Grand Cruise of the Rhine Gorge, Medieval Germany & Switzerland - MS George Eliot

Arrive in Basel - On arrival, transfer to your ship moored in Basel. The dedicated English-speaking crew will welcome you aboard your first-class floating hotel, ensuring you settle into your luxurious, well-equipped cabin and familiarise yourself with the ship.

Lucerne & Bernese Oberland - Today you have the choice between a full day excursion to Lucerne and the Bernese Oberland, or a more leisurely guided tour of Lucerne and free afternoon in Basel.LucerneTo make the most of the day we depart early and take the short drive to Lucerne, often considered Switzerland’s most beautiful city, spectacularly situated among stunning mountain views.It has been attracting well-heeled visitors for two centuries, including our very own Queen Victoria. Highly recommended is an invigorating stroll along the Chapel Bridge, a unique covered wooden walkway crossing the lake, supported by stilts and lined with colourful flower-filled window boxes. Not only is it the city’s most iconic structure, it’s a superb way to absorb Lucerne’s regal atmosphere, before we continue our exploration of the best of Switzerland.Bernese OberlandAs you enter the Bernese Oberland in central Switzerland, the views become quite literally breath-taking! This is the grand alpine heart of Europe with some of the finest mountain scenery on earth, described by the composer Mendelssohn as ‘the most wonderful of all in this unbelievably beautiful country’.On viewing the legendary snow-capped peaks of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau you’ll be quite simply awestruck. We then ascend by mountain railway for more extraordinary vistas, with the crystal-clear lakes reflecting the meadows and forests below. This truly magical landscape is sure to enchant you.Later we’ll descend again by mountain railway before returning to the ship. Please note, temperatures will be significantly lower at altitude, even during the summer months, so it’s advisable to pack suitable clothing. Lunch is not included on this full day excursion; however, the ship will offer a packed lunch.If you chose a more leisurely start to the day, we drive to Lucerne.  LucerneEnjoy a more comprehensive excursion in Lucerne, with a guided tour of the city. Then spend time at leisure wandering its medieval streets before returning to the ship for lunch.BaselThis afternoon you can choose to stay on board or hop on our shuttle bus to Basel for time to explore independently. With a mix of historic and modern architecture, Basel seamlessly blends tradition and innovation. While you're here, head to the old town to explore its narrow winding streets. At its heart, you'll find the magnificent cathedral with its red sandstone walls, colourful roof tiles, and twin towers. Or you could immerse yourself in the city's remarkable museums and countless galleries, celebrating its rich tradition of art collecting. 

Breisach & Black Forest or Alsace Wine route - This morning's cruising is spent gliding through the dramatic scenery of the rift valley separating the Vosges and Black Forest mountains.We arrive at the ancient town of Breisach, whose historic heart is surrounded by stone ramparts and dominated by the impressive Saint Stephan’s Cathedral, which you can see during time at leisure before lunch onboard.This afternoon you have a choice of touring the Black Forest and Freiburg or visiting the Alsace wine route with its typical wine villages. We drive through some of Central Europe’s most stunning scenery – the Black Forest Mountains. This is a fabled landscape of rugged valleys, white-water rivers, cascading waterfalls and rolling hillsides covered with huge, densely packed pine trees – exactly as you expect it to be.Look out for the Baroque spires of St. Peter Abbey as we drive through the quaint village and stop for a photo of the incredible countryside surrounding St Märgen, on our way to Freiburg. On arrival, we'll follow a local guide around some of the city's sights - including the Münsterplatz and the historic Kaufhaus - before time at leisure to explore independently.Travelling, between the vineyards and mountains, along the Wine Route we make our way to Ribeauvillé - a charming village that lies in the shadow of the majestic ruins of the Three Castles of the Lords of Ribeaupierre. After a short walking tour, there's time to wander its picturesque streets to admire the 15th- to 18th-century buildings and Renaissance squares.Leaving Ribeauvillé, we head next to Riquewihr. Named the 'Most Beautiful Village in France', this medieval town lies right in the heart of the Alsatian vineyards. Famous for both its architecture and its wine, there's plenty to see during our walking tour. There's a little free time to explore before heading back to the ship.As the sun sets and the riverside lights begin to twinkle, enjoy the views through the restaurant’s panoramic windows during tonight's excellent dinner. Afterwards retire to the lounge to enjoy tonight's live performance of popular music spanning the years by a highly talented violin soloist, before we slip our moorings to commence our cruise towards Strasbourg.

Strasbourg  - This morning, we have arrived in France and Strasbourg, capital of the Alsace region. After breakfast we enjoy a walking tour of its picturesque 16th-century old town – a maze of narrow streets and canals lined with timber-framed houses and sculptured portals.Unforgettable sights include the stupendous Gothic Notre-Dame Cathedral, multi-towered Ponts Couverts – covered bridges – and the pretty Petite France quarter of pastel-coloured former artisans’ houses lining the canals. Don’t be surprised if you’re tempted to linger a while in a typical Alsatian café to sample some of the region’s world-famous wines – a crisp Riesling or that particular speciality of Alsace, spicy Gewürztraminer.During lunch, our elegant vessel glides away from our mooring as we commence an afternoon’s scenic cruising. Head up to the sun deck and take in the views from the comfort of a sun lounger or retire to the shady comfort of the lounge to chat over a coffee with newly made friends.As evening falls, thoughts turn to what might be on the menu tonight, so head to the relaxed ambience of the ship’s restaurant as the chef presents another delicious meal. Retire to the bar as we arrive in Speyer later tonight.Personalise your holiday -Land train tour of StrasbourgPrice: from €8ppDuration: 30-40 minsHop on the Little Train and discover the charming narrow streets of Strasbourg's old town, the romantic 'Petite France', the many quays and covered bridges and the famous Cathedral Square.Optional excursions can be done after or instead of the guided walking tour.This excursion can be arranged with your Cruise Concierge on board and is payable locally. Personalise your holiday -Take a cruise tour of StrasbourgPrice: from €15.70ppDuration: 1hr 10minsDiscover Strasbourg from a unique perspective - the water! As it flows through the centre of the city, you'll explore three of Strasbourg's 15 districts. Along the way, you'll spot the UNESCO-protect Grande Île, the imperial district of Neustadt, the European Parliament and more.Optional excursions can be done after or instead of the guided walking tour.This excursion can be arranged with your Cruise Concierge on board and is payable locally. 

Speyer - We remain moored in Speyer this morning to enjoy a guided tour of this delightful medieval gem, founded by the Celts and one of Germany’s oldest cities, celebrated for its illustrious past.The breath-taking Imperial Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is among the largest Romanesque churches in the world and also one of the finest. The beautiful four-roomed crypt, with its striking marble floors and pastel-coloured pillars, is the resting place of many Holy Roman emperors and German kings.Another landmark is the magnificent neo-Gothic Gedächtniskirche, built to commemorate the 1529 ‘Protestation at Speyer’, a significant event when a group of Martin Luther’s followers protested his imperial ban. Henceforth, Luther’s religious followers were known as Protestants.Returning on board for lunch, we commence our cruise once again, so sit back and watch the idyllic scenery slipping past through the panoramic windows: rolling hills and fertile vineyards, home to the Liebfraumilch wines of the region, oxbow lakes, long deserted by the river flow and now havens for bird and wildlife.This evening there’s a truly memorable occasion – the ‘Chef’s Dinner’, when the chef prepares his superb ‘signature’ dishes for you to enjoy in the splendid surroundings of the ship’s restaurant, featuring delicious specialities of the countries and regions we visit during our cruise. During dinner our vessel arrives in the classic Rhine wine village of Rüdesheim, so you might fancy wandering ashore to enjoy a digestif – perhaps a glass of Asbach, the famous brandy distilled locally.Personalise your holiday -Visit to the Technik MuseumDuration: At leisurePrice: £23Discover technology from the underwater world to space. Ever wonder what the inside of a submarine looks like? Or how big a jumbo jet is? From aircraft to vintage crafts, fire engines to mechanical instruments, there's plenty to inspire and amaze!Included in your entrance is a ticket to the IMAX theatre where the gigantic screen shows fascinating movies detailing incredible technological feats and natural wonders.Optional excursion can be done after or instead of the walking tour of Speyer.Please contact us at least two weeks before you’re set to depart to add the above experience to your booking before departure.

Rüdesheim & Rhine Gorge - Rüdesheim is a delight to wander, witness the bustling marketplace, the half-timbered Klunkhardshof and Brömserburg Castle, which dates from 1275. This afternoon you are free to explore at leisure or choose form one of our included experiences:You could visit Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet, a fantastical adventure into the world of automatic musical instruments. See the impressive collection of fascinating musical instruments that function like computers, ranging from tiny, delicate music boxes to an enormous orchestrion.Or you might choose to travel up the hillside, above Rüdesheim's famous vineyards, in a two-seater cable car enjoying lovely views of the Rhine River and surrounding countryside. At the top the views get even better, and a stroll around the Niederwald monument – which celebrates the unification of Germany by Prussians in the 1870s - allows for a peaceful moment looking out over the town.This afternoon we witness a real highlight of the cruise, the dramatic Rhine Gorge: steep vineyards give way to almost vertical rocky outcrops, towering above the sweeping valley sides. Sailing past Saint Goar and the many ruined castles, you get a real sense of the myths of this historic river coming alive around you. No legend is more famous than that surrounding the Loreley Rock, where beautiful nymphs distracted hapless sailors, luring them to their deaths in the treacherous waters.Relax on the sun deck as our captain skilfully navigates the ship through the huge looping bend at Boppard – one of the most impressive on the river. Keep an eye out for the mighty Marksburg Castle too, an impressive fortress dating back to the 13th century.It’s not long before we arrive in picturesque Koblenz and another meticulously prepared dinner awaits on board. Afterwards, delight in the upbeat sounds of Rhenish folk music with a live performance of traditional instruments.Personalise your holiday -Wine tasting at a local wineryDuration: 1hr 30 minsPrice: £22Before we sit down to another delicious dinner onboard our five-star ship, visit a winery in Rüdesheim to taste the local wine. In the atmospheric backdrop of a historic wine cave, enjoy sampling the varieties this region is famous for, including Riesling, Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris, and learn interesting facts about the viticulture and the history of wine in the area.Please note: Due to the location of the wine tasting, it's advised all guests bring a jacket.Optional excursion can be done during free time in Rüdesheim.Please contact us at least two weeks before you’re set to depart to add the above experience to your booking before departure. Minimum numbers apply.

Koblenz - Founded by the Romans, this historic city is beautifully located at the confluence of the Rhine and its sister river the Moselle. Discover Koblenz’s maze of medieval buildings in the Altstadt – old town – which is studded with a fine array of traditional shops and classic Rhineland cafés.On our guided tour of this delightful town, historic buildings appear seemingly at every turn: see the former mint, the Four Towers with their ornamental 17th-century turrets and several fascinating squares and churches, including the 9th-century Basilica of Saint Kastor. The waterfront along the Moselle is stunning too, with the medieval Balduin Bridge, staggeringly still in use.If you manage to resist the tempting cakes on offer from the beckoning pavement cafés, then you’ll be ready for lunch as we leave Koblenz behind.Enjoy a leisurely afternoon on board as we drift through this lovely Rhineland scenery, past quaint riverside towns with pretty waterfronts and carefully tended vineyards. See the famous ruined bridge at Remagen, which was captured intact by the Allies towards the end of the Second World War, allowing thousands of troops to cross into Germany’s heartland, and the forested Siebengebirge - Seven Mountains – a cluster of ancient volcanic hills that inspired many of the Brothers Grimm’s legends, including Snow White.During dinner this evening, reflect on the spectacular sights seen and wonderful places visited whilst travelling with us on this magical cruise as we arrive at our final destination, Cologne.Personalise your holiday -Cable car ride to Ehrenbreitstein fortress and visitDuration: At leisurePrice: £19.00Take a scenic cable car over the Rhine River to the impressive Ehrenbreitstein fortress, which stands 118 meters tall on its riverbanks. Built by the Prussians to fend off the French, it's the second-largest preserved fortress in Europe, with an unparalleled view of Koblenz and the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers. Here, you can explore the castle's 1000-year history at leisure before returning to Koblenz by cable car.Optional excursion can be done during free time or instead of the walking tour of Koblenz.Please contact us at least two weeks before you’re set to depart to add the above experience to your booking before departure.

Cologne - After a lazy breakfast there’ll be the opportunity to recharge and reset today with time to yourself to get further acquainted with this beautifully grand and historic city. Your tick list might include a wander round the Sculpture Park or indulging your sweet tooth at the famous Chocolate Museum. Take a ride on the city’s cable car as you soar over the Rhine with dazzling views of the city and beyond. Or perhaps while away a few peaceful hours in the Museum Ludwig pondering the colourful canvases in its modern art collections then head to the Flora Botanic Hardens to lose yourself in the vibrant blooms and exotic plants. Don’t forget to stop for some refreshment with a glass or two of craft beer in the quirky Belgian Quarter too, with its cool bars and laid-back feel.  

Later return to the ship and relax on board (you’ll be in the swing of things by now!) before the chef wows us once again with another exquisitely presented menu.  

Cologne - Today will be packed with discovery as you disembark after breakfast for a guided walking tour through Cologne. The cathedral's spires dominate the maze of cobbled streets as we wander the old town with our guide who’ll weave tales that bring the city's past to life.  

Enter inside the walls of the Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece and the largest Gothic church in Northern Europe. A miraculous survivor of Second World War bombing and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it took and incredible six centuries to complete this masterpiece. Among its many treasures are the stained-glass windows and gilded sarcophagus rumoured to hold the remains of the three kings from the Nativity story. Explore the vibrant and meticulously restored old town, where an abundance of shopping opportunities beckon - as well as plenty of bars, inviting you to try the local brew! 
After some free time, return to the ship to enjoy lunch and relax on board as our journey continues. As we leave Cologne’s imposing skyline behind, head up onto the sun deck; whether you choose to lose yourself in a good book or cool off in the splash pool, the views promise to be nothing short of spectacular. Freshen up in your cabin before reconvening with your fellow cruisers in the bar for your favourite aperitif. During tonight’s dinner we arrive in Andernach.  

Andernach & Boppard  - You’ll feel the history in Andernach, founded by the Romans in 12BC on the site of an old Celtic settlement then seized by the Franks in 450 AD who set up a royal court within its old fort walls. By medieval times, the town had grown in stature and was trading with places as far away as England and Scandinavia (a Wall Street of its time!) even having its own mint and coinage. Andernach and the surrounding area is well known for its pumice with production booming since the 1950s. Enjoy a guided walking tour around its picturesque streets and admire the town’s defensive walls, gates and towers, the finest of which is the 56-metre tall Round Tower. See the ruined castle with its well-preserved keep, and the cathedral with its four soaring towers, impressive interior and quirky wall decorations. At the old harbour area discover the Old Crane, a 16th-century stone-turning tower crane, still in use until 1911 to load millstones, tuff and wine. 
Back on board for lunch, take in the glorious river scenery as we set sail for Boppard, a real time capsule, set against a backdrop of rolling forested slopes and vineyards. Nicknamed ‘Town of the Roses’ it’s a joy to amble through its picture-perfect streets soaking up the ambience of yesteryear. If you’re feeling energetic Marksburg Castle set on a hill overlooking the town is well worth the walk. Dating from the 13th century, as one of the only castles on the Rhine to fully escape war damage it well-deserves its UNESCO status. Learn about life here through the ages as you wander through the Gothic Hall, armoury and kitchen imagining life here in centuries past. With bird’s eye views stretching for miles over the river and valley below, it’s pretty clear why the castle was so well positioned to view oncoming enemies.  

Our ship remains moored overnight so after dinner there’s the chance to hop ashore once more for a nightcap in one of the cosy tucked away wine cellars.  

Rhine Gorge & Rüdesheim - Today you’ll have another change to see the world-famous Rhine Gorge, and luckily these views never get boring! Our idea of perfection is spending time sitting on the sun deck as you float past some of the most beautiful landscapes in Europe, with a nice coffee, no to do list to tick off, and nowhere to be. 
Later, we’ll arrive in Rüdesheim where you’ll have the afternoon to yourself. This town is like a postcard come to life, set amongst vine-covered slopes, with crooked houses, winding alleys, and quirky little shops. Famous for its wine, especially the Riesling grape, Rüdesheim is a wine lover's paradise so make time to enjoy a glass or two in a local Weinstuben. Wander to the marketplace, with its pastel facades, and enjoy a spot of people-watching in a cosy tavern. You’ve got time to check out the Brömserburg Castle of one of the towns little museums. There’s a cable car over the town too, so you can hover above the vines taking in the views! After dinner back on board, reconvene in the bar for a local Asbach brandy - it’d be rude not to! We remain moored in Rüdesheim overnight.  

Mainz - During breakfast arrive in the historic city of Mainz, a colourful ensemble of domes and spires rising above the riverbank. Situated at the confluence of the Rhine and Main Rivers, Mainz wears the crown as Germany’s wine capital and proudly claims fame as the birthplace of Johannes Gutenberg, the mastermind behind the movable type printing press.  

Dive into history at the city museum, where a reconstruction of Gutenberg's workshop and two copies of the original Gutenberg Bibles from 1455 await. Dominating the skyline is the Martinsdom Cathedral, a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture and Saint Stephen’s Church adds to the spectacle with its stained-glass windows.  

On our guided walking tour the city’s rich history is unveiled through our expert’s knowledge as we explore the cobbled streets of the old town, stopping to admire the patrician houses and timber-framed buildings. 
As we continue our scenic cruise, lunch is served on board. Seize the moment to indulge in the ship's facilities: treat yourself to a spa session or a visit to the hairdresser, or simply find a cosy spot in the lounge, sip on an afternoon cup of tea, and let the landscape of Germany's winelands unfold before your eyes – a panorama of lush woodland and vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see. What could be more blissful?  

Enjoy dinner on board as we continue sailing overnight to Miltenberg.  

Please note: Due to locks and low bridges the main part of the sun deck will be closed between Frankfurt and Nuremberg. The other outside areas in front of the lounge, the Riverview Kitchen and the lower section of the sun deck are still accessible.

Miltenberg & Wertheim - This morning brings us to the medieval village of Miltenberg, a living testament to the beauty of a bygone era. With our local guide leading the charge, we’ll navigate its labyrinth of winding alleys and lanes, uncovering the impressive gatehouse that stands guard over the village and the charming marketplace, lined with traditional fachwerk buildings sporting characterful timber frames; legend has it that the locals were granted free wood from the surrounding forests, resulting in the abundance of this architectural style. Marvel at the square's stone-carved fountain, featuring dancing cherubs, and the intricate detail of the Gasthaus Zum Riesen, claiming to be Germany's oldest tavern.  
Later our ship will pass under Miltenberg’s red-brick bridge as our Captain skilfully navigates the meandering bends of the Main before our arrival in Wertheim. Off the beaten tourist path, Wertheim welcomes us with its authentic ambience and a postcard-worthy scene of fishing boats anchored along the quayside, pastel-toned houses and a russet-walled 12th-century castle overseeing the old town. We’ll dive into the town's secrets during a late afternoon walking tour with an expert guide, keeping an eye out for the Zobelhaus – a contender for Germany's narrowest house.  

This evening enjoy another delectable dinner as we set sail towards Würzburg.  

Würzburg  - Indulge in a leisurely morning of sailing. By early afternoon, we’ll moor in the Bavarian city of Würzburg, a sophisticated gem gracing the banks of the Main. You’re sure to find it a contrast to the quintessential villages we've meandered through and after lunch, it's time to disembark for a guided tour.  

Founded in the 10th century as the epicentre of the kingdom known as Franconia, Würzburg unfolds like a living history book! The Marienberg Fortress watches over neat rows of grand, pastel-coloured buildings, punctuated by the spires and domes of the city's many churches. The crown jewel in Würzburg's regal collection though is the Residenz. This magnificent Baroque palace was originally dreamed up to give the Palace of Versailles a run for its money, and although it didn't quite top the French palace in scale, the Residenz earned its spot as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Brace yourself for one of Germany's most ornate staircases and a plethora of interconnected rooms adorned with frescoes, priceless tapestries, sculptures, and paintings.  

As we moor in Würzburg overnight, you’ll have plenty of time to roam here at your own pace.   

Rothenburg & Ochsenfurt - This morning, prepare for a delightful deviation as we take a drive along the Romantic Road – a fitting name for a route that winds through some of the most spellbinding scenery in the world. Our journey takes us through a folkloric landscape, threaded by a procession of medieval towns, castles and grand palaces. As you soak up the views, we’ll arrive at the town of Rothenburg, crowning a hill with sensational views over the river below. The old town is cradled within immaculately preserved walls and there’ll be time to explore its cobbled lanes, lined with tall gables and pointy roofs.   
Our ship awaits a short drive away in Ochsenfurt and after lunch, you’ll spend the afternoon enjoying a guided tour. Wander through the old town, pausing to admire the town hall, its mechanical clock stealing the show and 13th-century church with its vibrant interior. You’ll be transported back in time as you stroll amongst the timber-framed houses and ancient ramparts. 

We return to the ship for dinner where another delicious menu awaits and set sail towards Bamberg.  

Bamberg - Savor a morning of scenic sailing: find a prime spot in the lounge and watch as a kaleidoscope of glorious vistas slips past. 
This afternoon, we’ll dock in Bamberg – a town so pretty it could be the backdrop for a fairytale. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bamberg was Emperor Heinrich II's 11th-century masterpiece, strategically perched on seven lush green hills, giving it a Romanesque charm that could rival Rome. Our local guide will lead us on a tour, exploring the old town and the multi-spired cathedral. Amid the architectural wonders, you'll encounter Bamberg's most intriguing landmark – the town hall, sitting on an island in the middle of the river, flanked by bridges on either side. From this vantage point, you'll also catch a glimpse of 'Little Venice' – a cluster of fishermen's houses along the waterfront, mostly hailing from the Middle Ages.

As the evening unfolds, prepare for another highlight – a magnificent Chef's Dinner, then get ready for a toe-tapping performance of traditional Bavarian folk music, (the very same music that has made Oktoberfest world-famous). Departing from Bamberg, we seamlessly glide into the Main-Danube Canal, setting our course for the grand finale – historic Nuremberg.   

Nuremberg  - Our final morning of cruising has arrived, so savour every moment as we glide towards the Bavarian gem, Nuremberg. While its World War II associations linger in history, our guided tour will reveal a lesser-known side characterised by its cobbled streets, quintessential half-timbered houses, a castle restored after the war, and a surprising hoard of historic landmarks.  

Amidst this historic tapestry, you’ll find the Church of Saint Lawrence, a breathtaking specimen of Gothic architecture, and the Church of Our Lady, boasting a working mechanical clock that’s been keeping time since 1506! It oversees the Hauptmarkt, a picturesque square with a fountain reminiscent of a Gothic church tower.  

Following our tour, there’s time for you to meander through the city at your own pace. And amidst the grandeur, don’t miss the chance to sample Nuremberg’s renowned gingerbread or take some home as a souvenir.  

After a day of exploration, return to the ship for our final dinner - a splendid crescendo to the journey.  

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