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London & Jewels of the Rhine: 11 days London to Basel

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Operated by Emerald Cruises
Tripcode: NZ-b8cea896b5cb078e8
Overview
Destination:
Switzerland
United Kingdom
Start:London, United Kingdom
Finish:Basel, Switzerland
Duration:11 days
Style:
River/Small ship/Barge,
Travel Period
July 2026 - September 2026

Discover Europe’s most popular river cruises

A classic journey on the Rhine, Main, and Danube rivers promises spectacular landscapes, rich culture, and fascinating history, where world-class cities are complemented by romantic towns.
Discover London, then explore modern and quintessential Holland on a glass-top canal boat cruise through Amsterdam, before sailing through the countryside and witnessing traditional windmills. Enjoy a guided walking tour of magnificent Cologne and the juxtaposition of ancient Koblenz, continuing upstream to Heidelberg. Soak up Strasbourg’s beautiful architecture and visit Freiburg a Black Forest destination.
Standard inclusions
  • 7 nights on board an Emerald Cruises Star-Ship
  • Airport transfers to and from your Star-Ship
  • The services of an Emerald Cruises cruise directo
  • Port taxes and charge
  • All tipping and gratuities
  • Canal cruise in Amsterdam
  • Guided tour of Cologne's Old Town
  • Walking tour of Koblenz
  • Guided tour of Heidelberg
  • Guided tour of Strasbourg
  • Guided tour of Freiburg with tasting
  • Private Evening Concert on the Rhine
  • Guided bike tour to Waterland
  • Active hike from Mount Königstuhl to Heidelberg
  • Guided bike tour in Breisach
  • 20 delectable meals including 7 breakfasts (B), 6 lunches (L), 7 dinners (D)
  • Including a Welcome and Farewell Reception & Dinner
  • Complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks served with lunch and dinner on board
  • 3 nights at a London hotel
  • Guided tour of London
  • Transfer from the airport and to the ship
  • 3 Breakfasts (B)
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Itinerary
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Day 1 - London

Welcome to London, the historic capital of Great Britain. Upon arrival at the airport, you’ll be transferred to your hotel for your exciting 3-night stay in this enthralling city. Feel free to rest and relax, ready for your marvelous adventure ahead, or explore this centuries-old, multicultural metropolis at your own pace. Immerse yourself in London’s vibrant atmosphere, wander through London’s history-drenched streets, or enjoy a leisurely stroll along the River Thames or through its beautiful urban parks.

Day 2 - London

Join a guided city tour to discover some of London’s most iconic and historical landmarks, including 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.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of London

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Afternoon tea (extra expense)

Day 3 - London

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.

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Guided Tour of Camden and Borough Market (extra expense)

Day 4 - London - Amsterdam

This morning after breakfast, you’ll be transferred from your London hotel to St. Pancras station, where you’ll join the train bound for The Netherlands and Amsterdam Centraal station. Upon arrival in this delightful Dutch city, you’ll then embark on your luxury European cruise, taking with you memories of impressive London landmarks, captivating royal heritage and traditional  English afternoon tea.

Day 5 - Amsterdam

This morning, discover the charms of Alkmaar, a picturesque Dutch town a short distance from Amsterdam. Explore Alkmaar’s historic centre, brimming 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 typically charming town. Alternatively, embark on a bike tour through the outlying Dutch countryside.

In the afternoon, sit back and relax as you cruise along the  Rhine River, perhaps enjoying a drink on the Sun Deck and watching the wondrous scenery passing by. Later, join your fellow guests for a welcome dinner on board.

Included Excursion
Excursion to Alkmaar

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided bike tour to Waterland

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Dutch Delights (extra expense)

Day 6 - Düsseldorf - Cologne

Today, 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 today, you’ll arrive in Cologne, one of Germany’s oldest cities,  famous for its UNESCO World Heritage-listed, Gothic Cathedral.

Included Excursion
Walking tour of Duesseldorf

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Cologne beer experience (extra expense)

Day 7 - Koblenz

Immerse yourself in fairytale-like surroundings as we sail onwards to Koblenz, a town revealing a postcard-worthy backdrop of vineyards and mountain ranges. Your included walking tour of this Roman-era town will take in the twin-towered façade of the Church of Our Lady, the point at which two of Europe’s greatest rivers converge at the German Corner.

This afternoon, relish sailing through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge. Here, marvel at romantic castles dramatically resting atop tree-covered canyons and half-timbered medieval villages that appear almost suspended in time.

Included Excursion
Walking tour of Koblenz

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Moselle Valley & Cochem Castle visit (extra expense)

Day 8 - Heidelberg (Germersheim)

This morning, discover Heidelberg, a delightful UNESCO City of Literature that has inspired the likes of American writer, Mark Twain and British artist, William Turner. A guided tour of the town will unveil its rich history, starting at the Renaissance ruins of Heidelberg Castle, among the most important Renaissance structures north of the Alps. Here, carefully curated gardens are home to serene water features, sculptures and colourful flowerbeds.  If you’re feeling more active, you can also join a hike that will reveal panoramic views across Heidelberg. Tonight, as part of your EmeraldPLUS experience, you’re invited to join an enchanting private concert at a historical venue.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Heidelberg 

EmeraldACTIVE
Active hike from Mount Königstuhl to Heidelberg

EmeraldPLUS
Private Evening Concert along the Rhine

Day 9 - Kehl – Strasbourg

This morning, you'll arrive in Kehl and then be transferred by coach to the picturesque town of Strasbourg, where an enchanting medieval past awaits among 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 mouthwatering journey, discovering the traditional flavours of this region. Alternatively, join a guided hike in the heart of the Alsace region.

Included Excursion
Flavours of Alsace

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided hike in Alsace

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Baden Baden Spa Experience (extra expense)

Day 10 - Breisach - Freiburg

Today, as part of your marvellous EmeraldPLUS experience, you’ll visit the charming city of Freiburg. Considered the 'Capital of the Black Forest,’ Freiburg offers lovely sights that will amaze you. As part of your visit, you’ll also have the opportunity to sample authentic Black Forest delicacies. If you're feeling more active, 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)

Day 11 - Basel

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.  

Please book your flight to depart out of Basel after 10:00 AM.

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.

Departure dates

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Travellers

Operator
Emerald Cruises

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.

Important Information
*Terms and conditions
Please note: We are proud to be an independent agent to travel providers of hotels, flights and other related services. We are not a tour operator. Details and information on the offer are provided by 3rd party businesses and although we do our best to verify the information, we cannot guarantee its accuracy on all occasions. These offers are not available in conjunction with any other offer unless otherwise stated. Pricing and availability are subject to change without notice. For more information, please see Terms of Use
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