Family Viking River Cruise on the Rhine: Germany Travel with Parents at 80
Curated By
Krista Behrend Digilio
Curator’s statement
The Rhine River holds a special place in my heart because it was the backdrop of a once-in-a-lifetime journey I shared with my siblings and my 80-year-old parents. Sailing past storybook castles, vineyards, and beautiful historic towns was incredible—and the food on the ship made every day feel like a celebration. Experiencing all of this together made the trip even more meaningful. It gave us a rare chance to slow down, savor the moment, and create lasting memories across generations, making the Rhine truly unforgettable.
The Fora Difference
Book with Krista to access exclusive perks and experiences on your trip.
Killer perks
Free upgrades, spa credits and more—we got you
Personalized recs
Customized travel planning for your style
Insider knowledge
Expert advice from people who’ve actually been there
Where to stay
Unlock perks by contacting Krista to book your trip.
Castles along the Rhine
The Rhine River is one of Europe’s most enchanting waterways, and a Viking River Cruise offers the perfect way to experience it at a relaxed, immersive pace. Sailing past Germany’s storybook castles and lush vineyards was breathtaking, and tasting the region’s finest wines on board quickly became one of my favorite highlights. There were plenty of opportunities to get off the ship, with well-planned excursions and engaging local experiences that made each day feel special.
Family wine tasting excursion
Just a funny picture of me holding the Viking tour sign!
Exploring Cologne by bike was an incredible way to see the city up close, from its magnificent cathedral to its vibrant neighborhoods. My siblings and I also joined a Kölsch beer tasting and dinner excursion, which was a fun, authentic way to interact with locals and soak in the city’s culture. Speyer didn’t disappoint either—the streets were alive with entertainment, rich history, and amazing culinary delights that made wandering the town an absolute pleasure.
Viking ship at Cologne Port, Germany
Speyer, Germany
Onboard the ship, the service was top-notch, and the accommodations were both comfortable and inviting. Each day offered a balance of leisurely sailing, delicious meals, and enriching excursions, making it an ideal choice for multigenerational families, couples, and anyone who wants a culturally rich European trip without the stress of constant packing or long travel days. With beautiful scenery, exceptional food and wine, and meaningful shared experiences, a Rhine River cruise is a truly unforgettable journey that I highly recommend from personal experience.
Exploring an old castle with a view
Need to know
Travel tip: Extend your Germany adventure
For clients looking to get even more out of a European trip, I highly recommend extending your itinerary either before or after a Rhine River cruise. A stay in Meersburg on the Bodensee is a must—this charming small town boasts rich history and beautiful lakeside views, and it's just across from Switzerland, making it perfect for a relaxed, immersive experience.
Another great option is renting a car and exploring Munich. There’s always a German festival happening, the famous Glockenspiel is worth seeing, and the city offers outstanding food, shopping, and cultural experiences. Both Meersburg and Munich are excellent ways to deepen your trip, see more of Germany, and create unforgettable memories.
For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our cruises page.
Travel Advisor
Krista Behrend Digilio
Get in touch with Krista
Did you like this guide? Reach out to customize and book your own experience. Or, just to chat about travel in general.
You can expect a response from Krista within 1–2 business days. You’ll also be subscribed to our traveler newsletter (you can unsubscribe at any time).