AMSTERDAM – EMBARKATION. Board the ship in Amsterdam for your Captivating Rhine cruise.

AMSTERDAM. There are 165 canals in Amsterdam, and you’ll get enjoy some of them on your canal cruise. Later in the day, set sail out of Amsterdam to Utrecht, where you can explore this charming town on a walking tour or sip beer during a special tasting tour. (B,L,D)

Discover the captivating charm of Utrecht, the heart of the Netherlands. Nestled along picturesque canals, this vibrant city boasts medieval architecture, lively cafes, and a rich cultural scene. Stroll along the wharf and enjoy delightful views, or visit the iconic Dom Tower for panoramic vistas. Utrecht is a gateway to explore the idyllic Dutch countryside and nearby charming villages, offering a perfect blend of history and modernity. Let the allure of this enchanting port and its surroundings inspire your next unforgettable journey.

DÜSSELDORF. As a leading hub for German culture, commerce and architecture, Düsseldorf is a must-visit city for any travelers on the Rhine. Here, you will have multiple options for the day’s excursion. Explore this grand city on the Rhine by joining a walking tour, concluding with a tasting of Altbier, a local specialty brewed using traditional techniques. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a brief trip to the nearby city of Cologne. 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 Fishmarkt, which dates back to the 12th century and the Great St. Martin Church. (B,L,D)

RHINE GORGE - RÜDESHEIM*. Cruise through the captivating UNESCO-designated Rhine Gorge, the most stunningly beautiful stretch of the river before reaching the winemaking town of Rüdesheim. Drink up the stunning views by soaring high above the vineyards with a gondola ride to the Niederwalddenkmal, then enjoy a wine tasting to discover the flavors of the town’s iconic vineyards. 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, 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.

LUDWIGSHAFEN. Ludwigshafen is your gateway to a choice of three 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 join a guided bike tour along the shores of the river Neckar and enjoy a cycling break to explore the picturesque medieval town of Ladenburg. (B,L,D)

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)

BREISACH, GERMANY. Breisach is your gateway to several different excursions. Step back in time with a visit to the enchanting Alsatian town of Colmar, which looks almost the same as it did in the 16th century. On your walking tour, admire historic architecture and perhaps get a glimpse of the Statue of Liberty, a small replica of the famous version in New York, to commemorate the sculptor’s Colmar birthplace. Those wishing a more active excursion can cycle through the countryside, or hike through the heart of the Kaiserstuhl, a volcanic region in the Rhine plain known for its unique landscapes, vineyards, and exceptional biodiversity. (B,L,D)

BASEL, SWITZERLAND – DISEMBARKATION. After breakfast, disembark the ship and before transferring to Lake Lucerne, go on a highlights tour of 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 and exquisite 18th century patrician homes. After that, depart for Lake Lucerne. (B)