Combine a five-star cruise on the Moselle and Rhine Rivers with
a rail journey on the iconic Glacier Express, traversing the
breathtaking Swiss Alps
A stunning adventure from beginning to end, this journey
combines time in beautiful Switzerland, riding the iconic Glacier
Express, with a magical seven-night cruise on the Rhine and Moselle
Rivers.
Stay in Zermatt, beneath the Matterhorn, and enjoy two
spectacular rail excursions before sailing past the castles,
forests and Lorelei Rock in the stunning Rhine Gorge. Then, ancient
Roman ruins sprinkle the Moselle landscape as we calmly drift
through its natural beauty and enjoy the peaceful pace of life on
this meandering river, from ancient Trier to enchanting Cochem.
Unforgettable Experiences
Experience the renowned Glacier Express
Embark on one of the world’s greatest rail experiences with a journey through snow-capped peaks and deep alpine valleys, sitting in panoramic carriages and enjoying lunch at our seats as we travel to Chur.
Travel on the Gornergrat Mountain Railway
Journey to the summit of the Gornergrat on a six-mile journey aboard the second-highest railway in Europe, witnessing unparalleled vistas of the Matterhorn from the summit.
View the Matterhorn from Zermatt
Stay in this luxurious resort town, waking to views of the Matterhorn and spending time discovering the town, with its wooden chalets, geranium-filled balconies and history of mountaineering.
Discover fascinating history in Trier
Explore Trier, a UNESCO World Heritage site, where ancient Roman ruins occupy the same street corner as classic Baroque architecture and brightly colored townhouses.
Uncover Rüdesheim’s highlights
Discover this wine town and its famous Drosselgasse Alley, lined with traditional pubs and wine cellars, and choose between a wine tasting or a visit to Siegfried's Mechanical Music Cabinet.
What’s included on the tour?
Tour Manager
Escorted throughout your tour by our experienced Tour Manager/Cruise Director team
Accommodation
3 nights’ 4-Star hotel accommodation
Cruise
7-night cruise onboard MS Amadeus Cara
Five-Star service onboard from our English-speaking crew
Complimentary onboard Wi-Fi
Transportation
1st & Standard Class rail travel on local rail networks
All rail and coach travel throughout your tour
Eurostar Plus
Eurostar light meals
Food & Drink
Breakfast each day, 1 lunch and 2 dinners during your Switzerland tour
Breakfast, lunch and dinner each day of your cruise including a spectacular gala dinner
Drinks package with dinner every night of your cruise
Excursions & Entertainment
Swiss Half Fare Card, permitting 50% discounted fares on free days for rail, boat and most mountain railway journeys
A superb choice of excursions
Not Included
Cancellation & Travel Insurance is not included in the price of the tour but can be arranged
Flights and Airport transfers
Itinerary
Arriving in Chur
Your incredible rail and cruise vacation begins today in the
Swiss city of Zürich. Arriving at Zürich's airport, make your way
to its station and use your First Class open railway ticket to
travel independently to Chur.
The journey takes less than two hours to complete, and as the
train pulls into the station, walk to our four-star hotel, where we
stay for the night. If time allows once you have checked in, you
could relax or get to know Switzerland's oldest town. Chur is
backed by mountains and has a colorful Old Town - a charming place
to wander. The center of Old Town is the idyllic Martinsplatz,
where you can find the Town Hall. Chur's 800-year-old cathedral and
the terracotta-fronted Bishop's Palace overlook the historic
center.
Return to the hotel this evening to meet the Tour Manager and
your travel group, and then we sit down to our first dinner
together. Overnight Chur.
Includes
Dinner
The iconic Glacier Express to Zermatt
A tour highlight awaits after breakfast this morning as we
board the world-renowned Glacier Express. On this spectacular
train, often called the "slowest express train in the world," you
can savor the scenery as we experience unparalleled views of
awe-inspiring mountain ranges.
We spiral up the mountains, crossing vast viaducts, burrowing
through tunnels and rising above the clouds. From our seats in
First Class, we enjoy the incredible views through panoramic
windows and do not miss a moment of the natural grandeur as lunch
is served at our seats.
Our destination is the resort town of Zermatt, our idyllic
base for two nights. This car-free village sits beneath the
striking Matterhorn and is filled with traditional wooden chalets
and alpine charm. After settling into our new surroundings, we have
dinner at the hotel this evening. Overnight Zermatt.
Includes
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Views of the Matterhorn from the Gornergrat Mountain Railway
Another amazing excursion awaits us after breakfast as we board
the Gornergrat Mountain Railway. After crossing the Findelbach
River, our train begins climbing steeply. Passing through short,
curved tunnels to gain height amongst the imposing mountain
landscape, we arrive at Riffelalp station, about halfway to the
summit of Gornergrat. Here, we admire the stunning views over the
valley.
Our railway journey then continues across a dramatic landscape
as we approach the summit station of Gornergrat. Here, we can enjoy
stunning views over 29 mountains in the Alps, including the
Matterhorn.
Back amongst the low-pitched roofs of Zermatt's timbered
chalets, an expert guide reveals the history of this charming
alpine resort. We dine independently tonight, and you could opt for
one of Zermatt's many restaurants, giving you a chance to try Swiss
favorites, such as fondue. Overnight Zermatt.
Includes
Breakfast
To Strasbourg, where we board our ship
We bid farewell to Zermatt and the Alps this morning, walking
to the train station after breakfast and joining the train to Visp.
Continuing onward from here, we proceed to Visp and Basel and then
follow the final leg of our rail route to Strasbourg, arriving in
the early evening. Here, we transfer by coach to the harbor, where
our luxurious ship awaits us.
As we step aboard our privately chartered ship, we are greeted
by our friendly crew with a welcome cocktail. After settling in, we
enjoy our first dinner onboard. With a drinks package included each
night of your cruise, you can unwind over a delicious meal, eagerly
anticipating the wonderful experiences ahead. We stay moored in
Strasbourg overnight to take full advantage of daytime sailing and
the autumnal riverside views later in our journey. Overnight
ship.
Includes
Breakfast, Dinner
Alsatian charm in Colmar or Strasbourg
After breakfast onboard, you have a choice of two excursions.
The first option is an excursion to Colmar, a picturesque Alsatian
town with fairytale charm. Stroll through cobblestone streets lined
with half-timbered houses and pretty flowers. Explore the historic
Old Town's maze of narrow alleys, discover quaint cafes and local
markets, and gaze at architectural landmarks like the Maison
Pfister.
Alternatively, stay in Strasbourg for a guided tour, taking in
the blend of French and German culture amidst cobblestone streets
and canals. Wandering through its medieval alleys, marvel at the
architecture of the iconic Notre Dame Cathedral and explore the La
Petite France district.
After your excursion, return to the ship for lunch, and then
the afternoon is free to explore Strasbourg at your own pace. Back
on board later this afternoon, we set sail on our first cruise
toward Rüdesheim while enjoying dinner onboard. Overnight
ship.
Includes
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Through the Rhine Gorge to Koblenz
This morning, we sail into Rüdesheim, famous for its white
wine. As you cruise through this section of the Rhine, the scenery
is rich with colors that capture the season's essence.
Stepping ashore, we travel through steeped vineyards aboard a
land train to the city center, where you have a choice of
excursions. You can savor the finest local varieties at a wine
tasting or visit Siegfried's Mechanical Music Cabinet and discover
Europe's largest collection of finely tuned mechanical instruments.
After your excursion, enjoy time at leisure to explore the town's
cobbled streets and see the half-timbered houses and the wine bars
in the Drosselgasse Alley.
Returning to the ship in time for lunch, we begin sailing
through the Rhine Gorge, renowned for its spectacular views. We
wind around bends surrounded by a mix of green and yellow
vineyards, ancient castles and picturesque towns. As we sail, we
hear the story of the legendary Lorelei Rock.
Arriving in Koblenz later this afternoon, we dock for the
evening on the Moselle promenade, where there's time to explore
before dinner. Overnight ship.
Includes
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Cochem in the heart of the Moselle wine trade
Our morning is spent cruising along the Rhine. You could soak
up the riverside views while having coffee or a drink on the Sun
Deck, admiring the scenery as our ship nears Cochem. After lunch on
the ship, we sail into the port of Cochem, where the Moselle Valley
surrounds us with rolling hills, wooden houses and the majestic
hilltop Cochem Castle - the Reichsburg.
Here, we enjoy a guided tour of the charming town, where we
discover the maze of slender alleys adorned with pastel-colored
buildings. After, you have time to explore further at your own
pace, perhaps discovering the quaint boutiques and wine cellars. In
the old quarter, you might like to seek out well-preserved sections
of the ancient town walls or the arts center housed in a former
monastery.
Return to the ship with time to relax before dinner this
evening. Overnight ship.
Includes
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
A tour and wine tasting in Bernkastel-Kues
We enjoy the scenery of the Moselle Valley this morning as we
continue our cruise toward the town of Bernkastel-Kues, where we
moor after lunch. The valley's vineyards climb the hillsides, while
half-timbered houses add to the enchanting atmosphere. A
sightseeing tour introduces us to its splendors.
Setting out with our knowledgeable guide, we visit the old
town, where the cobblestone streets are lined with traditional
German buildings with half-timbered facades. We also experience the
Market Square, a focal point of the town surrounded by colorful
buildings. A highlight here is St. Michael's Fountain, a
Renaissance-style fountain adorned with intricate carvings and
sculptures. We also enjoy an included wine tasting to sample the
local Bernkasteler Doctor, a specialty wine.
Following our afternoon of exploration, we return to the ship
for dinner. Overnight ship.
Includes
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The ancient city of Trier or Luxembourg
Waking to views of historic Trier, you have a choice between
two excursions this morning. The first option is to explore
Germany's oldest city with a local guide. The ancient streets are
known for their Roman ruins, medieval buildings and Baroque
churches, and we delve into this impressive history on our tour
featuring several UNESCO World Heritage sites. Visit the immense
Porta Nigra, which guards the entrance to the north of the city,
and St. Peter's Cathedral, with its intricate stone carvings and
stained glass windows. We also see the Church of Our Lady.
Alternatively, you could board the coach to the Grand Duchy of
Luxembourg. Immerse yourself in the local history and attractions
of one of the smallest countries in the world on a guided tour.
Rejoining the ship in time for lunch, we begin cruising once
more, this time bound for Königswinter. You can enjoy the changing
scenery from the Sun Deck before having dinner onboard this
evening. Overnight ship.
Includes
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The Drachenfelsbahn and Cologne
After a morning of relaxed cruising and taking in the romantic
views lining the Rhine, we arrive in Königswinter after lunch.
Here, we get another perspective from the Drachenfelsbahn.
This cog railway rises high into the forests, passing the
fairytale Drachenfels castle, whose name translates as "Dragon's
Rock," inspiring many dragon-related legends still heard today. We
experience wonderful vistas across the Rhine-Westphalia region of
Germany as we climb higher.
Back onboard later this afternoon, we continue our cruise
toward Cologne. As we approach the striking city, admire the
bridges that span the river and the imposing dual spires of the
UNESCO-listed Gothic cathedral. After dinner onboard this evening,
you can wander into Old Town to soak up the city's atmosphere,
admire the historical buildings and sample the famous Kolsch
beer. Overnight ship.
Includes
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tour conclusion
During this vacation, we have been captivated by some of
Europe's most breathtaking landscapes, from the spectacular views
aboard the renowned Glacier Express to cruising along one of the
continent's most serene waterways.
From Strasbourg's history to Rüdesheim's fairytale charm, we
immersed ourselves in fantastic culture. Cochem crowned the
Moselle's beauty, while Bernkastel-Kues' quaint streets were a
delight to discover. Exploring ancient Trier and the views aboard
the Drachenfelsbahn were a true highlight of the trip.
After breakfast, it is time to disembark for the final time and
say goodbye to our crew. We make our way to the railway station,
where we catch our train to Brussels. From here, we switch trains
and continue to London St. Pancras, where your memorable vacation
comes to an end.
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.
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 metres, and
come with additional touches that adds just that extra touch of
opulence.
With your first steps into your Deluxe Stateroom, the impressive
amount space is immediately apparent, with plenty of room for
luggage, clothes and souvenirs included in your 17.5 square
metres.
With your first steps into your Deluxe Stateroom, the impressive
amount space is immediately apparent, with plenty of room for
luggage, clothes and souvenirs included in your 17.5 square
metres.
We take great pride in the quality, comfort and elegance that
makes up the 16 square metres of our Classic Staterooms, which make
up the majority of our on board accommodation. And we recognise the
importance of having somewhere inviting to retire to after an
engaging day of cruising or excursions.
Starting in the riverside town of Königswinter, the Drachenfels
Cog Railroad carries passengers more than 700 feet to up to the top
of Drachenfels mountain. First operating in 1883, the line
originally used steam-powered trains before changing in 1953 to the
electric trains that continue to run today. This picturesque route
passes Drachenburg Castle, a palatial 19th-century villa boasting
romantic turrets and great views. On arrival at the top of the
mountain, you will see the ruins of Drachenfels Castle, a
12th-century fortress that was destroyed 500 years later.
Founded in 1994 as an efficient means of transportation between
London and the cities of France, Belgium, and the Netherlands,
Eurostar has been a welcome addition to the rail lines of Europe
for over 25 years. Eurostar offers direct city center-to-city
center connections to destinations like Paris, Lille, Brussels, and
Amsterdam and connecting routes that take travelers even further to
places like Strasbourg and Avignon. The train travels at high
speeds of up to 186 mph and offers a comfortable environment for
tourists and commuters alike on its modern trains.
Undoubtedly Switzerland's best-known train, the Glacier Express
winds its way through some of Europe's most dramatic and beautiful
scenery. Called 'the slowest express train in the world', the
panoramic carriages allow us to soak in the spectacular views as we
traverse incredible mountain passes, picturesque villages and
valleys between the popular alpine resorts of St Moritz and
Zermatt. Enroute, the train clings to the mountainsides on the
Albula Line, zigzags and spirals its way round mountains and over
bridges, and delves into the Rhine Valley - also known as the
'Swiss Grand Canyon'.
The views and places we visited were amazing. We found it difficult to have to carry our suitcases on and off many trains (4 in one day) and busses (2 in one day) when going to and from Switzerland as well as when we left the river cruise ship. We stayed one night in Davos, arriving late in the evening and leaving early in the morning. This was a beautiful hotel but we could not enjoy it. Our time in Switzerland was too short and we were exhausted. It was difficult to recover from this part of our journey. Our travel guide was quite nice and helpful but did not know aspects of this trip very well. Some changes were made and we were notified of them a short time before our trip. The river cruise was enjoyable and most excursions were worth taking. The meals on the river cruise were mostly tasty, although some lacked flavour. We enjoyed ourselves but would not take another trip like this one again because it was too exhausting. The company reserves the right to make changes in accommodations, hotels and schedules and some travel days are just too long. Receiving a clear itinerary with times would be helpful in deciding whether to take this trip or not.