Day 1 - By train to Cologne
We depart St Pancras International by Eurostar for Brussels. As we travel in Leisure Select Class, a complimentary meal and drinks are served on board. On arrival in Brussels we change trains and continue to Cologne for an overnight stay at either the Hotel Euro Garden or the Four Points Hotel Central, close to the station. (E,D)
Day 2 - To Nuremberg
We leave Cologne and its great cathedral behind and head south by train today to Bavaria and the historic city of Nuremberg. We transfer from the station to our cruise ship for the next seven nights, MS Amadolce or MS Amacello. Once our cruise begins, the pace of your holiday is set by you alone - you may wish to take part in our included shore excursions, or explore independently, enjoy the many facilities on board or simply take it easy. The choice is yours! This evening a gala welcome dinner awaits. (B,D)
Day 3 - Medieval Bamberg
After cruising through the Main-Danube Canal, we moor early afternoon in Hassfurt from where we visit the medieval town of Bamberg. Fortuitously undisturbed by the bombing raids of the Second World War, Bamberg boasts a breathtaking cathedral, an old town that straddles the river and serpentine streets lined with charming houses and 18th century mansions. This medieval gem is a UNESCO World Heritage site, making it a delight to discover. Our cruise continues along the River Main. (B,L,D)
Day 4 - Würzburg
This morning we arrive in the town of Würzburg, known as the "Pearl of the Romantic Road", which is overlooked by the imposing Marienberg Fortress. During a guided tour of the city we visit the magnificent Prince-Bishop's Residenz Palace and we also see Würzburg's cathedral, one of the country's largest Romanesque churches. Great views of the city can be experienced from the 15th century Alte Main bridge, which spans the river. (B,L,D)
Day 5 - Miltenberg
We enjoy a leisurely morning on the ship, admiring the ever changing scenery and making use of the excellent on board facilities. Our next port of call is the quaint, old Franconian town of Miltenberg. Here we disembark for a guided walking tour of the medieval centre which reveals narrow cobblestone streets and gabled, half-timbered houses. We leave this pretty town behind and continue our cruise towards the mighty River Rhine. (B,L,D)
Day 6 - From the Main to the Rhine
We arrive this morning in Mainz at the confluence of the Rhine and Main rivers. Here you have the choice of two excursions. You may join a walking tour of Mainz which includes the Gutenberg Museum, home to the world's first printed Bible. Alternatively you may join an excursion to Heidelberg, Germany's oldest university town, whose red-walled castle overlooks the town and Neckar Valley. After our morning excursion, a short cruise sees us in popular Rüdesheim. Here we visit Siegfried's Mechanical Music Cabinet, which houses music boxes of all shapes and sizes. You may just wish to stroll along the lively Drosselgasse, with its shops and wine taverns but be sure to sample the local Riesling or Asbach Brandy. (B,L,D)
Day 7 - Cochem and the Moselle
After sailing overnight, we arrive early this morning in Cochem on the banks of the River Moselle. We visit the hilltop Reichsburg Castle which dominates the town and offers superb views of the river valley and the cobbled streets, squares and gateways of the old town below. This afternoon we relax on board as the ship navigates the quieter but equally picturesque Moselle. (B,L,D)
Day 8 - Bernkastel and Trier
Situated on both sides of the river, beneath the ruins of Landshut Castle, we cruise to picture postcard pretty Bernkastel, a town steeped in wine production. We enjoy a walking tour around the narrow cobbled streets which are lined with half-timbered houses before our cruise continues to UNESCO World Heritage protected Trier. Germany's oldest town boats some truly impressive monuments including the Porta Nigra, the massive Roman town gate, as well as a spectacular cathedral and a charming old town. (B,L,D)
Day 9 - Return to London
We disembark the ship and transfer to Trier station for the train to Luxembourg (Standard Class). We change trains here and head through the Ardennes to Brussels to join the Eurostar service to London. A complimentary meal and drinks are served on board before our arrival into St Pancras International. (B,E)
Please note that on certain departures this itinerary will operate in reverse, although the same destinations are visited. Please enquire when booking.
E = Eurostar meal, B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner
These meals, where shown, are included in the price of your holiday
