Detailed Port Descriptions

Day 1-3 Amsterdam

Capital of the Netherlands, the magical Venice of the North is famous for its dazzling Golden Age of power and wealth during the 16th and 17th centuries. Today, it is a bustling wonderland of things to see and do. No visit is complete without a cruise along the intricate network of more than 62 miles (100 km) of canals and time with the Dutch masters at the renowned Rijksmuseum. Other highlights include the Royal Palace, Anne Frank House, lavish 17th-century canal homes, Heineken Beer Experience, and the infamous red-light district! Hotel:Mövenpick Hotel, Amsterdam (or similar)  Please confirm your flight arrives into Amsterdam by 12pm

Day 4 Utrecht

The city of Utrecht is an underappreciated whose ancient city center features structures dating back to the High Middle Ages. It has been the religious center of the Netherlands since the 8th century, and was the most important city in the Netherlands until the Dutch Golden Age, when it was surpassed by Amsterdam. Today, Utrecht is a city of lovely parks and canals, lively cafes, and remarkable historical buildings and museums. And no visit here is complete, of course, without the 465-step climb up the cathedral tower for incredible views over the city.

Day 5 Cologne

The electric atmosphere of 2,000-year-old Cologne is undeniable. Its strategic location on the Rhine quickly elevated the city as a vital trade center that grew into a hub of industry by the 19th century. Even plagues and wars couldn't damper Cologne's tenacious spirit. During WWII, nearly 90% of the city center was destroyed, but a massive rebuilding effort restored much of its cultural heritage, including its famous Gothic cathedral. Highlights include the four preserved gates in the city wall, and Kölsch—the beer that’s been brewed here since the 17th century!

Day 6 Rüdesheim

Rüdesheim, with its historic buildings, winding streets and surrounding vineyards, is a popular destination. The town’s history dates back to the Roman era, and over the centuries, it has been influenced by various cultures and traditions. One of the highlights of Rüdesheim is its wine culture. The town is home to some of the finest vineyards in Germany, and is particularly famous for its Riesling wine, which is made from grapes grown on the steep slopes of the nearby hills. A popular attraction is the Rüdesheim Cable Car, which offers breathtaking views. The cable car route is 1.4 kilometers long and takes visitors from the town center up to the Niederwald Monument, a 38-meter tall monument that commemorates the unification of Germany in 1871. Don’t miss a taste of the famous Rüdesheimer Kaffee, a specialty coffee drink that is made with Asbach Uralt, a type of German brandy, and topped with whipped cream.

Day 7 Mannheim

Situated where the Rhine and Neckar Rivers meet is Mannheim, nicknamed the Square City for its grid layout (unusual in Germany) and the City of Inventions—birthplace of the automobile, bicycle, tractor, and more. Mannheim Palace, whose facade stretches the length of more than four football fields (437 yards/400 meters) is truly impressive, and is the second-largest Baroque palace after Versailles. Other highlights include the landmark water tower, Old Town Hall, St. Sebastian Parish, Mannheim Port, and more!

Day 7 Speyer

Situated on the left bank of the Rhine, just 13 miles southwest of Heidelberg, Speyer was founded by the Romans and is one of Germany's oldest cities. At the heart of the city is its thousand-year-old cathedral, the largest preserved Romanesque cathedral in the world and a milestone in architectural history. It was here in the crypt that many German emperors and kings found their final resting place. The Baroque Rathaus (Town Hall) is also noteworthy, as well as the interactive Technik Museum with its spectacular land, air, water, and space exhibits.

Day 8 Strasbourg

If your travel Bucket List doesn't include Strasbourg, it should! From the stunning gardens of Parc de l'Orangerie to the European Quarter, there's something to see in every direction. This is where the EU Parliament, Council of Europe, and other international institutions are based, and where the Grande Île, the Old Town island framed by two river arms, leaves an unforgettable impression. The pink sandstone cathedral with its famous astronomical clock and canal-lined Petite France district are the very definition of Old World European magic.

Day 9 Breisach

Situated right on the border with France, Breisach is surrounded by the beautiful hills of the Black Forest, a region of Germany known for its hand-crafted cuckoo clocks, woodcarvings, and blown glass. Breisach also sits in the heart of the Baden wine region and is home to one of Europe's largest wine cellars. Town highlights include the 13th-century St. Stephan's Cathedral, one of the finest examples of medieval architecture in the region.

Day 10 Basel/Huningue

There's a point where Switzerland, Germany, and France meet—that point is the Swiss city of Basel. By the Middle Ages, Basel was a center of culture and commerce, and by the 15th century, it was an epicenter for the printing industry. In fact, it was here that the world's first printed book was published. Today, Basel is known for its pharmaceutical industry, exciting art scene, impressive 13th-century Gothic cathedral, and its annual Carnival celebrations that attract visitors from around the world each February.