Depart the USA on your overnight flight to Amsterdam, the Netherlands.
Welcome to the Netherlands. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted at the airport by an Emerald Cruises representative and transferred to your Emerald Star-Ship, where your friendly captain and crew will be waiting to greet you. Meal: D
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 colors. Soak in the sights of tulips, hyacinths, and orchids of every color, creating an expertly arranged pattern of beauty. You will also see statues commissioned by world-renowned artists, each adopting the annual theme. Meals: B, L, D
EmeraldPLUS: Clog painting on board
DiscoverMORE: Dutch Delights (extra expense)
This morning, you’ll cross the German border and arrive in the vibrant city of Düsseldorf. Discover the vibrant city of Düsseldorf on a guided walking tour that takes you through its cultural landmarks and picturesque streets. During the tour, you can also explore the historic Altstadt and modern cityscape. Join your local guide and explore the city of Cologne, including the Old Town with its beautiful squares, historic monuments and contemporary architecture. You will conclude at the World Heritage-listed Cologne Cathedral, whose filigree twin towers form an iconic part of the skyline. During your free time, shop for trinkets or explore further before returning to your Emerald Star-Ship. Meals: B, L, D
EmeraldACTIVE: Active walk to Düsseldorf Gardens
EmeraldACTIVE: Active walk to Cologne’s Gardens
DiscoverMORE: German beer experience (extra expense)
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 arguably the striking Baroque Mannheim Palace, one of the largest palaces in Europe. Travel to nearby Heidelberg, an idyllic 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 remnants of Heidelberg Castle, where carefully curated gardens are still peppered with serene water features, sculptures and colorful flowerbeds. Cruise onwards to Germersheim tonight for an exclusive concert at Bruchsal Palace. Meals: B, L, D
EmeraldACTIVE: Guided vineyard hike in Bad-Dürkheim
EmeraldPLUS: Evening Concert at Bruchsal Palace
Today, you’ll arrive in Strasbourg, a city that promises much in the way of beautiful architecture. 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. Meals: B, L, D
EmeraldACTIVE: Active walk to Orangerie Park
DiscoverMORE: Baden Baden Spa experience (extra expense)
Set high above the Rhine at the point where the Black Forest joins Alsace, Breisach presents a charming blend of German and French cultures. Today, discover the enchanting city of Freiburg, nestled amidst the Black Forest. Explore its historic center, lined with colorful 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. Meals: B, L, D
EmeraldACTIVE: Guided e-bike tour in Breisach
DiscoverMORE: Guided tour of Colmar (extra expense)
Welcome to Switzerland and the riverside city of Basel (Huningue). Your morning will begin with a guided tour of beautiful Lucerne, touching on its well-preserved medieval Altstadt, delightful waterfront promenades and colorful buildings that highlight the Swiss city’s distinctive character. Meal: B
Enjoy time at leisure to explore more of this enchanting Swiss city. Perhaps delving deeper into the charming Old Town or taking a stroll along the picturesque shores of Lake Lucerne. You can also choose to join an optional Emerald DiscoverMORE excursion; your tour director will be more than happy to help you plan your explorations in Lucerne. Meal: B
DiscoverMORE: Tastes of Switzerland (extra expense)
DiscoverMORE: Train & cable car ride to Rigi–Weggis (extra expense)
This morning, you’ll be transferred by coach from Lucerne to the cosmopolitan Swiss city of Zurich for your one-night included hotel stay. Explore Zurich on a guided tour, featuring the Bahnhofstrasse and the Romanesque Cathedral. Enjoy views from the city’s oldest quarters and visit the Frauenkirche before relaxing at the lakeside park. Meal: B
This morning, after breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to your fellow guests as you depart from your hotel for the transfer to the airport, taking memories of breathtaking natural scenery, Swiss traditions and medieval splendor with you. Meal: B
