Amsterdam to Zurich (or reverse) - 12 days |
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Detailed Itinerary: Amsterdam to Zurich
Day 1: Arrive in Amsterdam, Holland - Embarkation
Arrive in charming Amsterdam and embark your luxurious river cruise ship. Meet your fellow travelers tonight at the Welcome Dinner. (D)
Day 2: Amsterdam
After breakfast, your tour of Amsterdam begins with a scenic canal cruise through the city known as the “Venice of the North.” See the beautiful homes that line the water, the fabled Skinny Bridge, and the famous Anne Frank House. Then, enjoy a panoramic city tour, where you will see the great landmarks of Amsterdam including a photo stop at a Windmill. Afterwards, enjoy some free time to explore Amsterdam before returning to the ship. (B,L,D)
Day 3: Düsseldorf – Cologne, Germany
Arrive in Düsseldorf this morning and take a motor coach to Venlo, where you will have the unique opportunity to visit the Floriade World Horticultural Expo. Bringing together more than 100 exhibitors from dozens of countries, the Floriade Expo grounds will feature five themed zones connected by wooded areas. Each of the zones contains its own horticultural exhibits, cultural attractions, activities, restaurants, music, dance and theatrical performances. Rejoin the ship for lunch, which is now docked in Cologne. Enjoy a guided walking tour through the old part of the city and a visit to the fabled 13th-century gothic cathedral. As an alternative to a walking tour, take a guided bike tour (capacity controlled). Late tonight, the ship sails to Rüdesheim. (B,L,D)
Day 4: Rüdesheim
This morning, sail through the fascinating Rhine Gorge, passing castle after castle and the infamous Lorelei Rock. This afternoon, arrive in Rüdesheim, where you will enjoy an afternoon wine tasting with a local vintner. Explore the Drosselgasse, a narrow alley lined with wine taverns and restaurants during your free time. This evening, visit the historic Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum, housing a remarkable collection of robotic and self-playing musical instruments from the 18th to 20th centuries. (B,L,D)
Day 5:Speyer - Heidelberg
This afternoon, arrive in Speyer, one of Germany’s oldest cities, known for the Speyer Cathedral, many churches and the Altpörtel (old gate) with a 13th-century gate tower. Choose either a city tour of medieval Speyer or half day excursion to Heidelberg, where you will visit the red-walled Castle, with its Great Vat, a 49,000-gallon 18th-century wine cask, and beautiful views of the Neckar Valley and Heidelberg below. As an alternative, a guided bike tour is also available in Speyer (capacity controlled). Late this afternoon, the ship sails to Strasbourg, France. (B,L,D)
Day 6: Strasbourg, France
Capital and principal city of the Alsace region in northeastern France, Strasbourg is situated on the Ill River, where it flows into the Rhine on the border with Germany. Enjoy a canal cruise of this picturesque town, known for its black and white timber-framed buildings, covered bridges and medieval watchtowers. Then take a walking tour through this charming town lined with narrow cobbled streets. See the European Parliament and visit the “La Petite France” district, where you will see the sandstone gothic cathedral with its famous astronomical clock. The remainder of the day is at your leisure. In the afternoon, a guided bicycle tour (capacity controlled) will take you past the Orangery, the town’s oldest park, the European Parliament, and Place de la Republique. The ship moors overnight. (B,L,D)
Day 7: Breisach - Colmar, France
Today, choose between a city tour of Colmar or a tour through the famous Black Forest region of Germany. On the Black Forest tour, enjoy your drive through a scenic forested area where you will encounter a number of lakes as well as charming examples of rural architecture. Your tour will include a stop at a cuckoo clock factory. As an alternative, choose to travel to medieval Colmar, situated along the Alsatian Wine Route and the self-proclaimed “Capital of Alsatian Wine.” During your city tour, you will see remarkable half-timbered framed houses; the German influenced old quarter filled with streets of unexpected twists and turns; canals and the Launch River. You will also enjoy a wine cellar visit and wine tasting, where you will enjoy several different wines, presented along with bread, knowledgeable hosts, and plenty of laughter. Late tonight, the ship set sails for Basel, Switzerland. (B,L,D)
Day 8: Basel, Switzerland (Disembarkation) - Lucerne
Disembark after breakfast for a city tour of cosmopolitan Basel. Long an important university, banking and trade center, Basel’s glorious past is still evident in its medieval Town Hall and exquisite 18th-century patrician homes. After free time for lunch on your own, depart for Lucerne. You will visit the Lion Monument en route and arrive mid-afternoon to check in to the hotel. (B)
Day 9: Lucerne
Situated on Lake Lucerne, the city is a medieval gem. After breakfast, enjoy a walking tour that will explore some of the city’s famous cobblestone streets, monuments, fountain-embellished public squares, covered bridges and colorful frescoed buildings. The afternoon offers free time to shop for watches, knives and world-famous chocolates. Or, you can join the optional tour and cable car ride (seasonal) to the top of Mount Pilatus, the mountain which dominates the city. Then return trip from the mountain on the engineering marvel, the world’s steepest cogwheel railway. (B)
Day 10: Lucerne - Zurich
Enjoy a free morning in Lucerne before checking out of your hotel. Afterwards, you will cruise across the tranquil waters of Lake Lucerne to Vitznau. Upon arrival in Vitznau, you will board a motor coach for a scenic drive to Zurich, where you will check into the hotel and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. (B)
Day 11: Zurich
Your morning walking tour of picturesque Zurich will include Grossmünster, St.Peter, with the largest church clock face in the world, Old Town, Town Hall and Fraumünster, which was fully renovated in 2004 and now offers an exceptional 360° panoramic view of Zurich. The afternoon and evening are free for you to explore the town on your own. (B)
Day 12: Depart Zurich
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your return flight home. (B)
*****
Day 1: Arrive in Zurich, Switzerland
Arrive in Zurich and transfer to your hotel. Spend your day exploring this beautiful town. (B)
Day 2: Zurich
Your morning walking tour of picturesque Zurich will include Grossmünster, St.Peter, with the largest church clock face in the world, Old Town, Town Hall and Fraumünster, which was fully renovated in 2004 and now offers an exceptional 360° panoramic view of Zurich. The afternoon and evening are free for you to explore the town on your own. (B)
Day 3: Zurich - Lucerne
After a free morning in Zurich, check out of the hotel. Depart for a scenic drive around the Lakes before reaching Lucerne. Upon arrival, enjoy a cruise across the tranquil waters of Lake Lucerne, surrounded by spectacular mountain scenery. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy as you wish. (B)
Day 5: Lucerne
Situated on Lake Lucerne, the city is a medieval gem. After breakfast, enjoy a walking tour that will explore some of the city’s famous cobblestone streets, monuments, fountain-embellished public squares, covered bridges and colorful frescoed buildings. The afternoon offers free time to shop for watches, knives and world-famous chocolates. Or, you can join the optional tour and cable car ride (seasonal) to the top of Mount Pilatus, the mountain which dominates the city. Then return trip from the mountain on the engineering marvel, the world’s steepest cogwheel railway. (B)
Day 6: Lucerne - Basel (Embarkation)
This morning, depart from Lucerne, visiting the Lion Monument en route to Basel. Arrive in Basel for a city tour before embarking your luxurious river cruise ship. Switzerland’s second largest city is ideally located at the crossroads of Switzerland, France and Germany. Long an important university, banking and trade center, Basel’s glorious past is still evident in its medieval Town Hall and exquisite 18th- century patrician homes. Tonight, gather on board for a Welcome Dinner. (B,D)
Day 7: Breisach - Colmar, France
Today, choose between a city tour of Colmar or a tour through the famous Black Forest region of Germany. On the Black Forest tour, enjoy your drive through a scenic forested area where you will encounter a number of lakes as well as charming examples of rural architecture. Your tour will include a stop at a cuckoo clock factory. As an alternative, choose to travel to medieval Colmar, situated along the Alsatian Wine Route and the self-proclaimed “Capital of Alsatian Wine.” During your city tour, you will see remarkable half-timbered framed houses; the German influenced old quarter filled with streets of unexpected twists and turns; canals and the Launch River. You will also enjoy a wine cellar visit and wine tasting, where you will enjoy several different wines, presented along with bread, knowledgeable hosts, and plenty of laughter. (B,L,D)
Day 8: Strasbourg, France - Speyer, Germany
Capital and principal city of the Alsace region in northeastern France, Strasbourg is situated on the Ill River, where it flows into the Rhine on the border with Germany. Enjoy a canal cruise of this picturesque town, known for its black and white timber-framed buildings, covered bridges and medieval watchtowers. Then take a walking tour through this charming town lined with narrow cobbled streets. See the European Parliament and visit the “La Petite France” district, where you will see the sandstone Gothic Cathedral with its famous astronomical clock. The remainder of the day is at your leisure. In the afternoon, a guided bicycle tour (capacity controlled) will take you past the Orangery, the town’s oldest park, the European Parliament, and Place de la Republique. (B,L,D)
Day 9: Speyer - Heidelberg, Germany
This afternoon, arrive in Speyer, one of Germany’s oldest cities, known for the Speyer Cathedral, many churches and the Altpörtel (old gate) with a 13th-century gate tower. Choose either a city tour of medieval Speyer or half day excursion to Heidelberg, where you will visit the red-walled Castle, with its Great Vat, a 49,000-gallon 18th-century wine cask, and beautiful views of the Neckar Valley and Heidelberg below. As an alternative, a guided bike tour is also available in Speyer (capacity controlled). (B,L,D)
Day 10: Rüdesheim – Koblenz
After breakfast, arrive in Rüdesheim and visit Siegfried's Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum. This historic museum houses one of the greatest collections of robotic and self-playing musical instruments from the 18th to 20th centuries. Afterwards, enjoy a wine tasting at a local winery. Explore the Drosselgasse, a narrow alley lined with wine taverns and restaurants during your free time. This afternoon, you will cruise to 2,000-year-old Koblenz, located on the confluence of the Rhine and Mosel rivers. After dinner, your Cruise Manager will lead a walk through this charming town. (B,L,D)
Day 11: Cologne - Krefeld
Arrive in Cologne this morning, where you will enjoy a walking tour of Old Town and Cathedral Square. You will visit the spectacular 13th-century Gothic cathedral whose twin spires are amongst the tallest in Europe. Afterwards, you will have free time to linger in the cathedral, browse the many nearby shops or perhaps enjoy a glass of Kölsch, Cologne’s famous beer. Return to the ship for lunch. Late this afternoon, take a motor coach to Venlo, where you will have the unique opportunity to visit the Floriade World Horticultural Expo. Bringing together more than 100 exhibitors from dozens of countries, the Floriade Expo grounds will feature five themed zones connected by wooded areas. Each of the zones contains its own horticultural exhibits, cultural attractions, activities, restaurant, music, dance and theatrical performances. Return to the ship this evening, now docked in Krefeld. (B,L,D)
Day 12: Amsterdam, Holland
After breakfast, your tour of Amsterdam begins with a scenic canal cruise through the city known as the “Venice of the North.” See the beautiful homes that line the water, the fabled Skinny Bridge, and the famous Anne Frank House. Then, enjoy a panoramic city tour, where you will see the great landmarks of Amsterdam including a photo stop at a windmill. Afterwards, enjoy some free time to explore Amsterdam before returning to the ship. (B,L,D)
Day 13: Amsterdam (Disembarkation)
Bid Farewell to Amsterdam and transfer to the airport for your homeward flight. (B)
Please Note:
- Valid passports are required for travel. Please check visa requirements with your local consulate(s); responsibility for obtaining visas rests with the traveler.
- To accommodate the Floriade Expo taking place from early April through mid-October 2012, some excursions may be substituted.
- Guided bicycle tours are capacity crontolled.

2012 Departures |
Program Start Date |
Cabin Rates are per passenger in $USD |
|
Lower Deck - Cat E w/window |
Lower Deck - Cat D w/window |
Middle Deck - Cat C w/ french balcony |
Middle Deck - Cat B w/ french balcony |
Upper Deck - Cat A w/ french balcony
|
Upper Deck - Suite w/ french balcony |
From Amsterdam |
26-Apr-12 (sold out) |
$3,839 |
$4,038 |
$4,418 |
$4,618 |
$4,728 |
$5,738 |
10-May-12 (sold out) |
$3,939 |
$4,138 |
$4,518 |
$4,718 |
$4,828 |
$5,838 |
21-Jun-12 |
$3,839 |
$4,038 |
$4,418 |
$4,618 |
$4,728 |
$5,738 |
5-Jul-12 (sold out) |
$3,839 |
$4,038 |
$4,418 |
$4,618 |
$4,728 |
$5,738 |
30-Aug-12 |
$4,039 |
$4,238 |
$4,618 |
$4,818 |
$4,928 |
$5,938 |
13-Sep-12 (sold out) |
$4,039 |
$4,238 |
$4,618 |
$4,818 |
$4,928 |
$5,938 |
27-Sep-12 |
$4,039 |
$4,238 |
$4,618 |
$4,818 |
$4,928 |
$5,938 |
11-Oct-12** |
$3,839 |
$4,038 |
$4,418 |
$4,618 |
$4,728 |
$5,738 |
25-Oct-12**
|
$3,639 |
$3,838 |
$4,218 |
$4,418 |
$4,528 |
$5,538 |
8-Nov-12† |
$3,439 |
$3,638 |
$4,018 |
$4,218 |
$4,328 |
$5,338 |
From Zurich |
1-Apr-12 (sold out) |
$3,339 |
$3,538 |
$3,918 |
$4,118 |
$4,228 |
$5,238 |
15-Apr-12 (sold out) |
$3,639 |
$3,838 |
$4,218 |
$4,418 |
|
$5,538 |
29-Apr-12 (sold out) |
$3,839 |
$4,038 |
$4,418 |
$4,618 |
$4,728 |
$5,738 |
27-May-12 (sold out) |
$3,939 |
$4,138 |
$4,518 |
$4,718 |
$4,828 |
$5,838 |
24-Jun-12 (sold out) |
$3,839 |
$4,038 |
$4,418 |
$4,618 |
$4,728 |
$5,738 |
14-Oct-12** |
$3,739 |
$3,938 |
$4,318 |
$4,518 |
$4,628 |
$5,638 |
28-Oct-12** |
$3,439 |
$3,638 |
$4,018 |
$4,218 |
$4,328 |
$5,338 |
11-Nov-12† |
$3,439 |
$3,638 |
$4,018 |
$4,218 |
$4,328 |
$5,338 |
** Floriade Expo not available; itinerary slightly modified. |
† "In Celebration of Wine" cruise. |
| Port Charges are an additional $147 per passenger // Single Supplement: 50% of twin, suite 100% of twin, $520 for land |
For 7 night cruise only (no Lucerne/Zurich) Subtract $1040 from above per person rates. |
| Transfers are available for purchase. Please call for details. |
Please select bedding configuration at the time of booking. The choices are: Choice A - Two twin beds; Choice B - One large bed (larger than queen size) |
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