Splendours of Europe

Welcome to Amsterdam, a postcard-worthy destination celebrated for picturesque canals, charming cafés, and world-class art galleries. Upon arrival, expect a warm greeting at the airport, followed by a seamless transfer to the comfortable and inviting surroundings of the Emerald Star-Ship. As evening approaches, take the opportunity to settle in and join fellow guests for a delightful welcome dinner on board.

Venture beyond the storied canals of Amsterdam to experience the gentler rhythm of the Dutch countryside, where emerald-green pastures, reflective waterways, and centuries-old windmills create an impossibly picturesque scene. Explore charming towns such as Alkmaar, widely celebrated for its historic cheese-making traditions, and journey through Waterland, where stilted villages, glassy lakes, and narrow canals beautifully preserve traditional rural life. Throughout this captivating region, discover exactly how resourceful locals have masterfully shaped and cultivated their magnificent landscape for generations.

Included Excursion
Timeless Dutch countryside
Step beyond the city and discover the authentic rhythm of the Dutch countryside. Wander through charming villages, see working windmills and meet locals keeping age-old traditions alive. Watch daily life unfold as you experience the simple pleasures of life surrounded by Holland’s heritage, hospitality and heart. 

Founded by the Romans in 50 AD, the cathedral city of Cologne is one of the oldest cities in Germany and the largest on the Rhine. The historic capital of the Rhineland, this illustrious city is generously peppered with ancient architecture, from Roman ruins to medieval structures and the striking twin towers of the cathedral. Though much of the inner city was destroyed during World War II, it has been meticulously rebuilt. 

Included Excursion
Quest for Cologne’s treasures
Join your local guide and explore the city on a walking tour, followed by a unique adventure that will take you hunting for some of Cologne’s most typical treasures. You be given a map with locations to find the ‘treasures’, which are unique to the city. 

Today will be a highlight of your trip, as you meander through the fairytale-like surrounds of the World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge. Hilltop castles and fortresses that have stood for more than 1,000 years will be yours to admire as you traverse this legendary stretch of river. Pass the infamous Lorelai Rock, where sailors are said to have been lured onto treacherous rocks by an enchanting siren, and the impressive Pfalzgrafenstein Castle, a former stronghold.

This afternoon, arrive in Rüdesheim, a town with a vibrant wine-growing heritage. At the heart of the Rhine Valley, it’s surrounded by terraced vineyards and filled with striking half-timbered buildings. Wander the streets to feel as though you have stepped back more than 500 years.

Included Excursion
Visit to Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet Museum
Catch the local mini train through the narrow city streets to Siegfried's Mechanical Music Cabinet Museum. Inside, discover a vast selection of more than 350 automatic mechanical music instruments ranging from the tiniest music box to the giant Concert-Piano-Orchestrion.

EmeraldACTIVE
Active Walk to Niederwalddenkmal
Enjoy an active hike through verdant vineyards to the Niederwalddenkmal, a 19th-century monument that celebrates the unification of Germany. From the top, enjoy the awe-inspiring panoramic views over Rüdesheim's old town and the shimmering waters of the Rhine.

Welcome to Miltenberg, a picturesque village on the Main River, boasting an authentic atmosphere of medieval Bavaria with its 15th-century half-timbered buildings. Set on the banks of the Main River, it was a major trade hub for centuries, but today has a relaxed ambience and hidden charms waiting around every crooked corner.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Miltenberg
Join your local guide to stroll down the cobblestone streets lined with colorful houses and view the Gothic Merchant Hall, an impressive symbol of past affluence. You can see the oldest inn in Germany, dating back to at least 1411, Miltenberg Castle, and the unique red sandstone church and bridge. 

EmeraldPLUS
Visit to Bronnbach Abbey
Experience the rich history and serene beauty of Bronnbach Abbey in nearby Wertheim. This well-preserved Cistercian monastery is known for its stunning Romanesque and Gothic architecture, peaceful cloisters, and impressive Baroque interiors.  

EmeraldACTIVE
Active Walk to Mildenburg Castle
Enjoy an active walk through the forest to the 12th-century Mildenburg Castle. This iconic landmark was once lost to time and now houses a wonderful collection of contemporary art and old masters.

Known as the ‘Pearl of the Romantic Road’, Würzburg is the center wine capital of Franconia, a position it has held since the Middle Ages. Situated on the Main River, this Franconian city is celebrated for its stunning architecture, vibrant culture and historical significance. 

Included Excursion
Walking tour of Würzburg and a visit to the Bishop’s Residence
The architects behind the World Heritage-listed Würzburg Residence drew inspiration from a spectrum of different styles, including Viennese Baroque and secular features from Italy, but it was heavily damaged during World War II. Enjoy learning about how this impressive building was restored to its former glory on a guided tour.

This morning, relax on board and witness the beauty of Europe’s waterways from the elegant surrounds of your cabin as you cruise to Bamberg. The World Heritage-listed town boasts one of the largest medieval centers in Europe, with around 2,400 listed buildings gracing its streets.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Bamberg
Feel the magic of the past as you explore the city with your local guide, marveling at the opulence of the New Residence, once inhabited by the prince bishops and now home to a plethora of old German and Baroque paintings from the Bavarian State collection. Enjoy a tranquil stroll around the Rose Garden to round your day off peacefully.

Welcome to Nuremberg. The second-largest city in Bavaria, it has a fascinating and complex history, from its position of power in the Middle Ages to the artistic flourishes of the Renaissance.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Nuremberg
Embark on a sightseeing tour of the historic city of Nuremberg, including the architectural wonders that have inspired famous artists for centuries and see the effects that the war years had. After your tour, enjoy time to explore Nuremberg at leisure, passing half-timbered houses that were beautifully reconstructed following the war.

This morning, cruise the final stretch of the fascinating Main-Danube Canal to Regensburg. As you continue down the Danube, one of Germany’s best-preserved medieval cities welcomes you with two millennia of history. Despite its ancient past, modern-day Regensburg has a relaxed atmosphere with its streets made lively by the high population of university students.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Regensburg
Set out on foot to discover the highlights of Regensburg. Wander the streets with your guide, as the romantic narrow alleys of the World Heritage-listed Old Town and 13th-century Town Hall invite you to live through the city’s history. The highlight of your tour will be the 12th-century Stone Bridge, a medieval structure crossing the Danube. Enjoy time to explore Regensburg at leisure.

EmeraldPLUS
Bavarian band performance on board
Make your way to the Horizon Bar & Lounge for a special performance from a Bavarian band, who will play traditional music and wear their authentic Lederhosen.

Passau is a picturesque city that has been shaped by the surrounding rivers over the years, sitting at the confluence of the Danube, Inn and Ilz. This memorable destination is dominated by large squares, magical promenades and romantic lanes. Cobblestone streets and graceful arcades welcome you in the beautiful city of Passau.

Return for lunch on board and an afternoon peacefully cruising along the Danube en route to Linz. Later tonight, enjoy a waltz dance show on board. 

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Passau
On this morning’s walking tour, stroll through streets lined by Baroque buildings dating back to the 17th century and look at the Gothic Town Hall, Bishop’s Residence and St. Stephen’s Cathedral, a wonderful example of Baroque architecture and home to the largest church organ in Europe.

Situated within Austria’s famed Wachau Valley, the county’s premier wine-growing region, Melk is home to a 900-year-old World Heritage-listed Benedictine abbey. A charming and compact port, it is filled with flower-lined laneways, colorful buildings and sprawling green spaces. Later, cruise through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Wachau Valley and on to Dürnstein, one of the most enchanting villages in the Wachau wine region.

Included Excursion
Tour of Melk Abbey
Explore this ancient abbey today on an included tour. Your guide will take you through a series of opulent rooms, each adorned with the finest Italian Baroque architecture and ornate gold leaf walls, including the ancient monastic library, renowned for its extensive collection of medieval manuscripts. 

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided e-bike tour along the Danube
Enjoy an active guided e-bike ride along the Danube from Melk to Dürnstein, passing famous vineyards and quaint towns before settling down for a picnic on the riverbanks. E-bikes will take you smoothly along the 30km (18.64 miles) route through picturesque surroundings, including a relaxing break for a refreshing drink along the way. 

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided hike to Dürnstein Castle
Hike to Dürnstein Castle, the site where Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned after returning from the Crusades. Conquer the challenging yet rewarding trail, and you be able to take in the spectacular panoramas of the river and surrounding countryside from the peak.

Austria’s breathtaking capital is recognized for its cultural legacy. As the former residence of Mozart and Beethoven, a multitude of imperial palaces represent a rich history, and the museum district boasts contemporary buildings, housing the work of some of the world’s most prolific artists. 

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Vienna
Explore the famous sights of the Ringstrasse and Vienna’s city center by coach and on foot, or join a guided e-bike tour. Marvel at the Renaissance-style arches that adorn the façades of the Opera House, the Baroque Burgtheater and the Flemish Gothic Parliament before enjoying time to explore Vienna at leisure.

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided e-bike tour of Vienna
Embark on a guided e-bike tour of Vienna to Danube Island. Your guide will talk about why Vienna is the most livable city in the world and share personal stories, introducing you to a different side of the city. Visit places other travelers won’t see and experience the authentic Vienna.

Set at the crossroads of ancient trade routes in the heart of Europe, the Slovakian capital of Bratislava is a place where Baroque palaces, boutiques and cafés adorn medieval cobblestone streets. At the same time, the complex history of Communism can be found in its Brutalist landmarks and military monuments.

Included Excursion
Walking tour of Bratislava
Enjoy a sightseeing tour, including the enchanting Old City. Your local guide will take you through the heart of the city. Pass by the botanical gardens of the Episcopal Summer Palace, the Old Town Hall and its delightful Renaissance courtyard and the Slovak National Theater, where busts of famous composers adorn the façade. After your tour, enjoy free time to explore at leisure. 

EmeraldPLUS
Home-hosted coffee and cake with a Slovakian family
Be invited into the home of a local Slovakian family to learn about their culture over coffee and cake. Get an insight into their history, culture and traditions as they show you how they live every day. 

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided hike to Bratislava Castle
This active excursion begins at the port of Bratislava, passing the monumental building of the Slovak National Theater and continuing to the extensive riverside promenade. Admire the Gothic St. Martin's Cathedral, the most famous sacral building in Bratislava, climb the hill to Bratislava Castle for panoramic views, see St Michael’s Gate and walk through the main square. 

Budapest is Eastern Europe’s liveliest and most cosmopolitan city. The Hungarian capital is divided by the iconic Danube River, with Buda and Pest on either side. They can be reached via the Chain Bridge, one of the city’s most symbolic structures.

Included Excursion
Guided coach tour of Budapest
Enjoy a guided tour of the city with your local guide this morning. Explore the World Heritage-listed center, traveling through the chapters of architecture through the ages from Romanesque to Baroque and classical façades. See the Liberty Statue, Heroes’ Square and the Buda Castle district, before a walking tour showcases Matthias Church and the Fisherman’s Bastion.

EmeraldPLUS
Traditional Hungarian folklore show on board
Enjoy a Hungarian folk dancing and music performance on board. 

EmeraldACTIVE
Hike to Gellert Hill
Strap on your walking shoes for a beautiful hike up to the World Heritage-listed site of Gellért Hill. On your walk, take in the stunning views of the Danube River and the city’s architecture. Pass landmarks like Várkert Bazaar and beautifully landscaped gardens, making this an unforgettable experience in Budapest. 

After breakfast, it's time to say farewell to your fellow guests and disembark your Emerald Star-Ship for your transfer to the airport, taking memories of the delightful Danube with you.

Due to new restrictions on cruise ships at Amsterdam’s city docks, your cruise is now likely to embark and/or disembark at a port outside central Amsterdam. If your ship does not have a central Amsterdam docking, Emerald Cruises will provide a central Amsterdam meeting point and transfers to your ship as required. These changes are required by local authorities and are in line with the booking terms which allow changes to berthing or dock locations and ports where operationally necessary. You be advised of the confirmed docking location prior to departure.

This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to the terms and conditions for further information.