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Amsterdam to Zurich & Jewels of the Rhine

5.0/5 Based on 4 Reviews No Booking FeesDedicated Cruise Advisor

Amsterdam to Zurich & Jewels of the Rhine

5.0/5 Based on 4 Reviews No Booking FeesDedicated Cruise Advisor
Amsterdam to Zurich & Jewels of the Rhine
Amsterdam to Zurich & Jewels of the Rhine
Amsterdam to Zurich & Jewels of the Rhine
New Release Fully Guided Locally Guided Coach River Cruise
Our Price From
US$6,647
Save $7,453pp
Port charges, taxes and fees included
 Cruise Length
16 Days
 Cruise Starts
Amsterdam
 Cruise Finishes
Zurich
16 Day Amsterdam to Zurich & Jewels of the Rhine Itinerary (Emerald Cruises)
Countries Explored: Holland, Germany, France, Switzerland
 Cruise Length
16 Days
 Cruise Starts
Amsterdam
 Cruise Finishes
Zurich
16 Day Amsterdam to Zurich & Jewels of the Rhine Itinerary (Emerald Cruises)
Countries Explored: Holland, Germany, France, Switzerland
Ship
Departures
Passengers
180
Crew
51
Launched
2017
Cruise Code
ECNZ-1
Ship
Departures
Passengers
180
Crew
51
Launched
2017
Cruise Code
ECNZ-1

Overview

A classic journey on the Rhine, Main, and Danube rivers promises spectacular landscapes, rich culture, and fascinating history, where world-class cities are complemented by romantic towns. Start with a two-night in Amsterdam then explore modern and quintessential Holland on a glass-top canal boat cruise through Amsterdam, before sailing through the countryside and witnessing traditional windmills. Enjoy a guided walking tour of magnificent Cologne and the juxtaposition of ancient Koblenz, continuing upstream to Heidelberg. Soak up Strasbourg’s beautiful architecture and visit Freiburg a Black Forest destination.
A classic journey on the Rhine, Main, and Danube rivers promises spectacular landscapes, rich culture, and fascinating history, where world-class cities are complemented by romantic towns. Start with a two-night in Amsterdam then explore modern and quintessential Holland on a glass-top canal boat cruise through Amsterdam, before sailing through the countryside and witnessing traditional windmills. Enjoy a guided walking tour of magnificent Cologne and the juxtaposition of ancient Koblenz, continuing upstream to Heidelberg. Soak up Strasbourg’s beautiful architecture and visit Freiburg a Black Forest destination.

Itinerary

Welcome to Amsterdam, the capital of The Netherlands famous for world-class museums, artistic heritage and elaborate canal system. You will be met at the airport and taken to your centrally located hotel, with a two-night stay included in your itinerary.

This morning, your local guide will take you on a tour of Amsterdam, introducing you to a place 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. Your carefully planned walking tour will take you to one of world's greatest museums, the Rijksmuseum, hosting a collecting of over 8000 works including those of Dutch masters Rembrandt, Vermeer and Rubens. (B)

  • Included Excursion Walking tour of Amsterdam with Rijksmuseum visit

Today, you will be transferred from your hotel to your contemporary Emerald Waterways Star-Ship. This evening, join your fellow guests for a welcome dinner on board. (B/D)

This morning you will have the chance to find out more about Rotterdam during a walking tour of this unique example of a Dutch city. Following the air raids of WWII, reconstruction efforts utilised a patchwork of architectural styles, forever altering the city’s skyline. Today, you’ll have the opportunity to explore contemporary Rotterdam, which currently boasts the tallest commercial and residential buildings in the Netherlands. The reputation as the city of high rises has historical roots, beginning with the construction of the 45-metre-high office building, the Witte Huis, which, for quite some time, was the tallest office building in Europe. Afterwards you will be sailing to Dordrecht, where you will have the opportunity to join your Activity Manager for a walk into town. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion Walking tour of Rotterdam
  • EmeraldACTIVE Walk to town with Activity Manager in Dordrecht

Welcome to Nijmegen, the Roman settlement of Noviomagus and the oldest town in the Netherlands. Join a walking tour through its centre, exploring its architectural wonders and learn more about the International Four Days Marches Nijmegen that takes place every year, welcoming tens of thousands of people. If you are feeling more active, join a bike ride along the river, embracing the unique countryside features along the Waal river. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion Nijmegen Walking tour
  • EmeraldACTIVE Guided bike tour in Nijmegen
  • DiscoverMORE Visit to Palais Het Loo (extra expense)

This morning you will arrive in Bonn – the former capital of West Germany and the birthplace of Beethoven. During your walking tour you will have the opportunity to know more about Bonn Minster, known for its Romanesque architecture with Gothic elements. Its old town is also quite a gem of historical buildings and quaint streets. Landmarks like the Altes Rathaus and Beethoven House will be some of the many architectural highlights.

Alternatively, join a bike tour in Bonn and unveil some of the city’s secrets off the beaten track. This afternoon – enjoy a smooth sailing on board your Star-Ship and relax with a view of the peaceful landscapes of the Rhine and the Moselle river. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion Walking tour of Bonn
  • EmeraldACTIVE Guided bike tour in Bonn

Dating back to 3000 BC, Bernkastel is situated along the banks of the Moselle River. Home to well-preserved buildings dating back to 1416. During your EmeraldPLUS you will have the opportunity to wander through some of the peaceful Moselle vineyards that compose this bucolic landscape and have a taste of the famous Riesling wine produced in this region. . Or get a different perspective of the region when you take part in an active hike to the Landshut Castle Ruins overlooking the Moselle. (B/L/D)

  • EmeraldPLUS Moselle vineyard hike & wine tasting
  • EmeraldACTIVE Active hike to Landshut Castle Ruins

Today, you will enjoy the enchanting town of Cochem during a guided tour of its well-preserved sites. You’ll see the remains of the historic town wall with its old fortifications, alongside the town hall and its many other gems. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion Guided tour of Cochem & Visit to Reichsburg Castle
  • EmeraldACTIVE Cycling along the Moselle
  • DiscoverMORE German Beer Garden Experience (extra expense)

In the morning, you will have the opportunity to join your Activity Manager on a hike in Sankt Goar. Although a small town, it holds the magnificent Rheinfels Castle ruins that gaze over the Moselle. Enjoy the serene sailing through the Rhine river towards Rüdesheim, where you will have the opportunity to visit the grand Schloss Johannisberg Winery as part of your EmeraldPLUS program. Set in the breathtaking Rheingau region, the legendary Schloss Johannisberg is steeped in history, cultivating exquisite wine for over 1000 years. The first Riesling winery in the world, at Schloss Johannisberg, discover a unique wine culture and fabled history during this exclusive tour. Set over 50 hectares in front of the Taunus mountains, the onsite 300-acre forest grows native oak to make the wooden barrels used for producing this exemplary wine. These extra-special barrels are then kept in the 900-year-old abbey cellar, known as ‘Bibliotheca Subterranea’, where over 25,000 precious wines are stored. Alternatively, participate in an active hike through vineyards to the historical Niederwalddenkmal Monument. (B/L/D)

  • EmeraldPLUS Wine Visit and tasting at Schloss Johannisberg
  • EmeraldACTIVE Active Hike to Niederwalddenkmal Monument

Your day will start with a guided tour of Mainz and a visit to the impressive sandstone cathedral of the tremendous Old Town with medieval market squares and 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 Guided Tour of Mainz
  • DiscoverMORE Visit to Eberbach Abbey & wine tasting (extra expense)

This morning, we’ll dock in Strasbourg, the medieval capital of France’s Alsace Region. The best way to discover Strasbourg’s charm is via its quaint waterways.

Relax as you pass through petite France, full of storybook canals and narrow lanes. Witness the covered bridges and the Vauban Dam before reaching the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Neustadt imperial quarter, where many of Strasbourg’s administrative buildings are based. This afternoon, enjoy free time to explore at leisure. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion Canal cruise Strasbourg
  • DiscoverMORE Alsatian Wine Route (extra expense)

Commence your magical morning with a tour of Colmar. As you walk down the cobblestone lanes, it’s easy to imagine the characters from the Grimm’s Fairy Tales here, façades adorned with window boxes full of colourful blooms. Alternatively, embark on a canoeing adventure on the banks of the Rhine to experience the destination from another perspective. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion Guided tour of Colmar
  • EmeraldACTIVE Canoeing on the banks of the Rhine

Welcome to Switzerland and the quaint Rhine-side town of Basel. After breakfast, you will be transferred by coach to Lucerne, including a two-night stay. (B)

Lucerne is known around the world for its spectacular setting, perfectly encapsulating a traditional Swiss city with a backdrop of snow-topped mountain ranges. Your morning will start with a guided tour of the city, touching on its well-preserved medieval Altstadt, delightful waterfront promenades and colourful buildings. (B)

  • Included Excursion A guided tour of Lucerne
  • DiscoverMORE Train & cable car ride to Rigi – Weggis (extra expense)

This morning, transfer by coach from Lucerne to the cosmopolitan city of Zurich, known for its towering church steeples, winding cobbled lanes and contemporary centre.

When you arrive, enjoy a guided tour of Zurich, followed by free time to explore its delightful lakeside setting, perhaps discovering its famous old town. (B)

  • Included Excursion Guided tour of Zurich

After breakfast, it is time to bid farewell to your fellow guests and transfer to the airport, passing a backdrop of mountains and forests on your way.

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)

Welcome to Amsterdam, the capital of The Netherlands famous for world-class museums, artistic heritage and elaborate canal system. You will be met at the airport and taken to your centrally located hotel, with a two-night stay included in your itinerary.

This morning, your local guide will take you on a tour of Amsterdam, introducing you to a place 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. Your carefully planned walking tour will take you to one of world's greatest museums, the Rijksmuseum, hosting a collecting of over 8000 works including those of Dutch masters Rembrandt, Vermeer and Rubens. (B)

  • Included Excursion Walking tour of Amsterdam with Rijksmuseum visit

Today, you will be transferred from your hotel to your contemporary Emerald Waterways Star-Ship. This evening, join your fellow guests for a welcome dinner on board. (B/D)

This morning you will have the chance to find out more about Rotterdam during a walking tour of this unique example of a Dutch city. Following the air raids of WWII, reconstruction efforts utilised a patchwork of architectural styles, forever altering the city’s skyline. Today, you’ll have the opportunity to explore contemporary Rotterdam, which currently boasts the tallest commercial and residential buildings in the Netherlands. The reputation as the city of high rises has historical roots, beginning with the construction of the 45-metre-high office building, the Witte Huis, which, for quite some time, was the tallest office building in Europe. Afterwards you will be sailing to Dordrecht, where you will have the opportunity to join your Activity Manager for a walk into town. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion Walking tour of Rotterdam
  • EmeraldACTIVE Walk to town with Activity Manager in Dordrecht

Welcome to Nijmegen, the Roman settlement of Noviomagus and the oldest town in the Netherlands. Join a walking tour through its centre, exploring its architectural wonders and learn more about the International Four Days Marches Nijmegen that takes place every year, welcoming tens of thousands of people. If you are feeling more active, join a bike ride along the river, embracing the unique countryside features along the Waal river. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion Nijmegen Walking tour
  • EmeraldACTIVE Guided bike tour in Nijmegen
  • DiscoverMORE Visit to Palais Het Loo (extra expense)

This morning you will arrive in Bonn – the former capital of West Germany and the birthplace of Beethoven. During your walking tour you will have the opportunity to know more about Bonn Minster, known for its Romanesque architecture with Gothic elements. Its old town is also quite a gem of historical buildings and quaint streets. Landmarks like the Altes Rathaus and Beethoven House will be some of the many architectural highlights.

Alternatively, join a bike tour in Bonn and unveil some of the city’s secrets off the beaten track. This afternoon – enjoy a smooth sailing on board your Star-Ship and relax with a view of the peaceful landscapes of the Rhine and the Moselle river. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion Walking tour of Bonn
  • EmeraldACTIVE Guided bike tour in Bonn

Dating back to 3000 BC, Bernkastel is situated along the banks of the Moselle River. Home to well-preserved buildings dating back to 1416. During your EmeraldPLUS you will have the opportunity to wander through some of the peaceful Moselle vineyards that compose this bucolic landscape and have a taste of the famous Riesling wine produced in this region. . Or get a different perspective of the region when you take part in an active hike to the Landshut Castle Ruins overlooking the Moselle. (B/L/D)

  • EmeraldPLUS Moselle vineyard hike & wine tasting
  • EmeraldACTIVE Active hike to Landshut Castle Ruins

Today, you will enjoy the enchanting town of Cochem during a guided tour of its well-preserved sites. You’ll see the remains of the historic town wall with its old fortifications, alongside the town hall and its many other gems. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion Guided tour of Cochem & Visit to Reichsburg Castle
  • EmeraldACTIVE Cycling along the Moselle
  • DiscoverMORE German Beer Garden Experience (extra expense)

In the morning, you will have the opportunity to join your Activity Manager on a hike in Sankt Goar. Although a small town, it holds the magnificent Rheinfels Castle ruins that gaze over the Moselle. Enjoy the serene sailing through the Rhine river towards Rüdesheim, where you will have the opportunity to visit the grand Schloss Johannisberg Winery as part of your EmeraldPLUS program. Set in the breathtaking Rheingau region, the legendary Schloss Johannisberg is steeped in history, cultivating exquisite wine for over 1000 years. The first Riesling winery in the world, at Schloss Johannisberg, discover a unique wine culture and fabled history during this exclusive tour. Set over 50 hectares in front of the Taunus mountains, the onsite 300-acre forest grows native oak to make the wooden barrels used for producing this exemplary wine. These extra-special barrels are then kept in the 900-year-old abbey cellar, known as ‘Bibliotheca Subterranea’, where over 25,000 precious wines are stored. Alternatively, participate in an active hike through vineyards to the historical Niederwalddenkmal Monument. (B/L/D)

  • EmeraldPLUS Wine Visit and tasting at Schloss Johannisberg
  • EmeraldACTIVE Active Hike to Niederwalddenkmal Monument

Your day will start with a guided tour of Mainz and a visit to the impressive sandstone cathedral of the tremendous Old Town with medieval market squares and 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 Guided Tour of Mainz
  • DiscoverMORE Visit to Eberbach Abbey & wine tasting (extra expense)

This morning, we’ll dock in Strasbourg, the medieval capital of France’s Alsace Region. The best way to discover Strasbourg’s charm is via its quaint waterways.

Relax as you pass through petite France, full of storybook canals and narrow lanes. Witness the covered bridges and the Vauban Dam before reaching the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Neustadt imperial quarter, where many of Strasbourg’s administrative buildings are based. This afternoon, enjoy free time to explore at leisure. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion Canal cruise Strasbourg
  • DiscoverMORE Alsatian Wine Route (extra expense)

Commence your magical morning with a tour of Colmar. As you walk down the cobblestone lanes, it’s easy to imagine the characters from the Grimm’s Fairy Tales here, façades adorned with window boxes full of colourful blooms. Alternatively, embark on a canoeing adventure on the banks of the Rhine to experience the destination from another perspective. (B/L/D)

  • Included Excursion Guided tour of Colmar
  • EmeraldACTIVE Canoeing on the banks of the Rhine

Welcome to Switzerland and the quaint Rhine-side town of Basel. After breakfast, you will be transferred by coach to Lucerne, including a two-night stay. (B)

Lucerne is known around the world for its spectacular setting, perfectly encapsulating a traditional Swiss city with a backdrop of snow-topped mountain ranges. Your morning will start with a guided tour of the city, touching on its well-preserved medieval Altstadt, delightful waterfront promenades and colourful buildings. (B)

  • Included Excursion A guided tour of Lucerne
  • DiscoverMORE Train & cable car ride to Rigi – Weggis (extra expense)

This morning, transfer by coach from Lucerne to the cosmopolitan city of Zurich, known for its towering church steeples, winding cobbled lanes and contemporary centre.

When you arrive, enjoy a guided tour of Zurich, followed by free time to explore its delightful lakeside setting, perhaps discovering its famous old town. (B)

  • Included Excursion Guided tour of Zurich

After breakfast, it is time to bid farewell to your fellow guests and transfer to the airport, passing a backdrop of mountains and forests on your way.

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 Destiny

Emerald Destiny
Emerald Destiny

Float along Europe's most famous waterways in relaxed luxury aboard one of Emerald Cruises Star-Ships. Read more

EmeraldPLUS
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

Europe Star-Ship Suites
Europe Star-Ship Suites

Choose from a range of suites to find the accommodation you will love on board your Emerald Star-Ship. Read more

Cruise & Tour In Style
Cruise & Tour In Style

Enjoy the best service every day from an experienced and professional crew. Read more

5.0
Average Rating 5.0 / 5
4 Reviews
5 Star
100%
4 Star
3 Star
2 Star
1 Star
European Holiday 0 , NSW, Australia, Aug 2025
Amazing Trip - booking was easy, payments tailored to our needs and all questions answered promptly. Emerald was great and the boat was everything plus more than our expectations. Overall would highly recommend Georgie and Global Journeys & Emerald Cruises. This is a must do holiday.
Great river cruise. 0 , NSW, Australia, Jun 2025
We thoroughly enjoyed our Emerald river cruise. Ship was lovely, crew were great, included excursions were adequate, and good food. I’d happily do another Emerald cruise.
Wonderful experience! 0 , QLD, Australia, Aug 2024
We had a wonderful time on our 8 day Danube Delights River cruise with Emerald. The scenery was brilliant; the food incredible and we made plenty of friends to boot! Whilst we experienced some very hot weather during our trip, we really enjoyed cooling off in the on-board pool of an afternoon. Most of the local tours guides were very good. Thanks read more to Hannah from Global Journeys for making the books so easy.
The Majestic Rhine - Zurich to Frankfurt   4 , VIC, Australia, Jun 2023
The booking went very smoothly. The trip was fabulous and I was lucky that there was continuous sunshine. The view from the luxurious ship (Emerald Luna) was best on the last part of the trip. The highlights were Lucerne, Colmar and Strasbourg. The photograph is of Cochen Castle on the Moselle River, a short and beautiful drive from Koblenz. I read more enjoyed the sights, history and the wonderful food and wine.

Dates & Pricing USD USD

Cabin Layout Options:

Select Cabin Preference:

From $6,647
From $8,150
From $11,448
Thursday 13 Aug 2026 13 Aug 26 Amsterdam
Friday 28 Aug 2026 28 Aug 26 Zurich
Details
Emerald Astra
Fly Free Economy
Exclusive Savings
River View
US$7,617
Save $5,913
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Saturday 29 May 2027 29 May 27 Amsterdam
Sunday 13 Jun 2027 13 Jun 27 Zurich
Details
Emerald Sky
Wave Offer
Exclusive Savings
River View
US$6,647
Save $7,453
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Tuesday 08 Jun 2027 08 Jun 27 Amsterdam
Wednesday 23 Jun 2027 23 Jun 27 Zurich
Details
Emerald Destiny
Wave Offer
Exclusive Savings
River View
US$6,647
Save $7,453
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
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. 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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