Discover the Rhine & Rhone Rivers with Emerald Cruises

As soon as you touch down in Amsterdam, you’ll be warmly greeted at the airport and whisked away to your state-of-the-art Emerald Cruises Star-Ship. You’ll receive a warm welcome from your friendly captain and crew as you step aboard, ready to start the first part of your unforgettable journey along the Rhine river.

Every narrow street and gabled façade in Amsterdam tells a tale of the Dutch Golden Age, a prosperous time when Dutch art was among the most acclaimed in the world. Today you get to explore different aspects of this beautiful city, with two different excursion options. You can relax during a glass-top canal boat tour through Amsterdam’s elaborate UNESCO World Heritage-listed canal system, sailing through the city’s medieval centre and past Roman patrician houses. Or, alternatively, embark on a guided bike tour to Waterland, passing quintessential villages, traditional windmills and flower fields.

This afternoon, you’ll set sail through the countryside and towards the Rhine River, perhaps enjoying a drink on the Sun Deck and watching the passing scenery before joining your Captain for a Gala Dinner in the evening.

Included excursion: Canal Cruise
EmeraldACTIVE: Guided bike tour to Waterland

Cologne is one of the oldest cities in Germany, rich in history and ancient stories that have been passed down through generations. With a timeline that dates back over two thousand years, the city is a treasure trove of historic landmarks and cultural heritage. During your guided city tour, you will be immersed in the charm of Cologne’s Old Town as you explore its vibrant streets and iconic landmarks.

Included excursion: Guided tour of Cologne’s Old Town

Arriving in Koblenz is like stepping into a fairytale, with picturesque views of the surrounding vineyards and mountains. Your guided walking tour of this historic Roman town will showcase the charming twin-towered Church of Our Lady, the majestic meeting point of the Rhine and Moselle rivers at the German Corner, and the impressive Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, one of Europe’s largest preserved fortresses. This afternoon, you’ll cruise through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge, where romantic castles perch atop lush canyons and medieval villages seem frozen in time.

Included excursion: Orientation walk of Koblenz & a visit to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress
DiscoverMORE: Moselle Valley & Cochem Castle visit (extra expense)

This morning, you will have the opportunity to explore the picturesque city of Heidelberg. As a UNESCO City of Literature, Heidelberg has stimulated the creative minds of Mark Twain and renowned British artist William Turner. A guided tour of the town will unveil its fascinating history, beginning at the Renaissance ruins of Heidelberg Castle. The beautifully-manicured gardens surrounding the castle feature tranquil water features, intricate sculptures, and vibrant flowerbeds. In the evening, the EmeraldPLUS program invites you to attend a captivating private concert.

Included excursion: Guided tour of Heidelberg
EmeraldACTIVE: Active hike from Mount Königstuhl to Heidelberg
EmeraldPLUS: Private evening concert on the Rhine

This morning, you will dock in Kehl and be transferred by coach to the beautiful town of Strasbourg. Here, you can step back in time and explore a medieval past, wandering through cobbled squares lined with charming half-timbered houses. Your guided walking tour of Strasbourg’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town will showcase the city’s most iconic sights. From the astrological signs on the Maison Kammerzell to the picturesque scenery of Petite France, you’ll immerse yourself in the history and beauty of this enchanting town. After the tour, you’ll have free time to wander and discover more of Strasbourg at your own pace. Enjoy exploring the streets, shops, and cafes as you soak up the unique atmosphere of this historic gem.

Included excursion: Guided tour of Strasbourg

Today, as part of the EmeraldPLUS program, you will have the opportunity to explore the beautiful city of Freiburg. Known as the ‘Capital of the Black Forest’, Freiburg boasts stunning sights that are sure to impress. During your visit, you will also get to savour authentic Black Forest delicacies. For those looking for a bit of adventure, a canoeing trip on the Rhine is also an option.

EmeraldPLUS: Guided tour of Freiburg with tasting
EmeraldACTIVE: Guided bike tour in Breisach

After breakfast, you will disembark your Star-Ship and board a coach transfer to Lyon, where you will join Emerald Liberté for another seven-night cruise along the Rhône and into Arles.

Chalon-sur-Saône, renowned for its rich art and history, and today, you will have the chance to explore the area’s stunning architectural heritage and serene surroundings as you journey to the charming village of Beaune and pay a visit to the Hospices de Beaune. Formerly a hospital for the poor, the Hospices de Beaune now hosts one of Burgundy’s most beloved wine auctions.

Included excursion: Visit to the Hospices de Beaune
EmeraldPLUS: Cheese and olive tasting on board

Lyon, France’s third-largest city, is a former Roman capital with a rich history and is known as the gastronomic heart of the country. So, today is the perfect opportunity to indulge in traditional Lyonnaise cuisine and savour a variety of delicious culinary delights. You will also have the opportunity to go on a guided city tour, which includes a visit to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Basilica Notre-Dame de Fourvière, a significant part of Lyon’s historic architecture. Stroll through the city and absorb its colourful history, with buildings representing different time periods lining the charming cobblestone streets. For a different perspective, opt for a guided bike tour of Lyon to explore the city’s highlights on two wheels.

Included excursion: Guided tour of Lyon
EmeraldACTIVE: Guided bike tour of Lyon
DiscoverMORE: Excursion to Pérouges (extra expense)
DiscoverMORE: Private Culinary Charms of Lyon (extra expense)

Immerse yourself in the beauty and heritage of Lyon, where every corner tells a story waiting to be discovered.

Explore the charming village of Tournon, nestled along the serene Rhône River and overlooked by a majestic 16th-century castle. Admire the village’s iconic landmarks, including ancient watchtowers that add to its picturesque charm. Join a guided tour to discover Tournon’s rich cultural heritage and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere. Or, opt for an EmeraldACTIVE hike through the nearby vineyards and marvel at the endless rows of grapes used to produce some of Europe’s finest wines.

Included excursion: Guided tour of Tournon
EmeraldACTIVE: Guided hike through the vineyards

Experience the charm of Viviers, a town steeped in medieval flair and boasting one of France’s oldest cathedrals. Your guided walking tour will showcase the city’s impressive monuments, adorned with intricate windows and grand facades.

Included excursion: Guided tours of Viviers
DiscoverMORE: Visit to Chauvet Pont D’Arc (extra expense)

Avignon has a rich history, from Celtic beginnings to being the residence of seven successive Popes between 1309 and 1377. The city also played a major part central to the French Revolution. Today is your opportunity to discover it all on your included walking tour that will take you past the ornate beauty of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Palais des Papes, as well as Pont d’Avignon, an ancient stone bridge crossing the Rhône. In the evening you will enjoy the unique experience of a classical concert in Avignon.

Included excursion: Guided tour of Avignon
EmeraldACTIVE: Canoeing excursion in Avignon
EmeraldPLUS: Classical concert in Avignon
DiscoverMORE: Guided tour of the Pont du Gard (extra expense)
DiscoverMORE: Visit to Chateauneuf du Pape with wine tasting (extra expense)

The past is yours to uncover in Arles, a former Phoenician trading port that the Romans conquered and subsequently left behind iconic monuments that showcase the city’s evolution over the centuries. Explore the 2,000-year-old Arles Amphitheatre and walk in the footsteps of the renowned artist Vincent van Gogh. Take your time to wander and make sure to visit a local café for a quintessential experience before returning to relax on your Star-Ship. In the evening, savour a delightful Provencal dining experience prepared by France’s Top Chef finalist, Fabien Morreale. Enjoy the journey and immerse yourself in the beauty of Arles.

Included excursion: Guided tours of Arles with an arena visit
EmeraldPLUS: Provencal dinner hosted by local chef Faiben Morreale
DiscoverMORE: Excursion to Les Baux de Provence (extra expense)
DiscoverMORE: Visit to L’Occitane Factory (extra expense)

After breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to your fellow guests and disembark your Star-Ship. Your fare includes a transfer to the airport in Nice, giving you one last opportunity to enjoy the idyllic French countryside. Want to extend your European journey? Ask your Cruise Travel Advisor for more information on hotels, tours and airfares.