Excursions on the Rhine

You will set off on foot for a guided visit of Mainz. Located on the banks of the Rhine opposite the confluence of the Rhine with the Main, Mainz will captivate you with its quite incomparable lifestyle, its unique charm and its openness to the world. You will be able to immerse yourself in this unique atmosphere as you wander round the Market Square, in the middle of which stands the Heunensäule, a sandstone column commemorating the history of Mainz, erected in 1975 on the occasion of the Cathedral millennium celebrations. In the company of your guide, you will be able to enter the magnificent Cathedral, whose construction started in 975 and which has left a deep mark on the history of the town. The interior of the cathedral houses some wonderful historic treasures, including tombs and funerary monuments from the 13th to the 18th centuries. You will also be able to admire the striking contrast between the massive red sandstone cathedral and the Romanesque Gotthard Chapel in light-colored stone. You will also have the opportunity to wander up and down the lovingly restored streets in the old town towards Gutenbergplatz. Gutenberg was born in Mainz between 1394 and 1400 and is acknowledged in Europe as the inventor of the printing press with mobile letters. You will also discover a German tradition as you admire the Carnival Fountain.

PLEASE NOTE

• Good walking shoes are recommended: visit on foot.
• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.

Guided tour of Colmar, the capital of Centre Alsace. Discover with our hostess a city rich with more than one thousand years of European history. Astonishingly unaffected by the passage of time, its homogenous historic center has been listed as a preserved sector and very carefully restored and enhanced for more than twenty years. Discover with our hostess the marvelous setting of Old Colmar, the historic center, the "little Venice" district, the former customs and the cathedral square. Enjoy some free time before coming back on board by coach in Breisach.

PLEASE NOTE

• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.

Departure from Basel in the company of your hostess for Andermatt and excursion aboard the "Glacier Express”. We'll board the Glacier Express for a panoramic voyage of the Alps. You'll discover the breathtaking beauty of Swiss landscapes through this unique and unforgettable moment. We'll enjoy lunch on board the train or in a restaurant (depending on availability). Back to Basel where our ship is moored.

PLEASE NOTE

• Good walking shoes are recommended.
• For your information, please note that the coach ride should last approximately 3,5 hrs from Basel to Andermatt, and 3,5 hrs from Coire to Basel.
• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.
• INCLUDED in the GSB cruise.

The medieval town of Braubach, surrounded by vines, is dominated by Marksburg Castle.
Set off by coach for a guided visit of Marksburg Castle. Built in the 13th century, it sits high on a cliff overlooking the Rhine from a height of more than 160 meters and towers over the narrow and winding alleyways of Braubach's historic old town.
Marksburg is the only castle in the Rhine Valley never to have been destroyed. Beginning with the construction of the keep in the 13th century, the castle grew into its present shape throughout the succeeding centuries. The castle evolved and developed due in no small part to its defense system which was exemplary; a tunnel was constructed and strengthened with impressive vaults, cannons were added as were wooden gates and drawbridges that could be raised or lowered, to act as a defensive shield. This proved to be a recipe for success, providing an excellent far-reaching defense system for the castle.
You will be able to visit some quite remarkable rooms in the castle such as the impressive kitchen with its imposing open fireplace, the ladies' quarters, the knights' hall, the armory, the small tower bedrooms, the chapel, the wine cellar, the paths along the top of the walls and many other sights which will transport you back through time to the Middle Ages.
There is a little free time before returning by coach to the boat.

PLEASE NOTE

• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.

In the afternoon, set off on the Grands Crus Wine Route, including Gevrey-Chambertin and the Clos de Vougeot, with a visit of the Chateau du Clos de Vougeot. As early as the 12th century, monks from the Citeaux abbey built winegrowing outbuildings in the middle of the vines. The main building strongly influenced by the Renaissance style was added in the 16th century. The Clos Vougeot remains the symbol of more than 1000 years of Burgundy history. The journey continues to a wine estate for a tasting* of Burgundy wines. Here you will discover a traditional vineyard, visit the cellars that hold barrels and bottles, then take part in a commented tasting of the famous wines from the region. Return on board.

PLEASE NOTE

• Good walking shoes are recommended for this excursion.
• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.
• *Alcohol can be harmful to your health. Please drink in moderation.

Departure with our hostess to Strasbourg City Centre. At this time of year, the entire city is covered in garlands and Christmas decorations, especially the streets and shops. Discover the Christmas Markets on the Place Broglie and in front of the cathedral. Once the sun sets, we'll set out to admire the Christmas lights around the city near the cathedral, the Place Kléber, Carré d'Or and Place Gutenburg. Afterwards, we'll return to the ship.

PLEASE NOTE

• Wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes.
• Times are approximate.
• The order of the visits can change.

Departure from Basel for our excursion to Mainau Island and Lake Constance. There's so much to admire and discover in Mainau, one of the most famous tourist spots in Germany: park and gardens, nature and botany using all your senses. We'll have lunch on the island.

Afterwards, we'll visit the Rhine Falls. The Rhine Falls are among the most spectacular sites to visit in Switzerland. You'll also discover the Laufen Castle and its impressive view overlooking the rumbling falls.  

PLEASE NOTE

• Good walking shoes are recommended.
• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.
• Visit in the company of a CroisiEurope hostess.
• Length: approx. 12hrs including 6hrs transportation by coach.

Departure from Vieux Breisach towards Mulhouse for our guided tour of the largest car museum in the world. The Cité de l'Automobile's collection includes over 500 vehicles, from masterpieces to sports cars dating from 1878 Europe up to the present day. The Schlumpf Collection, located in a former textile factory from 1880 and spread out on 20,000 m², comprises more than 400 specimens listed as historical monuments. The museum contains the largest and most comprehensive collection of Bugatti motor vehicles in the world, including the Bugatti Royale Coupé Napoléon and an impressive number of Rolls-Royces. Return on board.

PLEASE NOTE

• Good walking shoes are recommended.
• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.
• INCLUDED in the GSB cruise.

We’ll leave by coach to learn more about the seven varieties of grapes found in the region of Alsace. As we travel the wine route, we’ll pass through charming villages decorated with half-timbered homes, stone fountains, and antique wine presses. Our itinerary  includes Riquewihr, listed as one of France’s most beautiful villages; Ribeauvillé, the City of Fiddlers; and Kaysersberg, where Albert Schweitzer was born. Be on the lookout for white storks! They can be found perched on roofs in their large nests, floating across the sky, or walking in fields. We’ll stop at a local wine cellar for a tasting of Alsatian wines, especially the famous whites.* Lunch is included during the tour (except beverages). After lunch, we’ll set off to Colmar. You'll have a brief guided tour of the city's center, including historical sites such as the Unterlinden Museum, “Little Venice,” Saint Martin’s Church, the Pfister House, and the Koïfhus. Afterwards, enjoy some free time at the various Christmas markets.

We’ll return to the ship by coach.

PLEASE NOTE

• Times are approximate and can change according to the order of visits.
• This coach tour includes stops with free time on your own.
• Please wear comfortable, sturdy shoes.
• Lunch included, except for beverages.
• *Alcohol can be dangerous to your health. Please drink in moderation.

Departure on foot from the boat towards the Museum of Mechanical Musical Instruments located in an old building from the 15th century. The "Siegfrieds Mechanisches Musikkabinett" is the first German museum dedicated to self-playing musical instruments, which holds an impressive collection of no less than 350 mechanical musical instruments dating back to the 18th century to the 20th, all spread out on more than 4000 ft². This is a vast collection, dating back three centuries, of fascinating musical instruments that function like computers, ranging from tiny, delicate music boxes to an enormous orchestrion. Tools and machines for the production of organ pipes, cardboard sheet music, rolls of sheet music and perforated disks are also on display in the collection. Whatever their age, museum visitors always take great pleasure in discovering this special music, the techniques from the past and how these instruments work. After visiting the Museum, we'll have a sip of Rudesheimer Kaffee*, the local specialty, in a traditional café. Return on board on foot.

PLEASE NOTE

• Good walking shoes are recommended: the streets are cobbled.
• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.
• *Alcohol can be harmful to your health. Please drink in moderation.

Discover the famous vineyards of the Rhine Valley. Stop in Eltville or its surroundings. Then, we'll continue on to Wiesbaden, well-known for its longstanding hot springs and casino. We'll begin our tour by a panoramic visit of the city and its main monuments. We'll pass by some magnificent 19th-century homes before reaching the old city. The residences, inspired by various historical styles, impart a unique atmosphere to the city. You'll see the Wiesbaden City Palace, completed in 1841 and used as the main city residence of the Dukes of Nassau; the Old Town Hall dating from the 17th century; and the brick, neo-Gothic Marktkirche built between 1853 and 1862. You'll also pass by the Kurhaus, a historical monument that is now the center of varied social activities and events. Its "Bowling Green” garden with two three-bowled cascade fountains is bordered by 160 year-old trees. Afterwards, we'll return to the ship by coach.

PLEASE NOTE

• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.

We'll set out on a guided tour of the capital of Europe. We'll begin our tour through several different neighborhoods in the city: the German quarter located around the famous Place de la République and the European quarter's Palace of Europe, European Court of Humans Rights, and the European Parliament. We'll continue our visit to the Petite France quarter, listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site since 1988, and discover its lovely canals, half-timbered houses and small streets before moving on to the Cathedral square. You'll visit the Christmas Markets on Place Broglie and in front of the cathedral with our hostess. At this time of year, the entire city is covered in garlands and decorations, especially the streets and shops. Lunch on board. This afternoon, enjoy free time to shop in the boutiques before we set out with our hostess to admire the lights around the city near the cathedral, the Place Kléber, Carré d'Or and Place Gutenburg. Afterwards, we'll return to the ship.

PLEASE NOTE

• Times are approximate.
• The times and the order of visits can change.

You’ll leave by coach with your tour guide for Sélestat. The first stop will be the Maison du Pain d'Alsace, where you’ll discover the secrets of Alsatian baking. Of course, you’ll be able to have a taste or two! The next stop will be Éguisheim, officially listed as one of France's most beautiful villages. The village will be totally decked out for the holidays, and the Christmas Market will provide all you need to get you in the holiday spirit. Take some time to peruse the stands with crafts and items for sale. We’ll enjoy lunch on the Wine Route before heading to Obernai. Christmas is a particularly decorative and festive time in this Renaissance village. After our tour, we will return on board the ship.

PLEASE NOTE

• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.

Travel through the potter villages in Northern Alsace with our tour guide. We'll discover Soufflenheim, famous for its culinary and decorative pottery, and Betschdorf, a village where they make traditional blue and grey stoneware pottery. We'll visit a pottery. Leave for Kirrwiller. We'll enjoy lunch and dancing at the Royal Palace in Kirrwiller(1), followed by a show in the Music Hall  where we'll be drawn into a timeless journey by singers, performers and dancers.

PLEASE NOTE

• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.
• (1) Lunch show at the Royal Palace in Kirrwiller available only on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.

We'll leave on foot to discover the ancient secrets found within the Strasbourg Hospice wine cellars. In old times, it was used to store wine offered as payment for hospital care. Today, twenty or so winemakers use the renowned cellar to age their prestigious wines. The oldest wine barrel dates back to 1472! Your tour will be followed by a tasting*. After our tour, we will return on board the ship.

PLEASE NOTE

• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.
• *Alcohol can be dangerous to your health. Please drink in moderation.

Join us for a guided tour on foot to see the city’s iconic Petite France area and majestic cathedral. Afterwards, enjoy some free time at the various Christmas markets set up across the city.

PLEASE NOTE

• The order of the visits can change.
• .Times are approximate.

We will leave by coach for Ungersheim and its open-air museum—dressed to the nines for the holiday season. Take advantage of some free time to wander the village streets and learn about Alsatian traditions. We’ll have lunch in a local restaurant before heading to Colmar. Colmar is a cornucopia of tastes and sites during the holidays. Spend some time strolling through the five Christmas markets that dot the city, enjoying what the ambiance has to offer.

PLEASE NOTE

• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.

Our first stop on this tour will be in Freiburg to spend some time at its Christmas market, one of the most beautiful in Germany. Set up in the old part of town, it has something for everyone, including handcrafts such as blown glass, candles, and wooden toys. Enjoy some time on your own to discover what it has to offer. We’ll return to the ship at the end of the afternoon.

PLEASE NOTE

• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.

We’ll leave by coach from Gambsheim for Wingen-sur-Moder. The Musée Lalique is located in the village where René Lalique set up his glass factory in 1921. The museum crisscrosses the universe of this luxury brand by highlighting its glassware. René Lalique, his successors, and the history of their iconic creations are presented within the spacious, modern halls.

René became one of the greatest names of his time, both as a jeweler and a master glassmaker. His instantly recognizable style was a significant influence in the Art Nouveau and Art Deco movements. The museum is tucked away in a beautiful, natural setting and provides a retrospect on the art of glassmaking. The collection contains 650 fascinating works from its private collection, as well as from the company’s warehouses, loans from Parisian museums, and private collections. This is the only museum dedicated to Lalique in Europe. The exhibit is organized by theme and era and provides a good overview of creations, Art Nouveau jewelry, modern crystal, and Art Deco glassware. The locale allows visitors to get a spirit of the craft through large-format photos and audio-visual displays focused on the jewelry, drawings, perfume bottles, tableware, lights, mascots, or vases. And because no object exists without talent, the museum pays respect to the men and women who have kept the art of glassmaking alive over the centuries.

The special exhibit dedicated to Christmas in December is a pure delight to see. The older and newer objects for that special time of year are on display in a sparkling setting. And in celebration of Advent, a new door in the calendar is opened every day, revealing a crystal surprise. We'll return to the ship by coach.

PLEASE NOTE

• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.

We’ll leave on foot for a tour of Speyer. Located on the left bank of the Rhine River, Speyer’s Romanesque cathedral can be spotted from miles away.  Enjoy a visit of the cathedral’s interior with your tour guide. In 1981, UNESCO accepted the cathedral on its list of World Heritage Sites. Begun in the 1020s, its expansion continued well into the 11th century. The Cathedral was the burial place of the German emperors for almost 300 years. Speyer itself was the seat of the Holy Roman Empire’s high court from 1527 to 1689. The cathedral was built using lovely red sandstone taken from quarries near the Palatinate Forest. Your next stop will be the Dreifaltigkeitskirche (Trinity Church), a late Baroque-style, Protestant church. We’ll then head to the old Jewish courtyard to visit the Mikveh, a bath used for ritual washing. It is decorated with rich Romanesque ornamentation that was painted in the Middle Ages. It is the oldest bath of this type in Germany. After our tour, enjoy some free time before returning at your own pace to the ship.

PLEASE NOTE

• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.

We’ll leave by coach from Breisach with our tour guide to visit the charming village of Eguisheim. Enjoy a stroll around the ancient city walls and discover the village's quaint streets full of lovely, colorful half-timbered homes. Keep an eye out for the stork nests propped high on homes and belfries.

Afterwards, we’ll travel by coach to a farmhouse inn for a traditional local lunch. Everything during the meal is made with fresh farm produce: pot pies, smoked meats, old-fashioned potatoes, Munster cheese, and huckleberry pie.

We’ll spend the afternoon traveling along the Alsatian Wine Route. You will see a myriad of well-known places, including Albert Schweitzer’s birthplace, Kaysersberg; Bergheim, known for its witch trials; Ribeauvillé, the City of Fiddlers; and Riquewihr, in the heart of the vineyards. We’ll stop at a wine cellar on the Wine Route to taste* the famous white wines of Alsace. After our tour, we’ll return on board the ship in Breisach.

PLEASE NOTE

• Times are approximate.
• The order of the visits can change.
• Please wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes.
• *Alcohol can be dangerous to your health. Please drink in moderation.
• INCLUDED in the SBS cruise.

We’ll leave by coach for Colmar. You'll have a brief guided tour of the city's center, including historical sites such as the Unterlinden Museum, “Little Venice,” Saint Martin’s Church, the Pfister House, and the Koïfhus. After, we’ll continue along the Alsatian Wine Route. Lunch is included during the tour (except beverages). We’ll stop in Obernai, known as the “condensed version of Alsace.”  The belfry, town hall, the Six Bucket Well, Saint Odile’s fountain, and the Wheat Hall are all spectacular sites to visit.

PLEASE NOTE

• Times are approximate and can change according to the order of visits.
• This coach tour includes stops with free time on your own.
• Please wear comfortable, sturdy shoes.
• Lunch included, except for beverages.
• *Alcohol can be dangerous to your health. Please drink in moderation.
• INCLUDED in SBS cruise.

We’ll leave for a guided tour of Heidelberg and its legendary castle. We'll take the recently renovated funicular railway from the Old Town area, getting our first glimpses of the impressive palace up close. Once above, we’ll be able to take in the breathtaking views across the hills and valleys that surround the Neckar River. Although the castle is in ruins, we can still perceive its prestigious past. The walls, towers, and bunkers served as its defense, and the interior courts show off extravagant palace decor and exceptional sculptures.  While the Hortus Palatinus garden seems like something straight out of a fairytale, the Heidelberg Tun has been referenced in great works by Jules Verne, Washington Irving, and Mark Twain. We’ll return to the Old Town the same way we went up. Enjoy some time in the city itself and soak up the atmosphere by meandering through lanes. The university is the oldest, and still the most prestigious, in Germany. By the end of our excursion, you’ll understand why this lovely city has inspired many the painter and poet by its beauty.

PLEASE NOTE

• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.

We'll head to Kaysersberg for a Christmas exhibit.(1) Each year, the village goes all out showing the expanse of Alsatian Christmas decorations. Take some time getting into the Christmas spirit by admiring the meticulous, original designs straight from the creators' imaginations. Next stop is Riquewihr, a charming medieval village nestled among the vineyards, where you'll discover an authentic Christmas market in a unique setting. The bright colors of the half-timbered homes add to the postcard-like setting of traditional Alsace. Take your time wandering the cobblestone streets and admiring the marvelous decorations covering the facades and village monuments.

PLEASE NOTE

• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.
• (1) The Kaysersberg Christmas Market is open on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday. On other days, we'll visit the Eguisheim Christmas Market, one of the most beautiful in Alsace.

We'll set out for the center of Colmar. Your guide will first introduce you to picturesque Little Venice. The Lauch River canals wind their way through the city dotted with colorful, half-timbered homes. During the holidays, everything is decorated to the hilt. We'll then visit the Choco-Story chocolate museum, dedicated to the wonders of our favorite sweet, located in Colmar's center of the holiday activity. Warm up with a cup of delightful hot chocolate. Afterwards, spend some time strolling through the Christmas market enjoying what the ambiance has to offer– small chalets with traditional Christmas decorations and housewares, original gift ideas, and culinary specialties swathed in spicy holiday smells.

PLEASE NOTE

• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.

You'll travel from Eberbach to Heilbronn, the wine capital of historic Wurtemberg—an ancient Imperial Free City sitting within beautiful forests and vineyards.

During your stroll through downtown, you'll see the astronomical clock on the old City Hall in the market square; St. Kilian's Church and its Renaissance-style belfry; and the Deutschhof, an old monastery that now houses the city museums. 

At Christmastime, the city overflows with music and traditional spices such as aniseed and cinnamon. Enjoy browsing the decorated stands brimming with crafts and souvenirs around St. Kilian's Church, the City Hall, and the market square. We'll have lunch in a local restaurant.

PLEASE NOTE

• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.

We'll set out on foot to visit Heidelberg University. Few cities are as inseparable from their university as Heidelberg, home to the oldest institution in Germany. Learn the captivating history of the Ruprecht Karl University of Heidelberg and its student body during a guided tour that brings you to the most important locations, including the library, the Old Town Campus, and the former student prison adorned with graffiti, writings, and paintings. We'll then head over to a famous local brewery for a beer tasting. We will return to the ship on foot.

PLEASE NOTE

• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.

You will set off on foot from accompanied by your guides and visit the town of Mainz. Capital of the Rhine Palatinate, Mainz was founded more than 2000 years ago by the Romans. In the 17th and 18th centuries, the top architects and sculptors created the basic shape of the town, with fine palaces and churches. Here you can admire the magnificent historic houses which have been outstandingly well-restored. Located on the banks of the Rhine opposite the confluence of the Rhine with the Main, Mainz will captivate you with its quite incomparable lifestyle, its unique charm and its openness to the world. In the company of your guide, you will be able to enter the magnificent Cathedral, whose construction began in 975 and which has left a deep mark on the history of the town. The interior of the cathedral houses some wonderful historic treasures, including tombs and funerary monuments from the 13th to the 18th centuries. You will also have the opportunity to wander up and down the colorful streets in the old town. Finally you will visit the Gutenberg Museum, the world's finest museum for printing equipment, materials and books. Born in Mainz around 1400, Johannes Gensfleisch Gutenberg himself prepared the copy of the Bible referred to as "the 42-line Bible” which was published in 1455 - the oldest printed book in the world. Out of the 46 copies still in existence, the museum has just one, along with a "Mainz Psalter”, the first ever document printed using three different colors of ink. The museum extends over five floors and provides a quite remarkable exhibition on the history of the book and written word in both Europe and the world as a whole. Set off by coach to re-join the boat at Worms.

PLEASE NOTE

• Good walking shoes are recommended: the tour is on foot and the streets in the old town are cobblestoned.
• The Gutenberg Museum is closed on Sunday mornings and on Mondays. 
• The ship sails during the excursion.
• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.

The Ludwigsburg Residential Palace has been nicknamed the “Versailles of Swabia,” and as soon as you see it, you’ll understand why. The complex contains 452 rooms spread across 18 buildings and is the largest palatial estate in Germany. Our tour will take you through the castle’s extraordinary interiors with architecture and decor spanning four centuries.

PLEASE NOTE

• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.

Boarding a glass-covered boat, our tour will take us to the Petite France District. This is a famous quarter beloved by its citizens thanks to its canals, charming colorful half-timbered houses and its narrow alleyways. We will glide past the Tanners Quarter, the Covered Bridges (Ponts Couverts) and the Panoramic Terrace on the Vauban Dam. The cruise continues through the German Quarter. Following the French defeat in 1870, Germany planned to make Strasbourg the capital of the Reichsland or Imperial Territory of Alsace-Lorraine. This district, referred to as the "new town", represented a new form of urban planning, featuring wide roads, monumental administrative and cultural buildings, and luxurious private homes. Landscaping also played a key role in this impressive urban planning scheme. Then, we'll get a chance to admire the link between Strasbourg and Europe through the European Parliament Building, completed in 1999, which was designed to host monthly sessions of the European Parliament. The architecture of the building is based on a combination of circles and ellipses, with the building laid out and organized into several clearly identified areas. Finally, we'll see the Human Rights Building where the European Court of Human Rights is located.

PLEASE NOTE

• Mind the gap when boarding the river boat.
• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.
• Excursion subject to availability and only on pre-booking before departure.
• INCLUDED in the GSB cruise.

Departure by coach from Alken to Thurant castle, in the Moselle valley (Mosel und Eifel) around 20 km from Koblenz. This fortified castle proudly stands as a symbol of the region. The oldest castle in the Moselle got its name from the occupation of the fortress of Thuron in Syria at the time of the Crusades. Thurant Castle was built on the site of a Roman fort in 1197 by the brother of King Otto VI, Count Palatine Henry who had it built when he returned from the aforementioned Crusades. From 1246 to 1248, the castle was besieged by the archdiocese of Köln and Trier, following which it was divided into two parts separated by a wall. During the War of the Palatine Succession (1688-1697) most parts of the castle were destroyed by French troops. The castle was rebuilt in the 20th century. From the terrace, enjoy an unforgettable view of the Moselle. After some free time, we'll return on board in Alken.

PLEASE NOTE

• Good walking shoes are recommended.
• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.

You will start the visit with a tour and commentary of the Rüdesheim vineyards by mini-train, during which you will discover the famous vineyards already cultivated in the Roman period. During this tour, the history of winemaking in the region will be explained and you can enjoy a breathtaking view of Rüdesheim and the Rhine. The train will then stop right before the historical Bassenheimer Hof cellar, a seigneurial residence from the 16th century, where we'll indulge in a wine-tasting*. A winemaker from the Störzel family cellar will guide you through a tasting of three different wines, from the driest to the sweetest, all the while telling you about the history of the cellar and winemaking in the Rüdesheim region, complete with local stories. Afterwards, our visit will continue on to the Museum of Mechanical Musical Instruments located 100m away from the cellar in an old building from the 15th century. The "Siegfrieds Mechanisches Musikkabinett" is the first German museum dedicated to self-playing musical instruments, which holds an impressive collection of no less than 350 mechanical musical instruments dating back to the 18th century to the 20th, all spread out on more than 4000 ft². This is a vast collection, dating back three centuries, of fascinating musical instruments that function like computers, ranging from tiny, delicate music boxes to an enormous orchestrion. Tools and machines for the production of organ pipes, cardboard sheet music, rolls of sheet music and perforated disks are also on display in the collection. Whatever their age, museum visitors always take great pleasure in discovering this special music, the techniques from the past and how these instruments work. After visiting the Museum, you will have some free time to stroll through the streets of Rüdesheim ambling down the famous Drosselgasse, before making your own way back to the boat.

PLEASE NOTE

• Warm clothes are recommended for the visit of the cellar.
• After the visits, passengers will have free time in Rudesheim until they go back to the boat on foot on their own.
• Good walking shoes are recommended.
• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.
• *Alcohol can be harmful to your health. Please drink in moderation.

Colmar will charm you with its authenticity and typically Alsatian architecture composed of brightly painted half-timbered facades dating from the Middle Ages. You'll discover the quintessential neighborhood of "Little Venice” and visit the Unterlinden Museum, featuring a large collection of local and international artworks and manufactured artifacts from prehistorical to contemporary times. The museum is housed in a 13th-century Dominican convent and a 1906 former public baths building, and was renovated by Swiss architects Herzog & de Meuron in 2015 to incorporate more of the vast collection. Inarguably, the most important work in the collection is the Isenheim Altarpiece.

Duration: approx. 4:00

• The museum is closed on Tuesdays. It will be replaced by a visit to the Hansi Museum instead.
• Good walking shoes are recommended.
• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.
• These excursions are not proposed for all the cruises and depend on the itinerary.
• If the minimum of 25 participants is not reached, the excursion may be either cancelled or proposed at another rate, depending on the number of participants (to be paid for on board).
• The excursions on the first evening and the morning following boarding are only guaranteed for the passengers who have booked the excursion before the cruise.

We'll leave by coach from Mannheim to Heidelberg. Its unique charm comes from the harmonious combination of romanticism, dynamism, legend and modernity. We'll take a guided tour of the outsides of the Heidelberg Castle on foot. It is partially in ruins, and as such has inspired generations of painters and poets ever since the 18th century. They perceived the damaged castle as a testimony to the grandeur and decadence of human creations. Goethe, Hölderlin, Uhland and Eichendorff celebrated the landscape surrounding the castle while many others took it as a model itself. Don't miss the geometric terraces of the Palatinate gardens, once considered the "8th world wonder”. The gardens' architect, Salomon de Caus, wanted to recreate the harmony with which city, river and hills all around intertwined. After this guided tour, you will take the coach down into the Neckarmünzplatz in the old historic city center for a guided tour on foot. You will admire the Saint-Esprit Church (exterior view) and will have some free time for shopping before taking the coach back to the boat. On the way back you will go through the city center of Mannheim, where you will find the boat.

PLEASE NOTE

• Good walking shoes are recommended.
• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.

We'll depart on foot for a walk along the Moselle before crossing the bridge leading to the old town of Cochem. You'll get to admire the picturesque streets lined with half-timbered houses, St Martin's Church, the Capuchin Monastery and Church and the marketplace. Our path will then lead us outside the town through a wild natural reserve all the way to Cochem Castle (Reichsburg) which overlooks the whole town. From there, we'll encounter gorgeous views over Cochem and the Moselle. We'll pass by the "Tummelchen" area, offering a view on the castle, before returning to our ship via the upper part of town. 

PLEASE NOTE

• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.

We'll leave by coach for Volendam, a charming village that has preserved its character for over six centuries thanks to the tough vitality of its fishermen. Enjoy some free time on your own after we discover the city through a short film. Volendam is well known for its Dutch seafood specialties, especially for smoked eel. We'll then visit a cheese factory in the area to discover how the famous Gouda cheese is made. We'll enjoy tasting the different flavors and ages available. We'll then head for Zaanse Schans, an open air museum with wooden windmills, barns, and houses. Don't miss the small but impressive clog museum that features one of the largest and most attractive collections of wooden shoes in the Netherlands: painted, carved, ice clogs with iron trimmings, horse clogs, and decorative clogs. Take advantage of some free time to indulge in authentic Dutch traditions. We'll return to our ship in Amsterdam by coach.

PLEASE NOTE

• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.
• Good walking shoes are recommended.

The elegant spa town of Baden-Baden sits on the edge of the Black Forest. The area has been one of rest and relaxation since its founding over 2,000 years ago.  It was known as the “Summer Capital of Europe” in the 19th century, when its clientele included European and Russian royalty and notable artists. During this excursion, we’ll tour the street where the Friedrichsbad Spa is located and also visit the Old Town.

PLEASE NOTE

• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.

Transfer to Cochem castle by minibus in groups of about 25 passengers. The Reichsburg is built on a remarkable site, a steep vine-covered hill overlooking the Moselle. Guided tour of this magnificent castle dating from the year 1000, which was destroyed by French troops in the 17th century and entirely rebuilt according to old plans in a Neo-Gothic style. It is distinguished by its graceful towers topped with bell turrets. It is one of the few castles in Germany which, having been rebuilt after being destroyed, still has its original countenance today. After visiting the castle, you will have some free time in the town. The town of Cochem is interesting in itself, with its narrow winding streets, its carefully restored half-timbered houses with their slate roofs, the Town Hall square with its history-filled past, as well as ancient walls, gates and churches. Return to the boat on foot.

PLEASE NOTE

• Return to the boat on foot.
• Good walking shoes are recommended.
• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.

The Treetop Walk is a canopy walkway located in the heart of the Black Forest.  The hike begins at ground level but progressively takes you into the air, culminating at a 131-foot observation tower. On our tour, our guide will take time to explain the plants and wildlife found in the region. Once atop, you’ll be able to see the Swabian Alps, the Kraichgau region, and even the TV tower in Stuttgart. And if you are really daring, you can take the 180-foot tunnel slide to the bottom! (Additional cost to be paid on site).

PLEASE NOTE

• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.

Seven pioneering men of the region recognized the magic of the huge calcareous rock downstream from Remich. They cultivated the first vineyards now infamous for its sparkling wines. In 1919, in the aftermath of World War I, they set up the Caves St. Martin(1).

We'll set out by coach for the caves where you’ll discover the secrets to wine making while strolling through the underground passages that seem to go on for miles. We’ll take part in a wine tasting* as well. After our tour, we’ll go to the historical center of Remich, where you can enjoy some free time on your own. Also called the “Pearl of the Moselle,” this charming city is surrounded by an outstanding panorama of vineyards and forests. Take a stroll along the several miles of promenade in the shade of the trees along the Moselle or sit back on a cozy terrace for some more wine. After our tour, we’ll return to the ship on foot.

PLEASE NOTE

• (1) In case the original winery isn't available, we'll visit an other one.
• Times are approximate and can change according to our navigational route.
• The order of the visits can change.
• *Alcohol can be harmful to your health. Please drink in moderation.

A little train will take us through the small alleyways of Rudesheim. The visit will continue on to the Music Museum, located in an old building from the 15th century, close to the Drosselgasse. We'll visit the "Siegfrieds Mechanisches Musikkabinett" which holds an impressive collection of no less than 350 mechanical musical instruments dating back to the 18th century to the 20th, all spread out on more than 4000 ft².
"You won't believe your ears” once you embark on a musical adventure into the world of historical automated instruments. This is a vast collection, dating back three centuries, of fascinating musical instruments that function like computers, ranging from tiny, delicate music boxes to an enormous orchestrion. Tools and machines for the production of organ pipes, cardboard sheet music, rolls of sheet music and perforated disks are also on display in the collection.
You will then walk down the Drosselgasse, famous for its small restaurants with orchestras. Free time and return on board on foot.

PLEASE NOTE

• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.
• Good walking shoes are recommended.

Departure on foot for downtown Köln. You will discover the city in the company of your guide. Crossroads of Europe since the Middle Ages, Köln has kept its importance as a vibrant commercial and industrial city as well as a cultural and religious center. You will be able to admire the exterior façades of the huge Gothic Köln Cathedral which took five centuries to complete. Indeed, although construction started in 1247, it was interrupted due to a lack of financing in 1560 and only started again in 1842 upon request of Emperor Frederick Wilhelm IV, who had fallen in love with the building. Construction was finally completed in 1863 and the Gothic Cathedral was the highest building in the world from 1880 to 1884. Around the Cathedral, 12 other Romanesque style churches are set in a circle, representing the 12 holy apostles. We'll then move on to the Old Town and stop to admire the outside of the neo-Gothic building, home of the famous "Eau de Cologne".
Before returning on board, we will have some free time to stroll through the streets of Köln or try the famous local beer, the Kölsch. You will be able to make your way back to the boat on foot at your own pace.

PLEASE NOTE

• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.
• Good walking shoes are recommended.

Departure from Wesel by coach in the company of your hostess for the Dutch Open Air Museum in Arnhem, which is located in a beautiful wooded park (44 ha). Some 80 authentic farms, windmills, workshops, houses, barns, a church and a school provide an insight on the everyday life and architecture of yesteryear.
Inside every building, you'll be intrigued by the typical furniture and the displays of various trades and crafts. Some of the buildings are grouped together, such as the beautiful Limburg timber-framed buildings or the Gelderland farms, but the most charming spot is without a doubt the area dedicated to the Zaan region, with its green painted wooden houses and tastefully decorated gables. Our visit will start with the renovated entrance pavilion and its good vantage point over the park and its many windmills. There are farming implements on display in many areas, like the collections center. The lower level gives access to the spectacular panoramic theater HollandRama. In this mobile capsule, films, sounds, lights, smells and temperatures evoke different scenes, from cityscapes to the confines of houses. Return on board by coach.

PLEASE NOTE

• This is a guided tour.
• Bags can be let to the left luggage office.
• Information in the museum (notice board) is given in Dutch, in English and in German.
• This optional excursion replaces the visit to the Kröller Müller on Mondays.
• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.

Transfer to the city centre, accompanied by your entertainment team, then walk to the meeting point at the Palais des Rohan pier in Strasbourg. Departure for a discovery tour of the city. Boarding a glass-covered boat, our tour will take us to the Petite France District. This is a famous quarter beloved by its citizens thanks to its canals, charming colorful half-timbered houses and its narrow alleyways. We will glide past the Tanners Quarter, the Covered Bridges (Ponts Couverts) and the Panoramic Terrace on the Vauban Dam. The cruise continues through the German Quarter. Following the French defeat in 1870, Germany planned to make Strasbourg the capital of the Reichsland or Imperial Territory of Alsace-Lorraine. This district, referred to as the "new town", represented a new form of urban planning, featuring wide roads, monumental administrative and cultural buildings, and luxurious private homes. Landscaping also played a key role in this impressive urban planning scheme. Then, we'll get a chance to admire the link between Strasbourg and Europe through the European Parliament Building, completed in 1999, which was designed to host monthly sessions of the European Parliament. The architecture of the building is based on a combination of circles and ellipses, with the building laid out and organized into several clearly identified areas. Finally, we'll see the Human Rights Building where the European Court of Human Rights is located. Return on foot, accompanied by your entertainment team, to the coach meeting point and return transfer.

PLEASE NOTE

• Mind the gap when boarding the river boat.
• Sturdy walking shoes are recommended.
• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.

Departure by coach from Breisach in the company of your guide to discover the Alsatian Vineyards. Our ride along the Wine Trail will take you through charming picturesque towns with half-timbered houses, fountains and presses. We'll go through Riquewihr, officially one of the most beautiful villages in France and a true open-air museum surrounded by medieval fortifications and overlooked by a castle. Our tour will also take us through Ribeauvillé, the city of Minstrels. Along the way, we'll stop at a wine cellar for a tasting *of some famous Alsatian wines, including its renowned Whites. Return on board in Breisach.

Duration : approx. 4:00

• Visit by coach with stops for free time.
• Good walking shoes are recommended.
• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.
• These excursions are not proposed for all the cruises and depend on the itinerary.
• If the minimum of 25 participants is not reached, the excursion may be either cancelled or proposed at another rate, depending on the number of participants (to be paid for on board).
• The excursions on the first evening and the morning following boarding are only guaranteed for the passengers who have booked the excursion before the cruise.
• *Alcohol can be harmful to your health. Please drink in moderation.

Departure from the boat for a panoramic coach tour of the city of Trier. Discover the Roman cultural heritage of Trier with a splendid view over the Moselle and its magnificent countryside. Trier is the oldest of German cities, founded so long ago that it is 13 years older than Rome. And Trier's age is not its only claim to glory. It is known above all for having been one of the seats of power of the Holy Roman Empire, one of the great centers of Early Christianity as well as a dynamic medieval town. Of these three periods, the city has retained some precious architectural marks. The tour continues on foot. We'll discover (exteriors ony) the Amphitheater, the tenth biggest in all of the Roman Empire which could hold up to 30,000 spectators. We'll move on to the Imperial Baths which were sumptuously arranged inside: marble on the walls, floors, mosaics, frescoes on the walls, statues. The thermae buildings form a rectangle 140m x 250 m. Continuation to the Basilica of Constantine. Since its construction in about 310, the basilica has never been out of use. From the very start, the edifice was an imposing one - 67 m long, 27 m wide and 30 m high. Over time, numerous buildings have been added. Finally, we'll discover the famous Porta Nigra which was designed as a gate as well as a monument. Even Rome today does not have an ancient building of this size in such a state of conservation. Afterwards, we'll walk round the city center, marked by the Middle Ages thanks to St Peter's Cathedral in particular (exteriors only). Its oldest parts date from 326, but the general layout of the church was considerably altered in the 10th century. You'll also be able to enjoy the atmosphere on the Hauptmarkt - the Main Market square. Highly Baroque and located in the heart of the city center, its mixture of styles will enchant you. Old timber-framed houses mingle with classical pastel-colored houses, decorated with white stucco. At the end of your guided tour, you will have some free time to stroll around the town at your own pace. Return to the boat by coach.

PLEASE NOTE

• Comfortable shoes are recommended.
• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.

Luxembourg is a real mix of styles and cultures. We’ll set out on a guided tour on foot to get a closer look at some of the sites, including the Place des Armes, Place de la Constitution, capital buildings, Corniche, old city, Grand Ducal Palace (exterior), and Place Guillaume II.

After our tour, we'll return to the ship in Remich. We'll visit a winery(1) and enjoy a tasting*. You’ll discover the secrets to wine making while strolling through underground passages that seem to go on for miles. After our excursion, we'll return on board our ship.

PLEASE NOTE

• (1) In case the original winery isn't available, we'll visit an other one.
• Times are approximate and can change according to our navigational route.
• The order of the visits can change.
• *Alcohol can be harmful to your health. Please drink in moderation.

Although Stuttgart is known for its wine and museums,  its fame as the birthplace of the German automobile industry is what draws most tourists to the city. Like many German cities, it was ravaged by Allied bombings toward the end of World War II, so it is now dominated by modern architecture with a few lovely exceptions, most notably the Old Castle located on the Schillerplatz. The origins of the castle date back to the 10th century. In the 14th century, it became the home of the Counts of Württemberg. After being severely damaged in the first part of the 20th century, a local professor headed up its renovation.  This tour will also bring you to iconic sites and buildings such as the Porsche and Mercedes-Benz museums. At the end of our excursion, we’ll stop at a local bierstube for a drink and a traditional German pretzel.

PLEASE NOTE

• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.

We'll leave by coach from Mannheim to Heidelberg. Its unique charm comes from the harmonious combination of romanticism, dynamism, legend and modernity. We'll take a guided tour of the outsides of the Heidelberg Castle on foot. It is partially in ruins, and as such has inspired generations of painters and poets ever since the 18th century. They perceived the damaged castle as a testimony to the grandeur and decadence of human creations. Goethe, Hölderlin, Uhland and Eichendorff celebrated the landscape surrounding the castle while many others took it as a model itself. Don't miss the geometric terraces of the Palatinate gardens, once considered the "8th world wonder”. The gardens' architect, Salomon de Caus, wanted to recreate the harmony with which city, river and hills all around intertwined. After this guided tour, you will take the coach down into the Neckarmünzplatz in the old historic city center for a guided tour on foot. You will admire the Saint-Esprit Church (exterior view) and will have some free time for shopping before taking the coach back to the boat. On the way back you will go through the city center of Mannheim, where you will find the boat.

PLEASE NOTE

• The access to the castle needs to climb up a 300m gradient.
• We cannot visit the inside of the castle at this time of year.
• Good walking shoes are recommended.
• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.

Frankfurt is the largest financial center in continental Europe, earning it the nickname "Mainhatten." During a panoramic tour of the city, you'll be able to admire the huge skyscrapers housing the headquarters of many international banks which create the city's famous skyline. We'll ascend the Main Tower, the most well-known skyscraper in the city, built entirely with a blue glass exterior. From over 656 feet up, you'll be able to take in the glorious views of the city spread out below.

PLEASE NOTE

• Good walking shoes are recommended.
• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.

The Maulbronn Monastery complex, founded in the 12th century by Cistercian monks, is one of the best-preserved in Europe. The Romanesque church and Gothic cloister are surrounded by medieval walls and towers, making it a popular historic landmark for visitors from across the world.

PLEASE NOTE

• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.

You will set off on foot from accompanied by your guides and visit the town of Mainz. Capital of the Rhine Palatinate, Mainz was founded more than 2000 years ago by the Romans. In the 17th and 18th centuries, the top architects and sculptors created the basic shape of the town, with fine palaces and churches. Here you can admire the magnificent historic houses which have been outstandingly well-restored. Located on the banks of the Rhine opposite the confluence of the Rhine with the Main, Mainz will captivate you with its quite incomparable lifestyle, its unique charm and its openness to the world. In the company of your guide, you will be able to enter the magnificent Cathedral, whose construction began in 975 and which has left a deep mark on the history of the town. The interior of the cathedral houses some wonderful historic treasures, including tombs and funerary monuments from the 13th to the 18th centuries. You will also have the opportunity to wander up and down the colorful streets in the old town. Finally you will visit the Gutenberg Museum, the world's finest museum for printing equipment, materials and books. Born in Mainz around 1400, Johannes Gensfleisch Gutenberg himself prepared the copy of the Bible referred to as "the 42-line Bible” which was published in 1455 - the oldest printed book in the world. Out of the 46 copies still in existence, the museum has just one, along with a "Mainz Psalter”, the first ever document printed using three different colors of ink. The museum extends over five floors and provides a quite remarkable exhibition on the history of the book and written word in both Europe and the world as a whole. Return on board on foot.

PLEASE NOTE

• The Gutenberg Museum is closed on Sunday mornings and on Mondays.
• Good walking shoes are recommended: visit entirely on foot; streets are cobblestoned in the old town.
• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.

We'll go to the center of Rüdesheim to catch a gondola lift to the Niederwalddenkmal, a monument built in the 19th century to commemorate the first unification of Germany. From there, you'll have a great view of the small city, the vineyards and the Rhine. We'll hike through the vineyards to the Abbey of St. Hildegard, built in the early 20th century. You'll have some free time to explore the abbey before we return to the ship through the vineyards once more.

PLEASE NOTE

• Wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes.
• 8km-hike with a 300m elevation gain.
• Times are approximate.
• The order of the visits can change.

Departure for the visit of Heidelberg. This cosmopolitan, friendly, and vibrant city is made up of 15 distinct neighborhoods and is particularly attractive to families, students, business people, and researchers. Its high quality of life comes through to visitors, who feel genuinely at home here. We'll begin with a visit to the outside of Heidelberg Castle, where you'll be able to see the Renaissance ruins and parts of its restoration. The castle has a history that is almost as old as the city itself. From either the Great Terrace or the gardens, enjoy an amazing view over Heidelberg, the Neckar River, and the valley. Don't miss seeing the Heidelberg Tun. Built in 1751 by Prince Elector Karl Theodor, it housed the wine paid as taxes by the wine growers in the region. Legend has it that the permanently intoxicated court jester who guarded the cask, Perkeo, died after mistakenly drinking a simple glass of water. You can also enjoy a stroll through the castle gardens, once considered a masterpiece of their time. Built upon several terraces, they were made up of many flower beds, mazes, sculptures, heated greenhouse with orange trees, large ponds, waterfalls, and a man-made grotto. We'll then head for the Neckarmünzplatz, on the banks of the Necker River, and continue with a guided tour of the old city. We'll pass by the Church of the Holy Spirit, the most famous church in Heidelberg, whose steeple dominates the town. And then you can take advantage of some free time to wander through the streets and shops before returning on board.

PLEASE NOTE

• Depending on the cruise, departure and/or return on board in Mannheim
• The access to the castle needs climbing up a 300m gradient.
• Good walking shoes are recommended.
• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.

The Technik Museum Sinsheim opened in 1981. The museum’s featured exhibits are an extraordinary collection of vehicles and aircraft, including an Air France Concorde and the Soviet-era Tupolev Tu-144. This unguided visit lets you take in the wonders at your own pace. Don’t miss the 300 vintage cars and the Formula 1 collection. Other fascinating pieces include military tanks and equipment and mechanical organs.

PLEASE NOTE

• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.

We’ll leave from our mooring in Strasbourg for Rust, Germany, and the Rulantica water park. A ton of fun awaits you and your family at this new indoor water park. Whether you’re looking for splash-time thrills or a relaxing float, the park’s 25 attractions have something for everyone. At 32,600 m², Rulantica is overflowing with obstacle courses, slides, tubing, waves, rapids, and water-filled playgrounds. You’ll be on your own for lunch. At the end of the day, you’ll be transferred back to Strasbourg.

PLEASE NOTE

• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.

Situated at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers, Koblenz offers visitors a rich collection of cultural monuments and historic buildings. Ludwig van Beethoven's mother was born in the city, and Mozart’s family once sojourned here on a trip from Paris to London. We’ll take the funicular railway up the hill to visit the historic castle, where we'll have a magnificent view across the city and valleys. You’ll immediately understand the strategical importance of this fortress throughout history as the land stretches as far as the eye can see. Afterwards, enjoy some free time at the Christmas market, where the yuletide tradition has taken place for centuries. The romantic holiday market runs from the old city to the famous Deutsches Eck. Explore the city on your own before returning to the ship.

PLEASE NOTE

• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.

Porsche Museum

The Porsche museum began as a modest structure in the 1970s that could hold about 20 exhibits. Today’s modern building holds over 80 exhibits of rare cars and historic models from the Porsche Dynasty. Learn about the company’s founder, Ferdinand Porsche, and its past-to-present vehicles. The museum itself is a classy contrast of black and white that accents the vibrant colors of the cars.  In addition to its emblematic models such as the 356, 550, 911, and 917, you’ll discover some of the unfinished technical designs from Ferdinand Porsche.

PLEASE NOTE

• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.

Departure on foot for downtown Köln. You will discover the city in the company of your guide. Crossroads of Europe since the Middle Ages, Köln has kept its importance as a vibrant commercial and industrial city as well as a cultural and religious center. which has kept its importance both on a commercial and industrial level as well as on a cultural and religious level. You will be able to admire the exterior façades of the huge Gothic Köln Cathedral which took five centuries to complete. Indeed, although construction started in 1247, it was interrupted due to a lack of financing in 1560 and only started again in 1842 upon request of Emperor Frederick Wilhelm IV, who had fallen in love with the building. Construction was finally completed in 1863 and the Gothic Cathedral was the highest building in the world from 1880 to 1884. Around the Cathedral, 12 other Romanesque style churches are set in a circle, representing the 12 holy apostles. We'll then move on to the Old Town and stop to admire the outside of the neo-Gothic building, home of the famous "Eau de Cologne".
Before returning on board, we will have some free time to stroll through the streets of Köln or try the famous local beer, the Kölsch(1). Return on board by coach in Königswinter.

PLEASE NOTE

• The ship sails during the excursion.
• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.
• (1) Not included - to be paid for on location.

Departure on foot for downtown Cologne. You will discover the city in the company of your guide. Crossroads of Europe since the Middle Ages, Cologne has kept its importance as a vibrant commercial and industrial city as well as a cultural and religious center. You will be able to admire the exterior façades of the huge Gothic Cologne Cathedral which took five centuries to complete. Indeed, although construction started in 1247, it was interrupted due to a lack of financing in 1560 and only started again in 1842 upon request of Emperor Frederick Wilhelm IV, who had fallen in love with the building. Construction was finally completed in 1863 and the Gothic Cathedral was the highest building in the world from 1880 to 1884. Around the Cathedral, 12 other Romanesque style churches are set in a circle, representing the 12 holy apostles. We'll then move on to the Old Town and stop to admire the outside of the neo-Gothic building, home of the famous "Eau de Cologne".
Before returning on board, we will have some free time to stroll through the streets of Cologne or try the famous local beer, the Kölsch(1). You will be able to make your way back to the boat on foot at your own pace.

PLEASE NOTE

• (1) not included.
• Alcohol can be harmful to your health. Please drink in moderation.
• Good walking shoes are recommended.
• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.
• These excursions are not proposed for all the cruises and depend on the itinerary.
• If the minimum of 25 participants is not reached, the excursion may be either cancelled or proposed at another rate, depending on the number of participants (to be paid for on board).
• The excursions on the first evening and the morning following boarding are only guaranteed for the passengers who have booked the excursion before the cruise.

Luxembourg is a real mix of styles and cultures. We’ll set out on a guided tour on foot to get a closer look at some of the sites, including the Place des Armes, Place de la Constitution, capital buildings, Corniche, old city, Grand Ducal Palace (exterior), and Place Guillaume II. After our tour, we’ll enjoy some free time in the city before we return to the ship in Remich.

PLEASE NOTE

• Times are approximate and can change according to our navigational route.
• The order of the visits can change.

Discover Strasbourg from the water! We’ll see all the great sites on the riverbanks, from Petite France—listed as UNESCO World Heritage site since 1988—to the European quarter where institutions such as the Council of Europe and the European Parliament are located. After, we’ll continue on foot to the magnificent Gothic cathedral, built over three centuries. The famous west front is decorated with thousands of figures and its spire measures over 466 feet. The cathedral is built out of red sandstone from the nearby Vosges Mountains, which gives it its characteristic pink hue that changes according to the sunlight and the color of the sky. Standing before the symbol of the city, you’ll understand why Victor Hugo called it a “gigantic and delicate” marvel. It is one of the very few Gothic churches with only one tower. Among its wonders are the stained glass windows, including the 46-foot high Rose Window. The great organ is a masterpiece to see as well as to hear, and the astronomical clock is a Renaissance treasure not to be missed. We'll return by tour boat to the ship.

PLEASE NOTE

• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.

The excursion to Frankfurt will begin with a panoramic tour of the city by coach. Frankfurt am Main is a dynamic and international city with Germany's most imposing skyline. Under the skyscrapers, you'll find cozy pubs; and at the heart of the bustling city center, you'll find sites full of history. Frankfurt also has an unrivalled museum scene featuring masterpieces spanning nine centuries of European art. We'll leave the coach behind to visit the city on foot. After passing in front of the dominant Frankfurt Cathedral, we'll discover the old city and the Römerberg, the seat of the city's government since the 15th century. Formerly called the Samstagsberg, it has been the site of markets and fairs, tournaments and festivals, executions, imperial elections and coronations. Here you'll also find a plaque commemorating the book burning by the National Socialists in 1933. After our tour, enjoy some free time before returning to the ship on foot.

PLEASE NOTE

• Visit of the city on foot : possibility to get to the boat by coach at the end of the excursion.
• People who want to enjoy free time in the city will get back to the boat on foot.
• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.

Departure from Nijmegen by coach in the company of your hostess for the Dutch Open Air Museum in Arnhem, which is located in a beautiful wooded park (44 ha). Some 80 authentic farms, windmills, workshops, houses, barns, a church and a school provide an insight on the everyday life and architecture of yesteryear.
Upon arrival, our hostess will hand you a ticket so you can visit the museum on your own. Inside every building, you'll be intrigued by the typical furniture and the displays of various trades and crafts. Some of the buildings are grouped together, such as the beautiful Limburg timber-framed buildings or the Gelderland farms, but the most charming spot is without a doubt the area dedicated to the Zaan region, with its green painted wooden houses and tastefully decorated gables. Our visit will start with the renovated entrance pavilion and its good vantage point over the park and its many windmills. There are farming implements on display in many areas, like the collections center. The lower level gives access to the spectacular panoramic theater HollandRama. In this mobile capsule, films, sounds, lights, smells and temperatures evoke different scenes, from cityscapes to the confines of houses. Return on board by coach.

PLEASE NOTE

• This is an unguided tour.
• Bags can be let to the left luggage office.
• Information in the museum (notice board) is given in Dutch, in English and in German.
• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.

Departure on foot in the company of your guide who will introduce you to the charming village of Cochem, the pearl of the Moselle. The visit will begin on the opposite bank from Cochem, in Cond. The Moselle bridge linked this old fishermen town to Cochem in 1927. As you cross the bridge, you will be able to spot the 900-year-old Cochem Imperial Castle (the Reichsburg) sitting on the hilltop.
Arrival in Cochem. We will stop to admire a fresco relating the history of the town from its occupation by Roman legions to the 20th century. Afterwards, our guide will take us through the streets lined with picturesque half-timbered houses. We'll get to see St Martin's Catholic Parish Church, the Capuchin Monastery, the Market Square and more.
After our tour, we will have some free time to walk along the Moselle and enjoy the green landscape.

PLEASE NOTE

• Good walking shoes are recommended.
• Return on board on foot.
• The order of the visits can change.
• Times are approximate.