Rhine-Main Discovery

5.0/5 Based on 2 Reviews No Booking FeesDedicated Travel Advisor
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 Cruise Length
8 Days
 Cruise Starts
Amsterdam
 Cruise Finishes
Nuremberg
8 Day Rhine-Main Discovery Itinerary (Emerald Cruises)
Countries Explored: Holland, Germany
Ship
Passengers
180
Crew
51
Launched
2015
Cruise Code
EANU-1

Overview

Embark on an 7 night, 8 day European river cruise aboard the luxurious Emerald Cruises Star-Ship, beginning in the captivating city of Amsterdam. Spend your days exploring historic landmarks, from the winding canals of Amsterdam to Cologne's iconic cathedral, and revel in exquisite onboard dining experiences. Traverse the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge, admire medieval Bavarian architecture in Miltenberg and Wertheim, and immerse yourself in the artistic legacy of Würzburg.

The itinerary also offers optional active excursions, such as a bike tour to Waterland and a hike to...read more Niederwalddenkmal. As you sail through the scenic waterways of the Rhine and Main rivers, you'll experience a unique blend of leisure and exploration, wrapped up with exclusive cultural experiences like a glassblowing presentation in Wertheim. Your voyage culminates in the historic city of Nuremberg, leaving you enriched and inspired.

Itinerary

Welcome to Amsterdam, a postcard-worthy destination of picturesque canals, cafés and art galleries. Here, you 'll be met at the airport and transferred to your luxurious Emerald Cruises Star-Ship. After boarding, you can enjoy some time to explore the cobbled streets and gabled houses at leisure. This evening, join your fellow guests for dinner on board. (D)

This morning, explore the Dutch Golden Age as you board a glass top canal boat cruise to explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed canal system, or enjoy a guided bike tour to Waterland. Both excellent ways to experience the city in all its authenticity, take to its charming waterways, passing iconic buildings and elegant merchant’s residences that reflect a time when Amsterdam was one of the most lucrative ports in the world. If you are feeling more active, then explore on two wheels, cycling alongside a backdrop of historical villages and traditional windmills. Upon returning to your ship, your first day of sailing will take you through the Dutch countryside to the Rhine River.

  • EmeraldACTIVE Guided bike tour to Waterland
  • Included Excursion Canal cruise (B/L/D)

Founded by the Romans in 50 AD, the cathedral city of Cologne is one of the oldest cities in Germany and the largest on the Rhine. The historic capital of the Rhineland, this illustrious city has been generously peppered with ancient architecture, from Roman ruins to medieval structures, despite much of the inner city being completely destroyed during WWII. Join your local guide and explore the city, including the Old Town with its beautiful squares, historic monuments and contemporary architecture. Your tour will conclude at the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cologne Cathedral, whose filigree twin towers form an iconic part of the skyline. During your free time, shop for trinkets or explore further before returning to your ship.

  • Included Excursion Guided tour of Cologne’s Old Town (B/L/D)

Today’s cruising will be a highlight of your trip, as we meander through the fairytale-like surrounds of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge. Hilltop castles and fortresses will be yours to admire as we sail. We will pass the infamous Lorelai Rock, where sailors are said to have been lured onto treacherous rocks by an enchanting siren, and the impressive Pfalzgrafenstein Castle, a former stronghold. This afternoon, arrive in Rüdesheim, a town with a vibrant wine-growing heritage. You will have the choice of either riding on the Winzerexpress and visiting Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet Museum or, if you're feeling active, taking an active hike to Niederwalddenkmal.

  • EmeraldACTIVE Hike to Niederwalddenkmal
  • Included Excursion Visit to Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet Museum (B/L/D)

Welcome to Miltenberg, a picturesque village on the Main River, boasting an inimitable feeling of medieval Bavaria with its 15th century half-timbered buildings. On your included walking tour, stroll down the cobblestone streets, lined with these colourful houses and view the Gothic Merchant Hall, an impressive symbol of past affluence. Alternatively, enjoy an active walk through the forest to Mildenburg Castle. This iconic landmark now houses a wonderful collection of contemporary art and old masters. Later, we will venture to the charming town of Wertheim where, as part of your EmeraldPLUS programme, you will have an exclusive glassblowing presentation at the Glass Art Museum.

  • EmeraldPLUS Exclusive visit to the Glass Art Museum in Wertheim with presentation
  • EmeraldACTIVE Active walk to Mildenburg Castle
  • Included Excursion Guided tour of Miltenberg
  • DiscoverMORE Vineyard visit & Franconian wine (extra expense) (B/L/D)

Known as the “Pearl of the Romantic Road”, Würzburg, is the centre for grape-growing, the product of the sloping vineyard-laden hills which surround the former capital of Franconia. The architects behind the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Würzburg Residence drew inspiration from a spectrum of different styles, including Viennese Baroque and secular features from Italy, but it was heavily damaged during WWII. Enjoy learning about how this impressive building was restored to its former glory on a guided tour.

  • Included Excursion Walking tour of Würzburg and a visit to the Bishops Residence
  • DiscoverMORE Excursion to Rothenburg (extra expense) (B/L/D)

This morning, relax on the Sun Deck with a drink in hand or witness the beauty of Europe’s waterways from the plush surrounds of your cabin as we cruise to Bamberg. The UNESCO World Heritage-listed town boasts one of the largest medieval centres in Europe, with around 2,400 listed buildings gracing its streets. Feel the magic of the past as you explore the city with your local guide, marvelling at the opulence of the New Residence, once resided in by the prince bishops and now home to a plethora of old German and Baroque paintings from the Bavarian State collection. Enjoy a tranquil stroll around the Rose Garden.

  • Included Excursion Guided tour of Bamberg (B/L/D)

After breakfast, it's time to say farewell to your fellow guests and disembark the ship for your transfer to the airport, taking memories of the delightful Rhine and Main rivers with you. Please book your flight to depart out of Nuremberg 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. (B)

Life Onboard Emerald Dawn

Emerald Dawn
Emerald Dawn

Indulge in exquisite first class dining and amenities when you take a European river cruise on Emerald Dawn. Read more

You're Invited & EmeraldPLUS
You're Invited & EmeraldPLUS

Authentic included adventures that take you into the cultural heart of each destination. Read more

EmeraldACTIVE
EmeraldACTIVE

Ignite your sense of adventure and explore a little further on foot or by bike. Read more

Five Star Dining On Board
Five Star Dining On Board

Enjoy the finest flavours of Europe prepared by the expert culinary team aboard your river cruise. Read more

Cultural Shows & Entertainment
Cultural Shows & Entertainment

From onboard shows to local performances, there's never a dull moment during an Emerald Cruises river cruise. Read more

Wellness and Beauty
Wellness and Beauty

Pamper and relax with a massage or facial and recharge with a yoga class on the sun deck. Read more

Trip Reviews (2) Most Recent 'Rhine-Main Discovery' Reviews

5.0
AVG. RATING 5.0 / 5
2 Reviews
5 Star
100%
4 Star
3 Star
2 Star
1 Star
Christmas Markets on the Rhine 3 , Christchurch, New Zealand, Dec 2022
We made new friends and took home many wonderful memories. From the hotel on arrival in Amsterdam to the hotel at the end in Basel, the whole trip was supremely organized. The crew onboard were very good at their job and clearly enjoyed what they do. Nothing was a problem and the smaller number on board a river boat meant we could be alone if we wanted ...read more or part of a group when we wanted. The food was outstanding.
The Best Christmas Ever 1 , Christchurch, New Zealand, Dec 2022
We made some wonderful friends, had lots of Christmas cheer and it was so easy every day. Emerald Cruises - your staff are the best. Nothing was a problem and everyone was helpful and happy. I can not believe how much Christmas we packed into 8 days!

Availability Click on prices below to view cabin upgrades and details

Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Prices and trip information are correct at the time at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Emerald Cruises. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Emerald Cruises. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

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