Rhine and Moselle with Swiss and Italian Lakes

Be met on arrival and transferred to your premium river ship. This evening, meet your Cruise Director and fellow travellers at a Welcome Reception. 

With historic houses lining its banks and low bridges spanning its waterways, Amsterdam’s 17th-century canal network has earned it the nickname 'Venice of the North'. Today, board a glass-top boat and cruise past the city’s waterside sights with a local guide. Later this evening, enjoy a special Welcome Dinner on board.

Learn how the twin spires of Cologne’s famous cathedral, the Kölner Dom, took over six centuries to complete as you cruise into this picturesque city. Disembark and take the short drive to Brühl for your Insider Experience. This afternoon, enjoy free time to explore the centre of Cologne at your leisure.

Insider Experience – Augustusburg Palace in Germany

Explore the former residence of Archbishop-Elector Clemens August, the World Heritage-listed Augustusburg Palace in Brühl. Listen to enthralling stories and enjoy a walk through the stunning landscaped parks and gardens between the palace and the Falkenlust hunting lodge. The palace and the lodge are some of the finest examples of rococo architecture from 18th century Germany.

Relax and enjoy the scenery as you cruise along one of the Moselle River’s most picturesque stretches. In Cochem, set out on a walking tour through narrow lanes lined with half-timbered houses, then visit magnificent Cochem Castle, perched high above the river like a scene from a fairy tale.

Cruise through the Rhine Gorge, widely regarded as the most scenic stretch of the Rhine River. In Rüdesheim, ride the Winzerexpress mini road train through the town to Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum to view its remarkable collection of automated instruments. Afterwards, enjoy time to wander the Old Town and perhaps visit the famous Käthe Wohlfahrt Christmas store.

Arrive in Strasbourg, the Alsatian city set on the border of France and Germany. Enjoy a special Insider Experience before returning to your river ship for a Farewell Dinner.

Insider Experience – Old Town Tour and Tasting

Join a guided walking tour through the historic centre of Strasbourg, admiring its medieval architecture, including the famous cathedral. Along the way, sample regional specialties such as local cheeses and sweet treats.

Disembark in Breisach and set out on a scenic journey into the enchanting Black Forest. Travel by coach through mountainsides cloaked in pine and birch forest, arriving in the picturesque village of Triberg.

After breakfast, disembark and travel by coach to Lucerne. On arrival, enjoy a guided walking tour with a local expert, discovering the charming old town and landmarks such as the Chapel Bridge and the Lion Monument, along with views across Lake Lucerne and the surrounding mountains. This evening, join your fellow travellers for a Welcome Dinner.

This morning, cruise across Lake Lucerne to the lakeside village of Vitznau, enjoying tranquil waters and mountain scenery along the way. From Vitznau, board the historic cogwheel railway for the journey to Rigi Kulm, the summit of Mount Rigi. At the top, take in sweeping panoramic views over Lake Lucerne and the surrounding peaks. You may wish to enjoy a gentle alpine walk or lunch at a mountain restaurant before returning to Lucerne (additional expense). Spend the rest of the evening at leisure.

After breakfast, cruise across Lake Lucerne to Flüelen, enjoying lunch on board as you take in the alpine scenery. Enjoy an Insider Experience before continuing by coach into the lakeside town of Stresa on Lake Maggiore. This evening, enjoy a delicious Italian dinner.

Insider Experience – First Class Aboard Gotthard Panorama Express

From Flüelen, board the Gotthard Panorama Express for a First Class journey along the historic Gotthard route to Lugano, passing mountain landscapes and dramatic valleys.

Today enjoy a special Insider Experience, with the remainder of the day at leisure in Stresa.

Insider Experience – Lake Maggiore and Isola Bella Private Cruise

Set out on a private cruise across Lake Maggiore, taking in views of the lakeside Hermitage of Santa Caterina del Sasso from the water. Continue to Isola Bella to explore the magnificent Palazzo Borromeo and its terraced gardens, then enjoy free time on the island before returning to Stresa.

Choose how to spend your day in Stresa today. Explore at your own pace or perhaps choose an optional excursion to Lake Orta.

Enhance Your Journey – Lake Orta

Discover the serene beauty of Lake Orta on a full-day excursion from Stresa. Wander the charming village of Orta San Giulio, cruise across the lake to the enchanting San Giulio Island, and soak up the peaceful atmosphere of one of Italy’s most picturesque destinations.

This morning travel to Milan and join a guided walking tour with a local expert. Discover the city’s iconic landmarks while learning about its rich culture and renowned fashion heritage. The remainder of the day is yours to explore at leisure.

Travel by First Class rail to Bologna, Italy’s culinary capital and a city steeped in history. After checking in to your hotel, enjoy some free time to explore.

Discover Bologna’s historic streets before a special culinary experience today.

Insider Experience – Bologna Gastronomic Experience

Delight in a guided journey through Bologna’s renowned food culture. Sample fresh pasta, artisanal cheeses and cured meats, taste authentic local specialties and learn why the city is celebrated as Italy’s culinary capital.

Board your train to Venice, your final destination. After checking in to your hotel, enjoy time at leisure to soak up the beauty of the city’s canals and historic streets.

Explore the streets of Venice today, including the iconic Piazza San Marco, before venturing beyond the main sights to explore quieter corners of the city. Spend the remainder of the day at leisure, enjoying your final moments in Italy with your fellow travellers.

Insider Experience – Bacaro and Cicchetti Tour

Experience Venice like a local as you wander through lanes and hidden alleyways on a bacaro (wine bar) and cicchetti (tapas) tour paired with regional wines. The tour concludes with a Farewell Lunch.

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your onward flight, bringing your Swiss and Italian journey to a close.