Upper Rhine, River and Ramsar wetland between Basel and Mannheim, Germany and France.
The Upper Rhine is a river and Ramsar wetland site flowing between Basel and Mannheim through a wide valley between the Vosges Mountains and Black Forest. Along its course, it creates diverse habitats supporting different plants and animals.
The river underwent major changes in the 19th century under Johann Gottfried Tulla's direction to control floods and improve navigation. These works shaped its course and form that we see today.
Cities along the river show French and German influences in their buildings, festivals, and local traditions that blend on both sides. Visitors can see these mixed cultural elements in the streets and daily life of the communities.
Regular boat services connect major cities along the banks, while cycling paths on both sides allow visitors to explore the area. Spring and autumn are ideal times to visit when the weather is pleasant.
The river contains many artificial islands created during engineering works that now shelter water birds and amphibians. These islands have become important refuges for rare species.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 60,000 contributors worldwide.
