Rhine River Cruise from Switzerland to Germany

Up on arrival, transfer to your hotel (on own) and check-in for your 2-night stay. After some time to relax and and freshen, meet your Tour Director for a welcome meeting at 5:00pm.
Zurich is Switzerland’s largest city and blends historic charm with modern sophistication. The Old Town (Altstadt) is the heart of historic Zurich, with narrow cobblestone streets, medieval buildings, and charming squares and the Bahnhofstrasse is one of the world’s most exclusive shopping streets, stretching from the main train station to Lake Zurich.

*Depending on your arrival time your room may not be ready. Your Cruise Concierge can highlight some activities. 

This morning, we will have a walking tour of Zurich’s Old Town. Here, we explore the city’s old town, discovering its hidden gems and learning about its fascinating history. Led by a local, knowledgeable guide, you make your way through winding alleys, charming squares, and along the Limmat River, showcasing centuries-old buildings and sharing intriguing stories. This excursion offers a deeper understanding of Zurich’s evolution and uncovers places you might not have found on your own.

The remainder of the day is your to enjoy at your own before we get together for a Welcome Dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D)

Breakfast and some free time this morning before you make our way to Bern after lunch. Here, you embark on the M/S Emily Brontë where your attentive crew will greet you as you board, helping you get comfortable and acquainted with this exceptional vessel. There’s something special about the anticipation that comes with the start of a cruise, and over an excellent dinner in the elegant restaurant, you’ll likely find yourself and your fellow passengers already discussing the adventures to come. (B,D)

Today you have the choice between a full day excursion to Lucerne and the Bernese Oberland, or a more leisurely guided tour of Lucerne and free afternoon in Basel.

Lucerne
Set off early for the scenic drive to Lucerne, widely regarded as one of Switzerland’s most beautiful cities. Nestled between mountains and lake, Lucerne has captivated travelers for over two centuries, including Queen Victoria herself. Begin with a leisurely walk across the iconic Chapel Bridge, Europe’s oldest covered wooden bridge. This 14th-century pedestrian walkway stretches diagonally across the Reuss River, adorned with vibrant geraniums cascading from window boxes. As you stroll, look up to see the painted panels depicting Lucerne’s history—a remarkable open-air gallery suspended above the water. The bridge offers the perfect introduction to Lucerne’s elegant charm. From here, you can explore the picturesque old town with its painted facades, the poignant Lion Monument, and the lakefront promenade with its dramatic Alpine backdrop.

Bernese Oberland
Enter the Bernese Oberland, Switzerland’s grand alpine heart with some of Europe’s finest mountain scenery. The legendary snow-capped peaks of the Eiger, Mönch, and Jungfrau are simply awe-inspiring—Mendelssohn called this “the most wonderful of all in this unbelievably beautiful country.” Ascend by mountain railway for extraordinary vistas of crystal-clear lakes reflecting meadows and forests below in this truly magical landscape, before descending again to return to the ship.

Please note: Temperatures are significantly lower at altitude, even in summer, so pack warm clothing. Lunch is not included on this full-day excursion, but the ship will provide a packed lunch.

Basel
This afternoon, choose to stay onboard or take our shuttle bus to Basel for independent exploration. This city seamlessly blends historic and modern architecture—wander the old town’s narrow streets to the magnificent red sandstone cathedral with its colorful roof tiles and twin towers, or explore Basel’s remarkable museums and galleries celebrating its rich art tradition. (B,L,D)

This morning, cruise through the dramatic rift valley between the Vosges and Black Forest mountains to reach Breisach. Explore this ancient walled town and its impressive Saint Stephan’s Cathedral at leisure before lunch onboard. This afternoon, choose between touring the Black Forest and Freiburg or exploring the Alsace wine route with its charming wine villages.

Black Forest and Freiburg
Journey through the legendary Black Forest, a landscape of rugged valleys, rushing rivers, cascading waterfalls, and hillsides blanketed with towering pines. Watch for the Baroque spires of St. Peter Abbey as we pass through charming villages, stopping for photos of the stunning countryside near St. Märgen. In Freiburg, join a local guide to explore highlights including the Münsterplatz square and the historic Kaufhaus (merchant hall), followed by free time to discover the city at your own pace.

Alsace Wine Route
Travel the scenic Wine Route between vineyards and mountains to Ribeauvillé, a charming village nestled beneath the majestic ruins of the Three Castles of Ribeaupierre. After a brief walking tour, explore its picturesque streets lined with 15th- to 18th-century buildings and Renaissance squares.

Continue to Riquewihr, named “Most Beautiful Village in France.” This perfectly preserved medieval town sits at the heart of Alsatian wine country, celebrated for both its architecture and vintages. Discover its highlights on a walking tour with time to explore before returning to the ship. As evening falls, savor dinner with views of the twinkling riverside lights through the restaurant’s panoramic windows. Afterwards, enjoy a live performance by a talented violin soloist in the lounge as the ship slips its moorings and begins cruising toward Strasbourg. (B,L,D)

This morning, arrive in Strasbourg, capital of France’s Alsace region. After breakfast, explore the enchanting 16th-century old town on a walking tour through its maze of narrow streets and canals lined with timber-framed houses. Highlights include the magnificent Gothic Notre-Dame Cathedral, the multi-towered Ponts Couverts (covered bridges), and the charming Petite France quarter where pastel-colored former artisans’ houses line the waterways. Perhaps linger at a traditional Alsatian café to sample the region’s renowned wines—a crisp Riesling or Alsace’s distinctive specialty, the spicy Gewürztraminer.

During lunch, the ship glides away from its mooring for an afternoon of scenic cruising towards Speyer. Relax on the sun deck taking in the views, or retreat to the comfortable lounge to chat with fellow travelers over coffee. As evening approaches, enjoy another delicious meal in the restaurant’s relaxed atmosphere. Later, unwind in the bar as we arrive in Speyer for the night. (B,L,D)

Remain moored in Speyer this morning for a guided tour of this medieval treasure, one of Germany’s oldest cities with a rich and illustrious history.

The breathtaking Imperial Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, ranks among the world’s largest and finest Romanesque churches. Its beautiful four-chamber crypt, with striking marble floors and pastel-hued pillars, holds the tombs of numerous Holy Roman emperors and German kings. Another landmark is the magnificent neo-Gothic Gedächtniskirche (Memorial Church), built to commemorate the 1529 “Protestation at Speyer”—a pivotal moment when Martin Luther’s followers protested his imperial ban, giving rise to the term “Protestant.”

Return onboard for lunch as we resume cruising through idyllic scenery: rolling hills blanketed with vineyards producing the region’s famous Liebfraumilch wines, and tranquil oxbow lakes now serving as havens for birds and wildlife.

This evening, savor the special “Chef’s Dinner” featuring signature dishes and delicious specialties from the countries and regions along our route. During dinner, we arrive in Rüdesheim, the classic Rhine wine village, where you might venture ashore for a digestif—perhaps a glass of Asbach, the locally distilled brandy. (B,L,D)

After breakfast onboard, the choice is yours. You can visit Rüdesheim with visit to Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet or visit Rüdesheim with cable car to Niederwald Monument. Either is included in your river cruise.

Rüdesheim
Rüdesheim delights with its bustling marketplace, half-timbered Klunkhardshof, and Brömserburg Castle dating from 1275. Visit Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet to discover a fascinating collection of automatic musical instruments, from delicate music boxes to an enormous orchestrion. Or take a two-seater cable car above Rüdesheim’s vineyards for stunning Rhine River views. At the summit, stroll around the Niederwald Monument—celebrating Germany’s 1870s unification—and take in the peaceful panorama over the town below.

Rhine River Gorge
This afternoon, experience the dramatic Rhine Gorge—steep vineyards rising to almost vertical rocky cliffs towering above the valley. Sail past Saint Goar and ruined castles as ancient myths come alive, including the legendary Loreley Rock where beautiful nymphs lured sailors to their doom. Relax on the sun deck as the captain navigates the impressive looping bend at Boppard. Watch for the mighty 13th-century Marksburg Castle perched high above the river.

Arrive in picturesque Koblenz for dinner onboard, followed by a lively performance of traditional Rhenish folk music. (B,L,D)

This morning, you embark on a locally guided tour of Koblenz. Founded by the Romans at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers, Koblenz boasts a charming medieval old town filled with traditional shops and classic Rhineland cafés. On your guided tour, discover historic gems at every turn: the former mint, the Four Towers with their ornamental 17th-century turrets, fascinating squares and churches including the 9th-century Basilica of Saint Kastor, and the stunning waterfront featuring the medieval Balduin Bridge—remarkably still in use today. After resisting the tempting cakes at inviting pavement cafés, return to the ship for lunch as we depart Koblenz.

After, enjoy a leisurely afternoon drifting through lovely Rhineland scenery past charming riverside towns, picturesque waterfronts, and manicured vineyards. See the famous ruined bridge at Remagen, captured intact by Allied forces near the end of World War II, and the forested Siebengebirge (Seven Mountains)—ancient volcanic hills that inspired many Brothers Grimm legends, including Snow White.

During dinner, reflect on the spectacular sights and wonderful places visited on this magical cruise as we arrive at our final destination, Cologne. (B,L,D)

After breakfast, It’s time to bid farewell to your crew and transfer to the train station and board our high-speed train to Amsterdam. This 3-hour ride whisks to Amsterdam where on arrival, we transfer to our hotel in the heart of the city. After check-in, the afternoon is yours to explore Amsterdam at your own pace. (B)

Today, the choice is yours. Experience one of the many world-renowned museums like the Van Gogh Museum or discover the Frank family’s life at the Anne Frank House. If you are a fan of the Dutch Golden Age, take a short ride to Royal Delft, famous for is hand-made Delft-blue porcelain recognized the world over. Or, enjoy a leisurely canal cruise. After, you get together tonight at a local restaurant for a farewell dinner. (B,D)

Your river cruise escapade in Europe comes to an end today. Transfer to the airport (on own) at any time. (B)