Rhine Highlights with Switzerland

Your journey begins in the picturesque city of Amsterdam. A labyrinth of narrow laneways and canals lined with beautifully preserved 17th century buildings and charming cafés, the city is a delight to wander. This afternoon, board your all-inclusive luxury Scenic Space-Ship and settle into your suite. Balcony suites have windows that convert into a Scenic Sun Lounge, allowing you fresh air and uninterrupted views of ever-changing landscapes and life along the riverbanks. Relax and raise your glass to the days ahead at this evening’s welcome reception.

The Netherlands’ capital city is a treasure trove of architectural beauty, masterpiece-filled galleries, tranquil scenes of boats putting along 16th-century canals, narrow cobbled laneways filled with boutiques and cafes, and streets busy with cyclists criss-crossing their way about town. Often referred to as the Venice of the North, much of the UNESCO-listed canal system exists today as it did hundreds of years ago, lined with well-preserved canal houses and intersected by charming bridges.   Freechoice: The choice is yours, explore your way with today’s Scenic Freechoice: Canal cruise: Amsterdam has more than 100 kilometres of canals and today you can see some of the prettiest sights of the city from these historical waterways. This one-hour cruise takes you along the Gentleman’s Canal, where you will see The Skinny Bridge, and The Prince’s Canal, which was known for its warehouses. You will go past the Old Lord Mayor’s House, The Seven Bridges, Anne Frank’s House and head to the Brewer’s Canal. As the historic centre glides past, you can admire the elegant merchant’s residences, churches and warehouses, dating from the Golden Age. City walking tour: Explore Amsterdam on foot today, discovering the maze of canals and bridges in the city centre. Your guide will be covering history, modern lifestyle and Dutch culture. You also get to taste herring, a local delicacy not to be missed Fabrique de Lumiere: Art springs to life in this impressive digital art installation, the largest in the Netherlands. Located in a former 19th-century gas works, pieces from renowned artists are projected onto the 17-metre-high walls, accompanied and complemented by music. Cycling tour: Take a small ferry to the outskirts of town for a biking tour. Amsterdam is known as the bicycle capital of the world, with more bikes than cars and more than 35,000 kilometres of cycle paths. Your local guide will be at hand to offer information about everyday life of the Dutch people, many of whom you will see getting around on two wheels.

You will arrive in Cologne after lunch. This is a city known for its liberal and laidback lifestyle, a unique beer culture, thriving auto industry and the jaw-dropping cathedral that dominates its skyline. Settled by the Romans, this major cultural centre for the Rhineland was built during the Middle Ages but was largely destroyed during WWII. The magnificent Gothic cathedral, an enormous World Heritage site that dates to 1248, was badly damaged but stood tall above the ruins of the city.   Freechoice: Choose from a selection of Scenic Freechoice options this afternoon. Walking tour of Cologne: Discover Cologne on a walking tour. Wander the laneways of the historical Old Town, which is home to breweries serving up draft Kolsch beer and enjoy free time to visit the citys centrepiece and icon, Cologne Cathedral. You will have further free time afterwards to explore the city on your own. Cologne’s Cologne: Learn about one of the city’s namesakes, Eau du Cologne, on a guided tour of the Farina Museum, founded by John Maria Farina in 1709. Discover three centuries of fragrance and the history of Eau de Cologne. Rev up at Motorworld: Germany is synonymous with the motor industry, and you can learn about the rich heritage at Motorworld. Formally an aircraft hangar, this impressive showroom comprises vintage, classic and Formula 1 vehicles as well as the official private collection of original memorabilia of Formula 1 legend Michael Schumacher. 

You will arrive in Koblenz this morning. Located where the Rhine and Moselle rivers meet, Koblenz is a medley of French and German cultures, and one of Germany’s oldest cities with a history spanning 2,000 years. Koblenz is surrounded by vineyards, forest and mountain ranges and is also known as the gateway to the Upper Middle Rhine Valley.   Freechoice: This morning explore the way you want with Scenic Freechoice: Guided walking tour of Koblenz: Follow your guide through one of the oldest cities in Germany. Explore the Florinsmarkt, the former political and economic centre of the city. On your way through the winding streets of the old town you will see impressive townhouses, each with its own unique history, charming squares and historic churches. Excursion to Cochem: Journey to the town of Cochem, a medieval gem resting on the banks of the Moselle River. Cochem will make you feel as if you are stepping directly into a medieval romance; the traditional town is nestled on the riverbanks, with pastel-coloured buildings, half-timbered houses, cobbled laneways and an enchanting hilltop castle surrounded by sloped vineyards. You will transfer via minibus to Reichsburg Castle, which dates to the Middle Ages. Enjoy a guided tour of the castle, which features a knight’s hall, trophy room and cellars, before wandering down to the Old Town seeing many historic buildings along the way. Kayaking on the Lahn river: The scenery along the Lahn river is some of the most beautiful among Europe’s waterways with rolling hills blanketed in vineyards and charming villages dotting the banks. See this region from the river as you glide along on a kayak. After lunch you will cruise along the spectacular UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge in the Upper Middle Rhine Valley. This 65-kilometre stretch of the river is dotted with some 40 hilltop castles and fortresses that span a period of 1,000 years. Sailing down this section of the river is like being transported through the pages of a fairytale.   The Rhine abounds in myths and legends; folklore that has been passed on for generations, including the story of Lorelei. This enchanting woman was betrayed by her sweetheart and spent her days bewitching men. As her punishment, she was sent to a nunnery, however on her way she jumped to her death in the river. Legend has her spirit cast spells on sailors who passed the rock, where a bronze statue sits today.   

Arrive in Mannheim early this morning. Known as a ‘chessboard city’ for its streets that were methodically laid out like a grid in the 17th century, as well as being home to some of the world’s most brilliant engineering minds, including Carl Benz, founder of Mercedes-Benz who set up his workshop in the city. Nearby, the city of Heidelberg is a truly romantic setting, with an 18th-century arch bridge that straddles the Necker River and a 16th-century ruined castle on the hillside looming above town.   Freechoice: Today there are a selection of Scenic Freechoice on offer: Orientation Tour of Heidelberg with free time: From Mannheim, you will transfer by coach to Heidelberg. Enjoy a brief walking tour of Heidelberg, including the old town, and then enjoy ample free time to explore on your own. The walking tour is not too strenuous but there are some stairs and uneven ground. Historical tour of Heidelberg: As well as a guided tour of Heidelberg, this excursion includes a visit to Heidelberg Castle, one of the most important Renaissance structures north of the Alps. Explore the courtyard, the balcony that offers an incredible view over the Old Town and view the great Heidelberg Tun, the world’s largest Wine Barrel located in the castle’s Cellar. Enjoy a short amount of free time before returning to your Scenic Space-Ship via coach. The walking tour is not too strenuous but there are some stairs and uneven ground. Excursion to Bad Durkheim: From Mannheim, it’s a short drive through stunning vine-covered landscapes to Bad Durkheim. On arrival, visit Fitz Ritter, a 9th generation family-owned vineyard that offers exceptional quality wine.  You will have the opportunity to taste some during your guided tour. This afternoon your Scenic Space-Ship will cruise towards Rastatt, home to an elegant, perfectly proportioned Baroque palace, which will be the setting for tonight’s Scenic Enrich.   Enrich Private classical concert at the Baroque Palace of Rastatt: One of the most magnificent historic venues in the region, this will be an evening of grandeur unlike any other (Rastatt available on select dates, alternate venue Brushal Palace). Travel to the palace by coach, where you will receive a drink upon arrival and have time to explore the opulent palace and gardens, which was modelled on Versailles and took almost a decade to complete. The performance will take place on the second floor, and will feature accomplished musicians and a soloist.

This morning you will wake in Rastatt. Enjoy a delicious, hearty breakfast in Crystal Dining before your excursion to Baden Baden, famous for its Roman baths. Located on the fringes of the Black Forest, this luxurious town was a favoured summer escape during the Belle Epoque period of the 1870s and is World Heritage listed as part of the Great Spa Towns of Europe. It oozes relaxation,with tranquil green spaces, pretty public gardens, and grand historical architecture.    Freechoice: Choose to spend this morning the way you want with Scenic Freechoice: Walking tour of Baden Baden: Walk in the steps of the upper class, who enjoyed this spa town as a summer retreat in the 19th century. See the elegant Kurhaus spa resort, built in the 1820s with a casino and luxury shopping in its colonnade, and explore the remains of Roman baths. Spa visit: What better way to enjoy the splendours of the town than relaxing and rejuvenating in the thermal baths of the Caracella Spa, permanently and naturally heated by thermal waters some 2,000 metres under the Earth’s surface. Comprising numerous baths, guests can soak in these waters said to possess healing properties, at your leisure. Schloss Favorite: Originally built as a hunting lodge and summer palace for Margravine Sibylla Augusta, who ruled Baden-Baden in the early 18th century when her husband Louis William, margrave of Baden-Baden, died of a war injury. The palace was only used for several weeks each year, and houses a large collection of fine porcelain. It is the oldest of the German ‘porcelain palaces’ and the only one to survive intact to this day.  This afternoon, return to your Scenic Space-Ship for lunch and take the time to relax on board. Soak up the opulence of your suite, many of which have a window that converts into a Scenic Sun Lounge, allowing you uninterrupted views of the Rhine. If you feel like something more active after your morning in the spa town, head to the state-of-the-art gym for an invigorating workout.

Awake in the city of Kehl, the gateway to Strasbourg. It’s the capital city of the Alsace region, where sherbet-coloured, half-timbered houses heave together on the banks of a complex network of canals. On its central island, the UNESCO-listed Grand Ile, is the Petite France district, so named for the 15th century hospital that was built here for patients suffering from syphilis, ‘the French disease’. It is also known as the Tanners’ Quarters, thanks to its medieval industries. Its meandering cobbled laneways are lined with a medley of buildings with shuttered windows and bright flowerboxes. Freechoice: Choose to visit Strasbourg or other sights of the region with this today’s Scenic Freechoice: Active walking tour of Strasbourg: Enjoy a guided walking tour of the charming town of Strasbourg, seeing many of the most important sights of the city including the Cathedral, Petit France, the Grand Ile, and many half-timbered houses and beautiful canals. Strasbourg is located on the border of France and Germany and ownership of the town has changed hands many times between the two countries. Due to this, Strasbourg is a unique mixture of both French and German architecture and culture. You will be driven to Strasbourg, passing many notable sites, including the European Parliament on your way. Excursion to Mittelbergheim: The French Alsace region is a culturally diverse wine-growing area that shares its border with Germany and Switzerland. Guests will visit the village of Mittelbergheim, a member of the Les Plus Beaux Villages de France (the most beautiful villages in France) association. In Mittelbergheim, guests will visit a local wine cellar for a tasting before visiting the town of Obernai. This enchanting town has retained its traditional character with medieval defences, fortified towers and half-timbered houses. You’ll have free time to explore at your own pace. Black Forest: Journey into the Black Forest to the open-air museum of Vogtsbauernhof, which is home to a collection of historic farmhouses that show how people have lived in the region for 600 years, as well as exhibitions of traditional handicrafts and local products. During your visit, sample some of the iconic Black Forest Cake and learn how it is made during a baking demonstration.

Disembark this morning, where your journey starts with a dive into the gooey cheese culture of Montreux.  Enrich Todays Scenic Enrich All aboard the cheese train: Delight in a panoramic train journey to Château-d’Oex. Upon arrival you’ll view traditional cheese-making at the Restaurant Le Chalet. The restaurant makes its own cheese, and in a wonderful demonstration, the cheesemaker will transform milk into hard cheese right in front of your eyes.   After a heartwarming lunch you will arrive in the lakeside town of Montreux. It sits on the edge of Lake Geneva, one of the largest lakes in Western Europe that is shared between Switzerland and France. Montreux is known as the Swiss Riviera for its stunning scenery, charming waterfront, perfect climate and chic lifestyle.  Check in to your hotel. Its just a few steps from the shore of the lake, and offers elegant rooms, fine Swiss cuisine and an indulgent spa.

Why not take the opportunity to wake early and walk along a section of the path that runs around the shore of Lake Geneva. There are beautiful views over the calm water, with boats bobbing at anchor and mountains in the distance. You can join the path right out the front of the hotel.   Today we will venture to the neighbouring town of Vevey, often referred to as one of the ‘Pearls of the Riviera’ and the one-time home of comedian, Charlie Chaplin. Here you will enjoy a visit to Chaplin’s World, a museum dedicated to the life and works of the renowned actor and film maker.  After returning to Montreux, you will have a free afternoon to enjoy the splendours of this beautiful lake side city.

It’s back on the road this morning for your first taste of the Swiss Alps in the village of Gstaad. A favourite with the international jet set, Gstaad is renowned as a ski resort in winter and an outdoor adventure playground in summer. The first thing you’ll see is the magnificent Gstaad Palace hotel, which looks like a fairytale castle perched above the tiny village. Stroll through the chic shopping district and admire the jaw-dropping view Arriving in Bern, the capital of Switzerland, check in to your luxurious hotel for some well-deserved rest. Set next to the Parliament building, it’s been the official hotel of the Swiss government, visiting royalty and stylish celebrities for 150 years.

From Bern, travel through the impossibly pretty town of Lucerne. Perched on the edge of the spectacular Lake Lucerne, you’ll find exquisite medieval architecture, a 685-year-old wooden footbridge (the oldest in Europe), and glimpses of the majestic Alps in the distance.  This afternoon we arrive in the city of Zurich, the largest in the country and one of the most liveable in the world. Here, residents cycle along wide streets, relax in leafy parks and dine under the stars in open-air restaurants. It’s known as a global financial centre, but there’s also one of Europe’s most eclectic cultural scenes, world-class contemporary art and a fascinating history.  Set off on foot this afternoon for a walking tour with a local guide. Zurich is one of the world’s great walking cities, with a flat centre, many pedestrian-only streets and historic bridges. Wander along the Bahnhofstrasse, the city’s main street that’s lined with glamorous boutiques and international flagship stores. Straddling both sides of the Limmat River, Zurich’s Old Town is a pleasant jumble of tiny laneways, cobbled squares and medieval buildings. Don’t miss St Peter’s Church, where the original 9th century foundations are still visible beneath the chancel and the iconic twin towers of the Grossmünster church.  Check in to your historic hotel, set opposite the main train station and just metres away from the stylish Bahnhofstrasse shopping strip. One of Switzerland’s original Grand Hotels, the Schweizerhof has been welcoming guests from around the world for more than 140 years.

After one final sumptuous breakfast – and a last cup of delectable Swiss hot chocolate – it’s time to say farewell to Switzerland.