Cruise Advice
Duration
7 Nights
Journey Type
Sailing from Germany
Ports
6 Ports
2-3 December
Setting sail from Cologne
Cologne is a wonderfully warm and welcoming city, its skyline dominated by one of the most beautiful Gothic cathedrals in Europe. It's also been here a very long time; although much of the city suffered heavy damage during the Second World War, you can still see remnants of the old Roman walls. You will likely spend most of your time in the attractive Altstadt (Old Town), home to beer halls aplenty and some fascinating museums.
Don't miss
Don’t even think of missing the cathedral, and pay the extra for the treasury. It is pretty special.
4 December
Germany: Koblenz
Koblenz was founded by the Romans, who valued the city’s strategically important location where the Rhine and Moselle rivers meet. Rebuilt from the rubble of the Second World War, modern Koblenz has a pleasant and relaxed atmosphere, and serves as a gateway to the Romantic Rhine.
5 December
Germany: Mainz
The Rhine and Main rivers meet at Mainz, a friendly university town with a charming cobbled old town and an impressive cathedral. The city was also the home of the first ever printing press, a heritage that you can explore at the fascinating Gutenberg Museum.
6 December
Germany: Mannheim
Situated near the confluence of the Rhine and Neckar rivers, Mannheim is an important industrial centre with a lively cultural scene. It’s also conveniently located for exploring the pretty town of Heidelberg and the wine growing region around Nierstein.
7 December
France: Strasbourg
Strasbourg is the capital of France’s Alsace region, right next to the border with Germany, and there is a tangible Germanic influence that sets the city a little apart from the rest of France. Highlights include the beautiful Gothic cathedral, the old town’s fairytale half-timbered houses, and the pictureque canals of the Petite France district.
8-9 December
Arriving in Basel
Basel lies where Switzerland, France and Germany meet, a sophisticated and multicultural city with a picturesque setting astride the river Rhine. The medieval Old Town is exceptionally well preserved, best appreciated from the summit of the hilltop cathedral, which offers incredible views across the city. Basel boasts a wealth of museums and galleries, and plays host to events including the renowned Art Basel contemporary art fair, held during the summer, and Fasnacht, Switzerland's most famous winter carnival.
Our tip
The food here is great, with so many different influences. Try salmon ‘nach Basler Art’ (in a white wine marinade with fried onions), and wash it down with the local Riesling.
Your home from home
Uniquely designed and decorated, with an exceptional attention to detail, the River Duchess has been crafted to reflect the specific area in which she operates.
What we love
Uniworld's ships really do stand out from the crowd, unmatched in their opulent style and individual features. Every detail of the ship has been carefully considered to create an environment which enhances your itinerary, providing supreme levels of comfort and reflecting the region in which you're travelling.
| Capacity | 130 Guests |
|---|---|
| Crew | 42 Staff |
| Style | Relaxed and informal during the day, giving way to an elegant evening atmosphere. |
| Inclusions |
|
Tailor-make your trip
Ways to make it better
Where to stay in Basel
The Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois (three kings) is one of Europe’s oldest city hotels.
Our favourite hotel in Cologne
The Hotel im Wasserturm – yes, your German is correct, it really is a former water tower.
