Cruising the Rhine: Castles, Alps, and European Charm
Embark on a captivating Rhine Castles & Swiss Alps cruise and discover the beauty and history of the Netherlands, Germany, France, and Switzerland. From Amsterdam's picturesque canals to Cologne's UNESCO-designated cathedral, and the stunning Rhine Gorge, to the charming city of Strasbourg, this itinerary is filled with iconic landmarks, guided tours, and exciting activities. Savor local cuisine and beverages, hike through scenic vineyards, bike along the Rhine River, and explore medieval towns. In Basel, Switzerland's third-largest city, visit the medieval town hall, richly decorated market square, and exquisite patrician homes. This unforgettable journey ends with a visit to Lucerne, where you can see the Lion Monument and medieval walls and towers. Experience the best of Europe on this fascinating river cruise.
Countries: France, Germany, Netherlands, Switzerland
ITINERARY
DAY | PORT | ACTIVITIES |
|---|---|---|
1 | Amsterdam, Netherlands | Embarkation in Amsterdam (Dinner)
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2 | Amsterdam, Netherlands | Amsterdam Canal Cruise, Set Sail from Amsterdam (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
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3 | Cologne, Germany | Guided Tour of Cologne, including Cologne Cathedral and Cologne Rathaus; Local Tavern Visit to taste Kölsch beer and reibekuchen mit apfelmus; Guided Bike Ride (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
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4 | Rüdesheim, Germany | Cruise through Rhine Gorge; Wine Tasting in Rüdesheim; Niederwalddenkmal Gondola Ride; Hike or Guided Bike Tour in Rüdesheim; Visit to Siegfried's Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum or Taste Rüdesheimer coffee (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
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5 | Ludwigshafen, Germany | Choice of Four Excursions: Heidelberg Castle and Great Vat Visit or Guided Hike up Philosopher's Path; Speyer Visit; River Neckar Bike Ride to Ladenburg Visit; Free Time (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
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6 | Strasbourg, France | Panoramic Tour of Strasbourg, "La Petite France" District Walk, Cathédrale de Nôtre Dame Visit; Guided Bike Ride (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
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7 | Basel, Switzerland | Basel City Tour or Guided Bike Tour; Full-Day Excursion to Lucerne; Lion Monument and Medieval Walls and Towers Visit (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
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8 | Basel, Switzerland | Disembarkation in Basel, Switzerland (Breakfast) |
PORTS
Day 01
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Known for its picturesque canals, vibrant nightlife, and world-class museums. Some of the must-see landmarks include the Anne Frank House, the Rijksmuseum, the Van Gogh Museum, and the Royal Palace of Amsterdam.
Day 03
Cologne, Germany
Famous for its stunning Gothic cathedral, the Cologne Cathedral, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Other notable landmarks include the Cologne Rathaus (town hall), the Hohenzollern Bridge, and the Cologne Chocolate Museum.
Day 05
Ludwigshafen, Germany
Gateway to Heidelberg, a medieval city famous for its castle and the Great Vat, an enormous wine cask. Other notable landmarks in Heidelberg include the Heidelberg University Library and the Philosopher's Walk, which offers panoramic views of the city.
Day 07
Basel, Switzerland
Picturesque Swiss city located on the Rhine River. Notable landmarks include the Basel Minster, the Basel Historical Museum, and the Kunstmuseum Basel, which houses a world-renowned collection of art.
Day 02
Amsterdam, Netherlands
Take a canal cruise and admire the city's stunning architecture and scenic waterways.
Day 04
Rüdesheim, Germany
Charming winemaking town in the Rhine Gorge. Famous landmarks include the Niederwalddenkmal monument, which offers stunning views of the surrounding vineyards, and Siegfried's Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum, which houses an impressive collection of self-playing musical instruments.
Day 06
Strasbourg, France
A city located on the border between France and Germany, and its architecture and cuisine reflect both cultures. Famous landmarks include the Cathédrale de Nôtre Dame, with its famous astronomical clock, and the picturesque La Petite France district.
Day 08
Basel, Switzerland
Bid farewell to Basel and prepare for your flight home.
