Set sail on an 8-day Rhine river cruise from Amsterdam to Zurich aboard Emerald Destiny. Begin in the Netherlands with a visit to Alkmaar’s traditional cheese market or a countryside bike ride. Continue to Germany, exploring Düsseldorf’s Old Town and Cologne’s Gothic Cathedral. Walk through Koblenz, cruise the Rhine Gorge, and uncover Heidelberg’s Renaissance castle or hike from Mount Königstuhl. In France, wander Strasbourg’s charming streets and sample Alsatian flavors. In Breisach, ride through vineyards or explore Freiburg, the gateway to the Black Forest, with a tasting experience. Conclude in Zurich, taking in memories of castles, cuisine, and cultural treasures along the Rhine.
Highlights
Tour Heidelberg Castle and walk its flower-filled Renaissance gardens
Cruise through the UNESCO-listed Rhine Gorge with castle views
Sample local specialties on a culinary tour through Alsace
Explore Cologne’s Gothic Cathedral and lively historic center
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.
Upon arrival in Amsterdam, you are met at the airport and transferred to your Emerald Cruises Star-Ship, where the captain and crew provide a standard welcome.
This morning, visit Alkmaar, a town near Amsterdam known for its historic center with canals and medieval buildings. The town hosts a traditional cheese market where cheesemakers display their products and take part in auctions. Alternatively, take part in a bike tour through the surrounding countryside.
In the afternoon enjoy sailing on the Rhine River, perhaps grab a drink on the Sun Deck and watching the passing scenery before joining the welcome dinner.
Join a walking tour of Düsseldorf, 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, you arrive in Cologne, famous for its Gothic Cathedral. This afternoon, you can immerse yourself in the city's lively atmosphere, indulge in delicious local cuisine, and experience the unique charm of the city.
Included Excursion:
Walking tour of Duesseldorf
Included Excursion:
Guided tour of Cologne’s Old Town
Immerse yourself in fairy tale-like surroundings today as you cruise to Koblenz, a town with a postcard-worthy backdrop of vineyards and mountain ranges. Your included walking tour of this Roman town unveils the twin-towered façade of the Church of Our Lady, the point at which two of Europe’s great rivers meet at the German Corner.
Enjoy sailing through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge this afternoon. Here, romantic castles sit atop tree-covered canyons and half-timbered medieval villages appear suspended in time.
This morning, you discover Heidelberg. The idyllic UNESCO City of Literature has inspired the likes of Mark Twain and famed British artist William Turner. A guided tour of the town unveils its rich history, starting at the Renaissance ruins of Heidelberg Castle, where the carefully curated gardens host serene water features, sculptures, and colorful flowerbeds. If you are feeling more active, you can also join a hike that gives you fantastic views over Heidelberg. And tonight, the EmeraldPLUS invites you to join a magical private concert in a historical venue.
Included Excursion
Guided tour of Heidelberg
EmeraldACTIVE
Active hike from Mount Königstuhl to Heidelberg
This morning, you'll dock in Kehl to be transferred by coach to the picturesque town of Strasbourg, where a medieval past is yours to discover among cobbled squares surrounded by half-timbered houses.
During your included excursion, you have the opportunity to discover the heart of Alsace in Strasbourg and embark on a journey through the typical flavors of this region.
Today, as part of your incredible EmeraldPLUS programme, you visit the city of Freiburg. Considered the 'Capital of the Black Forest', Freiburg has lovely sights that amaze you. As part of your visit, you also have the opportunity to sample authentic Black Forest delicacies. If you're feeling more active, you can choose to pedal your way through Breisach on a guided bike tour.
EmeraldPLUS
Guided tour of Freiburg with tasting
EmeraldACTIVE
Guided bike tour in Breisach
Day 8: Basel | Zurich | Disembark
1 Breakfast
After breakfast, it's time to say farewell to your Star-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.
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.
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.
$6,9902-3 travelers
Please confirm embark/disembark locations before reserving flights, as this itinerary operates in reverse on alternating departures.
Rates are subject to change without notice. Book early to get the best rate.
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
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
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
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
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
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 (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
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.
Our guide and driver were very good with their knowledge and were very helpful with our questions. It was a very pleasant visit that would have been impossible to do on our own. Hotels and restaurants were fantastic. The special places we got to go to, like the kitchens, were great. Enjoyed the entire trip!
