Sailing the Rhine with Tauck: A Journey Through Europe’s Heart
I recently had the incredible opportunity to join a group of fellow travel agents on a 5* Tauck river cruise, sailing down the Rhine River from Amsterdam to Basel aboard the elegant Inspire. From start to finish, it was a seamless blend of relaxation, exploration, and unforgettable moments.
Day 1 – Arrival in Amsterdam
We arrived in Amsterdam Schiphol airport where we were whisked away by private transfer to the Tauck river cruise ship Inspire. We settled into our beautiful cabins before meeting for pre-dinner drinks in the bar and introducing ourselves.
Day 2 – Amsterdam & The Dutch Countryside
We kicked off our adventure cycling through the picturesque Dutch countryside. We caught the ferry across to Amsterdam North before enjoying a scenic three-hour ride through Zunderdorp and Ransdorp. Windmills, canals, and open green fields surrounded us at every turn. Others in our group opted for a canal cruise and a visit to the Rijksmuseum, soaking up Dutch art and history.
Day 3 – Cologne & Schloss Ehreshoven
After a relaxing morning sailing into Cologne, we enjoyed brunch onboard before heading out on a guided walking tour, which naturally ended with an ice-cold local beer in one of Cologne's oldest beer halls. That evening, Tauck treated us to something truly special: a private cocktail reception and dinner at Schloss Ehreshoven, a 14th-century castle surrounded by moats and gardens. It felt like stepping into a film set—which makes sense, as it often is one.
Day 4 – Koblenz
Next stop: Koblenz, where the Rhine and Moselle rivers meet. I joined a fun scavenger hunt through the Old Town, discovering hidden squares, medieval churches, and picturesque river views. Others explored the surrounding countryside on a cycling tour.
Day 5 – Heidelberg
We docked in Mannheim and took a short drive to Heidelberg, one of Germany’s most charming university towns. Our tour included Heidelberg Castle and the Altstadt, with its cobblestone lanes, boutique shops, and lively student cafés. Like Mark Twain, I couldn’t help but fall in love with this city.
Day 6 – Strasbourg
In Strasbourg, I joined a cycling tour through the UNESCO-listed Old Town, the European Union district, and some of the city’s sustainable neighborhoods, with tastings of Alsatian treats along the way. Others opted for a walking tour of Strasbourg. In the afternoon,there was the option of a visit to the spa town of Baden-Baden.
Day 7 – Alsatian Wine Route
Our final day offered two tempting options: visiting Lucerne and riding to the top of Mount Pilatus, or exploring the Alsatian Wine Route—one of France’s oldest and most scenic. I chose the latter, which included a visit to Château du Haut-Koenigsbourg and lunch in the Alsatian town of Riquewihr - known for its historic architecture and excellent wines. The day concluded with a relaxed and very enjoyable wine tasting.
Tauck is known for its exceptional service, attention to detail, and immersive travel experiences that go beyond the ordinary. Its fleet of river ships are beautifully designed to feel both luxurious and inviting, offering spacious cabins with floor-to-ceiling windows, elegant furnishings, and thoughtful touches that make you feel at home. The onboard experience includes fine dining with regional specialties, all-inclusive excursions, and a warm, attentive crew who genuinely love what they do. Every element—from the shore tours to the nightly entertainment—is crafted to reflect the local culture and ensure guests see each destination from a truly authentic perspective.
Every moment onboard Inspire reminded me why Tauck is a leader in luxury river cruising—effortless organization, warm hospitality, and authentic experiences at every stop. This journey truly brought Europe’s riverside magic to life.