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

Embark your ship in Basel, Switzerland, and meet your fellow passengers onboard. (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 Tower. Alternatively, you may wish to go to Freiburg, founded in 1120 and home to the Freiburg's Munster, a Gothic cathedral said to have "the most beautiful spire on earth". Those wishing a more active excursion can cycle through the scenic countryside, or go on a hike to the Black Forest, a magical land full of cultural traditions, as well as home to elaborate cuckoo clocks. (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 an excursion to the glorious Schwetzingen Palace and Gardens. Tour this splendid palace and wander through its 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 those seeking a more active adventure, hike the historic Philosophers' Path along the Neckar River or join a guided bike tour along the Neckar River to the medieval town of Ladenburg. 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, Rudesheimer Kaffee, 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 along the scenic Moselle 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)

Set sail for Trier, Germany's oldest city, where you can discover on a city tour 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, go in search of the secrets of the Porta Nigra gate on a tour that takes you back to a time when Rome ruled the world from the emperor's seat in Trier. You also have the choice of a bike tour through the historic city center and along the Moselle River or hike high above Trier to Petrisberg. (B,L,D)

Enjoy a scenic morning cruise to Cochem with its majestic Reichsburg Castle. 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. As an alternative excursion, you can visit one of Europe's oldest working mustard mills where you will sample Cochem's famous mustard. (B,L,D)

Join a guided tour through the Old Town and explore the UNESCO-designated cathedral. Continue on to the Cologne Rathaus, Germany's oldest town hall, the Overstolzenhaus, and the Festival Hall. For a different view of the city, visit a local tavern to taste its famous Kolsch beer, only made in Cologne, and Reibekuchen mit Apfelmus, potato pancakes typically served with applesauce. Active adventurists will want to join a guided bike ride along the Rhine. (B,L,D)

View Amsterdam on a scenic canal cruise followed by a walk to Begijnhof, known for its medieval buildings. For a different view of the city, join a walking tour of the Jordaan district, famous for its specialty shops, fashion boutiques, and restaurants. (B,L,D); Note: Depending on docking location, Jordaan Tour may not operate; therefore, an alternative tour will operate instead.

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