This itinerary may travel from Basel to Amsterdam
DAY 1 – AMSTERDAM
Welcome to Amsterdam, a postcard-worthy destination of picturesque canals, cafés, and art galleries. Upon arrived in Amsterdam, you’ll be greeted at the airport and transferred to your innovative Emerald Cruises Star-Ship, where your friendly captain and crew will welcome your arrival.
Meals Included: Dinner
DAY 2 – AMSTERDAM
Enjoy a full day to explore the surrounding area.
Included Excursion: Visit to Keukenhof Gardens
This morning, you’ll visit the iconic Keukenhof Gardens, boasting 32 hectares (79 acres) of spring-flowering bulbs. Open only from March to May each year, more than seven million bulbs are planted, including 800 varieties of tulips. This area is infused with delightful aromas and a swathe of vibrant colours. Soak in the sights of tulips, hyacinths, and orchids of every colour, creating an expertly arranged pattern of beauty. You will also see statues commissioned by world-renowned artists, each adopting the annual theme.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
DAY 3 – DUSSELDORF & COLOGNE
This morning, you’ll cross the German border and arrive in the vibrant city of Düsseldorf. With its innovative architecture, high-end art scene and passion for fashion, this is one of the country’s most captivating cities.
After lunch, continue along the Rhine River to Cologne. Founded by the Romans in 50 AD, Cologne is one of the oldest cities in Germany and was almost completely rebuilt after the destruction during World War II. Look out for the twin spires of its Gothic cathedral, known locally as the Kolner Dom.
With a late departure from Cologne, you can go ashore and visit some of the city’s lively pubs or chic cocktail bars.
Included Excursion: Walking tour of Düsseldorf
Discover the vibrant city of Düsseldorf on a guided walking tour that takes you through its cultural landmarks and picturesque streets. During the tour, you can also explore the historic Altstadt and modern cityscape.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 4 – KOBLENZ
Once a Roman stronghold, Koblenz was established around 8 BC for its strategic value. Today, it’s a modern park- and flower-filled city with a unique blend of historic and contemporary architecture.
Later, you’ll cruise through the World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge, exemplifying the extraordinary beauty of an area that left philosophers and artists of the German Romanticism movement entranced. Look out for the iconic Lorelei Rock, where a beautiful siren is said to have lured sailors to their death with her song.
Included Excursion: Orientation walk of Koblenz
Join your local guide for an insightful walking tour of Koblenz, passing examples of architecture that survived the war years, including the Church of Our Lady. You’ll also have the chance to see the point at which two of Europe’s great rivers merge at the German Corner.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 5 – MANNHEIM & GERMERSHEIM
A lively university town, Mannheim is best known for its unique grid system and is often called the ‘City of Squares’ (Quadratestadt). Its most famous landmark is arguably the striking Baroque Mannheim Palace, one of the largest palaces in Europe.
Cruise onwards to Germersheim tonight for an exclusive concert at Bruchsal Palace.
Included Excursion: Guided tour of Heidelberg
Travel to nearby Heidelberg, an idyllic UNESCO City of Literature that has inspired the likes of Mark Twain and famed British artist William Turner. A guided tour of the town will unveil its rich history, starting at the Renaissance remnants of Heidelberg Castle, where carefully curated gardens are still peppered with serene water features, sculptures and colourful flowerbeds.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 6 – STRASBOURG
Today, you’ll arrive in Strasbourg, a city that promises much in the way of beautiful architecture. The World Heritage-listed Neustadt district is an iconic example of 19th-century German Imperial architecture. Strasbourg is also at the heart of the celebrated Alsace wine region.
Included Excursion: Guided tour of Strasbourg
The Neustadt district is yours to discover during your included tour, as is the Maison Kammerzell, a prime example of German Renaissance architecture. Paying homage to the region’s artistic past, Petite France is an exceptional historic quarter that looks as though it has been pulled directly from an artist’s easel.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 7 – BREISACH
Set high above the Rhine at the point where the Black Forest joins Alsace, Breisach presents a charming blend of German and French cultures. The Romanesque-Gothic St. Stephen’s church, resting on a volcanic hill, is visible from a great distance and is a notable landmark.
Included Excursion: Freiburg with Botanical Garden visit
Today, discover the enchanting city of Freiburg, nestled amidst the Black Forest. Explore its historic centre, lined with colourful half-timbered houses and a vibrant market square. Wander through the picturesque botanical garden, showcasing a diverse array of flora at their most spectacular in spring.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 8 – BASEL & ZURICH
Welcome to Switzerland and Basel. Gracing the banks of the Rhine River, Basel is known for its high concentration of museums, showcasing anything from contemporary art to scientific achievements.
Today, after breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to your Emerald Star-Ship and fellow guests as you transfer to Zurich airport, taking memories of the dazzling jewels of Europe with you.
Please book your flight to depart out of Zurich after 12:00 PM.
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 our terms and conditions for further information.
Meals Included: Breakfast
