Tulips & the Rhine & London

Welcome to Switzerland. You’ll be greeted at Zurich Airport by an Emerald Cruises representative and transferred to Basel. Here, you’ll board your Emerald Star-Ship, where your friendly captain and crew will be waiting to greet you. Please book your flight to arrive into Zurich prior to 01:00 PM.

Set high above the Rhine at the point where the Black Forest joins Alsace, Breisach presents a charming blend of German and French cultures. The Romanesque-Gothic St. Stephen’s church, resting upon a volcanic hill, is visible from a great distance and is a notable landmark. Included Excursion Freiburg visit with Botanical Garden Discover the enchanting city of Freiburg, nestled amidst the Black Forest. Explore its historic centre, lined with colourful half-timbered houses and a vibrant market square. Wander through the picturesque botanical garden, showcasing a diverse array of flora at their most spectacular in spring. EmeraldACTIVE Guided e-bike tour in Breisach For a more active experience, choose an exhilarating e-bike tour around Breisach. Your route takes in the picturesque scenery between the Kaiserstuhl mountains and the river through the woods. Once you arrive in Burkheim, take a break to enjoy some traditional Black Forest cake. Immerse yourself in the natural beauty and cultural richness of this captivating region on two wheels. DiscoverMORE Guided tour of Colmar (extra expense) Commence your magical morning with a tour of Colmar. As you walk down the cobblestone lanes, its easy to imagine the characters from the Grimms Fairy Tales here, where half-timbered façades are adorned with window boxes full of colourful blooms. Activity level: Easy, Duration: 5 hours

Today, you’ll arrive in Strasbourg, a city shaped by both French and German influences and renowned for its fascinating history and beautiful architecture. Once a key medieval trading centre and later part of the German Empire, Strasbourg’s World Heritage-listed Neustadt district showcases grand 19th-century boulevards and impressive imperial buildings. Its historic core, centred around the magnificent cathedral, reflects centuries of cultural exchange and shifting borders. Strasbourg also lies at the heart of the celebrated Alsace wine region, where charming villages and vineyard-covered hillsides are never far away. Cruise onwards to Germersheim tonight for an exclusive concert at Bruchsal Palace. Included Excursion Guided tour of Strasbourg The Neustadt district is yours to discover during your included tour, as is the Maison Kammerzell, a prime example of German Renaissance architecture. Paying homage to the region’s artistic past, Petite France is an exceptional historic quarter that looks as though it has been pulled directly from an artist’s easel.  EmeraldACTIVE Active walk to Orangerie Park Set out on an active walk to Orangerie Park, a beautiful 17th-century estate in the centre of Strasbourg. Covering 64 acres, it is the city’s largest and oldest park, and in spring is a riot of colour with magnolia and Japanese cherry blossoms. Look out for the storks, which famously roam free around the grounds.  DiscoverMORE Baden Baden Spa Experience (extra expense) Escape to the heart of Germany’s Black Forest for a rejuvenating day at the world-renowned Baden-Baden spa. Famous for its healing thermal waters and elegant ambience, Baden-Baden offers the perfect blend of wellness, history and indulgence. Activity level: Easy, Duration: 3 hours EmeraldPLUS Evening Concert at Bruchsal Palace Bruchsal Palace, also known as the Damiansburg, is a breathtaking Baroque Palace noted for its fine Rococo decoration. Made up of over 50 buildings, this impressive complex includes a three-winged residential building with an attached chapel, four pavilions separated by a road, some smaller utility buildings, and a pretty garden. This evening, you’re invited to attend a classical concert in one of the most beautiful rooms. This exclusive experience blends culture, atmosphere, and refinement, an enchanting night in one of Germany’s most stunning historical settings.

A lively university town, Mannheim is best known for its unique grid system and is often called the City of Squares (Quadratestadt). Its most famous landmark is the striking Baroque Mannheim Palace, one of the largest palaces in Europe. Included Excursion Guided tour of Heidelberg Today, you’ll travel to nearby Heidelberg, the charming UNESCO City of Literature that 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 carefully curated gardens are still peppered with serene water features, sculptures and colourful flowerbeds.  EmeraldACTIVE Guided hike through the vineyards in Bad-Dürkheim Visit the quaint wellness town of Bad-Dürkheim for an active hike through the beautiful vineyards. Afterwards, enjoy an orientation walk through the town to visit the Fitz-Ritter Winery, which has been in the same family for nine generations. Here, enjoy a wine tasting to savour the local flavours.  This evening, you’ll cruise onwards to Rudesheim. DiscoverMORE Rüdesheim walk with specialty coffee On your visit to the charming town of Rüdesheim, take a short ride on the mini train to taste the specialty coffee in the region. A swig of Rüdesheimer coffee is a treat for wine lovers and coffee fans alike. Activity level: Easy, Duration: 2 hours

Cruise through the World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge, exemplifying the extraordinary beauty of an area that left the philosophers and artists of the German Romanticism movement entranced. Look out for the iconic Lorelei Rock, where a beautiful siren is said to have lured sailors to their death with her song. Once a Roman stronghold, Koblenz was established around 8 BC for its strategic value. Today, it’s a modern park- and flower-filled city with a unique blend of historic and contemporary architecture. It is particularly charming in spring, with pleasant weather and the surrounding vineyards bursting into life. Included Excursion Orientation walk of Koblenz Join your local guide for an insightful walking tour of Koblenz, passing examples of architecture that survived the war years, including the Church of Our Lady. You’ll also have the chance to see the point at which two of Europe’s great rivers converge at the German Corner.  DiscoverMORE A Moselle Valley & Cochem Castle visit Resting on a spectacular hill 91m (299 ft) above the Moselle Valley, you’ll find the medieval town of Cochem. Embark on a walking tour including a guided visit to the magnificent Cochem (Reichsburg) Castle, boasting impressive views of the Moselle Valley. The original 12th-century Romanesque style was replaced by King Louis XIV, who ordered his troops to destroy it in 1689. Rebuilt in 1868, he chose the neo-Gothic architecture that we know today as his familys summer residence. Activity level: Difficult/Active, Duration: 5 hours 

Continue along the Rhine River to Cologne. Founded by the Romans in 50 AD, this is one of the oldest cities in Germany and was almost completely rebuilt after the destruction of World War II. Look out for the twin spires of its Gothic cathedral, known locally as the Kolner Dom. Later, you’ll arrive in the vibrant city of Düsseldorf. With its innovative architecture, high-end art scene and passion for fashion, Düsseldorf is one of the country’s most intoxicating cities.  Included Excursion Guided tour of Cologne’s Old Town Join your local guide and explore the city of Cologne, including the Old Town with its beautiful squares, historic monuments and contemporary architecture. You’ll conclude at the World Heritage-listed Cologne Cathedral, whose filigree twin towers form an iconic part of the skyline. During your free time, perhaps shop for trinkets or explore further in the city, before returning to your Emerald Star-Ship.  Included Excursion Walking tour of Düsseldorf Discover the vibrant city of Düsseldorf on a guided walking tour that takes you through its cultural landmarks and picturesque streets. During your tour, you can explore the historic Altstadt and modern cityscape.  EmeraldACTIVE Active walk to Cologne’s Gardens Embark on an active guided walk through Cologne’s beautiful Flora and Botanical Garden. Opened in 1863, this houses more than 12,000 species from across the planet, featured in themed gardens, palm houses and lush green fields.  EmeraldACTIVE Active walk to Düsseldorf Gardens As the city awakens from winter, its parks and riverside promenades burst into bloom. Take an active visit to one of Düsseldorf’s beautiful gardens, such as the Nordpark or the Botanical Garden, to admire the vibrant tulips and cherry blossoms, along peaceful walking paths. Combined with a stroll along the Rhine, or a stop at the Old Town’s cafés, this spring experience captures the city’s lively yet tranquil charm at its most picturesque time of year.  DiscoverMORE German beer experience (extra expense) Discover the spirited beer culture of Cologne on this lively and flavourful guided tour through the citys legendary brewhouses. Activity level: Easy, Duration: 2 hours

Welcome to the Netherlands, a postcard-worthy destination of World Heritage-listed canals, Dutch countryside, and esteemed art galleries.   Included Excursion Visit to Keukenhof Gardens This morning, you’ll visit the iconic Keukenhof Gardens, boasting 32 hectares (79 acres) of spring-flowering bulbs. Open only from March to May each year, more than seven million bulbs are planted, including 800 varieties of tulips. This area is infused with delightful aromas and a swathe of vibrant colours. Soak in the sights of tulips, hyacinths, and orchids of every colour, creating an expertly arranged pattern of beauty. You’ll also see statues commissioned by world-renowned artists, each adopting the annual theme. EmeraldPLUS Clog painting on board Back on board your Emerald Star-Ship this afternoon, join a local expert for a clog painting class. Learn about this proud tradition and create your own Dutch masterpiece. DiscoverMORE Hidden Gems tour of AmsterdaM Explore a quieter, more authentic side of Amsterdam on this relaxed and personalised tour through the city’s hidden treasures. Visit the historic Jordaan area and a charming chocolate shop for a sweet treat. Continue through some of the city’s most beautiful streets to Our Lord in the Attic, a 17th-century house with a fully preserved Catholic church in its attic. Finish with a beer and traditional Dutch snacks at a local brewery. Activity level: Moderate, Duration: 2.5 hours DiscoverMORE Dutch Delights (extra expense) See the highlights of this amazing city while tasting some delicious Dutch treats. Activity level: Easy, Duration: 3 hours

After concluding your luxury river cruise, you’ll be transferred to Amsterdam Central Station and take the train bound for London St. Pancras Station. Upon arrival in London, you’ll be transferred to your hotel for an exciting three-night included stay in Great Britain’s historic capital. Once you’ve settled in, take time to explore this enthralling, multicultural metropolis at your own pace. Immerse yourself in London’s vibrant atmosphere, wander through its history-drenched streets, or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the River Thames or through one of the beautiful urban parks. This evening, enjoy meeting your fellow guests and tour director for a convivial welcome drink.

Enjoy your time in the British capital, a dynamic city that blends centuries of heritage and iconic landmarks with a contemporary flair and vibrancy. Your tour director will be more than happy to help you plan your London explorations during your stay. Included Excursion Guided city tour of London Join a guided city tour to discover some of London’s most iconic and historical landmarks, which include Big Ben, the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, and Buckingham Palace, the official royal residence. Experience the buzz of the West End, home to the world-famous theatre district, take in the sights of Trafalgar Square, and witness the traditional Changing of the Guard, all the while soaking up the capital’s storied heritage DiscoverMORE Afternoon tea (extra expense) Indulge in the timeless British tradition of afternoon tea in the heart of London. Enjoy a selection of freshly-brewed teas, paired with delicate finger sandwiches, freshly-baked scones with clotted cream and jam, and a variety of exquisite pastries. This quintessential British experience offers a perfect moment to relax and savour the flavours of London in a charming setting, whether in a traditional tea room or an elegant hotel. Activity level: Easy, Duration: 3 hours

Today is yours to leisurely explore the rest of London at your own pace. You might consider taking in the panoramic views across the city from the iconic London Eye, a visit to the esteemed British Museum, or strolling through the verdant urban landscape of Hyde Park. You could also check out the striking street art in Shoreditch, or enjoy a show at one of the many renowned theatres in the West End.

This morning, after breakfast, it’s time to depart your hotel and be transferred to the airport for your onward flight, taking with you memories of iconic London landmarks, captivating royal heritage and traditional British afternoon tea.