Rhine & Moselle Splendours

Overview

Expand your imagination in fairytale villagesenchanting Cochem where folklore and history come alive in every street, and in well-preserved Bernkastel with its medieval Market Square and half-timbered houses. Whimsical fantasies abound at Siegfrieds Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum and at the Palace Gardens of Schwetzingen, a cultural heritage site of European significance with more than 100 sculptures scattered throughout its surprising landscape. Blend German heritage with Italian in Trier, with its Roman Imperial Baths and the Porta Nigra; and with French heritage in Strasbourg, and you have the most splendid journey.

Itinerary

Day 1 – Luxembourg

Board the ship for your Rhine & Moselle Splendors cruise. (D)

Day 2 – Trier & Bernkastel

Trier, Germanys oldest city, has often been referred to as the second Rome. Be guided to the Roman Imperial Baths, the Porta Nigra and Emperor Constantines Throne Room. Or hike to Petrisberg Hill, where youll take in a spectacular view of the city and its glorious spires. During the afternoon, sail to Bernkastel, strategically located in the middle of the Moselle Valleys wine-producing region. Walk through the colorful Old Town center and past many medieval buildings before enjoying a wine tasting at a local winery. For those who prefer to be more active, trek up to the ruins of Landshut Castle, which dates all the way back to the 9th century. (B,L,D)

Day 3 – Cochem, Moselle Valley & Lahnstein

History comes to life in Cochem with its half-timbered houses and Reichsburg Castle. Join a guided tour through the castle, and then walk through its Old Town. For those wishing to have a more active exploration of the area, you can go on a guided hike to the castle. Or for a different adventure, explore the Bundesbank Bunker to get a closer look at this mysterious Cold War-era bank vault. Later in the day, sail along the Moselle, taking in the fascinating scenery before arriving in Lahnstein where youll enjoy a visit to Lahneck Castle. (B,L,D)

Day 4 – Rhine Gorge & Rudesheim

Cruise through the captivating UNESCO-designated Rhine Gorge, the most stunningly beautiful stretch of the river, before reaching the winemaking town of Rdesheim. Drink up the stunning views by soaring high above the vineyards with a gondola ride to the Niederwalddenkmal Statue, and afterwards be treated to a wine tasting. For a more active adventure, hike through the towns beautiful vineyards or join a guided bike tour along the scenic Rhine River to Schloss Johannisberg. Later in the day, let Siegfrieds Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum charm you or taste one of the towns special delights, Rdesheimer coffee, ceremoniously made with brandy, coffee and whipped cream. (B,L,D)

Day 5 – Ludwigshafen

You have a choice of several excursions, depending on your interest. Visit Heidelberg, a perfectly preserved medieval city nestled in the Neckar River Valley along Germanys Castle Road. Alternatively, relive a bygone era on an excursion to the glorious Schwetzingen Palace and Gardens. Tour this splendid palace and wander through its gardens with more than 100 sculptures and an assortment of whimsical buildings. The Apollotempel houses a statue of the ancient Greek god of light and the arts, playing the lyre; and the most spectacular, the Trkischer Garten with a mosque, are a few of the many highlights you will see. For those seeking a more active adventure, hike the historic Philosophers Path along the Neckar River or join a guided bike tour along the Neckar River to the medieval town of Ladenburg. (B,L,D)

Day 6 – Strasbourg

Strasbourg, the capital city of Alsace, has flavors of both France and Germany which youll get to discover. Enjoy a panoramic bus tour past the stunning Parc de lOrangerie, the European Parliament and the Place de la Rpublique followed by a walking tour through its iconic La Petite France district, which appears to have been lifted straight from the pages of a fairytale. Youll also see the Cathdrale de Ntre Dame with its famous astronomical clock. The active adventurer can join a guided Old Town bike tour, which also takes you through the Parc de lOrangerie. (B,L,D)

Day 7 – Breisach & Basel

Breisach is your gateway to several different excursions, depending on your interests. Step back in time with a visit to the enchanting Alsatian town of Riquewihr, which looks almost the same as it did in the 16th century. On your walking tour, admire historic architecture as well as famous sights, such as the Dolder Gate. Alternatively, you may wish to go to Freiburg, founded in 1120 and home to the Freiburgs Mnster, a Gothic cathedral said to have the most beautiful spire on earth. You also have the choice to go on a hike in the Black Forest, a magical land full of cultural traditions; or cycle through the scenic countryside. (B,L,D)

*Please Note: Black forest hike is weather dependent and may only operate at certain times of year. Please refer to your final documents for details.

Day 8 – Basel

Bid farewell to Switzerland and prepare for your return flight home. (B)