Welcome to France and the beginning of your cruise. You’ll be met by a member of our team at the airport and transferred to Arles, where your friendly captain and crew will be waiting to welcome you on board your contemporary Emerald Cruises Star-Ship. This evening, enjoy a welcome reception and dine with your fellow guests.

Please book your flight to arrive into Nice prior to 12:00 PM.

Revel in the glory of the Roman Empire today during an insightful visit to Arles, including its UNESCO World Heritage-listed Roman and Romanesque monuments. Visit Arles Amphitheatre, a 2,000-year-old structure where thousands of spectators once gathered to watch heart-pounding chariot races. 
Enjoy learning about the time spent by Vincent van Gogh in the city, taking inspiration from his surroundings and using them to create many of his most iconic pieces of art, including ‘Starry Night Over the Rhône’. Then, enjoy some time to explore the beauty of Arles at your leisure. 

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Arles with arena visit 

EmeraldPLUS
A Provençal dinner hosted by chef Fabien Morreale

DiscoverMORE
Excursion to Les Baux de Provence (extra expense)

DiscoverMORE
Visit to L’Occitane Factory (extra expense)

Avignon has a long and storied history. This fortified town is the former residence of seven consecutive Popes in the 1300s who fled Rome to escape from the political pressures of the Roman Empire. The city went on to become an important location during the French Revolution. 
Embark on a guided walking tour to witness its illustrious past, including the ornate Gothic exterior of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Palais des Papes, built by the Popes over two decad es. This evening you are invited to join the unique experience of a classical concert in Avignon. 

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Avignon

EmeraldPLUS
Classical concert in Avignon

EmeraldACTIVE
Canoeing excursion in Avignon

DiscoverMORE
Guided tour of the Pont du Gard (extra expense)

DiscoverMORE
Private hidden Gems tours of Avignon (extra expense)

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

A snapshot of quintessential France awaits your arrival in Viviers, a town that perfectly encapsulates the medieval days of the region. Pastel coloured buildings gently faded by the sun line narrow cobblestone streets, and the heart of the Old Town is yours to explore today during a guided walking tour. 

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Viviers

DiscoverMORE
Visit to Chauvet Pont D’Arc (extra expense)

As we sail down the gently twisting Rhône River into Tournon, you’ll be treated to an extraordinary view of a 16th-century castle overlooking the village and a pair of ancient watchtowers adorning the surrounding rural landscape. 
Today, embark on a guided tour of Tournon and learn about its illustrious history and the culture of the people who call it home. If you would like to explore more of the region’s natural beauty, then you may instead choose to embark on an EmeraldACTIVE hike through some of the local vineyards.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Tournon

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided hike through the vineyards

As one of the largest cities in France and a former Roman capital, many of the most important moments in French history have taken place in Lyon. But it’s Lyonnaise cuisine that has really put this city on the map, delighting gastronomists from around the world. 

Join your local guide for a walking tour of the city, including the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Basilica Notre-Dame de Fourvière. If you’re feeling more active, then you may instead choose to embark on a guided bike tour, touching on its most prominent architectural wonders and moments from history.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Lyon

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided bike tour of Lyon

DiscoverMORE
Excursion to Pérouges (extra expense)

DiscoverMORE
Private Culinary Charms of Lyon (extra expense)

The birthplace of photography and the centre of Burgundy’s wine region is yours to discover today as you travel by road to the quaint village of Beaune. Stop to visit the Hospices de Beaune, one of the best-preserved examples of 15th-century French architecture and home to one of the most popular wine auctions in the country. 

Included Excursion
Visit to the Hospices de Beaune

EmeraldPLUS
Cheese and olive tasting on board

Enjoy your last breakfast on the Rhone before you get transferred to your new experience on the Rhine River where legendary castles and fairytale landscapes await you.

Today, as part of your marvellous EmeraldPLUS experience, you’ll visit the delightful city of Freiburg. Considered the 'Capital of the Black Forest', Freiburg reveals lovely sights that will amaze you and you’ll have the opportunity to sample authentic Black Forest delicacies. If you're feeling more active, you can choose to join a guided bike tour in Breisach.

EmeraldPLUS
Guided tour of Freiburg with tasting

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided bike tour in Breisach

DiscoverMORE
Guided tour of Colmar (extra expense)

This morning, you'll arrive in Kehl and disembark your Star-Ship, then be transferred by coach to the picturesque town of Strasbourg. Here, an enthralling medieval past is yours to discover, including quaint cobblestone squares framed by well-preserved, half-timbered houses. During your included excursion, you’ll also have the opportunity to discover the heart of Alsace in Strasbourg and embark on a culinary journey where you’ll discover typical flavours of this region. Alternatively, join a guided hike through the scenic Alsace region.

Included Excursion
Flavours of Alsace

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided hike in Alsace

DiscoverMORE
Baden Baden Spa Experience (extra epxense)

This morning, relax on board your Star-Ship as you sail towards Germersheim, following the meandering Rhine River and passing the confluence of the Rhine and Neckar. Then travel by coach to Heidelberg, where you’ll have the opportunity to learn about how this became a UNESCO City of Literature, having inspired luminaries such as American writer Mark Twain and British artist, William Turner, with its stunning historical setting.
Your guided tour of Heidelberg will allow you to find your own inspiration among its dreamy  landmarks, including Heidelberg Castle, one of the most impressive Renaissance ruins in all of Europe. Alternatively, revel in a guided hike from Mount Königstuhl to Heidelberg. Tonight, as part of your  EmeraldPLUS experience, you’re invited to join an exclusive private concert within a historical venue.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Heidelberg

EmeraldACTIVE
Active hike from Mount Königstuhl to Heidelberg

EmeraldPLUS
Private evening concert along the Rhine

Today, cruise to the 2,000-year-old town of Koblenz and discover its fairy tale-like surrounds, nestled on the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers. Your local guide will take you through this Roman-era town, taking in the twin-towered façade of the Church of Our Lady and the German Corner, where these two inspirational waterways converge. 

Included Excursion
Orientation Walk of Koblenz

DiscoverMORE
Moselle Valley & Cochem Castle visit (extra expense)

This morning, you’ll have the opportunity to explore Cologne at your own pace, one of Germany’s oldest cities that is steeped in history and folklore.

After lunch, 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. Immerse yourself in the city's lively atmosphere, indulge in the delicious local cuisine, and marvel at the contrast of Düsseldorf’s ancient and modern charms.

Included Excursion
Walking tour of Düsseldorf

DiscoverMORE
Cologne Beer Experience (extra expense)

This morning, discover charming Alkmaar, a picturesque Dutch town just a short distance from the iconic city of Amsterdam.  Explore its historic centre, lined with scenic 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 quintessential Dutch town. Alternatively, embark on a bike tour through the Dutch countryside, cycling past traditional windmills.

Included Excursion
Excursion to Alkmaar

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided bike tour to Waterland

DiscoverMORE
Private hidden Gems tour of Amsterdam (extra expense)

DiscoverMORE
Dutch Delights (extra expense)

Today you have a full day in Amsterdam where you can discover some of the hidden gems of the Dutch capital before your European journey continues to the Rhine, Main & Danube rivers.

This morning, explore the Dutch Golden Age, as you board a glass-top canal boat cruise to explore the UNESCO World Heritage-listed canal system or enjoy a guided bike tour to Waterland. 

Both excellent ways to experience the city in all its authenticity, take to its charming waterways, passing iconic buildings and elegant merchant residences that reflect a time when Amsterdam was one of the most lucrative ports in the world. If you’re feeling more active, then explore on two wheels, cycling alongside a backdrop of historical villages and traditional windmills. 

Upon returning to your ship, your first day of sailing will take you through the Dutch countryside to the Rhine River. 

Included Excursion
Canal cruise

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided bike tour to Waterland

Founded by the Romans in 50 AD, the cathedral city of Cologne is one of the oldest cities in Germany and the largest on the Rhine. The historic capital of the Rhineland, this illustrious city has been generously peppered with ancient architecture, from Roman ruins to medieval structures, despite much of the inner city being completely destroyed during WWII. 

Join your local guide and explore the city, including the Old Town with its beautiful squares, historic monuments and contemporary architecture. Your tour will conclude at the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cologne Cathedral, whose filigree twin towers form an iconic part of the skyline. During your free time, shop for souvenirs or explore further before returning to your Star-Ship. 

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Cologne’s Old Town

Today’s cruising will be a highlight of your trip, as we meander through the fairy tale-like surrounds of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge. Hilltop castles and fortresses will be yours to admire as we sail. We will pass the infamous Lorelai Rock, where sailors are said to have been lured onto treacherous rocks by an enchanting siren, and the impressive Pfalzgrafenstein Castle, a former stronghold. 

This afternoon, arrive in Rüdesheim, a town with a vibrant wine-growing heritage. You will have the choice of either riding on the Winzerexpress and visiting Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet Museum or, if you're feeling active, taking an active hike to Niederwalddenkmal.  

Included Excursion
Visit to Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet Museum

EmeraldACTIVE
Active Walk to Niederwalddenkmal

Welcome to Miltenberg, a picturesque village on the Main River, boasting an inimitable feeling of medieval Bavaria with its 15th century half-timbered buildings. 

On your included walking tour, stroll down the cobblestone streets, lined with these colourful houses and view the Gothic Merchant Hall, an impressive symbol of past affluence. You could also enjoy an active walk through the forest to Mildenburg Castle. This iconic landmark now houses a wonderful collection of contemporary art and old masters. 

Later, we’ll venture to the charming town of Wertheim where, as part of your EmeraldPLUS programme, you’ll have an exclusive glassblowing presentation at the Glass Art Museum. 

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

Known as the ‘Pearl of the Romantic Road’, Würzburg, is the centre for grape-growing, the product of the sloping vineyard-laden hills which surround the former capital of Franconia. The architects behind the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Würzburg Residence drew inspiration from a spectrum of different styles, including Viennese Baroque and secular features from Italy, but it was heavily damaged during WWII. Enjoy learning about how this impressive building was restored to its former glory on a guided tour. 

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

DiscoverMORE
Excursion to Rothenburg (extra expense)

This morning, relax on board and witness the beauty of Europe’s waterways from the plush surrounds of your cabin as we cruise to Bamberg. The UNESCO World Heritage-listed town boasts one of the largest medieval centres in Europe, with around 2,400 listed buildings gracing its streets. 

Feel the magic of the past as you explore the city with your local guide, marvelling at the opulence of the New Residence, once resided in by the prince bishops and now home to a plethora of old German and Baroque paintings from the Bavarian State collection. Enjoy a tranquil stroll around the Rose Garden to round your day off peacefully. 

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Bamberg

Embark on a sightseeing tour of the historic city of Nuremberg, including the architectural wonders that have inspired famous artists for centuries and exploring the effects that the war years had. After your tour, enjoy time to explore Nuremberg at leisure, passing half-timbered houses that were beautifully reconstructed following the war. 

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Nuremberg

DiscoverMORE
World War II tour (extra expense)

This morning, you’ll sail the final stretch of the fascinating Main-Danube Canal to Regensburg. As you continue sailing down the Danube, one of Germany’s best-preserved medieval cities welcomes you with two millennia of history. For almost 150 years, the Old Town Hall was the seat of parliament. Dating back to the 13th century, it consists of the Town Hall Tower, the Imperial Chamber building, and the Town Hall. Wander the streets with your guide, as the romantic narrow alleys of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town enable you to live through the city’s history. 

The main highlight of your tour will be the 12th-century Stone Bridge, a medieval structure crossing the Danube. Enjoy time to explore Regensburg at leisure after your guided tour or return to your Star-Ship for some peace and tranquillity. Later today, enjoy a traditional Bavarian band performance on board. 

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Regensburg

EmeraldPLUS
Bavarian band performance on board

DiscoverMORE
Sausage-making workshop (extra expense)

Passau is a picturesque city that has been shaped by the surrounding rivers over the years, sitting right on the confluence of the Danube, Inn and Ilz. This memorable destination is dominated by large squares, magical promenades and romantic lanes. Cobblestone streets and graceful arcades welcome you in the beautiful city of Passau. On this morning’s walking tour, stroll through streets lined by Baroque buildings dating back to the 17th century and look at the Gothic Town Hall, Bishop’s Residence and St. Stephen’s Cathedral, a wonderful example of Baroque architecture and home to the largest church organ in Europe. 

Return for lunch on board and an afternoon peacefully cruising along the Danube.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Passau

DiscoverMORE
Excursion to Salzburg (extra expense)

DiscoverMORE
Excursion to Ceský Krumlov (extra expense)

Situated within Austria’s wine-growing region, Melk is home to a 900-year-old Benedictine abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, which is yours to explore today during an included tour. Your guide will take you through a series of opulent rooms, each adorned with the finest Italian Baroque architecture and ornate gold leaf walls, including the ancient monastic library, renowned for its extensive collection of medieval manuscripts. 

Later, the Star-Ship sails through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Wachau Valley and on to Dürnstein, one of the most enchanting villages in the Wachau wine region, where you can choose to hike to Dürnstein Castle, the site where Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned after returning from the Crusades. 

Alternatively, enjoy an EmeraldACTIVE guided bike ride along the Danube from Melk to Dürnstein, passing famous vineyards and quaint towns. 

Included Excursion
Tour of Melk Abbey

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided bike tour along the Danube

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided hike to Dürnstein Castle

Austria’s breathtaking capital is recognised for its cultural legacy. As the former residence of Mozart and Beethoven, a multitude of imperial palaces represent a rich history, and the museum district boasts contemporary buildings, housing the work of some of the world’s most prolific artists. 

Explore the famous sights of the Ringstrasse and Vienna’s city centre by coach and on foot or join a guided bike tour. Marvel at the Renaissance-style arches that adorn the façades of the Opera House, the Baroque Burgtheater and the Flemish Gothic Parliament before enjoying time to explore Vienna at leisure. 

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Vienna

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided bike tour of Vienna

DiscoverMORE
Visit to Schönbrunn Palace (extra expense)

DiscoverMORE
Viennese evening concert (extra expense)

Set at the crossroads of ancient trade routes in the heart of Europe, Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, is a place where Baroque palaces, boutiques and cafés adorn cobblestone streets. In the morning, enjoy a sightseeing tour, including the enchanting Old City or hike to Bratislava Castle. 

Your local guide will take you through the heart of the city. Pass by the botanical gardens of the Episcopal Summer Palace, the Old Town Hall and its delightful Renaissance courtyard and the Slovak National Theatre, where busts of famous composers adorn the façade. After your tour, enjoy free time to explore at leisure.  

This afternoon, a local family will be happy to welcome you into their home for some great conversation 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

DiscoverMORE
Skoda tour of post-Communist Bratislava (extra expense)

DiscoverMORE
Carpathian wine route (extra expense)

Budapest is Eastern Europe’s liveliest and most cosmopolitan city. Divided by the iconic Danube River, Buda and Pest on either side can be reached via the Chain Bridge, one of the city’s most symbolic structures. 

Enjoy a guided tour of the city with your local guide this morning. Alternatively, embark on a hike to Gellert Hill.  This evening, you will enjoy a Hungarian folklore show before your farewell dinner. 

Included Excursion
Guided coach tour of Budapest

EmeraldPLUS
Traditional Hungarian folklore show on board

EmeraldACTIVE
Hike to Gellert Hill

DiscoverMORE
Excursion to Szentendre (extra expense)

DiscoverMORE
Jewish heritage tour (extra expense)

After breakfast, it's time to say farewell to your fellow guests and disembark your Star-Ship for your transfer to the airport, taking memories of the delightful Danube 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 note: Preview itinerary subject to change.