Zurich to Berlin & The Majestic Rhine

Straddling the northernmost tip of Lake Zurich, Zurich is one of the most beloved cities in Switzerland. Today, you will be able to explore the city at leisure, perhaps taking in its delightful lakeside setting or frequenting one of its many charming cafés. Included is a restful one-night stay in Zurich.

This morning, enjoy a walking tour of Zurich before you are transferred to Lucerne, an area known for its spectacular natural setting. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure to explore Lucerne, perhaps strolling down cobblestone streets in its colourful Altstadt. Included Excursion A guided tour of Zurich (B)

The awe-inspiring natural beauty enveloping Lucerne is a true delight, and yours to discover today during a guided tour of this small city. Lucerne effortlessly reflects what most people imagine when they think of a Swiss city, with a backdrop of snow-capped mountain ranges and tree-lined boulevards cutting through the city centre. Enjoy learning about the history of Lucerne as you visit the well-preserved medieval Altstadt, Chapel Bridge and the octagonal Water Tower. Included Excursion A guided tour of Lucerne DiscoverMORE Train and cable car to Rigi - Weggis (extra expense) (B)

This morning, journey by coach through idyllic landscapes as you carve a course to the Rhine-side town of Basel. When you arrive, you will be able to board your Emerald Cruises Star-Ship, where your friendly captain and crew will be waiting to welcome you. This evening, join your fellow guests for dinner on board. (B/D)

Your journey through the heart of Europe will commence with a tour to Colmar, a magical place that looks as though it has been pulled from the pages of a beloved fairytale. Your included tour of the town will enable you to traverse its cobblestone lanes, passing medieval half-timbered façades and window boxes full of brightly coloured flowers. If you are feeling more active, then you may instead choose to embark on a guided bike tour from Breisach to Colmar. EmeraldACTIVE Guided bike tour to Colmar Included Excursion Guided tour of Colmar DiscoverMORE Guided tour of Freiburg with market tasting (extra expense) (B/L/D)

This morning, your Star-Ship will dock in Kehl and you will be transferred across the river to Strasbourg, a city that perfectly encapsulates the region’s medieval charm. Strasbourg’s historic buildings can be found peppering the city and are best explored via its quaint waterways, which is why we will be taking you on a canal tour through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city centre. Relax on board as you pass through the idyllic surrounds of Petite France and conclude in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Neustadt imperial quarter, where many of Strasbourg’s noteworthy buildings are based. This afternoon, enjoy free time to explore at leisure. EmeraldPLUS Canal boat tour in Strasbourg DiscoverMORE Alsace wine route with vineyard hike and tasting (extra expense) (B/L/D)

This morning, you will be transferred from where the Star-Ship is docked in Rastatt to charming Baden-Baden, a spa town known for its peaceful surrounds and the celebrities who have visited it over the last century. If you’re feeling active, then you may choose to embark on a hike to Altes Schloss, where your local guide will show you the castle’s ruins, including the dungeons and winding staircases. The panoramic views of the surrounding Black Forest region are certain to make this a truly unforgettable experience. Alternatively, you may choose to enjoy a guided walking tour of Baden-Baden, witnessing the luxurious façades of the independent boutiques and the well-manicured gardens, before entering the world-famous Baden-Baden Casino. EmeraldPLUS Entrance to the Baden-Baden Casino EmeraldACTIVE Guided hike to Altes Schloss Included Excursion Guided walking tour of Baden-Baden (B/L/D)

As you stroll down Heidelberg’s cobblestone streets, you may find yourself becoming just as entranced as the thinkers of the German Romanticism movement were. Their paintings often depict idealistic cityscapes and ruins that look like they are steeped in legends, and Heidelberg is a living representation of the scenes that they created. Today, you will have the opportunity to explore Heidelberg’s peaceful surrounds during a guided tour, starting at the Heidelberg Castle. If you are feeling more active, then you may instead choose to hike from Mount Königstuhl to Heidelberg for awe-inspiring panoramas. EmeraldACTIVE Hike from Mount Königstuhl to Heidelberg Included Excursion Guided tour of Heidelberg (B/L/D)

Koblenz is an ancient city often considered to be the gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge. The Romans originally built a city here as a stronghold, but the area is now known for its idyllic beauty, peaceful parks and areas full of colourful flowers. Today, you will be able to relax during a guided tour of the city, including a cable car ride across the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. EmeraldACTIVE Bike tour in Koblenz Included Excursion Walking tour of Koblenz and a visit to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress DiscoverMORE Moselle Valley & Cochem Castle visit (extra expense) (B/L/D)

This afternoon, you will arrive in Rüdesheim, a captivating city known for its authentic atmosphere and traditional appeal. Where cuckoo clocks, live oompah bands and Bavarian beer can be found around every corner. Your included tour will be a visit to Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet Museum; a half-timbered tower with vaulted ceilings and painted frescoes that houses one of the best collections of music boxes in the world. You will also get the opportunity to ride on the charming Winzerexpress and taste famous Rüdesheimer coffee, made with one of the most famous brandies in Germany. Included Excursion Visit to Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet Museum (B/L/D)

After breakfast, you will be transferred from your Star-Ship to the airport for your flight to Berlin. The German capital has much to offer, from its captivating entertainment to its historic architecture. A two-night stay in a centrally located hotel is included in your itinerary. (B)

This morning, join your local guide for a walking tour of Berlin, passing by the famous Alexanderplatz, the Brandenburg Gate and the Berlin Wall, a monument that tells of the division and reunion of the city. This afternoon, enjoy exploring Berlin at leisure, perhaps venturing into one of its chic restaurants of discovering more of its charming architecture. Included Excursion A guided tour of Berlin (B)

After breakfast, bid farewell to your fellow guests as you are transferred to the airport for your onward or homebound flight, taking memories of romantic cityscapes. (B)