Day 1: Amsterdam, Netherlands

Arrive in Amsterdam, the lively Dutch capital known for its charming canals, historic architecture, and rich cultural heritage. After boarding your luxurious river cruise ship, settle into your stateroom before enjoying a welcome dinner onboard. Depending on your arrival time, explore the city’s highlights, such as the Anne Frank House, Rijksmuseum, or take a scenic canal cruise to experience Amsterdam’s iconic waterways.

Day 2: Amsterdam, Netherlands

Spend another full day discovering Amsterdam’s many treasures. Explore the colorful Bloemenmarkt (floating flower market), visit the Van Gogh Museum, or wander through the trendy Jordaan district, known for its art galleries and boutique shops. Alternatively, take an excursion to the charming Dutch countryside to see the iconic windmills of Zaanse Schans and the picturesque fishing villages of Volendam and Marken.

Day 3: Düsseldorf, Germany

Sail into Düsseldorf, a dynamic city blending modern sophistication with historic charm. Visit the Altstadt (Old Town), famous for its cozy beer halls and breweries serving the city’s signature Altbier. Walk along the Rheinuferpromenade, a scenic riverside boulevard lined with cafés, or explore the upscale shopping street Königsallee, home to luxury boutiques and designer stores.

Day 4: Rhine Gorge & Rüdesheim, Germany

Cruise through the breathtaking Rhine Gorge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring medieval castles, dramatic cliffs, and the legendary Lorelei Rock. Arrive in Rüdesheim, a charming wine town, where you can stroll along the lively Drosselgasse, lined with traditional taverns and live music. Enjoy a wine tasting of the region’s famous Riesling wines or visit Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet, a unique museum featuring antique self-playing instruments.

Day 5: Ludwigshafen & Heidelberg, Germany

Dock in Ludwigshafen, a gateway to some of Germany’s most famous cultural sites. Take an excursion to Heidelberg, home to the impressive Heidelberg Castle, which overlooks the scenic Neckar River. Walk along the charming Old Bridge, explore the historic Philosopher’s Walk, or visit the prestigious Heidelberg University, Germany’s oldest. Alternatively, explore Speyer, a town known for its UNESCO-listed Romanesque Cathedral and fascinating medieval history.

Day 6: Strasbourg, France

Cross into France to explore the enchanting city of Strasbourg, the capital of Alsace. Walk through the historic La Petite France district, with its half-timbered houses and scenic canals. Visit the magnificent Strasbourg Cathedral, famous for its astronomical clock and breathtaking Gothic architecture. Enjoy a taste of Alsatian cuisine, featuring specialties like tarte flambée and choucroute.

Day 7: Breisach, Germany & Black Forest

Arrive in Breisach, a picturesque town on the German-French border, surrounded by rolling vineyards. From here, embark on an excursion into the Black Forest, a region of dense woodlands, cuckoo clocks, and fairy-tale villages. Visit the spa town of Baden-Baden, explore the charming town of Colmar, or take a scenic drive along the Schwarzwaldhochstraße (Black Forest High Road).

Day 8: Basel, Switzerland

Your cruise concludes in Basel, a cultural hub at the meeting point of Switzerland, France, and Germany. Disembark after breakfast and explore Basel’s charming Old Town, visit the impressive Basel Minster, or explore renowned museums like the Kunstmuseum Basel and Fondation Beyeler. From here, either extend your stay in Switzerland or transfer to the airport for your journey home.