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 city known for its medieval architecture and mountain landscapes.

We glide across beautiful blue Lake Lucerne on an afternoon cruise to Vitznau.

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

We return to Lucerne and experience 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

Start the day with a walking tour of Lucerne known for its covered wooden foot bridge decorated with interior paintings. Later we board the luxurious Amadeus Imperial. Once settled, enjoy a reception and dinner onboard the ship.

Day 4 : Strasbourg

Located on the French border with Germany, Strasbourg is a gorgeous city rich in historic architecture and other preserved pieces of local heritage for visitors to admire. Also the home of the European Parliament, Strasbourg’s historic city center, the Grande Île, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. We return to the ship for lunch. Relax on the sun deck or treat 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.

The ship arrives in Mannheim this afternoon. We take a short drive to Heidelberg, Germany’s oldest and most famous university town. Heidelberg is known for its Baroque narrow streets, picturesque red roof tiled houses, beautiful 18th-century bridges, and a 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 especially known for its Rieslings. 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 most 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

Discover the charming town of Cochem, known for its traditional half-timbered houses and medieval castle rebuilt in a fairytale style. As we stroll through the old town we sample regional wines and experience 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 riverbanks.

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, 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 numerous museums and art galleries.

Day 9 : Volendam & Edam

Have a fascinating guided tour of Amsterdam this morning.

Then enjoy an afternoon excursion in the charming fishing villages of Volendam and Edam.

Day 10 : Rijksmuseum

This morning is packed with the fine arts as we embark on a guided tour of the country’s largest museum, Rijksmuseum. Stroll the halls decorated with 16th and 17th-century art including works by Vermeer, Frans Hals, and Rembrandt. We also have a delightful cruise on Amsterdam's signature canals. Our accommodations are at a charming hotel just outside the city.

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 show signs of the villages that once dotted the land. Visit the museum, wander through the village, explore the working mills, and watch artisans make cheese, clogs, and other traditional crafts.

We celebrate our travels with a Holiday Vacations Farewell Dinner.

Day 12 : Return Home