Discover the Seine & Danube Delights

Welcome to Paris, the enchanting capital of France, Upon arrival, you'll be met at the airport and transferred to your contemporary Star-Ship, Emerald Lumi. This evening, join your fellow guests for a welcome dinner on board. Later, your Star-Ship will depart Paris and cruise to Vernon during the night. (D)

Today, you'll visit Giverny, a picturesque village near Vernon on the banks of the Seine, where celebrated impressionist artist, Claude Monet, lived for over forty years. Experience an early morning tour of Giverny Gardens and Monet's former home until his death in 1926. Explore the beautifully preserved house, walking through the rooms where he lived and worked and the restored, elaborate gardens, which inspired some of his most iconic works. (B/L/D)

• Included Excursion In the footsteps of Claude Mone
• EmeraldACTIVE Guided e-bike tour of Giverny
• DiscoverMORE Paint like Monet (extra expense)
• DiscoverMORE Rouen by Night (extra expense)

Welcome to Rouen, a beautiful city set along the Seine and steeped in history and heritage – from Vikings and saints to renowned artists. In the morning, join a guided walk through Rouen's medieval centre. Learn how this former Roman settlement emerged as a major stronghold of Viking invaders during the 9th century. Alternatively, join a guided EmeraldACTIVE walk through Rouen, discovering more of this ‘City of a Hundred Spires.'

Later, on board your Star-Ship, gain deeper insight into history with EmeraldPLUS World War II lecture that sets the stage for your visit to the legendary D-Day beaches the following day. (B/L/D)

• Included Excursion Walking tour of Rouen
• EmeraldPLUS World War II lecture on board
• EmeraldACTIVE Active walk in Rouen
• DiscoverMORE Camembert Cheese farm visit with tasting (extra expense)

The success of the historical ‘D-Day' was a turning point in World War II, opening a crucial Western front and accelerating the defeat of Nazi Germany. Normandy's role in this extraordinary military operation makes it one of the most important regions in World War II history. Remembered today for its strategic importance, Normandy was a turning point in the war and the beginnings of liberation for occupied Europe.

Today, you'll join a remarkable full-day experience and war-themed tour, focused on this highly significant time in World War II. Visit the key sites of the historical D-Day landings by the Allied forces and subsequent battles – one of Normandy's major highlights. Experience first-hand the Normandy beaches where the Allied vessels landed, as well as the memorials and museum, which honour the bravery of those involved and their ultimate sacrifice. (B/L/D)

• Included Excursion Historic Normandy: Allied Landing Sites

Enjoy a leisurely day discovering Honfleur, a popular harbour town best known for its picturesque old port and well-preserved, timber-framed houses. Your morning walking tour presents a fascinating snapshot of Honfleur's unique character and Normandy seaside charm. Stroll around the bustling quay, enjoying the delightful views of colourful fishing boats, scenes that inspired the Impressionist artists. Explore the town's quaint streets and admire the striking St. Catherine Church, the largest wooden church in France rebuilt entirely of wood from the nearby forest.

As Honfleur is also renowned for its premium fresh seafood, your tour includes a fresh oyster tasting – savouring authentic local flavours. Alternatively, for a different pace, join an EmeraldACTIVE guided bike tour of Honfleur. (B/L/D)

• Included Excursion Walking tour of Honfleur with oyster tasting
• EmeraldACTIVE Guided bike tour of Honfleur

While enjoying a serene cruise along the River Seine, take part in an exclusive EmeraldPLUS cheese tasting on board your Star-Ship. As you take in the bucolic riverine views, relish the delicious, rich and authentic flavours that are connected to the timeless rural lands and traditions of Normandy.

In the afternoon, discover the heart of Normandy's countryside with a visit to a traditional cider farm. On this EmeraldPLUS you'll learn how the region's crisp, refreshing cider is crafted from locally-grown apples using age-old methods. Afterwards, enjoy a tasting of authentic local products that celebrate the renowned flavours of Normandy.

Alternatively, for those seeking a more energetic pace, join an EmeraldACTIVE guided hike up to Château Gaillard – the storied remnants of a medieval fortress built by Richard the Lionheart. From the clifftops, you'll be rewarded with breathtaking views across the River Seine and an area of outstanding beauty. (B/L/D)

• EmeraldPLUS Cheese tasting on board
• EmeraldPLUS Exclusive local cider farm visit with tasting
• EmeraldACTIVE Hike to Château Gaillard

With your Star-Ship docked in La Roche Guyon this morning, you're in close walking distance to Château de La Roche-Guyon, a beautifully preserved estate steeped in centuries of history. Enjoy a morning tour to immerse yourself in the rich history and serene beauty of this riverside gem.

Château de La Roche-Guyon served as a strategic stronghold during the Anglo-French Hundred Years' War and evolved as a favourite country retreat for Normandy's nobility. Originally built as a fortified castle in the 14th century and rebuilt in the 15th century, the Château majestically stands as a testament to French architectural heritage.

Wander along tranquil pathways through the meticulously maintained gardens. Within the Château, discover elegant period rooms adorned with antique furnishings and artwork – offering a rare glimpse into the refined lifestyle of past centuries.

For those seeking a more active morning experience, kayak along the Seine for a different perspective of this iconic river. (B/L/D)

• Included Excursion Visit to Château Guyon & Gardens
• EmeraldACTIVE Kayak on the Seine
• DiscoverMORE In the footsteps of Van Gogh (extra expense)

Today, after breakfast, it's time to bid farewell to your fellow guests and your luxury Emerald Star-Ship, leaving with memories of Normandy's timeless landscapes, authentic flavours and compelling historical sites. From here, you'll fly from Paris to Munich and be transferred to your Emerald Star-Ship in Regensburg to join your 8 Day Danube Delights river cruise, where your friendly captain and crew will be waiting to greet you for your continued journey.

This evening, join your fellow guests for dinner on board. (B/D)

Explore the medieval centre of Regensburg with your insightful local guide. Stroll along the cobblestone streets, passing the patrician houses of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, and stop by to sample traditional Bavarian sausages, a delicious local specialty. Alternatively, join a guided bike tour to the Walhalla monument, which towers high above the banks of the Danube. From here, you can admire a panoramic view of the river and surrounding scenic landscape. (B/L/D)

• EmeraldPLUS Walking tour of Regensburg with Bavarian sausage tasting
• EmeraldACTIVE Guided bike tour to the Walhalla monument

Today, you'll cruise into the heart of Passau, where three of Europe's main rivers converge in the shadows of an impressive castle. On your guided tour of this illustrious German city, you'll learn how it was rebuilt following fires in the 17th century. Italian architects left their mark with an array of Baroque architecture that still stands today, including St. Stephen's Cathedral. Alternatively, if you're feeling active, join a guided bike tour along the banks of the River Inn.

Enjoy exploring Passau at your own pace, before returning to your Star-Ship for lunch, followed by an afternoon of leisurely cruising the Danube River. (B/L/D)

• Included Excursion Guided tour of Passau
• EmeraldACTIVE Guided bike tour along the River Inn
• DiscoverMORE Bavarian Traditions (extra expense)

Today, you'll sail through the wondrous, UNESCO World Heritage-listed Wachau Valley. You can choose to join a guided hike to the ruins of Dürnstein Castle, offering delightful panoramic views of the surrounding medieval villages. Alternatively, if you're feeling more active, embark on a guided bike tour in Melk, cycling past terraced vineyards, castles and ruins along the way.

This afternoon, for your EmeraldPLUS experience, enjoy a guided tour of Göttweig Abbey, a true gem overlooking the Wachau Valley from a hill blanketed with vineyards and forests. part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed landscape since 2001, Göttweig Abbey is one of Austria's most important Benedictine abbeys and attracts visitors from all over the world. Built in 1083, the abbey continues to serve as a spiritual centre in the heart of Lower Austria and is run by a community of about 45 monks. Visible even from a great distance, the abbey provides panoramic views, which you can soak up during your visit here. (B/L/D)

• EmeraldPLUS Guided tour of Göttweig Abbey with wine tasting
• EmeraldACTIVE Guided bike tour along the Danube River
• EmeraldACTIVE Guided hike to Dürnstein Castle

Sweeping boulevards and world-famous art exhibitions await in Vienna, a historic city which perfectly encapsulates the opulence of the Habsburg Monarchy and their ornate Baroque palaces. For art-lovers, there's no other place like the Austrian capital, not only as the city brims with museums and artwork, but also because of the sheer diversity. Today's art tour will include a visit to the Kunsthistorisches Museum, the largest art museum in the country and one of the most important museums worldwide.

Alternatively, if you're feeling more active, embark on a guided cycling tour along the riverbanks to picturesque Danube Island. (B/L/D)

• Included Excursion Vienna art tour with a visit to the Kunsthistorisches Museum
• EmeraldACTIVE Guided bike tour to Danube Island
• DiscoverMORE Viennese evening concert (extra expense)

A charming scattering of Baroque palaces and Gothic architecture that recount tales of a turbulent communist past are yours to uncover, as you sail towards Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia. Enjoy a guided tour that uncovers the city's fascinating history, taking in the neo-Renaissance splendour of the Slovak National Theatre and the Episcopal Summer Palace.

Alternatively, embark on a guided hike to Bratislava Castle and its lovely Baroque gardens, offering the perfect backdrop to the Shakespeare festival that takes place during the summer months.

This afternoon, as part of your EmeraldPLUS experience, enjoy one of our cruise highlights: coffee and cake at the home of a local Slovakian family. Later, relish a farewell dinner with your fellow guests on board your Star-Ship. (B/L/D)

• Included Excursion Walking tour of Bratislava
• EmeraldPLUS Home-hosted coffee and cake with a Slovakian family
• EmeraldACTIVE Guided hike to Bratislava Castle
• DiscoverMORE Skoda tour of Post-Communist Bratislava (extra expense)
• DiscoverMORE Carpathian wine route (extra expense)

Welcome to Hungary and Budapest, the ‘Pearl of the Danube' and generously steeped in history and culture, where ancient architecture exists alongside contemporary buildings. Today, enjoy a guided coach tour, covering some of the highlights of Budapest and learn more about its stunning landscape and architecture, including the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city centre. The history of the Hungarian capital displays a unique blend of cultures, cuisine and vibrant lifestyle and you'll discover there is so much to take in as you pass through this vibrant city.

Alternatively, embark on a guided hike to Gellert Hill and admire the spectacular views across the Danube.

Later, as part of your EmeraldPLUS experience, enjoy a traditional Hungarian folklore show on board your Star-Ship. (B/L/D)

• Included Excursion Guided coach tour of Budapest
• EmeraldPLUS Traditional Hungarian folklore show on board
• EmeraldACTIVE Hike to Gellert Hill
• DiscoverMORE Jewish Heritage tour (extra expense)
• DiscoverMORE Excursion to Szentendre (extra expense)

This morning after breakfast, it's time to bid farewell to your fellow guests and disembark your Star-Ship for your transfer to the airport, leaving with wonderful memories of exquisite Viennese artworks, architectural masterpieces, Slovakian hospitality and the splendour of the Danube.

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.

Please note: Preview itinerary subject to change. (B)