Welcome to Basel. On arrival, you’ll be met at the airport and transferred to your Emerald Cruises Star-Ship, where your friendly captain and crew will be waiting to greet you. This evening, join your fellow guests for dinner on board.

Please book your flight to arrive into Basel prior to 03:00 PM.

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. You’ll also have the opportunity to sample authentic Black Forest delicacies. If you're feeling more active, you can choose to join a guided bike tour in Breisach.

EmeraldPLUS
Guided tour of Freiburg with tasting

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided bike tour in Breisach

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Guided tour of Colmar (extra expense)

This morning, you'll arrive in Kehl and disembark your Star-Ship, then be transferred by coach to the picturesque town of Strasbourg. Here, an enthralling medieval past is yours to discover, including quaint cobblestone squares framed by wellpreserved, half-timbered houses. During your included excursion, you’ll also have the opportunity to discover the heart of Alsace in Strasbourg and embark on a culinary journey where you’ll discover typical flavours of this region. Tonight, as part of your EmeraldPLUS experience, you’re invited to join an exclusive private concert in a historical venue.

Included Excursion
Flavours of Alsace

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Baden Baden Spa experience (extra expense)

EmeraldPLUS
Private Evening Concert on the Rhine

Relax on board this morning as you sail towards Germersheim, following the meandering Rhine River and passing the confluence of the Rhine and Neckar. Travel by coach to Heidelberg, where you’ll have the opportunity to learn about how it became a UNESCO City of Literature, having inspired the likes of Mark Twain and William Turner with its historical setting.
Your guided tour of the town will allow you to find your own inspiration among its delightful landmarks, including Heidelberg Castle, one of the most impressive Renaissance.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Heidelberg

EmeraldACTIVE
Active hike from Mount Königstuhl to Heidelberg

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

We’ll take you into the heart of Koblenz, an ancient city pulled from the pages of a German fairy tale. Enjoy the picturesque backdrop of vineyards and snow-topped mountain ranges as your local guide takes you through open cobbled squares and down narrow streets, passing façades adorned with boxes of spring-blooming flowers. You’ll 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.

Included Excursion
Orientation Walk of Koblenz

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Moselle Valley & Cochem Castle visit (extra expense)

This morning, you’ll will arrive in Cologne and have the chance to know one of Germany's oldest cities and get up close with the famous post card worthy Cathedral. After lunch, 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. Immerse yourself in the city's lively atmosphere, indulge in the delicious local cuisine, and marvel at the contrast of Düsseldorf’s ancient and modern charms.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Cologne Old Town

Included Excursion
Walking tour of Duesseldorf

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Cologne Beer Experience (extra expense)

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.

Included Excursion
Excursion to Alkmaar

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided bike tour to Waterland

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Private hidden Gems tour of Amsterdam (extra expense)

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Dutch Delights (extra expense)

Welcome to Denmark and Copenhagen, the fascinating capital city that is home to centuries of Danish royal family history. You'll be transferred from the airport to your hotel for your included 3-night stay, where you'll meet your fellow travellers and tour director.

Today, join a guided city tour and enthralling journey through the heart of Denmark's capital, where rich historical landmarks blend with picturesque waterways. As you glide through the serene canals, you'll pass by charming old buildings and iconic sights, such as the colourful Nyhavn district, where prolific Danish author Hans Christian Andersen, lived and drew inspiration for his literary fairy tales. Along the way, you'll also spot the regal Amalienborg Palace, the Copenhagen residence of the Danish royal family.

Included Excursion
Guided city tour of Copenhagen and canal cruise

Begin your day with a visit to the striking Christiansborg Palace, once the home to kings and queens and today, seat of the Danish Parliament and Supreme Court.

The rest of the afternoon is yours to spend exploring Copenhagen at leisure, soaking up the sights of this enchanting  Nordic city. You may wish to visit the world-famous Tivoli Gardens, or Rosenborg Castle, a four centuries-old  Renaissance castle that houses the Danish crown jewels. Or perhaps relax at one of Copenhagen's delightful café terraces, or sample delicious open-faced sandwiches with a cold beer at one of the capital’s many restaurants. Your tour director will be more than happy to help you plan your Copenhagen explorations.

EmeraldPLUS
Visit to Christiansborg Palace

This morning after breakfast, it’s time to bid a fond farewell to Copenhagen, leaving with memories of your marvellous Rhine Cruise and fairy-tales of the Danish capital.

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.