2026 Malroy Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in August)

Metz is situated in the Moselle department of the Grand Est region in northeastern France, right at the confluence of the Moselle and Seille rivers. As the historical and cultural center of the Lorraine region, it is home to approximately 120,000 residents. Strategically positioned as a vital transit hub connecting France, Germany, and Luxembourg, Metz boasts a rich history spanning over two millennia, characterized by a unique blend of French and German cultures. The city's most renowned landmark is the Metz Cathedral (Cathédrale Saint-Étienne de Metz). Constructed in the 13th century, this majestic Gothic masterpiece is often referred to as the "Lantern of God" due to its expansive medieval stained glass windows. The cathedral also features stained glass masterpieces crafted by modern art icon Marc Chagall, beautifully illustrating the seamless fusion of religious and contemporary art. Throughout the city, visitors can explore numerous well-preserved historical treasures, including the Porte des Allemands (a medieval fortified gate), the Roman-era Basilique Saint-Pierre-aux-Nonnains, and the Temple Neuf, which was erected during the period of German annexation.

Thionville is located in the Moselle department of northeastern France, nestled along the banks of the Moselle River, about 30 kilometers from Luxembourg. It serves as a major city in the border region connecting France, Germany, and Luxembourg. Situated at a key European crossroads, Thionville boasts a long and complex history. It has been successively influenced by the Frankish Kingdom, Luxembourg, the House of Habsburg, as well as France and Germany, resulting in a unique, multicultural heritage. The city's most iconic historical landmark is the Flea Tower (Tour aux Puces), a medieval keep that now houses a museum showcasing the area's development from prehistoric times to the modern era. The Church of Saint-Maximin (Église Saint-Maximin) and the charming streets of the Old Town also preserve a rich historical ambiance. Nearby, the Fort de Guentrange stands as a testament to the military fortifications built during German rule in the late 19th century. Once a prominent steel-producing hub in France's Lorraine region, Thionville has undergone an industrial transformation and is now steadily evolving into a dynamic, modern city bridging France and Luxembourg.

Kobern-Gondorf is located in the Mayen-Koblenz district of Rhineland-Palatinate, Germany. Nestled in the picturesque Lower Moselle Valley, about 17 kilometers from Koblenz and 33 kilometers from Cochem, this serene riverside town has a population of around 3,000 and is brimming with historical charm. Human activity in the area dates back to the Celtic era. During the Roman Empire, the Moselle River served as a vital transport and trade route, which led to the early development of local viticulture. By the Middle Ages, the town had grown into a key stronghold for the nobility. Notably, the Chapel of St. Matthias is renowned for its immaculately preserved Romanesque architecture, making it a prominent example of Germany's medieval religious buildings. Today, the town still features numerous half-timbered houses, ancient castle ruins, and traditional streets. Strolling through Kobern-Gondorf feels just like walking through an open-air history museum.

At the start of 2026, Fan Zhendong even made a special trip to Cologne Cathedral, where the Gothic spires reflect the Rhine River's light. You can also enjoy coffee from the balcony of a Viking longship, watching castles drift by! This 20-day Viking River Cruise itinerary connects the Netherlands, Germany, France, Switzerland, Austria, Hungary… No need to change hotels, no need to drag suitcases, no need to get up early to catch a train! Enjoy Chinese food on board and a Chinese-speaking guide on shore – the pace is so comfortable it doesn't feel like a typical trip, leaving you fully energized and ready to go! D1 - D3 | Departure and Arrival in Amsterdam, Boarding and You're Home! · Arrive in the Dutch capital, where a Viking "little red man" will meet you at the airport and take you directly to the pier for boarding. · Room key, daily itinerary, Chinese TV, standard electrical outlets, and kettle are all provided. · Buffet dinner on board; we recommend the beef noodles at the freshly cooked noodle station. After dinner, head to the rooftop deck for the canal night view. Days 4-6 | Kinderdijk, Netherlands + Cologne, Germany · Kinderdijk Windmills: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with 19 windmills lined up in a row. Viking will arrange a cycling or hiking tour. · Cologne Cathedral: A popular spot for photos, as seen on the TV show "Fan Zhendong"! The Gothic twin towers reach 157 meters. Hike up the towers or take the internal elevator to the top for panoramic views of the Rhine River. · Evening onboard special: German pork knuckle with beer – no need to change restaurants. Days 7-9 | Koblenz, Germany + Rüdesheim · Deutsche Corner: The confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers, featuring a statue of Wilhelm I. · Rüdesheim: A Riesling wine town. Take a ride on the miniature train through the alleyway for birds and enjoy a glass of iced white wine. · Night cruise past the Rhine Valley castles; the bow deck offers the best viewpoint. Days 10-12 | Strasbourg, France + Black Forest, Germany · Strasbourg: Petite France, half-timbered houses, Ill River cruise – a romantic blend of German and French charm. · Lake Titisee (Black Forest): Home of the cuckoo clock; optional upgrade to a boat cruise and Black Forest cake. Days 13-15 | Basel, Switzerland + Jungfraujoch Extension (Optional) · Basel: Rhine River bend, old town, mechanical fountains. · Viking Cruises optional "Swiss Mountain Views" extension: transfer to a train to the Jungfraujoch, 3454 meters above sea level for views of glaciers and snowfields. Return to the ship on the same day, no need to bring luggage. Days 16-18 | Vienna, Austria + Budapest, Hungary (If choosing the Rhine + Danube connection, fly from Basel to Vienna or Passau to board the ship) · Vienna: Schönbrunn Palace, Golden Hall, Mozart concert (upgrade option). · Budapest: The Parliament Building at night is a classic Viking Longship vantage point; Fisherman's Bastion offers views of the Danube's pearl. D19 - D20 | Prague Land Extension (optional) or Budapest Disembarkation and Return Home · Add 2 days to Prague: Charles Bridge, Prague Castle, Old Town Square Astronomical Clock. · Viking Longship still provides a Chinese-speaking guide and pick-up/drop-off, so you don't need to figure out directions yourself. 📸 Must-See Attractions & Photo Spots · Cologne Cathedral: Magnificent Gothic architecture, a World Heritage Site, and a popular photo spot for Fan Zhendong. Climb the tower in the evening to watch the Rhine sunset; every shot is wallpaper-worthy. · Amsterdam Canal Cruise: Free arrangement by Viking Longship! Cruise among the rainbow houses, feel the gentle breeze—it's incredibly chill; experience the slow pace of life in the canal city! · Jungfraujoch: The top of Europe, trains through snowfields, the Glacier Express has been newly upgraded in 2026. · Budapest Parliament Building at night: A direct shot from the top deck of the Viking Line, the lights reflecting on the Danube River—speechless with beauty. · Strasbourg's Petite France: Half-timbered houses along the Ill River, flower-lined alleyways—French romance that rivals Paris. ✅ Quick Tips Before Your Trip Visa: Viking Line offers Schengen visa assistance, a complete checklist of required documents, and appointment scheduling guidance—hassle-free. Cruise Booking: 2026 cruises have already started; early bird discounts often include round-trip airfare or a waiver of the single room supplement. Luggage: There are enough wardrobes on board; hang up your summer and winter clothes before boarding (the cabins are temperature-controlled). Internet: Free Wi-Fi on board; it's recommended to buy a European data SIM card on shore (30 euros for 10 days). Foreign Currency: Primarily Euros; all-inclusive onboard expenses are minimal; 200-300 euros should be sufficient for snacks and souvenirs on shore. Europe isn't for "rushing around," it's for "living amidst the scenery." Viking Cruises is the smart choice that lets you travel from the Netherlands in the west to Hungary in the east for 20 days without leaving your home. Colombo Cathedral, the same location Fan Zhendong visited, is waiting for you to take the same back view photo! #EuropeTravelGuide