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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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)
9 Days Bucharest Budapest
Operated By: Emerald Cruises
9 Days Budapest Bucharest
Operated By: Emerald Cruises
14 Days Amsterdam Zurich
Operated By: Emerald Cruises
14 Days Copenhagen Zurich
Operated By: Emerald Cruises
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