18 Day Rhine and Moselle with Switzerland by Rail

With historic houses lining its banks and low bridges spanning its waterways, Amsterdam’s 17th-century canal network has earned it the nickname ‘Venice of the North’. Today, board a glass-top boat and cruise past the city’s waterside sights with a local guide. Later this evening, enjoy a special Welcome Dinner on board.

Learn how the twin spires of Cologne’s famous cathedral, the Kölner Dom, took over six centuries to complete as you cruise into this picturesque city. Disembark and take the short drive to Brühl for your Insider Experience. This afternoon, enjoy free time to explore the centre of Cologne at your leisure.

Insider Experience – Augustusburg Palace in Germany

Explore the former residence of Archbishop-Elector Clemens August, the World Heritage-listed Augustusburg Palace in Brühl. Listen to enthralling stories and enjoy a walk through the stunning landscaped parks and gardens between the palace and the Falkenlust hunting lodge. The palace and the lodge are some of the finest examples of rococo architecture from 18th century Germany.

Relax and enjoy the scenery as you cruise along one of the Moselle River’s most picturesque stretches. In Cochem, set out on a walking tour through narrow lanes lined with half-timbered houses, then visit magnificent Cochem Castle, perched high above the river like a scene from a fairy tale.

Cruise through the Rhine Gorge, widely regarded as the most scenic stretch of the Rhine River. In Rüdesheim, ride the Winzerexpress mini road train through the town to Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum to view its remarkable collection of automated instruments. Afterwards, enjoy time to wander the Old Town and perhaps visit the famous Käthe Wohlfahrt Christmas store.

Arrive in Strasbourg, the Alsatian city set on the border of France and Germany. Enjoy a special Insider Experience before returning to your river ship for a Farewell Dinner.

Insider Experience – Old Town Tour and Tasting

Join a guided walking tour through the historic centre of Strasbourg, admiring its medieval architecture, including the famous cathedral. Along the way, sample regional specialties such as local cheeses and sweet treats.

Disembark in Breisach and journey into the enchanting Black Forest, travelling by coach through rolling hills and dense pine forests to the village of Gutach.

Insider Experience – Black Forest Open-Air Museum and Cake Tasting

Visit the renowned Black Forest Open-Air Museum, where traditional farmhouses, workshops and costumed artisans bring rural life from centuries past vividly to life. Afterwards, enjoy a tasting of the region’s famous Black Forest cake before returning to your river ship.

Today, disembark your ship in Basel and travel on to Geneva, where the rest of your day is at leisure.

Today, enjoy a scenic cruise on Lake Geneva, taking in views towards Mont Blanc, the United Nations Office at Geneva, elegant lakeside villas and manicured parks and gardens. Later, travel by train to Lausanne and check in to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure.

Begin in Lausanne and board a local train to Montreux.

Insider Experience – GoldenPass Express

On arrival, transfer to the GoldenPass Express for a scenic journey into the Swiss Alps. As the train climbs through the mountains, pass Montbovon, the village of Château-d’Oex and the resort town of Gstaad, known for its refined charm. Continue through alpine meadows, picturesque villages and sweeping mountain vistas before arriving in Interlaken.

Today, ascend to 3,454 metres above sea level aboard the cogwheel train to Jungfraujoch, Europe’s highest railway station. Known as the ‘Top of Europe’, the journey travels through the heart of the Bernese Alps, revealing snow-capped peaks, glaciers and alpine meadows. At the summit, take in sweeping panoramic views and explore the Ice Palace and Sphinx Observatory.

Travel to Brigg and board the Glacier Express, a narrow-gauge train renowned for its iconic alpine route to the luxury resort town of St. Moritz. Through panoramic windows, take in breathtaking views of jagged peaks, lush meadows, sprawling vineyards, and forested hillsides. On arrival, check in to your hotel before dinner this evening.

Insider Experience – Glacier Express

Journey aboard the Glacier Express, travelling along one of the world’s most scenic rail routes to the alpine resort town of St. Moritz.

After breakfast, board the Bernina Express for an Insider Experience to Tirano. Later, return to St. Moritz by regional train.

Insider Experience – Bernina Express

Board the Bernina Express, travelling from St. Moritz to the charming Italian town of Tirano. Marvel at glittering lakes, the mighty Morteratsch Glacier and the dramatic Bernina Pass before descending past turquoise alpine lagoons, sweeping valleys and the iconic Brusio Circular Viaduct. Pause at Alp Grüm, 2,091 m above sea level, for photographs overlooking the Palü Glacier and the Val Poschiavo.

Today is yours to enjoy at leisure in Lugano, perhaps stroll along the lakeside promenade, browsing boutique shops or relaxing at a cafe overlooking the water.

Spend the morning soaking up the relaxed lakeside atmosphere of Lugano before setting out towards the heart of Switzerland for your Insider Experience. This evening, you may choose to enjoy an optional traditional dinner and entertainment at a Swiss folklore restaurant (additional expense).

Insider Experience – Gotthard Panorama Express

Travel aboard the Gotthard Panorama Express, one of Switzerland’s most scenic routes. Journey by First Class panoramic train to Flüelen, enjoying sweeping views of mountains and valleys, then continue by boat across Lake Lucerne with lunch included. On arrival in Lucerne, set out on a guided walking tour of this charming city, framed by the Swiss Alps. Stroll across the iconic Chapel Bridge, home to the distinctive octagonal Water Tower.

Today, ascend to the summit of Mount Pilatus aboard the world’s steepest cogwheel railway, taking in views of flower-filled pastures, rugged mountain ledges and snow-capped peaks.

This morning, travel by train to Zürich. Enjoy a guided tour of the vibrant city, including the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town and its striking medieval architecture. The remainder of the day is at leisure.

Today, your incredible adventure comes to an end. Following breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the airport.