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Dive deep into the region’s culture, natural wonders, traditions, and historical significance in a one-of-a-kind experience along the Rhine. Delve into the region’s world-renowned museums. Along the way, indulge in Central Europe’s delicious cuisine.
Oh, and did we mention the scenery? Standing on the top deck of your ship, watching the ever-changing landscape turn increasingly dramatic, you’ll understand why people have been raving about the Rhine River Valley for centuries—and there’s definitely no cause to stop.
Jewish Heritage Program: Our Jewish Heritage Program is the only one of its kind on the rivers and allows you to dive into Central Europe's enduring Jewish legacy with visits to museums, memorials, synagogues, and more. Due to capacity restrictions, we recommend Jewish Heritage excursions be reserved in advance. Please note: Tours that fall on Saturdays will not operate due to Shabbat, and some sites may be closed during other significant events, such as Passover.
This day-to-day schedule is subject to change. Your official Schedule at a Glance will be delivered with your cruise e-documents 21-30 days prior to embarkation.
Select Cruise Direction
The embarkation location changes by cruise date. Please refer to the Dates & Pricing tab or your cruise ticket for specific departure details.
Day 1
Amsterdam (Embark)
Arrive at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol. If you have arranged a Uniworld arrival transfer, you will be greeted by a Uniworld representative and transferred to the ship.
Day 2
Amsterdam
The Netherlands’ largest city, Amsterdam has been an international port and financial center for 400 years, endowing it with a lively cosmopolitan feeling to match its historic architecture.
This evening, a special Captain’s Welcome Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you.
Masterpiece Collection · $80 per person
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$80 per person / €70 EUR onboard
The story of Anne Frank is well known. She was born in Frankfurt 1929 to parents Otto and Edith Frank, who fled Germany with their family a few years later in the hopes of finding safety in the Netherlands. When Amsterdam failed to provide protection from the Nazis, the Franks planned to emigrate once again. This plan ultimately failed, and the Franks went into hiding in a secret household annex. It was in this annex that Anne Frank hid with her family for more than two years during World War II and wrote her diary. Seeing the annex for oneself is another story entirely. The Secret Annex had become a museum, giving context to Anne’s plight and that of many families like hers in WWII. Today, you’ll follow a local guide on a walking tour and arrive at the museum and get a firsthand look at this poignant piece of history.
Strenuous
*Masterpiece Collection are optional experiences that go above and beyond our daily selection of included excursions and can be booked for an additional fee. Select Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences can be pre-booked. Please note that requests to pre-book must be made by calling our Reservations Team no later than 6 days prior to departure and are subject to availability. Some venues are limited in the number of guests they can accommodate. Guests can book onboard (space permitting) and pay in Euros. Pre-booked Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences are refundable up to 5 days prior to the cruise/tour start date; if inside of 5 days they are non-refundable. Select Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences require a minimum number of participants and are subject to cancellation (with full refund) if minimum is not met. Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences are non-commissionable. Prices are subject to change. Masterpiece Collection excursions may not operate if they occur on a holiday or if they require a minimum number of participants and that minimum is not met.
Masterpiece Collection · $80 per person
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$80 per person / €70 EUR onboard
Rivers of blue hyacinths curve through the trees, and great drifts of brilliantly hued tulips and daffodils carpet Keukenhof's 70-plus acres (32 hectares). It's probably the most spectacular flower garden in the world, and it's only open for a few weeks each spring. Gardeners plant some seven million bulbs on these grounds, making it a showcase for the Netherlands' legendary flower industry. There's more to see than just flowers, of course: There are intriguing exhibits in pavilions scattered throughout the estate, as well as concerts and activities for kids. Note: If you're thinking about buying bulbs from Keukenhof or perhaps having items shipped home, make sure the vendor provides the documentation necessary for the import of bulbs or plants into your home country. Rules for importing flower bulbs and plants vary from country to country.
Intermediate
*Masterpiece Collection are optional experiences that go above and beyond our daily selection of included excursions and can be booked for an additional fee. Select Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences can be pre-booked. Please note that requests to pre-book must be made by calling our Reservations Team no later than 6 days prior to departure and are subject to availability. Some venues are limited in the number of guests they can accommodate. Guests can book onboard (space permitting) and pay in Euros. Pre-booked Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences are refundable up to 5 days prior to the cruise/tour start date; if inside of 5 days they are non-refundable. Select Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences require a minimum number of participants and are subject to cancellation (with full refund) if minimum is not met. Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences are non-commissionable. Prices are subject to change. Masterpiece Collection excursions may not operate if they occur on a holiday or if they require a minimum number of participants and that minimum is not met.
Day 3
Rotterdam
Rotterdam is thoroughly modern—you’ll soon understand why it’s sometimes called “Manhattan on the Meuse”: The Maas Tower, the Montevideo, the Millennium Tower, and the spectacular Erasmus Bridge make for a dazzling skyline. Today, use it as a jumping point for the nearby city of Delft, where the Netherland’s traditional blue-and-white pottery is crafted by master artisans, and the colorful windmills of Kinderdijk.
Delft is noteworthy for several reasons: it's the birthplace of world-renowned painter Johannes Vermeer, ...
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Delft is noteworthy for several reasons: it's the birthplace of world-renowned painter Johannes Vermeer, home to the famous blue Delft pottery, and burial place of Dutch royalty. Explore picturesque Old Delft, with its tiny footbridges arching over peaceful, water-lily-filled canals, and visit Royal Delft to see the blue-and-white porcelain being made. After, we’ll take a break for free time, during which you can shop around and enjoy lunch at a local eatery on your own.
Next, we make our way to Kinderdijk to see the town’s famous collection of 19 still-functioning windmills erected in the 18th century. Most are ground-sail windmills (meaning their sails nearly touch the ground as they whirl) and each one was carefully situated to make sure one did not block another’s wind. Each windmill moves the water a little farther, pumping it from field to canal, from canal to river. Climb the steep stairs of a mill and look out over the quiet fields that would be underwater were it not for the ingenuity of the Dutch. These mills are kept in working order partly as a backup in case modern technology fails, and they were used as recently as WWII, when there was no fuel to keep newer pumping stations working.
Note: lunch will be on your own today.
Day 4
Arnhem
Arnhem, almost completely destroyed in WWII, has blossomed into a burgeoning Dutch city, with several museums, shop-lined streets and historic landmarks.
Immerse yourself in the history of the Dutch Royal family today as you visit the palace known as...
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Immerse yourself in the history of the Dutch Royal family today as you visit the palace known as “Het Loo.” Built at the behest of William of Orange in the 17th century, it was a summer residence for his family. Now, in the 21st century, the palace serves as a museum, so travelers and locals can marvel at the stunning decorations and gardens that were once reserved for Dutch royalty. The heritage of this building and the House of Orange-Nassau are excellently preserved, all of which you can learn about at your leisure as you admire the beautiful property.
Bike through Arnhem and its neighboring towns at the site of Operation Market Garden, a failed World War ...
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Bike through Arnhem and its neighboring towns at the site of Operation Market Garden, a failed World War II attempt by Allied forces to seize several Rhine river bridges in order to push back the Axis occupying soldiers.
We begin our ride at John Frost Bridge, named for the Lt. Col. leading the Allies’ 2nd Battalion of the battle. From there, this 27km route takes you through the major landmarks of the Battle of Arnhem. Following the south banks of the Rhine, you’ll reach the ferry at Driel and cross to Doorwerth Castle, which faced heavy damages in the war and has since been restored. From there, you’ll head to Heelsum, where the first paratroopers landed. You’ll stop in Oosterbeek, where you can visit the Airborne Cemetery and Airborne Museum “Hartenstein,” before following a very similar route to the one John Frost and his men took on your way back to Arnhem.
Day 5
Cologne
You have an array of choices for how you wish to experience Cologne’s many treasures. Those interested in history and architecture will want to stroll through the Old Town, featuring 12 stunning Romanesque churches. Guests interested in the city’s Jewish past are welcome to explore the centuries-old mikveh and Cologne’s Jewish quarter.
Meander through the narrow, cobbled lanes of Old Town, lined with traditional houses in every color and...
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Meander through the narrow, cobbled lanes of Old Town, lined with traditional houses in every color and a plethora of restaurants and pubs. Along the way, you will be treated to a traditional Krapfen, a jam-filled donut that is popular in the area.
One of the city's 12 Romanesque churches provides a castle-like backdrop to this quaint, riverside quarter of Cologne. Your local expert will take you to the Domplatte, the square where you'll find the Cologne Cathedral. Should you wish, you can head inside this Gothic building on your own to see the Shrine of the Three Kings, which is believed to contain the relics of the Magi, and the beautiful stained-glass windows. Otherwise, try asking your guide for tips on what to explore. Whatever your interests, our local expert knows all the best spots in town!
NOTE: On Sundays and Catholic holidays, tours inside the cathedral are not allowed, but individual visits are still welcomed.
Jewish Heritage
The history of the Jewish people in Cologne is nearly as long as the history of Cologne itself. The...
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Jewish Heritage
The history of the Jewish people in Cologne is nearly as long as the history of Cologne itself. The first documented mention of the Jewish community is a 321 AD edict allowing Jews to become members of the curia, a class of public office in the Roman Empire. The community fluctuated over the centuries, and eventually came to number around 19,500 people before Nazism and World War II. In the years since, the Jewish community of Cologne has slowly re-established itself, now numbering about 4,500 members. Because of its history, today’s synagogue calls itself “the oldest Jewish congregation north of the Alps.”
Meet our guides and head towards the site of the thriving medieval Jewish Quarter, where a museum dedicated to Jewish history is currently being constructed around the archeological site. Learn about some of the discoveries they’ve made from excavations here before moving on to the final portion of the tour, where you’ll meet a member of Cologne’s Jewish community at either a synagogue or at a memorial site known as Jawne. Formally the only Jewish grammar school in the Rhineland, Jawne is now a small, volunteer-run learning and center dedicated to the memory of a school head who saved many of his pupils from deportation and death.
Our Jewish Heritage Program allows you to dive into Central Europe’s enduring Jewish legacy with visits to museums, memorials, synagogues, and more. Capacity restrictions apply. If you are interested in participating any of our Jewish Heritage excursions, we strongly suggest that you reach out to info@uniworld.com at least 10 days prior to your departure to reserve your spot. Please note: some sites may be closed for inside viewing during the High Holidays, Passover, and other significant events.
Day 6
Sankt Goar
With your ship docked at a central location in the Rhine Gorge today, you’ll have the perfect opportunity to explore one of the region’s famous castles on foot.
This excursion offers an active twist on the classic Rhineland castle tour, perfect for those looking...
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This excursion offers an active twist on the classic Rhineland castle tour, perfect for those looking for an invigorating hike and who are comfortable with some uneven terrain. Your guide will take you through the ruins of this 13th-century fortress, so extensively fortified that it withstood attacks from the nearly 30,000-strong French army force. For an extra dose of medieval mystique, we’ll make sure to head into the tunnels underneath the castle during our visit.
Day 7
Sankt Goar, Mainz
The capital city of the Rhineland-Palatinate, Mainz is a vibrant and beautiful hub from which to explore the surrounding region.
Journey to tucked-away Idstein, where colorful half-timbers and stone alleyways lend the town an...
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Journey to tucked-away Idstein, where colorful half-timbers and stone alleyways lend the town an irresistible charm. As you stroll around with your expert guide, pay close attention to the buildings lining the streets; some of them have interesting embellishments that add a distinctive flair to Idstein’s iteration of the classic German half-timber. Before returning to the ship, we’ll sample a local favorite treat, the Idsteiner Nuss, a sweet confection comprised of nougat, walnuts, and chocolate.
Day 8
Speyer (Germersheim)
Expect the unexpected in Speyer, where ancient treasures harmoniously coexist with modern-day innovation. Enjoy a walking tour of Speyer, visit a a vinegar estate for a tour and tasting, or join our “Jewish Heritage” excursion to ancient centers of learning and religion.
Masterpiece Collection · $105 per person
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$105 per person / €90 EUR onboard
A motorcoach carries you to Heidelberg, sometimes called the most romantic city in Germany. It is home to the nation's oldest university, a charming baroque Old Town lying along the banks of the Neckar River, and extraordinarily beautiful castle ruins overlooking the town. Your tour will take you to the castle, with its views of the red-tile roofs of the town below, the handsome Old Bridge and the wooded hillsides beyond, and then into Old Town, where you will see the late-Gothic Holy Spirit Church, the Student Prison and the longest pedestrian street in Germany
Intermediate
*Masterpiece Collection are optional experiences that go above and beyond our daily selection of included excursions and can be booked for an additional fee. Select Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences can be pre-booked. Please note that requests to pre-book must be made by calling our Reservations Team no later than 6 days prior to departure and are subject to availability. Some venues are limited in the number of guests they can accommodate. Guests can book onboard (space permitting) and pay in Euros. Pre-booked Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences are refundable up to 5 days prior to the cruise/tour start date; if inside of 5 days they are non-refundable. Select Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences require a minimum number of participants and are subject to cancellation (with full refund) if minimum is not met. Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences are non-commissionable. Prices are subject to change. Masterpiece Collection excursions may not operate if they occur on a holiday or if they require a minimum number of participants and that minimum is not met.
Masterpiece Collection · $210 per person
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$210 per person / €185 EUR onboard
Learn the secrets of creative but easy cooking when you join a chef in his 300-year-old village home—one with a very modern kitchen—near Doktorenhof. Schnitzel and sauerkraut may include vinegar in their ingredients, but the four courses you help prepare for lunch today take vinegar in a whole new direction. You might use orange blossom vinegar to season prawns or cherry vinegar in chocolate tartlets. This is a friendly, hands-on experience with a chef who welcomes novices as well as experienced cooks into his kitchen. The menu will be determined by what's fresh and local, and your chef instructor is a master at pairing regional wines with regional foods. Sauté, sip, sample-and enjoy! Please note: In the event that this Masterpiece Collection experience falls on a Sunday, it will fall outside of the estate’s business hours and therefore not be offered.
Easy
*Masterpiece Collection are optional experiences that go above and beyond our daily selection of included excursions and can be booked for an additional fee. Select Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences can be pre-booked. Please note that requests to pre-book must be made by calling our Reservations Team no later than 6 days prior to departure and are subject to availability. Some venues are limited in the number of guests they can accommodate. Guests can book onboard (space permitting) and pay in Euros. Pre-booked Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences are refundable up to 5 days prior to the cruise/tour start date; if inside of 5 days they are non-refundable. Select Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences require a minimum number of participants and are subject to cancellation (with full refund) if minimum is not met. Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences are non-commissionable. Prices are subject to change. Masterpiece Collection excursions may not operate if they occur on a holiday or if they require a minimum number of participants and that minimum is not met.
Day 9
Strasbourg
See Strasbourg on foot with an insightful local expert, where this historic town with its cobbled lanes, half-timbered homes, giant stork nests and impossible-to-resist pastry shops will win your heart. Or take an in-depth look at the city’s rich Jewish history, which dates back an astonishing 2,000 years.
This evening, a special Captain’s Farewell Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you.
Masterpiece Collection · $160 per person
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$160 per person / €140 EUR onboard
Today, experience the myriad facets of the legendary Black Forest, famous for cuckoo clocks, cherry brandy and its extraordinary natural beauty. Join a guide for a walking tour of the Vogtsbauernhof outdoor museum, where farmhouses (some dating to the 17th century), sawmills, chapels and gardens show you how village people have lived and worked over the past 400 years. Enjoy a typical regional lunch and stop at the family-owned House of Black Forest Clocks, where you will learn how cuckoo clocks are made-and savor a slice of Black Forest cake, too. Following your Black Forest adventure, you will Reboard the Motorcoach and return to the ship.
Intermediate
*Masterpiece Collection are optional experiences that go above and beyond our daily selection of included excursions and can be booked for an additional fee. Select Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences can be pre-booked. Please note that requests to pre-book must be made by calling our Reservations Team no later than 6 days prior to departure and are subject to availability. Some venues are limited in the number of guests they can accommodate. Guests can book onboard (space permitting) and pay in Euros. Pre-booked Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences are refundable up to 5 days prior to the cruise/tour start date; if inside of 5 days they are non-refundable. Select Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences require a minimum number of participants and are subject to cancellation (with full refund) if minimum is not met. Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences are non-commissionable. Prices are subject to change. Masterpiece Collection excursions may not operate if they occur on a holiday or if they require a minimum number of participants and that minimum is not met.
Day 10
Basel
Ramble with your guide through the historic heart of Basel. Every historic square you see will hold a special charm.
Discover the tradition of Swiss brewing with a private experience at one of the oldest factories in...
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Discover the tradition of Swiss brewing with a private experience at one of the oldest factories in Europe. Visit Feldschlösschen Brewery, a stunning Swiss landmark with 145 years of history. Appreciate the building’s castle-like exteriors and original copper brewing barrels, sampling some of the country’s most popular brews along the way.
Please note: this excursion is available on the Amsterdam to Basel route of the itinerary only.
Basel is a moderately sized city with a population of just 170,000 and only a couple small skyscrapers...
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Basel is a moderately sized city with a population of just 170,000 and only a couple small skyscrapers to its name, but don’t let its size fool you—Basel is a thriving trade hub with a markedly international feel. It’s position at the borders of France and Germany makes it a popular place to work for commuters from three countries.
Start your local discovery with a unique ferry trip across the Rhine to Kleinbasel. The ferry works by natural current only. Take a scenic walk along the Rhine promenade for the best views of the Patrician houses and historic facades on the opposite Grossbasel side. Once we pass Mittlere Brücke and stop briefly for Basler Läckerli (a gingerbread cookie), we board the ferry again to cross over to Grossbasel.
We land at the famous Basel Münster and climb the stairs to the Münster terrace, where we’ll find a wonderful panoramic view of the city and its bridges, squeezed between the Black Forest and Jura Mountains.
Afterward, we’ll weave our way through cobbled streets and narrow alleys to see a variety of beloved local spots. Along the way, you’ll taste authentic regional treats.
Fasten your helmet, mount your bike and pedal with your guide along the Wiese River (a tributary of the...
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Fasten your helmet, mount your bike and pedal with your guide along the Wiese River (a tributary of the Rhine) through the lovely riverside forests hugging the border between Switzerland and Germany. This light, easy bike ride is a very pleasant way to get a closer look at the natural landscapes you sail by.
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences
Discover Basel from an unexpected perspective today as you embark on a city tour led by a current or...
Read More
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences
Discover Basel from an unexpected perspective today as you embark on a city tour led by a current or former member of the city’s unhoused population. Your guide will share insights into their everyday lives as they show you places most tourists miss. On this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, you’ll be privy to a uniquely immersive local experience, while also helping to support good work for some of Switzerland’s disenfranchised community.
This MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience supports Global Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities.
Our MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences support sustainable tourism, offering our guests opportunities to directly impact the communities we explore in a positive way.
Day 11
Basel (Disembark)
Disembark the ship. If you have arranged a Uniworld departure transfer, you will be transferred to EuroAirport Basel Mulhouse Freiburg airport for your flight home.
Optional, Interlaken Post-Cruise Extension
Enjoy a luxury stay in Interlaken amid the mountains of the Bernese Alps. One of Switzerland’s most beloved mountain getaways, Interlaken is always a good choice. Extend your Rhine River voyage here for three days to experience the best this enchanting city has to offer, with an expert local host to guide your way.
Optional, Interlaken Pre-Cruise Extension
Enjoy a luxury stay in Interlaken amid the mountains of the Bernese Alps. One of Switzerland’s most beloved mountain getaways, Interlaken is always a good choice. Extend your Rhine River voyage here for three days to experience the best this enchanting city has to offer, with an expert local host to guide your way.
Day 1
Basel (Embark)
Arrive at EuroAirport Basel Mulhouse Freiburg. If you have arranged a Uniworld arrival transfer, you will be greeted by a Uniworld representative and transferred to the ship.
Day 2
Basel
Ramble with your guide through the historic heart of Basel. Every historic square you see will hold a special charm.
This evening, a special Captain’s Welcome Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you.
Basel is a moderately sized city with a population of just 170,000 and only a couple small skyscrapers...
Read More
Basel is a moderately sized city with a population of just 170,000 and only a couple small skyscrapers to its name, but don’t let its size fool you—Basel is a thriving trade hub with a markedly international feel. It’s position at the borders of France and Germany makes it a popular place to work for commuters from three countries.
Start your local discovery with a unique ferry trip across the Rhine to Kleinbasel. The ferry works by natural current only. Take a scenic walk along the Rhine promenade for the best views of the Patrician houses and historic facades on the opposite Grossbasel side. Once we pass Mittlere Brücke and stop briefly for Basler Läckerli (a gingerbread cookie), we board the ferry again to cross over to Grossbasel.
We land at the famous Basel Münster and climb the stairs to the Münster terrace, where we’ll find a wonderful panoramic view of the city and its bridges, squeezed between the Black Forest and Jura Mountains.
Afterward, we’ll weave our way through cobbled streets and narrow alleys to see a variety of beloved local spots. Along the way, you’ll taste authentic regional treats.
Fasten your helmet, mount your bike and pedal with your guide along the Wiese River (a tributary of the...
Read More
Fasten your helmet, mount your bike and pedal with your guide along the Wiese River (a tributary of the Rhine) through the lovely riverside forests hugging the border between Switzerland and Germany. This light, easy bike ride is a very pleasant way to get a closer look at the natural landscapes you sail by.
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences
Discover Basel from an unexpected perspective today as you embark on a city tour led by a current or...
Read More
MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences
Discover Basel from an unexpected perspective today as you embark on a city tour led by a current or former member of the city’s unhoused population. Your guide will share insights into their everyday lives as they show you places most tourists miss. On this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience, you’ll be privy to a uniquely immersive local experience, while also helping to support good work for some of Switzerland’s disenfranchised community.
This MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience supports Global Goal 10: Reduced Inequalities.
Our MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences support sustainable tourism, offering our guests opportunities to directly impact the communities we explore in a positive way.
Day 3
Strasbourg
See Strasbourg on foot with an insightful local expert, where this historic town with its cobbled lanes, half-timbered homes, giant stork nests and impossible-to-resist pastry shops will win your heart. Or take an in-depth look at the city’s rich Jewish history, which dates back an astonishing 2,000 years.
Masterpiece Collection · $160 per person
Read More
$160 per person / €140 EUR onboard
Today, experience the myriad facets of the legendary Black Forest, famous for cuckoo clocks, cherry brandy and its extraordinary natural beauty. Join a guide for a walking tour of the Vogtsbauernhof outdoor museum, where farmhouses (some dating to the 17th century), sawmills, chapels and gardens show you how village people have lived and worked over the past 400 years. Enjoy a typical regional lunch and stop at the family-owned House of Black Forest Clocks, where you will learn how cuckoo clocks are made-and savor a slice of Black Forest cake, too. Following your Black Forest adventure, you will Reboard the Motorcoach and return to the ship.
Intermediate
*Masterpiece Collection are optional experiences that go above and beyond our daily selection of included excursions and can be booked for an additional fee. Select Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences can be pre-booked. Please note that requests to pre-book must be made by calling our Reservations Team no later than 6 days prior to departure and are subject to availability. Some venues are limited in the number of guests they can accommodate. Guests can book onboard (space permitting) and pay in Euros. Pre-booked Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences are refundable up to 5 days prior to the cruise/tour start date; if inside of 5 days they are non-refundable. Select Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences require a minimum number of participants and are subject to cancellation (with full refund) if minimum is not met. Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences are non-commissionable. Prices are subject to change. Masterpiece Collection excursions may not operate if they occur on a holiday or if they require a minimum number of participants and that minimum is not met.
Day 4
Speyer (Mannheim)
Expect the unexpected in Speyer, where ancient treasures harmoniously coexist with modern-day innovation. Enjoy a walking tour of Speyer, visit a a vinegar estate for a tour and tasting, or join our “Jewish Heritage” excursion to ancient centers of learning and religion.
Masterpiece Collection · $105 per person
Read More
$105 per person / €90 EUR onboard
A motorcoach carries you to Heidelberg, sometimes called the most romantic city in Germany. It is home to the nation's oldest university, a charming baroque Old Town lying along the banks of the Neckar River, and extraordinarily beautiful castle ruins overlooking the town. Your tour will take you to the castle, with its views of the red-tile roofs of the town below, the handsome Old Bridge and the wooded hillsides beyond, and then into Old Town, where you will see the late-Gothic Holy Spirit Church, the Student Prison and the longest pedestrian street in Germany
Intermediate
*Masterpiece Collection are optional experiences that go above and beyond our daily selection of included excursions and can be booked for an additional fee. Select Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences can be pre-booked. Please note that requests to pre-book must be made by calling our Reservations Team no later than 6 days prior to departure and are subject to availability. Some venues are limited in the number of guests they can accommodate. Guests can book onboard (space permitting) and pay in Euros. Pre-booked Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences are refundable up to 5 days prior to the cruise/tour start date; if inside of 5 days they are non-refundable. Select Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences require a minimum number of participants and are subject to cancellation (with full refund) if minimum is not met. Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences are non-commissionable. Prices are subject to change. Masterpiece Collection excursions may not operate if they occur on a holiday or if they require a minimum number of participants and that minimum is not met.
Masterpiece Collection · $210 per person
Read More
$210 per person / €185 EUR onboard
Learn the secrets of creative but easy cooking when you join a chef in his 300-year-old village home—one with a very modern kitchen—near Doktorenhof. Schnitzel and sauerkraut may include vinegar in their ingredients, but the four courses you help prepare for lunch today take vinegar in a whole new direction. You might use orange blossom vinegar to season prawns or cherry vinegar in chocolate tartlets. This is a friendly, hands-on experience with a chef who welcomes novices as well as experienced cooks into his kitchen. The menu will be determined by what's fresh and local, and your chef instructor is a master at pairing regional wines with regional foods. Sauté, sip, sample-and enjoy! Please note: In the event that this Masterpiece Collection experience falls on a Sunday, it will fall outside of the estate’s business hours and therefore not be offered.
Easy
*Masterpiece Collection are optional experiences that go above and beyond our daily selection of included excursions and can be booked for an additional fee. Select Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences can be pre-booked. Please note that requests to pre-book must be made by calling our Reservations Team no later than 6 days prior to departure and are subject to availability. Some venues are limited in the number of guests they can accommodate. Guests can book onboard (space permitting) and pay in Euros. Pre-booked Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences are refundable up to 5 days prior to the cruise/tour start date; if inside of 5 days they are non-refundable. Select Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences require a minimum number of participants and are subject to cancellation (with full refund) if minimum is not met. Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences are non-commissionable. Prices are subject to change. Masterpiece Collection excursions may not operate if they occur on a holiday or if they require a minimum number of participants and that minimum is not met.
Day 5
Mainz, Boppard
The capital city of the Rhineland-Palatinate, Mainz is a vibrant and beautiful hub from which to explore the surrounding region.
Journey to tucked-away Idstein, where colorful half-timbers and stone alleyways lend the town an...
Read More
Journey to tucked-away Idstein, where colorful half-timbers and stone alleyways lend the town an irresistible charm. As you stroll around with your expert guide, pay close attention to the buildings lining the streets; some of them have interesting embellishments that add a distinctive flair to Idstein’s iteration of the classic German half-timber. Before returning to the ship, we’ll sample a local favorite treat, the Idsteiner Nuss, a sweet confection comprised of nougat, walnuts, and chocolate.
Day 6
Boppard, Cologne
With your ship docked at a central location in the Rhine Gorge today, you’ll have the perfect opportunity to explore one of the region’s famous castles on foot.
This excursion offers an active twist on the classic Rhineland castle tour, perfect for those looking...
Read More
This excursion offers an active twist on the classic Rhineland castle tour, perfect for those looking for an invigorating hike and who are comfortable with some uneven terrain. Your guide will take you through the ruins of this 13th-century fortress, so extensively fortified that it withstood attacks from the nearly 30,000-strong French army force. For an extra dose of medieval mystique, we’ll make sure to head into the tunnels underneath the castle during our visit.
Day 7
Cologne
You have an array of choices for how you wish to experience Cologne’s many treasures. Those interested in history and architecture will want to stroll through the Old Town, featuring 12 stunning Romanesque churches. Guests interested in the city’s Jewish past are welcome to explore the centuries-old mikveh and Cologne’s Jewish quarter.
Meander through the narrow, cobbled lanes of Old Town, lined with traditional houses in every color and...
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Meander through the narrow, cobbled lanes of Old Town, lined with traditional houses in every color and a plethora of restaurants and pubs. Along the way, you will be treated to a traditional Krapfen, a jam-filled donut that is popular in the area.
One of the city's 12 Romanesque churches provides a castle-like backdrop to this quaint, riverside quarter of Cologne. Your local expert will take you to the Domplatte, the square where you'll find the Cologne Cathedral. Should you wish, you can head inside this Gothic building on your own to see the Shrine of the Three Kings, which is believed to contain the relics of the Magi, and the beautiful stained-glass windows. Otherwise, try asking your guide for tips on what to explore. Whatever your interests, our local expert knows all the best spots in town!
NOTE: On Sundays and Catholic holidays, tours inside the cathedral are not allowed, but individual visits are still welcomed.
Jewish Heritage
The history of the Jewish people in Cologne is nearly as long as the history of Cologne itself. The...
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Jewish Heritage
The history of the Jewish people in Cologne is nearly as long as the history of Cologne itself. The first documented mention of the Jewish community is a 321 AD edict allowing Jews to become members of the curia, a class of public office in the Roman Empire. The community fluctuated over the centuries, and eventually came to number around 19,500 people before Nazism and World War II. In the years since, the Jewish community of Cologne has slowly re-established itself, now numbering about 4,500 members. Because of its history, today’s synagogue calls itself “the oldest Jewish congregation north of the Alps.”
Meet our guides and head towards the site of the thriving medieval Jewish Quarter, where a museum dedicated to Jewish history is currently being constructed around the archeological site. Learn about some of the discoveries they’ve made from excavations here before moving on to the final portion of the tour, where you’ll meet a member of Cologne’s Jewish community at either a synagogue or at a memorial site known as Jawne. Formally the only Jewish grammar school in the Rhineland, Jawne is now a small, volunteer-run learning and center dedicated to the memory of a school head who saved many of his pupils from deportation and death.
Our Jewish Heritage Program allows you to dive into Central Europe’s enduring Jewish legacy with visits to museums, memorials, synagogues, and more. Capacity restrictions apply. If you are interested in participating any of our Jewish Heritage excursions, we strongly suggest that you reach out to info@uniworld.com at least 10 days prior to your departure to reserve your spot. Please note: some sites may be closed for inside viewing during the High Holidays, Passover, and other significant events.
Day 8
Arnhem
Arnhem, almost completely destroyed in WWII, has blossomed into a burgeoning Dutch city, with several museums, shop-lined streets and historic landmarks.
Immerse yourself in the history of the Dutch Royal family today as you visit the palace known as...
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Immerse yourself in the history of the Dutch Royal family today as you visit the palace known as “Het Loo.” Built at the behest of William of Orange in the 17th century, it was a summer residence for his family. Now, in the 21st century, the palace serves as a museum, so travelers and locals can marvel at the stunning decorations and gardens that were once reserved for Dutch royalty. The heritage of this building and the House of Orange-Nassau are excellently preserved, all of which you can learn about at your leisure as you admire the beautiful property.
Bike through Arnhem and its neighboring towns at the site of Operation Market Garden, a failed World War ...
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Bike through Arnhem and its neighboring towns at the site of Operation Market Garden, a failed World War II attempt by Allied forces to seize several Rhine river bridges in order to push back the Axis occupying soldiers.
We begin our ride at John Frost Bridge, named for the Lt. Col. leading the Allies’ 2nd Battalion of the battle. From there, this 27km route takes you through the major landmarks of the Battle of Arnhem. Following the south banks of the Rhine, you’ll reach the ferry at Driel and cross to Doorwerth Castle, which faced heavy damages in the war and has since been restored. From there, you’ll head to Heelsum, where the first paratroopers landed. You’ll stop in Oosterbeek, where you can visit the Airborne Cemetery and Airborne Museum “Hartenstein,” before following a very similar route to the one John Frost and his men took on your way back to Arnhem.
Day 9
Rotterdam
Rotterdam is thoroughly modern—you’ll soon understand why it’s sometimes called “Manhattan on the Meuse”: The Maas Tower, the Montevideo, the Millennium Tower, and the spectacular Erasmus Bridge make for a dazzling skyline. Today, use it as a jumping point for the nearby city of Delft, where the Netherland’s traditional blue-and-white pottery is crafted by master artisans, and the colorful windmills of Kinderdijk.
Delft is noteworthy for several reasons: it's the birthplace of world-renowned painter Johannes Vermeer, ...
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Delft is noteworthy for several reasons: it's the birthplace of world-renowned painter Johannes Vermeer, home to the famous blue Delft pottery, and burial place of Dutch royalty. Explore picturesque Old Delft, with its tiny footbridges arching over peaceful, water-lily-filled canals, and visit Royal Delft to see the blue-and-white porcelain being made. After, we’ll take a break for free time, during which you can shop around and enjoy lunch at a local eatery on your own.
Next, we make our way to Kinderdijk to see the town’s famous collection of 19 still-functioning windmills erected in the 18th century. Most are ground-sail windmills (meaning their sails nearly touch the ground as they whirl) and each one was carefully situated to make sure one did not block another’s wind. Each windmill moves the water a little farther, pumping it from field to canal, from canal to river. Climb the steep stairs of a mill and look out over the quiet fields that would be underwater were it not for the ingenuity of the Dutch. These mills are kept in working order partly as a backup in case modern technology fails, and they were used as recently as WWII, when there was no fuel to keep newer pumping stations working.
Note: lunch will be on your own today.
Day 10
Amsterdam
The Netherlands’ largest city, Amsterdam has been an international port and financial center for 400 years, endowing it with a lively cosmopolitan feeling to match its historic architecture.
This evening, a special Captain’s Farewell Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you.
Masterpiece Collection · $80 per person
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$80 per person / €70 EUR onboard
The story of Anne Frank is well known. She was born in Frankfurt 1929 to parents Otto and Edith Frank, who fled Germany with their family a few years later in the hopes of finding safety in the Netherlands. When Amsterdam failed to provide protection from the Nazis, the Franks planned to emigrate once again. This plan ultimately failed, and the Franks went into hiding in a secret household annex. It was in this annex that Anne Frank hid with her family for more than two years during World War II and wrote her diary. Seeing the annex for oneself is another story entirely. The Secret Annex had become a museum, giving context to Anne’s plight and that of many families like hers in WWII. Today, you’ll follow a local guide on a walking tour and arrive at the museum and get a firsthand look at this poignant piece of history.
Strenuous
*Masterpiece Collection are optional experiences that go above and beyond our daily selection of included excursions and can be booked for an additional fee. Select Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences can be pre-booked. Please note that requests to pre-book must be made by calling our Reservations Team no later than 6 days prior to departure and are subject to availability. Some venues are limited in the number of guests they can accommodate. Guests can book onboard (space permitting) and pay in Euros. Pre-booked Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences are refundable up to 5 days prior to the cruise/tour start date; if inside of 5 days they are non-refundable. Select Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences require a minimum number of participants and are subject to cancellation (with full refund) if minimum is not met. Masterpiece Collection Optional Experiences are non-commissionable. Prices are subject to change. Masterpiece Collection excursions may not operate if they occur on a holiday or if they require a minimum number of participants and that minimum is not met.
Day 11
Amsterdam (Disembark)
Disembark the ship. If you have arranged a Uniworld departure transfer, you will be transferred to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol for your flight home.
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