Discover Europe’s most popular river cruises
Welcome to Denmark and Copenhagen, the fascinating capital city that is home to centuries of Danish royal family history. You'll be transferred from the airport to your hotel for your included 3-night stay, where you'll meet your fellow travellers and tour director.
Today, join a guided city tour and enthralling journey through the heart of Denmark's capital, where rich historical landmarks blend with picturesque waterways. As you glide through the serene canals, you'll pass by charming old buildings and iconic sights, such as the colourful Nyhavn district, where prolific Danish author Hans Christian Andersen, lived and drew inspiration for his literary fairy tales. Along the way, you'll also spot the regal Amalienborg Palace, the Copenhagen residence of the Danish royal family.
Included Excursion
Guided City tour of Copenhagen and Canal Cruise
Begin your day with a visit to the striking Christiansborg Palace, once the home to kings and queens and nowadays, seat of the Danish Parliament and Supreme Court.
The rest of the afternoon is yours to spend exploring Copenhagen at leisure, soaking up the sights of this enchanting Nordic city. You may wish to visit the world-famous Tivoli Gardens, or Rosenborg Castle, a four centuries-old Renaissance castle that houses the Danish crown jewels. Perhaps relax at one of Copenhagen's delightful café terraces, or sample traditional open-faced sandwiches with a cold beer at one of the capital’s many restaurants. Your tour director will be more than happy to help you plan your Copenhagen explorations.
EmeraldPLUS
Visit to Christiansborg Palace
This morning after breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to charming Copenhagen and transfer to the airport for your onward flight to The Netherlands and Amsterdam, where you'll embark on your Emerald Cruises luxury Star-Ship.
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)
After breakfast, it's time to say farewell to your Star-Ship and fellow guests and disembark for your transfer to the airport, taking memories of the Black Forest 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 Basel after 10:00 AM.
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Discover the world with Emerald Cruises. Whether you’re travelling to unspoilt islands or bustling metropolises, our fleet of river-cruising Star-Ships and ocean-going luxury yachts guarantee an unparalleled voyage. Enjoy modern exploration, pairing authentic adventures with inimitable luxury. Founded in 2013, and first sailing as Emerald Waterways in 2014, Emerald Cruises is an award-winning travel operator specialising in deluxe river cruises and luxury yacht cruises. Just one year later, in 2014, the first Star-Ship, Emerald Sky, set sail. Our extensive fleet of Star-Ships are custom-built to sail Europe’s iconic Rhine, Main, Moselle, Danube, Rhȏne, Saône and Douro rivers, as well as the majestic Mekong River in Southeast Asia, with each ship featuring a range of stylish innovations. Whether you’re travelling by river or sea, your luxury vessel will dock in the heart of amazing destinations. In 2024, we celebrate 10 years of Emerald Cruises by introducing the next generation of superyachts: Emerald Kaia, launching in early 2026.