kestert

Sterrenberg and Liebenstein Castles above Kamp-Bornhofen, known as the legendary "enemy brothers"

Part 3: Enjoy a half-day Rhine River cruise from Boppard, heading south to Kamp-Bornhofen, home to the legendary 'enemy brothers': the Sterrenberg and Liebenstein castles.

Part 4: Spend some time to explore Kamp-Bornhofen, home to the legendary 'enemy brothers': the Sterrenberg and Liebenstein castles. After immersing yourself in the rich history, consider an unforgettable stay at Castle Hotel Liebenstein, the highest castle on the Middle Rhine! Enjoy breathtaking views of the Rhine and the picturesque surroundings. Spend the night in this historic castle and let yourself be enchanted by the beauty of the Rhine Valley before continuing your journey on a relaxing river cruise.

Part 5: Enjoy a half-day Rhine River cruise from Kamp-Bornhofen, heading south. Pass Welmich with the Maus (Mouse) Castle, St. Goarshausen with the Katz (Cat) Castle, and finally arrive in St. Goar, home to Rheinfels Castle.

Burg Rheinfels bei St. Goar am Rhein, Festung

Part 6: From St. Goar to Rheinfels Castle: Begin your journey from the car ferry pier or the town hall (both located on the B9 federal road) in St. Goar. Take bus number 681, which runs every hour in winter and every 30 minutes in summer, directly to Rheinfels Castle. Rheinfels Castle, the largest castle ruin in West Germany, is home to the second most visited local history museum in Rhineland-Palatinate. Explore its fascinating casemates, wander through Europe’s largest vaulted cellar, and discover the medieval castle museum, complete with English labels for an informative experience.

Rheinschifffahrt Schiffsrundfahrt zwischen Koblenz, Boppard und St. Goar mit Burg Rheinfels und Loreley

Rheinschifffahrt zwischen Boppard, Loreley, St. Goar, St. Goarshausen, Bad Salzig und Kamp-Bornhofen

Part 7: Enjoy a half-day Rhine cruise from St. Goar, heading south past the legendary Loreley Rock – marking the narrowest and deepest part of the Rhine (22 meters) – to the enchanting medieval town of Oberwesel and its renowned Schönburg Castle.

Part 8: Take your time in Oberwesel and stroll 500 meters on the historic medieval town wall, letting its timeless charm transport you to another era. Climb the high tower (Steingassenturm) to marvel at the sweeping views of the enchanting Rhine Valley. As the day draws to a close, retreat to the picturesque Schönburg Castle hotel, perched high above the river, and let its enchanting atmosphere complete your unforgettable experience before continuing your journey by boat.

Oberwesel boasts a long-standing tradition of wine-making and invites visitors to explore its scenic vineyards through guided wine hiking tours. These tours include four wine tastings in three different vineyards and lead visitors on 16 Saturdays each year to the stunning 'Sieben-Jungfrauen-Blick' (Seven Virgins View) viewpoint. They are also available for solo travelers.

Tagesausflüge von Oberwesel an den Mittelrhein

Part 9: Half-day Rhine River cruise from Oberwesel heading south to Kaub, where the boat stops for a land excursion. From the boat and Kaub, visitors can admire Gutenfels Castle and the Pfalz moated castle (Pfalzgrafenstein), located on an island in the middle of the Rhine.

Rheinschifffahrt zwischen Rüdesheim, Bingen, Assmannshausen, Trechtingshausen, Niederheimbach, Lorch, Bacharach, Kaub, Oberwesel, Loreley, St. Goar und St. Goarshausen.

Part 10: Spend some time in Kaub and visit the Pfalz moated castle (Pfalzgrafenstein), a unique fortress perched on an island in the middle of the Rhine, before boarding a boat. Gutenfels Castle, located above the town, is privately owned and not open to visitors. While in Kaub, you can also visit the Blüchermuseum, which commemorates Prussian Field Marshal Gebhard Leberecht von Blücher and his pivotal role in the Battle of Waterloo on June 18, 1815, alongside British commander Arthur Wellesley, 1st Duke of Wellington.

Part 11: Half-day Rhine River cruise from Kaub heading south past the Pfalz moated castle (Pfalzgrafenstein) toward Bacharach and Stahleck Castle. The journey passes the 'Wild Danger' (Wildes Gefähr), a striking 400-meter-long rock formation with a steep gradient in the Middle Rhine mountain range, located at Rhine kilometer 544.7.

Bacharach Germany Rhine river banks, boat cruise on the Rhine river, romantic to fall in love

Part 12: Take some time to explore Bacharach before boarding your boat. Stroll through this medieval town along the Rhine, following the walkable city wall.

Stahleck Castle near Bacharach on the Rhine river

The circular route (Stadtmauerrundweg) begins next to “Mainzer Straße No. 2” and spans 418 meters, passing four city towers and leading to Stahleck Castle's courtyard, where you can enjoy stunning views of the Rhine River valley. The return route takes you past the ruins of the Gothic Werner Chapel, leading back to the city center near St. Peter's Church.

Bacharach Germany Rhine River Hotelguide 2025 2026

Join a guided wine hike through the picturesque vineyards to the Postenturm, where you can savor a breathtaking postcard view of Bacharach and Stahleck Castle, accompanied by four delightful wine tastings.

Weinwanderung bei Bacharach Rhein Weinbergführung mit Mittelrhein-Weinprobe im Weinberg oder im Postenturm

Many guests highly recommend the "Rheinhotel" for a comfortable stay, as well as the more budget-friendly hotel-pension "Im Malerwinkel" for those looking for economical overnight accommodations.

Part 13: Enjoy a half-day Rhine River cruise from Bacharach heading south to Assmannshausen or Rüdesheim. Along the way, you'll pass picturesque landmarks, including the Fürstenberg ruins above Rheindiebach, the Nollig ruins above Lorch, Heimburg Castle above Niederheimbach, Sooneck Castle, and the stunning Reichenstein Castle above Trechtingshausen, as well as Rheinstein Castle further along.

Part 14: In Assmannshausen (opposite Rheinstein Castle), take a stroll from the landing stage to the Seilbahn Assmannshausen cable car, which will take you up to the Rhine hills and the Jagdschloss Niederwald castle.

Große geführte Weinwanderung ca. 4 km durch den Landschaftspark Niederwald entlang dem Rheinsteig zum Niederwalddenkmal  und zum Feldtor am Bahnhof Rüdesheim am Rhein mit 4 Weinproben im Weinberg

After that, enjoy a scenic 4 km walk through the Niederwald Landscape Park (Landschaftspark). The hike begins at Jagdschloss Niederwald and follows the Rhine Trail (Rheinsteig) for about 750 meters through the forest, leading you to the enchanting Zauberhöhle cave and onward to the viewpoint at Ruine Rossel. Continuing along the Rhine Trail (Rheinsteig), you'll walk approximately 1800 meters along the ridge of the Rhine hills. At the Naheblick viewpoint, revel in breathtaking views of Ruine Ehrenfels, the Mouse Tower, the mouth of the Nahe River, Bingen with Burg Klopp, and the stunning Rhine Valley.

Große geführte Weinwanderung ca. 4 km durch den Landschaftspark Niederwald entlang dem Rheinsteig zum Niederwalddenkmal  und zum Feldtor am Bahnhof Rüdesheim am Rhein mit 4 Weinproben im Weinberg

On your journey, you'll encounter information panels, the Eremitage, and finally reach the highlight of your hike: the famous Niederwald Monument (Niederwald-Denkmal).

Part 15: The Niederwald Monument (Niederwald-Denkmal) offers another spectacular vantage point to admire the Rhine, the picturesque Rhine River valley, and the sprawling vineyards of the Rheingau region. Just northeast of the monument, you’ll find the Seilbahn Rüdesheim cable car, which provides a comfortable ride down to the charming town of Rüdesheim along the Rhine. Once in Rüdesheim, don’t miss the famous Drosselgasse, a delightful 144-meter-long alleyway filled with vibrant shops and eateries. At the upper end of Drosselgasse, take a short 30-meter walk to Siegfried's Mechanical Music Cabinet, home to over 400 self-playing antique musical instruments.


Plan your Rhine River adventure and explore the most captivating castles in just 2, 3 or 4 days! Along the 65 km stretch of the Middle Rhine River between Koblenz, Boppard, Lorelei Rock and Rüdesheim, you will find around 30 castles and ruins.


Arriving from Cologne (Köln) Airport, your adventure begins as you travel along the picturesque route to Boppard in the stunning Rhine River valley.

  • Many outdated travel guides suggest a one-day boat trip from Cologne to Mainz or vice versa.
  • However, this lengthy route has not been serviced by day passenger ships for several years.
  • Similarly, the stretch between Koblenz and Linz on the Rhine River has lost its appeal, with no day passenger ships operating in that area anymore.
  • Instead, we recommend a more efficient journey: traveling the 120 km from Cologne to Boppard by car or train, which runs every hour.

There are no daily boat cruises from Frankfurt city or Frankfurt Airport to Mainz or Wiesbaden on the Rhine River.


Winter schedule: Rhine River Half-Day Round Cruise

  • During the winter months of November, December, January, February, and March, half-day round cruises on the Rhine River are available, although options may be limited.
  • These cruises are particularly popular during the Christmas market season, with departures from key locations such as Rüdesheim, Boppard, and Cologne.
  • For those looking to experience the beauty of the Rhine in winter, Rüdesheim is conveniently accessible by train from Frankfurt, making it an ideal starting point for winter and Christmas market cruises.
  • The winter program typically operates from late October through early April, ensuring that visitors can enjoy the scenic views and festive atmosphere along the river.

Translations:

Düsseldorf = Dusseldorf = Duesseldorf
Frankfurt Flughafen = Frankfurt airport
Köln = Koln = Koeln = Cologne
Koblenz = Coblence
Rüdesheim = Rudesheim = Ruedesheim
Mainz = Mayence
Rhein = Rhine River

Rhine in flames, Rhine aflame, Fireworks on Rhine and Mosel rivers


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Status:  Montag, 03. März 2025 - 5283