Emerald Cruises
Rhine Castles & Moselle Vineyards with Amsterdam
A classic journey on the Rhine, Main, and Danube rivers promises spectacular landscapes, rich culture, and fascinating history, where world-class cities are complemented by romantic towns.
Explore a landscape of sun-drenched vineyards, magnificent castles, and quaint villages along the Rhine & Moselle rivers. Begin in the serenity of Switzerland in Basel, travel to the Alsatian capital of Strasbourg. Traverse the wonderful countryside, stopping in Koblenz, where the Rhine and Moselle meet. You will then continue to the Netherlands with a tour of the quintessentially Dutch cities of Amsterdam and Utrecht with a visit to the traditional Kinderdijk windmills.
| Day 1 |
Basel is the global center of the pharmaceutical industry, but most travelers visit for the world-famous ART Basel festival, as well as the numerous art galleries, iconic architecture and museums. |
| Day 2 |
This quaint town on the Rhine is the gateway to the Black Forest and lies halfway between Freiburg and Colmar. As you walk the cobblestone streets, stop to sample local schnapps made from fermented pears or cherries and the distinctive smoky ham of this region. St. Stephan's Cathedral perches on a hillside and is the exquisite centerpiece of the town. |
| Day 3 |
Originating as a tiny fishing village in 1038, modern Kehl has become an important link between Germany and France. Rhine River cruises most often use Kehl as their gateway to the much larger and better-known Strasbourg. The savvy traveler, though, might choose to skip the jaunt across the river and enjoy many similar sights, shopping and cuisine as those offered in the teeming French city. |
| Day 4 |
A charming city nestled on the banks of the Rhine, Mainz, Germany lies southwest of Frankfurt and is replete with historic buildings and famous museums. The city's Altstadt district meets the river's edge and boasts a variety of beautiful and fascinating landmarks. Birthplace of famous printer Johannes Gutenberg, Mainz's most notable attraction includes the highly-revered Gutenberg Museum, home to the iconic Gutenberg Bibles and the printing press of Gutenberg's own invention. The city's other museums are well worth a visit, including the Natural History Museum of Mainz, the Museum of Ancient Seafaring, and the Mainzer Fastnachtsmuseum. Marvel at the vibrant stained glass windows of nearby St. Stephan's Church, or explore the Mainz's impressive fortresses, including the Holzturm Tower and the Mainz Citadel. A quick trek up the city's verdant hills will lead you to the ruins of an ancient Roman theatre. |
| Day 5 |
This city in the Rhine Gorge is known for its winemaking, dramatic landscapes and 15-minute cable car ride to the Niederwald Monument (celebrating the German victory over France in 1871). Don't miss the Bavarian buildings and Siegfried's Mechanical Music Cabinet, which houses automated musical instruments. Wine lovers will also appreciate the Rheingau Wine Museum, where the exhibits focus on the craft of winemaking through the ages. |
| Day 6 |
Timbered homes and winemaking are some of the defining characteristics of Bernkastel-Kues. |
| Day 7 |
Along the banks of the Moselle River, Cochem is a charming village known for Reichsburg castle as well as its old town, with its half-timbered houses. |
| Day 8 |
This 2,000-year-old city, where the Teutonic Order founded one of its first commanderies in the 13th century, lies on the convergence of the Moselle and Rhine Rivers. Hop on a cable car, one of the city's most popular attractions, for stunning city-wide views, or cruise down the Rhine to spot some of Koblenz's magnificent fortresses and castles, including the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress and Schloss Stolzenfels. Stroll the cobbled streets from the Deutsches Eck statue to the city center, and you'll likely pass by a variety of historic buildings and monuments. |
| Day 9 |
Nijmegen, the oldest city in the Netherlands, sits along the banks of the Waal River. With roots dating back over 2,000 years, this lively university city is known for its Roman heritage, vibrant festivals, and welcoming atmosphere. One of Nijmegen’s most notable historical sites is the Valkhof Park, where remnants of a Roman military camp and a medieval castle still stand. The Valkhof Museum showcases archaeological finds from the Roman era, offering insight into the city's long and fascinating past. Walking through the old town reveals well-preserved historic buildings alongside shops and cafés. Visitors can enjoy the scenic landscapes surrounding Nijmegen, including the Ooijpolder nature reserve. Cycling and walking paths offer views of the Dutch countryside, while river cruises on the Waal provide a relaxing way to take in the region’s beauty. Local dining features a mix of traditional Dutch flavors and international cuisine. The city is also famous for hosting the International Four Days Marches, the world’s largest multi-day walking event. Every July, thousands of participants from around the world come to Nijmegen to take part in the event, creating an electric atmosphere filled with celebrations, live music, and festivities. |
| Day 10 |
Situated at the confluence of the rivers Merwede and Noord, Dordrecht is one of the Netherlands' oldest cities, rich in history and character from its charming medieval center and picturesque canals to its beautiful historic buildings. One of the city's most notable landmarks is the Grote Kerk, a stunning Gothic church that dates back to the 11th century where visitors can climb its tower and take in a breathtaking view of the city and the surrounding waterways. With its intricate network of canals and waterways, the city once played a key role in the Dutch Golden Age and as an important center for trade and commerce. This legacy is still visible today in the Dordrecht Museum, which houses an impressive collection of fine art spanning over 400 years, with works by famous Dutch artists such as Albert Cuyp and Aelbert Jacobsz. For those who appreciate the great outdoors, Dordrecht's Biesbosch National Park is one of the largest national parks in the Netherlands. A haven for wildlife and a popular spot for hiking and birdwatching, this park also offers opportunities for canoeing and boat tours through a unique labyrinth of rivers and creeks. Closer to the city center, Park Merwestein also provides a tranquil escape with its lush greenery, serene ponds, and historic statues. |
| Day 11 |
Amsterdam, the 17th century capital of Holland, is often called the "Venice of the North" due to its numerous, boat-navigable canals. Truly rich in history, the oldest part of this populous, multicultural city is Sloten, which dates all the way back to the 9th century.
Apart from the canals, attractions in Amsterdam include the Van Gogh Museum, Hermitage Amsterdam, the Heineken Experience, the Anne Frank House, and the Royal Palace of Amsterdam. Nightlife abounds as well, with many visitors drawn to its vibrant network of nightclubs, theaters and festivals. Starting in 2014, the city has undergone an urban renewal effort, focused on expanding the city center and involving the construction of artificial islands. This is a one-of-a-kind city that begs to be explored by bicycle or boat tour! |
| Day 12 |
Amsterdam, the 17th century capital of Holland, is often called the "Venice of the North" due to its numerous, boat-navigable canals. Truly rich in history, the oldest part of this populous, multicultural city is Sloten, which dates all the way back to the 9th century.
Apart from the canals, attractions in Amsterdam include the Van Gogh Museum, Hermitage Amsterdam, the Heineken Experience, the Anne Frank House, and the Royal Palace of Amsterdam. Nightlife abounds as well, with many visitors drawn to its vibrant network of nightclubs, theaters and festivals. Starting in 2014, the city has undergone an urban renewal effort, focused on expanding the city center and involving the construction of artificial islands. This is a one-of-a-kind city that begs to be explored by bicycle or boat tour! |
| Day 13 |
Amsterdam, the 17th century capital of Holland, is often called the "Venice of the North" due to its numerous, boat-navigable canals. Truly rich in history, the oldest part of this populous, multicultural city is Sloten, which dates all the way back to the 9th century.
Apart from the canals, attractions in Amsterdam include the Van Gogh Museum, Hermitage Amsterdam, the Heineken Experience, the Anne Frank House, and the Royal Palace of Amsterdam. Nightlife abounds as well, with many visitors drawn to its vibrant network of nightclubs, theaters and festivals. Starting in 2014, the city has undergone an urban renewal effort, focused on expanding the city center and involving the construction of artificial islands. This is a one-of-a-kind city that begs to be explored by bicycle or boat tour! |
| Travel Dates | Price | ||
|---|---|---|---|
|
06/10/26 - 06/22/26 |
Starting At $6,361 |
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|
06/10/26 - 06/22/26 |
Starting At $6,905 |
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|
09/22/26 - 10/04/26 |
Starting At $6,905 |
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|
09/22/26 - 10/04/26 |
Starting At $7,156 |
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All our holidays are subject to availability. The prices shown are correct at the time of going to print – with all prices and upgrades per person for twin share (excluding ES Single Stateroom) in US$. Please call for details on single supplements (there is no supplement for ES Single Stateroom). The deposit required is $500 per person, with full payment required 90 days prior to departure. Itineraries, inclusions and ships operating a particular cruise are subject to change.