Zurich
Zurich 12/14/2024
Arrive in Zurich and check into your hotel.,
|
12/14/2024 |
12/14/2024 |
Zurich
Zurich 12/15/2024
Switzerland's largest city, Zurich, seamlessly blends its historic past with its progressive future—all of which will be on full display during your city tour. (B),
|
12/15/2024 |
12/15/2024 |
Zurich
Zurich 12/16/2024
Check out of your hotel and transfer to Lucerne, where you'll enjoy a scenic lake cruise before checking into your hotel. (B),
|
12/16/2024 |
12/16/2024 |
Lucerne
Lucerne 12/16/2024
Check out of your hotel and transfer to Lucerne, where you'll enjoy a scenic lake cruise before checking into your hotel. (B),
|
12/16/2024 |
12/16/2024 |
Lucerne
Lucerne 12/17/2024
Lucerne's beauty and charm is unrivaled. You'll discover this beauty on a walking tour, during which you will stop at the iconic Lion Monument, sculpted in memory of the Swiss Guards massacred during the French Revolution. You'll also visit the spectacular medieval walls and towers, dating back to the 13th century. (B),
|
12/17/2024 |
12/17/2024 |
Lucerne
Lucerne 12/18/2024
Check out of your hotel and before boarding the ship, go on a highlights tour of Switzerland's third-largest city. (B,D), Embark your ship in Basel, Switzerland, and meet your fellow passengers onboard. (D),
|
12/18/2024 |
12/18/2024 |
Cruise Starts (Embarkation)
Cruise Starts (Embarkation) 12/18/2024
Check out of your hotel and before boarding the ship, go on a highlights tour of Switzerland's third-largest city. (B,D), Embark your ship in Basel, Switzerland, and meet your fellow passengers onboard. (D),
|
12/18/2024 |
12/18/2024 |
Basel
Basel 12/18/2024
Check out of your hotel and before boarding the ship, go on a highlights tour of Switzerland's third-largest city. (B,D), Embark your ship in Basel, Switzerland, and meet your fellow passengers onboard. (D),
|
12/18/2024 |
12/18/2024 |
Breisach
Breisach 12/19/2024
Breisach is your gateway to several different excursions, depending on your interests. Step back in time with a visit to the enchanting Alsatian town of Riquewihr, which looks almost the same as it did in the 16th century. On your walking tour, admire historic architecture as well as famous sights, such as the Dolder Tower, plus enjoy free time to visit the Christmas markets. Alternatively, you may wish to go to Freiburg, founded in 1120 and home to the Freiburg's Münster, a Gothic cathedral said to have "the most beautiful spire on earth". Your time in Freiburg also includes time to browse the Christmas markets. Those wishing a more active excursion can cycle through the scenic countryside, or go on a hike to the Black Forest, a magical land full of cultural traditions, as well as home to elaborate cuckoo clocks. (B,L,D),
|
12/19/2024 |
12/19/2024 |
Colmar
Colmar 12/19/2024
Breisach is your gateway to several different excursions, depending on your interests. Step back in time with a visit to the enchanting Alsatian town of Riquewihr, which looks almost the same as it did in the 16th century. On your walking tour, admire historic architecture as well as famous sights, such as the Dolder Tower, plus enjoy free time to visit the Christmas markets. Alternatively, you may wish to go to Freiburg, founded in 1120 and home to the Freiburg's Münster, a Gothic cathedral said to have "the most beautiful spire on earth". Your time in Freiburg also includes time to browse the Christmas markets. Those wishing a more active excursion can cycle through the scenic countryside, or go on a hike to the Black Forest, a magical land full of cultural traditions, as well as home to elaborate cuckoo clocks. (B,L,D),
|
12/19/2024 |
12/19/2024 |
Strasbourg
Strasbourg 12/20/2024
Strasbourg, the capital city of Alsace, offers flavors of both France and Germany. Enjoy a panoramic tour past the stunning Parc de l'Orangerie, the European Parliament, and the Place de la République. Then, walk through its iconic UNESCO World Heritage "La Petite France" district, which appears to have been lifted straight from the pages of a fairytale. Wander through these charming streets and past the Notre-Dame Cathedral with its famous astronomical clock. Following your tour, you'll have free time to visit the Christmas markets. Alternatively, the active adventurer can take a guided bike ride through this captivating city and Parc de l'Orangerie. (B,L,D),
|
12/20/2024 |
12/20/2024 |
Ludwigshafen
Ludwigshafen 12/21/2024
You have a choice of several excursions, depending on your interest. Visit Heidelberg, a perfectly preserved medieval city nestled in the Neckar River Valley along Germany's Castle Road. Here you can also enjoy visiting some of the festive Christmas markets. Alternatively, relive a bygone era on a tour of the glorious Schwetzingen Baroque Palace. Or, you may decide to visit Schwetzingen Palace Gardens with more than 100 sculptures and an assortment of whimsical buildings. The Apollotempel houses a statue of the ancient Greek god of light and the arts, playing the lyre; and the most spectacular, the Türkischer Garten with a mosque, are a few of the many highlights you will see. For a more active adventure while in Heidelberg, join a guided hike up the Philosophers' Path, aptly named during the Romantic Period, and be rewarded with panoramic views of the city. Later in the day, sail to Rüdesheim where you can or taste one of the town's special delights, Riesling wine or Rüdesheimer coffee, ceremoniously made with brandy. (B,L,D),
|
12/21/2024 |
12/21/2024 |
Heidelberg
Heidelberg 12/21/2024
You have a choice of several excursions, depending on your interest. Visit Heidelberg, a perfectly preserved medieval city nestled in the Neckar River Valley along Germany's Castle Road. Here you can also enjoy visiting some of the festive Christmas markets. Alternatively, relive a bygone era on a tour of the glorious Schwetzingen Baroque Palace. Or, you may decide to visit Schwetzingen Palace Gardens with more than 100 sculptures and an assortment of whimsical buildings. The Apollotempel houses a statue of the ancient Greek god of light and the arts, playing the lyre, and the most spectacular, the Türkischer Garten with a mosque, are a few of the many highlights you will see. Later in the day, sail to Rüdesheim where you can taste one of the town's special delights, Riesling wine or Rüdesheim coffee, ceremoniously made with brandy. (B,L,D),
|
12/21/2024 |
12/21/2024 |
Rudesheim
Rudesheim 12/21/2024
You have a choice of several excursions, depending on your interest. Visit Heidelberg, a perfectly preserved medieval city nestled in the Neckar River Valley along Germany's Castle Road. Here you can also enjoy visiting some of the festive Christmas markets. Alternatively, relive a bygone era on a tour of the glorious Schwetzingen Baroque Palace. Or, you may decide to visit Schwetzingen Palace Gardens with more than 100 sculptures and an assortment of whimsical buildings. The Apollotempel houses a statue of the ancient Greek god of light and the arts, playing the lyre; and the most spectacular, the Türkischer Garten with a mosque, are a few of the many highlights you will see. For a more active adventure while in Heidelberg, join a guided hike up the Philosophers' Path, aptly named during the Romantic Period, and be rewarded with panoramic views of the city. Later in the day, sail to Rüdesheim where you can or taste one of the town's special delights, Riesling wine or Rüdesheimer coffee, ceremoniously made with brandy. (B,L,D),
|
12/21/2024 |
12/21/2024 |
Rudesheim
Rudesheim 12/22/2024
Your exploration of Rüdesheim continues with your choice of four excursions. Take a gondola ride to the Niederwalddenkmal Statue followed by a visit to the Christmas markets. Or, enjoy a whimsical visit to Siegfried's Mechanical Music Museum, treating your senses to the delight of historic instruments. Alternatively, you can join a guided bike ride through the town and along the Rhine River to Schloss Johannisberg or hike through the town's beautiful vineyards. You'll also have plenty of time to enjoy Christmas traditions from all over the world at Rüdesheim Christmas market. During the afternoon, set sail along the scenic Rhine River Gorge with its fabled legends and many castles. (B,L,D),
|
12/22/2024 |
12/22/2024 |
Rhine Gorge
Rhine Gorge 12/22/2024
Your exploration of Rüdesheim continues with your choice of four excursions. Take a gondola ride to the Niederwalddenkmal Statue followed by a visit to the Christmas markets. Or, enjoy a whimsical visit to Siegfried's Mechanical Music Museum, treating your senses to the delight of historic instruments. Alternatively, you can join a guided bike ride through the town and along the Rhine River to Schloss Johannisberg or hike through the town's beautiful vineyards. You'll also have plenty of time to enjoy Christmas traditions from all over the world at Rüdesheim Christmas market. During the afternoon, set sail along the scenic Rhine River Gorge with its fabled legends and many castles. (B,L,D),
|
12/22/2024 |
12/22/2024 |
Bernkastel
Bernkastel 12/23/2024
Sail to Bernkastel, located in the middle of the Moselle Valley's wine-producing region. Walk through its colorful Old Town center and past many medieval and Renaissance buildings on a guided tour, and afterwards, be treated to a wine tasting. Cycling enthusiasts can choose to join a bike tour along the shores of the Moselle River, and hikers can opt to trek up to the ruins of Landshut Castle. (B,L,D),
|
12/23/2024 |
12/23/2024 |
Trier
Trier 12/24/2024
Enjoy a scenic morning cruise along the Moselle River to Trier, Germany's oldest city, where you can discover on a city tour why it has been called the "Rome of the North" or "Second Rome" as it has impressive Roman relics and nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Alternatively, go in search of the secrets of the Porta Nigra gate on a tour that takes you back to a time when Rome ruled the world from the emperor's seat in Trier. You also have the choice of a bike tour through the historic city center and along the Moselle River; or hike high above Trier to Petrisberg. (B,L,D),
|
12/24/2024 |
12/24/2024 |
Cochem
Cochem 12/25/2024
Discover how the castle has been an integral part of the town's history, and afterwards, go on a walking tour along Cochem's narrow cobblestone streets lined with medieval houses. For a more active excursion, hike to the castle or go on a biking tour along the Moselle River. As an alternative excursion, you can visit one of Europe's oldest working mustard mills where you will sample Cochem's famous mustard. (B,L,D),
|
12/25/2024 |
12/25/2024 |
Cologne
Cologne 12/26/2024
Join a guided tour through the Old Town. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage-designated cathedral and then visit one of Europe's largest most renowned Christmas markets located in front of the cathedral. Continue on to the Cologne Rathaus, Germany's oldest town hall, and see other local sights. For a different view of the city, visit a local tavern to taste its famous Kölsch beer, only made in Cologne, and Reibekuchen mit Apfelmus, potato pancakes typically served with applesauce. Active adventurists will want to join a guided bike ride along the Rhine. (B,L,D),
Optional Private Excursions
Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!
-
Cologne historic city centre
Highlights:
Meet our experienced local team member and tailor your walking tour according to your interests and expectations before getting started
Founded by the Roman General Agrippa in 38 B.C, Cologne has a rich Roman and medieval past.
The tour will take you to the most important ancient Roman sites, which include: Remnants of the governor's palace, complete with vaulted Roman sewer, Ruins of a Roman villa, Two-story tomb of Poblicius from 40 A.D., Roman graveyard and vestiges of the ancient stone defences
Visit Cologne's towering landmark, the Cathedral (Dom), a masterpiece of High Gothic architecture and one of the largest cathedrals in Europe
Highlights include the 13th century Reliquary of the Three Kings by Nicholas de Verdun; the 10th century Gero-Crucifix, believed to be the western world's oldest monumental cross, and the luminous Adoration of the Magi triptych by Stephan Lochner (15th century)
See the 14th century Gothic town hall, a Jewish bathing house from 1170 and 'Overstolzenhaus’, Cologne's oldest and finest patrician residence with its steep gables and round arches when strolling the charming pedestrian zone
If of interest visit the Roman-Germanic Museum or Museum Ludwig, the city's famous gallery of 20th century highlights
End your tour at one of the many traditional brewery-style restaurants that dot the city and try a fresh ‘Koelsch’ the famous beer from Cologne before heading back to the ship
Tour Duration: 4 hours
Tour can operate: All day
Wheelchair Accessible: Yes
Physical Activity Level: Light walking tour
Inclusions:
- Touring with one of our excellent local insiders
- Cathedral licensing fee
- All taxes
Not Included:
- Meals
- Optional admissions
- Tipping at your discretion
|
12/26/2024 |
12/26/2024 |
Amsterdam
Amsterdam 12/27/2024
View Amsterdam on a scenic canal cruise followed by a walk to Begijnhof, known for its medieval buildings. Or taste the local flavor on a guided walk past the city's iconic canals, gabled houses, narrow bridges, and house boats, tasting Dutch specialties at a grand Amsterdam cafe. (B,L,D),
Optional Private Excursions
Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!
-
Amsterdam: An Introduction to Amsterdam – 4 hours
Meet your driver at the Port in Amsterdam for a private transfer to the city centre where your guide is waiting to meet you for a walking tour of this beautiful city. Begin at Dam Square, bordered by the Royal Palace and enjoy wonderful views of the canals and gabled houses of the mercantile quarter before visiting the house in which Anne Frank wrote her celebrated diary during the last war*. After your tour, transfer in the comfort of your own private vehicle back to your ship.
*tickets for the Anne Frank House sell out very quickly and are subject to availability. Guides are not allowed to accompany you into the house itself, but will be waiting for you at the end of your visit (approx. 45-90 mins)
Highlights:
Tour Duration: 4 Hours
Tour Can Operate: Morning/ Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Private transport by luxury car or minivan
- An expert local guide for 4 hours
- Entrance fees to all sights and museums
- All taxes
Exclusions:
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
-
Amsterdam: Highlights of Amsterdam - 8 Hours
Spend the day exploring Amsterdam in the hands of your expert guide. You are met at the port and transferred to Dam Square where your morning’s walking tour includes the notable Royal Palace. Admire the views of the canals and the gabled houses of the Canal Ring district, where you will visit the house in which Anne Frank wrote her celebrated diary during the last war*.
After lunch explore the beautifully-restored Rijksmuseum, to admire the stunning collection of masterpieces from the seventeenth-century Golden Age, including works by Rembrandt and Vermeer. No visit to Amsterdam would be complete without seeing the delightful Van Gogh Museum, home to many of his famous works as well as those of other Impressionists and Post-Impressionists.
*tickets for the Anne Frank House sell out very quickly and are subject to availability. Guides are not allowed to accompany you into the house itself, but will be waiting for you at the end of your visit (approx. 45-90 mins)
Highlights:
- Visit Anne Frank's House
- Explore the Van Gogh Museum
Tour Duration: 8 Hours
Tour Can Operate: Morning/ Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Private transport by luxury car or minivan
- An expert local guide for 8 hours
- Entrance fees to all sights and museums
- All taxes
Exclusions:
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
-
Amsterdam: The Three Sisters, Delft & Den Haag - 8 Hours
You are met at Amsterdam port for a full-day excursion outside of the city. Head south into the countryside for a photo opportunity at the impressive Three Sisters Windmills in Stompwijk. As over a third of the Netherlands lies below sea level, windmills were initially designed to pump vast amount of water out, thus protecting land from flooding. Today, these silent giants draw many visitors every year for their charming appearances.
From here, you travel on to Delft, world-renowned for its famous blue and white pottery and one of the most beautiful towns in the Netherlands. Take in the town’s architectural gems and charming ambience, which are best appreciated by walking along its small canals with their graceful humpbacked bridges.
Following this, enjoy a privately-guided tour at the Royal Delft Experience, where a painter shares the passion behind the production of this stunning 17th-century earthenware during a special demonstration.
After lunch at leisure, you continue to the Hague, the home of the Dutch Royal Family and the administrative capital of the Netherlands; walk the Inner court past the Government buildings and take the opportunity for a photo stop at the International Court of Justice. You may like to visit the Mauritshuis Museum, which holds one of the world's finest collections of paintings, including Rembrandt, Steen, Hals, Rubens and Van Dyck, or you may choose to visit the Panorama Mesdag, which hosts the Panorama, one of the largest canvas paintings in the world (subject to opening times).
On your return journey, stop at Scheveningen beach for some spectacular views before continuing back. (8 hours, driver and guide)
Highlights:
- Witness the majestic windmills known as the Three Sisters
- Delve into Delft's artistic heritage
Tour Duration: 8 Hours
Tour Can Operate: Morning/ Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Private transport by luxury car or minivan
- An expert local guide for 8 hours
- Entrance fees to all sights and museums
- All taxes
Exclusions:
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
|
12/27/2024 |
12/27/2024 |
Amsterdam
Amsterdam 12/28/2024
Bid farewell to Amsterdam and prepare for your flight home. (B),
Optional Private Excursions
Avoid the crowds and hustle and bustle associated with a group activity. For a memorable trip ashore, we invite you to consider a private shore excursion. Enjoy the undivided attention of your own driver/guide and the flexibility of experiencing the aspects of the local culture that most interest you. Below are just some samples of the private shore excursions we can arrange for you. Let us personalize your experience!
-
Amsterdam: An Introduction to Amsterdam – 4 hours
Meet your driver at the Port in Amsterdam for a private transfer to the city centre where your guide is waiting to meet you for a walking tour of this beautiful city. Begin at Dam Square, bordered by the Royal Palace and enjoy wonderful views of the canals and gabled houses of the mercantile quarter before visiting the house in which Anne Frank wrote her celebrated diary during the last war*. After your tour, transfer in the comfort of your own private vehicle back to your ship.
*tickets for the Anne Frank House sell out very quickly and are subject to availability. Guides are not allowed to accompany you into the house itself, but will be waiting for you at the end of your visit (approx. 45-90 mins)
Highlights:
Tour Duration: 4 Hours
Tour Can Operate: Morning/ Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Private transport by luxury car or minivan
- An expert local guide for 4 hours
- Entrance fees to all sights and museums
- All taxes
Exclusions:
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
-
Amsterdam: Highlights of Amsterdam - 8 Hours
Spend the day exploring Amsterdam in the hands of your expert guide. You are met at the port and transferred to Dam Square where your morning’s walking tour includes the notable Royal Palace. Admire the views of the canals and the gabled houses of the Canal Ring district, where you will visit the house in which Anne Frank wrote her celebrated diary during the last war*.
After lunch explore the beautifully-restored Rijksmuseum, to admire the stunning collection of masterpieces from the seventeenth-century Golden Age, including works by Rembrandt and Vermeer. No visit to Amsterdam would be complete without seeing the delightful Van Gogh Museum, home to many of his famous works as well as those of other Impressionists and Post-Impressionists.
*tickets for the Anne Frank House sell out very quickly and are subject to availability. Guides are not allowed to accompany you into the house itself, but will be waiting for you at the end of your visit (approx. 45-90 mins)
Highlights:
- Visit Anne Frank's House
- Explore the Van Gogh Museum
Tour Duration: 8 Hours
Tour Can Operate: Morning/ Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Private transport by luxury car or minivan
- An expert local guide for 8 hours
- Entrance fees to all sights and museums
- All taxes
Exclusions:
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
-
Amsterdam: The Three Sisters, Delft & Den Haag - 8 Hours
You are met at Amsterdam port for a full-day excursion outside of the city. Head south into the countryside for a photo opportunity at the impressive Three Sisters Windmills in Stompwijk. As over a third of the Netherlands lies below sea level, windmills were initially designed to pump vast amount of water out, thus protecting land from flooding. Today, these silent giants draw many visitors every year for their charming appearances.
From here, you travel on to Delft, world-renowned for its famous blue and white pottery and one of the most beautiful towns in the Netherlands. Take in the town’s architectural gems and charming ambience, which are best appreciated by walking along its small canals with their graceful humpbacked bridges.
Following this, enjoy a privately-guided tour at the Royal Delft Experience, where a painter shares the passion behind the production of this stunning 17th-century earthenware during a special demonstration.
After lunch at leisure, you continue to the Hague, the home of the Dutch Royal Family and the administrative capital of the Netherlands; walk the Inner court past the Government buildings and take the opportunity for a photo stop at the International Court of Justice. You may like to visit the Mauritshuis Museum, which holds one of the world's finest collections of paintings, including Rembrandt, Steen, Hals, Rubens and Van Dyck, or you may choose to visit the Panorama Mesdag, which hosts the Panorama, one of the largest canvas paintings in the world (subject to opening times).
On your return journey, stop at Scheveningen beach for some spectacular views before continuing back. (8 hours, driver and guide)
Highlights:
- Witness the majestic windmills known as the Three Sisters
- Delve into Delft's artistic heritage
Tour Duration: 8 Hours
Tour Can Operate: Morning/ Afternoon
Wheelchair Accessible: Please enquire for more information
Physical Activity Level: Light
Inclusions:
- Private transport by luxury car or minivan
- An expert local guide for 8 hours
- Entrance fees to all sights and museums
- All taxes
Exclusions:
- All cruise travel, personal items, meals and associated costs
- Gratuities
|
12/28/2024 |
12/28/2024 |
The Signature Collection – Exclusive Amenities
