Grand Cruise of the Rhine Gorge, Medieval Germany & Switzerland - MS George Eliot

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Grand Cruise of the Rhine Gorge, Medieval Germany & Switzerland - MS George Eliot

18 Days - River Cruises

Holiday Highlights

Explore some of Europe’s most interesting towns and cities, including Strasbourg, Koblenz, Cologne, Andernach, Rüdesheim, Mainz, Miltenberg, Wertheim, Würzburg, Rothenburg, Bamberg, Nuremberg and Lucerne.
Admire the natural beauty of the Rhine Gorge and Boppard river bend, and the engineering feat of the Main-Danube canal with its series of locks.
Drive through the folkloric scenery of the Black Forest on a visit to the idyllic Titisee, and along the Romantic Road to medieval Rothenburg. 
See stunning mountain vistas on a railway journey up the Bernese Oberland Mountain range. 
Enjoy a violin soloist, folklore show and Bavarian music performance on board.

What's Included

Prices are per person, based on two people sharing a twin cabin with a limited number of sole occupancy cabins available on all decks, at the relevant supplement. The price includes:
All nights of your cruise in your choice of luxury cabin or suite
All meals on board, including welcome cocktails and the Captain’s Dinner
Complimentary on-board tea and coffee
Complimentary on-board Wi-Fi (connection speeds may vary) 
Return scheduled flights from a selection of regional airports 
Airport transfers and coach travel as mentioned
All visits and excursions as mentioned
Five-star service from an English-speaking crew and knowledgeable local guides
Services of a Riviera Travel Cruise Director and Concierge

Itinerary

Day 1

Arrive at your five-star cruise ship moored in Basel. Your professional, English-speaking crew will welcome you on board, show you to your cabin and help you familiarise yourself with all aspects of this floating boutique hotel.

Day 2

Lucerne What an impressive kick-off to our cruise, as today promises to be a visual feast. We’ll take the short drive to Lucerne, spectacularly nestled among mountain views. This chic city is by far Switzerland’s most beautiful and has been attracting well-heeled visitors for two centuries - our very own Queen Victoria among them.  A must-do is a brisk stroll along the Chapel Bridge symbol of the city, a unique and covered wooden walkway crossing the lake, supported by stilts, lined with flower-filled window boxes and a superb way to absorb Lucerne’s rather regal atmosphere. You’ll be transported back in time as you take in the views that have charmed royalty and travellers alike.  Bernese Oberland  The scenery becomes ever more dramatic, and as you enter the Bernese Oberland in central Switzerland, it becomes quite literally, breathtaking! This is the majestic Alpine heart of Europe, boasting some of the planet’s most sublime mountain landscapes. Mendelssohn, the composer, once declared it as ‘the most wonderful of all in this unbelievably beautiful country’. He wasn’t wrong.  Prepare to be awestruck as you take in the legendary snow-draped peaks of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau; this is quintessential Switzerland at its absolute best. We’ll ascend by mountain railway for even more extraordinary vistas, with crystal-clear lakes mirroring the grassy meadows and emerald forests below - this magical landscape is sure to enchant you.  Later we’ll descend again by mountain railway, soaking up the views before making our way by coach back to our ship in Basel. Please note: temperatures will be significantly lower at altitude, even during the summer months, so it’s advisable to pack suitable clothing. While lunch is not included on this full-day excursion, the ship will offer a packed lunch.  Cap off this spectacular day with another exquisite dinner in the ship's restaurant. Included experiences Tour of the Bernese Oberland & visit to Lucerne.

Day 3

Breisach Relax this morning on board whilst we sail to the ancient town of Breisach, whose historic heart is surrounded by stone ramparts and dominated by the impressive Saint Stephan’s Cathedral. Black Forest & Titisee This afternoon you drive through some of Central Europe’s most stunning scenery – the Black Forest Mountains. This is a fabled landscape of rugged valleys, white-water rivers, cascading waterfalls and rolling hillsides covered with huge, densely packed pine trees – exactly as you expect it to be. Our destination is the idyllic village of Titisee, nestling on the shores of its crystal-clear lake. As the sun sets and the riverside lights begin to twinkle, enjoy the views through the restaurant’s panoramic windows during tonight's excellent dinner. Afterwards retire to the lounge to enjoy tonight's live performance of popular music spanning the years by a highly talented violin soloist, before we slip our moorings to commence our cruise towards Strasbourg. Included experiences Visit to Breisach, drive through the Black Forest with visit to Titisee & live violin soloist.

Day 4

Strasbourg  This morning, we have arrived in France and Strasbourg, capital of the Alsace region. After a hearty breakfast, we embark on a stroll through the charming 16th-century old town; straight from the pages of a storybook, it’s a real-life maze of narrow streets and canals adorned with timber-framed houses and fancy portals.   Prepare to be wowed by the Gothic grandeur of Notre-Dame Cathedral, the multi-towered Ponts Couverts - covered bridges - and the pretty Petite France quarter with pastel-painted houses lining the canals. And let's not forget the wine. Alsace wine is famed the world over, so don't resist the urge to linger in an Alsatian café or two to sample a crisp Riesling or the spicy kick of Gewürztraminer.  During lunch, our vessel glides away from our mooring as we commence an afternoon’s scenic cruising. Flop onto a sun lounger on the sun deck or retire to the shady comfort of the lounge to chat over a coffee with newly made friends.  As evening falls, thoughts turn to what might be on the menu tonight, so head to the relaxed ambience of the ship’s restaurant as the chef presents another delicious meal. In the bar toast the day’s adventures with newly made friends as we arrive in Speyer later tonight.  Included experience Guided tour of Strasbourg.

Day 5

Speyer We’ll remain moored in Speyer this morning to enjoy a guided tour of this medieval gem, founded by the Celts and one of Germany’s oldest cities, celebrated for its illustrious past.  The Imperial Cathedral steals the show—a UNESCO World Heritage Site, a Romanesque masterpiece, and the resting place of Holy Roman emperors and German kings. The marble-floored crypt, a serene space adorned with pastel-coloured pillars, is the resting place of many Holy Roman emperors and German kings.  Another landmark is the neo-Gothic Gedächtniskirche, built to commemorate the 1529 ‘Protestation at Speyer’, a pivotal moment in Protestant history when a group of Martin Luther’s followers rejected his imperial ban – and his religious followers subsequently known as Protestants.  Returning on board for lunch, we’ll recommence our cruise, so sit back and watch the scenery slipping past through the panoramic windows. Soak up the rolling hills and fertile vineyards, home to the Liebfraumilch wines of the region, oxbow lakes, long deserted by the river flow and now havens for bird and wildlife.  Captain’s Dinner Tonight on board, we’ll be served a special treat - the 'Captain's Dinner,' a culinary journey featuring specialties from the regions we've explored. Dress to impress – if you fancy it; it’s the perfect way to celebrate the flavours of our cruise! During dinner our vessel arrives in the classic Rhine wine village of Rüdesheim, so you might fancy wandering ashore to enjoy a digestif – perhaps a glass of Asbach, the famous brandy distilled locally.   Included experience Guided tour of Speyer.

Day 6

Rüdesheim Our ship is moored in Rüdesheim, amidst crooked houses cascading down wooded hillsides and terraced vineyards. The morning unfolds with a walking tour through the bustling marketplace, (you’ll struggle not to fall for its charms), stopping to admire the half-timbered Klunkhardshof and formidable Bromserburg Castle, standing guard since 1275.  Rhine Gorge This afternoon we’ll witness a real highlight of the cruise, the dramatic Rhine Gorge. Steep vineyards give way to almost vertical rocky outcrops, towering above the sweeping valley sides. Sailing past Saint Goar and its many ruined castles, the legends of this historic river come to life, and the infamous Loreley Rock, where beautiful nymphs supposedly lured sailors to their demise, adds a touch of mystique to our journey.  Relax on the sun deck as our captain skilfully navigates the ship through the huge looping bend at Boppard – one of the river’s most captivating turns. Keep an eye out for the mighty Marksburg Castle too, an impressive fortress dating back to the 13th century. Koblenz It’s not long before we arrive in picturesque Koblenz, founded by the Romans, and strikingly located at the confluence of the Rhine and its sister, the Moselle. Wander Koblenz’s maze of medieval buildings in the Altstadt – old town – with traditional little shops and delicious aromas wafting from its classic Rhineland cafés.  On our guided tour of this town, historic buildings emerge at every turn: you’ll see the former mint, the Four Towers with their ornamental 17th-century turrets and several fascinating squares and churches, including the 9th-century Basilica of Saint Kastor. The waterfront along the Moselle is stunning too, with the medieval Balduin Bridge, staggeringly still in use.  If you manage to resist the tempting cakes on offer from the beckoning pavement cafés, then you’ll be ready for tonight’s meticulously prepared dinner on board. Afterwards, immerse yourself in the lively sounds of Rhenish folk music with a live performance featuring traditional instruments - a fitting conclusion to a day rich in history and culture.  Included experiences Cruise through Rhine Gorge, guided tour of Rüdesheim, guided tour of Koblenz & live folk music performance. 

Day 7

Free time sailing Early birds will witness our departure from Koblenz as we set sail towards Cologne before we settle in for a leisurely morning on board as we drift through this lovely Rhineland scenery, past quaint riverside towns with pretty waterfronts and carefully tended vineyards. See the famous ruined bridge at Remagen, which was captured intact by the Allies towards the end of the Second World War, allowing thousands of troops to cross into Germany’s heartland and the forested Siebengebirge - Seven Mountains – a cluster of ancient volcanic hills. Rumour has it they inspired many of the Brothers Grimm’s legends, including Snow White.  Cologne During lunch, we arrive in historic Cologne, where you’ll have a free afternoon to explore. Perhaps visit the cathedral, the largest Gothic structure on earth. It has Europe’s most intricate stained glass, (a labour of 600 years!) and when work was finally complete, it was the largest building on earth, until eclipsed by the Eiffel Tower.  Or maybe you’ll opt to wander in the vibrant and attractive old town, beautifully restored and boasting a plethora of excellent shopping and cosy bars, some of which still traditionally brew their own beer.  This evening, the chef presents another superb menu and it’s the perfect moment to reflect with your fellow diners on some of the wonderful places you’ve seen so far – with plenty more to in store!     Included experience Visit to Cologne

Day 8

Free day in Cologne After a lazy breakfast there’ll be the opportunity to recharge and reset today with time to yourself to get further acquainted with this beautifully grand and historic city. Your tick list might include a wander round the Sculpture Park or indulging your sweet tooth at the famous Chocolate Museum. Take a ride on the city’s cable car as you soar over the Rhine with dazzling views of the city and beyond. Or perhaps while away a few peaceful hours in the Museum Ludwig pondering the colourful canvases in its modern art collections then head to the Flora Botanic Hardens to lose yourself in the vibrant blooms and exotic plants. Don’t forget to stop for some refreshment with a glass or two of craft beer in the quirky Belgian Quarter too, with its cool bars and laid-back feel.  Later return to the ship and relax on board (you’ll be in the swing of things by now!) before the chef wows us once again with another exquisitely presented menu.  Included experience Visit to Cologne.

Day 9

Cologne Today will be packed with discovery as you disembark after breakfast for a guided walking tour through Cologne. The cathedral's spires dominate the maze of cobbled streets as we wander the old town with our guide who’ll weave tales that bring the city's past to life.  Enter inside the walls of the Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece and the largest Gothic church in Northern Europe. A miraculous survivor of Second World War bombing and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, it took and incredible six centuries to complete this masterpiece. Among its many treasures are the stained-glass windows and gilded sarcophagus rumoured to hold the remains of the three kings from the Nativity story. Explore the vibrant and meticulously restored old town, where an abundance of shopping opportunities beckon - as well as plenty of bars, inviting you to try the local brew!  After some free time, return to the ship to enjoy lunch and relax on board as our journey continues. As we leave Cologne’s imposing skyline behind, head up onto the sun deck; whether you choose to lose yourself in a good book or cool off in the splash pool, the views promise to be nothing short of spectacular. Freshen up in your cabin before reconvening with your fellow cruisers in the bar for your favourite aperitif. During tonight’s dinner we arrive in Andernach.  Included experience Guided tour of Cologne. 

Day 10

Andernach You’ll feel the history in Andernach, founded by the Romans in 12BC on the site of an old Celtic settlement then seized by the Franks in 450 AD who set up a royal court within its old fort walls. By medieval times, the town had grown in stature and was trading with places as far away as England and Scandinavia (a Wall Street of its time!) even having its own mint and coinage. Andernach and the surrounding area is well known for its pumice with production booming since the 1950s. Enjoy a guided walking tour around its picturesque streets and admire the town’s defensive walls, gates and towers, the finest of which is the 56-metre tall Round Tower. See the ruined castle with its well-preserved keep, and the cathedral with its four soaring towers, impressive interior and quirky wall decorations. At the old harbour area discover the Old Crane, a 16th-century stone-turning tower crane, still in use until 1911 to load millstones, tuff and wine.  Boppard Back on board for lunch, take in the glorious river scenery as we set sail for Boppard, a real time capsule, set against a backdrop of rolling forested slopes and vineyards. Nicknamed ‘Town of the Roses’ it’s a joy to amble through its picture-perfect streets soaking up the ambience of yesteryear. If you’re feeling energetic Marksburg Castle set on a hill overlooking the town is well worth the walk. Dating from the 13th century, as one of the only castles on the Rhine to fully escape war damage it well-deserves its UNESCO status. Learn about life here through the ages as you wander through the Gothic Hall, armoury and kitchen imagining life here in centuries past. With bird’s eye views stretching for miles over the river and valley below, it’s pretty clear why the castle was so well positioned to view oncoming enemies.  Our ship remains moored overnight so after dinner there’s the chance to hop ashore once more for a nightcap in one of the cosy tucked away wine cellars.  Included experiences Guided tour of Andernach & visit to Boppard. 

Day 11

Rhine Gorge Today you’ll have another change to see the world-famous Rhine Gorge, and luckily these views never get boring! Our idea of perfection is spending time sitting on the sun deck as you float past some of the most beautiful landscapes in Europe, with a nice coffee, no to do list to tick off, and nowhere to be. Rüdesheim Later, we’ll arrive in Rüdesheim where you’ll have the afternoon to yourself. This town is like a postcard come to life, set amongst vine-covered slopes, with crooked houses, winding alleys, and quirky little shops. Famous for its wine, especially the Riesling grape, Rüdesheim is a wine lover's paradise so make time to enjoy a glass or two in a local Weinstuben. Wander to the marketplace, with its pastel facades, and enjoy a spot of people-watching in a cosy tavern. You’ve got time to check out the Brömserburg Castle of one of the towns little museums. There’s a cable car over the town too, so you can hover above the vines taking in the views! After dinner back on board, reconvene in the bar for a local Asbach brandy - it’d be rude not to! We remain moored in Rüdesheim overnight.  Included experiences Cruise through Rhine Gorge & visit to Rüdesheim.

Day 12

Mainz During breakfast arrive in the historic city of Mainz, a colourful ensemble of domes and spires rising above the riverbank. Situated at the confluence of the Rhine and Main Rivers, Mainz wears the crown as Germany’s wine capital and proudly claims fame as the birthplace of Johannes Gutenberg, the mastermind behind the movable type printing press.  Dive into history at the city museum, where a reconstruction of Gutenberg's workshop and two copies of the original Gutenberg Bibles from 1455 await. Dominating the skyline is the Martinsdom Cathedral, a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture and Saint Stephen’s Church adds to the spectacle with its stained-glass windows.  On our guided walking tour the city’s rich history is unveiled through our expert’s knowledge as we explore the cobbled streets of the old town, stopping to admire the patrician houses and timber-framed buildings.  As we continue our scenic cruise, lunch is served on board. Seize the moment to indulge in the ship's facilities: treat yourself to a spa session or a visit to the hairdresser, or simply find a cosy spot in the lounge, sip on an afternoon cup of tea, and let the landscape of Germany's winelands unfold before your eyes – a panorama of lush woodland and vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see. What could be more blissful?  Enjoy dinner on board as we continue sailing overnight to Miltenberg.  Please note: Due to locks and low bridges the main part of the sun deck will be closed between Frankfurt and Nuremberg. The other outside areas in front of the lounge, the Riverview Kitchen and the lower section of the sun deck are still accessible. Included experience Guided tour of Mainz.

Day 13

Miltenberg This morning brings us to the medieval village of Miltenberg, a living testament to the beauty of a bygone era. With our local guide leading the charge, we’ll navigate its labyrinth of winding alleys and lanes, uncovering the impressive gatehouse that stands guard over the village and the charming marketplace, lined with traditional fachwerk buildings sporting characterful timber frames; legend has it that the locals were granted free wood from the surrounding forests, resulting in the abundance of this architectural style. Marvel at the square's stone-carved fountain, featuring dancing cherubs, and the intricate detail of the Gasthaus Zum Riesen, claiming to be Germany's oldest tavern.  Wertheim Later our ship will pass under Miltenberg’s red-brick bridge as our Captain skilfully navigates the meandering bends of the Main before our arrival in Wertheim. Off the beaten tourist path, Wertheim welcomes us with its authentic ambience and a postcard-worthy scene of fishing boats anchored along the quayside, pastel-toned houses and a russet-walled 12th-century castle overseeing the old town. We’ll dive into the town's secrets during a late afternoon walking tour with an expert guide, keeping an eye out for the Zobelhaus – a contender for Germany's narrowest house.  This evening enjoy another delectable dinner as we set sail towards Würzburg.  Included experiences Guided tours of Miltenberg & Wertheim.

Day 14

Würzburg Indulge in a leisurely morning of sailing. By early afternoon, we’ll moor in the Bavarian city of Würzburg, a sophisticated gem gracing the banks of the Main. You’re sure to find it a contrast to the quintessential villages we've meandered through and after lunch, it's time to disembark for a guided tour.  Founded in the 10th century as the epicentre of the kingdom known as Franconia, Würzburg unfolds like a living history book! The Marienberg Fortress watches over neat rows of grand, pastel-coloured buildings, punctuated by the spires and domes of the city's many churches. The crown jewel in Würzburg's regal collection though is the Residenz. This magnificent Baroque palace was originally dreamed up to give the Palace of Versailles a run for its money, and although it didn't quite top the French palace in scale, the Residenz earned its spot as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Brace yourself for one of Germany's most ornate staircases and a plethora of interconnected rooms adorned with frescoes, priceless tapestries, sculptures, and paintings.  As we moor in Würzburg overnight, you’ll have plenty of time to roam here at your own pace.   Included experience Guided tour of Würzburg 

Day 15

Rothenburg This morning, prepare for a delightful deviation as we take a drive along the Romantic Road – a fitting name for a route that winds through some of the most spellbinding scenery in the world. Our journey takes us through a folkloric landscape, threaded by a procession of medieval towns, castles and grand palaces. As you soak up the views, we’ll arrive at the town of Rothenburg, crowning a hill with sensational views over the river below. The old town is cradled within immaculately preserved walls and there’ll be time to explore its cobbled lanes, lined with tall gables and pointy roofs.   Ochsenfurt Our ship awaits a short drive away in Ochsenfurt and after lunch, you’ll spend the afternoon enjoying a guided tour. Wander through the old town, pausing to admire the town hall, its mechanical clock stealing the show and 13th-century church with its vibrant interior. You’ll be transported back in time as you stroll amongst the timber-framed houses and ancient ramparts. We return to the ship for dinner where another delicious menu awaits and set sail towards Bamberg.  Included experiences Drive the Romantic Road, visit to Rothenburg & guided tour of Ochsenfurt.

Day 16

Free time sailing Savor a morning of scenic sailing: find a prime spot in the lounge and watch as a kaleidoscope of glorious vistas slips past.  Bamberg This afternoon, we’ll dock in Bamberg – a town so pretty it could be the backdrop for a fairytale. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bamberg was Emperor Heinrich II's 11th-century masterpiece, strategically perched on seven lush green hills, giving it a Romanesque charm that could rival Rome. Our local guide will lead us on a tour, exploring the old town and the multi-spired cathedral. Amid the architectural wonders, you'll encounter Bamberg's most intriguing landmark – the town hall, sitting on an island in the middle of the river, flanked by bridges on either side. From this vantage point, you'll also catch a glimpse of 'Little Venice' – a cluster of fishermen's houses along the waterfront, mostly hailing from the Middle Ages.  Gala Dinner As the evening unfolds, prepare for another highlight – a magnificent Gala Dinner hosted by the Captain, then get ready for a toe-tapping performance of traditional Bavarian folk music, (the very same music that has made Oktoberfest world-famous). Departing from Bamberg, we seamlessly glide into the Main-Danube Canal, setting our course for the grand finale – historic Nuremberg.   Included experiences Guided tour of Bamberg & performance of traditional Bavarian music.

Day 17

Nuremberg Our final morning of cruising has arrived, so savour every moment as we glide towards the Bavarian gem, Nuremberg. While its World War II associations linger in history, our guided tour will reveal a lesser-known side characterised by its cobbled streets, quintessential half-timbered houses, a castle restored after the war, and a surprising hoard of historic landmarks.  Amidst this historic tapestry, you’ll find the Church of Saint Lawrence, a breathtaking specimen of Gothic architecture, and the Church of Our Lady, boasting a working mechanical clock that’s been keeping time since 1506! It oversees the Hauptmarkt, a picturesque square with a fountain reminiscent of a Gothic church tower.  Following our tour, there’s time for you to meander through the city at your own pace. And amidst the grandeur, don’t miss the chance to sample Nuremberg’s renowned gingerbread or take some home as a souvenir.  After a day of exploration, return to the ship for our final dinner - a splendid crescendo to the journey.  Included experience Guided tour of Nuremberg. 

Day 18

Wave goodbye to your ship and crew this morning to start your journey home.

The five-star MS George Eliot – named after one of the leading English novelists of the 19th century – is 110 metres of fine Swiss engineering and craftsmanship. As with all Riviera Travel cruise ships, MS George Eliot was built to the highest specifications and strict safety regulations by Scylla AG, world-renowned builders of the most modern cruisers in Europe.

Guests are welcomed in the elegant lobby with its gleaming marble floor, well-lit by sophisticated lighting. Thoughtful design is on tasteful display throughout the ship – sustainable hardwood furniture, intricate wrought-iron work, and polished copper and brass are beautifully complemented by soft leather and sumptuous Italian fabrics.

MS George Eliot offers the convivial ambience and personal service of a luxury boutique hotel. With 36 staff serving just 132 guests, the experience is far more intimate and enjoyable.

There are 70 luxuriously appointed suites and cabins, which all feature an en-suite bathroom with shower, individually controlled air-conditioning, flat-screen TV, hairdryer, safe, mini fridge, telephone and facilities for making tea and coffee. Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the ship.

For information about life on board our European river cruise ships, click here.

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