1-800-342-0019 Speak to a River Cruise Expert

The Majestic Rhine & Berlin on Emerald Destiny

From Zurich, Switzerland to Berlin, Germany
Length: 11 Days - Departs: Mon, Aug 10, 2026
Operator
Departure
Aug 10, 2026
Arrival
Aug 20, 2026

Why Pay Retail? Call us or click for a quick quote and save money!

This river cruise qualifies for unpublished pricing. Please call us or Click Here To Get Our Low Price

All the River Operators Offers & More:

LOW UNPUBLISHED PRICES ON EMERALD CRUISES
We have Low Prices on Emerald - Guaranteed!

Exclusive Offer, $500 Savings on Emerald River Cruises

Mention Promo Code: PT3528
Promotion Image

Exclusive Offer, $500 Savings on Emerald River Cruises

Exclusive Offer, $500 Savings on Emerald River Cruises

Promotion Details
Take advantage of this exclusive offer and enjoy savings of $500 per couple ($250 per person) on 8+ day river cruises. Plus as always receive our AffordableTours.com 5% extra savings. (Blackout dates may apply; contact your Travel Consultant for more details)
Must Book By Wed, Apr 30, 2025
View Promotion Terms & Conditions ›

Affordable Tours exclusive offer is available for new bookings only made between April 1-30 2025 on 8+ day itineraries across 2025 & 2026 river departures. Exclusive offers are combinable with 2-for-1 fares, pay-in-full offers, Emerald exclusive savings, Flash sales, Military discounts, Show Vouchers, Key Account offers, and Loyalty offers unless otherwise specified. Not combinable with groups. Not combinable with any other offers. All offers are inventory controlled and may be extended, cancelled or withdrawn at any time without notice. Scenic group reserves the right to correct errors or omissions and to change any and all fares and promotions at any time. For the most up-to-date pricing, availability and offers, please call your Professional Travel Advisor. Offers applicable for legal residents of the 50 United States of America & Washington D.C.

Up to $200 Group Savings

Mention Promo Code: PT3278
Promotion Image

Up to $200 Group Savings

Up to $200 Group Savings

Promotion Details
Don't miss out on this incredible group savings to reserve your 2026 river cruise with Emerald Cruises. Reserve your 2026 river cruise and receive up to $200 per person group savings. Hurry as space is limited. Plus as always, receive our AffordableTours.com 5% extra savings. Whether you're planning a family reunion or a friends getaway, there's never been a better time to explore the world together. Contact your travel consultant for more details.
Must Book By Mon, Jun 30, 2025
View Promotion Terms & Conditions ›

Available for new group agreements between April 1, 2025 - June 30, 2025. Book a new group and receive Group Savings of $200 per person on 2026 river destinations on Emerald Cruises. Group savings are available for the life of the agreement based on availability and standard review dates. Combinable with current offers, Emerald Exclusive, loyalty savings, and future travel credits. Flash Sale offers are excluded. Group policies and benefits are subject to change at any time. Refer to Emerald Cruises Guide to Group Benefits for amenity selections. All offers are inventory-controlled and may be extended, canceled, or withdrawn without notice. Emerald Cruises reserves the right to correct errors or omissions and to change any fares and promotions at any time. Offers applicable for residents of the 50 United States of America & Washington D.C. For complete terms and conditions, visit emeraldcruises.com.

$300 Military Savings

Mention Promo Code: PT3378
Promotion Image

$300 Military Savings

$300 Military Savings

Promotion Details
We are honored to recognize the selfless service of those who have served our nation. As a token of our appreciation, enjoy this exclusive savings of $300 per suite to all US military personnel, veterans, and their families.
Must Book By Wed, Dec 31, 2025
View Promotion Terms & Conditions ›

US military personnel, veterans, and their families take an additional $300 off per cabin on Emerald Cruises River with proof of current or past military status. This offer is combinable with 2-for-1 savings, pay-in-full offers, key account exclusives, Flash sales, Scenic Select, and Emerald Cruises. Combinable with groups. Not combinable with any other offers. Taxes & port charges are included in the price. Offer available to residents of the 50 United States only. Offer ends December 31, 2025. Offers may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Visit scenicusa.com for complete terms and conditions.


River Cruise Itinerary

  1. Day 1
    Zurich - Basel
    Mon, Aug 10, 2026

    Welcome to the medieval city of Basel. Here, you’re greeted by an Emerald Cruises representative and transferred to your contemporary Star-Ship.
    This evening, join your fellow guests for dinner on board.

    Please book your flight to arrive into Zurich prior to 01:00 PM.


    Meals: Dinner
  2. Day 2
    Breisach - Colmar
    Tue, Aug 11, 2026

    Your journey through the heart of Europe will commence with a tour of Colmar. A magical place, Colmar resembles the imagery found within a beloved fairy tale. 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’re feeling more active, you may instead wish to embark on a guided bike tour from Breisach to Colmar.

    Included Excursion
    Guided tour of Colmar

    EmeraldACTIVE
    Guided bike tour to Colmar

    DiscoverMORE
    Guided tour of Freiburg with market tasting (extra expense)


    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  3. Day 3
    Kehl - Strasbourg
    Wed, Aug 12, 2026

    This morning, your Star-Ship will dock in Kehl, where you will be transferred across the river to Strasbourg, a city perfectly encapsulating the region’s medieval charm. Strasbourg is a city best explored via its quaint waterways. You’ll explore the historic architecture 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.

    Included Excursion
    Canal boat tour in Strasbourg


    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  4. Day 4
    Rastatt (Baden-Baden)
    Thu, Aug 13, 2026

    This morning, you'll be transferred from your Star-Ship docked in Rastatt to the charming spa town of Baden-Baden, frequented by celebrities and royalty for centuries. If you’re feeling active, you can embark on a guided hike to Altes Schloss, a fascinating castle ruin full of hidden dungeons and winding staircases. Enjoy panoramic views of the Black Forest and the Rhine Valley as you trace the footsteps of former residents. Tonight, as part of your EmeraldPLUS experience, you’re invited to join an exclusive private concert in a historical venue.

    Included Excursion
    Guided walking tour of Baden-Baden

    EmeraldPLUS
    Evening Concert on the Rhine

    DiscoverMORE
    Baden Baden Spa Experience (extra expense)

    DiscoverMORE
    Entrance to the Casino (extra expense)

    EmeraldACTIVE
    Guided hike to Altes Schloss


    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  5. Day 5
    Mannheim (Heidelberg)
    Fri, Aug 14, 2026

    Strolling down Heidelberg’s cobblestone streets, you may find yourself as entranced as the German Romanticist thinkers before you. Heidelberg is a living representation of the legend-steeped cityscapes depicted by the romanticists, its peaceful surroundings beckoning exploration.

    Today, you'll explore Heidelberg Castle or opt to hike from Mount Königstuhl to Heidelberg for awe-inspiring panoramas.

    Included Excursion
    Guided tour of Heidelberg

    EmeraldACTIVE
    Hike from Mount Königstuhl to Heidelberg

    DiscoverMORE
    Vineyards hike and wine tasting in Bad Durkheim (extra expense)


    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  6. Day 6
    Koblenz
    Sat, Aug 15, 2026

    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, and peaceful parks 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.

    Included Excursion
    Walking tour of Koblenz

    EmeraldACTIVE
    Bike tour in Koblenz

    DiscoverMORE
    Eltz Castle visit (extra expense)


    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  7. Day 7
    Rüdesheim
    Sun, Aug 16, 2026

    This morning enjoy the peaceful and inspiring sailing through the Rhine valley, and discover the fascinating legends of the Rhine during your EmeraldPLUS onboard.

    In the afternoon, you’ll arrive in Rüdesheim, a captivating city known for its authentic atmosphere and traditional appeal. Here, in the home of cuckoo clocks, oompah bands, and Bavarian beer, the Rhineland's charm is 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 minitrain 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

    EmeraldPLUS
    Legends on the Rhine


    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  8. Day 8
    Mainz – Frankfurt – Berlin
    Mon, Aug 17, 2026

    After breakfast, you will be transferred from your Star-Ship to the airport for your flight to Berlin. The German capital has much to offer, from its captivating entertainment to its historic architecture. A three-night stay in a centrally located hotel is included in your itinerary. 


    Meals: Breakfast
  9. Day 9
    Berlin
    Tue, Aug 18, 2026

    This morning, join your local guide for a walking tour of Berlin, passing by the famous Alexanderplatz, the iconic Brandenburg Gate and Berlin Wall, a symbolic monument that portrays the division for near-on three decades and then reunion, of the city. This afternoon, you're free to explore this intriguing capital at leisure, perhaps discovering the creative lifestyles of the Berlin residents and the vibrant arts scene or savouring one of the many chic restaurants.

    Included Excursion
    Guided tour of Berlin


    Meals: Breakfast
  10. Day 10
    Berlin
    Wed, Aug 19, 2026

    Today, you'll have the opportunity to explore Berlin at your own pace. You may wish to discover more of the historic architecture and modern landmarks found in numerous places across the German capital, including the renowned, industrial heritage buildings. There are also a number of excellent museums worth visiting, including Berlin’s Museum Island. Or you could immerse yourself in the popular food markets in the city’s market halls, or browse the luxury shops along Kurfürstendamm, one of Berlin’s most famous avenues.

    DiscoverMORE
    Guided tour of Potsdam (extra expense)


    Meals: Breakfast
  11. Day 11
    Berlin
    Thu, Aug 20, 2026

    This morning after breakfast, bid a fond farewell to your fellow guests as you’ll be transferred to the airport for your onward or homebound flight, leaving Berlin with treasured memories of your enthralling city stay

    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.


    Meals: Breakfast

Countries Visited

Switzerland, France, Germany

Rivers Visited

Main, Moselle, Rhine

OR Call Us For a Free Quote 1-800-342-0019

Ship Information

Loading...

Cabins

Loading...

Life on Board

Loading...

Questions & Answers
  Ask A Question

Question: Will the day-by-day itinerary change?

Yes, the river cruise itineraries may change due to reasons such as inclement weather or unforeseen events. Your safety is the number one concern aboard and all precautions necessary will be taken in order to ensure passenger safety, including changing itineraries. Please note that when itineraries do change, the ship staff will do their best to substitute any missed port with an alternative destination.

Question: In what language is the river cruise conducted?

The river cruise will be conducted in English only.

Customer Reviews

Overall Rating
4.5
Accommodations
4.5
Itinerary
4.3
Professional Staff
5
Repeat with Operator
4.5
Value for Money
4.1

Ratings based off 11 reviews - currently showing 5 reviews with comments only

We had a great cruise with no issues whatsoever.

We had an outstanding trip down the Danube on Emerald Waterways. The food was amazing, the service was absolutely top-notch, the places we stopped (Passau, Linz and Cesky Krumlov, Vienna, Bratislava, and Budapest) were all wonderful in their own way. The options provided by Emerald (active vs. included, and the add-on activities) were just right. Our Cruise Director and the Activity Manager were very knowledgeable and attentive throughout our trip. As alway, Affordable Tours helped us book, and provided great follow-up care when we needed it. 

This trip was wonderful, with only 160 passengers we were treated royally. Everyone on board the ship worked with only one thing in mind to please the customers.

Derek was very thorough and easy to work with. Our trip was what we expected.

We were fortunate the trip went as planned. A lock was damaged and the ship we were scheduled for was unavailable. Emerald provided a different ship and we completed our full itinerary. Great job Emerald. The trip wonderful. Great staff, tours and food. Our Affordable agent Allyson fulfilled all our needs efficiently providing excellent customer care.

You May Also Like

  • Ship Image
    Cruise Line
    Viking
    Ship
    Viking Dagur
    Starts
    Zurich
    Ends
    Paris
    Days
    12
    From
    $3,799
  • Ship Image
    Cruise Line
    AmaWaterways
    Ship
    AmaViola
    Starts
    Zurich
    Ends
    Amsterdam
    Days
    12
    From
    $6,409
  • Ship Image
    Cruise Line
    Gate1
    Ship
    Monarch Duchess
    Starts
    Zurich
    Ends
    Amsterdam
    Days
    11
    From
    $3,249
  • Ship Image
    Cruise Line
    Emerald
    Ship
    Emerald Astra
    Starts
    Zurich
    Ends
    Amsterdam
    Days
    11
    From
    $9,820

AffordableTours.com is a travel agent for Emerald. Brochure Price is based on the itinerary's highest brochure price. Our price reflects our base price for the same departure as Brochure Price. All prices, itineraries, accommodations and dates are subject to change without notice and at any time. All prices are USD per person and based on double occupancy. Availability is limited and must be reconfirmed at time of booking. All prices change frequently and our website prices are not guaranteed until a deposit has been received by us. The prices on our website are intended to serve as a guide only and may not accurately reflect current prices. We are not responsible for errors, omissions, or changes in these prices until a booking has been confirmed by one of our agents. Please call us toll free at 1-800-342-0019 to confirm current prices and availability. Prices listed are per person, cruise only, and based on double occupancy.

Call Us Now 1-800-342-0019

How It Works

Vacationing has never been easier or cheaper with the help of a dedicated travel consultant from AffordableTours.com

Freq Quote 1. Free Quote

Find your perfect trip on our website and simply request a free quote. Need to speak to a live person? Call us 7 days a week at 1-800-342-0019. No robots here!

Dedicated Travel Consultant 2. Dedicated Travel Consultant

Your personal travel consultant will reach out and be your point of contact for your entire travel experience from start to finish. Did we mention you'll be working with an award winning team? Sweet!

Low Price Guaranteed 3. Low Price Guaranteed

Because we're one of the largest sellers of travel, we're able to give you a discount on your vacation package. No one beats our prices!

Stress Free Travel 4. Stress Free Travel

Knowing you got a great deal, all that's left is for you to pack your bags and enjoy your vacation!


AffordableTours.com BBB Business Review

Better Business Bureau

AffordableTours.com is a proud recipient of the Better Business Bureau (BBB) awards 2006-2024 with A+ Rating.

It Pays To Refer! Earn Up To $200!

It's simple: Sign up your friends, family, and anyone to us and when they book you will receive an American Express gift card worth up to $200 in the mail for simply referring.

Read More

Get discounts by Email!