Unforgettable Excursions That Make the Cruise
One of the things I loved most about our Rhine River cruise with Riverside Debussy was how effortless it felt to explore such a wide variety of destinations. We stepped off the ship and were immediately immersed in centuries of history, breathtaking landscapes, and unforgettable local experiences—all without ever needing to pack a day bag or figure out logistics.
Starting our journey in Amsterdam—one of Europe’s most charming cities to explore by boat and on foot.
With Riverside’s Premium All-Inclusive Package, all excursions were included—and often, we had the option to do two in one day. Some days, the ship would sail ahead while we were off exploring, and Riverside’s luxury coaches would meet us at the next port. This seamless coordination allowed us to see more without feeling rushed or overwhelmed.
If you preferred to explore independently, you could simply walk right off the dock (which we did in both Rüdesheim and Breisach). Even the guided tours often included built-in free time, giving us a lovely balance of time with new friends, time learning from local guides, and time on our own.
These excursions weren’t just stops on an itinerary. They were immersive, well-curated experiences that brought each destination to life. Here are some of our absolute favorites—and why they made our trip so special.
🚶♀️ Cologne City Walk & Cathedral Tour
Standing in awe of Cologne Cathedral—one of the most impressive Gothic structures in Europe.
Cologne’s massive Gothic cathedral dominates the skyline, and seeing it up close was truly awe-inspiring. We joined a guided walking tour through Old Town, learning about Roman ruins, market squares, and the quirky Heinzelmännchen Fountain before stepping inside the cathedral itself.
What made it unforgettable: Our guide brought the city’s history to life, and having time afterward to explore at our own pace was the perfect blend of structure and freedom.
🍷 Land Rover Wine Tour & Eberbach Monastery (Rüdesheim)
One of our favorite days: wine tastings at historic estates and a peaceful walk through Eberbach Monastery’s quiet cloisters.
This small-group excursion through the Rheingau wine region was hands-down one of our favorites. We rode in a chauffeured Land Rover to castle wineries, tasted Rieslings at two of the oldest estates in Germany, and ended with a visit to the serene, historic Eberbach Monastery.
What made it unforgettable: Private wine tastings with castle views, light bites along the way, and time to savor—not rush—the moment.
🛶 Strasbourg Panoramic Tour & Canal Cruise
Cruising through Strasbourg’s picturesque Petite France district, where every corner feels like a fairytale.
Strasbourg is stunning from the water, and this combo tour gave us the best of both worlds. We started with a boat ride through the Petite France district, followed by a walking tour of the cathedral and a drive through the European Quarter.
What made it unforgettable: The perfect mix of storybook scenery and international flair, all in one beautifully preserved city.
🏰 Heidelberg Castle & City Tour
Wrapping up a perfect day in Heidelberg with castle views and cobblestone streets beneath our feet.
Heidelberg was a highlight for so many reasons. The castle ruins overlooking the Neckar River, the charming university town below, and the rich history made this excursion feel like a true deep dive into German culture.
What made it unforgettable: Seeing the world’s largest wine barrel inside the castle and strolling through Heidelberg’s Old Town with time to explore on our own.
🍇 Obernai Village Walk & Wine Tasting
The Rheingau region is known for its crisp, elegant Rieslings—and this one did not disappoint.
We crossed into France to visit the charming town of Obernai in the Alsace region. With its pastel-colored half-timbered houses, cobblestone lanes, and flower boxes at every window, it felt like stepping into a storybook. After exploring the village, we enjoyed a guided wine tasting featuring crisp Alsatian whites—especially the region’s signature Rieslings.
What made it unforgettable: The peaceful setting, the authentic feel of the village, and the relaxed pace of sipping wine with new friends in one of France’s prettiest corners.
Starting the day onboard Riverside Debussy—luxury, comfort, and curated adventure just steps away.
If you're someone who wants a mix of cultural discovery and flexibility, this style of travel is hard to beat. Riverside’s approach to excursions gave us structure without feeling rigid, and just enough freedom to make every day feel like our own.
Want a peek at the ship itself? Click here to read Onboard Elegance: What It’s Like to Sail with Riverside Luxury Cruises.
Or explore the full itinerary: Rhine River Treasures: Top Destinations from Amsterdam to Basel.
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