Germany river cruises showcase unexpected beauty in the heart of Europe

Fast cars, conceptual art and great steins of beer might all come to mind when you think of Germany, but the country situated in the heart of Europe offers more than you might expect. And here's a tip: Germany river cruises are an unparalleled way to experience the hidden allure of the country.

Cruising Germany's rivers, like the Rhine and the Moselle, shows you a different side of Germany. Here you'll find tiny villages of half-timbered houses, age-old vineyards clinging to dramatic slate hillsides and historic castles replete with legends and an air of fairy tales about them.

Germany river tours give you the opportunity to cover a lot of territory, and to do so in comfort. With all meals aboard the riverboat included, and luxurious accommodations fully arranged, any traveler can get an in-depth view of the country. Companies like Tauck offer those amenities, in addition to shore excursions with unique opportunities to delve into local culture.

Germany's rich history and multifaceted culture come to the forefront when you visit places such as these:

* Baden-Baden. The elegance of the Belle Epoque is still alive and well in the classic spa town of Baden-Baden, which has been famous for its springs and thermal baths since Roman times. Take a stroll through the heart of the old city and visit the Kurhaus casino, which is as worthwhile a destination for its decorative beauty as it is for games of chance.

* The Rhine. The Middle Rhine combines natural beauty and cultural history in a unique way. The broad expanse of the river, the villages that line its banks and the castles that overlook it give visitors a visual feast. Listen to the story of the Lorelei as you cruise along, lost in the atmospheric scenery.

* Heidelberg. Arrestingly beautiful Heidelberg captured the heart of Mark Twain (he lived here for three months), and it may well take yours, too. The famed university town straddles the Neckar river, a major Rhine tributary, and is connected by a scenic bridge. The quaint streets of the old town are perfect for meandering, but save energy for exploring Heidelbergschloss, the romantic castle that overlooks the town.

* Cochem and the Moselle Valley. Situated on a bend in the Moselle river, Cochem is a classic German river town. Reichsburg Castle, estimated to have been built around the year 1,000, still overlooks the town and provides sweeping views for visitors. While Cochem itself is a highlight of the Moselle, the entire winding river valley is dotted with charming towns and rich with wine-producing heritage. Don't miss the opportunity to try some of the local white wines, which are some of the world's finest.

* Trier. The oldest city in Germany, Trier offers plenty of surprises for visitors. In addition to classic German architecture and river bluff scenery, you'll find an ancient city gate, the Porta Nigra, and ruins of Roman baths and an amphitheater, as well as the imposing Trier cathedral and the birthplace of Karl Marx.

Those who take Germany river tours along the Rhine and Moselle valleys get to know a different side of this economic powerhouse of a country. Experiencing the culture and landscape of the region might just leave you with an entirely new impression of Germany.