Top Reasons to Go

Drachenfels: This dramatic castle in Königswinter crowns a high hill overlooking the Rhine.

Fastnacht: Germany's Carnival season culminates with huge parades, round-the-clock music, and dancing in Düsseldorf, Köln, and Mainz the week before Ash Wednesday.

Rhine in Flames: These massive displays of fireworks take place the first Saturday in May in Linz-Bonn; the first Saturday in July in Bingen-Rüdesheim; the second Saturday in August in Koblenz; the second Saturday in September in Oberwesel; and the third Saturday in September in St. Goar.

The romance of the Rhine: From cruises to Rhine-view rooms, castles to terraced vineyards, the Rhine does not disappoint.

Spectacular wine: A whole culinary tradition has grown up around the distinctive light white wines of the Rhine and Mosel.