2 minute read
Rhine River
Starting life in the Swiss Alps, the Rhine is western Europe’s second-largest river, flowing through Austria, France and Germany, before reaching the Netherlands and ending its journey in the North Sea. Nicknamed the ‘romantic Rhine’, miles of lush green terraces bloom with working vineyards producing delicious varietals, while fortresses take pride of place atop rocky outcrops, symbolic of their once vital role in protecting their land. Travel through ‘the heart of Europe’, abundant with UNESCO World Heritage-listed sites, exploring the beautiful communities and witnessing some its most historic locations and landmarks. Embark on a canal cruise through Amsterdam, enjoy a guided hike through the Black Forest region, complete with gateau-tasting and hear tall tales of mythical sirens luring unwitting sailors on a journey through the Rhine Gorge.
Rotterdam
Forged by its proximity to the North Sea, Rotterdam has a rich seafaring heritage and is proud to have the largest port in Europe. Reconstructed following the air raids of WWII, there are few remaining historic buildings in the centre, which has since flourished into a contemporary metropolis. Its patchwork of different architectural styles is rather unique for a Dutch city and sees incredible residential spaces and commercial masterpieces co-exist with an occasional, comforting reminder of the past.
Amsterdam
Amsterdam
Regarded the world over for its inclusive free spirit, Amsterdam continues to attract visitors with its quaint cobbled streets and dramatic architectural beauty. Regularly shortlisted among the most stunning cities in Europe, the charming Dutch capital may be small, but it certainly packs a lot of personality. Characterised by countless canals and even more bicycles, this culture-rich city is home to an eclectic museum district that attracts fans of anything from history and art, to science and culture.
Rotterdam
Koblenz
Once a Roman stronghold desired for its strategic value, Koblenz is now a city with a unique blend of historic and contemporary architecture. Hosting part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge, fairy-tale-like castles provide an amazing backdrop which will highlight the extraordinary beauty of an area that left the philosophers and artists of the German Romanticism movement entranced.
Marksburg Castle, Rhine River
Cologne
Cologne
Cologne is one of the oldest cities in Germany and bursting with ancient architecture. One of the key inland ports of Europe, it is the historic, cultural, and economic capital of the Rhineland. Home to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cologne Cathedral, the largest Gothic church in northern Europe, whose twin filigree towers dominate the skyline, the city is alive with museums dedicated to everything from art to chocolate and sport. Spend the day weaving in and out of exhibitions, discovering the city’s Roman ruins and medieval churches, before exploring its cool neighbourhoods and dynamic social scene.