Discover the charms of this historic German city on a luxury cruise

What's good about it? Quaint and quiet, on the west bank of the Rhine, Speyer is dominated by a Romanesque imperial cathedral, the burial place of some of Europe's most notable Holy Roman emperors.

Best for: Marvel at the exterior of the red sandstone cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Reconstructed after Louis XIV's invasion, its towers dominate the skyline. Pass the Jewish courtyard, once home to one of the most important medieval synagogues, and Speyer's Old Gate, the last of the town's fortifications. Visit the gardens of Schloss Schwetzingen and admire the baroque architecture amid beautiful flora. You can even drive to the nearby town of Schwetzingen, famous for its eponymous palace and gardens.