Travel
Evaluation of a Beer-Themed Europe Rhine River Cruise
It was offered like a bottle of wine, however the white label learn “Kriek” and beneath that “Bier.” Sitting across the again tables at In de Wildeman, a cave-like former distillery within the coronary heart of Amsterdam’s historic and central De Wallen neighborhood and one of many most well-liked haunts of the late Anthony Bourdain, I positioned my nostril within the bell-shaped snifter glass and smelled extra cherry than beer.
I took a sip and plucked a smoked mussel from the bowl on the middle of the desk. With a chunk and a sip, the fruity acidity of the beer brightened the morsel’s intense smokiness, and I eagerly reached for an additional one. It was one thing I’d by no means suppose to order myself in a bar that I might need walked straight previous within the panorama of tourist-catering downtown eating places, but it surely had come extremely advisable by the skilled who had led me to this noon indulgence.
Discover Amsterdam via the eyes and style buds of an skilled beer sommelier.
Picture by Arcady/Shutterstock
James Kellow is a beer sommelier who traded England for Holland 5 years in the past and now runs his formerly London-based beer tours in Amsterdam. On this expedition via the town’s traditional pubs and beer outlets, Kellow provides us not simply the historical past of the Dutch craft brew scene but additionally the context of what’s very new and what’s very previous, describing brewing traditions that date again to the monasteries and introducing us to some of the town’s most exuberant characters.
Not like different pub crawls, the place you half methods together with your information after a number of hours of tastings, Kellow could be becoming a member of me and the others in our beer-curious cohort aboard the 110-passenger Riverside Debussy river cruise ship for the following 4 nights. The Hops & Heritage Cruise is a part of Riverside Luxury Cruises’ new foray into expert-led gastro-cruising experiences, and the following one is on the market to e book for a July 29 to August 5, 2026, crusing from Basel to Amsterdam.
Crusing the Rhine with a beer sommelier
On the first port of name, the charming Dutch city of Enkhuizen, Kellow introduced us to satisfy the colourful De Browvrouw (the brew girl), often known as Karin Mazereeuw, who based her brewery Schipperscafé ‘t Ankertje simply throughout the canal from the city’s Sixteenth-century tower. As we labored our method via six brews, together with the Dubbel Leckertje, which Mazereeuw informed us she made particularly for any girl who says she doesn’t like beer, Kellow defined the position girls performed in Europe’s brewing historical past. Previous to beer’s industrialization, girls, particularly nuns, have been the continent’s authentic brewers, funding their convents whereas experimenting with new types.
Multicourse beer-pairing tasting menus are served within the Riverside Debussy’s unique Classic Room non-public occasion house.
Courtesy of Riverside Luxurious Cruises
Earlier than returning to the ship, we stopped at De Werf, a beer backyard overlooking the harbor. I ordered one thing gentle, an Oedipus Thai Thai Tripel, as a result of later that evening, we’d be handled to a spotlight of the cruise, a multicourse tasting menu with beer pairings within the Debussy’s Classic Room, the ship’s non-public eating space. Offered with white-glove service alongside dishes like caviar-topped tuna and foie gras, in addition to a succulent venison fillet, every beer was additionally chosen to chop via or mix or distinction with the flavors of every dish, whereas representing a major part of Europe’s beer belt, which stretches from Eire to Romania.
“This one,” Kellows mentioned whereas pouring Moeursleutl’s Belgian Quad from a roughly textured can, “is an actual juicy man.” He then went on to clarify that aluminum cans typically protect the flavour of beer higher than glass as a result of they shield the brew from extreme gentle publicity that may change the flavour. To enhance dessert, we had a malty finale of the Weihenstephaner Doppelbock. It was an ideal end with toffee and chocolate notes and an emblematic beer of the world’s oldest brewery.
A port name within the Dutch city of Enkhuizen yielded an impromptu lesson on how girls (significantly nuns) have performed a task in Europe’s brewing historical past.
Picture by Jolanda Aalbers/Shutterstock
In a single day, we reached the following port of Wesel in Germany, the place I spent a day exploring the grassy banks of the Rhine alone with one of many ship’s complimentary e-bikes to construct my urge for food for the night. We returned to the Debussy’s tasting room, however this time Kellow drew his inspiration from the ship’s well-stocked cheese pantry for his pairings. To accompany a pointy but considerably candy German blue cheese, he selected a Trappist Quadrupel, one other uncommon and extremely coveted beer from the St. Sixtus Abbey in Belgium, the place the annual manufacturing is proscribed to what the small employees of monks must maintain their modest residing. Realizing no beer might comply with one of many world’s greatest, I ordered a nightcap negroni (made with coffee-infused Campari) on the highest deck and watched the sundown as we sailed on towards Düsseldorf.
Right here, Kellow challenged us to make use of our newly refined senses for detecting notes of caramel and hops. Düsseldorf is the capital of Altbier, an “old-style” ale the colour of darkish copper. We might see a few of the metropolis’s sights on the best way, just like the crooked church steeple, however our fundamental mission was clear: to go to all 5 of the Altbier breweries and decide our favorites. We tried each brewhouse, from the traditional and expansive Uerige to the youthful, extra industrial-looking Kürzer, but it surely was Schumacher that gained my prime rating with the primary sip, which hit easily with notes of strawberry and had the least bitter aftertaste.
Düsseldorf is the capital of Altbier, a conventional, darkish copper-colored ale.
Picture by r.classen/Shutterstock
By the point I disembarked in Cologne, my palate for beer had expanded. I used to be drawn to the breweries of the Rhine as a option to unlock the area’s historical past whereas visiting the small cities alongside one in all Europe’s meandering waterways. However Kellow’s tour was not simply taking a deeper dive into the tales of reclusive monks and progressive nuns. It was additionally concerning the tales that beer can inform when given its place on the gourmand’s desk, alongside the even higher tales you’ll hear and inform when ingesting alongside new pals on the native taproom.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe primary go to of Hawaiian royals to London two centuries in the past will characteristic in a brand new exhibit on the British Museum.
Hawai’i: A Kingdom Crossing Oceans is a “dazzling celebration of the wealthy artistry of Hawaiian makers, previous current and future”, based on the museum.
The exhibition, which opens in January, will commemorate greater than 200 years for the reason that go to of Hawaiian King Liholiho and Queen Kamāmalu to London in 1824 when the royal delegation have been searching for an alliance and safety from the Crown.
This journey to the capital included a go to to the British Museum – the primary file of Native Hawaiian royals on the museum.
Royal Assortment Enterprises LtdThe exhibition will characteristic round 150 objects and artworks together with many by no means seen within the UK.
Among the many highlights is an ahu ʻula, a feathered cloak despatched in 1810 by the primary king of unified Hawaiʻi, Kamehameha I, to King George III.
Lent by King Charles III from the Royal Assortment, the cloak will probably be on show for the primary time in over 100 years, alongside the Hawaiian king’s authentic letter requesting assist and safety from the British Crown.
Trustees of the British MuseumGuests to the museum will probably be greeted on the steps of the Nice Courtroom by a nine-foot (2.7m) picture of the god Kū, the god of warfare and governance, dressed with a recent loincloth and standing atop a pole rediscovered inside a historic plinth.
A finely carved drum accompanied by an historic chant recounting early Polynesian migrations to Hawaii will characteristic alongside a bowl with determine, not too long ago returned from mortgage to Hawaii’s Bernice Pauahi Bishop Museum, that represents actions of individuals and objects between the Pacific and the UK.
The Anglo-Franco proclamation of 1843, on mortgage from The Nationwide Archives, highlights the UK and France’s formal recognition of Hawaii’s independence and emphasises diplomatic bonds between the nations.
Trustees of the British MuseumThe creation of the exhibition concerned “the meticulous conservation of ancestral treasures and the inclusion of ʻōlelo Hawaiʻi (the Hawaiian language) all through the area”, the British Museum mentioned.
Dr Alice Christophe, head of Oceania on the museum, mentioned the exhibit is a tribute to Native Hawaiian makers, previous and current.
She added: “It tells the story of the deep and layered relationship between Hawaii and the UK, reflecting on care, sovereignty and the complexity of allyship.
“We hope this present will spark conversations and uplift folks within the archipelago and past.”
The exhibition will run from 15 January to 25 May 2026.
France is a rustic steeped in historical past, and nowhere is that this extra evident than its fantastically preserved medieval cities.
From Alsace’s timber-framed homes to Provence’s dramatic hilltop villages.
These cities permit guests to step again in time, wander cobblestone streets, marvel at historical structure, and expertise the appeal of bygone eras.
On this listing, we’ve gathered 20 of the best-preserved medieval cities in France that you simply completely should see.
20 Greatest Medieval Cities in France To Go to
Scroll down to find the 20 finest medieval cities in France that needs to be on each historical past buff and tradition fanatic’s bucket listing!
1. Riquewihr, Alsace
Riquewihr is a picturesque village in Alsace typically described as some of the lovely in France.
Its well-preserved Sixteenth-century structure, with colourful half-timbered homes lining slender cobblestone streets, makes it really feel like stepping right into a fairy story.
Guests ought to come right here to expertise the distinctive Alsatian tradition, discover the encircling vineyards, and style the area’s well-known wines.
Don’t miss the Dolder Tower, a Thirteenth-century defensive gate, or wine cellars providing tastings. The Alsace villages are among the most picturesque places in France.
2. Eguisheim, Alsace
Eguisheim, a cute fairytale town in France, is thought for its concentric round format and vibrant floral shows.
The city’s magnificence lies in its colourful medieval homes, charming central sq., and surrounding vineyards.
Guests will take pleasure in strolling by the slender streets, visiting the Chapel of St. Leo IX, and mountain climbing the close by Three Castles path.
The city can also be well-known for its storks, which nest on rooftops throughout summer time.
3. Rocamadour, Occitanie
One in all France’s most unique towns is Rocamadour, a vertical village dramatically constructed into the face of a cliff. Its beautiful location and spiritual significance make it a must-visit place that needs to be in your France bucket list.
The city is dwelling to a number of vital spiritual websites, together with the Sanctuary of the Blessed Virgin Mary.
Guests can climb the Grand Escalier (Nice Staircase) to the château on the prime, which gives breathtaking views of the Alzou Canyon.
4. Sarlat-la-Canéda, Dordogne
Sarlat is without doubt one of the best-preserved medieval cities in France, well-known for its golden stone buildings and gastronomic delights.
Guests ought to come right here to wander the labyrinthine streets, discover the bustling market, and take pleasure in native specialties like foie gras and truffles.
Don’t miss the panoramic view from the highest of the Sainte-Marie church tower or a go to to the Manoir de Gisson.
5. Dinan, Brittany
Dinan is a walled city recognized for its spectacular ramparts, half-timbered homes, and picturesque port.
Guests will love strolling alongside the previous metropolis partitions, exploring the quaint Rue du Jerzual, and having fun with a meal at one of many cafes alongside the previous port.
The city’s magnificence is enhanced by its location overlooking the Rance River. Go to the Château de Dinan and climb the Tour de l’Horloge for panoramic views.
6. Honfleur, Normandy
Honfleur, with its picturesque previous harbor and slate-covered home facades, has lengthy been a favourite topic for artists.
Guests come for the charming ambiance, maritime historical past, and glorious seafood eating places.
Key points of interest embody the wood Church of Saint Catherine, the Eugene Boudin Museum, and the gorgeous Jardin des Personnalités.
7. Perouges, Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes
Perouges is a superbly preserved medieval walled city that appears frozen in time. Its cobbled streets and stone homes make it a preferred movie location.
Guests ought to expertise life in a Fifteenth-century city, style the native specialty “galette de Pérouges,” and benefit from the peaceable ambiance. Don’t miss the central Place du Tilleul or the Eglise-Forteresse.
8. Saint-Cirq-Lapopie, Occitanie
Perched excessive above the Lot River, Saint-Cirq-Lapopie is a shocking medieval village that has impressed many artists. Its magnificence lies in its dramatic setting, Gothic facades, and slender alleyways.
Guests can discover quite a few artisan outlets, hike within the surrounding space, or take a ship journey on the Lot River. The village is especially magical within the night when the day-trippers have left.
9. Gordes, Provence
Gordes is a placing hilltop village within the Luberon area, well-known for its stone buildings cascading down the hillside.
Guests come for the breathtaking views, particularly at sundown, and to discover the encircling lavender fields and olive groves.
Key points of interest embody the Sixteenth-century château, the close by Sénanque Abbey, and the standard Tuesday market.
10. Locronan, Brittany
Locronan is a small city that has maintained its Renaissance appeal, with granite homes and an exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the dearth of seen trendy infrastructure, making it really feel actually timeless. The city is thought for its spiritual heritage, conventional Breton festivals, and as a filming location.
Don’t miss the Church of Saint Ronan or the native artisan workshops.
11. Cordes-sur-Ciel, Occitanie
Cordes-sur-Ciel, or “Cordes within the Sky,” is aptly named for its hilltop location, typically shrouded in morning mist. This bastide city is thought for its well-preserved Gothic structure and thriving arts scene.
Guests ought to come to discover the medieval homes, go to artisan workshops, and revel in panoramic views of the countryside. The city hosts a well-known medieval competition every July.
12. Mont Saint-Michel, Normandy
Mont Saint-Michel is without doubt one of the most iconic landmarks in France, a medieval marvel that rises dramatically from the ocean.
This UNESCO World Heritage website is a small rocky island topped by a shocking abbey and surrounded by a picturesque village.
Guests are drawn by its distinctive structure, wealthy historical past, and the fascinating phenomenon of maximum tides that isolate and join it to the mainland.
Discover the winding streets, go to the magnificent abbey, and be taught concerning the website’s significance as a pilgrimage heart.
13. Minerve, Occitanie
Minerve is a small village with a dramatic historical past, perched on a rocky peninsula between two deep gorges. Guests come for its Cathar historical past, beautiful pure setting, and glorious native wines.
Discover the village’s slender streets, go to the Twelfth-century church, and be taught concerning the Cathar siege on the small museum.
14. Monpazier, Nouvelle-Aquitaine
Monpazier is without doubt one of the best-preserved bastide cities in France, recognized for its excellent grid format and exquisite central sq..
Guests will admire the well-preserved medieval and Seventeenth-century structure, the lined market corridor, and the peaceable ambiance.
15. Moustiers-Sainte-Marie, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Moustiers-Sainte-Marie is nestled between two rocky cliffs, with a star suspended on a series between them.
The city is known for its advantageous porcelain and proximity to the Verdon Gorge – one of many best places in the French Riviera area.
Guests ought to discover the slender streets, go to the Notre Dame de Beauvoir chapel perched above the city, and store for native ceramics.
16. Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert, Occitanie
Saint-Guilhem-le-Désert is a serene medieval village tucked right into a dramatic gorge on the pilgrim path to Santiago de Compostela.
Its UNESCO-listed Gellone Abbey, with its exceptional Romanesque structure, rises above a maze of slender streets and stone homes.
Don’t miss the abbey’s lovely cloister, the Place de la Liberté with its historical elm tree, or the satan’s bridge spanning the gorge.
17. Conques, Occitanie
Conques is a jewel of Romanesque artwork nestled in a wooded gorge in Occitanie.
Its magnificent Abbey Church of Saint Foy, with its intricate tympanum and golden reliquary, has drawn pilgrims for hundreds of years alongside the Santiago de Compostela route.
Don’t miss the treasury’s medieval goldsmith assortment, the carved capitals within the cloister, or the sundown view from the Bancarel viewpoint.
18. Najac, Occitanie
Najac is a shocking medieval fortress city perched dramatically alongside a single ridge excessive above the Aveyron River.
Its majestic Thirteenth-century royal fortress stands on the highest level, whereas the village’s stone and half-timbered homes stretch alongside the ridge in a novel linear format.
Don’t miss the Gothic church of Saint-Jean with its uncommon fortified options, the panoramic views from the fortress hold, or the traditional lined market corridor the place native farmers promote their produce.
19. Vézelay, Bourgogne-Franche-Comté
Vézelay is a hilltop village in Burgundy topped by its magnificent Basilica of Saint Mary Magdalene.
This UNESCO World Heritage website rises majestically above the Remedy Valley, its golden stone glowing within the sundown whereas its medieval streets are lined with historic homes and ramparts.
Don’t miss the spectacular views over the Burgundian countryside, or the home the place Jules Roy lived, now a literature museum.
20. Saint-Paul-de-Vence, Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur
Saint-Paul-de-Vence is a remarkably preserved medieval city perched on a hilltop close to Good, remodeled into an inventive haven within the twentieth century.
Its large medieval ramparts encircle slender cobblestone streets lined with elegant stone homes, whereas up to date artwork galleries and boutiques occupy historical buildings.
Remaining Ideas on The Greatest French Medieval Cities
Exploring France’s medieval cities is like stepping right into a residing historical past e-book.
Every village gives a novel glimpse into the nation’s wealthy previous, well-preserved structure, and timeless appeal.
From the long-lasting Mont Saint-Michel to the lesser-known gems like Perouges, these cities present unforgettable experiences for historical past lovers, tradition lovers, and informal vacationers alike.
Able to plan your trip in France? Use our complete France Travel Guide to make sure you don’t miss any of the unbelievable locations.
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