Wines of the Rhine & Moselle: 8 days Frankfurt to Frankfurt

Welcome to Germany. Upon arrival, you’ll be met at Frankfurt Airport and then transferred to your award-winning Emerald Star-Ship in Mainz. Here, you’ll be welcomed on board by your friendly captain and crew. Later, enjoy dinner on board with your fellow guests.

Please book your flight to arrive into Frankfurt prior to 03:30 PM.

Your first port of call is Rüdesheim, a delightful small town and gateway to storied German wine culture and Rhine Valley history. A blend of medieval architecture and a lively, tourist-oriented atmosphere, Rüdesheim is celebrated for its fine wines, especially Riesling and Sekt (sparkling wine). Wine-making traditions here date back over a thousand years.

EmeraldPLUS
Visit to Schloss Johannisberg Winery
In the afternoon, you’ll visit the historic Schloss Johannisberg Winery in the picturesque Rheingau wine region. Famous for its stunning vineyard views and centuries of Riesling production, the world’s first Riesling winery comes steeped in history and is a must for wine lovers and those who appreciate quintessential vineyard scenery. 

EmeraldACTIVE
Hike to Niederwalddenkmal
This morning, enjoy an active hike through verdant vineyards to the Niederwalddenkmal, a stunning monument located in the Niederwald, near Rüdesheim am Rhein. This historical landmark overlooks the beautiful Rhine Valley and was constructed in the late 1800s to commemorate the Unification of Germany. 

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Rüdesheim walk with specialty coffee (extra expense)
Take a ride on a mini train before sampling the specialty coffee of the region. Observe a traditional Rüdesheim coffee presentation followed by a tasting. This specialty coffee drink with Asbach is a delicious indulgence for wine lovers and coffee fans alike.

Founded around 3,000 BC, the charming town of Bernkastel nestles along the banks of the Moselle River and is home to beautifully preserved buildings that date back to 1416 AD and a historic medieval Old Town. Nestled in the Moselle wine region, Bernkastel is another major centre for wine production, especially Riesling and is also well-known as a health resort and birthplace of the philosopher, Nikolaus von Kues.

Included Excursion
Walking tour of Bernkastel 
Embark on a guided walking tour of Bernkastel, enjoying a stroll through the Medieval Old Town and its well-preserved medieval marketplace. Admire the half-timbered houses, castle remnants and landmarks such as the town gate and 17th-century Renaissance town hall.

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided hike to Landshut Ruins
Alternatively, join an active hike up to the Landshut Castle Ruins, majestically resting atop a rocky ledge, behind Bernkastel. In its current form, Landshut Castle dates back to the 13th century, though its origins are said to be even older. Join your local guide and learn about this fascinating history, as well as admire the magnificent views from the castle and hilltop.

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Wine Experience in Bernkastell (extra expense)
Complement your included excursion today with an exclusive wine tasting on the fertile banks of the Moselle River – a wine-making paradise. Bernkastel's charming setting is an inspiring location to sample local wines while learning about wine growing stories of the region.

Close to the border of Luxembourg and tucked away in a basin in the beautiful Moselle Valley, the city of Trier is a hidden treasure. Founded by the Romans during the reign of Emperor Augustus in the late 1st century BC, Trier is considered Germany's oldest city and an important site for ancient art treasures, monuments and classical heritage. Often referred to as the ‘Rome of the North,’ several well-preserved Roman structures include Porta Nigra, an outstanding relic of the ancient world, an Amphitheatre and the imperial baths. Medieval buildings, such as St. Peter's Cathedral, rank as the oldest church in Germany.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Trier 
During today’s guided tour, explore the ancient remains of the Old City, including the Imperial Baths, where the Romans came to relax, and the impressive Porta Nigra, considered the best-preserved Roman city gate north of the Alps. 

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Guided tour of Luxembourg (extra expense)
Enjoy a fascinating guided tour of nearby Luxembourg. Bordered by Belgium, France, and Germany, this small, landlocked country is the world's only remaining Grand Duchy. Resting on the crossroads of Germanic and Latin traditions, Luxembourg is known for its rich history, beautiful castles, delicious local cuisine and viticulture. The capital, Luxembourg City, is home to known for its World Heritage-listed historic Old Town and fortifications, as well as modern-day European Union institutions.

Welcome to Cochem, a delightful town in Germany’s Moselle Valley, known as the ‘Pearl of Moselle’ and celebrated for its wine industry, particularly Riesling wines. As well as brimming with many local vineyards and wineries, Cochem also delights with its well- preserved Old Town, striking medieval architecture and half-timbered houses, along with beautiful river scenery.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Cochem
Join a guided tour of Cochem’s well-preserved Old Town. Along winding streets, witness the remains of the historic town wall with its old fortifications, the town hall and many other gems, including Reichsburg Castle, a fairytale medieval fortress that rests on a hill overlooking the town.

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided e-bike tour around Cochem
Alternatively, if you feel more active, join a guided e-bike tour around Cochem, cycling through picturesque landscapes, verdant vineyards, and charming riverside pathways that reveal the breathtaking natural beauty of this region.

EmeraldPLUS
Wine tasting at Hieronimi
Following your included morning tour, you’re invited to a family-run winery for a tasting of the local wines, while admiring the beautiful views of Cochem and the Moselle River. During your visit, you’ll learn about the esteemed viticulture of the region and what inspired many generations of wine-makers.

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Grand-Prix backstage experience (extra expense)
Step behind the scenes of the legendary “Green Hell” and uncover fascinating trivia and entertaining stories from more than 95 years of racing history. During guided experience, you’ll explore the historic paddock, the start & finish building, and the Media Centre. The highlight: an exclusive rooftop view from the pit building, offering a breathtaking panorama of the Grand Prix Track. Go beyond the grandstands and become a true Nürburgring insider.

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Tastes of the Moselle (extra expense)
You’re invited on a delicious journey through the town’s culinary traditions. Today’s experience includes a visit to the historic mustard mill, where you’ll learn about traditional production and sample some unique flavours. At a local bakery, enjoy freshly baked regional specialties before continuing to a typical German beer garden. Surrounded by charming streets and river views, you’ll enjoy a perfect combination of culture, craftsmanship and local flavours.

Located at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers, Koblenz is one of the oldest cities in Germany, steeped in history and brimming with fascinating landmarks. It’s also renowned for its World Heritage-listed landscapes and rich culture.

Included Excursion
Koblenz walking tour
Embark on a guided walking tour through Koblenz. As you explore the city’s historic streets, soak up the blend of old and new that defines this vibrant urban landscape. Along the quaint winding streets of the Old Town, observe the impressive townhouses, each one the home to unique history, charming squares and historic churches.

EmeraldACTIVE
Guided e-bike tour in Koblenz
Alternatively, if you’re feeling active, join today’s guided e-bike tour amid beautiful riverscapes beyond Koblenz. After crossing the Rhine River twice on different bridges, you’ll leisurely cycle along the picturesque riverbanks. At certain spots along the way, your local guide will stop for a few minutes to provide fascinating insight into the area.

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Visit to Marksburg Castle (extra expense)
Soaring above the town of Braubach, magnificent Marksburg Castle ranks as one of the principal sites of the World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge. Regarded as the oldest intact castle on the Rhine River, you’ll discover this strikingly designed castle is wonderfully maintained inside and out. Explore within a series of typical interiors that include the castle kitchen, knight's hall, armoury and even an impressive wine cellar. The castle’s light-stone walls come protected by an outer fortress, with a single tower peering over the turrets and walls – resembling something out of the pages of a Brothers Grimm fairy tale.

Welcome to Mainz, a city that impresses with its stunning Old Town, home to a central sandstone cathedral, medieval market squares and well-preserved, half-timbered houses. The town is well-known as the birthplace of Johannes Gutenberg, who invented the first printing press and manufactured his first books in the 15th century, including the Gutenberg Bible, revolutionising the way books were produced in this period.

Included Excursion
Eberbach Abbey with wine tasting
Visit Eberbach Abbey, one of the best-preserved medieval monasteries in the Rheingau Region and regarded as one of Europe’s most important monasteries. Founded in 1136 by St. Bernard of Clairvaux, this was once one of the most active monasteries in Germany, boasting the nation’s largest medieval vineyard. As a key filming location for the 1986 film, 'In the Name of the Rose' (adapted from Umberto Eco's thrilling novel), Eberbach is a must-see. Today, the abbey continues its winemaking tradition, producing exquisite wines. During your visit, enjoy a Riesling wine tasting, savouring the region’s vibrant flavours.

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Gutenberg Museum visit & workshop (extra expense)
Gutenberg Museum, located at the heart of the Old Town, is one of the world’s oldest museums dedicated to the history of books and the printed word. On your guided tour, you’ll gain an in-depth look into the fascinating world of the printing press invented by Johannes Gutenberg in Mainz in the 15th century. The museum's precious collection includes two original Gutenberg Bibles that date back to the middle of the 15th century, widely regarded as some of the finest books of all time. You’ll also visit a workshop that offers hourly demonstrations revealing what the printing process would have been like in Gutenberg's day.

This morning, after breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to your fellow guests and disembark your Emerald Star-Ship for your transfer to Frankfurt airport, leaving with cherished memories.

This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.