Zurich, Switzerland Cruise from Basel to Cologne — 8 Days

7 nights · Zurich, Switzerland · River cruise · Departs Basel (Switzerland) · Visiting Kehl-Strasbourg, Baden-Baden, Heidelberg, Rudesheim am Rhein, Cologne · Aboard Riviera Travel on the MS Grace

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Waterways

This river cruise sails the Rhine, departing Basel.

Cruise lineRiviera Travel
ShipMS Grace
Duration7 nights
Port calls6
Departures2 sailings
From fare$3,920 per person
Year built2016
Guests142
Cabins67
Crew39
Length135 m
Beam12 m
Cruising speed12.0 kn
  1. Days 1–2

    Basel, Switzerland

    Basel sits where Switzerland meets France and Germany, with the Rhine running through its centre. A short walk from the river leads to the red-sandstone Rathaus and Münster, whose terraces open across the rooftops. The city rewards unhurried exploring, from medieval lanes in the Old Town to galleries and renowned art collections. Cross the river by ferry, or use Basel’s efficient trams to reach museums, cafés and the lively Marktplatz.

  2. Day 3

    Kehl-Strasbourg, Germany

    Strasbourg rewards visitors with a rare blend of French elegance and German character. Its historic center, the Grande Île, is a UNESCO World Heritage site, threaded with canals and half-timbered houses. At its heart, Strasbourg Cathedral rises above the old streets, its pink sandstone façade a masterpiece of Gothic architecture. Take time for a table of Alsatian cooking, where French technique meets hearty regional tradition. Then follow the riverfront lanes and discover a city shaped by centuries on Europe’s border.

  3. Day 4

    Baden-Baden, Germany

    At the edge of the Black Forest, Baden-Baden has drawn visitors to its thermal waters since Roman times. Its spa architecture and leafy promenades recall the grand European resort era. The Kurhaus and its celebrated casino anchor the town centre. Nearby, Lichtentaler Allee follows the Oos River past gardens and historic villas. Baden-Baden is one of UNESCO’s Great Spa Towns of Europe. Thermal baths, cafés and Black Forest trails are all close at hand.

  4. Day 5

    Heidelberg, Germany

    Few German cities make history feel as immediate as Heidelberg. Set beside the Neckar, its old town gathers around the market square and the Church of the Holy Spirit. Cross the Old Bridge for views of the red sandstone castle, rising above the rooftops. Founded in 1386, Heidelberg University gives the city an enduring scholarly spirit. Walk the Philosopher’s Way for a wider view, then linger over the cafés and lanes below.

  5. Day 6

    Rudesheim am Rhein, Germany

    Rüdesheim is a rewarding first stop on the Rhine, with vineyards climbing steep slopes above the water. It stands at the southern gateway to the UNESCO-listed Upper Middle Rhine Valley, famed for castles and dramatic river scenery. Explore the old lanes and Drosselgasse, then take the cable car through the vines to the Niederwald Monument. From its hilltop setting, the Rhine spreads below in a view worth lingering over.

  6. Days 7–8

    Cologne, Germany

    Cologne announces itself from the Rhine with the soaring twin spires of its Gothic cathedral. Step ashore to explore a compact old town, Roman remains, and museums holding major works of art. The cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, anchors the city centre. Enjoy Kölsch in a traditional brewery, then cross the river for a view of the skyline.

MS Grace Cruises

Published September 15, 2026
Last updated October 3, 2026
Author: J. Richard


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