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London, Jewels of the Rhine & Swiss Glaciers: 14 days London to Zurich

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Operated by Emerald Cruises
Tripcode: NZ-c50d841c3be82b960
Overview
Destination:
Switzerland
United Kingdom
Start:London, United Kingdom
Finish:Zurich, Switzerland
Duration:14 days
Style:
Cruise,
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.
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 director
  • Port taxes and charges
  • All tipping and gratuities
  • Excursion to Alkmaar
  • Walking tour of Duesseldorf
  • Guided tour of Cologne’s Old Town
  • Walking tour of Koblenz
  • Guided tour of Heidelberg
  • Flavors of Alsace
  • 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
  • 6 Breakfasts (B)
  • 2 nights at a hotel in Zermatt
  • 1 night at a hotel in Zurich
  • A guided tour of Zermatt
  • Glacier Express Train from Zermatt to Chur
  • Transfer to/from the ship and to/from the airport
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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

oin 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 (exra 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 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)

Day 6 - Duesseldorf - Cologne

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)

Day 7 - Koblenz

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)

Day 8 - Germersheim

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

Day 9 - Kehl – Strasbourg

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)

Day 10 - Breisach - Freiburg

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)

Day 11 - Basel – Zermatt

Welcome to Switzerland and the quaint Rhine-side town of Basel. After breakfast, you will be transferred by coach to mountain resort village of Zermatt, including a two-night stay. 

Day 12 - Zermatt

Zermatt lies at the foot of the Matterhorn, which could be described of one of the world's most famous mountains. This picturesque village entrenched on the Swiss Alps is also a sustainable destination for being car-free zone, and for having its original character preserved. Enjoy a guided walking tour in this elegant village. In the afternoon, enjoy free time or take part on the DiscoverMORE tour cog rail journey from Zermatt to the 3089-metre-high Gornergrat mountain summit.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Zermatt

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Visit to Gornergrat Matterhorn (extra expense)

Day 13 - Zermatt –Zurich

This morning, you will experience the highlight of this tour, which is the rail journey through the Swiss Alps, know as the Glacier Express. Sit back and relax while contemplating at the amazing views of the Alps. When you arrive at the station, you will be taken by coach to Zurich for your overnight stay.

Day 14 - Zurich

After breakfast, it is time to bid farewell to your fellow guests and transfer to the airport, taking with you cherished memories of the Rhine and Swiss mountain landscapes.

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.

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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