Day 1 - By train to Düsseldorf
We depart St Pancras International by Eurostar, travelling in Leisure Select Class to Brussels. Here we change trains for our journey to Cologne, via Düsseldorf (Standard Class) where MS Helvetia is moored. Once our cruise begins, the pace of your holiday is set by you alone - you may wish to take part in shore excursions or explore independently, enjoy the facilities on board or simply take it easy. The choice is yours! We sail up the Lower Rhine through the evening to Cologne. (E,D)
Day 2 - Cologne and Koblenz
This morning we have the opportunity to discover Cologne. An optional walking tour is available, which features the cathedral and a brewery visit. Alternatively, perhaps visit the magnificent gothic cathedral or the Fragrance Museum. In the evening we reach Koblenz, which stands at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers. Koblenz is a principal seat of the Moselle and Rhenish wine trade. Enjoy an optional wine-tasting or explore the city this evening. (B,L,D)
Day 3 - The Rhine Gorge and Heidelberg
The landscape south of Koblenz is arguably the most scenic stretch of the mighty Rhine. Sit back and relax as MS Helvetia navigates its way past hilltop castles, perched above the lush vineyards. At St Goarshausen the Lorelei Rock of German folklore comes into view. From Mainz an optional coach excursion to Heidelberg, one of Germany's most visited tourist destinations, is available, before we arrive for the evening in Speyer. (B,L,D)
Day 4 - Kehl and Strasbourg
We arrive in Kehl, a small German town situated on the east bank of the Rhine, opposite the French city of Strasbourg. Though dwarfed by its famous neighbour, Kehl possesses its own unique charm. Here you will find a pretty church and lots of shops. A walk along the riverbank is a wonderful way to spend a leisurely afternoon. Alternatively, you may wish to join the optional excursion to Strasbourg, the self-proclaimed capital of Europe. (B,L,D)
Days 5-6 - To Luxembourg and home
We arrive in the Swiss city of Basel this morning and disembark MS Helvetia for a guided tour. We travel by train through the Eastern corner of France and into Luxembourg, where we overnight at the Grand Hotel Mercure Alfa. On Day 6 we leave Luxembourg and travel to Brussels where we join the Eurostar service to St Pancras International, with a complimentary meal and drinks served at our Leisure Select seat. (Day 5-B,D Day 6-B,E)
E = Eurostar meal, B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner
These meals, where shown, are included in the price of your holiday
