Europe's Heartland 2025|2026 - 25 Days (from Zurich to Paris)

Nestled between the Rhine River and the Black Forest, Breisach offers a delightful blend of history and gastronomy. Today, choose from a variety of Scenic Freechoice experiences. Delight in wine tasting at the volcanic-soiled Kaiserstuhl, step into a fairy tale in Colmar with its charming canals and half-timbered houses, or explore the medieval heart of Freiburg, where history whispers through cobblestone streets.

Kehl serves as your portal to the vibrant city of Strasbourg, where French and German influences intertwine. Discover the UNESCO-listed Grand Ile, wander through Petite France with its medieval charm, or venture into the Alsace Wine Region. Visit Mittelbergheim, one of France's most beautiful villages, and enjoy a wine tasting before exploring the lively town of Obernai.

Arrive in Mannheim, where a day of exploration awaits. Choose to explore the historic city of Heidelberg, with its stunning castle and vibrant Old Town, or journey to Bad Durkheim for a taste of exceptional wines at a family-owned vineyard. Each option offers a unique glimpse into the rich culture and history of this region.

In the picturesque town of Rüdesheim, surrounded by vineyards, choose your adventure. Visit Siegfried’s Musikkabinett Museum to marvel at mechanical musical instruments, or hike through the vineyards for breathtaking views before taking a cable car to the historic Niederwald Monument. As you sail through the Rhine Gorge, let the legends and landscapes captivate your imagination.

Step into a storybook setting in Cochem, where pastel-colored buildings and a medieval castle await. Choose a guided tour of Reichsburg Castle, with its knight's hall and trophy room, or explore the town and its surroundings on an e-bike. Spend your afternoon at leisure, soaking in the charm of this enchanting location.

In Bernkastel, explore the atmospheric market square and the ruins of Landshut Castle. Choose a walking tour to delve into the town's rich history or venture to Trier, a Roman city near the Luxembourg border. Alternatively, indulge in a wine tasting along the Moselle, savoring the flavors of this renowned wine region.

In Koblenz, where the Rhine and Moselle rivers meet, explore a city rich in history and culture. Choose a guided walking tour to uncover its ancient secrets, visit the medieval Marksburg Castle, or journey to the charming town of Limburg an der Lahn. Your Scenic Space-Ship will remain docked overnight, allowing you to experience Koblenz by night.

Arrive in Antwerp, a city of contrasts and the diamond capital of the world. Choose a guided walking tour to explore its medieval center, visit the towns of Passchendaele and Ypres to learn about WWI, or journey to Bruges for a taste of its medieval charm. Alternatively, indulge in a craft beer and chocolate pairing experience.

In the charming village of Veere, explore its rich history and Scottish ties. Discover heritage buildings on a guided tour, cycle through the village and surrounding dykes, or visit the impressive Delta Works, a marvel of engineering designed to protect the region from flooding.

In Utrecht, a city of canals and green spaces, explore its medieval Old Town and the iconic Domtoren. Alternatively, visit the fairy-tale De Haar Castle, the largest in the Netherlands, with its stunning gardens and classic interiors. Spend your afternoon cruising towards Amsterdam, enjoying the scenic views from the Sun Deck.

Cruise towards Les Andelys, a picturesque town on the Seine. Choose to hike to the ruins of Château Gaillard, once the stronghold of Richard the Lionheart, or explore the charming town and its Norman-era houses. Alternatively, visit Lyons la Forêt, one of France's most beautiful villages, surrounded by lush beech forests.

In Rouen, the capital of Normandy, explore a city steeped in history. Choose a guided tour to discover its medieval past, including the famed Rouen Cathedral, or join a Viking-themed tour with Rollo the Walker. Alternatively, capture the city's beauty on a photography discovery tour. This evening, enjoy a WWI lecture on board.

Dock in Honfleur, a coastal town with a vibrant harbor and cobbled streets. Join a guided walking tour to explore its historic sites, including the Church of Sainte-Catherine, France's largest wooden church. This evening, attend a lecture on WWII, gaining insights into the battles and strategies that shaped history.

Explore the historic Normandy Beaches, where allied troops landed during WWII. Choose an excursion focused on Omaha Beach, the British Normandy Memorial, or the Juno Beach Centre. Alternatively, visit Bayeux to see its famous tapestry and cathedral. Each option offers a unique perspective on this pivotal moment in history.

In Caudebec-En-Caux, set out to explore the Normandy region. Cycle to Villequier to visit the Victor Hugo Museum, tour the Benedictine Palace in Fecamp, or hear tales of the French Resistance. Alternatively, discover the spiritual heritage of the Normandy Abbey Road, visiting historic abbeys along the Seine.

Arrive in Vernon, a gateway to the artistic haven of Giverny. Visit Monet's House and Garden, where the artist found inspiration for his masterpieces. Alternatively, take a self-guided cycle tour from Vernon to Giverny, exploring the charming town and its picturesque surroundings. This evening, enjoy a classical concert at Château de La Roche Guyon.

In Conflans-Saint-Honore, explore the outer regions of Paris. Visit Auvers-Sur-Oise, where Van Gogh painted his final masterpieces, or tour the magnificent Chantilly Castle and Gardens. Alternatively, kayak along the River Oise, taking in the serene landscapes. This afternoon, relax on board as you cruise back to Paris.

Welcome back to Paris, where a day of exploration awaits. Choose a highlights tour to see iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower and Notre Dame Cathedral, or discover the trendy Marais District with a local guide. Alternatively, visit the opulent Opera Garnier or the exquisite Château Vaux-le-Vicomte. This afternoon, enjoy free time to explore Paris at your leisure.