Thurgau Travel: A cruise among vineyards & fortifications
Sailing along the Rhine and Moselle rivers is much more than just a trip—it’s a deep dive into the historic and scenic heart of Central Europe.
Thurgau Travel offers a refined ten-day itinerary that takes travelers from the Swiss shores of Basel to the picturesque town of Cochem, passing through medieval towns, enchanting wine landscapes, UNESCO World Heritage sites, and imposing fortresses. This carefully crafted experience combines the comfort of a river cruise with an authentic exploration of the region.
MS Edelweiss
The journey begins in the vibrant city of Basel, where guests are individually welcomed aboard the ship. At 4:00 PM, the cruise sets sail, marking the start of an emotional and memorable adventure. The first evening is dedicated to settling into cabins, exploring the ship, and enjoying a pleasant welcome dinner. The second day is fully devoted to relaxation onboard. As the river flows gently past vineyards and castles, passengers can savor panoramic views, take advantage of onboard amenities, and begin to soak in the serene atmosphere that will characterize the entire trip.
In the morning, the ship docks at Cochem, dominated by the striking Reichsburg Castle. After a guided tour of this remarkable example of neo-Gothic architecture, rebuilt in the 19th century, the tour continues through the charming streets of the wine town. In the afternoon, during lunch, the cruise proceeds to Traben-Trarbach, where a peaceful evening stroll reveals the allure of this riverside locality.
Luxemburg Panoramic view- copyright pcalapre
Reichsburg, Cochem – copyright shutterstock
After a night of sailing, the ship arrives at Grevenmacher, the starting point for an excursion to Luxembourg. The capital, the financial and political heart of the European Union, surprises visitors with its cosmopolitan character. A panoramic bus tour precedes a guided walking tour of the UNESCO-listed old town. Free time is then available to explore the center or visit the LUGA urban garden exhibition (available on departures from August 1 to September 23).
From Merzig, guests embark on an excursion to the Saarschleife, a spectacular bend in the Saar River visible from a futuristic treetop walkway. The visit culminates at a 42-meter-high panoramic tower offering breathtaking views. After lunch, the ship docks at Mettlach to explore the world of ceramics at Villeroy & Boch—a unique blend of art, design, and company history. In the evening, the cruise reaches Trier, the cradle of Roman history in Germany. Trier is an open-air museum. Founded by the Romans in 17 BC, it still preserves many ancient relics, including the imposing Porta Nigra, which features prominently in today’s excursion. The guided tour combines a bus overview with a walking tour of the city center, offering glimpses of Roman baths, amphitheaters, and Baroque architecture. The day begins with panoramic views of Brauneberg: the vistas over the Moselle are spectacular, especially from the terrace of a selected winery where a tasting of local wines is planned. Guests also visit an ancient Roman winepress, a testament to the region’s long-standing wine culture. Alternatively, a guided tour of Bernkastel’s historic center, rich in half-timbered houses and medieval atmosphere, is available.
Kurhaus, Baden-Baden Copyright Jurgen Wackenhut
Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, Koblenz- copyright Comofoto
Porta Nigra, Trier
In Koblenz, located at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle, the tour starts in the old town and heads to the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, overlooking the river from a hilltop. The cable car ride offers unrivaled views, and after a brief guided introduction, visitors are free to explore the fortress and capture unforgettable photos. From the port of Plittersdorf, a comfortable bus transfer takes guests to Baden-Baden, an elegant spa town renowned since Roman times. Famous for its casino and healing waters, it is now also an internationally recognized center for art and culture. After a panoramic tour and some free time to stroll among gardens and historic cafés, guests return to the ship in Kehl. After breakfast onboard, the cruise concludes with disembarkation in Basel. Passengers bid farewell to the crew and begin their journey home, carrying memories of an extraordinary experience amid calm waters, breathtaking scenery, and culturally rich cities.
This Thurgau Travel itinerary is much more than a river vacation: it is an immersive journey through millennia of history, pristine natural landscapes, and local food and wine culture. The variety of excursions, the comfort of the cruise, and the meticulous organization make it ideal for both relaxation seekers and adventure lovers.
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