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.

Included Excursion
Walking tour of Amsterdam with Rijksmuseum visit

Today, you will be transferred from your hotel to your contemporary Emerald Cruises Star-Ship. This evening, join your fellow guests for a welcome dinner on board. 

This morning, discover the charm of Alkmaar, a picturesque Dutch town just a short distance from Amsterdam. Explore its historic center, lined with charming canals and medieval buildings. Alkmaar is famous for its centuries-old cheese market where traditional cheesemakers showcase their craft and engage in lively auctions. Immerse yourself in the local culture in this typical charming town. Alternatively, embark on a bike tour through the Dutch countryside.

In the afternoon enjoy sailing on the Rhine River, perhaps grab a drink on the Sun Deck and watching the passing scenery before joining the welcome dinner.

Included Excursion
Excursion to Alkmaar

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided bike tour to Waterland

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Dutch Delights (extra expense)

Join a walking tour of Düsseldorf, a vibrant city renowned for its stylish boutiques and charming Old Town. Stroll along the picturesque Rhine River, admire the stunning architecture, and discover hidden gems off the beaten path. Later this day we will arrive in Cologne, famous for its Gothic Cathedral. This afternoon you can immerse yourself in the city's lively atmosphere, indulge in delicious local cuisine, and experience the unique charm of the city.

Included Excursion
Walking tour of Duesseldorf

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Cologne’s Old Town

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German Beer Experience (extra expense)

Immerse yourself in fairy tale-like surroundings today as we cruise to Koblenz, a town with a postcard-worthy backdrop of vineyards and mountain ranges. Your included walking tour of this Roman town will unveil the twin-towered façade of the Church of Our Lady, the point at which two of Europe’s great rivers meet at the German Corner.

Enjoy sailing through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge this afternoon. Here, romantic castles sit atop tree-covered canyons and half-timbered medieval villages appear suspended in time.

Included Excursion
Walking tour of Koblenz

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Moselle Valley & Cochem Castle visit (extra expense, please note: this will be replaced with Eltz Castle when not available)

This morning, you will discover Heidelberg. The idyllic UNESCO City of Literature has inspired the likes of Mark Twain and famed British artist William Turner. A guided tour of the town will unveil its rich history, starting at the Renaissance ruins of Heidelberg Castle, where the carefully curated gardens host serene water features, sculptures and colourful flowerbeds.  If you are feeling more active, you can also join a hike that will give you fantastic views over Heidelberg. And tonight, our EmeraldPLUS invites you to join a magical private concert in a historical venue.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Heidelberg

EmeraldACTIVE
Active hike from Mount Königstuhl to Heidelberg

EmeraldPLUS
Private Evening Concert on the Rhine

This morning, you'll dock in Kehl to be transferred by coach to the picturesque town of Strasbourg, where a medieval past is yours to discover among cobbled squares surrounded by half-timbered houses.

During your included excursion, you will have the opportunity to discover the heart of Alsace in Strasbourg and embark on a journey through the typical flavours of this region.

Included Excursion
Flavours of Alsace

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Baden Baden Spa experience (extra expense)

Today, as part of your incredible EmeraldPLUS programme, you will visit the city of Freiburg. Considered the 'Capital of the Black Forest', Freiburg has lovely sights that will amaze you. As part of your visit, you will also have the opportunity to sample authentic Black Forest delicacies. If you're feeling more active, you can choose to pedal your way through Breisach on a guided bike tour.

EmeraldPLUS
Guided tour of Freiburg with tasting

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided bike tour in Breisach

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Guided tour of Colmar (extra expense)

After breakfast, it's time to say farewell to your Star-Ship and fellow guests and disembark for your transfer to the airport, taking memories of the Black Forest with you.

Please book your flight to depart out of Basel 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.