Compare The Rhine and Moselle - Southbound 2022 by Tauck vs Highlights of Europe - Start Amsterdam, End Paris, Small Group, Summer by Insight Vacations

Day 1 Arrive Amsterdam

Tour begins: 4:00 PM, Amsterdam. A transfer is included from Amsterdam's Schiphol International Airport or Centraal Station directly to your riverboat. Your cruise on the Moselle and Rhine rivers begins when all guests check in at 4:00 PM. After a Discovery briefing, cocktail hour and a welcome dinner aboard ship, enjoy a musical performance in the lounge. Welkom aan boord!

MEALS : D

LODGING : ms Grace

PORTOFCALL : Amsterdam, Netherlands

Day 2 A canal cruise in Amsterdam and the Rijksmuseum

Enjoy a choice of excursions in Amsterdam today – your first choice is a visit to the famed Rijksmuseum, home to one of the world's most important collections of artwork by the Dutch Masters. Another option is a guided tour through the Dutch countryside with a visit to a tulip and vegetable nursery. You may return to the ship for lunch or remain in town. Following an afternoon at leisure, join us tonight for a Welcome Briefing followed by dinner in the Compass Rose followed by a special performance in the Panorama Lounge. 

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : ms Grace

PORTOFCALL : Amsterdam, Netherlands

Day 3 Discover Floriade

Arrive in Huizen – and as a special Dutch treat included on this river cruise, visit Floriade 2022, "the World's Fair of horticultural shows." Explore an international horticultural wonderland that celebrates Green Cities of the Future on 148 acres of land repurposed and reclaimed from the sea for a future rich in sustainability, greenery, food, energy and healthy living. Featuring four themed districts connected by bridges, walkways, gondolas and trains, this once in a decade exposition showcases green-themed, flower-filled exhibitions from more than 40 countries, along with cultural entertainment, art and cuisine that make it fun for everyone. Truly an energizing experience! Return to the riverboat late afternoon and cruise to Nijmegen where you'll have an opportunity to explore; your riverboat cruises to Köln late evening.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : ms Grace

Day 4 Day of sailing and a castle dinner

A day of cruising awaits you today ahead of a very special evening. This evening, you're off to Engelskirchen for a visit to its neighboring castle, Schloss Ehreshoven. Built in the 14th Century and later expanded in the style of a grand Baroque manor house, the estate is surrounded by a moat, landscaped gardens, and a castle park. Schloss Ehreshoven is frequently used as a film location but this evening it's the elegant setting for a Tauck Exclusive cocktail reception and dinner with entertainment. Return to the ship late tonight to continue your cruise.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : ms Grace

Day 5 Historic Köln & a relaxing afternoon cruising

Spend the morning cruising the Rhine, and arrive this afternoon in the historic German city of Köln (Cologne), where you'll enjoy a city tour with a local guide including the Old Town before returning to the ship for lunch and a relaxing afternoon cruising.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : ms Grace

PORTOFCALL : Köln, Germany

Day 6 Cochem, Reichsburg Castle & Moselle cruising

Your day begins with an introduction to the Moselle River, where your riverboat diverges from the Rhine, en route to Cochem. Stepping ashore in this Moselle Valley town is like stepping into the pages of a medieval fairy tale; tour picture-perfect 1,000-year-old Reichsburg Castle, which looks down on Cochem's quaint market square. Enjoy a relaxing morning aboard the riverboat before your exploration of this jewel of a town – complete with a Baroque town hall and ancient town gates – breathing in its historic charm and ambiance. Explore Cochem either on a guided walking tour or by bike ride to the town of Senheim, where you'll learn about the area's centuries-old winemaking traditions with a tasting of the excellent locally produced vintages before returning to the riverboat. 

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : ms Grace

PORTOFCALL : Cochem, Germany

Day 7 A day in Luxembourg and Traben-Trarbach

Dock in Traben-Trarbach this morning for a journey to the tiny Grand Duchy of Luxembourg. An orientation walk through its well-preserved old town reveals the Cathedral, Parliament, the Palace of the Grand Duke, and centuries-old battlements that are today a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Pay a poignant visit to the Luxembourg American Cemetery and Memorial; over 5,000 American casualties of World War II's Battle of the Bulge lie buried here, as does General George S. Patton. Later, arrive in the charming spa town of Traben-Trarbach. You have the choice of taking a walking tour of this lovely town, or joining us for a guided bicycle ride along the Moselle River before returning to the ship for the evening.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : ms Grace

PORTOFCALL : Luxembourg City, Luxembourg

Day 8 A walking tour of Trier and time in Traben-Trarbach

On an excursion to Trier, enjoy a guided walking tour where you'll discover an ancient city that lays claim as being one of the oldest in Germany – during a walking tour that includes both medieval treasures and sites dating back to Roman times, from a 2nd-century city gate and the 4th-century basilica to a 16th-century fountain featuring images of St. Peter. Reboard your riverboat for an afternoon of classic river cruising, watching the scenery slip by from the Sun Deck as your riverboat glides along the Moselle; enjoy dinner aboard ship tonight.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : ms Grace

PORTOFCALL : Trier, Germany

Day 9 A day of cruising along the Moselle

A wonderful day of cruising along the Moselle awaits today. Following dinner this evening, your ship arrives in the town of Koblenz, where you may join your Tauck Director on a walk into town.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : ms Grace

Day 10 Boppard & the Lorelei

Tauck's Rhine-Moselle river cruise departs the Moselle today and returns to the Rhine, arriving in Boppard for your choice of a two-hour bicycling excursion along the Rhine or, stay on the riverboat as it glides through the Middle Rhine Valley, listening to the legend of the Lorelei and discover for yourself why this beautiful part of the river – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – has inspired composers, writers and artists for centuries. Have lunch onboard, and gain insights on the Lorelei Valley and legends associated with the many castles you'll pass on your way through the region from your Tauck Director. Enjoy dinner aboard ship tonight.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : ms Grace

PORTOFCALL : Boppard, Germany

Day 11 Historic Heidelberg

Enjoy a day in the historic college town of Heidelberg, home to one of the oldest universities in Europe as well as the setting for the famous operetta, The Student Prince, or visit a centuries-old family winery. In Heidelberg, take a walking tour for a close-up look at the Old Town, and ride a funicular up to the imposing Heidelberger Schloss, perched 300 feet above the city; view its examples of medieval, Renaissance and Baroque architecture, and enjoy lunch at a local restaurant. Perhaps you'll be as captivated by this lovely old city as America's first travel writer, Mark Twain, was when he spent three months here with his family. Enjoy lunch at a local brewery in the heart of the old town with free time to explore before returning to the ship for an evening of cruising.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : ms Grace

PORTOFCALL : Heidelberg, Germany

Day 12 The Black Forest spa town of Baden-Baden or Stuttgart

Stuttgart enjoys a reputation as an industrial powerhouse; a cradle of both the automobile and motorcycle industries in the 19th century, it's the corporate headquarters of both Porsche and Mercedes-Benz. But the city also possesses a charming, small-town atmosphere, tucked into an inviting urban landscape of historic sites, lakes, parks, gardens, vineyards and forests. Your excursion features a walking tour of the city's historic center, where you'll see the restored Altes Schloss (Old Castle), most of which dates to the 15th century, and its inner courtyard; the palatial 18th-century Neues Schloss (New Castle), completely rebuilt after nearly being burned to the ground during WWII. Later, you'll explore the Porsche Museum – a dazzling ultramodern showcase featuring more than 80 vehicles on display, ranging from some of designer Ferdinand Porsche's earliest models to concept cars, prototypes and Porsches of the present, in exhibits that chronicle the history of the legendary car company. As an alternate option, travel by coach to the beautiful spa town of Baden-Baden where you'll discover that the elegant Belle Èpoque period is still alive and well. For many generations, wealthy folks have flocked here to see and be seen, and to take the healing thermal waters for which the town is famous. Join us on a walking tour and time spent on your own discovering some of the town's treasures ranging from the ruins of Roman baths to the ornate, 250-year-old Belle Èpoque casino, the Kurhaus, which movie star Marlene Dietrich once described as "the most beautiful casino in the world." You'll also have an optional opportunity to visit the Caracalla Spa in town before returning to the riverboat for the evening.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : ms Grace

PORTOFCALL : Baden-Baden, Germany

Day 13 A taste of France, past and present, in old Strasbourg

Your Rhine cruise continues today to stunning Strasbourg, France – the seat of the European Council, the European Parliament and the European Court of Human Rights, as well as the capital of the historic Alsace region. You'll see the Parliament buildings and step back in time to discover La Petite France, noted for its medieval half-timbered houses set beside lovely canals, on your choice of a walking tour or a small group excursion off the beaten path to unique local shops. While visiting the famous Gothic Cathédrale de Notre-Dame de Strasbourg, you'll be inspired by the graceful, expressive statuary of the Pilier des Anges (Pillar of Angels), and the magnificent stained glass windows. Spend free time this afternoon exploring the "crossroads of Europe" as you wish before returning to the riverboat.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : ms Grace

PORTOFCALL : Strasbourg, France

Day 14 Basel or Rhine Falls and a farewell dinner

The Tauck Difference in European river cruising is all about where you go, what you do, and who you meet on your shore excursions – and today, you have a choice! First choice is spending the day in Basel, a beautiful city on the banks of the Rhine River. You'll get a good overview on a brief sightseeing tour that is followed by a walking tour in the Old Town – see the bright-red Rathaus, Basel's Town Hall. After lunch, explore more of one of Europe's most attractive and best-preserved Old Towns on your own, perhaps taking in one of the city's 40 museums. Your second choice is a trip to the town of Schaffhausen for an excursion to the Rhine Falls, the largest plain waterfall in Europe, which you'll experience on a boat ride. Return to the ship in Basel; this evening, bid the captain and crew a fond adieu at the ship's farewell reception followed by dinner aboard the riverboat as your Rhine cruise concludes.

MEALS : B, L, D

LODGING : ms Grace

PORTOFCALL : Basel, Switzerland

Day 15 Journey Home

Tour ends: Basel. Tour ends: Basel. Fly home anytime. Upon disembarking the riverboat (no later than 9:00 AM), transfers are included to EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg or Basel's SBB train station; guests can also transfer to Zürich Airport or Zurich Hauptbahnhof (train station). Please allow 3 hours for flight check-in. 

MEALS : B

PORTOFCALL : Basel, Switzerland

Day 1: Welcome to Amsterdam

Welcome to Amsterdam, enjoy a day of leisure. Join your Travel Director at 17:00 for a Welcome Reception. Mingle and get to know your fellow travellers as you cruise along some of the many quaint, tree-lined canals, to explore the heart of the Old City, before enjoying a pleasant evening of dinner and wine at a local restaurant.

Hilton Amsterdam.

Dinner with Wine

Day 2: The Rhine Valley and Heidelberg

Take a scenic drive through the Rhine Valley to see quaint villages, hilltop castles and hear the legend of the Loreley Rock.Follow the Neckar River to Heidelberg and visit Heidelberg Castle with a Local Expert.

Marriott Hotel Heidelberg.

Breakfast

Day 3: Mountain-ringed Innsbruck

Skirt the northern Black Forest and head towards the rolling Bavarian Alps. Stop beneath the royal castles of Hohenschwangau and King Ludwig’s Neuschwanstein, rumoured to have inspired Walt Disney's iconic castle. Once over the Austrian border, continue to the Tyrolean capital of Innsbruck. Tour the architectural jewels of the city, seeing the Imperial Palace, Golden Roof and the 14th century houses of the Old Town.

AC Hotel Innsbruck.

Breakfast

Day 4: Across the Dolomites to Venice Relaxed Start

Continue your journey, crossing the Italian border and on through the Dolomites. Amongst the hills of Conegliano Veneto, stop at a local family winery in Veneto to discover the art of prosecco production. Savour a tasting of these luxurious sparkling wines and discover how to make the perfect Bellini. Continue to the romantic city of Venice, Queen of the Adriatic. In the evening, enjoy a dinner with wine.

Hotel Indigo Venice - Sant'Elena.

Breakfast, Dinner with Wine

Day 5: The Magic of La Serenissima Relaxed Start

Wake up ready to embrace this romantic city. Join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience as you witness the skill of glassblowers on a visit to a traditional arts centre. Take a private cruise to St. Mark's Square where the city's former wealth and power is evidenced by the riches of St. Mark's Basilica. Admire the Doge's Palace and its adjoining Bridge of Sighs. With the rest of the day free, why not cruise the Venetian lagoon to the island of Burano for a meal of local specialties and wine?

Hotel Indigo Venice - Sant'Elena.

Breakfast

Day 6: The Eternal City of Rome

Head into the Apennine Mountains and venture through the peaceful landscapes of Tuscany and Umbria. Follow the course of the Tiber to your hotel in the Eternal City of Rome. Italian culture is deeply rooted in hospitality with food, friends and family being central to everyday life. You’re invited into the home of a Roman local to experience Italian hospitality at its best, as you enjoy a delicious home-cooked meal with your host.

Golden Tulip Rome Piram.

Breakfast, Dinner with Wine

Day 7: Papal and Imperial Rome

During your two-night stay, join a Local Expert for a private tour of the priceless art housed in the Vatican Museums and the frescoes of the Sistine Chapel. Your priority visit includes fast-track entry and behind-the-scenes access to the Bramante Staircase, a part of the Vatican usually closed to the public. Then explore St. Peter’s Basilica, one of the largest churches in the world. Cross the River Tiber to see the largest amphitheatre of the Roman Empire, the Colosseum and enjoy the afternoon at your leisure.

Golden Tulip Rome Piram.

Breakfast

Day 8: The Chianti Hills to Florence

Drive to the Chianti Hills and the city of Florence. A Local Expert will accompany you to the Duomo where the Gates of Paradise adorn the baptistery. Continue to Piazza della Signoria, the political heart of the city, lined with fountains and statues it acts as a virtual open-air gallery of Renaissance masterpieces. A leisurely afternoon give you time to shop for quality goods, like gold and leather, which Florence is famous for. Alternatively, there is the option to visit the Accademia Gallery with an art historian to see Michelangelo's famed masterpiece, 'David.' In the evening, savour an authentic meal at a local trattoria in the heart of Florence.

NH Firenze, Florence.

Breakfast, Dinner with Wine

Day 9: Lake Maggiore Relaxed Start

Travel past Milan, the capital of Lombardy, as you journey north to the beautiful Italian Lake District, a favourite retreat of the rich and famous where Alpine scenery combines with luxuriant subtropical vegetation. Relax and enjoy an afternoon at leisure at this popular resort and beautiful lake. Perhaps choose to take a cruise to the lovely Isola Bella for a guided tour of the incredible palace and stunning Botanical Gardens? Later, the choice is yours for your Dine-Around Evening. Enjoy your preferred dining experience from a selection of hand-picked local restaurants, each offering their own unique cuisine and ambience.

Hotel Simplon, Baveno

Breakfast, Dinner with Wine

Day 10: The Alps and onto Lucerne Relaxed Start

In the morning, enjoy your last moments among the charming Italian Lake District before your travels continue across the Swiss border. Appreciate the Alpine terrain as you embark on a scenic journey by funicular railway and open-top cable car to the summit of the stunning Mount Stanserhorn. Take in the pristine mountain air and, on a clear day, witness views as far as Alsace and the Black Forest in Germany. Explore Mount Stanserhorn with Insight Choice. Choose to take a walk along beautiful scenic pathways for a chance to see marmots and other native animals. Alternatively, join a MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience and hear a conservation talk by a Swiss ranger, to learn about local wildlife and flora. Continue to lakeside Lucerne where the afternoon is at your leisure. You may choose to enjoy a cruise on Lake Lucerne with its dramatic vistas.

Hotel Astoria, Lucerne.

Breakfast

Day 11: Lakeside Lucerne Relaxed Start

The emotive Lion Monument, carved into a limestone cliff, is a memorial dedicated to the heroic Swiss Guards who died defending King Louis XVI during the French Revolution, which is a source of great pride to the people of Lucerne. See this beautiful work before strolling across the Chapel Bridge to see the ornate Jesuit Church. With the day free, there is plenty of time for shopping for delectable chocolate and glamorous Swiss watches in the traffic-free Old Town. Perhaps venture into the countryside for a delightful horse-drawn carriage ride and meet the local farmers?

Hotel Astoria, Lucerne.

Breakfast

Day 12: Sights and delights of Paris

Journey through the rural French country side of Alsace and Burgundy regions, famous for its vineyards and wines, to arrive in the vibrant City of Light. During your time in Paris, see the impressive Eiffel Tower, the magnificent Notre Dame Cathedral and the imposing facades of the Louvre. Discover the banks of the Seine with its many romantic bridges, see the obelisk in the centre of the Place de la Concorde and drive along the Champs Élysées to the Arc de Triomphe. With the evening free, there are countless opportunities to enjoy the lively atmosphere of this glittering city. Why not visit one of the world-famous cabaret shows?

Crowne Plaza Paris - Republique.

Breakfast

Day 13: The Food and Flavours of Paris

Start your day with an Insight Choice. Choose to shop in quaint boutiques like a true Parisian for fashion, perfume or cosmetics with your Local Expert. Alternatively, join an avid foodie as you head into areas where Parisians go about their daily lives to explore small shops and sample local treats and delicacies. In the evening, enjoy a Celebration Dinner at the historic restaurant La Coupole. Delight in French cuisine and delicious wine.

Crowne Plaza Paris - Republique.

Breakfast, Dinner with Wine

Day 14: Au Revoir Paris

Bid farewell to your travelling companions as your journey comes to an end. Transfers arrive at Charles de Gaulle Airport at 08:00 and 11:00.

Breakfast