River Cruise Itinerary

1. Day 1
   DAY 1, Tuesday - Depart for the Netherlands

   Tue, Jul 29, 2025

   Depart for the Netherlands
2. Day 2
   DAY 2, Wednesday - Arrive in Amsterdam

   Wed, Jul 30, 2025

   Welcome to Amsterdam, Holland's sophisticated and modern capital; transfer to your hotel. The remainder of the day is free to discover the many cultural sites this delightful city has to offer. Tonight, attend an orientation meeting with your local host at the hotel at approximately 6 PM. We recommend that you select flights which arrive no later than 2 PM
   Overnight: Amsterdam
3. Day 3
   DAY 3, Thursday - Amsterdam City Tour

   Thu, Jul 31, 2025

   Today's panoramic tour of 700-year-old Amsterdam introduces you to both the old and the new sections of this city. View Amsterdam's port, one of the main harbors of Dutch East India Company during the Golden Age. Continue to the former Jewish quarter with its 17th century Portuguese Synagogue, and National Holocaust Names Memorial. Pass by the 19th century neighbourhood with its classic architecture, museums, and lively squares. Then, board a glass-top boat, and cruise the winding canals for an up-close view of the stately historic homes, 16th century warehouses, and charming churches with striking bell towers. The rest of the day is on your own
   Overnight: Amsterdam
   Meals: Breakfast
4. Day 4
   DAY 4, Friday - Rijksmuseum Tour & Cruise Embarkation in Amsterdam

   Fri, Aug 01, 2025

   This morning visit the world famous Rijksmuseum. On your guided tour you will explore the vast collection of works from some of the world's greatest artists including the Dutch masters Vermeer and Rembrandt. This afternoon transfer to the port for embarkation. After arrival formalities, rest and relax on board. This evening, meet your Cruise Director and enjoy dinner as it sets the mood for your delightful river cruise
   Overnight: River Cruise
   Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
5. Day 5
   DAY 5, Saturday - Morning at Leisure in Amsterdam, Afternoon Cruising

   Sat, Aug 02, 2025

   Morning is at leisure to relax on board, or pick up some last minute Dutch souvenirs. This afternoon, the ship sets sail south for Germany
   Overnight: River Cruise
   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
6. Day 6
   DAY 6, Sunday - Cologne City Tour

   Sun, Aug 03, 2025

   Sail on the legendary Rhine to Cologne, one of Germany's largest cities and capital of the Rhineland, arriving as you have lunch on board. Your walking tour of the city is highlighted by the soaring, twin-steeple Gothic cathedral that is the geographical and spiritual heart of the city. Known for its vibrant art scene, Cologne abounds with cafes, galleries, shops and taverns. After dinner on board, time to explore Cologne's vibrant nightlife before setting sail
   Overnight: River Cruise
   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
7. Day 7
   DAY 7, Monday - Morning in Koblenz & Afternoon Cruising

   Mon, Aug 04, 2025

   The ship docks this morning in Koblenz, located at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers. Join a walking tour this morning and free time to explore the Romanesque architecture and imposing defensive towers of this 2000-year old city. Or, join the optional tour to the dramatic Marksburg Castle, the only hill castle on the Rhine that's never been destroyed and has been continuously occupied for over 700 years. At noon, set sail and spend a relaxing afternoon on board, taking in the spectacular vistas as the ship cruises past castles perched on lofty cliffs, terraced vineyards and tiny villages. Pass the mighty Lorelei Rock on the eastern bank of the Rhine rising vertically from the waters, named for the siren "Lorelei" who bewitched sailors passing by. This evening, arrive in Rüdesheim, a lively village in the heart of the Rhine. After dinner, perhaps stroll along the lanes filled with quaint wine taverns
   Optional: Marksburg Castle Tour (AM)
   Overnight: River Cruise
   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
8. Day 8
   DAY 8, Tuesday - Morning Cruising & Afternoon in Speyer

   Tue, Aug 05, 2025

   Today, continue sailing towards Speyer. The ship will make a stop, where passengers may depart for the optional tour to Heidelberg, home to the oldest university in Germany and inspiration for some of the world's greatest writers and artists; tour the city and view the ruins of 12th century Heidelberg Castle before returning to the ship in Speyer. In the afternoon, stroll the lanes of this picturesque city founded by the Romans, with its prized red sandstone cathedral named a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Tonight, the ship sails for Strasbourg
   Optional: Heidelberg City Tour (AM)
   Overnight: River Cruise
   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
9. Day 9
   DAY 9, Wednesday - Strasbourg City Tour

   Wed, Aug 06, 2025

   A lovely day awaits you in the Alsace capital of Strasbourg, situated on the border of France and Germany, blending the cultures of both countries. Discover Strasbourg on the tour highlighting the city's center, designated a UNESCO World Heritage site. Of special note is the stunning Gothic Cathedral, an exquisite example of late Gothic architecture that houses one of the finest astronomical clocks in existence. See the magical La Petite France district, home to quaint shops and charming bistros, Place Kleber, a large historic square in the center of the city and Place Gutenberg, dedicated to the inventor of the printing press. This evening, return to the ship as you sail towards Breisach in the Rhine Valley
   Overnight: River Cruise
   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
10. Day 10
    DAY 10, Thursday - Breisach Walking Tour

    Thu, Aug 07, 2025

    Arrive this morning in the small city of Breisach that dates back over 4,000 years. On your walking tour along the cobbled streets lined with pastel-painted houses, it's hard to believe this town was mostly destroyed in WWII and then totally restored to its original beauty. View the towering Romanesque and Gothic St. Stephansmunster Cathedral, a highlight of the city. Late afternoon set sail for Basel. Tonight, at dinner, share wonderful memories of your Rhine journey and bid farewell to your Cruise Director
    Overnight: River Cruise
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
11. Day 11
    DAY 11, Friday - Disembarkation, Basel City Tour, Travel to Lucerne

    Fri, Aug 08, 2025

    This morning, disembark your ship and take a city tour of Basel, the geographical point where the Swiss, German and French borders meet. Explore the Kleinbasel district along the Rhine River, the old buildings and narrow alleyways of Grossbasel, and Tinguely Fountain, a unique fountain designed by the Swiss artist Jean Tinguely. Later, take a scenic drive to Lucerne. On arrival in the stunning lakeside Swiss city of Lucerne, get acquainted with the city on your walking tour to the sentimental Lion Monument, the 14th century Chapel Bridge and the cobbled streets of the well-preserved medieval Altstadt (Old Town)
    Overnight: Lucerne
    Meals: Breakfast
12. Day 12
    DAY 12, Saturday - Full Day in Lucerne

    Sat, Aug 09, 2025

    The day is yours to independently discover Lucerne, in the heart of central Switzerland. Wander through the lively streets, over bridges and along the picturesque lakeshore. Shop to your heart's content for chocolates, watches, the famous Swiss and German cuckoo clocks, or sip coffee at an outdoor café. Perhaps, join the exciting optional tour to the summit of Mt. Pilatus. Ascend the world's steepest cogwheel railway that winds up through lush meadows and sparkling mountain streams to nearly 7,000 feet. After time to admire the splendid panoramic views, descend by aerial cableway
    Optional: Mount Pilatus Tour (AM)
    Overnight: Lucerne
    Meals: Breakfast
13. Day 13
    DAY 13, Sunday - Locarno, St. Gotthard Tunnel, Baveno

    Sun, Aug 10, 2025

    Travel this morning to Locarno in southern Switzerland's Italian-speaking Ticino region on the northern Swiss shore of Lake Maggiore. Its Swiss-Mediterranean mix of cultures is similar to Italy's northern Lombardy region and reflected in its architecture. As you continue heading south traversing through the St. Gotthard Tunnel built under the Swiss Alps, glaciers and Alpine peaks, give way to palm trees. Arrive in the town of Baveno, on Lake Maggiore, one of Italy's most romantic destinations and check into your hotel
    Overnight: Baveno, Lake Maggiore
    Meals: Breakfast
14. Day 14
    DAY 14, Monday - Cross Lake Maggiore, Visit Isola Bella & Isola dei Pescatori

    Mon, Aug 11, 2025

    Today, cruise across Lake Maggiore to Isola Bella and visit the palace of Prince Borromeo with its splendid gardens and famous white peacocks. Continue to the charming Fishermen's Island (Isola dei Pescatori) that gets its name from the occupation of its inhabitants. Walk along the windy medieval streets and marvel at the incredible views of the lake. Sail back to Baveno with time to experience the delights of this lakeside town with its spectacular mountain views
    Overnight: Baveno, Lake Maggiore
    Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
15. Day 15
    DAY 15, Tuesday - Depart Italy

    Tue, Aug 12, 2025

    Transfer to the airport in Milan for your departure flight
    Meals: Breakfast

Inclusions

Price does not include airfare, departure or arrival transfers, airline taxes and fuel surcharges.

River Cruise Package Includes

Special Features

River Cruise Features & Amenities

Know Before You Book - High & Low Water

European river cruising has gained in popularity for very good reason. It's a relaxing and convenient way to experience Europe while enjoying the comfort of a deluxe ship. However, before making the decision to reserve your vacation, please be aware of potential conditions which may impact your cruise. While most of the time river cruises operate exactly as planned, weather conditions may result in high or low water levels which impact a ship's itinerary and, on occasion, render a ship unable to sail at all. On very rare occasions, other events such as heavy fog, a damaged lock, or an incapacitated vessel blocking the river, may impact a sailing. These events typically occur with little or no notice. In the event that a cruise is partially or completely impacted, the itinerary will be operated by deluxe motor coach, accompanied by a Tour Manager, with overnights in hotels. When the option exists, the operator will "swap ships" with another vessel sailing in the opposite direction, retaining the sailing experience. Crew, ship and cabin configuration may differ. The itinerary will include as many of the originally scheduled sightseeing features as possible, considering the travel time and distances required, as well as meals. While it is not possible to recreate the more leisurely comforts of sailings, we will endeavor to provide a comparable itinerary. These alternative services will be provided at no additional charge.

†Transfers are available for purchase for land only or on alternative flight dates

Not Included:
Optional shore excursions and gratuities.

Additional Information:
Cruise only price does not include arrival/departure transfers.

Milan Linate Airport transfers available at an additional cost.

Due to physical constraints and space limitations, wheelchairs and walkers are not allowed on motor coaches and/or river cruises. There are no elevators or chair lifts on board. Kindly refer to our Terms for additional information.

While sailing with Monarch Cruises, passengers are subject to the cruise's Terms & Conditions which can be viewed at: .

Know Before You Book - High & Low Water

European river cruising has gained in popularity for very good reason. It's a relaxing and convenient way to experience Europe while enjoying the comfort of a deluxe ship. However, before making the decision to reserve your vacation, please be aware of potential conditions which may impact your cruise. While most of the time river cruises operate exactly as planned, weather conditions may result in high or low water levels which impact a ship's itinerary and, on occasion, render a ship unable to sail at all. On very rare occasions, other events such as heavy fog, a damaged lock, or an incapacitated vessel blocking the river, may impact a sailing. These events typically occur with little or no notice. In the event that a cruise is partially or completely impacted, the itinerary will be operated by deluxe motor coach, accompanied by a Tour Manager, with overnights in hotels. When the option exists, the operator will "swap ships" with another vessel sailing in the opposite direction, retaining the sailing experience. Crew, ship and cabin configuration may differ. The itinerary will include as many of the originally scheduled sightseeing features as possible, considering the travel time and distances required, as well as meals. While it is not possible to recreate the more leisurely comforts of sailings, we will endeavor to provide a comparable itinerary. These alternative services will be provided at no additional charge.

Please note that the following inclusions may contain items that are only applicable when you purchase Land & Air. The brochure prices below are for Land Only - call us for our best deal.

Ship Information

Cabins

Life on Board

Questions & Answers