10 Night Rhine and Moselle Delights Cruise from Basel (Saxon)

Board the ship for your Rhine & Moselle Delights cruise. (D)

Breisach is your gateway to several different excursions, depending on your interests. Step back in time with a visit to the enchanting Alsatian town of Riquewihr, which looks almost the same as it did in the 16th century. On your walking tour, admire historic architecture as well as famous sights, such as the Dolder Gate. Alternatively, you may wish to go to Freiburg, founded in 1120 and home to the Freiburg Munster, a Gothic cathedral said to have "the most beautiful spire on earth". Those wishing for a more active excursion can cycle through the countryside, or hike through the heart of the Kaiserstuhl, a volcanic region in the Rhine plain known for its unique landscapes, vineyards, and exceptional biodiversity. (B,L,D)

Strasbourg, the capital city of Alsace, offers flavors of both France and Germany. Enjoy a panoramic tour past the stunning Parc de l'Orangerie, the European Parliament, and the Place de la Republique. Then walk through its iconic UNESCO World Heritage "La Petite France" district, which appears to have been lifted straight from the pages of a fairytale. Wander through these charming streets and past the Cathedrale de Notre-Dame with its famous astronomical clock. Alternatively, the active adventurer can take a guided bike ride through this captivating city and Parc de l'Orangerie. (B,L,D)

You have a choice of several excursions, depending on your interest. Visit Heidelberg, a perfectly preserved medieval city nestled in the Neckar River Valley along Germany's Castle Road. Alternatively, relive a bygone era on a tour of the glorious Baroque Schwetzingen Palace. Or, you may decide to visit Schwetzingen Palace Gardens with more than 100 sculptures and an assortment of whimsical buildings. The Apollotempel houses a statue of the ancient Greek god of light and the arts, playing the lyre; and the most spectacular, the Turkischer Garten with a mosque, are a few of the many highlights you will see. For a more active adventure while in Heidelberg, join a guided hike up the Philosophers' Path, aptly named during the Romantic Period, and be rewarded with panoramic views of the city. Later in the day, sail to Rudesheim where you can visit Siegfried's Mechanical Music Museum or taste one of the town's special delights, Rudesheim coffee, ceremoniously made with brandy. (B,L,D)

Your exploration of Rudesheim continues with your choice of three excursions. Take a gondola ride to the Niederwalddenkmal Statue. Afterwards, indulge your taste buds with a sampling of Riesling wines in the vineyards. Alternatively, you can join a guided bike ride through the town and along the Rhine River to Schloss Johannisberg or hike through the town's beautiful vineyards. During the afternoon, set sail along the scenic Rhine River Gorge with its fabled legends and many castles. (B,L,D)

Sail to Bernkastel, located in the middle of the Moselle Valley's wine-producing region. Walk through its colorful Old Town center and past many medieval and Renaissance buildings on a guided tour, and afterwards, be treated to a wine tasting. Cycling enthusiasts can choose to join a bike tour along the shores of the Moselle River, and hikers can opt to trek up to the ruins of Landshut Castle. (B,L,D)

Take a city tour of Trier and find out why it has been called the "Rome of the North" or "Second Rome" as it has impressive Roman relics and nine UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Alternatively, join a guided hike high above Trier to Petrisberg. Later, enjoy a scenic cruise to your next destination. (B,L,D)

Discover how the castle has been an integral part of the town's history, and afterwards, go on a walking tour along Cochem's narrow cobblestone streets lined with medieval houses. For a more active excursion, hike to the castle or go on a biking tour along the Moselle River. (B,L,D)

Enjoy cruising to Cologne, then join a guided tour through the enchanting Old Town, where you will see sites such as the Cologne Rathaus, Germany's oldest town hall; the Fischmarkt, which dates back to the 12th century and the Great St. Martin Church. End your city tour with a visit to a local tavern to taste its famous Kolsch beer. As an alternative, examine the historic architectural styles on display throughout the Cologne Cathedral during a guided tour. This 13th-century Gothic marvel and UNESCO World Heritage Site was the tallest building in the world at the time of its completion, and the church withstood 14 hits from aerial bombs during World War II. Active guests will want to join a guided bike ride along the Rhine and through the historic Stadtgarten. (B,L,D)

View Amsterdam on a scenic canal cruise followed by a walk to Begijnhof, known for its medieval buildings. Or, taste the local flavor on a guided walk past the city's iconic canals, gabled houses, narrow bridges, and house boats, tasting Dutch specialties at a grand Amsterdam cafe. (B,L,D); Please note: May be replaced with alternative tour based on docking location.

Bid farewell to Amsterdam and prepare for your flight home. (B)