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Tulips and the Rhine Itinerary
Day 1 - UK - Amsterdam (Holland)
Fly from a choice of UK regional airports to Amsterdam. On arrival, you’ll be met and transferred to your deluxe river cruise ship. Tonight, enjoy dinner on board. (D)
Day 2 - Amsterdam
Amsterdam is a fascinating city which is home to over 50 world-class museums including the Van Gogh Museum and an array of picturesque canals, quaint coffee shops and charming churches. Enjoy a visit to the iconic Keukenhof Gardens, one of the world's largest and most beautiful flower gardens and a must-visit in the Netherlands. Back on board, cruise through the Dutch countryside passing famous windmills. (B,L,D)
Day 3 - Cologne (Germany)
Today your ship cruises along the River Rhine to Cologne, one of Germany’s oldest yet most modern cities. After lunch on board, join a local guide for a tour of the Old Town with its beautiful squares, characteristic wells and of course the World Heritage-listed Gothic Cathedral, Kolner Dom. During your time at leisure, perhaps shop for handicrafts or visit a local market. (B,L,D)
Day 4 - Koblenz
Arrive in the 2000-year old town of Koblenz, situated at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers and explore the impressive Ehrenbreitstein Fortress used as a headquarters for the American military during WWII. Later, the ship cruises the dramatic Rhine Gorge past the Lorelei Rock and Pfalzgrafenstein Castle. There is an optional visit to Cochem Castle. (B,L,D)
Day 5 - Mannheim - Heidelberg
Your ship cruises upstream to the town of Mannheim, situated at the confluence of the Rhine and Neckar rivers. It has long been associated with inventions in industry including the world’s first compact diesel-powered car. From Mannheim, travel to Heidelberg by coach for a tour including a visit to the impressive castle. There is also a guided hike to Heidelberg Hill. (B,L,D)
Day 6 - Kehl - Strasbourg (France)
From Kehl transfer by coach across the river to Strasbourg, the capital of the Alsace region overlooked by the majestic Gothic Cathedrale Notre-Dame. Enjoy a guided walking tour of the medieval city centre and admire the beautiful architecture and the fascinating Astronomical Clock. The afternoon is spent at leisure. On the forward itinerary there is an optional tour of Riquewihr. (B,L,D)
Day 7 - Breisach (Germany)
Enjoy a visit to a traditional Black Forest village or join the guided hike along some beautiful Black Forest trails. Alternatively, watch an assembling of Black Forest gateau and enjoy a tasting. (B,L,D)
Day 8 - Basel (Switzerland) - UK
After breakfast, disembark your ship and transfer to the airport for your return flight to the UK. Alternatively, you can travel back on the Eurostar. (B)
Due to navigational reasons, the Captain reserves the right to modify the itinerary.