Rhine River Travelers Recommend

One of Germany’s nightlife capitals and ideally located for cruising the Rhine River, Düsseldorf makes a great choice for a city break. Three days is enough to enjoy the highlights and still have time left over for a day trip. Here are some tips on how to make the most of your time in this modern German city.

Day 1: Explore the Old Town

Take in the sights on a walking or Segway tour of Düsseldorf’s historic Old Town (Altstadt), starting at the Burgplatz castle tower, then following the Rheinuferpromenade along the riverfront. Pay a visit to landmarks such as City Hall (Rathaus), St. Lambertus Basilica, Neander Church, and the Rheinpark, then hit the shops along the famous Königsallee (King's Alley). If you’d rather tour the city at your own pace, climb aboard the hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus instead. Spend the evening barhopping in the Altstadt, nicknamed the longest bar in the world for its nearly 300 bars, pubs, and clubs, and be sure to sample the local brew,altbier.

Day 2: Along the Rhine

Spend your second day taking in Düsseldorf’s modern attractions. Start with a morning walk along riverfront Media Harbor, one of the city’s most stylish areas, and take in the unique Frank Gehry buildings and views from the Rheinturm TV tower. After lunch, board a boat for a leisurely cruise along the Rhine River to see the city from a different perspective. Alternatively, spend the afternoon browsing the art collection at the Museum Kunstpalast, or, if you’re traveling with kids, observing marine life at Sea Life Oberhausen. As the sun begins to set, head back to Media Harbor for dinner and cocktails at one of the city’s most glamorous bars or nightclubs.  

Day 3: Get Out of Town

Use your final day to take in nearby sights such as Benrath Castle (Schloss Benrath) or take a day trip to nearby Cologne, where you can view the Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; explore the picturesque Old Town; peruse the acclaimed modern-art collection at Museum Ludwig; or embark on a cruise through the UNESCO-listed Rhine Valley. Other popular choices include Bonn, the birthplace of Ludwig van Beethoven. The Schengen agreement makes day-tripping to another European country a breeze, so you might even consider spending your day touring the hip warehouse district in the Dutch town of Eindhoven.

With vineyards and castles, medieval towns and buzzing cities, the Rhine region is home to some of Germany’s most spectacular and in-demand scenery. Three days is enough time to wend your way down the river (moving south to north, as the river flows) and enjoy sightseeing excursions as you go. Here’s how to enjoy three days in the area.

Day 1: Sightseeing in the Upper Rhine

Famed for its medieval town squares and half-timbered buildings, the charming city of Mainz (which is just a quick trip from Frankfurt) is a wonderful introduction to the Rhine region’s unspoiled beauty. Begin the first day of your trip getting to know this Upper Rhine hub with a walking tour focused on the city’s history; in the space of just a few hours, you can explore the Mainz Cathedral, the historic marketplace, the Mainz Citadel, and other popular sights. 

Once you have your bearings, venture beyond the city limits for a wine tasting tour of one of the world’s most celebrated riesling-producing regions. At day’s end, set off on an evening cruise along the river, or sample local specialties at one of the city’s traditional restaurants.

Day 2: Adventures in the Middle Rhine

Flowing through the dramatic Rhine Gorge, the Middle Rhine—particularly the UNESCO-listed 40-mile (65-kilometer) segment that wends its way from Bingen to Koblenz—is best known for its views of extraordinary castles. Spend a tranquil day aboard a sightseeing cruise to soak up the region’s regal ambiance. As you follow the river on its northward journey, you’ll spy remarkable landmarks like the Stolzenfels Castle, as well as sights like the Lorelei Rock. Upon arrival in Koblenz, tour the city’s historical center and visit the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress before winding down with a glass of the region’s traditional ice wine.

Day 3: Exploring the Lower Rhine

Trade bucolic scenery for urban buzz, and dedicate your final day to exploring the Lower Rhine’s major cities. Start your adventures in lively Cologne: go for a walking tour to see the city’s cathedral and other highlights, or kick back and relax on a sightseeing river cruise. For lunch, enjoy an authentic pairing of kölsch—the city’s native beer—and schnitzel. 

In the afternoon, make a quick trip to Düsseldorf. With its old-meets-new architecture, cutting-edge museums, and pretty riverfront promenade, the city is emblematic of dynamic, modern Germany. Start with a sightseeing crawl in the scenic Old Town (Altstadt) before venturing to a biergarten in the evening to try the city’s traditional altbier along with hearty local fare.

From boat trips to pub crawls, Cologne offers plenty of entertainment. Bike through different neighborhoods, sample craft beer, go museum-hopping, and more. Here’s how to make the most of three days in this German cultural hub on the Rhine River. 

Day 1: Museum visits and dinner cruises

Find your bearings in Cologne with an introductory tour. For maximum flexibility and easy transportation, purchase a hop-on hop-off bus pass that stops at popular attractions such as the Cologne Cathedral and City Hall—or opt for a combo bus/boat package. Alternatively, hit the streets on a group or private walking tour through the historical Old Town. Later, check out some of Cologne’s excellent museums, such as the Farina Fragrance Museum, the Chocolate Museum, and the Odysseum science museum (perfect for kids). In the evening, savor views of the city on a sunset or dinner cruise along the Rhine. 

Day 2: Bike tours and beer crawls

Enjoy the fresh air and cover ground more quickly on the back of a bike. Following a local guide, marvel at landmarks such as the Hohenzollern Bridge while exploring different districts. Themed rides (e.g. a tour of the city’s best Christmas lights) are on offer seasonally. Then, get a taste of German beer culture while learning about Cologne’s history as you stroll among traditional pubs and sample a variety of microbrews. Or, go for a guided pub crawl that includes nightclub entry.

Day 3: Photo tours and day trips

Delve into your creative side with a photography-themed tour. Join a local photographer for tips on topics such as perspective and composition, as you wander around the city center snapping photos. Alternatively, venture beyond Cologne on a day trip—perhaps a sightseeing journey to Königswinter with views of castles, vineyards, and churches along the way. For more flexibility, buy a hop-on hop-off boat pass, getting off wherever you like along the Rhine—towns such as Linz, Koblenz, and Mainz make scenic stops. 

The western German city of Cologne occupies a scenic spot on the banks of the River Rhine. With two days in this dynamic city, you’ll have enough time to hit the highlights, take a scenic river cruise, and taste traditional German beers. Here’s how to get the most out of 48 hours in Cologne. 

Day 1: Boat Cruises and Beer Tours

**Morning:**Get your bearings in Cologne with a ride on the double-decker hop-on hop-off bus, quickly covering top city landmarks including Gothic Cologne Cathedral and city hall. Travelers interested in a sightseeing cruise on the Rhine River may want to investigate tickets that combine the bus with a boat tour. 

**Afternoon:**See Cologne from the deck of a boat with a scenic river cruise. Choose a quick sightseeing cruise within the city, or venture farther afield and admire views of the Rhine River during a journey to a nearby town, taking in castles, vineyards, and churches on the riverbank along the way. 

**Night:**Spend your first evening sampling German craft beers during a night out in Cologne. Choose between history-focused walking tours that visit traditional pubs and pub crawls that include a lively evening of drinking and dancing. Follow your local guide to best experience the atmosphere of Cologne after dark.

Day 2: Cologne by Bike and Museum Time

**Morning:**Devote this morning to exploring Cologne by bike during a guided ride, getting a closer look at landmarks including the Hohenzollern Bridge and the Old Town. Themed bike tours are also available depending on the season, such as tours focused on the city’s Christmas lights.

**Afternoon:**Spend this afternoon exploring the Cologne museum that most interests you. Choose between the Chocolate Museum (bring your sweet tooth), the Farina Fragrance Museum, and, if you’re traveling with the family, the Odysseum science museum for kids. Save time and skip the line by purchasing priority access tickets in advance. 

**Night:**On your final evening in town, take to the Rhine River for a different perspective on  Cologne after dark. Choose between dinner cruises with an included buffet and sunset cruises with à la carte food and drink. Admire views of the illuminated landmarks, including the stunning Gothic Cologne Cathedral, and toast your time in the city. 

Located on the banks of the Rhine River, Cologne is a dynamic German city with a striking Gothic cathedral. With just one day to explore, you can hit the highlights and take a bike tour, river cruise, or pub crawl. Here are a few ways to spend 24 hours in Cologne. 

Morning: Cologne Overview

Begin the day with an introductory tour. Take the double-decker hop-on hop-off bus and see top city landmarks including city hall, the cathedral, and Roncalliplatz, the square where the cathedral stands. A combination ticket also includes a Rhine River sightseeing cruise. To explore the city at a slower pace, opt for a bike tour and follow your guide to the Hohenzollern Bridge, philharmonic hall, and the waterfront district set in the city’s former industrial port. Walking tours include options focused on history and private tours that can be customized according to your individual interests. 

Afternoon: Photography and Chocolate

Discover a new perspective on the landmarks of Cologne with a sightseeing cruise. Choose from several departure times and climb aboard a boat for a scenic trip along the Rhine River. Learn about local history while admiring views of Cologne Cathedral and the colorful Old Town. If you took a cruise in the morning, consider joining a photo-themed tour instead. Explore Cologne on foot and get advice from a photographer on composition and perspective while snapping shots of city landmarks. Then, skip the line with premium access tickets to the Chocolate Museum and taste a variety of hand-crafted chocolate. 

Night: German Beer and Scenic River Cruises

Explore Cologne after dark with an Old Town brewery tour. Taste a variety of German beers, and learn about local history during stops at several different traditional pubs. Travelers looking to experience Cologne’s nightlife may want to join other revelers and a local guide on a pub crawl that includes access to several trendy bars. Visitors looking for a more relaxed evening can check out a scenic dinner cruise on the Rhine River. Some cruises include a buffet dinner, complimentary drinks, and music from an onboard DJ. 

One of the world’s great rivers, the Rhine is a sightseeing dream destination: From UNESCO-listed landscapes and vibrant urban centers to picturesque wine regions and centuries-old towns, the river wends its way through some of Germany’s top scenery. Two days offers the perfect introduction to the region. Here’s where to go.

Day 1: Urban Adventures

**Morning:**Happily for time-pressed travelers, two of the Rhine’s major cities—Düsseldorf and Cologne—are located just a quick trip apart. On your first day in the region, set time aside to visit both urban hubs. Begin in Düsseldorf: A morning walking or Segway tour is the perfect way to tour its Old Town (Aldstadt), stroll its Rhine Promenade, and discover its history.

**Afternoon:**In the afternoon, transfer to Cologne, less than an hour’s trip south of Düsseldorf, whether you drive or take public transit. If it’s culture you fancy, visit the city’s soaring cathedral and other Aldstadt highlights. Alternatively, duck into the Cologne Chocolate Museum, which offers a sweet treat for visitors of all ages.

**Evening:**Given that this is a Rhine tour, make sure to get out on the water before day’s end. Evening sightseeing cruises offer a relaxing way to wind down your busy first day, as well as drink in sunset views of the city’s skyline. Book a dinner cruise to enjoy a multicourse meal as you float along.

Day 2: River Explorations

**Morning:**Trade the urban bustle for a relaxing day on the water, and enjoy a stress-free way to sightsee: On your second day in the region, grab breakfast and venture on a hop-on-hop-off-boat tour. Conveniently, numerous itineraries run south between Cologne and Linz am Rhein or Königswinter.

**Afternoon:**This tract of the Rhine is known for its castles, and traveling by boat makes discovering them simple. Disembark along the route to get closer to sights that interest you most. See the dramatic Drachenfels Castle, or explore the colorful, heritage architecture in Linz am Rhein.

**Evening:**On your way back to Cologne, hop off your vessel at Bonn. Known as the birthplace of Beethoven, the former West German capital is rich in heritage and history. Embark on an early evening, custom walking tour—and follow in the world-famous composer’s footsteps—before returning to Cologne.

Germany’s longest river, the Rhine flows the length of most of the country and wends its way past major cities, lush wine regions, numerous castles, and UNESCO World Heritage sites. If you only have one day to experience the Rhine, focus on the accessible section between Düsseldorf and Cologne. Here’s your perfect itinerary.

Morning: Düsseldorf Excursions

Begin your day’s Rhine-themed adventures in Düsseldorf. Known for its cutting-edge design and art scenes, the city is also celebrated for its riverside scenery and landmark-packed Old Town (Altstadt). Panoramic tours by boat make it possible to sightsee as you float down the Rhine, while walking tours will typically visit the Altstadt, Rhine Promenade, and landmarks such as Düsseldorf City Hall and St. Lambertus Church. If you’re pressed for time, book a Segway tour to zip around town in just an hour or two.

Afternoon: Cologne Adventures

Given that Cologne is located less than an hour’s drive or train journey south of Düsseldorf, make the most of your brief stay and visit two cities in one day. Famed for its colossal cathedral and its many museums, renowned as a popular destination for chocolate lovers and beer drinkers, cosmopolitan Cologne also boasts an impressive Altstadt of its own. Following your afternoon arrival, book a private walking tour to discover the sights that interest you most.

Evening: The Rhine by Night

Once the sun begins to set, make your way to the Rhine and hop aboard a sightseeing boat: Evening is the perfect time to set sail on a river cruise (and watch the glittering lights of the city’s skyline come on). For a seamless, two-in-one experience, a dinner cruise lets you enjoy a gourmet meal as well as a relaxed sightseeing foray. If you still have energy upon returning to shore, wind down the night with a Kölsch-themed beer tour. A refreshing ale-lager hybrid, Kölsch hails from Cologne and is one of Germany’s most beloved, traditional beer styles.

Two days in Düsseldorf gives you enough time to explore this modern city’s major landmarks, including the Old Town (Altstadt), as well as pursue your own interests, from shopping to learning more about the local art scene. Here are some suggestions for how to best spend your 48 hours in Düsseldorf.

Day 1: City Sightseeing

Morning: One of the best ways to get oriented in the city is to climb aboard the Düsseldorf hop-on hop-off bus for a tour of the city’s top attractions. If you’re up for something a little different, zip off on a guided Segway tour instead.

Afternoon: This afternoon, lace up your shoes for a guided exploration of the birthplace of altbier, a sweet dark beer favored in this part of Germany. Head to several of the city’s most popular microbreweries to sample some brews, and get insider tips from your guide on what to see, drink, and do for the rest of your trip.

Night: After a day of sightseeing and beer drinking, tame your appetite with a traditional German meal. Opt for a local specialty, such as sauerbraten, potato pancakes, Grünkohlessen (kale, sausage, and potatoes), or Himmel und Erde (“heaven and earth”: black pudding, apple sauce, and mashed potatoes). You’ll never look at meat and potatoes the same way again.

Day 2: Follow Your Interests

Morning: Now that you’ve had a sample of what the city has to offer, today’s your chance to explore in greater depth. Start with a morning cruise along the Rhine River. Bring your camera to capture the Düsseldorf waterfront in the morning light.

Afternoon: Take this afternoon as an opportunity to check out one of Düsseldorf’s museums or other attractions. Art lovers may opt to explore the post-WWII collection at the North Rhine–Westphalia Art Collection (Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-Westfalen), while families might want to visit the aquarium Sea Life Oberhausen. Alternatively, browse the high-end designer shops along Königsallee, the area’s most famous shopping street.

Night: Finish off your trip with a bang during a guided pub crawl through the Altstadt, known as the longest bar in the world. A local guide will take you to some of the best bars and historic beer taverns for an unforgettable night of fun and new friends.

Düsseldorf, one of Germany’s wealthiest and most modern cities, was all but rebuilt from the ground up after World War II. Today, it’s the elegant capital of North Rhine–Westphalia, known for its excellent nightlife and stellar art scene. If you’re only in town for a day, here’s how to make the most of your time in Düsseldorf.

Morning: City Sightseeing

Kick off your day in Düsseldorf with a zip around town by Segway. Follow your guide across the Rhine River to see the city’s bridges, harbor district, old town, and shopping areas, all while getting an introduction to the history and culture of the city. Alternatively, climb aboard the hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus to tour the city at your own pace. The open-top, double-decker bus stops at eight spots around town, with audio commentary in several languages (including English). Be sure to spend some time exploring the Old Town (Altstadt), St. Lambertus Church, and the Königsallee shopping district.

Afternoon: Rhine River Cruise

You’ve seen Düsseldorf by land, now it’s time to see it from the water. Spend the afternoon floating down the Rhine River on a relaxing sightseeing cruise. Bring your camera to capture images of the city’s waterfront, including architectural landmarks like the Rhine Tower. You can even combine the hop-on hop-off sightseeing bus and a river cruise into a single ticket to use at your leisure. Most cruises last about an hour, giving you some extra time in the afternoon to rest up for a night out on the town.

Night: Altstadt Barhopping

The Altstadt is sometimes referred to as the world’s longest bar, thanks to its numerous bars and historic beer taverns. Treat yourself to a taste of the city’s legendary nightlife during a guided pub crawl through this fun and atmospheric part of town. Walk from one bar to the next, enjoying a welcome shot at each venue. Be sure to try some altbier, Düsseldorf’s signature brew.

Cologne’s Carnival is Germany’s second-most famous celebration after Oktoberfest. Nearly a million people attend the annual festivities, which kick off in November and ramp up around Lent in February. Here are a few ways to enjoy the celebration.

• Pedal through the city center on a small-group bike tour to see where the Carnival celebrations take place, including Kölner Dom (Cologne Cathedral).

• Attend one of the city’s costume balls, Fools’ Gatherings, or a parade rehearsal to get in the Carnival spirit.

• Participate in a pub crawl to see the best of Cologne’s nightlife.

• At 11:11am on the Thursday before Ash Wednesday, kick off Carnival Week with costume parades and street parties.

• Wrap up Carnival season at the official Carnival parade called the Rose Monday Parade (Rosenmontag), featuring marching bands, dancers, elaborately constructed floats, and thousands of costumed revelers shouting “Kölle Alaaf!”

• Check out the year-round Cologne Carnival Museum for elaborate Carnival costumes and floats, and to learn more about the origins the Carnival (Fastnacht) origins around Easter and Lent.

Extensively restored and rebuilt in the aftermath of World War II, Dusseldorf’s skyline comprises ultramodern and historic architectural styles. Here are a few of the top landmarks in Dusseldorf—and Germany—to look out for during your city tour.

Rheinturm

This iconic TV and communications tower stands 787 feet (240 meters) high, dominating the Dusseldorf skyline as the city’s tallest building. Enjoy sweeping views from the observation deck, or dine in one of the lofty cafés, bars, or revolving restaurant.

City Hall (Dusseldorf Rathaus)

Dating back to the 16th century, Dusseldorf’s City Hall (Rathaus) is one of the North Rhine-Westphalia’s oldest buildings. Once a meeting place for the duchies of Julich-Berg, today City Hall—whose architecture represents three distinct periods—is the seat of the city council.

St. Lambertus Church

Thirteenth-century St. Lambertus Church was once the site of a Roman court chapel. Today it is one of four Roman Catholic churches in the Old Town (Altstadt) district of Dusseldorf. With a history inextricably linked to that of the city itself, St. Lambertus Church is a top Altstadt attraction.

The K20 Grabbeplatz

With a distinctive façade of black Bornholm granite, the K20 Grabbeplatz opened in 1986 and now houses part of the Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-Westfalen regional museum’s art collection. It is considered by many to be among the finest 20th-century galleries in Europe, thanks in part to its major works by Matisse, Picasso, Warhol, and other greats. 

Media Harbor (MedienHafen)

Designed by futurist architect Frank Gehry, Media Harbor grew following the decay of Dusseldorf’s historic dockyards. Today the site is dominated by design, fashion, and media companies, while the city’s local radio station, Antenne Dusseldorf, also broadcasts from the area.

King’s Alley (Konigsallee)

Famous for its landscaped canal, luxury retail outlets, and contemporary fashion showrooms, Konigsallee ranks among Germany’s busiest and most stylish shopping districts.