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Glacier Express and The Romantic Rhine Cruise

 
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20262027
Duration
11 days
From per person
$4,795 $4,495
Tour code
EGR27
Mobility Rating 2
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Travel among a group of like-minded travelers led by a professional tour manager
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Cruise the romantic Rhine, sailing through stunning scenery and exploring historic cities before experiencing the iconic Glacier Express, staying in the alpine resort of Zermatt

Combine an enchanting Rhine River cruise with an unforgettable journey on the renowned Glacier Express.

From the canal-side streets and bridges of Amsterdam and past the hilltop castles of the legendary Rhine Gorge, every moment is a cultural experience. Marvel at the architectural splendor of Cologne, explore beautiful Rüdesheim and delve into the rich history of Heidelberg and Speyer.

This vacation continues in breathtaking Zermatt with a spectacular journey on the iconic Glacier Express, where panoramic windows unveil Switzerland's most stunning alpine landscapes, from deep gorges to towering peaks.

Unforgettable Experiences

Riding iconic railways through Swiss landscapes
Riding iconic railways through Swiss landscapes
Journey through stunning mountain scenery on the renowned Glacier Express and enjoy some of the most sensational views of the Matterhorn on the Gornergrat Mountain Railway.
Admiring the UNESCO-listed Rhine Gorge
Admiring the UNESCO-listed Rhine Gorge
Sail through this enchanting World Heritage site, soaking up amazing views of spellbinding castles, verdant forests, vineyard-clad slopes and the legendary Lorelei Rock.
Staying in Zermatt and Chur
Staying in Zermatt and Chur
Enjoy time to explore beautiful Swiss towns with stays in idyllic Zermatt – at the foot of the mighty Matterhorn – and in picture-perfect Chur, Switzerland’s oldest town.
Visiting Heidelberg, the “Jewel of Germany”
Visiting Heidelberg, the “Jewel of Germany”
Delve into the history of this picturesque riverside city a guided tour, marveling at the ruins of a red sandstone castle that towers over this renowned university city.
Discovering the popular wine town of Rüdesheim
Discovering the popular wine town of Rüdesheim
Wander the famous Drosselgasse, lined with traditional wine cellars, and choose between a local wine-tasting or a visit to Siegfried's Mechanical Music Cabinet.

What’s included on the tour?

Itinerary

DAY1Boarding our luxurious ship in Amsterdam

Your magnificent Rhine cruise vacation begins today in the Dutch capital, Amsterdam. As you arrive, transfer independently to the Rhine waterfront, where our luxurious ship awaits boarding.

You are welcomed onboard our ship by the friendly crew and can sip on a welcome cocktail while taking in the waterside views. There is time to get settled into your cabin and familiarize yourself with the luxurious new surroundings. Our floating hotel is equipped with excellent facilities throughout and you might like to unwind while enjoying them.

Later this evening, meet the Tour Manager and your group of fellow travelers ahead of our first dinner together in the panoramic restaurant. Our meal is accompanied by a wonderful performance from a traditional Dutch sea shanty choir - the perfect start to a fantastic cruise down the Rhine. Overnight ship.

Includes
  • Dinner
DAY2Amsterdam canal boat cruise or exploring Volendam 

On the first full day of our journey, we enjoy breakfast onboard before getting to know Amsterdam on a sightseeing canal boat cruise, soaking up stunning views of the city's picturesque canals and architecture. Each moment reveals the contrasts of Amsterdam, a city that is as modern as it is historic.

Alternatively, you could choose to join an optional excursion: a visit to Volendam and Edam. These two historic towns are renowned for their cheese heritage, which can be uncovered on a guided tour. As well as being famed for Dutch cheese, Volendam is a stunning old town, with traditional houses lining serene canals and a small harbor.

Later, we embark on our first relaxing cruise of the vacation, sailing through the Lower Rhine and enjoying an onboard dinner this evening. Overnight ship.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY3Exploring the historic city of Cologne

Sailing this morning, we can enjoy the views as we approach Cologne, with the city's bridges and imposing cathedral coming into view as we arrive around lunchtime.

After lunch on board, we embark on a guided tour that introduces us to its squares and Romanesque townhouses. This German city sits beside the Rhine and was founded as a military camp by the Romans, who named it Colonia, from which the modern term "colony" is derived. The city's most iconic landmark is its impressive cathedral, the largest in northern Europe. Construction of this UNESCO-listed edifice began in 1248 to house relics of the Three Wise Men. Rising more than 515 feet with spectacular twin spires, this Gothic masterpiece is the most visited attraction in Germany. There is time here to stand in awe and marvel at its ornate carvings and stained-glass windows.

Returning to our ship, we enjoy dinner while moored in Cologne, and because we stay here overnight, you could stroll along the river this evening. Overnight ship.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY4Riding the scenic Drachenfelsbahn

Enjoy a morning of relaxed sailing as we leave Cologne and continue south along the Rhine, passing through Bonn en route to our first destination.

After lunch, we dock in Königswinter for a trip highlight: a trip on the Drachenfels Cog Railway. Rising high into the forests, we pass the fairytale Drachenburg Castle - the name of which translates as "Dragon's Rock" and has inspired many of the dragon-related legends still heard today. Traveling to the summit, we can admire wonderful views across the rolling hills of the Rhine-Westphalia region of Germany.

Departing Königswinter this evening, we begin sailing toward Koblenz and enjoy dinner on the way. Keep your eyes peeled for the highest cold-water geyser in the world that erupts up to heights of nearly 200 feet on the approach to Andernach. Overnight ship.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY5Through the magical Rhine Gorge to Rüdesheim

Enjoy some free time this morning to explore Koblenz, once a Roman stronghold. We recommend strolling to Deutsches Eck at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers for inspiring vistas, including that of Ehrenbreitstein Fortress.

Setting sail, we encounter another vacation highlight after lunch as we drift through the Rhine Gorge. This UNESCO-listed section of the river is renowned for its spectacular views. Winding around bends surrounded by vineyards, hilltop castles and picturesque towns, we also hear the legend of the Lorelei Rock. Soaring almost 500 feet out of the water, this monument has been the inspiration for countless myths and legends, including the tale of a siren whose song has enchanted passing sailors.

We dock in Rüdesheim and travel to the center of this renowned wine town by land train with a choice of excursions on arrival. You could savor Rüdesheim's most famous produce with a tasting of the finest local varieties of wine or visit Siegfried's Mechanical Music Cabinet. After dinner, you are free to explore the town's cobbled streets, including Drosselgasse Alley. Overnight ship.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY6Along the Upper Rhine to Heidelberg and Speyer 

Cruising toward the Upper Rhine, we arrive in the city of Mannheim after breakfast. From here, we journey by coach to Heidelberg for a guided tour. The picturesque university town is known for its lovely Old Town and riverfront, which is perfect for a relaxing walk. Our tour includes a visit to the magnificent ruined red sandstone castle that towers over the city, providing amazing views of the surrounding forests, river and cityscape.

Back on board, we begin sailing to Speyer after lunch. We arrive later this afternoon, and you can discover one of Germany's oldest cities at your own pace. There is a beautiful Old Town, and among the highlights is the 11th-century cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and one of the most important landmarks of the Holy Roman Empire.

Returning to our ship, we enjoy dinner onboard ahead of a restful overnight sailing upstream. Overnight ship.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY7Reaching Strasbourg and optional Black Forest excursion 

Sailing into the historic Alsace city of Strasbourg after breakfast, you have a choice of two wonderful excursions. The first is a trip into the Black Forest to witness stunning views. Germany's largest nature park is filled with rolling hills, fairytale villages, dense forests and wildflower meadows. On an exploration of this idyllic setting, learn about the enchanting history and folklore of the region.

Alternatively, you could enjoy a city tour of Strasbourg. Alsace is now in France, but was once part of Germany. The grand architecture of its main city reflects this blend of the two cultures. On the tour, we visit its striking cathedral and the quaint La Petite France District. Home to tanners, millers and fishermen in the Middle Ages, this pretty area is now a UNESCO World Heritage site of cobbled streets, flower-lined canals and beautiful half-timbered houses.

After your excursion this afternoon, we return to our ship for lunch and begin our final cruise toward Switzerland, enjoying the picturesque vistas en route. Overnight ship.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY8Arrival in Zermatt

After enjoying our final breakfast onboard our ship, we say farewell to our wonderful crew and disembark for the final time in Basel, leaving the River Rhine behind.

After stepping ashore, a coach transfer takes us to Basel's station, where we continue our journey by rail. Settle in and watch the scenic route unfold as we venture toward the iconic alpine setting of Zermatt for the second part of our vacation. Sitting at the heart of the Swiss Alps, this car-free mountain village has wonderful views of the surrounding alpine peaks, including the mighty Matterhorn, and is awash in old-world architecture and quintessential mountain charm.

After checking into our hotel for the next two nights, we enjoy our first dinner together in this idyllic setting amidst the Alps. Overnight Zermatt.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Dinner
DAY9Beautiful views on the Gornergrat Mountain Railway 

Waking up in Zermatt, we enjoy breakfast before setting off on a heritage train ride. More than 125 years old, the charming Gornergrat Mountain Railway is Switzerland's original electric rack railway and the second highest in Europe. Climbing over picturesque valleys and through lush alpine forests, the train carries us to an altitude of more than 10,000 feet above sea level.

The views from the top are utterly jaw-dropping, and on a clear day, an astonishing 29 mountaintops are visible. We have time to soak up these spellbinding vistas, including the best view of the majestic Matterhorn. This famous mountain is an iconic symbol of Switzerland, and its striking shape also provided the inspiration for the design of Toblerone.

Back amongst the low-pitched roofs of Zermatt's timbered chalets, an expert guide reveals the history of this charming alpine resort, including the intriguing story of English mountaineer Edward Whymper. We dine independently tonight, and you could opt for one of Zermatt's many cozy restaurants. Overnight Zermatt.

Includes
  • Breakfast
DAY10 The iconic Glacier Express to Chur 

Today, we board the magnificent Glacier Express. Our panoramic journey takes us through undeniably Swiss scenes of snow-capped mountains, plunging valleys and dense forests. Traveling at an average of 24 miles per hour, "the slowest express train in the world" enters the nine-mile-long Furka Base Tunnel after Brig, emerging high in the Alps.

Enjoy lunch onboard this world-famous train as we soak up breathtaking vistas of alpine meadows and storybook villages around Andermatt, before we descend toward the "Swiss Grand Canyon." Here, the emerald Rhine winds between bright-white cliffs further highlighted by verdant forests in the background.

On arrival in Chur, we check into our hotel. Before dinner at the hotel, there is time to explore Switzerland's oldest town. Wander the Altstadt to discover cobbled streets and charming squares surrounded by historic buildings. Overnight Chur.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY11Traveling home

The changing landscapes of the Rhine were revealed on a luxury cruise from Amsterdam to Strasbourg and the Black Forest and beyond. En route, we soaked up breathtaking scenery from our front-row seats, gliding through the stunning Rhine Gorge between Koblenz and Rüdesheim. Our tour continued in Zermatt as we viewed the awe-inspiring Matterhorn from the Gornergrat Railway, and then experienced the iconic Glacier Express during a journey to Chur.

After breakfast, it is time to bid farewell to Chur and begin your travels home. Make your own way to Chur's railway station and board the train to Zürich's airport, where your journey concludes.

Includes
  • Breakfast

Additional information

Info - Travel Options

We offer a Standard Class and First Class rail options for departures on this tour. You can find out which class each departure is by clicking on the information button in the pricing grid. (Look for S - Standard Class and F - First Class)

Departure times

Departure times vary based on selected rail vacation. This information will be provided in your final documents. For more information please speak with your rail specialist.

Mobility information

Due to the nature of our tours, they are generally unsuitable for those with restricted mobility. Please reference our Mobility Ratings Information, and if you’d like to discuss any particular vacation with us in this respect, then please don’t hesitate to call us at 1-877-929-7245.

Train & Ship Information

See more details about this tour's trains and ships.

Find out more
MS Amadeus Amara Cabin DS | Great Rail Journeys
Deluxe Suites - Upper Deck

Travel the rivers in the utmost comfort and style when you choose to stay in one of our incredible Deluxe Suites. These cabins are larger than the others on board, at 26.4 square meters, and come with additional touches that add just that extra touch of opulence, including private walk-out balconies and lounge areas.

Find out more
MS Amadeus Amara Cabin A1 | Great Rail Journeys
Deluxe Stateroom - Upper Deck

Discover the perfect balance of luxury and relaxation when you choose to stay in one of our Deluxe Staterooms. Offering 17.5 square meters, these cabins offer plenty of room to ensure a comfortable experience, with a drop-down panoramic window to take in the river views.

Find out more
MS Amadeus Amara Cabin B1 | Great Rail Journeys
Deluxe Stateroom - Middle Deck

Discover the perfect balance of luxury and relaxation when you choose to stay in one of our Deluxe Staterooms. Offering 17.5 square meters, these cabins offer plenty of room to ensure a comfortable experience, with a drop-down panoramic window to take in the river views.

Find out more
MS Amadeus Amara Cabin C1 | Great Rail Journeys
Classic Stateroom - Lower Deck

Designed with both style and practicality in mind, our 16 square meter Classic Staterooms offer a peaceful and well-equipped space for your journey, offering an inviting space to relax and unwind after an Designed with both style and practicality in mind, our 16 square meter Classic Staterooms offer a peaceful and well-equipped space for your journey, offering an inviting space to relax and unwind after an engaging day of cruising or excursions.engaging day of cruising or excursions.

Find out more
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