Jewels of the Rhine

Depart the USA on your overnight flight to Amsterdam, the Netherlands.

Welcome to Amsterdam, a fascinating 700-year-old city of picturesque canals, world class museums, and cafés. Flights should arrive by 4:00pm. You will be met and transferred from the airport to your luxurious Emerald Cruises Star-Ship. Become acquainted with the amenities of your ship, or begin exploring the city. This evening, join your fellow travelers for dinner onboard. Meal: D

This morning, discover the charm of Alkmaar, a picturesque Dutch town just a short distance from Amsterdam. Explore its historic center, lined with charming canals and medieval buildings. Alkmaar is famous for its centuries-old cheese market where traditional cheesemakers showcase their craft and engage in lively auctions. Immerse yourself in the local culture in this typical charming town. Alternatively, embark on a bike tour through the Dutch countryside. In the afternoon enjoy sailing on the Rhine River, perhaps grab a drink on the Sun Deck and watching the passing scenery before joining the welcome dinner. Meals: B, L, D

EmeraldACTIVE: Guided bike tour to Waterland
DiscoverMORE: Dutch Delights (additional expense)

Join a walking tour of Düsseldorf, a vibrant city renowned for its stylish boutiques and charming Old Town. Stroll along the picturesque Rhine River, admire the stunning architecture, and discover hidden gems off the beaten path. Later this day we will arrive in Cologne, famous for its Gothic Cathedral. This afternoon you can immerse yourself in the city’s lively atmosphere, indulge in delicious local cuisine, and experience the unique charm of the city.Meals: B, L, D

DiscoverMORE: Cologne beer experience (extra expense)

Cruise to the 2000-year-old town of Koblenz, situated at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers. Enjoy a walking tour of Koblenz seeing the German Corner where the 2 rivers meet and the Church of Our Lady. This afternoon, sail through the spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Rhine Gorge. Pass countless medieval castles and vineyards lining the shores of this section of the river, with photo opportunities around every bend. See the infamous Lorelei statue and Pfalzgrafenstein Castle, built on an island in the middle of the river as a medieval toll station. Meals: B, L, D

DiscoverMORE: Moselle & Cochem (Reichsburg) Castle Visit (additional expense)

NOTE: You can choose either the included tour of Koblenz OR the DiscoverMORE option, as both tours operate at the same time

Continue sailing to the town of Germersheim, docking site for Heidelberg. Travel by coach to Heidelberg for a guided visit of the castle ruins and a walk along the cobblestone lanes of the old town. This evening, attend a private concert as an EmeraldPLUS activity. Meals: B, L, D

EmeraldACTIVE: Hike from Mount Königstuhl to Heidelberg
EmeraldPLUS: Private Evening Concert Performance

Travel by coach across the river to Strasbourg, the capital of the Alsace region in France. Your guided walking tour includes the Grande Île – the historical city center and UNESCO World Heritage Site.  Known for its medieval black and white timber-framed buildings, old tanning houses, baroque sandstone buildings, canals and river locks, the city’s star attraction is the cathedral, dominating the main square. Enjoy free time this afternoon to continue exploring this charming town on your own. Tonight, local entertainment is provided onboard. Meals: B, L, D

DiscoverMORE: Baden Baden Spa experience (extra expense)

On today’s adventure, visit the city of Freiburg, considered the ‘capital of the Black Forest’. Aside from seeing the lovely sights, sample true Black Forest delicacies from the lively market in the city center near the main cathedral. Alternatively, join a guided bike tour in Breisach. Meals: B, L, D

EmeraldPLUS: Guided tour of Freiburg
EmeraldACTIVE: Guided bike tour in Breisach
DiscoverMORE: Guided tour of Colmar (additional expense)

After breakfast, disembark the ship in Huningue and begin your Swiss adventure. Depart by coach to Lucerne, a picturesque town surrounded by mountains and meadows. An included walking tour highlights the city’s landmark – the famous 14th-century Chapel Bridge. See the 17th-century Renaissance Town Hall and town squares, all set amongst the beautiful backdrop of the Swiss Alps. The remainder of the day is at leisure. Meal: B

Your last day is left free of planned activities. Explore on your own, or join the optional excursion to Mt. Pilatus – a mountain overlooking Lucerne that offers a unique alpine experience! This evening, get together for an included dinner at the hotel. Meals: B, D

DiscoverMORE: Mt. Pilatus (additional expense)

Bid ‘auf wiedersehen’ to Europe and return home with memories of life enriching experiences from your European adventure and cruise along the Rhine River. Meal: B