The great Rhine convertible tour
The Rhine is one of the most spectacular river landscapes in Europe and is perfect for a convertible tour. From its alpine source in Switzerland to the North Sea in the Netherlands, the river offers a unique variety: rushing waterfalls, romantic castles, picturesque vineyards, historic towns, and modern metropolises. On this convertible journey, drivers will discover around 20 cities and towns along the Rhine over approximately 1,300 kilometers – a convertible route full of culture, nature, and driving pleasure.
Overview – six stages
The convertible route begins in Chur, leads via the Rhine Falls near Schaffhausen to Basel and Strasbourg, continues through Speyer, Worms, Mainz, Wiesbaden, and Rüdesheim to Bingen and Koblenz, and then further through Bonn, Cologne, Düsseldorf, Duisburg, Xanten, concluding finally in the Netherlands at Arnhem and Rotterdam. Each stage is designed as a day trip, covering between 180 and 230 kilometers and allowing ample time to explore sights along the way.
First Stage: Chur – Rhine Falls – Basel (~210 km)
The journey begins in Chur, the oldest city in Switzerland. Driving the winding alpine roads in a convertible is an experience filled with stunning panoramas, serpentine turns, and crisp mountain air. Near the source of the Rhine at the Tomasee, one can experience the beginning of one of Europe's most important rivers up close.
A first highlight of the convertible route is the Rhine Falls near Schaffhausen. Europe's largest waterfall cascades down with impressive force, while the spray envelops the surrounding landscape in fine mist. Spectacular photos can be taken near the viewing platforms before continuing on to Basel, a city where culture, old town alleys, and museums await convertible drivers.
Second Stage: Basel – Strasbourg – Speyer (~220 km)
From Basel, the convertible journey takes you over the Upper Rhine to Strasbourg. The cathedral and the half-timbered houses in the "La Petite France" district invite for an extended stroll, while the open streets offer pure driving pleasure for convertible fans.
Crossing the Rhine, you reach Speyer, where the Imperial Cathedral majestically overlooks the city. This convertible stretch combines scenic tranquility with cultural highlights. Drivers who like to stop by small cafés or historic squares will find numerous opportunities to pause and enjoy the surroundings.
Third Stage: Speyer – Worms – Mainz – Wiesbaden (~200 km)
The route continues to Worms, one of Germany's oldest cities, which impresses with its Nibelungen Saga and cathedral history. Then you reach Mainz with its Rhine promenade, the imposing cathedral, and charming alleys.
From Mainz, it's just a short jump to Wiesbaden, whose spa houses, thermal springs, and elegant city center mark the destination of the stage. This convertible route features a mix of open country roads, river passages, and gentle vineyards – perfect conditions for a road trip that combines nature, culture, and driving pleasure.
Fourth Stage: Rüdesheim – Bingen – Koblenz (~180 km)
The next stage through the Rhine Valley offers vineyards, castles, and river loops. Rüdesheim, with its famous Drosselgasse, invites you to take a stroll, while Bingen, with its romantic old town, serves as an ideal stopover.
In Koblenz, the Rhine and Moselle meet: The Deutsches Eck and Ehrenbreitstein Fortress shape the city and offer magnificent views. Near these sights, there are plenty of opportunities for breaks or short walks, making the convertible road trip varied and enjoyable.
Fifth Stage: Bonn – Cologne – Düsseldorf – Duisburg (~220 km)
From Koblenz, the convertible journey leads to Bonn, which offers cultural highlights with the Beethoven House and Hofgarten. Next is Cologne, where the cathedral and the Rhine promenade define the old town. Convertible drivers can enjoy the open drive along the river here before visiting Düsseldorf with its Königsallee and modern riverside.
Duisburg, with the largest inland port in Europe, marks the transition to the Ruhr area. This stage shows how versatile a convertible trip along the Rhine can be: urban centers, river landscapes, and historical buildings alternate within just a few kilometers.
Sixth Stage: Xanten – Arnhem – Rotterdam (~230 km)
The final stage begins in Xanten, famous for its archaeological park that brings Roman history to life. After that, the convertible route enters the Netherlands: via Arnhem, you reach Rotterdam, where modern architecture and the port mark the end of the journey.
Along the way, open roads along the river offer great viewpoints, and cozy stops can be planned nearby. Those who drive the entire route experience the Rhine in all its breadth – from romantic landscapes and castles to urban harbor flair.
Tips for the Rhine Convertible Tour
Plan the route in six stages to experience cities, castles, and viewpoints at a relaxed pace. Along the way, there are many opportunities to take breaks near small wine villages or river promenades. Sunscreen, water, and a light jacket should be packed, as it can get windy on open river stretches. This convertible route combines nature, culture, and driving pleasure – similar to a convertible tour in Switzerland, just with the long stretch of the Rhine as a backdrop.
Conclusion – the great Rhine Convertible Tour
From Chur over the Rhine Falls at Schaffhausen to Rotterdam: This convertible tour combines natural wonders, historic towns, castles, vineyards, and modern metropolises. Being on the road in a convertible means experiencing landscapes, freedom, and open roads in an intense way. Whether as individual daily stages or as a complete convertible trip – this route is one of the most beautiful ways to explore Europe on four wheels.