Tulips & the Rhine

Welcome to Amsterdam. Here, you will be met at the airport by your friendly Emerald Cruises representative and transferred to your contemporary Star-Ship, where a quintessentially Dutch adventure awaits. (D)

This morning, you’ll visit the iconic Keukenhof Gardens. Boasting 32 hectares of spring-flowering bulbs, this scenic area is infused with delightful aromas and a swathe of vibrant colours. Soak in sights of tulips, hyacinths and orchids of every colour, creating an expertly arranged pattern of natural beauty. You will also have the opportunity to see statues that have been commissioned by artists from around the world, each adopting the annual theme. Included Excursion Visit to Keukenhof Gardens (B/L/D)

Once the ancient Roman settlement of Colonia, Cologne is bursting with ancient architecture. Your included walking tour of the city will touch on the historical charm of its Old Town, and you will have the opportunity to traverse rustic alleyways, visit iconic monuments and see how archaeologists have uncovered a Jewish Quarter that can be dated back to the 13th century. As part of your day, you will also explore Cologne Botanical Gardens. Established in the 19th century, it is visited by more than a million people every year. Included Excursion Guided tour of Cologne's Old Town & a visit to the Botanical Gardens DiscoverMORE Visit to Eau de Cologne museum (extra expense) (B/L/D)

Once a Roman stronghold desired for its strategic value, Koblenz is now a city with a unique blend of historic and contemporary architecture. Today, 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 will also have the chance to see the point at which two of Europe's great rivers meet at the German Corner and Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, one of the largest preserved fortresses in Europe.

Later, we'll cruise through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge, exemplifying the extraordinary beauty of an area that left the philosophers and artists of the German Romanticism movement entranced. Included Excursion Orientation walk of Koblenz & a visit to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress DiscoverMORE A Moselle Valley & Cochem Castle visit (extra expense) (B/L/D)

Schwetzingen Palace is famous for the beauty and harmony of its gardens. Remarkably, the original design, in all its diversity, survives to this day. Besides the palace interior, you will also visit the Palace Gardens which are a cultural heritage site of European significance with more than 100 sculptures scattered throughout this wonderful, and at times surprising, landscape. Alternatively, you can embark on an active journey to the quaint wellness town of Bad-Dürkheim for a hike through the beautiful vineyards. EmeraldPLUS Visit to Schwetzingen Palace & Gardens EmeraldACTIVE Guided vineyard hike in Bad-Dürkheim DiscoverMORE Evening concert at Bruchsal Palace (extra expense) (B/L/D)

Dock in Kehl and be transferred to Strasbourg, a city that promises much in the way of beautiful architecture. The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Neustadt district is particularly iconic, perfectly encapsulating the Rhineland. The Neustadt district is yours to discover today during your included tour, as is the Maison Kammerzell, a prime example of German Renaissance architecture. Paying homage to the region's artistic past, Petite France is an exceptional historic quarter that looks as though it has been pulled directly from an artist's easel. Included Excursion Guided tour of Strasbourg DiscoverMORE Excursion to Riquewihr (extra expense) (B/L/D)

Today you will experience the tale of two cities divided by the Rhine, Breisach (Germany) and Neuf-Brisach (France). During your guided visit to these two wonderful gems on the Rhine River, you'll pass by the main sights and attractions, one of which is the UNESCO World Heritage-listed fortress overlooking Neuf Brisach. EmeraldPLUS A tale of two cities divided by the Rhine EmeraldACTIVE Guided bike tour in Breisach (B/L/D)

Welcome to Switzerland. Basel graces the banks of the Rhine River and is known for its high concentration of museums, showcasing everything from contemporary art to scientific achievements. After breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to your fellow guests as you transfer to the airport, taking memories infused with vibrant tulip gardens with you. Please book your flight to depart out of Zurich after 11:30 AM. 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)