If you're searching for breaks that really allow you to unwind, why not choose river cruise holidays? This type of trip is ideal if you're keen to see a range of sights without needing to fuss over complicated connections and travel plans. Perhaps one of the most exciting places to visit on this kind of break is the impressive Rhine Gorge.

Running from Switzerland through France, Germany and Holland, the river Rhine is a wonderful waterway to explore by boat - and you'll find that with Rhine river cruises you can see some of the most magical sights in Germany and France.

Of course, one of the best things about escorted holidays by boat is that you can do as much or as little as you please. So, while you are able to visit a range of exciting locations, from well-known cities to small villages, you can also choose to simply stay on board and relax whenever you please.
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And since your excursions and travel are arranged for you, you need not concern yourself with organising the fiddly details of your trip. This is perfect for those who are keen to completely let go of their stresses and strains during their break.

Start off your journey by boarding the Eurostar in London before changing trains at Brussels, which will take you to Dusseldorf. Once you've arrived, you can board the cruise ship and start your adventure.

Your first destination will be the city of Koblenz, which is home to its fascinating Old Town quarter. You'll have the option of a tour at this point, which could be a great choice for those interested in learning more about the location.

Once you've finished exploring, you can return to the boat to start your journey through the spectacular Rhine Gorge. You'll see the banks start to rise steeply around you - these can reach some 400 ft in places.

However, the height alone is not what makes the Rhine Gorge such a special location. This Unesco World Heritage site is littered with treasures, from gorgeous castles perched on top of steep hills to sprawling vineyards and quaint villages. Indeed, the sheer number of fortifications you can expect to see in this region is something to be marvelled at, with approximately 40 situated in the area.

Continuing your journey, you will arrive at Rudesheim, where you will have the chance to visit Siegfreid's Music Box Museum or simply stroll through the cobbled streets of the town soaking up the local atmosphere.

A little further along the river you will come to Speyer, which is a must to disembark at if you are a fan of architecture. Situated here is one of Germany's most important cathedrals, designed in the Romanesque style. You'll find you can easily lose hours staring at this impressive structure!

Once you have climbed back aboard, you can continue your journey to Kehl, which is perched opposite Strasbourg. A well-known city with both German and French influences, Strasbourg is a fascinating place to explore and city tours are available for those interested in seeing the most important sights. You'll also discover that the influences each country has had on the city can still be seen today.

Before mooring overnight in Bingen, you could stop off at Mainz, which used to be the home of a pioneer of printing, Gutenberg.

Leaving Bingen, the boat will start to cruise back along the Rhine Gorge and you'll have the opportunity to visit Boppard, which is known for its wine production. And you never know, you could even get to taste some of the local produce!

A little further along the river you can visit Cologne. Those who were bowled over by the cathedral at Speyer will have a chance to see another fantastic religious building here, while also being able to explore the charming Old Town.

Meanwhile, don't forget to try some Kolsch - a local specialty beer - before boarding the boat once more.

After your Cologne visit, the boat will cruise back to Dusseldorf, where your exciting tour will end. Boarding the train for Brussels, you can then change for the Eurostar and relax all the way to London.