Day 1 : Fly to Europe

Our journey begins with an overnight flight to Switzerland.

Day 2 : Mount Rigi

Upon arriving in Zurich, we motorcoach to Lucerne, a city known for its medieval architecture and mountain landscapes. Next, a relaxing ferry ride takes us across the glistening blue water of Lake Lucerne to Vitznau for a special cogwheel rail journey up Mount Rigi. Take time to relax and soak up breathtaking panoramic views of Swiss Mittlelland at the highest point, Rigi Kulm, before descending by cable car. Later, we return to Lucerne and check in to our accommodations, then get to know fellow travelers over a delicious Welcome Dinner.

Day 3 : Lucerne & Set Sail

After breakfast, we embark on a walking tour of Lucerne to see the most iconic sights such as Chapel Bridge, a covered wooden footbridge decorated with interior paintings that spans the river Reuss. This afternoon, experience a Swiss folklore lunch at Stadtkeller with hearty fare and traditional Swiss music that features cowbells, flag throwing, and yodeling by locals dressed in customary outfits. We then board the luxurious AMADEUS Star cruise ship in Basel. Enjoy beautiful views from the comfort of your stateroom and all meals included on board. Once settled, we gather for a reception and dinner together.

Day 4 : Strasbourg

Our first port of call is Strasbourg, located on the French border with Germany and home to the European Parliament. Settle into a comfortable motorcoach with a local guide for a city tour to view incredible architecture and the historic center, where we visit the famous Strasbourg Cathedral and the Grand Île, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Our sightseeing continues with a delightful canal cruise on the river, featuring vistas of old half-timbered houses and a former mill in “Petite France.” We also see the Palais de Rohan, Council of Europe, and Ponts Couverts, a set of three bridges and four towers from the 13th century. Later, relax on the sun deck or treat yourself to a massage as we sail to Germany.

Day 5 : Speyer & Heidelberg

We start our day docking in the beautiful town of Speyer. Enjoy a guided walking tour to see the most noteworthy attractions, like the Speyer Cathedral, which dominates the landscape with its grand structure and beauty. Afterwards, there’s time to grab lunch and relax aboard the ship on our way to Mannheim. Once docked, we take a short drive to Heidelberg, Germany’s oldest university town that’s known for its Baroque narrow streets, picturesque red tiled roofs, and stunning 18th-century bridges. Our time here includes an enchanting tour of Heidelberg Castle from the early 1200s, the country’s most popular castle ruin.

Day 6 : Vineyards & the Middle Rhine

This morning’s port is Rudesheim, a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the heart of Reingau wine region, especially known for its Rieslings. We board the Winzerexpress for a tram ride through the scenic Rhine Valley vineyards to a local winery and indulge in various regional flavors. Next, spend time strolling down the area’s charming alley, Drosselgasse, to see fabulous wineries, markets, and historic buildings. This afternoon, head to the ship’s top deck for spectacular views of castles and steep hillsides as we cruise the gorgeous Middle Rhine into the Rhine Gorge. Later in the day, we arrive at one of the oldest and most diverse cities in Germany, Koblenz, located at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers. Marvel at the architecture of churches, castles, and palaces during our exploration, then take a cable car ride above the Rhine to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. Dating back to 1000 AD, it houses the Koblenz State Museum with expansive, interesting exhibits and is one of Europe’s largest preserved fortresses.

Day 7 : Moselle River & Cochem

Today, we depart Koblenz and cruise through one of Germany’s most beautiful river valleys along the Moselle. Gaze upon vineyards, castles, and ruins dotting the rolling hillsides with quaint villages and towns near the riverbanks. Our ship docks in the enchanting town of Cochem, known for its traditional half-timbered houses and wine culture dating back over a thousand years. Here, we visit medieval Reichsburg Castle, famously rebuilt in a fairytale style and perched on a rugged rock above the town. Admire its Renaissance and Baroque interior, then take in spectacular vistas of the Moselle Valley below.

Day 8 : Cologne

Our port of call today is 2,000-year-old Cologne. This cultural hub is a landmark of High Gothic architecture, with the extraordinary twin-spired cathedral being the most impressive example. On our guided walking tour, learn how the city was rebuilt after the World War II bombing and has since become an affluent area boasting numerous museums and art galleries, including many masterpieces by Picasso. We also enjoy a tasting of Cologne’s famous beer, called Kolsch! Our cruise ship departs in the afternoon, allowing time for relaxation before this evening’s dinner at the Captain’s Gala.

Day 9 : Amsterdam, Volendam & Edam

This morning, we embark on an incredible guided tour of Amsterdam and a quintessential canal cruise for unique views from the city’s waterway. Later, we board our motorcoach for an afternoon excursion to charming fishing villages. Our first stop is Volendam, known for its vibrant harbor, distinctive music, and time-honored traditions, including authentic costumes that can still be seen today. A short drive out to the countryside brings us to a local cheese farm, where we learn the fascinating process of how Dutch cheese is made and sample some ourselves. Before returning to our ship, we also visit Edam, known for its cheese and Carillon tower. Stroll down its narrow cobblestone streets to appreciate the beautiful historic buildings and visit the Cheese Weighhouse.

Day 10 : Rijksmuseum & Haarlem

We disembark in Amsterdam for a morning packed with fine arts on a guided tour of the country’s largest museum, Rijksmuseum. Immerse yourself in 800 years of Dutch history as you stroll the halls decorated with 16th and 17th-century art featuring works by Vermeer, Frans Hals, and Rembrandt. Our exploration continues with a walking tour in Haarlem to see exterior views of St. Bavo Church and the Corrie ten Boom Museum, a hiding place for Jews during World War II. Our accommodations for the next two evenings are at a wonderful hotel in Haarlem.

Day 11 : Zaanse Schans

Our last full day begins with a step back in time at Zaanse Schans, an open-air museum that brings Dutch heritage to life with a recreated 18th-19th century village. Admire the traditional buildings and restored windmills, learn about regional costumes, explore exhibits on chocolate making, and watch artisans make cheese, clogs, and other crafts. Tonight, we gather to celebrate our travels with a Farewell Dinner.

Day 12 : Fly Home

We board our flight today and return home with unforgettable memories of our time in Europe.