Join your luxurious ship in Amsterdam and see the splendid wealth of scenery and rich history along the River Rhine, one of Europe's most important waterways which flows from the Swiss Alps.
Explore cosmopolitan Amsterdam before cruising upstream to Cologne, home to an impressive Gothic Cathedral which dominates the city. Stroll through the quaint village of Cochem which lies in the wine-growing region of the Moselle Valley. Here there is the option to sample the region's fine wines at a local vineyard.
Cruise along the most scenic section of the Rhine and admire the views as you pass the legendary Lorelei rock to Rudesheim. Discover the unusual city of Mannheim or take the option to visit the imposing sandstone ruins of Heidelberg Castle. Continue to Strasbourg, capital of the picturesque Alsace region and home to the European Parliament before reaching Basel, in Switzerland.
L130 Operated by Amadeus River Cruises
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Classical Rhine Itinerary
Day 1 - UK - Amsterdam (Holland)
Fly from the UK and embark your ship in Amsterdam. Enjoy a welcome cocktail with fellow guests before dinner this evening.
Day 2 - Amsterdam - Utrecht (Netherlands)
This morning, enjoy exploring Amsterdam with a relaxing canal cruise and a visit to the flower market. Perhaps take the more active option and spend time seeing the sights of Volendam and North Holland, before rejoining the ship in Utrecht. This afternoon, the vessel continues with a cruise on the Ijsselmeer, one of the largest inland freshwater lakes in Holland.
Day 3 - Cologne (Germany)
Arrive in Cologne. The city is steeped in history and draws visitors in every year. Discover the historic Old Town and admire the majestic Gothic Cathedral on an optional city walk then return to the ship and cruise south towards Cochem. There is the option to visit the Chocolate Museum in Cologne, or venture farther afield for a more active excursion to Siebengebirge National Park and the remains of Castle "Drachenfels"
Day 4 - Cochem
The ship cruises down the picturesque Moselle river, the Rhine's largest tributary before arriving in beautiful Cochem. Discover Cochem's narrow winding streets, mysterious alleyways and magnificent churches on a guided city walk followed by a tasting of some of the region's superb Riesling wines. This evening, the ship sets sail towards Koblenz.
Day 5 - Koblenz - Rudesheim
This morning, arrive in Koblenz at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers. See the key sights on an optional guided walking tour including St Castor Basilica, the Church of our Beloved Lady and the memorial at the German Corner in memory of Emperor Kaiser Wilhelm. This afternoon, relax on board as you cruise the beautiful Upper Middle Rhine Valley to Rudesheim where there is an optional city walk with a visit to the famous Music Museum. There is also the option to visit a local vineyard for a tasting of the local wines and a walk through the famous Drosselgasse.
Day 6 - Mannheim - Speyer
Mannheim is an unusual city where the streets and avenues are laid out in squares in the centre, leading to the name 'Quadratestadt'. There are many sights to explore, including the National Theater Mannheim, St Sebastian's Church and the University of Mannheim. Luisenpark is one of the most picturesque parks in Germany. Perhaps take the opportunity to visit the university city of Heidelberg, before cruising to Speyer, renowned for its Cathedral, where there is an optional afternoon city walk. Captain's Gala Dinner this evening.
Day 7 - Strasbourg (France)
This morning, arrive in Strasbourg, capital of Alsace. An optional city tour features highlights including the striking Straburger Munster cathedral and the scenic Petite France quarter which maintains its medieval charm. The city centre, known as the Grand Island, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and connected to the rest of the city via a total of 22 stone bridges. There is the option to tour the nearby town of Freiburg, a visit to the colourful market is included. After lunch, enjoy scenic cruising towards Basel. On the reverse itinerary there is an optional Alsace and wine excursion.
Day 8 - Basel (Switzerland) - UK
Disembark your ship after breakfast and transfer to the airport for the return flight to the UK.
For navigational reasons the Captain of the ship reserves the right to modify the cruise itinerary.