Eastern European Escapade & Splendours of Europe

Welcome to Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic. On arrival at the airport, you will be met and transferred to your centrally located hotel for a three-night stay. This evening, meet your Tour Director and fellow travellers for a welcome drink.

Prague is a storybook city of cobbled lanes, soaring spires and riverside charm. Its UNESCO-listed historic centre stretches from the iconic Charles Bridge up to hilltop Prague Castle, taking in Old Town Square and its famous Astronomical Clock. Cosy cafés, jazz bars and traditional beer halls are tucked into centuries-old streets and courtyards. Compact and walkable, Prague layers its rich architectural heritage with a lively contemporary food and arts scene, creating an atmosphere that feels at once romantic, vibrant and unmistakably authentic. After this morning’s included excursion, explore more of this captivating Czech capital at your leisure. Your Tour Director will be more than happy to help you plan your day. Included Excursion Guided tour of Prague Begin today’s walking tour at the World Heritage-listed Prague Castle complex. Built originally in the 9th century, Prague Castle has long served as the seat of power for kings of Bohemia, Holy Roman emperors, and presidents of Czechoslovakia. After passing through three castle courtyards, visit St. Vitus Cathedral, then continue down the Castle steps, admiring wonderful vistas across this stunning city. Cross the pedestrian Charles Bridge, built in the 15th century and lined with statues of Catholic saints, before reaching the Old Town of Prague. Your fascinating tour concludes in front of the famous medieval Astronomical Clock in the Old Town Square. EmeraldPLUS Highlight dinner in Prague This evening, enjoy a highlight dinner and night with your fellow guests at a local restaurant in Prague.

Enjoy your final day in Prague, continuing to explore this beautiful city and taking in the well-preserved architecture at leisure or choose to join an optional Emerald DiscoverMORE excursion. DiscoverMORE Tastes of Czechia (extra expense) During today’s guided tour, learn about the great variety of Czech wines. A short walk from your hotel will lead you through some of the citys most interesting hidden corners before arriving at a local restaurant. Meet your sommelier and enjoy a welcome drink of Czech sparkling wine, followed by a selection of red, white and Rosé wines, all accompanied by traditional charcuterie and cheeses carefully selected to complement each glass. Duration; 2.5 hours, Activity level: Easy

Today, you’ll depart Prague and then drive along the Elbe Valley to Germany, stopping first at Dresden, known as Florence on the Elbe. Later, you’ll arrive in Berlin, the dynamic German capital, where you’ll enjoy a two-night stay in a centrally located hotel. Included Excursion Dresden with New Green Vault Museum visit On this morning’s included tour in Dresden, you’ll experience the Frauenkirche, the Castle of the Electors of Saxony and the New Green Vault, which houses an exquisite collection of iconic Meissen porcelain.

Berlin, the capital of Germany, is an enticing blend of powerful history and bold creativity. Grand squares and stately Prussian landmarks give way to leafy parks, canal-side paths and neighbourhoods where repurposed factories hum with galleries, cafés and music venues. Layers of 20th-century history are never far from view, yet the city feels resolutely forward-looking, fuelled by art, ideas and an easygoing local lifestyle. It’s a destination of reflection and reinvention, where culture, creativity and everyday life come together in one compelling urban experience. Included Excursion Tour of Berlin On this morning’s orientation tour of Berlin, you’ll get to know more about the capital of Germany and its storied history. Following the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989, Berlin transformed into the impressive and exciting metropolis that it is today. See the new Reichstag, the Brandenburg Gate, the State Opera House, and Alexander Platz. Visit the former Checkpoint Charlie and explore other significant sites linked to the era of the Iron Curtain. DiscoverMORE Tastes of Berlin (extra expense) Dive into Berlin’s bold flavours on a tasting tour that celebrates the city’s culinary icons. Indulge in the sweet delight of a Berliner Pfannkuchen, savour the spicy kick of currywurst paired with tangy sauerkraut that showcases true German comfort food. All this is perfectly complemented by a refreshing beer—an authentic taste of Berlin’s vibrant food culture. Duration: 1.5 hours, Activity level: Easy DiscoverMORE Visit to Potsdam & Neues Palais (extra expense) Take a short drive to Potsdam to admire the palace of Frederick the Great and visit the Cecilienhof Country House, where the famous Potsdam Treaty was signed in 1945. Duration: 5 hours, Activity level: Easy

This morning, you’ll depart Berlin and be transferred to the capital of Poland, Warsaw, enjoying a delicious lunch en-route. Bursting with culture, history and contemporary flair, Poland’s vibrant capital promises far more than meets the eye. Upon arrival in Warsaw, you’ll settle into your centrally-located hotel for your two-night stay.

Warsaw is a city that wears resilience as part of its skyline, where pastel townhouses and church towers rise from streets once reduced to rubble. In the Old Town, cafés spill onto cobbles beneath the Royal Castle, while the Royal Route leads past palaces and leafy gardens that feel almost stately in their calm. A few tram stops away, murals, modern museums and riverside hangouts bring a fresh, creative pulse to former industrial pockets. The result is a capital that feels reflective yet forward-looking, inviting you to experience both its quiet corners and its energetic, modern edge. Today, soak up the sights of Warsaw on your included morning tour. Later, you may choose to join an optional Emerald DiscoverMORE excursion, or to continue exploring this fascinating East European city at leisure. Your tour director will be more than happy to help you plan your explorations in Warsaw. Included Excursion Guided walking tour of Warsaw & Royal Castle Today’s guided sightseeing tour reveals the historic centre where much of the Old Town was rebuilt after the war. Memories of Polanski’s film ‘The Pianist’ come to mind as you visit the Jewish Ghetto with a local guide. Observe a monument to the Ghetto heroes, the Palace of Culture, and the Chopin Memorial. You’ll also pay a visit to the Royal Castle – nowadays, a state museum and national historical monument, which formerly served as the official royal residence of several Polish monarchs. EmeraldPLUS Highlight Dinner & Chopin Concert in Warsaw This evening, enjoy an exclusive highlight dinner and private recital of Chopins music, performed by a celebrated Polish pianist amid a private manor house – a unique cultural experience. DiscoverMORE Tastes of Poland (extra expense) Experience the flavours of Poland in a cozy Warsaw kitchen during a hands-on pierogi cooking class with a local chef. You will learn to prepare the dough, shape and fill traditional dumplings, and hear stories about Polish food culture and everyday life in the city. Then sit down together to enjoy your freshly made pierogi, served with classic local accompaniments in a warm, homely atmosphere. Duration: 1.5 hours, Activity level: Easy

This morning, you’ll depart from Warsaw and travel by First Class train to Kraków, a former Polish royal capital founded in the 7th century and renowned for its well-preserved Old Town. Here in Kraków, you’ll enjoy an included two-night stay in a centrally-located hotel. Included Excursion Guided walking tour of Kraków This afternoon, discover this imposing medieval city on a guided walking tour, visiting the cathedral and castle on Wawel Hill before exploring the Old Town on foot, taking in sights such as St. Mary’s Church and the historic Cloth Hall.

After your included excursion, you’ll have the afternoon and evening at your leisure in Kraków. You may choose to join an optional Emerald DiscoverMORE excursion, explore more of the Old Town and perhaps later, or sample some traditional Polish cuisine in one of the many esplanades within Kraków – a beautiful city that truly comes to vibrant life in the evening. Included Excursion Guided tour of Auschwitz Concentration Camp & Birkenau Visit the sombre Auschwitz Concentration Camp and Birkenau on an insightful guided tour, where you’ll see the preserved camp remains and memorials and gain a deeper understanding of the events that took place there. Walking through original barracks, guard towers, and memorial sites, your guide will share powerful stories that reveal the human experiences behind its history. A moving experience that is respectful and reflective. DiscoverMORE Secret tales of Kraków (extra expense) Uncover the hidden stories and legends of Kraków on a unique night tour that takes you through the city’s most mysterious and historic sites. As the city lights twinkle, your guide will share fascinating tales of the past, from ghostly legends to the intriguing stories behind Krakow’s iconic landmarks. This enchanting evening adventure offers a different perspective on Kraków, perfect for those seeking to explore the city’s secrets after dark. Duration: 1 hr 30 mins, Activity Level: Moderate

Today, you’ll depart Kraków and journey to Budapest, the historic capital of Hungary, en route passing the Castle of Oravsky Hrad and travelling across the Tatra Mountains and Slovakia. Set along the legendary Danube River, the delightful Hungarian capital, Budapest, seamlessly blends Eastern European heritage with vibrant modernity. Here, enjoy a one-night stay in a centrally-located hotel. EmeraldPLUS Dinner & Folklore Show in Budapest This evening, you’re invited to an exclusive dinner and a traditional folklore show in Budapest, for a truly immersive local experience on your final night.

This morning, after breakfast, you’ll be transferred from your hotel to your contemporary Emerald Star-Ship, where you’ll be warmly welcomed on board by the friendly crew. This evening, join your fellow guests for your first dinner on board. EmeraldPLUS Traditional Hungarian folklore show Enjoy a Hungarian folk dancing and music performance on board.

Wake in Budapest this morning. The Hungarian capital is divided by the iconic Danube River, with Buda and Pest on either side. They can be reached via the Chain Bridge, one of the city’s most symbolic structures. Included Excursion Guided coach tour of Budapest Enjoy a guided tour of the city with your local guide this morning. Explore the World Heritage-listed centre, travelling through the chapters of architecture through the ages from Romanesque to Baroque and classical façades. See the Liberty Statue, Heroes’ Square and the Buda Castle district, before a walking tour showcases Matthias Church and the Fisherman’s Bastion.  EmeraldACTIVE Hike to Gellert Hill Strap on your walking shoes for a beautiful hike up to the World Heritage-listed site of Gellért Hill. On your walk, take in the stunning views of the Danube River and the city’s architecture. You’ll pass landmarks like Várkert Bazaar and beautifully landscaped gardens, making this an unforgettable experience in Budapest. 

Bordering Austria and Hungary, the Slovakian capital is yours to discover today. Set at the crossroads of ancient trade routes in the heart of Europe, the Slovakian capital of Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, is a place where Baroque palaces, boutiques and cafés adorn medieval cobblestone streets. At the same time, the complex history of Communism can be found in its Brutalist landmarks and military monuments. Later tonight, enjoy a waltz show class on board.  Included Excursion Walking tour of Bratislava Your local guide will take you through the heart of the city. Pass by the botanical gardens of the Episcopal Summer Palace, the Old Town Hall and its delightful Renaissance courtyard and the Slovak National Theatre, where busts of famous composers adorn the façade. After your tour, enjoy free time to explore at leisure.  EmeraldPLUS Home-hosted coffee and cake with a Slovakian family Be invited into the home of a local Slovakian family to learn about their culture over coffee and cake. Get an insight into their history, culture and traditions as they show you how they live every day. EmeraldACTIVE Guided hike to Bratislava Castle This active excursion begins at the port of Bratislava, passing the monumental building of the Slovak National Theatre and continuing to the extensive riverside promenade. Admire the Gothic St. Martins Cathedral, the most famous sacral building in Bratislava, climb the hill to Bratislava Castle for panoramic views, see St Michael’s Gate and walk through the main square. DiscoverMORE Skoda tour of post-Communist Bratislava (extra expense) On this truly insightful tour of Bratislava in a Skoda car, you’ll learn about life during the Communist era through real personal stories from your guide and enjoy some local, authentic refreshments from this time. This off-the-beaten-track tour brings alive the story of Bratislava in the turbulent 20th century. Activity level: Easy, Duration: 2 hours DiscoverMORE Carpathian wine route (extra expense) Explore the viticultural towns of the Small Carpathian Wine Route, including the vineyards of Vinosady and a family-run winery in Senkvice. You’ll learn about the proud heritage of winemaking and sample some local wines in a historic wine cellar. Activity level: Moderate, Duration 4hr 40min

Austria’s breathtaking capital is recognised for its cultural legacy. As the former residence of Mozart and Beethoven, a multitude of imperial palaces represent a rich history, and the museum district boasts contemporary buildings, housing the work of some of the world’s most prolific artists. Included Excursion Guided tour of Vienna Explore the famous sights of the Ringstrasse and Vienna’s city centre by coach and on foot, or join a guided e-bike tour. Marvel at the Renaissance-style arches that adorn the façades of the Opera House, the Baroque Burgtheater and the Flemish Gothic Parliament before enjoying time to explore Vienna at leisure. EmeraldACTIVE Guided e-bike tour of Vienna Embark on a guided e-bike tour of Vienna to Danube Island. Your guide will talk about why Vienna is the most liveable city in the world and share personal stories, introducing you to a different side of the city. Visit places other travellers won’t see and experience the authentic Vienna. DiscoverMORE Visit to Schönbrunn Palace (extra expense) Schönbrunn Palace, the former summer residence of the Habsburg Empire, is considered one of the most beautiful Baroque palaces in Europe. Today, it is a recognised World Heritage site for its historic importance, unique grounds and splendid furnishings. Follow a local expert to hear the fascinating tales of the intriguing former residents. Activity level: Easy, Duration: 5 hours DiscoverMORE Viennese evening concert (extra expense) With Mozart, Beethoven, Strauss and Schubert among its historical repertoire, Vienna is the world capital of opera and classical music. Enjoy an exclusive evening concert at one of Vienna’s most beautiful concert halls, with favourites such as the ‘Blue Danube Waltz’ and the Radetzky March. A complimentary glass of sparkling wine on arrival adds to the unforgettable occasion. Activity level: Easy, Duration: 2.5 hours

Dürnstein is known as one of the most enchanting villages in the famed Wachau Valley, the county’s premier wine-growing region. Relax on the Sun Deck as you cruise through the World Heritage-listed Wachau Valley to Melk, nestled in the heart of the Wachau wine region. Melk is home to a 900-year-old World Heritage-listed Benedictine abbey. A charming and compact port, it is filled with flower-lined laneways, colourful buildings and sprawling green spaces. Included Excursion Tour of Melk Abbey Explore this ancient abbey today on an included tour. Your guide will take you through a series of opulent rooms, each adorned with the finest Italian Baroque architecture and ornate gold leaf walls, including the ancient monastic library, renowned for its extensive collection of medieval manuscripts. EmeraldACTIVE Guided hike to Dürnstein Castle Hike to Dürnstein Castle, the site where Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned after returning from the Crusades. Conquer the challenging yet rewarding trail, and you’ll be able to take in the spectacular panoramas of the river and surrounding countryside from the peak. EmeraldACTIVE Guided e-bike tour along the Danube Enjoy an active guided e-bike ride along the Danube from Dürnstein to Melk, passing famous vineyards and quaint towns before settling down for a picnic on the riverbanks. E-bikes will take you smoothly along the 30km (18.64 miles) route through picturesque surroundings, including a relaxing break for a refreshing drink along the way.

Sat on the confluence of the Danube, Inn and Ilz rivers, Passau is a postcard-worthy destination that has been shaped by the surrounding waterways. Maze-like romantic lanes weave through the city, opening up into large squares and magical promenades adorned with classical boutiques. Included Excursion Guided tour of Passau On this morning’s walking tour, stroll through streets lined by Baroque buildings dating back to the 17th century and look at the Gothic Town Hall, Bishop’s Residence and St. Stephen’s Cathedral, a wonderful example of Baroque architecture and home to the largest church organ in Europe. DiscoverMORE Excursion to Salzburg (extra expense) The birthplace of Mozart and the picturesque setting for the theatrical masterpiece, The Sound of Music, Salzburg has a unique charm and is surrounded by the breathtaking Alps. Spend a full day exploring this Austrian city, wandering its historic downtown district, exploring the Linzer Gasse shopping street and visiting the home of Mozart. Activity level: Easy, Duration: 10 hours DiscoverMORE Excursion to Ceský Krumlov (extra expense) Tucked away in the Czech region of South Bohemia is the World Heritage-listed medieval town of Ceský Krumlov, renowned for its Renaissance and Baroque architecture. Your expert local guide will take you along the cobblestone streets of Ceský Krumlov’s fairytale-like Old Town, which wind their way past old townhouses, hideaway bars, and buildings dating back hundreds of years. Activity level: Difficult/Active, Duration: 8.5 hours

Cruise the fascinating Main-Danube Canal to Regensburg today. As you continue down the Danube, one of Germany’s best-preserved medieval cities welcomes you with two millennia of history. Despite its ancient past, modern-day Regensburg has a relaxed atmosphere with its streets made lively by the high population of university students. Return for lunch on board and an afternoon peacefully cruising along the Danube. Included Excursion Guided tour of Regensburg Set out on foot to discover the highlights of Regensburg. Wander the streets with your guide, as the romantic narrow alleys of the World Heritage-listed Old Town and 13th-century Town Hall invite you to live through the city’s history. The highlight of your tour will be the 12th-century Stone Bridge, a medieval structure crossing the Danube. Enjoy time to explore Regensburg at leisure. EmeraldPLUS Bavarian band performance on board Make your way to the Horizon Bar & Lounge for a special performance from a Bavarian band, who will play traditional music and wear their authentic Lederhosen.

Welcome to Nuremberg. The second-largest city in Bavaria, it has a fascinating and complex history, from its position of power in the Middle Ages to the artistic flourishes of the Renaissance.  Included Excursion Guided tour of Nuremberg Embark on a sightseeing tour of the historic city of Nuremberg, including the architectural wonders that have inspired famous artists for centuries and see the effects that the war years had. After your tour, enjoy time to explore Nuremberg at leisure, passing half-timbered houses that were beautifully reconstructed following the war.  DiscoverMORE World War II tour (extra expense) Nuremberg offers fascinating insights into the events of World War II, with mementos of the war found around every corner. This insightful tour highlights some of the main events that took place during Germanys Nazi regime, with a visit to the Nazi Rally grounds, a panoramic drive through the city and a tour of the famous Courtroom 600, where the War Crimes trials were held. Activity level: Easy, Duration: 4 hours

The World Heritage-listed town of Bamberg is your destination today. Boasting one of the largest medieval centres in Europe, with around 2,400 listed buildings gracing its streets.  Included Excursion Guided tour of Bamberg Feel the magic of the past as you explore the city with your local guide, marvelling at the opulence of the New Residence, once inhabited by the prince bishops and now home to a plethora of old German and Baroque paintings from the Bavarian State collection. Enjoy a tranquil stroll around the Rose Garden to round your day off peacefully.

Known as the ‘Pearl of the Romantic Road’, Würzburg is the centre wine capital of Franconia, a position it has held since the Middle Ages. Situated on the Main River, this Franconian city is celebrated for its stunning architecture, vibrant culture and historical significance.  Included Excursion  Walking tour of Würzburg and a visit to the Bishop’s Residence The architects behind the World Heritage-listed Würzburg Residence drew inspiration from a spectrum of different styles, including Viennese Baroque and secular features from Italy, but it was heavily damaged during WWII. Enjoy learning about how this impressive building was restored to its former glory on a guided tour DiscoverMORE Excursion to Rothenburg (extra expense) Explore the best-preserved medieval town in Germany. Walk its medieval walls and climb to the top of the Town Hall Tower for a panoramic view of the town and countryside. Rothenburg offers a selection of Gothic churches, museums, art exhibitions and historic restaurants where you will enjoy a special tasting of local sausages. Please note, this operates at the same time as your included tour. Activity level: Moderate, Duration: 6.5 hours

Make a brief stop in Wertheim before arriving in Miltenberg, a picturesque village on the Main River, boasting an authentic atmosphere of medieval Bavaria with its 15th-century half-timbered buildings. Set on the banks of the Main River, it was a major trade hub for centuries, but today has a relaxed ambience and hidden charms waiting around every crooked corner.   Included Excursion Guided tour of Miltenberg Join your local guide to stroll down the cobblestone streets lined with colourful houses and view the Gothic Merchant Hall, an impressive symbol of past affluence. You’ll see the oldest inn in Germany, dating back to at least 1411, Miltenberg Castle, and the unique red sandstone church and bridge.  EmeraldPLUS Visit to Bronnbach Abbey Experience the rich history and serene beauty of Bronnbach Abbey in nearby Wertheim. This well-preserved Cistercian monastery is known for its stunning Romanesque and Gothic architecture, peaceful cloisters, and impressive Baroque interiors. EmeraldACTIVE Active Walk to Mildenburg Castle Enjoy an active walk through the forest to the 12th-century Mildenburg Castle. This iconic landmark was once lost to time and now houses a wonderful collection of contemporary art and old masters.

Arrive in Rüdesheim today, a town with a vibrant wine-growing heritage. At the heart of the Rhine Valley, it’s surrounded by terraced vineyards and filled with striking half-timbered buildings. This afternoon will be a highlight of your trip, as you meander through the fairy tale-like surrounds of the World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge. Hilltop castles and fortresses that have stood for more than 1,000 years will be yours to admire as we traverse this legendary stretch of river. Pass the infamous Lorelai Rock, where sailors are said to have been lured onto treacherous rocks by an enchanting siren, and the impressive Pfalzgrafenstein Castle, a former stronghold. Included Excursion Visit to Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet Museum Catch the local mini train through the narrow city streets to Siegfrieds Mechanical Music Cabinet Museum. Inside, discover a vast selection of more than 350 automatic mechanical music instruments ranging from the tiniest music box to the giant Concert-Piano-Orchestrion. EmeraldACTIVE Active Walk to Niederwalddenkmal Enjoy an active hike through verdant vineyards to the Niederwalddenkmal, a 19th-century monument that celebrates the unification of Germany. From the top, enjoy the awe-inspiring panoramic views over Rüdesheims old town and the shimmering waters of the Rhine. DiscoverMORE Eberbach Abbey with wine tasting (extra expense) Founded in 1136 by St. Bernard of Clairvaux, Eberbach Abbey is one of the best-preserved medieval monasteries in the Rheingau Region and boasts the largest medieval vineyard in the country. During your visit, youll have the opportunity to indulge in a Riesling wine tasting, experiencing the vibrant flavours of the region. Activity level: Easy, Duration: 3.5 hours DiscoverMORE German beer experience (extra expense) Join us for a beer garden experience in Koblenz in a relaxed and social ambience. It’s a great chance for locals and visitors to sit together, chatting and enjoying the fresh air, with views of the Rhine nearby. Feel the spirit of the everyday German culture. Activity level: Moderate, Duration: 2 hours

Cruise along the Rhine from Koblenz to Cologne this morning. Founded by the Romans in 50 AD, the cathedral city of Cologne is one of the oldest cities in Germany and the largest on the Rhine. The historic capital of the Rhineland, this illustrious city is generously peppered with ancient architecture, from Roman ruins to medieval structures and the striking twin towers of the cathedral. Though much of the inner city was destroyed during World War II, it has been meticulously rebuilt.  Included Excursion Quest for Cologne’s treasures Join your local guide and explore the city on a walking tour, followed by a unique adventure that will take you hunting for some of Cologne’s most typical treasures. You’ll be given a map with locations to find the ‘treasures’, which are unique to the city.

Beyond Amsterdam’s storied canals, a gentler rhythm unfolds as you venture into the Dutch countryside, where emerald-green pastures, mirror-like waterways and centuries-old windmills paint an impossibly picturesque scene. From charming towns like Alkmaar, famed for its historic cheese-making traditions, to Waterland, where pretty, stilted villages, glassy lakes and narrow canals offer a glimpse into traditional Dutch life, discover how the Dutch have shaped their landscape for generations.  Included Excursion Timeless Dutch countryside Step beyond the city and discover the authentic rhythm of the Dutch countryside. Wander through charming villages, see working windmills and meet locals keeping age-old traditions alive. Watch daily life unfold as you experience the simple pleasures of life surrounded by Holland’s heritage, hospitality and heart.  EmeraldACTIVE Guided e-bike tour to Waterland Embark on a guided e-bike tour to Waterland, passing quintessential villages, traditional windmills and fields that are bursting with colour.  DiscoverMORE Hidden Gems Tour of Amsterdam (extra expense) Explore a quieter, more authentic side of Amsterdam on this relaxed and personal tour. Travel to the historic Jordaan area to walk with your local guide to a charming chocolate shop. Continue through some of the city’s most beautiful streets to Our Lord in the Attic, a unique 17th-century house that hides a secret: a fully preserved Catholic church in its attic. Enjoy a local beer and some traditional Dutch snacks at a cosy brewery before you return to the ship. Activity level: Moderate, Duration: 2.5 hours

After breakfast, it’s time to say farewell to your fellow guests and depart your Emerald Star-Ship for your transfer to the airport, taking memories of the postcard-worthy Rhine Gorge and idyllic Dutch countryside with you.   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.