Day 1: Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Board your ship and settle into your stateroom as you begin your journey in Amsterdam, a city renowned for its charming canals, elegant gabled houses, world-class museums, and bicycles. Explore the city's picturesque waterways, where 1,500 bridges connect 90 islands, and visit the Rijksmuseum to admire masterpieces by Rembrandt and other Dutch masters.
Day 2: Kinderdijk, The Netherlands
Visit the village of Kinderdijk, known for its 19 preserved 18th-century windmills, set amidst the reclaimed land of the South Holland region. Explore this iconic site, which evokes the legend of Hans Brinker, and see how these windmills helped shape the landscape over centuries.
Scenic Sailing: Waal & Merwede
Cruise along the serene waters of the Rhine River, passing through the Rhine–Meuse–Scheldt Delta. Marvel at the flat farmlands, iconic windmills, and vast fields of tulips and tomatoes as you sail through this scenic Dutch landscape.
Day 3: Cologne, Germany
Discover Cologne, a city steeped in Roman history and renowned for its 14th-century Gothic cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Explore its vibrant plazas, ancient ruins, and the awe-inspiring cathedral, whose stained glass windows cast beautiful light inside.
Day 4: Koblenz, Germany
Koblenz, a city with over 2,000 years of history, invites you to wander its cobblestone streets and admire medieval architecture. Visit the iconic German Corner and the Basilica of St. Castor, dating back to 836, while soaking in the charming riverside atmosphere.
Scenic Sailing: Middle Rhine
Cruise through the picturesque Middle Rhine, a UNESCO World Heritage site, passing steep vineyards, medieval castles, and the legendary Lorelei Rock, known for its myth of a mesmerising river maiden.
Day 5: Scenic Sailing: Main River, Spessart
Sail the scenic Main River, passing charming villages, rolling hills, and lush forests of the Spessart region. This area, with its fairy-tale ambiance, has inspired the stories of the Brothers Grimm.
Miltenberg, Germany
Explore Miltenberg, a quaint town with medieval timber-framed houses and the 13th-century Miltenberg Castle. The town's history as a vital trading hub along the Main River is reflected in its historical inns and buildings.
Day 6: Würzburg, Germany
In the baroque city of Würzburg, marvel at the grand Bishops' Residenz palace and its magnificent frescoes. Stroll along the Old Main Bridge and visit Marienberg Fortress, offering panoramic views of the surrounding vineyards.
Day 7: Bamberg, Germany
Bamberg, a UNESCO World Heritage city, retains its medieval charm with its baroque buildings and the stunning 11th-century Cathedral of Holy Roman Emperor Heinrich II. The city is also known for its unique rauchbier, a smoked beer.
Scenic Sailing: Main-Danube Canal, Germany**
Cruise along the Main-Danube Canal, a marvel of engineering that connects the Rhine and Danube rivers, allowing ships to travel across Europe, passing through 16 river locks.
Day 8: Nuremberg, Germany
Explore Nuremberg, a city of half-timbered houses and Gothic churches. Learn about its historical significance, from its role in World War II to the medieval city walls and landmarks like the Zeppelin Field and the Palace of Justice.
Day 9: Regensburg, Germany
Visit Regensburg, one of Europe's best-preserved medieval cities. See the 12th-century Old Stone Bridge and St. Peter's Cathedral, and explore the city's rich history, including its Jewish heritage and role in Nazi Germany.
Day 10: Passau, Germany
Discover Passau, the "City of Three Rivers," at the confluence of the Inn, Ilz, and Danube rivers. Visit the baroque St. Stephen’s Cathedral, home to one of Europe’s largest pipe organs, and stroll through the city’s historic streets.
Day 11: Melk, Austria
Explore the town of Melk, where the stunning Benedictine abbey stands high on a hill overlooking the Wachau Valley. Admire the abbey’s baroque architecture, beautiful frescoes, and priceless medieval manuscripts.
Scenic Sailing: Wachau Valley
Sail through Austria’s Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, known for its terraced vineyards, charming villages, and historic castle ruins, offering a breathtaking view of the Danube River.
Day 12: Vienna, Austria
Immerse yourself in Vienna, the “City of Waltzes,” where classical music and elegant architecture take centre stage. Visit landmarks like the Hofburg Palace and Vienna State Opera, and enjoy the city’s famous coffeehouses and Sachertorte.
Day 13: Vienna, Austria
Explore more of Vienna, from its world-renowned art museums to its street art murals. Experience the city’s rich coffeehouse culture, a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage, and savour a relaxing afternoon with a pastry and coffee.
Day 14: Budapest, Hungary
Arrive in Budapest, where the Danube River divides the city into the historic Buda and modern Pest. Stroll through art nouveau buildings, soak in thermal baths, and enjoy panoramic views from the Fisherman’s Bastion and Chain Bridge.
Day 15: Budapest, Hungary
Bid farewell to your fellow travellers and disembark in Budapest, or extend your stay to continue exploring this vibrant city.
