Overview
Visit some of France and Germany’s oldest cities, from stylish Düsseldorf to resilient Cologne, resplendent with its magnificent Gothic cathedral, and read more ancient Koblenz, dating back to Roman times. Sample local delicacies in the Black Forest and visit the UNESCO City of Literature has inspired the likes of Mark Twain. Relax on board while you marvel at the breathtaking landscapes of the World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge, passing fairytale-like castles, steeply terraced vineyards and the legendary Lorelei Rock. Immersive experiences will take you to the famed spa town of Baden-Baden, through traditional German breweries and to a private concert in the opulent Bruchsal Palace.
Following your luxury river cruise, enjoy a three-day city stay in the iconic Dutch capital, Amsterdam, discovering the city’s hidden treasures on guided tours and exploring more of the city at leisure.
Itinerary
Welcome to Switzerland. You'll be greeted at Basel Airport by an Emerald Cruises representative and transferred to board your Emerald Star-Ship, where your friendly captain and crew will be waiting to greet you.
Set high above the Rhine at the point where the Black Forest joins Alsace, Breisach is a charming blend of German and French cultures. The Romanesque-Gothic St. Stephen's church is perched on a volcanic hill and visible from a great distance.
EmeraldPLUS Guided tour of Freiburg with tasting
Spectacular and historic Freiburg im Breisgau, commonly known simply as Freiburg, sits on the edge of the mountainous Black Forest in southern Germany. A photogenic old city that was founded in 1120, Freiburg lays claim to having the most sunshine in the whole country. Life in this vibrant university city focuses on the Altstadt's cobbled and arcaded Rathausplatz (City Square), lined with Gothic churches and civic buildings interspersed with buzzy cafés and bars. Enjoy a fascinating guided tour of the city and sample some delicious local delicacies during a visit to a local market, such as the famous Black Forest ham.
EmeraldACTIVE Guided e-bike tour in Breisach
For a more active experience, choose an exhilarating e-bike tour around Breisach. The route takes in the picturesque scenery between the Kaiserstuhl mountains and the river running through the woods. Once you arrive in Burkheim, take a break to enjoy some traditional Black Forest cake. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty and cultural richness of this captivating region on two wheels.
DiscoverMORE Guided tour of Colmar (extra expense)
Commence your magical morning with a guided tour of Colmar. As you walk along the quaint cobblestone lanes, it's easy to imagine the characters from the Grimm's Fairy Tales here, where half-timbered façades are adorned with window boxes full of colourful blooms. Activity Level: Easy. Duration: 5 hours
Today, you'll arrive in Strasbourg, a city shaped by both French and German influences and renowned for its fascinating history and beautiful architecture. Once a key medieval trading centre and later part of the German Empire, Strasbourg's World Heritage-listed Neustadt district showcases grand 19th-century boulevards and impressive imperial buildings. Its historic core, centred around the magnificent cathedral, reflects centuries of cultural exchange and shifting borders. Strasbourg also lies at the heart of the celebrated Alsace wine region, where charming villages and vineyard-covered hillsides are never far away.
Cruise onwards to Germersheim tonight for an exclusive concert at Bruchsal Palace.
Included Excursion Flavours of Alsace: Strasbourg walking tour with local tasting
Explore the historic streets of Strasbourg on a guided walking tour that reveals the city's rich cultural heritage. From the grand Strasbourg Cathedral to the picturesque La Petite France, you'll discover the city's fascinating landmarks and charming corners. Along the way, enjoy a delightful local tasting of regional specialties, offering a true taste of Alsace culinary traditions.
DiscoverMORE Baden Baden Spa experience (extra expense)
Escape to the heart of Germany's Black Forest for a rejuvenating day at the world-renowned Baden-Baden Spa. Famous for its healing thermal waters and elegant ambience, Baden-Baden offers an inviting blend of wellness, history and indulgence. Activity Level: Easy, Duration: 3 hours
EmeraldPLUS Evening Concert at Bruchsal Palace
Bruchsal Palace, also known as the Damiansburg, is a breathtaking Baroque Palace noted for its fine Rococo decoration. Made up of over 50 buildings, this impressive complex includes a three-winged residential building with an attached chapel, four pavilions separated by a road, some smaller utility buildings, and a pretty garden. This evening, in one of the most beautiful rooms, you're invited to attend enjoy a private classical concert within one of the most beautiful rooms. This exclusive experience blends culture, atmosphere, and refinement, an enchanting night in one of Germany's most stunning historical settings.
A lively university town, Mannheim is best known for its unique grid system and is often called the City of Squares (Quadratestadt). Its most famous landmark is the striking Baroque Mannheim Palace, one of the largest palaces in Europe.
Included Excursion Guided tour of Heidelberg
Today, travel to nearby Heidelberg, a charming UNESCO City of Literature that has inspired the likes of Mark Twain and famed British artist William Turner. A guided tour of the town will unveil its rich history, starting at the Renaissance remnants of Heidelberg Castle, where carefully curated gardens are still peppered with serene water features, sculptures and colourful flowerbeds.
EmeraldACTIVE Active hike from Mount Königstuhl to Heidelberg
Meet your local guide and take the funicular to the peak of Mount Königstuhl. Take in the breathtaking panoramic view of the Neckar Valley, then continue our journey on foot through the forest. Once out of the woods, enter the castle of Heidelberg for a short tour of the ruin before descending into the Old Town. Enjoy a brief orientation walk and some free time.
This evening, you'll cruise onwards to Rudesheim.
DiscoverMORE Rüdesheim walk with specialty coffee (extra expense)
On your visit to the charming town of Rüdesheim, take a short ride on the mini train to taste the specialty coffee of the region. A swig of Rüdesheimer coffee is a treat for wine lovers and coffee fans alike. Activity Level: Easy, Duration: 2 hours
Cruise through the World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge, exemplifying the extraordinary beauty of an area that left the philosophers and artists of the German Romanticism movement entranced. Look out for the iconic Lorelei Rock, where a beautiful siren is said to have lured sailors to their death with her song.
Once a Roman stronghold, Koblenz was established around 8 BC for its strategic value. Today, it's a modern park- and flower-filled city with a unique blend of historic and contemporary architecture. Koblenz is particularly charming in spring, with pleasant weather and the surrounding vineyards bursting into life.
Included Excursion Orientation Walk of Koblenz Join your local guide for an insightful walking tour of Koblenz, passing examples of architecture that survived the war years, including the Church of Our Lady. You'll also have the chance to see the point at which two of Europe's great rivers converge at the German Corner.
DiscoverMORE Moselle Valley & Cochem Castle visit (extra expense)
Resting on a spectacular hill 91m (299 ft) above the Moselle Valley is the medieval town of Cochem. Take a walking tour including a guided visit to the magnificent Cochem (Reichsburg) Castle, boasting impressive views of the Moselle Valley. The original 12th-century Romanesque style was replaced by King Louis XIV, who ordered his troops to destroy it in 1689. Rebuilt in 1868, he chose the neo-Gothic architecture that we know today as his family's summer residence. Activity Level: Difficult/Active, Duration: 5 hours
Continue along the Rhine River to Cologne. Founded by the Romans in 50 A.D., this is one of the oldest cities in Germany and was almost completely rebuilt after the destruction of World War II. Look out for the twin spires of its Gothic cathedral, known locally as the Kolner Dom.
Later, you'll arrive in the vibrant city of Düsseldorf. With its innovative architecture, high-end art scene and passion for fashion, Düsseldorf is one of the country's most captivating cities.
Included Excursion Guided tour of Cologne's Old Town
Join your local guide and explore the city of Cologne, including the Old Town with its beautiful squares, historic monuments and contemporary architecture. You'll conclude at the 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 the ship.
Included Excursion Walking tour of Düsseldorf
Discover the vibrant city of Düsseldorf on a guided walking tour that takes you through its cultural landmarks and scenic streets. Explore the historic Altstadt and modern cityscape.
EmeraldACTIVE Guided e-bike tour in Cologne
Join your local guide and explore Cologne on two wheels. This active tour will take you along the Rhine River, passing Cologne's northern suburbs and industrial and business areas.
DiscoverMORE German Beer Experience (extra expense)
Discover the spirited beer culture of Düsseldorf on this lively and flavourful guided tour through the city's legendary brewhouses. Activity Level: Easy, Duration: 2 hours
Beyond Amsterdam's storied canals, a gentler rhythm unfolds as you venture into the Dutch countryside, where emerald-green pastures, mirror-like waterways and centuries-old windmills paint an impossibly picturesque scene. From charming towns like Alkmaar, famed for its historic cheese-making traditions, to Waterland, where pretty, stilted villages, glassy lakes and narrow canals offer a glimpse into traditional Dutch life, discover how the Dutch have shaped their landscape for generations.
Included Excursion Excursion to Alkmaar
Step into classic Dutch charm with a visit to Alkmaar, a picturesque town known for its historic architecture, tranquil canals and world-famous cheese market. Whether you're exploring the cobbled streets lined with gabled houses or soaking in the atmosphere of lively squares, Alkmaar offers an authentic and inviting slice of the Netherlands.
EmeraldACTIVE Guided e-bike tour to Waterland
Active travellers can embark on a guided e-bike tour through the outskirts of Amsterdam to Waterland, passing quintessential Dutch villages, traditional windmills and fields that are bursting with colour and vibrancy.
DiscoverMORE Hidden Gems tour of Amsterdam (extra expense)
Explore a quieter, more authentic side of Amsterdam on this relaxed and personalised tour through the city's hidden treasures. Visit the historic Jordaan area and a charming chocolate shop for a sweet treat. Continue through some of the city's most beautiful streets to Our Lord in the Attic, a 17th-century house with a fully preserved Catholic church in its attic. Finish with a beer and snacks at a local brewery. Activity Level: Moderate, Duration: 2.5 hours
DiscoverMORE Dutch Delights (extra expense)
See the highlights of this amazing city while tasting some delicious Dutch treats. Activity Level: Easy, Duration: 3 hours
After breakfast, you'll be transferred to your centrally located hotel in Amsterdam for a delightful two-night stay in the Dutch capital. The iconic city of Amsterdam is full of surprises just waiting to be discovered around every corner. This evening, meet your fellow guests and tour director for a convivial welcome drink.
Included Excursion Visit to the Rijksmuseum
This morning, you'll explore one of the world's greatest museums, the Rijksmuseum, which houses an impressive collection of over 8,000 artworks, including those of esteemed Dutch masters, Rembrandt, Vermeer and Rubens.
Enjoy exploring the exciting Dutch capital on a guided tour. Afterwards, your tour director will be more than happy to help you plan the rest of your Amsterdam explorations during your stay.
Included Excursion Guided tour of Amsterdam
This morning, your insightful local guide will take you on a tour of Amsterdam, introducing you to a city of fascinating stories, spellbinding art and remarkable architecture. Amsterdam is considered one of the greatest small capitals in the world, where your destination is never too far away.
DiscoverMORE Tastes of Amsterdam (Dutch delights) (extra expense)
Explore the Dutch capital on foot, taking in the highlights of this iconic city while tasting some delicious Dutch treats along the way: pickled Herring, a favourite street food, a selection of tasty cheeses and mouth-watering Poffertjes (bite-sized fluffy pancakes). Activity Level: Easy, Duration: 3 hours
This morning, after breakfast, it's time to say farewell to your fellow guests as you leave your hotel and the Netherlands for your transfer to the airport, leaving with memories of a wonderful river cruise on the Rhine and Amsterdam delights.
Due to new restrictions on cruise ships at Amsterdam's city docks, your cruise is now likely to embark and/or disembark at a port outside central Amsterdam. If your ship does not have a central Amsterdam docking, Emerald Cruises will provide a central Amsterdam meeting point and transfers to your ship as required. These changes are required by local authorities and are in line with our booking terms which allow changes to berthing or dock locations and ports where operationally necessary. You will be advised of the confirmed docking location prior to departure.
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.
Trip Inclusions
- Flavours of Alsace
- Guided tour of Heidelberg
- Orientation Walk of Koblenz
- Guided tour of Cologne Old Town
- Walking tour of Düsseldorf.
- Excursion to Alkmaar
- 7 nights on board an Emerald Star-Ship
- Airport transfers to and from your Emerald Star-Ship
- The services of an Emerald Cruises cruise director
- Port taxes and charges
- All tipping and gratuities
- Guided tour of Freiburg with tasting
- Evening concert at Bruchsal Palace
- Guided e-bike tour to Waterland
- Guided e-bike tour in Cologne
- Guided e-bike tour in Breisach
- Active hike from Mount Königstuhl to Heidelberg
- 20 delectable meals including 7 breakfasts (B), 6 lunches (L), 7 dinners (D)
- Welcome and Farewell Reception & Dinner
- Complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks served with lunch and dinner
- 2 nights at a hotel in Amsterdam
- Rijksmuseum visit
- Guided tour of Amsterdam
- Transfers to and from the airport and your luxury Emerald Star-Ship
- 2 Breakfasts (B)
- Itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and specified internal flights. International flights not included.
Life On Board
From more the enticing rivers of Europe and Southeast Asia, to the vibrant coastlines of the Caribbean and Mediterranean, and inspiring landscapes of Canada and Japan, each journey is designed to connect you meaningfully with your destination. On shore, enjoy cultural encounters and interactive experiences, guided walks, bike tours and more - always with your comfort and curiosity in mind.
Relax and unwind in complete comfort aboard Emerald Sun as you explore Europe's great rivers. Read more
Authentic included adventures that take you into the cultural heart of each destination. Read more
Ignite your sense of adventure and explore a little further on foot or by bike. Read more
Enjoy the finest flavours of Europe prepared by the expert culinary team aboard your river cruise. Read more
From onboard shows to local performances, there's never a dull moment during an Emerald river cruise. Read more
Deck games, a walking track and a place to relax and take in the views awaits on the sun deck. Read more
Ship Reviews (5)
Cabins were adequate, with a reasonable ensuite and over the top room service (2x daily) - sign said to reuse towels unless on floor, but this was ignored and wet towels changed every day. The bad points far outdated the good. Number one is the noise in the dining room, which was unbearable - we left one night and skipped dinner on two occasions because of the noise. Lounge was too small to hold all guests and was noisy, either from loud music or too many people, so we avoided all entertainment, except the Zittar player, who was very good. Other entertainment was quizzes of various sorts, golf putting, singing, etc -very unsophisticated. Seats in lounge were mostly uncomfortable. Lounge also had cold water on tap (still and sparkling) and basic coffee machine (using UHT milk and OK if you add a double espresso to anything). Drinks were bar prices and packages from about $20 per day per person.
Front deck was poorly furnished with old seats and not very comfortable. Pool was OK, but small (converted to cinema at night, with mostly uninteresting movies). Sun deck was closed for nearly half the cruise due to low bridges/high water levels.
Guided tours were in big groups (30 plus), so like cats being hearded around. They have gentle walking group, but no faster walking group, so saw much more walking around independently. Little time is spent at most locations (full day only in Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest), and a lot of time is spent on the boat. No day tours by bus included, unlike on other cruises. Some day trips available at extra cost, but very expensive. Active program is aimed at those who don’t exercise very often and are slow. Bike tour guides were good, but too slow eg 5 hours to do 35km. Passengers were mainly native English speakers, with most from Australia.
Information about bus returns to boat was hard to obtain unless you went on the guided tour (always told “tour guide will tell you”) and sometimes plainly wrong. People were left in Budapest for two hours on a hot day, when they had expected to be taken back to the boat after the bus tour around town. Best the tour guide could say was “get a taxi” when there was public bus that dropped you opposite the boat and was free for over 65s. No maps provided for towns (allegedly for environmental reasons, but they had paper cups in lounge), but you could get them at information centres (but not told where they were). Would definitely not do another river cruise like this.
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Emerald Europe River Cruises (2027)
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Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct 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 the cruise-line and 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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