Board the River Empress and delve into the history and culture of western Europe. Explore bustling cities and quiet villages, admire the stunning scenery of the Rhine River Valley, and wander the region’s world-renowned museums. Along the way, indulge in Central Europe’s delicious cuisine—Dutch cheese and fries, Alsatian choucroute, Swiss-style sausages, Kölsch beer, unique wine vinegar aperitifs and Germany’s famous white wines. Not only that, but you’ll discover Central Europe’s fascinating Jewish ties as part of the Jewish Heritage program.
Highlights
Experience the Jewish heritage in Amsterdam city tour.
Explore the architectural history and maritime heritage in Rotterdam.
Visit Arnhem and learn about its role in WWII
Tour the historic town of Speyer, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Enjoy the luxury of a full day in the “Venice of the North,” starting with a “Morning with the Masters” tour of the Hermitage Amsterdam. Afterwards, explore the city on foot. Or opt for a “Do as the Locals Do” Amsterdam walking tour or Amsterdam canal cruise. Learn about Jewish Heritage in the region with a visit to the Portuguese Synagogue and Jewish Museum. This evening, a special Captain’s Welcome Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you.
Arnhem, almost completely destroyed in WWII, has blossomed into a burgeoning Dutch city, with several museums, shop-lined streets and historic landmarks. Choose a visit to the Arnhem Airborne Museum WWII, or go on a biking tour of the Arnhem airborne cycle route.
You have an array of choices for how you wish to experience Cologne’s many treasures. Those interested in history and architecture will want to stroll through the Old Town, featuring 12 stunning Romanesque churches. Guests interested in the city’s Jewish past are welcome to explore the centuries-old mikveh and Cologne’s Jewish quarter.
Bacharach is an ancient village that appears straight out of the pages of a storybook. Enjoy a guided stroll through town and taste some locally grown Rieslings, a specialty of the region. Alternatively, join a hike that will take you past the old town walls and up to a fortified 12th-century castle.
Frankfurt is known as a financial powerhouse with soaring skyscrapers as well as traditional Old Town architecture. Explore with a walking tour led by locals, or a tour by bike. Alternatively, delve into the Jewish history of the city with a specific focused tour.
Expect the unexpected in Speyer, where ancient treasures harmoniously coexist with modern-day innovation. Join a local expert for an intriguing guided stroll through the historic old town of Speyer, famous for its vast Romanesque cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Another option is the Jewish Heritage-focused excursion to an ancient center of learning and religion in Worms.
After docking in town, you’ll have a chance to discover Strasbourg’s many charms with a choice of excursions: a guided “Do as the Locals Do” walking tour of the Petite France district, stopping to try traditional Alsatian treats along the way; a “Let’s Go” bike tour that covers a bit more ground, including the European district; or an in-depth look at the city’s rich Jewish history, which dates back an astonishing 2,000 years.
Ramble with your guide through the historic heart of Basel. Every historic square you see will hold a special charm. Explore by bike or walking tour, or opt for a history tour focusing on Jewish Heritage in Basel.
This evening, a special Captain’s Farewell Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you.
Apologies for the inconvenience. Prices for not yet published. Below per person rate based on previous season. Contact us to confirm upcoming season pricing.
Prices for are estimated based on inflation. Contact us to confirm pricing and availability for your desired departure date.
$3,999
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Classic
Magnificently appointed riverview stateroom located on the Moselle Deck (151 sq ft - 14 sq m) . Handcrafted Savoir Beds of England, built-in closet, safe, hairdryer, individual thermostat, flat TV screen, and bottled water. Marble bathroom with Asprey bath and body products, plush towels, backlit magnifying mirror, cozy bathrobes, and slippers.
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Deluxe
Sumptuously appointed riverview stateroom located on the Danube and Main Deck (151 sq ft - 14 sq m) . Handcrafted Savoir Beds of England, built-in closet, safe, hairdryer, individual thermostat, flat TV screen, and bottled water. Marble bathroom with Asprey bath and body products, plush towels, backlit magnifying mirror, cozy bathrobes, and slippers.
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French Balcony
Luxuriant appointed riverview stateroom located on the Rhine Deck (151 sq ft - 14 sq m) with a French balcony. Handcrafted Savoir Beds of England, built-in closet, safe, hairdryer, individual thermostat, flat TV screen, and bottled water. Marble bathroom with Asprey bath and body products, plush towels, backlit magnifying mirror, cozy bathrobes, and slippers.
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Suite
Lavishly appointed riverview suite located on the Rhine Deck (214 sq ft - 20 sq m) with a French balcony. Handcrafted Savoir Beds of England, built-in closet, safe, hairdryer, individual thermostat, flat TV screen, and bottled water. Marble bathroom with Hermès bath and body products, plush towels, towel warmer, waffle bathrobes, and slippers. Additional special amenities and services.
Initial deposit is 15% of cruise fare plus any additional port charges, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.
Final payment is due 130 days prior to departure by Check or credit card. All final payments by credit card may be subject to a surcharge and maximum of $20,000 charge
The trip might have been the absolute best of our lifetime (thus far). We particularly want to commend our guide Peter in the Guilin area-he was so incredibly attentive, energetic, enthusiastic-and absolutely dedicated to ensuring that our meals were 100% vegetarian.
