The Romantic Rhine: Between castles and legends
This is the star itinerary. Travelling northwards up the river, you’ll pass through the Upper Middle Rhine Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- The Lorelei Rock: Get your camera ready for this legendary spot where the cliff overlooks the river.
- Rüdesheim and Koblenz: Stop-offs where cobbled streets and Riesling tastings set the pace for your days.
- Why do we love it? For that feeling of being in a fairytale setting, amongst steep vineyards and medieval fortresses.
Heading south: Towards Switzerland and the mountain peaks
Less well-known but just as spectacular, the route to Basel offers a different perspective. The cruise leaves the plains of Alsace behind and heads towards the mountains.
Some cruise companies even offer extensions to the famous Glacier Express train. Just imagine: you leave your cosy cabin in the morning only to find yourself in the heart of the Swiss Alps by the afternoon. It’s the ultimate multimodal journey, combining the gentle flow of the river with the grandeur of the mountain peaks.
Themed cruises: Christmas and Gastronomy
Whilst Strasbourg is the ‘Christmas Capital’, its end-of-year cruises are real gems. Cruising down the Rhine in December means seeing the riverbanks light up and enjoying the Christmas markets in Colmar, Strasbourg and Fribourg without ever having to repack your suitcase.
In spring, it’s all about gastronomy. The “Wine Route” cruises let you discover local grape varieties (Gewurztraminer, Pinot Gris) directly at the producers’ estates during stopovers, whilst enjoying the comfort of an all-inclusive experience on board.
Practical tips for a smooth start to your trip
The Port of Strasbourg (Quai des Belges or Rue du Havre) is very easy to get to. Here are a few insider tips:
- Luggage: Opt for soft-sided bags. The ship’s cabins are well-designed but space is limited.
- Transfer: From Strasbourg-Entzheim Airport, the journey to the port takes less than 25 minutes by taxi or via the train shuttle to Strasbourg Central Station, followed by tram line D to Port du Rhin station.
- Plan ahead: For summer 2026 cruises, book now to secure the best rates and cabins with balconies.
Why choose Chalair to travel to Strasbourg?
Travelling across France by car or train can be a long and tiring journey before you even set off on your cruise. By choosing Chalair Aviation’s direct flights, you’ll save precious time. Our summer Brive–Strasbourg route is designed to connect travellers from the south-west to eastern France in under 2 hours, in the comfort of our ATR 72s.
Image created with Grok