Depart USA on September 29 and set sail on September 30
Monday, September 30
BASEL, SWITZERLAND – EMBARKATION
Embark your ship in Basel for your Rhine Castles & Swiss Alps cruise.
Tuesday, October 1
BASEL – LAKE LUCERNE, SWITZERLAND
Enjoy getting to know Basel, Switzerland’s third largest city. Long an important university, banking and trade center, Basel’s glorious past is still evident in its medieval town hall, richly decorated market square and exquisite 18th-century patrician homes. Tour the city by foot or on a guided bike tour that takes you through three countries: Switzerland, France, and Germany. Alternatively, go on a full-day excursion to Lake Lucerne, or opt for one of the morning excursions and visit Lake Lucerne in the afternoon. With either Lake Lucerne excursion, you’ll have the opportunity to see its Lion Monument – the figure of a dying lion carved into a hillside in memory of the Swiss Guards massacred during the French Revolution in 1792 – which Mark Twain described as “the most mournful and moving piece of stone in the world.” You’ll also see Lake Lucerne’s spectacular medieval walls and towers, dating back to the 13th century.
Morning Excursion Options
- Basel City Tour
- Three Countries Bike Tour
Afternoon Excursion Options
- Half-Day Lake Lucerne Tour
All Day Excursion Options
- Full-Day Lake Lucerne Excursion
Excursion Descriptions
Basel City Tour (1 hour 45 mins)
Overview – Enjoy a highlights tour of Basel, Switzerland’s third largest city. Long an important university, banking and trade center, Basel’s glorious past is still evident in Old Town and exquisite 18th-century patrician homes. Your guided walking tour will introduce you to some of Basel’s landmark sites. Be guided down Freie Strasse, the city’s main shopping street where you’ll find everything from high-end shops to souvenirs.
What you will see – Steinenberg, Basler Munster, Museum der Kulturen, Freie Strasse
Three Countries Bike Tour (4 hours 30 mins)
Overview – One of Switzerland’s most cosmopolitan cities, Basel is uniquely positioned near the borders of both France and Germany, giving active adventurers the rare opportunity to visit three countries during one spectacular bike ride! Feel the rush of accomplishing this feat as you stop to take photos in Switzerland, France and Germany while your guide explains some history of the region as well as how life differs across each country line.
What you will see – St. Johann, St. Louis, Tripoint, Museum Tinguely, Cathedral, Oldest Bridge “Mittlere Brücke“
Lucerne Excursion (Afternoon Half-day)
Overview – Lucerne is an alluring city that boasts nine towers dating back to 1386, one with a clock that ceremoniously chimes a minute before the rest. Enjoy a walking tour beneath its many towers and spires, admiring its cobblestone streets, squares with fountains and frescoed buildings. You’ll spot the medieval Chapel Bridge, the symbol of the city, and one of the oldest wooden bridges in Europe, which features paintings depicting the city’s rich history within the interior eaves of its roof.
What you will see – Schwanenplatz, Chapel Bridge, Jesuit Church, SpreuerBridge, Weinmarkt, Fritschi Fountain
Lucerne Excursion (Full-day, 7 hours 15 mins)
Overview – Set against the backdrop of the Alps, Lucerne fills the heart with wanderlust and awe. Upon your arrival to this beautiful city, you will visit its iconic Lion Monument, which depicts the figure of a dying lion carved into a hillside. Designed in memorial of Swiss soldiers who lost their lives during the French Revolution, this monument was described by the American writer Mark Twain as “the most mournful and moving piece of stone in the world.” After paying your respects at the monument, enjoy a walking tour of Lucerne, admiring its cobblestone streets, squares with fountains and frescoed buildings. You’ll also be guided to the medieval Chapel Bridge, the symbol of the city, and one of the oldest wooden bridges in Europe, which features paintings depicting the city’s rich history within the interior eaves of its roof.
What you will see – Lion Monument, Schwanenplatz, Chapel Bridge, Jesuit Church, SpreuerBridge, Weinmarkt, Fritschi Fountain
Wednesday, October 2
STRASBOURG, FRANCE
Strasbourg offers flavors of both France and Germany because of its borderline location. Enjoy a panoramic tour past the stunning Parc de l’Orangerie, the European Parliament and the Place de la République before walking through its iconic “La Petite France” district, lifted straight from the pages of a fairytale. Wander through charming streets past the Cathédrale de Nôtre Dame with its famous astronomical clock. Alternatively, take a guided bike ride through the city and Parc de l’Orangerie.
Morning Excursion Options
- The Gem of Alsace Tour (Morning Departure)
- The Gem of Alsace Tour (Late Start Departure)
- Strasbourg Bike Tour
Excursion Descriptions
The Gem of Alsace Tour (4 hours)
Overview – Enjoy the sights of Strasbourg as we pass the European Union Parliament and the enchanting Orangerie, the town’s oldest park. You will also have a chance to discover Strasbourg’s quaint ‘Petite-France,’ a small area of medieval half-timbered houses and Baroque sandstone buildings located on the Grande Ile (Main Island), where the river Ils is split into a number of cascading canals. Your tour also includes the famous Cathedrale de Notre Dame (Strasbourg Cathedral).
What you will see – Strasbourg Cathedral, Orangerie, European Parliament, Place de la Republique, Petite-France
The Gem of Alsace Tour – Late Starter (3 hours)
Overview – Enjoy additional time this morning for a workout, a leisurely meal, or an extra hour or two of sleep, then join us on a guided walking tour of Strasbourg, France. Starting from the Place de la Republique, you’ll learn more about this enchanting Alsatian city as you stroll through its picturesque streets. Along the way, you’ll admire the historic architecture along Place Broglie and marvel at the iconic Strasbourg Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece that looms majestically over the city. Afterward, enjoy some free time to explore on your own before returning to the ship.
What you will see – Strasbourg Cathedral, Orangerie, European Parliament, Place de la Republique, Petite-France
Strasbourg Bike Tour (3 hours 30 mins)
Overview – Pedal through one of the most bicycle-friendly cities in Europe and admire the blend of German and French architectural styles. Follow your guide past the Orangerie, the town´s largest park, considered a place of “beauty and relaxation.” Continue on to the European Quarter, seat of the European Parliament and to the Strasbourg Cathedral. You will travel 13 miles. This ride is as exhilarating as it is scenic.
What you will see – Orangerie, European Parliament, Strasbourg Cathedral
Thursday, October 3
LUDWIGSHAFEN, GERMANY (Morning)
RÜDESHEIM, GERMANY (Afternoon)
Ludwigshafen is your gateway to a choice of four excursions. Visit Heidelberg, the perfectly preserved medieval city nestled in the Neckar River Valley along Germany’s Castle Road. Discover the iconic red sandstone Heidelberg Castle and Great Vat, an 18th-century, 49,000-gallon wine cask. For a more active adventure while in Heidelberg, join a guided hike up the Philosopher’s Path, aptly named during the Romantic Period, and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Alternatively, you can visit one of Germany’s oldest cities, Speyer, known for the largest Romanesque cathedral in Europe—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—and the medieval Old Gate, Altpörtel. Or pedal along the river Neckar to the picturesque medieval city center of Ladenburg and enjoy some free time to explore the shops. Later in the day, cruise to the charming village of Rüdesheim and let Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum charm you with its remarkable collection of self-playing musical instruments; or taste one of the town’s special delights, Rüdesheimer coffee, ceremoniously made with brandy, coffee and whipped cream.
Morning Excursion Options
- Romantic Heidelberg Excursion
- Secrets of Speyer Tour
- Heidelberg Philosopher’s Path hike
- Ladenburg Bike Tour
Afternoon Excursion Options in Rudeseim
- Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet
- Rüdesheimer Coffee
Excursion Descriptions
“Romantic Heidelberg” Excursion (4 hours 30 mins)
Overview – Your excursion begins by motorcoach to Heidelberg, one of Germany’s oldest university towns. Enjoy time at the Heidelberg Castle, nestled into the hillside 300 feet above the old downtown. Gaze at the breathtaking view of the Neckar River Valley, picturesque Old Stone Bridge and Heidelberg below. While at the castle, be sure to get a glimpse of the Great Vat, a wine cask from the 18th century that can hold 49,000 gallons of wine! We have also arranged for a walking tour of the old city to give you your bearings before enjoying some free time to explore on your own.
What you will see – Heidelberg Castle, The Great Vat, Old Stone Bridge
“Secrets of Speyer” Tour (4 hours)
Overview – Discover the intrigue of Speyer, one of Germany’s oldest cities. Highlights of your walking tour include the city’s Old Town, churches and the Altportel, a 13th-century gate tower. You will also encounter the UNESCO-designated Speyer Cathedral, the largest and most important Romanesque church in Europe, and the elegant facade of the Old Mint, where currency was once issued. In your free time, you might choose to visit the Technik Museum featuring exhibits of vintage cars, military aircraft and even a submarine.
What you will see – UNESCO World Heritage Site – “Speyer Cathedral”, Old Town, Rathaus, Old Mint, Altportel (Old Gate)
Heidelberg Philosopher’s Path Hike (4 hours 30 min)
Overview – Nestled in the Heiligenberg Mountain high above Heidelberg there lies a historic and romantic stretch known as the Philosopher’s Path, rumored to have been a favorite wandering spot of great thinkers throughout the centuries. This hike offers fabulous views of Heidelberg across the Neckar River and the surrounding beauty of the Neckar Valley below. Expect to hike 5 miles, so good hiking shoes are required.
What you will see – Scenic views of Heidelberg & Neckar Valley
Ladenburg Bike Tour (4 hours)
Overview – This beautiful route traverses the shores of the river Neckar, ultimately arriving in the medieval town of Ladenburg. Ladenburg’s history dates back to Celtic and Roman ages, while its charming and picturesque city center dates back to the Late Middle Ages. During a cycling break, enjoy some free time to explore the shops and admire the architecture of the quaint Marktplatz (market place).
What you will see – Medieval Ladenburg, Shores of the river Neckar
Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet (1 hour 30 mins)
Overview – Get your eyes and ears ready for a whimsical adventure through Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet. The first museum collection of automated musical instruments in Germany, this unique space houses a truly epic assortment of approximately 350 robotic and self-playing musical instruments from centuries past, from tiny music boxes to gramophones to player pianos. Bernhard Dufner’s band of 27 automatic dolls is part of this unusual collection, the largest doll automation calliope ever built.
What you will see – Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet
Rüdesheimer Coffee (1 hour 30 mins)
Overview – Nothing hits the spot like a cup of delicious Rüdesheimer coffee, made with strong coffee, locally distilled brandy, chocolate flakes and whipped cream and served in an authentic Rüdesheimer coffee mug and saucer. While in Rüdesheim, you’ll be treated to a cup of this popular brew at a local cafe.
What you will see – Local Cafe
Friday, October 4
RÜDESHEIM, GERMANY
Join a wine tasting to discover the flavors of the town’s iconic vineyards and drink up the stunning views by soaring high above the vineyards with a gondola ride to the Niederwalddenkmal. For a more active adventure, hike through the town’s beautiful vineyards or join a guided bike tour along the scenic Rhine River. Later in the day, cruise through the captivating UNESCO-designated Rhine Gorge, the most stunningly beautiful stretch of the river before reaching Lahnstein, where you will enjoy a unique evening visit at Lahneck Castle.
Morning Excursion Options
- Rüdesheim Gondola Ride and Wine Tasting
- Vineyard Hike
- Guided Bike Tour of the Rheingau
MAKE SURE YOU ARE ON DECK AS YOU TRAVEL TO LAHNSTEIN – CASTLES ALONG THE RHINE SCENIC CRUISING IN THE RHINE
Afternoon Excursion Options in Lahnstein
- Unique Lahneck Castle Visit
Excursion Descriptions
Rüdesheim Gondola Ride and Wine Tasting (3 hours)
Overview – Embark on a peaceful ride over the vineyards while on Rüdesheim’s gondola. Once you have arrived at the summit, you will have free time to explore and see the Niederwalddenkmal – a monument inaugurated in 1883 to represent the union of all Germans. You will also savor a wine tasting at the Bassenheimer Hof, where you will sample its specialty Riesling wines.
What you will see – Local Winery, Niederwalddenkmal
Vineyard Hike (3 hours)
Overview – Revel in a scenic hike through the vineyards above the Rhine River. Stride through Rüdesheim and up into the surrounding vineyards where you will take in stunning views of the town below. The hike continues through the vineyards until we come to see the Nahe River with its Roman Bridge, marking the beginning of the Rhine Valley. On our way back to the ship, we descend out of the vineyards enjoying views of Bromserburg Castle and walking through the picturesque little town of Rüdesheim. You will hike 6 miles.
What you will see – Vineyards, Views over the Rhine, Abbey of St. Hildegardis, Ehrenfels Castle
Guided Bike Tour of the Rheingau (3 hours)
Overview – Another choice today is to take a guided, 15-mile bike tour along the Rhine Valley, riding between the Rheingau hills and the Rhine River. Glide along Rüdesheim’s riverfront, admiring the steeply terraced vineyard landscape and the famous Schloss Johannisberg castle winery.
What you will see – Schloss Johannisberg, Schloss Vollrads, Vineyards, Abbey St. Hildegard
Unique Lahneck Castle Visit (1 hour 45 minutes)
Overview – Perched atop a steep rock hill above the confluence of the Lahn River and the Rhine, Lahneck Castle is a 13th-century medieval fortress in the riverside town of Lahnstein. There are a treasure trove of legends surrounding this castle, some including the Archbishop of Mainz and the twelve Knights Templar. We will hear these stories and more on our guided tour inside this historic castle. Plus, enjoy some free time to explore the grounds on your own.
What you will see – Burg Lahneck
Saturday, October 5
COLOGNE, GERMANY
Enjoy cruising to Cologne. Join a guided tour through the Old Town and explore the UNESCO-designated Cologne Cathedral, one of Germany’s most revered Gothic masterpieces. Continue to the Cologne Rathaus, Germany’s oldest town hall, the Overstolzenhaus, and the Festival Hall. For a different view, visit a local tavern to taste its famous Kölsch beer, only made in Cologne, and reibekuchen mit apfelmus, potato pancakes typically served with applesauce. Active adventurists will want to join a guided bike ride along the Rhine and through the historic Stadtgarten.
Excursion Options
- Cologne Walking Tour & Kölsch Beer Tasting
- Cologne Cathedral Architecture Tour
- Cologne Bike Tour
Excursion Descriptions
Cologne Walking Tour & Kölsch Beer Tasting (3 hours)
Overview – With a 2,000-year history of continuous habitation, Cologne is known for its charming Old Town and its fabled 13th-century Gothic Cathedral. Your guided tour will take you on a stroll through the Old Town where you will see such sites as the Cologne Rathaus, Germany’s oldest town hall and the Cologne Cathedral. You’ll also be treated to a glass of Kölsch beer at a local tavern located near the city’s majestic cathedral. A specialty beer brewed exclusively in Cologne, Kölsch is known for its bright yellow hue and prominent hoppiness.
What you will see – Heumarkt, Rathaus, Alter Markt, UNESCO World Heritage Site – ‘Cologne Cathedral’, Local Tavern
Cologne Cathedral Architecture Tour (2 hours 30 mins)
Overview – Examine the historic architectural styles and religious elements on display throughout the Cologne Cathedral during a guided tour. This informative excursion will walk you through some aspects of the Christian ceremonies that have taken place in this special building. You will also enjoy the chance to visit the Cathedral Treasury and see the significant items showcased there before returning to the ship.
What you will see – Tower Hall, Ambulatory, Medieval sacristan crypt
Cologne Bike Tour (3 hours)
Overview – An alternate way to explore Cologne is by bicycle. Along with your guide, cycle 9 miles through the Eigelstein Torburg, the turreted medieval town gate of Cologne. Enjoy panoramic views of the Cologne Cathedral from Herkules Bridge, and pedal through a beautiful park in the south of Cologne before returning back towards the historic old town along the Rhine riverbanks.
What you will see – Eigelstein Torburg, Stadtgarden , University area, Rheinauhafen, Chocolate Museum, Rheinpark, Cathedral
Sunday, October 6
AMSTERDAM, THE NETHERLANDS
There are 165 canals in Amsterdam, and you’ll get to enjoy some of them on your canal cruise. Alternatively, get a taste of local flavor, passing iconic canals, gabled houses, narrow bridges and houseboats while tasting Dutch specialties at one of Amsterdam’s grand cafes. *Please note: tour depends upon docking location and may be replaced with Jordaan District Walking Tour.
Excursion Options
- Amsterdam Canal Cruise Tour
- Jordaan District Walking Tour
Excursion Descriptions
Amsterdam Canal Cruise (1 hour 30 mins)
Overview – A scenic canal cruise through Amsterdam will allow you to understand why it is referred to as the “Venice of the North.” Amsterdam’s unique canal system offers one of the best vantage points to explore the city’s most famous sights. Admire the architecture of the homes lining the water, see some of the canals’ 1,500 bridges, including the fabled Skinny Bridge.
What you will see – Amsterdam Harbor, Canals of Amsterdam
Jordaan District Walking Tour (2 hours 30 mins)
Overview – This walking tour takes you to the Jordaan district, famous for its specialty shops, fashion boutiques, and restaurants. The tour begins at the Westerchurch, and then takes you past such highlights as the Noordermarkt, the Karthuizerhof (one of the loveliest inner courtyards in the city) and the “9 streets,” an area famous for its shops, cafes and bistros. We will stop at a local coffee house to enjoy a hot beverage and Dutch apple pie.
What you will see – Noordermarkt – Traditional quarter of Amsterdam, Jordaan District, Karthuizerhof, Local Café
Monday, October 7
AMSTERDAM – DISEMBARKATION
Bid Farewell to Amsterdam and prepare for your homeward flight.
Pavers & Masonry
Monday, October 7
