About the Port
Kelheim sits where the Altmühl River meets the Danube, at the southern end of the Rhine-Main-Danube Canal, amid the rolling hills of Lower Bavaria. Rising above the town is the Befreiungshalle, a circular monument commissioned by King Ludwig I in the nineteenth century to commemorate Germany's liberation from Napoleonic rule, its terrace offering sweeping views over the river valley. Kelheim's compact center, with pastel facades and a small market square, invites an easy stroll.
Many travelers use Kelheim as a gateway to two highlights: the limestone cliffs of the Danube Gorge, best seen by boat en route to Weltenburg Abbey, a Benedictine monastery founded in the early seventh century and home to one of the world's oldest monastic breweries, and the nearby city of Regensburg, whose UNESCO-listed medieval old town lies a short distance upriver. The pier sits within walking distance of Kelheim's old town, making independent exploration simple before rejoining the ship.
Pavlus Recommendations
How our planners would spend a day in Kelheim.
Cruise the Danube Gorge to Weltenburg
Board a boat through limestone cliffs to Weltenburg Abbey, home to one of the world's oldest monastic breweries; the round trip takes about two hours and departs near the town center.
Climb the Befreiungshalle
Wind up to this circular hilltop monument for sweeping views over the river valley below; a steep 15-minute walk or short taxi ride from the pier gets you there.
Wander Regensburg's Old Town
A short trip upriver leads to a UNESCO-listed medieval quarter of stone bridges, Gothic spires, and narrow lanes, well worth the detour if time allows before returning to the ship.
Cruise Lines That Call Here
Cruises That Visit Kelheim
| Departs | Cruise Line | Ship | Itinerary | Nights | From |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 22, 2026 | Emerald Waterways | Emerald Dawn | 17 | $7,235 | |
| Nov 25, 2026 | Emerald Waterways | Emerald Dawn | 14 | $6,245 |