Legendary Rhine & Moselle & Romantic Franconia & Bavaria

Welcome to Germany. You’ll be met at the airport and then transferred to your award-winning Emerald Cruises Star-Ship in Mainz. Here, you’ll be welcomed on board by your friendly captain and crew. (D)

This morning, enjoy an active hike through verdant vineyards to the Niederwalddenkmal, a stunning monument located in the Niederwald, near Rüdesheim am Rhein, in the German state of Hesse. This historical landmark overlooks the scenic Rhine Valley and was built in the late 1800s to commemorate the Unification of Germany.

In the afternoon, visit the Schloss Johannisberg Winery in the picturesque Rheingau wine region. Famous for its stunning vineyard views and centuries of Riesling production, the world’s first Riesling winery is a must for wine lovers and those who appreciate typical vineyard landscapes. (B/L/D)

• EmeraldPLUS Visit to Schloss Johannisberg Winery
• EmeraldACTIVE Hike to Niederwalddenkmal

Start your fascinating day with a stroll through the picturesque town of Bernkastel. Founded around 3,000 B.C., Bernkastel is nestled along the banks of the Moselle River and home to well-preserved buildings that date back to 1416 A.D. Embark on a guided walking tour, where you’ll have the opportunity to stroll through the medieval marketplace which reveals timber-framed houses, castle ruins and a town gate. Alternatively, join an active hike to the Landshut Castle Ruins, majestically perched atop a rocky ledge. (B/L/D)

• Included Excursion Walking tour of Bernkastel
• EmeraldACTIVE Guided hike tour to Landshut Castle Ruins
• DiscoverMORE Wine Experience in Bernkastel (extra expense)

In southwest Germany, close to the border of Luxemburg, the city of Trier, founded by the Romans in the late 1st century B.C., is a hidden treasure and often referred to as the ‘Rome of the North’. During today’s guided tour, explore the ruins of the old city baths, a hive of activity during ancient times and the Porta Nigra, the best-preserved Roman city gate north of the Alps. (B/L/D)

• Included Excursion Guided tour of Trier

Today, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy the enchanting town of Cochem, as you join a guided tour of its well-preserved sites. You’ll witness the remains of the historic town wall with its old fortifications, as well as the town hall and many other gems. Alternatively, if you feel more active, join a guided bike tour around Cochem, where you'll cycle through scenic landscapes, lush vineyards, and charming riverside pathways that reveal the striking natural beauty of this region.

In the evening, as part of your EmeraldPLUS experience, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the Imperial Castle, which stands majestically over the Moselle River valley. This is a wonderful invitation for every history and culture enthusiast to appreciate one of the highest hill castles along the Moselle River. (B/L/D)

• Included Excursion Guided tour of Cochem
• EmeraldACTIVE Guided bike tour near Cochem
• EmeraldPLUS Cochem Castle visit with entertainment
• DiscoverMORE Grand-Prix car race experience (extra expemse)
• DiscoverMORE Moselle hike and wine-tasting at Hieronimi (extra expense)

Today, embark on a walking tour through Koblenz, a city steeped in history and brimming with fascinating landmarks. As you explore the city’s historic streets, you can observe the blend of old and new that defines this vibrant urban scape. Afterwards, enjoy a visit to a traditional beer garden, a beloved local spot in Germany. Beer gardens represent the heart of social life here, where friends and families gather to unwind and connect. The casual setting reflects a time-honoured culture that values community and camaraderie, making it the perfect place to experience the local German way of life while enjoying a refreshing beverage. (B/L/D)

• Included Excursion Koblenz walking tour and beer garden visit
• EmeraldACTIVE Guided bike tour
• DiscoverMORE Visit to Marksburg Castle (extra expense)

Your day will start with a guided tour of Mainz and a visit to the impressive sandstone cathedral of the stunning Old Town, which reveals medieval market squares and well-preserved, half-timbered houses. The town is famous as the birthplace of Johannes Gutenberg who invented the first printing press and manufactured his first books in the 15th century, including the Gutenberg Bible. (B/L/D)

• Included Excursion Walking tour of Mainz
• DiscoverMORE Gutenberg Museum visit & workshop (extra expense)

This morning after breakfast, you'll be transferred from your Emerald Cruises Star-Ship to Germany's enchanting Bavaria region and the historic city of Nuremberg. (B)

This morning, join your Tour Director on a fascinating walking tour through charming Nuremberg.

Today you will also discover the secrets of the Holy Roman Empire at Nuremberg Castle, a must-see landmark dating back to the medieval era that reveals captivating exhibits and stunning architecture. Later on, you'll be transferred to the Bavarian capital, Munich. (B)

• Included Excursion Guided city tour of Nuremberg

Today, you'll get the opportunity to experience first-hand the striking grandeur of world-famous Neuschwanstein Castle on a day trip from Munich. Explore the exquisite halls of this fairytale-like, 19th century castle and marvel at its breathtaking surroundings, perched atop a rugged hill in the foothills of the Bavarian Alps. (B)

• Included Excursion Visit to Neuschwanstein Castle

This morning after breakfast, bid a fond farewell to your fellow guests as you'll be transferred to the airport for your onward or homebound flight, leaving with memories of romantic European cityscapes and castles.

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)