8-Day Rhine River Cruise — Tour Itinerary
What’s Included
- Luxury Cruise Accommodation — 7-night stay on a 5-star river cruise ship with all comforts and exceptional service.
- Meals Included — Breakfasts: 7, Lunches: 6, Dinners: 7 including a Captain’s Gala Dinner.
- Flights & Transfers — Round-trip international flights, airport transfers, and Eurostar option available.
- Excursions & Guided Tours — Expert-led walking tours in Koblenz, Mainz, Heidelberg, Strasbourg, Colmar, and Cologne.
- Onboard Activities — Relax on the Sun Deck, enjoy live music, wine tastings, and cultural insights.
- All Entrance Fees & Taxes — Admission to all scheduled attractions included.
- 24/7 English-Speaking Crew & Guides — Knowledgeable and attentive staff ensuring a seamless experience.
Itinerary Details
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Day 1 — Arrival in Cologne
- Fly to Düsseldorf or Cologne, or take the Eurostar from London to Brussels.
- Transfer to your luxury 5-star river cruise ship.
- Settle into your spacious cabin and explore the ship’s amenities.
- Enjoy a welcome dinner as you begin your Rhine adventure.
(Meals: D)
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Day 2 — Koblenz & Boppard
- Wake up to scenic views of the Rhine Valley as the ship arrives in Koblenz.
- Guided walking tour of Koblenz, a historic city at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers.
- Explore charming medieval streets, historic castles, and lively squares.
- Cruise to Boppard, known as the “Pearl of the Rhine,” with time to explore this picturesque town.
- Relax on board and enjoy gourmet cuisine.
(Meals: B, L, D)
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Day 3 — Rhine Gorge & Mainz
- Cruise through the spectacular Rhine Gorge, home to steep vineyard-covered hills and medieval castles.
- View Lorelei Rock, the legendary cliff where sirens were said to lure sailors to their doom.
- Explore Mainz, famous for its Gutenberg Museum, home to the first printed Bibles.
- Visit the stunning Romanesque Mainz Cathedral and enjoy free time in the charming Old Town.
(Meals: B, L, D)
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Day 4 — Heidelberg (Germany’s Romantic City)
- Journey to Heidelberg, one of Germany’s most beautiful cities.
- Guided walking tour of Heidelberg’s Old Town, including its iconic stone bridge.
- Explore Heidelberg Castle, with breathtaking views over the Neckar River.
- Free time to wander through historic streets and boutique shops.
(Meals: B, L, D)
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Day 5 — Strasbourg & Colmar (French Charm)
- Arrive in Strasbourg, the capital of Alsace, a fascinating mix of French and German influences.
- Guided walking tour of Strasbourg’s UNESCO-listed Old Town, including:
- Petite France Quarter — a fairytale setting of half-timbered houses and canals.
- Notre-Dame Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece.
- Scenic drive along Alsace’s Wine Route to Colmar, a picture-perfect medieval town.
- Enjoy time at leisure to explore Colmar’s pastel-coloured houses, canals, and historic squares.
(Meals: B, L, D)
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Day 6 — Rüdesheim (A Vibrant Rhine Town)
- Sail to Rüdesheim, a lively wine town known for its vineyards and charming Weinstuben (wine taverns).
- Visit Drosselgasse, a famous cobbled street lined with lively wine bars and cafes.
- Optional wine tasting experience in a traditional Rhine Valley vineyard.
- Captain’s Gala Dinner on board, featuring regional specialties from the Rhine.
(Meals: B, L, D)
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Day 7 — Cologne (Cathedral City Tour)
- Sail back through the Rhine Gorge, enjoying magnificent river views.
- Guided walking tour of Cologne, one of Germany’s oldest and most vibrant cities.
- Visit Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the largest Gothic churches in Europe.
- Explore Cologne’s Old Town, with free time for shopping or relaxing in a local beer hall.
- Final evening onboard, enjoying a farewell dinner.
(Meals: B, L, D)
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Day 8 — Return Home
- Say goodbye to your crew and fellow travellers.
- Transfer to the airport for your return flight or to Brussels for the Eurostar back to London.
(Meals: B)
Why Choose This Cruise?
- Cruise the Rhine in Luxury — Stay in a 5-star floating hotel, with gourmet dining and exceptional service.
- Explore Europe’s Most Beautiful Cities — Visit Cologne, Koblenz, Mainz, Heidelberg, Strasbourg, and Colmar.
- Witness the Rhine Gorge — Sail through the UNESCO-listed section, passing fairytale castles and vineyard-clad hills.
- Delight in Regional Cuisine — Enjoy local specialties, wine tastings, and a Captain’s Gala Dinner.
- Guided Tours & Cultural Experiences — Expert-led city tours, historic sites, and unique excursions.
- Relax and Unwind — Onboard entertainment, Sun Deck lounging, and optional spa treatments.
