Rhine River Cruise - Switzerland to Amsterdam

Day 1 : Overnight Flight to Europe

Our journey begins with an overnight flight to Switzerland.

Day 2 : Mount Rigi

We fly into Zurich and transfer to Lucerne, a delightful city well known for its medieval architecture and mountain landscapes.

We’ll glide across cobalt-blue Lake Lucerne on an afternoon boat cruise to Vitznau.

Once there, board a special cogwheel train to transport us up Mount Rigi. Breathtaking panoramic views of the Swiss Mittelland greet us when reaching Rigi Kulm, the highest point.

We 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.

Next, we check-in to our Lucerne-area hotel.

Enjoy getting to know your fellow travelers at a Holiday Vacations Welcome dinner.

Day 3 : Lucerne

Begin with an orientation tour of Lucerne, known for its covered wooden foot bridge decorated with interior paintings.

Delight in traditional Swiss music and entertainment at the Stadtkeller Folklore Restaurant.

Later, board the luxurious Amadeus Silver III.

Once settled in, enjoy a reception and wonderful dinner onboard the ship.

Day 4 : Strasbourg

Located on the French 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. Strasbourg’s historic city centre, the Grande Île is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We return to the ship for lunch. Then, relax on the Sun Deck or pamper yourself to a massage while we sail to Germany.

Day 5 : Speyer & Heidelberg

We dock in the handsome town of Speyer. The Speyer Cathedral dominates this city’s setting with its grand structure and beauty.

Later, the ship arrives in Mannheim this afternoon and take a short drive to Heidelberg, 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 half-ruined castle.

This evening, enjoy the Captain’s Gala dinner.

Day 6 : Middle Rhine

In the morning visit Rudesheim, located in the heart of the Reingau wine region, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and especially known for its superior Rieslings. We’ll be amazed at Siegfried’s Mechanical Cabinet, boasting a large collection of historic self-playing instruments spanning three centuries.

Next, head to the top deck as our vessel cruises 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.

Later in the day we arrive at Koblenz, one of the oldest and diverse cities in Germany, located at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers. The architecture of churches, castles and palaces tell of times gone by as we explore the area.

Day 7 : Moselle River & Cochem

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’ll sample regional wines and experience the area’s gracious hospitality.

Cruise the Moselle River on an excursion to visit one of Germany’s most beautiful river valleys. View vineyards covering the rolling hillsides, castles, and ruins dotting the hilltops above villages and towns along the river banks.

Day 8 : Cologne

Today’s port of call is 2,000-year-old Cologne. This cultural hub is a landmark of High Gothic architecture, starting with the extraordinary cathedral, whose twin spires dominate the skyline. After the bombing of Cologne during World War II, the city was rebuilt and has become a major area boasting numerous museums and art galleries.

Day 9 : IJsselmeer Cruise

Today we cruise Holland’s largest lake, IJsselmeer Lake. The lake is fed by several rivers including the Rhine.

Next we enjoy an interesting guided tour of Amsterdam. Afterwards, take an excursion to the Hoorn area which includes time in charming Volendam, an area known for its vintage fishing boats.

Day 10 : Amsterdam

This morning we disembark our ship and enjoy a guided tour of the country’s largest museum, The Rijksmuseum. Stroll the halls packed with 16th and 17th century art including works by Vermeer, Frans Hals, and Rembrandt.

Our accommodations for the evening are at a charming hotel just outside of Amsterdam.

Day 11 : Zaanse Schans & Haarlem

Step back in time at Zaanse Schans, an open-air museum that brings Dutch heritage to life. Traditional buildings and restored windmills demonstrate the villages that once dotted the land. Visit the museum, wander the village, explore the working mills, and watch artisans make cheese, clogs, and other traditional crafts.

This evening, enjoy an included Holiday Vacations Farewell Dinner.

Day 12 : Return Home

We fly home with lifelong memories of our incredible European getaway.