Rhine River Cruise - Italian Lakes, Swiss Alps, Bruges & Paris

DAY 1, Wednesday - Arrive in Milan, Lake Como
Welcome to Italy! Arrive in Milan and transfer* to your hotel on the western shore of spectacular Lake Como, one of the world's most romantic destinations. The remainder of the day is at leisure to enjoy the beautiful new surroundings. Tonight, a Welcome Drink and orientation meeting with your tour manager at the hotel at approximately 6 PM, followed by a Welcome Dinner with your fellow travellers. We recommend that you select flights which arrive in your destination no later than 4 PM or earlier.
Overnight: Lake Como 
Meals: Dinner

DAY 2, Thursday - Village of Bellagio
Begin the day in this paradise with a scenic morning cruise on Lake Como to the exquisite village of Bellagio, named "The Pearl" of Lake Como. Nestled amid cypress groves, its earthy coloured buildings climb up from the lakeside promenade. Wander along the narrow streets and alleyways, lined with craft shops, boutiques and cafés; or visit some of the gorgeous gardens with manicured lawns and fountains at Villa Melzi or Villa Serbelloni. Upon return, time to experience the delights of this lakeside town with its spectacular mountain views, wonderful restaurants, and boutiques 
Overnight: Lake Como 
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 3, Friday - St. Gotthard Tunnel, Lucerne's Old City, Bern
Travel this morning through Switzerland's Italian-speaking Ticino region on the northern shore of glacial Lake Lugano. Its Swiss-Mediterranean mix of cultures is similar to Italy's northern Lombardy region and reflected in its architecture. Continue heading north traversing through the St. Gotthard Tunnel built under the Swiss Alps. On your journey to Lucerne, pass magnificent Alpine scenery, roaring waterfalls and running rivers. In stunning Lucerne, get acquainted with the city on your walking tour to the sentimental Lion Monument, the 14th century Chapel Bridge and the cobbled streets of the well-preserved medieval Altstadt (Old Town). Later, drive to Bern, the capital city of Switzerland for overnight 
Overnight: Bern 
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 4, Saturday - Bern City Tour
Begin the day with a city tour of Bern, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, that was founded in 1191. Enjoy a stroll through the old town and marvel at the late Gothic Cathedral, the Muenster, with its stunning portal and its depiction of the Last Judgment. Witness the hourly parade of painted figures at the Clock Tower (Zytglogge) and visit the Bear Park, the symbol of the city. Balance of the day is at leisure for individual explorations 
Overnight: Bern 
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 5, Sunday - Morning at Leisure, Cruise Embarkation in Basel
The morning is yours to independently discover Bern. Wander around the Laubengange, Europe's longest covered shopping promenade, to shop for chocolates, watches, the famous Swiss and German cuckoo clocks, or sip coffee at an outdoor café. This afternoon travel to Basel. After arrival formalities, time to relax on board. This evening, meet your Cruise Director and enjoy a gala Welcome Dinner as it sets the mood for your delightful river cruise 
Overnight: River Cruise 
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

DAY 6, Monday - Breisach Walking Tour
Arrive this morning in the small town of Breisach that dates back over 4,000 years. On your walking tour along the cobbled streets lined with pastel-painted houses, it's hard to believe this town was mostly destroyed in WWII and then totally restored to its original beauty. View the towering Romanesque and Gothic St. Stephansmunster Cathedral, a highlight of the city. Spend free time in town, or, join the optional tour to Colmar in France, known as Alsace's most beautiful city with its dramatic steep pitched roofs, pastel stucco and distinctive French shutters accented by window boxes filled with colourful geraniums. At the end of your tour, stop by a local wine maker to sample a few of the region's varietals 
Overnight: River Cruise 
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 7, Tuesday - Strasbourg City Tour
A lovely day awaits you in Strasbourg, the capital of Alsace, situated on the border of France and Germany, blending the cultures of both countries. Discover Strasbourg on the tour highlighting the city's centre, designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. Of special note is the stunning Gothic Cathedral, an exquisite example of late Gothic architecture that houses one of the finest astronomical clocks in existence. See the magical La Petite France district, home to quaint shops and charming bistros, Place Kleber, a large historic square in the centre of the city and Place Gutenberg, dedicated to the inventor of the printing press. This evening, the ship sets sail toward Speyer 
Overnight: River Cruise 
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 8, Wednesday - Morning in Speyer & Evening in Rudesheim
This morning arrive in Speyer. Perhaps take a refreshing morning walk through this picturesque town founded by the Romans, or alternatively, join the optional tour to Heidelberg, home to the oldest university in Germany and inspiration for some of the world's greatest writers and artists. The ship will continue sailing this morning and passengers joining the tour will rejoin the ship at lunchtime and relax on board this afternoon. After dinner, arrive in Rudesheim, a lively village in the heart of the Rhine; perhaps take a leisurely walk through town or visit a quaint wine tavern 
Overnight: River Cruise 
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 9, Thursday - Morning Cruising & Afternoon in Koblenz
This morning take in the spectacular vistas as the ship sails past castles perched on lofty cliffs, terraced vineyards and tiny villages. Pass the mighty Lorelei Rock on the eastern bank of the Rhine rising vertically from the waters, named for the siren "Lorelei" who bewitched sailors passing by. After lunch on board, the ship docks in Koblenz, located at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers. Join an orientation walk and free time to explore the Romanesque architecture and imposing defensive towers of this 2000-year old city. Or, join the optional tour to the dramatic Marksburg Castle, the only hill castle on the Rhine that's never been destroyed and has been continuously occupied for over 700 years 
Optional: Marksburg Castle (PM) 
Overnight: River Cruise 
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 10, Friday - Cologne City Tour
Today the ship will dock in Cologne, one of Germany's largest cities and capital of the Rhineland. Your walking tour of the city is highlighted by the soaring, twin-steeple Gothic cathedral that is the geographical and spiritual heart of the city. Known for its vibrant art scene, Cologne abounds with cafes, galleries, shops and taverns. The ship will set sail just before dinner this evening 
Overnight: River Cruise 
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 11, Saturday - Amsterdam City Tour
Cruise into Amsterdam as you enjoy breakfast on board, and join a panoramic tour of 700-year-old Amsterdam. View the Royal Palace on Amsterdam's Dam Square, the Queen's official home-away-from-home. On to the Dutch National Monument dedicated by Queen Juliana as a memorial to the victims of WWII and to the unusual Skinny Bridge, once so narrow that pedestrians could not pass each other. Then, board a glass-top boat and cruise the winding canals for an up-close view of the stately historic homes, 16th-century warehouses and charming churches with striking bell towers. This evening bid farewell to your traveling companions on your final night on board 
Overnight: River Cruise 
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 12, Sunday - Tour Brussels, Bruges Orientation Walk
This morning, disembark your ship and travel through the countryside to reach Brussels. On a panoramic bus tour of Belgium's capital city, view the gigantic Atomium that still remains from the 1958 World Expo, and the Royal Palace or the Monts des Arts. Then follow your local guide through the Saint-Hubert Royal Galleries to the Grand Place, a re-created 15th century town square with decorated guild houses and see at the well-known Manneken Pis bronze sculpture. Continuing your journey to Bruges and enjoy an orientation walk through one of Europe's most beautiful cities. Walk along picturesque cobbled lanes lined with historic churches and whitewashed almshouses. View the Church of Our Lady, housing the astonishing Madonna statue by Michelangelo, and visit the Market Square with its astonishing Belfry. This evening, treat yourself to an extraordinary dinner or perhaps just sample the city's famous chocolate and beer 
Overnight: Bruges 
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 13, Monday - Afternoon in Paris, the "City of Lights"
On to Paris, the "City of Lights." Upon arrival, start your discovery of one of the world’s greatest cities with its endless treasures. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure. Perhaps, visit the bustling Montmartre and see spectacular views of the city, visit the Basilica of Sacre Coeur, and walk the winding streets to mingle with the street artists selling their wares at Place du Tertre Shop 
Overnight: Paris 
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 14, Tuesday - Tour of Paris
Drive along the famous Champs Elysees to the Arc de Triomphe, Concorde Square, and the iconic Eiffel Tower, symbol of Paris. On to the celebrated "Rive Gauche," the vivacious Left Bank where artists, philosophers and writers in a long gone era flourished in the artistic community at Montparnasse. View the Latin Quarter, home to many of France’s higher education establishments, such as the Sorbonne. Spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure or join the optional tour to magnificent Versailles to witness the grandeur of French classical architecture on the visit to the Palace and extravagant State Apartments 
Overnight: Paris 
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 15, Wednesday - Depart France
This morning after breakfast your wonderful tour comes to an end.
Meals: Breakfast

*Airport transfers are available for purchase. Please contact our travel team for prices on freecall, 1300 414 198.

Book by 12 Sep to lock in these savings!

Land only - based on Cabin E - Outside lower deck.
To upgrade to a higher deck and add flights, please call our friendly travel team on freecall 1300 414 198.

05 May 2020 - NOW From $6,929 pp twin share

02 Jun 2020 - NOW From $6,849 pp twin share

30 Jun 2020 - NOW From $5,879 pp twin share

14 Jul 2020 - NOW From $5,729 pp twin share

11 Aug 2020 - NOW From $6,029 pp twin share

25 Aug 2020 - NOW From $6,929 pp twin share

22 Sep 2020 - NOW From $6,629 pp twin share

06 Oct 2020 - NOW From $6,479 pp twin share

Hotel Metropole Suisse, Como -This first class hotel is located in the centre of town, on the waterfront piazza.

Hotel Allegro Kursaal Bern, Bern - This first class hotel is located in the city of Bern.

Best Western Hotel Bern, Bern - This First Class Hotel, located in Bern's Old City, allows for easy access to many historic sites and major tourist attractions within walking distance.

Monarch Countess - The Monarch Countess is a first class river cruise vessel.

Novotel Brugge Centrum, Bruges - This tourist class hotel is located in the heart of Bruges, the medieval city, near to the town market.

Pullman Paris Montparnasse, Paris - This first class hotel is located nearby Gare Montparnasse in a lively district that offers a large choice of restaurants and shops.

Is This Trip Right for You?

This moderately active trip covers a fair amount of ground each day. Expect from three to four hours walking every touring day. The pace is moderate, however you will encounter some uneven surfaces, stairs, steps and significant slopes. There is a potential for a small number of sailings to be impacted by river water levels, or other factors which may impact safe navigation. This may cause part or all of the cruise itinerary to be operated by motor coach and may also involve hotel accommodations.

High & Low Water

While most of the time river cruises operate exactly as planned, weather conditions may result in high or low water levels which impact a ship's itinerary and, on occasion, render a ship unable to sail at all. On very rare occasions, other events such as heavy fog, a damaged lock, or an incapacitated vessel blocking the river, may impact a sailing. These events typically occur with little or no notice. In the event that a cruise is partially or completely impacted, the itinerary will be operated by deluxe motor coach, accompanied by a Tour Manager, with overnights in hotels. The itinerary will include as many of the originally scheduled sightseeing features as possible, considering the travel time and distances required, as well as meals. While it is not possible to recreate the more leisurely comforts of sailings, we will endeavour to provide a comparable itinerary.

Trip Preparation

A little pre-planning can make your trip go a lot smoother. Several weeks before your trip, make a list of what you will need to take with you. Make sure your personal documents (passports, visas, driver’s license) are in order. Make sure also that you have enough prescription medications to last through the trip.