Day 1 : Overnight Flight to Europe

Our journey begins with an overnight flight to Amsterdam.

Day 2 : Amsterdam

We arrive in Amsterdam and meet our European guide and driver. Step back in time at Zaanse Schans, an open-air museum that brings Dutch heritage to life. Traditional buildings and restored windmills are reminiscent of the villages that once dotted the land.

Day 3 : Rijksmuseum

Begin the day with a guided walking tour of Amsterdam. Visit the country’s largest museum, The Rijksmuseum. Stroll the halls filled with 16th and 17th-century art including works by Vermeer, Frans Hals, and Rembrandt. Explore Bloemenmarkt, Amsterdam’s one-of-a-kind floating flower market. View the city of canals from the water aboard a narrated canal boat ride as Amsterdam is best seen from the water. Later, we board the luxurious Amadeus Cara. Once settled, enjoy a wonderful reception and dinner onboard the ship.

Day 4 : Volendam, Edam

We drive through the Dutch Polder landscape to the old fishing village of Volendam. Stroll through the old village and see people still dressed in traditional costumes. En route to the ship, we visit the quaint village of Edam, famous for its cheese. We see the cheese weighing house and the Dam with its 18th-century town hall.

Day 5 : Cologne

Today’s port of call is 2,000-year-old Cologne. This cultural hub is a landmark of High Gothic architecture, beginning with the extraordinary cathedral, its twin spires dominating the skyline. After the bombing of Cologne during World War II, the city was rebuilt and has become a major area boasting multiple museums and art galleries. While in Cologne, enjoy a walking tour and taste of the famous beer called Kölsch.

Day 6 : Moselle River & Cochem

Cruise the Moselle River to visit one of Germany’s most beautiful river valleys. View vineyards covering the rolling hillsides and castles dotting the hilltops along the river banks. Explore the charming town of Cochem, noted for its traditional half-timbered houses and medieval castle rebuilt in a fairytale style. As we stroll through the old town we stop to sample regional wines and experience the area’s gracious hospitality.

Day 7 : Middle Rhine

In the morning, enjoy a walking tour of Koblenz, one of the oldest and most diverse cities in Germany, located at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers. The architecture of churches, castles and palaces tell stories of times-gone-by as we explore the area. Later in the day we head to the top deck as we cruise the scenic Middle Rhine through the Rhine Gorge. As the Rhine carves its way through steep hills there is always at least one castle in sight. Watch for The Lorelei in the narrowest gorge on the Rhine. Our port of call, Rudesheim, is located in the heart of the Rheingau wine region, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known especially for its Rieslings. Here we have a walking tour including a stop at the music museum which features one of Europe’s biggest collections of mechanical musical instruments.

Day 8 : Heidelberg

We dock in Mannheim this morning and take a short drive to Heidelberg, for a walking tour of Germany’s oldest and most famous university town. Heidelberg is also known for its Baroque old town narrow streets, picturesque red roof tiled houses, beautiful 18th-century bridge, and breathtaking red-sandstone ruins of Heidelberg Castle. Later, the ship departs for the handsome town of Speyer. On a walking tour, discover the Speyer Cathedral as it dominates the city’s setting with its grand structure and beauty. This evening, enjoy the Captain’s Gala dinner.

Day 9 : Strasbourg

Located on France’s border with Germany, Strasbourg is a gorgeous city rich in architectural and historical heritage for visitors to admire. It is also the home of the European Parliament. While on a walking tour of the city, discover the Grande Île, Strasbourg’s historic city center, and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy a canal boat ride that showcases the charming houses with colored, half-timbered walls and narrow alleyways. Later, relax on the ship’s Sun Deck or pamper yourself with a massage while we sail to Basel.

Day 10 : Disembark for Lucerne

This morning we disembark the ship in Basel for a short drive to Lucerne. Enjoy an included lunch with music and a folklore show at the cozy country Stadtkeller restaurant. Embark on a walking tour of this gorgeous city known for its covered wooden foot bridge decorated with interior paintings. After checking in to the hotel for a two-night stay, the afternoon and evening are free to explore this delightful town.

Day 11 : Mount Rigi

Today experience Mount Rigi! First glide across vividly blue Lake Lucerne on a cruise to Vitznau. Here we disembark and board a special cogwheel train to transport us up the mountain. Breathtaking panoramic views of the Swiss Mittelland greet us when reaching Rigi Kulm, the highest point. We descend the mountain by aerial cable car to return to Lucerne and explore the Swiss Chocolate Adventure. This multimedia journey introduces us to the origin, manufacturing, and transport of our favorite Swiss confection. This evening, enjoy an included Holiday Vacations Farewell Dinner.

Day 12 : Fly Home