This 8-day voyage aboard the River Empress is an ideal holiday for castle lovers. Sail along the Rhine river and marvel at castles that were once mighty fortresses and get an insider’s look at one of the only castles on the Rhine that has never been destroyed, Marksburg Castle. Visit historic cities, including ancient Cologne and picturesque Strasbourg; stroll through the fairytale town of Rüdesheim; and taste delightful white wines in the villages where the grapes are grown. The spires of medieval churches and castles appear around each bend in the river, and vineyards climb the verdant hillsides.
Highlights
Explore the the capital of Alsatian wines, Breisach on a guided tour
Enjoy a visit the Romanesque cathedral, a UNESCO world heritage site in Speyer
Experience Koblenz, a historic town with a colorful past and eclectic architecture
Walk through Strasbourg and experience its historic core as the locals do
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.
Arrive at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol. If your cruise package includes a group arrival transfer or if you have purchased a private arrival transfer, you will be greeted by a Uniworld representative and transferred to the ship.
History buffs will enjoy an expertly led tour through Cologne’s Old Town, where three medieval gates remain standing, as does the old city hall with its Renaissance façade. Wander through the city’s historical center and take in its charming atmosphere, narrow alleyways flanked by old houses, and countless breweries. No matter how you choose to explore Old Town, you’ll also have ample free time to explore on your own.
Experience Germany’s fabled Rhine River in beautiful Rüdesheim. Enjoy a private tasting of estate-grown Rieslings at Castle Vollrads or explore Rüdesheim and the impressive Niederwald monument.
See Strasbourg on foot with an insightful local expert, where this historic town with its cobbled lanes, half-timbered homes, giant stork nests, and impossible-to-resist pastry shops will win your heart. Kehl, directly across the river from Strasbourg, will be your ship’s base while you explore the Alsatian capital. If you’re feeling adventurous, take advantage of Uniworld’s bicycles or Nordic walking sticks and explore the banks of the river.
You have the entire afternoon to see more of Strasbourg on your own.
Breisach is your gateway to the Alsatian wine road and your launching point for an excursion along the celebrated Route des Vins, which hugs the foothills of the Vosges mountain range.
Day 8: Basel | Disembark
1 Breakfast
Disembark the ship. If your cruise package includes a group departure transfer or if you have purchased a private departure transfer, you will be transferred to EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg for your flight home (unless, of course, you’ve decided to extend your trip with the post-cruise extension to lovely Lake Lucerne).
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.
$4,4992-3 travelers
Rates are dynamic and fluctuate based on capacity. Contact us for a specific quote.
Royal Suite
Luxurious riverview suite with a spacious living room, King-sized bed, fine custom linens, walk-in closets, hair dryer, safe, individual thermostat, and flat-screen TV with infotainment center
(506 sq ft - 47 sq m)
Suite
Luxurious Riverview suite, King-sized bed (convertible to 2 singles), fine custom linens, built-in closets, hair dryer, safe, individual thermostat, and a flat-screen TV with infotainment center
(253 sq ft - 23.5 sq m)
Signature French Balcony
Luxurious riverview stateroom with King-sized bed (convertible to 2 singles), fine custom linens, built-in closets, hair dryer, safe, individual thermostat, espresso machine, and a flat-screen TV with infotainment center
(253 sq ft - 23.5 sq m) *Please note that stateroom 202 is 237 sq ft (22 sq m), 16 sq ft smaller than the other Signature French Balcony staterooms
Deluxe French Balcony
Luxurious riverview stateroom with a King-sized bed (convertible to 2 singles), fine custom linens, built-in closets, hair dryer, safe, individual thermostat, espresso machine, and a flat-screen TV with infotainment center
(188 sq ft - 17.5 sq m)
French Balcony
Luxurious riverview stateroom with a King-sized bed (convertible to 2 singles), fine custom linens, built-in closets, hair dryer, safe, individual thermostat, espresso machine, and a flat-screen TV with infotainment center
(188 sq ft - 17.5 sq m)
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
Beyond expectations! Then again we weren't sure what to expect. Lovely stay at the lodge, met other like-minded travelers (many had their trips planned by Adventure Life) and the owner was a gracious hostess. It felt like you were one happy family, visiting with a favorite aunt.
Nancy Sin
TrustScore 4.9 | 306 reviews
TrustScore 4.9 of 5
Based on 306 reviews on
1 day ago
Tony and Shannon were always quick to answer my questions and requests. They booked my Upper Mississippi cruise perfectly. They made sure that my dietary needs were met which is a big deal for me. I have the utmost confidence with their assistance.
Code
2 days ago
Third trip we have book with Adventure Life. Like the last two, we have had a quick response to all inquires
Carol Borland
2 days ago
Angela was fantastic! She was thoughtful, helpful, and prompt in her responses without being intrusive. She accommodated our large group and was genuinely excited for us when it all worked out. Can't say enough good things! This is our second trip booking through Adventure Life and we will definitely do it again.
Emily
3 days ago
Jessica was extremely helpful and generous with her time. She was very responsive to our questions and comments and in a very timely fashion. She worked with us in partnership to plan a trip specifically for us and our wants and needs.
Linda Coleman
3 days ago
Mary Curry found right trip for my budget and the best date that I liked. She made
that reservation when other company's agent could not do it.
Thank you so much!
