Monday - Friday | 9am - 6:30pm

Hops & Heritage: Cruising through Centuries of Brewing Craftsmanship

Immerse yourself in the culture of Europe's most beautiful cities.

From £3,122 per person

Destination: Europe River
Cruiseline: Riverside Luxury Cruises
Ship: Riverside Debussy
Cabin:
Duration: 7 Nights
Dealcode: DCEC91K

Terms & Conditions

All fares are displayed in Great British Pound, and pricing is per person based on twin share occupancy unless stated otherwise. Although all due care is taken to keep information as up-to-date as possible, pricing and availability are subject to change without notice: due to varying timing schedules of supplier automated update processes; currency fluctuations; fuel surcharges or government tax & fee changes and may not be guaranteed until paid in full. Gratuities may be an additional onboard charge depending on particular cruise line selected. Please ask your cruise consultant for any clarification of Terms & Conditions.


Overview

Embarkation from Basel

Pricing is based on departure date 29th July 2026

Plan in advance and take advantage of latest offers with wide range of departures available.

Cruise Overview

This exciting Rhine River journey takes a fresh and fun look at one of Europe’s most popular beverages: beer! During this 8-day cruise, you’ll delve into the age-old histories and unique traditions of beer in Switzerland, France, Germany, and the Netherlands—as well as the future trends. Led by a seasoned beer sommelier, enjoy beer-focused talks, tastings, and pairings on board, as well as an exclusive beer-focused dining event. On shore, as part of your booked excursion program, visit local breweries, pubs, and establishments that highlight each port’s connection to beer over the centuries, including Amsterdam, which has been brewing its own form of “liquid bread” for 750 years! Itinerary Day 1 – Basel Arrival and embarkation. Welcome aboard! Day 2 – Kehl / Strasbourg Discover the beer traditions of Alsace amid charming half-timbered houses and tarte flambée. Day 3 – Speyer – Mannheim Explore historic brewhouses along the Rhine—where every glass tells a story. Day 4 – Rüdesheim – Koblenz Enjoy freshly tapped beer surrounded by the romantic landscapes of vineyards and beer heritage. Day 5 – Cologne Experience Cologne’s famous Kölsch culture—from brewery tours to sipping beer from traditional “Stangen” glasses. Day 6 – Arnhem Delight in Dutch brewing artistry and local specialties in a cozy and relaxed setting. Day 7 – Amsterdam Visit breweries, explore the city’s craft beer trends, and taste centuries-old traditions in the heart of the Dutch capital. Day 8 – Amsterdam Disembarkation and individual departure—or one last sip of Dutch beer history before heading home.


Itinerary highlights

Ship: Riverside Debussy

Cabin: Melody Suite

Sail Date: 29th July 2026

Duration: 07 Nights

Day-wise itinerary

Day 1 - Basel / Huningue

There's a point where Switzerland, Germany, and France meet—that point is in Basel. By the Middle Ages, Basel was a center of culture and commerce, and by the 15th century, the world's first printed book was published here. Today, Basel and its international suburbs are home to vibrant Carnival celebrations, a thriving art scene, pharmaceutical industry, fish farms, and caviar production. French Basel serves as the arrival and departure point for Riverside's Luxury Rhine River cruise.

Day 2 - Kehl

Kehl has a rich history that spans over several centuries. The city was founded in the 12th century, and it served as a strategic location for trade between France and Germany. Over the years, Kehl has been part of various territories, including the Duchy of Württemberg, the Margraviate of Baden, and the French Empire. During the Napoleonic Wars, Kehl was the site of several battles, and it was occupied by French troops for many years. In the 19th century, Kehl became an important railway hub, and it played a crucial role in the industrialization of the region. In the 20th century, Kehl was heavily damaged during World War II, and it took many years to rebuild the city. Today, Kehl is a vibrant city that combines its rich history with modern lifestyle.. The Kehl Canal, also known as the Grand Canal d'Alsace, is an important waterway that connects the Rhine River to the Rhone River. The canal was constructed in the mid-20th century to improve navigation and transport between the two rivers. The Kehl Canal is approximately 50 kilometers long, and it passes through several locks, tunnels, and aqueducts. The construction of the Kehl Canal was a significant engineering achievement.

Day 3 - Speyer

Speyer is located in southwestern Germany that boasts a rich history. At the heart of the city lies the Speyer Cathedral, a magnificent example of Romanesque architecture that stands as one of the largest structures of its kind in the world. Commissioned by Emperor Conrad II in the 11th century, the cathedral serves as a symbol of his power and authority. Visitors to the cathedral can explore its grand interior, which features intricate vaulted ceilings, ornate stained-glass windows, and a grand organ that dates back to the 18th century. In addition to the cathedral, Speyer is home to the Technik Museum Speyer, one of the most popular museums in Germany. The museum showcases an extensive collection of classic cars, airplanes, locomotives, and other technical marvels from different eras. Visitors can explore the different sections of the museum, which includes a space exhibition, a maritime hall, and an outdoor area with several large aircraft on display.

Day 3 - Mannheim

Mannheim is a modern city located in the southwestern part of Germany. It is known for its stunning architecture, rich cultural heritage, and scenic location along the Rhine River. Visitors can explore the city's many landmarks, such as the Mannheim Palace, the Luisenpark, and the Mannheimer Wasserturm. The city is also home to several museums and galleries, such as the Kunsthalle Mannheim, which features modern and contemporary art, and the Reiss-Engelhorn-Museen, which showcase the region's history and culture. And for those who love shopping, Mannheim is famous for its many boutiques and department stores.

Day 4 - Rüdesheim

Rüdesheim, wtih its historic buildings, winding streets and surrounding vineyards, is a popular destination. The towns history dates back to the Roman era, and over the centuries, it has been influenced by various cultures and traditions. One of the highlights of Rüdesheim is its wine culture. The town is home to some of the finest vineyards in Germany, and is particularly famous for its Riesling wine, which is made from grapes grown on the steep slopes of the nearby hills. A popular attraction is the Rüdesheim Cable Car, which offers breath-taking views. The cable car route is 1.4 kilometers long and takes visitors from the town center up to the Niederwald Monument, a 38-meter tall monument that commemorates the unification of Germany in 1871. Don’t miss a taste of the famous Rüdesheimer Kaffee, a specialty coffee drink that is made with Asbach Uralt, a type of German brandy, and topped with whipped cream.

Day 4 + Day 5 - Koblenz

Koblenz is a city steeped in history, with its origins dating back to Roman times when it was known as "Confluentes," a Latin term meaning "the confluence of two rivers." The city was strategically located at the meeting point of the Rhine and Moselle rivers, making it an important trading hub and military stronghold. Throughout its history, Koblenz has been the site of many battles and conflicts. During the Middle Ages, the city was heavily fortified, and many of the structures from that period, such as the city walls, towers, and gates, can still be seen today. The city is renowned for its stunning river scenery, which includes picturesque castles, vineyards, and historic buildings. The Rhine river, which is the longest river in Germany, offers a mesmerizing view of the city's skyline, while the Moselle river provides a quieter and more serene ambiance. The city has a wealth of historic architecture to explore. Visitors can marvel at the striking architecture of the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, the impressive Deutsches Eck monument, and the charming Old Town, which boasts beautiful half-timbered houses and narrow streets.

Day 5 - Cologne

Köln, also known as Cologne in English, is the fourth largest city in Germany with a population of over one million people. The history of Köln dates back over 2,000 years to the Roman Empire when it was known as Colonia Claudia Ara Agrippinensium. It was founded in the year 50 AD by the Roman general Agrippa, and was named in honor of Emperor Claudius. It quickly became an important center of trade and commerce due to its strategic location on the Rhine River. Throughout the Middle Ages, Köln continued to thrive as a major trading center and was a key player in the Hanseatic League. It was also a center of art and learning, with the famous theologian and philosopher Thomas Aquinas studying at the University of Köln in the 13th century. During the 16th and 17th centuries, Köln was hit hard by wars and plagues, but managed to recover and continue to grow. In the 19th century, it became a major industrial center and played a key role in the development of Germany's chemical industry. Unfortunately, Köln suffered extensive damage during World War II, with nearly 90% of the city center destroyed. However, much of the historic architecture and cultural heritage was rebuilt and restored in the post-war period, including the famous Köln Cathedral, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Day 6 - Arnhem

Arnhem is a historic city located in the eastern part of the Netherlands. It is known for its stunning architecture, rich cultural heritage, and scenic location along the Rhine River. Visitors can explore the city's many historic landmarks, such as the John Frost Bridge, the Eusebius Church, and the Museum Arnhem. The city is also home to several museums and galleries, such as the Netherlands Open Air Museum, which showcases the region's cultural history, and the Museum voor Moderne Kunst Arnhem, which features modern and contemporary art. And for those who enjoy outdoor activities, the surrounding countryside offers numerous hiking and biking trails that lead through the nearby forests and hills.

Day 7 + Day 8 - Amsterdam

Amsterdam is the capital city of the Netherlands and is known for its stunning canals, rich cultural heritage, and lively arts scene. Visitors can explore the city's many historic landmarks, such as the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Anne Frank House. The city is also home to numerous galleries and theaters, making it a hub for art and culture. And for those who enjoy outdoor activities, the surrounding countryside offers numerous biking and walking trails, as well as opportunities for water sports on the many lakes and canals. And let's not forget the famous nightlife and coffee shops that make Amsterdam a unique destination for many visitors.


 


Itinerary

Enquire Now!


Terms & Conditions

All fares are displayed in Great British Pound, and pricing is per person based on twin share occupancy unless stated otherwise. Although all due care is taken to keep information as up-to-date as possible, pricing and availability are subject to change without notice: due to varying timing schedules of supplier automated update processes; currency fluctuations; fuel surcharges or government tax & fee changes and may not be guaranteed until paid in full. Gratuities may be an additional onboard charge depending on particular cruise line selected. Please ask your cruise consultant for any clarification of Terms & Conditions.


You can send us your questions or comments by filling out the form below:


Our experienced experts will help you find your cruise.

Mon - Fri | 9am - 6:30pm


Arrivia Europe Ltd. ("Arrivia") trading as iCruise and Our Holiday Centre, a company incorporated in England with company number 03793955 and ABTA numbers Y1932 and L6366, whose registered office is at Belmont House, 2nd Floor - Unit 3, 148 Belmont Road, Uxbridge, England, UB8 1QS. Arrivia Europe Ltd ABTA registration means you have the benefit of ABTA's assistance and Code of Conduct.
STAY SAFE AND HEALTHY ABROAD The Foreign & Commonwealth Office and National Travel Health Network and Centre have up-to-date advice on staying safe and healthy abroad. For the latest travel advice including security and local laws, plus passport and visa information, please visit https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice The advice can change so check regularly for updates. Arrivia, Inc., Arrivia Europe Ltd., iCruise, Our Holiday Centre and related marks are registered trademarks and/or service marks in the United States and internationally. All rights reserved.
© Copyright 2025 Arrivia Europe Ltd., All Rights Reserved.