August 7th, 2024

Rhine River Cruise with a Scenic Lake Como Extension 

Embark on a luxury travel experience that captures the essence of Europe with an unforgettable Rhine River cruise. Navigate through the heart of Europe’s cultural and historical treasures, starting from the charming canals of Amsterdam to the breathtaking landscapes of the Black Forest in Germany, and ending with the majestic Alps of Switzerland. Along the way, you’ll uncover hidden gems, sip Kölsch in Cologne, explore medieval Heidelberg, and indulge in Alsace’s wine country.  

Experience a meticulously curated river cruise journey by Luxury Travel Advisor Rose Cacciatore, where luxury intertwines with rich cultural exploration along the enchanting Rhine. At TL365, we take pride in showcasing the expertise of our travel advisors through bespoke itineraries that reflect their passion for personalized travel experiences. 

Day 1: Boarding in Amsterdam 

Your journey begins in Amsterdam, where you step aboard your river cruise vessel. Settle into your luxurious cabin and prepare for an enchanting evening in the Dutch capital. 

Day 2: Discovering Amsterdam’s Hidden Gems 

Start your day with a captivating off-the-beaten-path Guided Walking Tour through Amsterdam’s cobblestone streets, uncovering the hidden treasures of this legendary city. Explore peaceful little islands created by the iconic canals, where the history of 17th-century Dutch life comes alive amidst shipyards, small businesses, and warehouses. During tulip season, you might opt for a visit to the Keukenhof gardens, where over seven million tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths bloom in a riot of color. Outside of tulip season, explore the historic windmills and charming Dutch houses of Zaanse Schans. Enjoy an overnight docking in Amsterdam, where you can explore the city by night. (Breakfast, Dinner) 

Day 3: Canals of Colorful Amsterdam 

Today, explore Amsterdam’s iconic waterways on a Guided Canal Cruise, gliding along enchanting 17th-century canals past historic merchant houses, picturesque bridges, and famous landmarks like the Westerkerk and Anne Frank House. In the afternoon, choose from a variety of Guided Optional Excursions or wander the colorful streets and canal houses on your own. As the day ends, your ship sets sail for Cologne. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) 

Day 4: Prost! Celebrate in Cologne 

Arrive in Cologne, Germany, and choose your adventure. Join a bike ride through the city with your Adventure Host, explore Cologne’s Jewish heritage sites on a Guided Walking Tour, or enjoy a classic city walk to see the famous twin-steepled Gothic cathedral. Spend your free time savoring a glass of Kölsch, a locally brewed pale lager, before enjoying live entertainment on board. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) 

Day 5: Eat, Drink, and Be Merry in Rüdesheim 

Sail through the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Rhine Gorge, marveling at ancient castles and the legendary Rock of the Lorelei. In Rüdesheim, hike through picturesque vineyards to the imposing Niederwald monument with your Adventure Host or embark on a musical adventure at Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum, home to a quirky collection of automated instruments. Enjoy live entertainment as you dock overnight. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) 

Day 6: Mainz and Heidelberg’s Wonders 

Cruise to Mainz, where you can walk through Heidelberg’s Philosopher’s Way with your Adventure Host, visit the Gutenberg Museum to see the history of printing come to life, or tour the magnificent Heidelberg Castle and its world-famous Great Vat. In the evening, your ship continues to Strasbourg. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) 

Day 7: Strasbourg’s Grand Cathedral and La Petite France 

Discover Strasbourg by bike or on a city sightseeing tour, visiting the Gothic cathedral with its stained glass, ancient murals, and astronomical clock. Spend time exploring the quaint cobblestone alleys, half-timbered homes, and pretty canals of the historic La Petite France district. Consider a Guided Optional Excursion to the historic Maginot Line or Alsace’s wine country. Alternatively, spend some free time exploring the city’s museums and picturesque streets. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) 

Day 8: Breisach and the Black Forest 

Explore the magical Black Forest on a full-day Guided Tour, visiting the Vogtsbauernhof Open-Air Museum and a local woodcarver’s workshop to see traditional cuckoo clocks. Enjoy tasting Schwarzwälder Kirschtorte, the famous Black Forest cherry cake. Alternatively, enjoy a historical wine tasting in a historic cellar in Breisach or explore Freiburg’s medieval city center. The evening sees your ship sailing towards Basel. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner) 

Day 9: Spectacular Views in Basel and Mount Pilatus 

Disembark in Basel and transfer to Mount Pilatus for a highlight excursion, ascending nearly 7,000 feet for panoramic views over central Switzerland. If the weather is bad, visit the Swiss Transport Museum instead. Continue to Lucerne for a guided walking tour of the city’s historic sites, including the poignant Lion Monument and Chapel Bridge. (Breakfast) 

Day 10: Journey to Lake Como via Lugano 

Travel to Lake Como with a stop in Lugano for a guided sightseeing tour of this charming Swiss city. Continue to the picturesque city of Como, where the lake’s serene beauty awaits. (Breakfast) 

Day 11: Legendary Lake Houses of Como 

Enjoy a Guided Walking Tour of Como’s historic center, including the Broletto and the Duomo. Experience a scenic boat ride on Lake Como, stopping at Bellagio for independent exploration before returning to Como. (Breakfast) 

Day 12: Free Day in Lake Como 

Spend your final full day exploring Como at your leisure. Whether you opt for a boat trip, a relaxing walk along the riverbanks, or shopping in the city center, be sure to savor the local Italian specialties at a nearby restaurant. (Breakfast) 

Day 13: Farewell to Lake Como 

Your magical journey ends with breakfast in Lake Como, leaving you with cherished memories of your Rhine River cruise adventure. (Breakfast) 

As your unforgettable journey along the Rhine River draws to a close, you’ll disembark with a treasure trove of memories and experiences. From the charming streets of Amsterdam to the medieval wonders of Heidelberg, and from the serene beauty of the Black Forest to the stunning landscapes of the Swiss Alps, every moment has been meticulously curated to provide you with the ultimate luxury travel experience. Your adventure has been filled with rich cultural exploration, culinary delights, and breathtaking scenery. At TL365, we believe in creating personalized travel experiences that linger long after the journey ends. Contact Luxury Travel Advisor Rose Cacciatore to start planning your next bespoke adventure and continue exploring the world in unparalleled style and comfort. 

Meet Rose Cacciatore, Luxury Travel Advisor: With 37 years of expertise, Rose Cacciatore, a luxury and river cruise specialist, designs exceptional and unforgettable travel experiences. Having explored over 40 destinations, she creates personalized river cruise itineraries and escorted trips tailored to each client’s desires. From initial planning to the return home, Rose ensures every detail is thoughtfully crafted, making your journey truly remarkable.