Jewels of the Rhine

Architecture, history and natural beauty are ever-present on this wonderful journey on the Rhine, beginning in Basel explore the Black Forest region, Koblenz and Cologne on its route.

8 Days
Basel to Amsterdam
From (AUD)
$ 3,895
Dates & Pricing

2024 Basel > Amsterdam

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.
Architecture, history and natural beauty are ever-present on this wonderful journey on the Rhine River. Begin in Basel, exploring the Black Forest region and witness the fairytale archicture of Koblenz and Cologne. Your river cruise ends in the enigmatic Amsterdam.
Tour Map
Tour Code:
EWAC
Duration:
8 days
Departure City:
Basel
Return City:
Amsterdam

8 Day Itinerary

  1. Day 1 - Basel

    Welcome to Basel. On arrival, you’ll be met at the airport and transferred to your Emerald Cruises Star-Ship, where your friendly captain and crew will be waiting to greet you. This evening, join your fellow guests for dinner on board.

    Please book your flight to arrive into Basel prior to 03:00 PM.

    Meals Included: Dinner

  2. Day 2 - Breisach

    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. You’ll also 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

    Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  3. Day 3 - Kehl - Strasbourg

    This morning, your Star-Ship will dock in Kehl, where you will be transferred across the river to Strasbourg, the capital of France’s Alsace Region. Cobbled squares surrounded by half-timbered houses make Strasbourg appear as if it has been effortlessly suspended in time, and you will get the opportunity to explore the past during your included walking tour of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town. Witness the ornate beauty of many of Strasbourg’s highlights, including the Maison Kammerzell and the canal network that weaves through Petite France, before enjoying free time to explore at leisure.

    Included Excursion

    Guided tour of Strasbourg

    Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  4. Day 4 - Ludwigshafen - Heidelberg

    Relax on board this morning as you sail towards Ludwigshafen, following the meandering Rhine River and passing the confluence of the Rhine and Neckar. Travel by coach to Heidelberg, where you’ll have the opportunity to learn about how it became a UNESCO City of Literature, having inspired the likes of Mark Twain and William Turner with its historical setting.

    Your guided tour of the town will allow you to find your own inspiration among its delightful landmarks, including Heidelberg Castle, one of the most impressive Renaissance ruins in all of Europe. Alternatively, revel in a hike from Mount Königstuhl to Heidelberg.

    EmeraldACTIVE

    Hike from Mount Königstuhl to Heidelberg

    Included Excursion

    Guided tour of Heidelberg

    Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  5. Day 5 - Koblenz

     Cruise to the 2,000-year-old town of Koblenz today and discover its fairy tale-like surrounds, nestled on the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers. Your local guide will tour you through the Roman town, touching on the twin-towered façade of the Church of Our Lady and the German Corner, where the two inspirational waterways meet. Journey by cable car to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, where you’ll find exceptional views of the surrounding area from its hilltop position.

    Included Excursion

    Orientation walk of Koblenz & a visit to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress

    DiscoverMORE

    Moselle Valley & Cochem Castle visit (extra expense)

    Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  6. Day 6 - Cologne

    Effortlessly steeped in history and tales of the past, Cologne is one of the oldest cities in Germany, encapsulating a timeline that spans more than two millennia. Your included city tour will take you to the heart of its Old Town.

    As part of your exciting EmeraldPLUS experience, you’ll get to uncover local delicacies and cultural gems meandering at your own pace along quaint historic streets while Seeking the treasures of Cologne.

    Included Excursion

    Guided tour of Cologne's Old Town

    EmeraldPLUS

    Seeking the treasures of Cologne

    Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  7. Day 7 - Amsterdam

    This morning, you can choose to embark on a guided bike tour to Waterland, learning about how the water is reclaiming Holland as you pass through quintessential Dutch surrounds and witness traditional villages and windmills. Alternatively, take to Amsterdam’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed canal network during a glass-top canal cruise, passing Roman patrician houses and ornate merchant houses that tell tales of the prosperous Dutch Golden Age.

    EmeraldACTIVE

    Guided bike tour to Waterland

    Included Excursion

    Canal cruise

    Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  8. Day 8 - Amsterdam

    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 and charming Strasbourg 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.

    Meals Included: Breakfast

Tour inclusions

YOUR CRUISE INCLUDES
  • 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

INCLUDED EXCURSIONS
  • Guided tour of Strasbourg
  • Guided tour of Heidelberg
  • Walking tour of Koblenz & a visit to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress
  • Guided tour of Cologne's Old Town
  • Canal cruise in Amsterdam

EmeraldPLUS
  • Guided tour of Freiburg with tasting
  • Seeking the treasures of Cologne

EmeraldACTIVE
  • Guided bike tour in Breisach
  • Guided hike from Mount Königstuhl to Heidelberg
  • Guided bike tour to Waterland

DINING HIGHLIGHTS
  • 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

Pricing & Availability