11-Day Jewels of the Rhine River Cruise
August 22 – September 1, 2026
starting at $5,435 per person
FREE roundtrip airfare
Enjoy a cruise on the romantic Rhine River where UNESCO World Heritage sites, gothic cathedrals in Cologne and Strasbourg, historic fortresses, and picturesque canals greet you in the various ports of call. Sail through the scenic Rhine Gorge and experience the beauty and splendor of the Rhine. Along with the two-night stay in Lucerne, Switzerland, set against the dramatic Swiss Alps, you’ll have an amazing holiday on this adventure with Mayflower Cruises and Tours.
Itinerary
August 22 – Depart the USA
Depart the USA on your overnight flight to Zurich, Switzerland.
August 23 – Zurich to Lucerne
Upon arrival in Zurich, transfer to your hotel in Lucerne to begin your Swiss adventure. Flights should arrive by 3:00pm. The afternoon is at leisure to begin discovering your beautiful new surroundings. This evening, join your representative and traveling companions for an included dinner at the hotel.
Meals Included: Dinner
August 24 – Lucerne
After breakfast, an included walking tour highlights the city’s landmark, the famous 14th-century Chapel Bridge with its paintings of heroic town events, that crosses the Reuss River. See the 17th-century Renaissance Town Hall and town squares, all set amongst the beautiful backdrop of the Swiss Alps. The remainder of the day is at leisure.
Meals Included: Breakfast
August 25 – Lucerne/Huningue, France
Before departing for your ship in Huningue, the day is free to enjoy at leisure or join the morning optional excursion to Mt. Pilatus – a mountain overlooking Lucerne that offers a unique alpine experience! This afternoon, travel by motorcoach to Huningue, France for embarkation of your luxurious Emerald Cruises Star-Ship. This evening, join your fellow travelers for dinner onboard.
Meals Included: Breakfast | Dinner
August 26 – Breisach, Germany
As part of the EmeraldPLUS program, visit the city of Freiburg. Considered the ‘capital of the Black Forest’, Freiburg has lovely sights that will leave you amazed. You also have the opportunity to sample true Black Forest delicacies from the lively market in the city center near the main cathedral. If you’re feeling more active, join the guided bike tour in Breisach. Enjoy local entertainment onboard this evening.
Meals Included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
August 27 – Strasbourg, France
Arrive in Strasbourg, the capital city of the Alsace Region in France. The guided walking tour takes you along narrow lanes and across footbridges as you discover the Grande Île, the historical city center and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known for its medieval black and white timber-framed buildings, picturesque le Petite France, old tanning houses, canals and river locks, the city’s star attraction is the ornate cathedral, dominating the main square. This afternoon, the city is yours to explore at leisure.
Meals Included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
August 28 – Mannheim/Heidelberg, Germany
Relax onboard as the vessel cruises along the Rhine River to Mannheim, docking site for Heidelberg. Travel by coach to Heidelberg, home of the oldest university in Germany. The guided walking tour visits the ruins of Heidelberg Castle, with fantastic views overlooking the Neckar River, and takes you through the cobblestoned-streets of the medieval city below. Alternatively, hike from Mount Königstuhl to Heidelberg. Local entertainment is provided onboard this evening.
Meals Included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
August 29 – Koblenz
Begin the day sailing through the spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Rhine Gorge. Pass countless medieval castles and vineyards lining the shores of this section of the river, with photo opportunities around every bend. See the infamous Lorelei statue and Pfalzgrafenstein Castle, built on an island in the middle of the river as a medieval toll station. Continue cruising to the 2000-year-old town of Koblenz, situated at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers. Enjoy a walking tour through the streets of the city as your guide points out historic monuments and buildings. See the ‘German Corner’ monument marking the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers. This evening, attend a private concert as part of the EmeraldPLUS program.
Meals Included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
August 30 – Cologne/Düsseldorf
This morning, you’ll will arrive in Cologne and have the chance to know one of Germany’s oldest cities and get up close with the famous post card worthy Cathedral. After lunch, join a walking tour of Düsseldorf, a vibrant city renowned for its stylish boutiques and charming Old Town. Stroll along the picturesque Rhine River, admire the stunning architecture and discover hidden gems off-the-beaten path. Immerse yourself in the city’s lively atmosphere, indulge in the delicious local cuisine, and marvel at the contrast of Düsseldorf’s ancient and modern charms.
Meals Included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
August 31 – Amsterdam, the Netherlands
This morning, discover the charm of Alkmaar, a picturesque Dutch town just a short distance from Amsterdam. Explore its historic center, lined with charming canals and medieval buildings. Alkmaar is famous for its centuries-old cheese market where traditional cheesemakers showcase their craft and engage in lively auctions. Immerse yourself in the local culture in this typical charming town. Alternatively, embark on a bike tour through the Dutch countryside.
Meals Included: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
September 1 – Netherlands/USA
Bid ‘auf wiedersehen’ to Europe and return home with memories of life-enriching experiences from your European adventure and cruise along the Rhine River.
Meals Included: Breakfast
What’s Included
- 23 Meals: 9 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 8 dinners
- Airport transfers on tour dates when air is provided by Mayflower Cruises & Tours
- Visit four countries
- Two-night hotel stay and touring in Lucerne
- Seven-nights in a suite or stateroom of your choice onboard the vessel
- First-class service by an English-speaking crew
- Onboard Activity Manager will support all EmeraldACTIVE excursions and host daily onboard wellness activities, games, classes and evening entertainment
- All gratuities included
- Shore excursions with English-speaking local guides
- Personal listening device for shore excursions
- Visit UNESCO World Heritage Sites
- All meals included onboard with a variety of international cuisine
- Complimentary regional wines, beer and soft drinks with onboard lunches and dinners
- Complimentary bottled water in your stateroom
- Complimentary WiFi onboard
- Complimentary bicycles onboard for use ashore
- All port charges included
Accommodations
Days 2 and 3 – Hotel Europe or similar, Lucerne, Switzerland
Days 4 through 10 – Aboard an Emerald Cruises Star-Ship
sunshinejourneystravelclub.com 