BASEL, SWITZERLAND - EMBARKATION. Embark your ship in Basel for your Swiss Alps & Rhine Castles cruise. (D)

BASEL. Enjoy getting to know Basel, Switzerland’s third largest city. Long an important university, banking and trade center, Basel’s glorious past is still evident in its medieval town hall, richly decorated market square and exquisite 18th-century patrician homes. Tour the city by foot or on a guided bike tour that takes you through three countries: Switzerland, France and Germany. Alternatively, go on a full-day excursion* to Lucerne to explore its medieval towers. In the afternoon, for guests who have not chosen the full-day Lucerne excursion, visit a local winery to sample Swiss wines, tour Wildegg Castle, a fortress built by the Habsburgs in the early 13th century that features a 3,300 square meter garden, or embark on an exhilarating hike to the castle. (B,L,D)

*Not combinable with other tours on this day.

STRASBOURG, FRANCE. Strasbourg offers flavors of both France and Germany because of its borderline location. Enjoy walking through the iconic “La Petite France” district, lifted straight from the pages of a fairytale. Wander through charming streets past the Cathédrale de Nôtre Dame with its famous astronomical clock. Alternatively, take a guided bike ride through the city and Parc de l’Orangerie. (B,L,D)

LUDWIGSHAFEN, GERMANY – RÜDESHEIM. Ludwigshafen is your gateway to a choice of four excursions. Visit Heidelberg, the perfectly preserved medieval city nestled in the Neckar River Valley along Germany’s Castle Road. Discover the iconic red sandstone Heidelberg Castle and Great Vat, an 18th-century, 49,000-gallon wine cask. For a more active adventure while in Heidelberg, join a guided hike up the Philosopher’s Path, aptly named during the Romantic Period, and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Alternatively, you can visit one of Germany’s oldest cities, Speyer, known for the largest Romanesque cathedral in Europe—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—and the medieval Old Gate, Altpörtel. Or pedal along the river Neckar to the picturesque medieval city center of Ladenburg and enjoy some free time to explore the shops. Later in the day, cruise to the charming village of Rüdesheim and let Siegfried’s Mechanical Instrument Cabinet charm you with its remarkable collection of self-playing musical instruments; or taste one of the town’s special delights, Rüdesheimer coffee, ceremoniously made with brandy, coffee and whipped cream. (B,L,D)

Rüdesheim am Rhein, nestled in Germany's picturesque Rhine Valley, invites you to explore its enchanting medieval charm and celebrated Riesling wines. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, this captivating town features the historic Bromserburg Castle, home to the Rheingau Wine Museum. Wander through idyllic vineyards and savor seasonal delicacies like Zwiebelkuchen alongside exquisite local wines. Embrace the stunning landscapes through Nordic walking and cycling on scenic trails. Don't miss the breathtaking views from the Niederwald Monument, and lose yourself in the architectural beauty of Old Town with gems like Eagle Tower and Rheinstein Castle. Experience the essence of Germany in Rüdesheim.

RÜDESHEIM. Join a wine tasting to discover the flavors of the town’s iconic vineyards and drink up the stunning views by soaring high above the vineyards with a gondola ride to the Niederwalddenkmal. For a more active adventure, hike through the town’s beautiful vineyards or join a guided bike tour along the scenic Rhine River. Later in the day, cruise through the captivating UNESCO-designated Rhine Gorge, the most stunningly beautiful stretch of the river before reaching Lahnstein, where you will enjoy a unique evening visit at Lahneck Castle. (B,L,D)

Nestled along the picturesque banks of the Rhine River, Lahnstein offers an enchanting gateway to Germany's rich history and vibrant culture. This charming port town is a stone's throw from the majestic castles of the Rhine, inviting travelers to explore medieval architecture and lush vineyards. Stroll through the historic streets, savor exquisite local wines, and enjoy breathtaking views of the river valley. Just a short distance away lies the bustling city of Koblenz, where the Moselle meets the Rhine, perfect for experiencing the fusion of natural beauty and urban allure. Indulge in the elegance of a river cruise and let Lahnstein captivate your spirit.

COLOGNE, GERMANY. Enjoy cruising to Cologne, then join a guided tour through the enchanting Old Town, where you will see sites such as the Cologne Rathaus, Germany’s oldest town hall; the Fischmarkt, which dates back to the 12th century and the Great St. Martin Church. End your city tour with a visit to a local tavern to taste its famous Kölsch beer. Active guests will want to join a guided bike ride along the Rhine and through the historic Stadtgarten. (B,L,D)

AMSTERDAM, THE NETHERLANDS. There are 165 canals in Amsterdam, and you’ll get to enjoy some of them on your canal cruise. Alternatively, get a taste of local flavor, passing iconic canals, gabled houses, narrow bridges and house boats while tasting Dutch specialties at one of Amsterdam’s grand cafes. (B,L,D)

**May be replaced with alternate tour based on docking location.

AMSTERDAM – DISEMBARKATION. Bid Farewell to Amsterdam and prepare for your homeward flight. (B)