Zurich - Lucerne & Christmas Markets on the Rhine

Upon arrival at Zurich Airport, you will be transferred to your hotel in the heart of Zurich. After settling in, take the opportunity to explore this beloved Swiss city at your own pace. Stroll along the lakeside or wander through the charming Christmas markets, where you can soak in the festive atmosphere. Enjoy a restful night at your hotel in Zurich (or similar).

Start your day with a guided walking tour of Zurich, exploring its rich history and vibrant culture. Later, transfer to Lucerne, a city renowned for its stunning natural beauty. Spend the afternoon at leisure, wandering through the old town adorned with festive lights and handicrafts. End your day at the charming Christmas markets, where you can indulge in mulled wine and traditional treats. Overnight stay in Lucerne (or similar).

Discover the enchanting city of Lucerne with a guided tour that takes you through its medieval Altstadt, the iconic Chapel Bridge, and the octagonal Water Tower. Learn about the city's history while enjoying the picturesque backdrop of snow-capped mountains. Optional: Take a train and cable car ride to Rigi – Weggis for an extra expense. Overnight stay in Lucerne (or similar).

After breakfast, embark on a scenic coach journey through picturesque landscapes to the Rhine-side town of Basel. Upon arrival, board your Emerald Cruises Star-Ship, where the captain and crew will warmly welcome you. Enjoy a delightful dinner on board as you settle in for the night. Overnight stay on the Star-Ship in Basel.

Today, visit the charming Rhine town of Breisach, known as the gateway to Germany's Black Forest region. In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic drive through the Black Forest Highlands, arriving at the historic Hofgut Sternen complex at the foothill of Ravenna Gorge. Experience the enchanting Christmas market beneath the 40-metre-high Ravenna Viaduct, where you can savor Black Forest specialties and unique handcrafted products. Overnight stay on the Star-Ship in Breisach.

Dock in Kehl and transfer by coach to Strasbourg, the capital of France's Alsace region. Enjoy a guided tour of Strasbourg's UNESCO World Heritage-listed Grande Île, exploring its medieval half-timbered buildings, Baroque sandstone structures, and charming canals. Visit one of the city's delightful Christmas markets to savor traditional German treats and shop for festive gifts. Overnight stay on the Star-Ship in Strasbourg.

Explore the rich history of Heidelberg with a guided tour that includes a visit to the ruins of Heidelberg Castle, offering stunning views of the Rhine River and the city's red-roofed skyline. Enjoy a wine tasting session and stroll through the cobbled streets of the Old Town, visiting the Church of the Holy Spirit and Germany's oldest university. Overnight stay on the Star-Ship in Heidelberg.

Immerse yourself in the fairy-tale charm of Koblenz with a guided walking tour. Explore the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers at the German Corner and enjoy panoramic views from Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. Optional: Visit the Moselle Valley and Cochem Castle for an extra expense. Overnight stay on the Star-Ship in Koblenz.

Experience the festive transformation of Cologne with a guided tour of the city's Old Town. Visit the ornate Christmas markets, including the one beneath the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cologne Cathedral, where you can enjoy traditional glühwein and festive treats. Overnight stay on the Star-Ship in Cologne.

Board a glass-top canal boat for a scenic tour of Amsterdam's UNESCO World Heritage-listed canal system. Pass by historic merchant houses and explore the city's festive Christmas stalls, enjoying mulled wine and traditional holiday foods. Overnight stay on the Star-Ship in Amsterdam.

After breakfast, bid farewell to your fellow guests and the Star-Ship crew as you are transferred to the airport. Take with you cherished memories of quintessential German villages and the magic of Christmas. Safe travels!