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Old city of Koblenz by night

Jewels of the Rhine

Amsterdam - Zurich - Example 8 Day Cruise aboard Emerald Dawn
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Embark on an 8-day river cruise from Amsterdam to Zurich aboard the Emerald Dawn. Begin your captivating river journey by delving into the charm of The Netherlands with a visit to Alkmaar, famed for its centuries-old Dutch cheese-making traditions. Sail through idyllic landscapes adorned with iconic windmills before arriving in Dusseldorf for a guided walking tour. Immerse yourself in Cologne’s rich history, highlighted by its awe-inspiring Gothic cathedral, and uncover the ancient allure of Koblenz, a city with Roman roots. Glide through the UNESCO-listed Rhine Gorge, where enchanting castles dot the riverbanks, and continue to Heidelberg, a UNESCO City of Literature. Discover Strasbourg’s medieval splendor, then venture to Freiburg, the heart of the Black Forest, where you can indulge in regional culinary delights.
Cologne, GermanyHistoric old town StrasbourgOld buildings in AmsterdamEnjoy a tranquil stroll in AmsterdamStop in beautiful Basel, SwitzerlandExplore quaint towns along the RhineOld city of Koblenz by night
Highlights
  • Explore Alkmaar's historic charm with canals and medieval architecture
  • Sail Rhine’s scenic landscapes, dotted with iconic windmills and villages
  • Stroll Dusseldorf's vibrant streets and discover its stylish atmosphere
  • Discover Cologne's Gothic cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed masterpiece
Activity Level: Variable
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Amsterdam | Embark

Welcome to the Netherlands and the iconic city of Amsterdam. Upon arrival, be warmly greeted at the airport and escorted to your ship, where the welcoming captain and crew await to ensure a memorable start to your journey.

Day 2: Amsterdam

This morning, explore the enchanting town of Alkmaar, a quaint Dutch gem near Amsterdam. Stroll through its historic center, adorned with scenic canals and medieval architecture, and visit its renowned centuries-old cheese market, where traditional cheesemakers display their craft in lively auctions. Soak up the local charm or opt for a bike tour through the picturesque Dutch countryside.  

In the afternoon, unwind as you sail along the Rhine River, sipping a drink on the Sun Deck while enjoying the stunning scenery. Later, gather with fellow guests for a delightful welcome dinner on board.

Included Excursion
Excursion to Alkmaar

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided bike tour to Waterland

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Dutch Delights (extra expense)

Day 3: Dusseldorf | Cologne

Today, join a walking tour of Dusseldorf, 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 today, arrive in Cologne, one of Germany’s oldest cities,  famous for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Gothic Cathedral.

Included Excursion
Walking tour of Duesseldorf

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Cologne beer experience (extra expense)

Day 4: Koblenz

Immerse yourself in fairytale-like surroundings as you sail to Koblenz, a town revealing a postcard-worthy backdrop of vineyards and mountain ranges. Your included walking tour of this Roman-era town will take in the twin-towered facade of the Church of Our Lady, the point at which two of Europe’s greatest rivers converge at the German Corner.

This afternoon, relish sailing through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge. Here, marvel at romantic castles dramatically resting atop tree-covered canyons and half-timbered medieval villages that appear almost suspended in time.

Included Excursion
Walking tour of Koblenz

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Moselle Valley & Cochem Castle Visit (extra expense)

Day 5: Heidelberg (Germersheim)

This morning, discover Heidelberg, a delightful UNESCO City of Literature inspired by American writer Mark Twain and British artist William Turner. A guided tour of the town will unveil its rich history, starting at the Renaissance ruins of Heidelberg Castle, among the most important Renaissance structures north of the Alps. Here, carefully curated gardens are home to serene water features, sculptures, and colorful flowerbeds. If you’re feeling more active, you can join a hike revealing panoramic views across Heidelberg. Tonight, as part of your EmeraldPLUS experience, you’re invited to join an enchanting private concert at a historical venue.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Heidelberg

EmeraldACTIVE
Active hike from Mount Konigstuhl to Heidelberg

EmeraldPLUS
Private Evening Concert along the Rhine

Day 6: Kehl | Strasburg

This morning, arrive in Kehl and then be transferred by coach to the picturesque town of Strasbourg, where an enchanting medieval past awaits among quaint, cobblestone squares framed by well-preserved, half-timbered houses.

During your included excursion, discover the heart of Alsace in Strasbourg and embark on a mouthwatering journey, discovering the traditional flavors of this region. Alternatively, join a guided hike in the heart of the Alsace region.

Included Excursion
Flavours of Alsace

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided hike in Alsace

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Baden Baden Spa Experience (extra expense)

Day 7: Breisach | Freiburg

Today, as part of your marvelous EmeraldPLUS experience, visit the charming city of Freiburg. Considered the 'Capital of the Black Forest,' Freiburg offers lovely sights that will amaze you. As part of your visit, you can also have the opportunity to sample authentic Black Forest delicacies. If you feel more active, pedal through Breisach on a guided bike tour.

EmeraldPLUS
Guided tour of Freiburg with tasting 

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided bike tour in Breisach 

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Guided tour of Colmar (extra expense)

Day 8: Basel | Zurich | Disembark

  • 1 Breakfast
After breakfast, it's time to say farewell to your ship and fellow guests and disembark for your transfer to the airport, taking memories of the Black Forest with you.  

Please book your flight to depart out of Zurich after 11:30 AM.

Ship/Hotel

Emerald Dawn

Outdoor Terrace
Horizon bar and lounge
Sundeck

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Deals

2-for-1 Savings 26570
Connect with a Trip Planner to discuss 2-for-1 fares on select sailings.  Valid on new bookings.
Applies to select departures and subject to availability.

Special Deals 27257
Book your 2025 Scenic/Emerald Europe River cruise by March 31, 2025, and take advantage of the reduced deposit offer of $100 per person and air credit of $2000 per person. A deposit is required at the time of booking. These promotions apply to new bookings only. Offer is combinable with 2-for-1 Fares, Pay in Full offers, Emerald Exclusive/Scenic Select Savings, Flash sales, and Holiday Deals. Additional restrictions may apply. Please contact us for details.
Applies to 2025 Scenic and Emerald Europe River Cruises.

Spring into Savings Sale 27366
Book your Emerald Europe River cruise for select 2025 departures between March 17-31, 2025, and enjoy 2-for-1 fare on your cruise pricing.

An additional bonus savings of up to $1,250 per suite on select departures. Savings vary by departure.

Free air offers are also available based on suite category and destination when you pay in full 10 months before departure. If sailing is within 10 months, you can pay in full within 30 days to receive these offers or 90 days prior to departure - whichever is soonest. Bonus savings options are available instead of air with the same payment terms.

Bonus savings of up to $300 per person on select departures with non-refundable booking terms. Full payment is required within 48 hours of booking, with no exceptions. Code: NONREF

Single Supplement: A free single supplement is available on select departures. Full payment is required. Other departure dates may have a 45% single supplement. Single supplement offers do not apply to S, RA, or SA cabin categories.

Flexible Booking Plan allows you to defer your booking to an alternative date or cancel your journey until 90 days before departure. Enjoy a Future Travel Credit to use on an alternate tour/cruise, valid for 24 months. The offer is valued at $125 per person—no substitutions, no cash value.

Additional restrictions may apply. Please contact us for details.
Applies to 2025 Emerald Europe River Cruises.

Per person starting at
$7,990 2-3 travelers

Please confirm embark/disembark locations before reserving flights, as this itinerary operates in reverse on alternating departures.
 
Emerald Single Stateroom
Single Stateroom (ES)
Single Occupancy Only. 117 sq ft. 2 single cabins located on the Riviera Deck with a deluxe single bed, bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries and hairdryer, flat-screen TV and infotainment system
Emerald Stateroom
Stateroom (E)
162 sq ft. 9 cabins located on the Riviera Deck with a Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds, bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries and hairdryer, flat-screen TV and infotainment system
Emerald Stateroom
Stateroom (D)
162 sq ft. 8 cabins located on the Riviera Deck with a Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds, bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries and hairdryer, flat-screen TV and infotainment system
Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite
Panorama Balcony Suite (C)
180 sq ft. 19 cabins located on the Vista Deck with a Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds, indoor balcony with open-air system, bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries and hairdryer, flat-screen TV and infotainment system
Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite
Panorama Balcony Suite (B)
180 sq ft. 18 cabins located on the Vista Deck with a Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds, indoor balcony with open-air system, bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries and hairdryer, flat-screen TV and infotainment system
Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite
Panorama Balcony Suite (A)
180 sq ft. 23 cabins located on the Horizon Deck with a Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds, indoor balcony with open-air system, bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries and hairdryer, flat-screen TV and infotainment system
Grand Balcony Suite
Grand Balcony Suite (S)
210 sq ft. 8 cabins located on the Horizon Deck with a Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds, outdoor private balcony with the open-air system, in-suite mini-bar available at own expense, a complimentary Nespresso machine and bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hairdryer, on-board complimentary bathrobes, and slippers
Owners One-Bedroom Suite
Owner's Suite (SA)
315 sq ft. 4 cabins located on the Horizon Deck with a Queen-size or twin beds, an outdoor private balcony with the open-air system, a separate bathroom and lounge area, a walk-in wardrobe, an in-suite mini-bar, restocked daily with wine, beer, and soft drinks

Notes

Single accommodations are available on some tours for an additional single supplement rate. Contact us for details of pricing and availability.
Included
  • 7 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 7 Dinners
  • 7 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Choice between Emerald Plus and Emerald Active Excursions
  • Wifi
  • Complimentary Wine, Beer and Soft drinks with lunch and dinner on board
  • The services of an Emerald Cruises Tour Manager
  • Airport transfers to and from the ship
  • Port taxes and charges
  • All tipping and gratuities
  • Including a Welcome and Farewell Reception & Dinner
  • Guided tour of Strasbourg, Heidelberg and Cologne's Old Town
  • Walking tour of Koblenz & a visit to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress
  • Canal cruise in Amsterdam
Excluded
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Travelers are urged to arrange comprehensive travel insurance to cover any unforeseen circumstances that may occur during the tour

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The trip was terrific with great planning on your part. Most of the adventures were not mainstream and somewhat off the beaten path which made it especially enjoyable!! We felt taken care of and you all were readily available to respond to questions and issues. I would highly recommend your company and friends have already expressed interest based on our pictures and excitement.
Gale Cantor

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