Straddling the northernmost tip of Lake Zurich, Zurich is one of the most beloved cities in Switzerland. Today, you will be able to explore the city at leisure, perhaps taking in its delightful lakeside setting or frequenting one of its many charming cafés. Included is a restful one-night stay in Zurich.

This morning, enjoy a walking tour of Zurich before you are transferred to Lucerne, an area known for its spectacular natural setting. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure to explore Lucerne, perhaps strolling down cobblestone streets in its colourful Altstadt.

Included Excursion
A guided tour of Zurich

The awe-inspiring natural beauty enveloping Lucerne is a true delight, and yours to discover today during a guided tour of this small city. Lucerne effortlessly reflects what most people imagine when they think of a Swiss city, with a backdrop of snow-capped mountain ranges and tree-lined boulevards cutting through the city centre. Enjoy learning about the history of Lucerne as you visit the well-preserved medieval Altstadt, Chapel Bridge and the octagonal Water Tower.

Included Excursion
A guided tour of Lucerne

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Train and cable car to Rigi - Weggis (extra expense)

This morning, journey by coach through idyllic landscapes as you carve a course to the Rhine-side town of Basel. When you arrive, you will be able to board your Emerald Cruises Star-Ship, where your friendly captain and crew will be waiting to welcome you. This evening, join your fellow guests for dinner on board.

Your journey through the heart of Europe will commence with a tour of Colmar. A magical place, Colmar resembles the imagery found within a beloved fairy tale. Your included tour of the town will enable you to traverse its cobblestone lanes, passing medieval half-timbered façades and window boxes full of brightly coloured flowers. If you’re feeling more active, you may instead wish to embark on a guided bike tour from Breisach to Colmar. 

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Colmar

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided bike tour to Colmar

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Guided tour of Freiburg with market tasting (extra expense)

This morning, your Star-Ship will dock in Kehl, where you will be transferred across the river to Strasbourg, a city perfectly encapsulating the region’s medieval charm. Strasbourg is a city best explored via its quaint waterways. You’ll explore the historic architecture on a canal tour through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city centre. 

Relax on board as you pass through the idyllic surrounds of Petite France and conclude in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Neustadt imperial quarter, where many of Strasbourg’s noteworthy buildings are based. This afternoon, enjoy free time to explore at leisure. 

EmeraldPLUS
Canal boat tour in Strasbourg

This morning, you’re transferred from your Star-Ship docked in Rastatt to the charming spa town of Baden-Baden, known for its peaceful surroundings and the celebrities who have visited it over the last century.  

If you’re feeling active, then you may choose to embark on a hike to Altes Schloss, where your local guide will show you the castle ruins, including the dungeons and winding staircases. The panoramic views of the surrounding Black Forest region are certain to make this a truly unforgettable experience.  
Alternatively, you may wish to enjoy a guided walking tour of Baden-Baden, witnessing the luxurious façades of the independent boutiques and the well-manicured gardens, before joining a unique backstage tour of the Baden Baden Opera Theater.  

Included Excursion
Guided walking tour of Baden-Baden

EmeraldPLUS
Backstage Opera Theater Tour

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided hike to Altes Schloss

Strolling down Heidelberg’s cobblestone streets, you may find yourself as entranced as the German Romanticist thinkers before you. Heidelberg is a living representation of the legend-steeped cityscapes depicted by the romanticists, its peaceful surroundings beckoning exploration. 

Today, you'll explore Heidelberg Castle or opt to hike from Mount Königstuhl to Heidelberg for awe-inspiring panoramas. 

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Heidelberg 

EmeraldACTIVE
Hike from Mount Königstuhl to Heidelberg

Today you will have the chance to learn about Koblenz, an ancient city often considered to be the gateway to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge. The Romans originally built a city here as a stronghold, but the area is now known for its idyllic beauty, and peaceful parks full of colourful flowers.

Included Excursion
Walking tour of Koblenz

EmeraldACTIVE
Bike tour in Koblenz

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Moselle Valley & Cochem Castle visit (extra expense)

This morning, relax on-board your Star-Ship and absorb the breathtaking views of the Rhine Gorge during a scenic sailing. Afterwards, you’ll arrive in Rüdesheim, a captivating city known for its authentic atmosphere and traditional appeal. Here, in the home of cuckoo clocks, oompah bands, and Bavarian beer, the Rhineland's charm is found around every corner.

Your included tour will be a visit to Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet Museum, a half-timbered tower with vaulted ceilings and painted frescoes that houses one of the best collections of music boxes in the world. You will also get the opportunity to ride on the charming minitrain and taste famous Rüdesheimer coffee, made with one of the most famous brandies in Germany.

Included Excursion
Visit to Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet Museum

After breakfast, it is time to say farewell to your fellow guests and disembark for your transfer to the airport, taking memories of Petite France and fairy tale-like settings with you. 

Please book your flight to depart out of Frankfurt after 12:00 PM.

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.