Welcome to Bucharest, where you’ll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel, perfectly situated in the city, for your overnight stay.

Nicknamed the ‘Paris of the East’, the centre of Bucharest encapsulates a distinctive Parisian atmosphere, with wide avenues adorned by famous landmarks and quaint leafy boulevards that cross the city

After enjoying the plush surrounds of your hotel this morning, you'll have the opportunity to learn about some of Bucharest’s most iconic attractions during a guided drive around the city, including a visit to the Spring Palace. Then, you’ll have time to explore the leafy boulevards at your leisure.
After your insightful tour, you’ll be transferred from Bucharest to Giurgiu, on the banks of the Danube, where a warm welcome from your captain and crew awaits on board your Emerald Cruises Star-Ship.

Included Excursion
Guided drive through Bucharest with a visit to the Spring Palace

EmeraldPLUS
Choir concert

Today, you'll have the opportunity to learn about Bulgarian history, as you explore the city that many call “The Little Vienna”. Immerse yourself in the beauty of its Neo-Baroque and Neo-Rococo architecture and stroll along the charming promenade.If you would prefer to do something more active, then instead, you could choose to embark on a guided hike to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rock-Hewn Churches of Ivanovo, known for their famous 14th-century frescoes.
Tonight, you’ll have the chance to mingle with your fellow guests while enjoying the welcome reception and dinner.

Included Excursion
Walking tour of Rousse

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided hike to Ivanovo Church

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Full day Tour of Veliko Tarnovo and Arbanasi (extra expense)

Viticulture forms the heart of life in the most western town in Bulgaria, where sun-kissed vineyards pepper the banks of the Danube and winemaking has prospered for generations. Your included tour of Vidin will introduce you to a peaceful side of life that revolves around wine, as you weave through a local vineyard and learn about their produce, before enjoying a tasting session. Afterwards, your local guide will take you to Baba Vida, a fortress that was originally constructed at the turn of the 10th century and is known for being one of only a handful of beautifully preserved castles in the country

Included Excursion
Visit to a local vineyard with wine tasting & a visit to Baba Vida Fortress

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided hike to Belogradchik Fortress

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Traditional Bulgarian pastry making (extra expense)

This morning, relax on board and admire your surroundings as we sail along the mighty Danube to Donji Milanovac, where a visit to the Lepenski Vir archaeological site, one of Europe’s best-hidden gems, awaits. Located right on the riverbanks, the Palaeolithic site is one of the most important of its kind on the continent, effortlessly capturing more than eight millennia of history. Archaeologists from around the world have used this site to learn about a number of different Stone Age settlements and the way that prehistoric cultures moved across Europe.

Included Excursion
Visit to Lepenski Vir archaeological site and museum

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Golubac Castle Visit (extra expense)

Serbia’s vibrant capital is yours to explore today. Your local guide will take you on a coach tour through the heart of the city, highlighting its many landmarks. The coach will pass through the centre, where you’ll notice reminders of the country’s turbulent history, set amongst the quiet and peaceful streets. Witness the ornate beauty of the Church of Saint Sava, one of the largest religious buildings in Europe, before stopping for a tour of the Museum of Yugoslavia. If you’re feeling more active, then you may instead choose to learn about Belgrade’s history during a guided bike tour.
This evening, you will be invited to the Horizon Lounge where a traditional Serbian folklore show will provide spectacular entertainment.

Included Excursion
Highlights of Belgrade

EmeraldPLUS
Serbian folklore evening show on board

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided bike tour in Belgrade

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National Opera Theatre tour (extra expense)

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Routes of Nikola Tesla (extra expense)

Today, you will have the opportunity to enjoy a truly unforgettable EmeraldPLUS experience, as you’re invited into the home of a local family for a traditional Croatian lunch.
Enjoy an afternoon of sailing further up the Danube towards Hungary, before joining your fellow passengers for a farewell dinner.

EmeraldPLUS
Home-hosted lunch with a Croatian family

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Vucedol Culture Museum (extra expense)

In the morning, we will sail to Kalocsa, a place known for its paprika production and colourful festivals. Discovering Hungary’s culture is an easy task in Kalocsa, where traditional folk art can be found around every corner and old traditions pave the way for daily life.

Later, you will venture to the Puszta, or Great Hungarian Plain, to visit a traditional Puszta horse farm. Your guide will teach you about the traditional performances of the Magyar cowboys, and you’ll have the opportunity to witness some of their exceptional equestrian skills first-hand as they showcase some of their exercise drills.

This evening, enjoy an authentic Hungarian folklore show on board, followed by a traditional dinner.

EmeraldPLUS
Puszta Equestrian Heritage

EmeraldPLUS
Traditional Hungarian folklore show on board

Feel free to explore Budapest at your own pace before your ship continues sailing to explore the Danube, Main and Rhein rivers.

Budapest is a place of striking contrasts, with Buda on one side housing a generous scattering of the city’s elegant landmarks, and Pest on the other encapsulating its fascinating past. Separated by the mighty Danube, you can explore them both by crossing the Chain Bridge, one of the most symbolic structures in the capital.

Today, you will have the opportunity to discover the city’s history during a guided tour, covering some of the highlights of Budapest and learn more about its stunning landscape and architecture. The history of the Hungarian capital shows a unique blend of cultures, cuisine, and vibrant lifestyle. There is so much to take in while you pass through the bustling city, which is an attractive destination for visitors from all over the world. If you are feeling active, then you may instead choose to hike to Gellert Hill.

Included Excursion
Guided coach tour of Budapest

EmeraldACTIVE
Hike to Gellert Hill

Bordering Austria and Hungary, the Slovakian capital is yours to discover today. Wander down cobblestone streets and witness the sheer majesty of ornate Baroque palaces as you explore with a local guide, passing the Renaissance courtyard of the Old Town Hall and the picturesque gardens of the Episcopal Summer Palace. Afterwards, enjoy free time to explore at leisure, perhaps perusing some of the quaint boutiques that line the streets.

This afternoon, you will be welcomed into the home of a local family to learn about their culture over traditional sweet treats and coffee.

Included Excursion
Walking tour of Bratislava

EmeraldPLUS
Home-hosted coffee and cake with a Slovakian family

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided hike to Bratislava Castle

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Skoda tour of post-Communist Bratislava (extra expense)

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Carpathian wine route (extra expense)

A wave of culture paves the way for life in the Austrian capital, where some of history’s most prestigious composers once walked the streets and found their inspiration. Today, by coach and on foot, you will have the opportunity to pass the iconic imperial palaces and noteworthy buildings adorning the Ringstrasse, including the Vienna State Opera.

Alternatively, embark on a guided cycling tour past idyllic riverbanks, monuments and lush parks before passing by Prater.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Vienna

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided bike tour of Vienna

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Visit to Schönbrunn Palace (extra expense)

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Viennese evening concert (extra expense)

This morning, you will have the opportunity to hike to Dürnstein Castle, perhaps stopping to imagine how it would have looked when Richard the Lionheart was held captive following the Third Crusade.
Alternatively, enjoy a guided bike ride from Dürnstein to Melk, passing noteworthy vineyards and beautiful landscapes.

After visiting Dürnstein Castle, relax on the Sun Deck as you sail through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Wachau Valley and on to Melk, nestled in the heart of the Wachau wine region. Your local guide will take you on a tour of the spectacular 900-year-old Benedictine abbey, including its ancient monastic library and medieval manuscripts saved from fires by the monks in the 13th century.

Included Excursion
Tour of Melk Abbey

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided hike to Dürnstein Castle

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided bike tour along the Danube

Sat on the confluence of the Danube, Inn and Ilz rivers, Passau is a postcard-worthy destination that has been shaped by the surrounding waterways. Maze-like romantic lanes weave through the city, opening up into large squares and magical promenades adorned with classical boutiques.

This afternoon, join your local guide for a tour of Passau and discover a peppering of delightful Baroque buildings, some of which date back to the 17th century. Stop to admire the silhouette of the hilltop Oberhaus Fortress and witness St. Stephen’s Cathedral, home of the largest church organ in Europe.
Later, return for an afternoon spent peacefully cruising through the heart of Europe.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Passau

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Excursion to Salzburg (extra expense)

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Excursion to Ceský Krumlov (extra expense)

After breakfast, set out on an exploration of one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Germany, where more than two millennia of history is yours to discover. Your local guide will lead you through the heart of Regensburg’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, once home to the seat of parliament. Delightful historic patrician houses line the streets, a visible testament to the area’s importance as a trading centre hundreds of years ago.

Later, return to your Star-Ship to sail through the picturesque surrounds of the Main-Danube Canal, passing Kelheim as you make your way to Nuremberg.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Regensburg

EmeraldPLUS
Bavarian band performance on board

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Sausage-making workshop (extra expense)

Today, the historic city of Nuremberg is yours to explore during an included sightseeing tour, touching on the architectural wonders that have acted as an inspiration for famous artists from around the world for generations.

After your guided tour, enjoy time to explore the city at leisure, passing idyllic houses that were lovingly reconstructed following the destruction of the war years.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Nuremberg

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World War II tour (extra expense)

This morning, the UNESCO World Heritage-listed town of Bamberg awaits. Thousands of listed buildings can be found in the medieval town centre, an area bursting with character, charm and one of the best-preserved old quarters in Europe.

Admire hundreds of ornamental façades as you explore the town with your local guide, passing the New Residence, a building that truly captures the opulence that was enjoyed by the prince bishops. Relax in the Rose Garden before witnessing the opulence of medieval Altenburg Castle overlooking the town.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Bamberg

Set alongside the Main River, Würzburg offers a perfect introduction to the Romantic Road, one of Bavaria’s most popular tourism routes that links stunning medieval locations throughout the country. Your own charming journey of discovery will touch on the sloping vineyard-laden hills of one of the biggest wine-producing areas in Germany.

Today, you will have the opportunity to visit the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Würzburg Residence, perhaps stopping to admire the Viennese Baroque architecture and secular features from Italy. Your local guide will teach you about how the architects behind the Würzburg Residence drew inspiration from a spectrum of different popular styles. After the tour, enjoy a guided walking tour of Würzburg, including the Gothic Marienkapelle and Town Hall.

Included Excursion
Walking tour of Würzburg and a visit to the Bishops Residence

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Excursion to Rothenburg (extra expense)

This morning, as part of your EmeraldPLUS offering, you will have the opportunity to attend an exclusive glassblowing presentation at the Glass Art Museum. Then, travel by coach to the picturesque village of Miltenberg, a place that perfectly encapsulates traditional Bavarian life.

Enjoy a guided tour of the village, as your local guide leads you down an intricate network of cobblestone streets, each adorned with colourful houses. Centuries ago, this area benefited from trade that was brought by river traffic, and this past affluence can still be seen today.

Alternatively, embark on an active walk to Mildenburg Castle, where a wonderful collection of artworks can be found inside of the castle that was once little more than a set of ruins.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Miltenberg

EmeraldPLUS
Exclusive visit to the Glass Art Museum in Wertheim with presentation

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided Active Walk to Mildenburg Castle

Relax on your Star-Ship this morning until we reach Rüdesheim, a town with a rich history of viticulture. When you arrive, ride the Winzerexpress to Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet Museum to see spectacular rare music boxes that have stood the test of time, showcased in a postcard-worthy building with a half-timbered façade.

Alternatively, enjoy an active walk through vineyards to see what makes this wine region so popular.

After lunch, sail through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge, perhaps standing on the Sun Deck and watching for the castles and fortresses that pepper the surrounding hilltops.

Included Excursion
Visit to Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet Museum

EmeraldACTIVE
Active Walk to Niederwalddenkmal

Cruise along the Rhine from Koblenz to Cologne this morning, where an illustrious 2,000-year-long history awaits. One of the oldest cities in the country, the Romans founded Cologne in 50 AD and you'll find a number of ancient ruins, monuments and medieval structures as reminders.

Enjoy a walking tour of the city today, as your local guide takes you through the Old Town, passing ancient bridges that survived the air raids of WWII, including the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cologne Cathedral and its filigree twin towers, an iconic part of the city’s skyline. Explore the city during a unique adventure that will take you hunting for some of the most typical Cologne treasures.

This evening, your crew will be delighted to welcome you to your farewell dinner.

Included Excursion
Quest for Cologne’s treasures

This morning, board a glass-top canal boat for a cruise down the UNESCO World Heritage-listed canal system that weaves across Amsterdam, passing elegant merchant’s residences that reflect the prosperity of the Dutch Golden Age, a time when Amsterdam was an important trading centre. Afterwards, enjoy free time to explore at leisure.

Alternatively, explore on two wheels, cycling from the comfortable surrounds of your Star-Ship to Waterland, passing a number of quintessentially Dutch villages and traditional windmills along the way.

Included Excursion
Canal cruise

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided bike tour to Waterland

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Private hidden Gems Tour of Amsterdam (extra expense)

The day is yours to explore Amsterdam before commencing your new adventure through the Rhein, Main and Danube rivers.

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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Cologne 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)

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)

Today you will travel via coach from Basel to Lyon where Emerald Liberté awaits you. Disembark your Star-ship and embark on a journey where you will enjoy the beautiful scenery crossing Switzerland.

France’s third-largest city, Lyon is a former Roman capital, steeped in history and considered to be the gastronomic heartbeat of the country. Home to traditional Lyonnaise cuisine, you'll enjoy an array of exemplary culinary delights.

Today, a guided city tour awaits you, including a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Basilica Notre-Dame de Fourvière, part of the inscribed historic site of Lyon. Wander through the city and soak in its vividly illustrated history, as buildings from all time periods can be seen adorning narrow cobblestone streets. Alternatively, explore the highlights of the city on two wheels as part of a guided bike tour of Lyon.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Lyon

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided bike tour of Lyon

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Excursion to Pérouges (extra expense)

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Private Culinary Charms of Lyon (extra expense)

Today we enjoy a relaxed morning sailing on the Saone river until we reach the lovely town of Macon. Here we will discover the Beaujolais wine region, renowned for its vibrant, fruity wines with Gamay grape variety. The extensive planting of the Gamay grape makes Beaujolais wine region one of the several regions on the planet to focus on a single grape variety. Red wine accounts for 99% of the total wine production of the region.

Included Excursion
Beaujolais wine tasting

The picturesque village of Tournon borders the gently meandering Rhône, dominated by a 16th century castle that overlooks the village and a number of iconic landmarks, including a set of ancient watchtowers.

Your guided tour of the village will showcase its intangible cultural heritage, granting every opportunity for you to immerse yourself in your surroundings. Alternatively, embark on an EmeraldACTIVE hike through the local vineyards and marvel at the rows upon rows of grapes used to make some of the finest wines in Europe.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Tournon

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided hike through the vineyards

Arrive in Viviers, a town with much Middle Age flair and home to one of France’s oldest cathedrals. Your included walking tour will highlight many of the city’s numerous spectacular monuments, along with their ornate windows and lavish façades.

EmeraldPLUS
CD lecture Art & Culture in the South of France

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Viviers

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Visit to Chauvet Pont D’Arc (extra expense)

Avignon has a rich history, from Celtic beginnings to being the residence of seven successive Popes between 1309 and 1377. The city also played a major part central to the French Revolution.

Your included walking tour will take you past the ornate beauty of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Palais des Papes, as well as Pont d’Avignon, an ancient stone bridge crossing the Rhône.  This evening you are invited to join the unique experience of a classical concert in Avignon as part of our EmeraldPLUS program.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Avignon

EmeraldACTIVE
Canoeing excursion in Avignon

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Guided tour of the Pont du Gard (extra expense)

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Private hidden Gems tour of Avignon (extra expense)

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Visit to Chateauneuf du Pape with wine tasting (extra expense)

EmeraldPLUS
Classical concert in Avignon

The past is yours to uncover in Arles, a once-important Phoenician trading port that was captured by the Romans, who peppered the city with iconic monuments. Today, your included tour of the city will showcase some of its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Roman and Romanesque monuments, illustrating how the city has evolved over the centuries.

Visit the 2,000-year-old Arles Amphitheatre and follow in the footsteps of world-renowned artist, Vincent van Gogh. The rest of the day is yours to explore at leisure, where a stop at a local and quintessential café is a must before returning to relax on board your Star-Ship. This evening, you’ll enjoy a delightful Provençal dining experience on board, expertly prepared by France's Top Chef finalist, Fabien Morreale.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Arles with arena visit

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Excursion to Les Baux de Provence (extra expense)

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Provencal Cosmetics Workshop (extra expense)

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In the footsteps of Van Gogh: painting workshop (extra expense)

EmeraldPLUS
Provençal dinner hosted by local chef Fabien Morreale

After breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to your fellow guests and disembark your Star-Ship for your transfer to the airport, taking memories of the idyllic French countryside and delightful cuisine with you.

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.

Please book your flight to depart out of Nice after 01:00 PM.