Charming Castles & Vineyards of the Rhine & Moselle with Switzerland

Welcome to Switzerland and the city of Zurich, the largest in the country and one of the most liveable in the world. Here, residents cycle along wide streets, relax in leafy parks and dine under the stars in open-air restaurants. It’s known as a global financial centre, but there’s also one of Europe’s most eclectic cultural scenes, world-class contemporary art and a fascinating history. 

Check in to your hotel in Zurich for an overnight stay.

Set off on foot this morning for a walking tour with a local guide. Zurich is one of the world’s great walking cities, with a flat centre, many pedestrian-only streets and historic bridges. Wander along the Bahnhofstrasse, the city’s main street that’s lined with glamorous boutiques and international flagship stores. Straddling both sides of the Limmat River, Zurich’s Old Town is a pleasant jumble of tiny laneways, cobbled squares and medieval buildings. Don’t miss St Peter’s Church, where the original 9th century foundations are still visible beneath the chancel and the iconic twin towers of the Grossmünster church. 

Then, travel through the impossibly pretty town of Lucerne. Perched on the edge of the spectacular Lake Lucerne, you’ll find exquisite medieval architecture, a 685-year-old wooden footbridge (the oldest in Europe), and glimpses of the majestic Alps in the distance.  

Continue your journey this afternoon through majestic Swiss landscapes to the capital, Bern. 

Lucerne, a compact city in Switzerland known for its preserved medieval architecture, sits amid snowcapped mountains on Lake Lucerne. Its colorful Altstadt (Old Town) is bordered on the north by 870m Museggmauer (Musegg Wall), a 14-century rampart. The covered Kapellbrücke (Chapel Bridge), built in 1333, links the Aldstadt to the Reuss River's right bank.

It’s back on the road this morning for your first taste of the Swiss Alps in the village of Gstaad. A favourite with the international jet set, Gstaad is renowned as a ski resort in winter and an outdoor adventure playground in summer. The first thing you’ll see is the magnificent Gstaad Palace hotel, which looks like a fairytale castle perched above the tiny village. Stroll through the chic shopping district and admire the jaw-dropping views. 

Wind your way back down to the lakeside town of Montreux. It sits on the edge of Lake Geneva, one of the largest lakes in Western Europe that is shared between Switzerland and France. Montreux is known as the Swiss Riviera for its stunning scenery, charming waterfront, perfect climate and chic lifestyle. 

Check in to your hotel for a two night stay.

Why not take the opportunity to wake early and walk along a section of the path that runs around the shore of Lake Geneva. There are beautiful views over the calm water, with boats bobbing at anchor and mountains in the distance. You can join the path right out the front of the hotel.

You’ll be thankful you made time for some exercise, because today you’re going to dive into the gooey cheese culture of Montreux. 

Enrich
Today’s Scenic Enrich:

All aboard the cheese train: Delight in a panoramic train journey to Château-d’Oex. Upon arrival you’ll view traditional cheese-making at the Restaurant Le Chalet. The restaurant makes its own cheese, and in a wonderful demonstration, the cheesemaker will transform milk into hard cheese right in front of your eyes. 

Transfer today to Basel where you will be greeted by your friendly crew and welcomed on board your Scenic Space-Ship.

Basel is a city in northwestern Switzerland on the Swiss, French and German borders. It is located on the bend of the River Rhine and benefits from a Mediterranean climate. It is the third most populated city in Switzerland and has been the commercial hub for Swiss arts and culture since the Renaissance. In 1967 the people of Basel voted to acquire two paintings by Picasso, who was so moved by the Basel people that he donated 3 paintings and a study to the city's Kunstmuseum (Museum of Fine Arts). Visit the Augusta Raurica, one of the largest Roman archaeology parks in Switzerland, and enjoy a river crossings over the River Rhine by non-motorised ferries. During the summer months, time is spent outdoors, either swimming in the River Rhine, dining al fresco, enjoying open air concerts, cinema, street parties and festivals. Basel is home to over 20 restaurants that have won GaultMillau or Michelin awards, and boasts Switzerland's largest collection of theatre shows, including modern contemporary dance, touring and puppetry theatre.

We will arrive in Breisach this morning. Located between the Rhine River and the Black Forest, Breisach is a food and wine destination that shares its border with the Alsace region. It was almost destroyed during World War II but was meticulously rebuilt with its traditional cobbled streets and pastel houses. 

Freechoice:
Choose from a wonderful selection of Scenic Freechoice experiences:

Excursion to Colmar: Take an excursion over the French border to the colourful town of Colmar, a unique Alsatian town that is often referred to as ‘Little Venice' for its network of canals and bridges, originally used by fishermen and market gardeners. These quaint waterways are lined with half-timbered houses in an array of pastel colours, and its town centre is charming with cobblestoned streets and traditional architecture.

Wine tasting at Kaiserstuhl: Volcanic rocks make up a large part of the central and western Kaiserstuhl region thanks to numerous volcanic eruptions more than 16 million years ago. Because of its loose covered volcanic soils, the Kaiserstuhl is known as a very good wine-producing region. During your visit, sample some of these delicious drops.

Excursion to Freiburg: Located on the edge of the Black Forest, Freiburg is a picturesque city. Enjoy a guided walking tour through the lively medieval town centre to see the Freiburg Minster, a 13th century cathedral that was one of few in Germany to survive WWII bombings.

Chateau du Haut-Koenigsbourg: Sitting on a hilltop in the Alsace region of France, this ‘royal castle' was constructed in the 12th century but was burnt down during the Thirty Years War in the 1600s. Left for 200 years in ruins, the castle was restored in the early 20th century and was classified as an historical monument. Visiting the castle will feel like stepping back to the Middle Ages.

Today your Space-Ship will dock in Ratstatt, your base for today’s explorations. Set on the northern edge of the Black Forest region, it has a well-preserved Baroque centre and a vibrant modern arts and theatre scene. After a morning luxuriating on board your Scenic Space-Ship, set off on an afternoon of sightseeing.

Freechoice:
Decide how you want to spend your day with these Scenic Freechoice options.

Excursion to Baden Baden: This luxurious town was a favoured summer escape during the Belle Epoque and is World Heritage-listed as part of the Great Spa Towns of Europe. It oozes relaxation, features tranquil green spaces, picturesque public gardens and grand historical architecture. Enjoy a walking tour, taking in the opulence of the town, including its famous casino and the remains of Roman baths.

Visit Schloss Favorite: This grand palace was originally built as a hunting lodge and summer palace for Margravine Sibylla Augusta, who ruled Baden-Baden in the early 18th century after her husband Louis William, Margrave of Baden-Baden, died of a war injury. The palace was only used for several weeks each year, and houses a large collection of fine porcelain. It is the oldest of the German ‘porcelain palaces' and the last still intact.

Walking tour of Strasbourg: Enjoy a guided walking tour of the charming town of Strasbourg, seeing many of the most important sights of the city including the Cathedral, Petit France, the Grand Ile, and its many half-timbered houses and beautiful canals. Strasbourg is located on the border of France and Germany and ownership of the town has changed hands many times between the two countries. Due to this, Strasbourg is a unique mixture of both French and German architecture and culture. Drive to Strasbourg passing by many notable sites including the European Parliament. Please note: this is an active walk.

Your Scenic Space-Ship will dock in the charming town of Rüdesheim this morning. Surrounded by steep vineyards that have been cultivating wine for a staggering two millennia, Rüdesheim is filled with half-timbered houses lining cobbled streets, quaint shops selling trinkets such as traditional Christmas ornaments and cuckoo clocks, as well as a smattering of wine taverns and open-air beer gardens.

Freechoice:
Explore Rüdesheim your way with your choice from today's Scenic Freechoice options.

Siegfried's Musikkabinett Museum: From the pier, take a mini train through the quaint winding streets of Rüdesheim to Siegfried's Musikkabinett Museum where a local guide will introduce you to the weird and wonderful mechanical musical instruments. Afterwards, enjoy free time to wander around town or take the cable car up to the Niederwald Monument, where you'll have breathtaking views over the river. This 17th century statue was built to commemorate the unification of Germany.
Hike & Cable Car: Join a local guide for a hike through the rolling vineyards of Rüdesheim, a wine region famous for its Riesling, and enjoy spectacular views of the countryside and Rhine below. After your hike, board the cable car to return to town.

You’ll arrive in Cochem this morning. A historic gem resting on the banks of the Moselle River, Cochem appears straight out of a medieval romance. The traditional town is nestled on the riverbanks, with pastel-coloured buildings, half-timbered houses, cobbled laneways and an enchanting medieval hilltop castle surrounded by sloped vineyards. 

Freechoice:
Experience Cochem on foot or by bike with your choice from today’s Scenic Freechoice experiences:

Walking tour of Cochem: Take a short transfer to Reichsburg Castle, which dates to the Middle Ages. Enjoy a guided tour of the castle, which features a knight’s hall, trophy room and cellars, before wandering down to the Old Town, seeing many historic buildings along the way.

Cycling tour of Cochem: Join a local guide and hop on one e-bike to explore the town of Cochem and the surrounding region. See the impressive Reichsburg Castle towering above the city and ride through winding streets past half-timbered houses.

Return to your luxurious Scenic Space-Ship this afternoon and relax with a regional wine or beer in the Panorama Lounge & Bar as you cruise along the Moselle. If you feel like really winding down, head to the Wellness Centre for a relaxing massage^. 

Your Scenic Space-Ship will dock in Bernkastel today. A wonderfully preserved riverside town, Bernkastel is home to an atmospheric market square with buildings that date to the 13th century. You’ll find one of the world’s most famous Riesling vineyards, Bernkasteler Doctor, and the ruins of Landshut Castle, where archaeological remains from the 4th and 5th centuries were discovered in 2012. 

Freechoice:
Elevate your Bernkastel visit with your choice of the following Scenic Freechoice experiences:

Walking Tour of Bernkastel: Your expert local guide will explain the local architecture and culture of Bernkastel, and you’ll also have some time to discover the town on your own. Highlights include perfectly preserved half-timbered houses and the Renaissance-style Rathaus (Town Hall).

Wine tasting along the Moselle: The fertile banks of the Moselle River are home to a plethora of vineyards. Learn about the varieties grown here on a tour where you’ll sample some of the delicious drops, including Riesling, for which the region is best known.

Perhaps enjoy a leisurely morning starting with coffee in your suite, delivered by your personal butler, as you start your day in Koblenz, a melange of French and German cultures and one of Germany’s oldest cities. Located where the Rhine and Moselle meet, Koblenz has a history spanning 2,000 years. Start your day with a coffee delivered to your suite by your butler, followed by breakfast in Crystal Dining. 

Freechoice:
Enhance your time in Koblenz with your choice from the following Scenic Freechoice activities:

Koblenz walking tour: Join your guide through one of the oldest cities in Germany. Explore the Florinsmarkt, the former political and economic centre of the city. On your way through the winding streets of the old town, you’ll see impressive townhouses, charming squares and historic churches.

Burg Eltz guided tour: Considered one of the most magical castles in Germany, Burg Eltz is perched on a rocky outcrop deep in a valley of the Eltz Forest. Unscathed by wars that have crumbled so many other castles in Germany, Burg Eltz is the epitome of a fairytale castle with eight towers and turrets. It has been under the ownership of the same family for more than 850 years and contains many original furnishings and interiors to this day, including 15th century murals. Inside the castle walls, you can visit the treasury and armoury, which exhibits nine centuries of artefacts.

Koblenz biking tour: Ride along the Moselle and Rhine River on your guided cycling tour using e-bikes*. Let your bike do most of the hard work while you glide past many city attractions and cross over the Rhine River twice, while learning the historic background of Koblenz from your expert local guide.

After a delicious breakfast, bid farewell to your newfound friends. You’ll be transferred to Frankfurt airport where you’ll depart for home with stories for life.

Please book your flight to depart out of Frankfurt after 11:30 AM.

 This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions.