Home > River Cruises > Europe River Cruises > Discover the Vineyards of the Rhine & Moselle

Discover the Vineyards of the Rhine & Moselle

5.0/5 Based on 1 Reviews No Booking FeesDedicated Travel Advisor
Sold Out
 Cruise Length
15 Days
 Cruise Starts
Basel
 Cruise Finishes
Bernkastel
15 Day Discover the Vineyards of the Rhine & Moselle Itinerary (Emerald Cruises)
Countries Explored: Switzerland, France, Germany
Ship
Passengers
180
Crew
51
Launched
2022
Cruise Code
EWRM-2

Overview

Savour the finest wines in Bernkastel amid the town's majestic scenery, before embarking on a guided tour of Trier, home to beautifully preserved Roman remains. In Cochem, explore the slopes of the Moselle Valley by bike, then witness the fairytale-like Marksburg Castle in Koblenz. Rüdesheim in the Rheingau region will enchant you with its medieval architecture and rolling vineyards, whilst the spa town of Wiesbaden offers a relaxing way to end your river cruise.

Itinerary

Welcome to Basel, a medieval city bordering the Rhine. Here, you will be met at the airport and transferred to your Emerald Cruises Star-Ship. This evening, join your fellow guests for dinner on board. Please book your flight to arrive into Basel prior to 02:00 PM. (D)

Your journey through the heart of Europe will commence with a tour to Colmar, a magical place that looks as though it has been pulled from the pages of a beloved fairytale. Your included tour of the town will enable you to traverse its cobblestone lanes, passing medieval half-timbered façades and window boxes full of brightly coloured flowers. If you are feeling more active, then you may instead choose to embark on a guided bike tour from Breisach to Colmar. EmeraldACTIVE Guided bike tour to Colmar Included Excursion Guided tour of Colmar DiscoverMORE Guided tour of Freiburg with market tasting (extra expense) (B/L/D)

This morning, your Star-Ship will dock in Kehl and you will be transferred across the river to Strasbourg, a city that perfectly encapsulates the region’s medieval charm. Strasbourg’s historic buildings can be found peppering the city and are best explored via its quaint waterways, which is why we will be taking you on a canal tour through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city centre. Relax on board as you pass through the idyllic surrounds of Petite France and conclude in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Neustadt imperial quarter, where many of Strasbourg’s noteworthy buildings are based. This afternoon, enjoy free time to explore at leisure. EmeraldPLUS Canal boat tour in Strasbourg DiscoverMORE Alsace wine route with vineyard hike and tasting (extra expense) (B/L/D)

This morning, you will be transferred from where the Star-Ship is docked in Rastatt to charming Baden-Baden, a spa town known for its peaceful surrounds and the celebrities who have visited it over the last century. If you’re feeling active, then you may choose to embark on a hike to Altes Schloss, where your local guide will show you the castle’s ruins, including the dungeons and winding staircases. The panoramic views of the surrounding Black Forest region are certain to make this a truly unforgettable experience. Alternatively, you may choose to enjoy a guided walking tour of Baden-Baden, witnessing the luxurious façades of the independent boutiques and the well-manicured gardens, before entering the world-famous Baden-Baden Casino. EmeraldPLUS Entrance to the Baden-Baden Casino EmeraldACTIVE Guided hike to Altes Schloss Included Excursion Guided walking tour of Baden-Baden (B/L/D)

As you stroll down Heidelberg’s cobblestone streets, you may find yourself becoming just as entranced as the thinkers of the German Romanticism movement were. Their paintings often depict idealistic cityscapes and ruins that look like they are steeped in legends, and Heidelberg is a living representation of the scenes that they created. Today, you will have the opportunity to explore Heidelberg’s peaceful surrounds during a guided tour, starting at the Heidelberg Castle. If you are feeling more active, then you may instead choose to hike from Mount Königstuhl to Heidelberg for awe-inspiring panoramas. EmeraldACTIVE Hike from Mount Königstuhl to Heidelberg Included Excursion Guided tour of Heidelberg (B/L/D)

Koblenz is an ancient city often considered to be the gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge. The Romans originally built a city here as a stronghold, but the area is now known for its idyllic beauty, peaceful parks and areas full of colourful flowers. Today, you will be able to relax during a guided tour of the city, including a cable car ride across the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. EmeraldACTIVE Bike tour in Koblenz Included Excursion Walking tour of Koblenz and a visit to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress DiscoverMORE Moselle Valley & Cochem Castle visit (extra expense) (B/L/D)

This afternoon, you will arrive in Rüdesheim, a captivating city known for its authentic atmosphere and traditional appeal. Where cuckoo clocks, live oompah bands and Bavarian beer can be found around every corner. Your included tour will be a visit to Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet Museum; a half-timbered tower with vaulted ceilings and painted frescoes that houses one of the best collections of music boxes in the world. You will also get the opportunity to ride on the charming Winzerexpress and taste famous Rüdesheimer coffee, made with one of the most famous brandies in Germany. Included Excursion Visit to Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet Museum (B/L/D)

Today is a full day at leisure in Mainz. Your Cruise Director will be on hand to assist on you how best to spend your day. (B/D)

Famous for its mineral springs dating back to Roman times, your morning guided tour of Wiesbaden will pass by the Russian Chapel. Visit the old town, the castle and the Kurhaus, and enjoy the magnificent view over the city and the Rhine Valley. Witness some fine examples of UNESCO World Heritage-listed Wilhelmine architecture on the way to the Kochbrunnen hot spring, where you can take a sip of hot water. Included Excursion Walking tour of Wiesbaden DiscoverMORE Guided tour of Frankfurt with tasting (extra expense) (B/L/D)

Start your day with a visit to Eberbach Abbey. You’ll be amazed by the beauty of one of the best-preserved medieval monasteries in the Rheingau Region. Founded in 1136 by St. Bernard of Clairvaux (Burgundy), the monastery was one of the most active in Germany, and also boasted the largest vineyards in medieval Germany. Today, the abbey continues to make exquisite wines and offers guided tours, enabling everyone to enjoy its history and architectural splendour. It is even the setting for the season five trailer of the popular television series Game of Thrones. Alternatively, enjoy an active hike up the Niederwalddenkmal, a monument located in the Niederwald, near Rüdesheim am Rhein in Hesse. It overlooks the Rhine Valley and was built in the late 1800s to commemorate the Unification of Germany. Included Excursion Visit to Eberbach Abbey EmeraldACTIVE Hike to Niederwalddenkmal (B/L/D)

Wonderfully maintained inside and out, Marksburg Castle boasts a selection of typical interiors including the castle kitchen, the knight’s hall, the armoury and an inviting wine cellar. The attractive light-stoned walls of the castle are protected by an outer fortress and, with a single tower peering over the turrets and castle walls, it looks not unlike something you would find in a Brothers Grimm tale. Enjoy a visit to the Imperial castle in Cochem which stands majestically over the Moselle River Valley. A wonderful invitation for every history and culture enthusiast to enjoy a beautiful afternoon in one the highest castles on the Moselle River. EmeraldACTIVE Guided hike to Marksburg Castle EmeraldPLUS Cochem Castle visit with entertainment Included Excursion Visit to Marksburg castle (B/L/D)

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, as well as the town hall and its many other gems. Included Excursion Guided tour of Cochem EmeraldACTIVE Guided bike tour near Cochem (B/L/D)

In southwest Germany, near the Luxemburg border, the city of Trier is a hidden treasure often called the “Rome of the North”. During your 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. Included Excursion Guided tour of Trier DiscoverMORE Guided tour of Luxembourg (extra expense) (B/L/D)

Dating back to 3000 BC, Bernkastel is situated along the banks of the Moselle River and home to well-preserved buildings dating back to 1416. Enjoy a guided walking tour, where you will have the opportunity to stroll through the medieval marketplace with its gabled timber-framed houses, castle ruins and town gate. Or, take part in a guided bike tour of the area. Included Excursion Walking tour of Bernkastel EmeraldPLUS Wine experience in Bernkastel EmeraldACTIVE Bike tour near Bernkastel (B/L/D)

After breakfast, it’s time to say farewell to your fellow guests and disembark the ship for your transfer to the airport. Please book your flight to depart out of Bernkastel after 10:00 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.

Life Onboard Emerald Luna

Emerald Luna
Emerald Luna

Relax and unwind in complete comfort aboard Emerald Luna as you explore Europe's great rivers. Read more

You're Invited & EmeraldPLUS
You're Invited & 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

Cultural Shows & Entertainment
Cultural Shows & Entertainment

From onboard shows to local performances, there's never a dull moment during an Emerald Cruises river cruise. Read more

Sun Deck Life
Sun Deck Life

Deck games, a walking track and a place to relax and take in the views awaits on the sun deck. Read more

5.0
AVG. RATING 5.0 / 5
1 Review
5 Star
100%
4 Star
3 Star
2 Star
1 Star
The Majestic Rhine - Zurich to Frankfurt   2 , 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.

Availability Click on prices below to view cabin upgrades and details

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. Prices and trip information are correct at the time 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 Emerald Cruises. These 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.

Similar River Cruises

16 Day Discover the Treasures of the Danube (Emerald Cruises)

16 Days Bucharest Munich

Operated By: Emerald Cruises

From 18,840
Save 1,790
15 Day Christmas Markets of Europe (Emerald Cruises)

15 Days Budapest Amsterdam

Operated By: Emerald Cruises

From 6,410
Save 2,565
15 Day Discover the Rhine & Rhone Rivers (Emerald Cruises)

15 Days Amsterdam Nice

Operated By: Emerald Cruises

From 8,534
Save 3,186
21 Day Prague to Paris & Splendours of Europe (Emerald Cruises)

21 Days Prague Paris

Operated By: Emerald Cruises

From 8,677
Save 3,588

Travel Styles