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Zurich - Lucerne & Christmas Markets on the Rhine

Emerald Cruises Emerald Star
Date 5th Dec 27
Nights 10 Nights
No local tax due
1
Zurich
You will be transferred from the airport to the city of Zurich, one of the most beloved cities in Switzerland. After settling to your hotel, you will be able to explore the city at leisure, perhaps taking in its delightful lakeside setting or strolling around its multiples small Christmas stalls and markets. Included is a restful one-night stay in Zurich.
2
Zurich - Lucerne
This morning, enjoy a walking tour of Zurich before you are transferred to Lucerne, an area known for its spectacular natural setting. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure to explore the city which becomes even more charming during the Christmas season! Get yourself immersed into the many lights and handicrafts which decorate the old town and end the day at the small Christmas markets where mulled wine and other typical Christmas treats are yours to enjoy.
3
Lucerne
The awe-inspiring natural beauty enveloping Lucerne is a true delight, and yours to discover today during a guided tour of this small city. Lucerne effortlessly reflects what most people imagine when they think of a Swiss city, with a backdrop of snow-capped mountain ranges and tree-lined boulevards cutting through the city centre. Enjoy learning about the history of Lucerne as you visit the well-preserved medieval Altstadt, Chapel Bridge and the octagonal Water Tower.
4
Lucerne - Basel
After breakfast, journey by coach through idyllic landscapes as you carve a course to the Rhine-side town of Basel. When you arrive, you will be able to board your Emerald Cruises Star-Ship, where your friendly captain and crew will be waiting to welcome you. This evening, join your fellow guests for dinner on board.
5
Breisach
Today, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the Rhine town of Breisach. Entrenched between two countries, it’s also known as the gateway to Germany’s Black Forest region. In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic drive through the Black Forest Highlands on your way to the Hofgut Sternen complex located at the foothill of Ravenna Gorge, a place where history and tradition merge. It was here that in 1770 Marie Antoinette stopped with 52 beautifully decorated carriages on the way to her wedding to King Louis XVI. As part of your EmeraldPLUS programme, you’ll also have the chance to see the postcard-worthy Christmas market situated underneath the 40-metre-high Ravenna Viaduct. Be amazed by the magical aroma of Black Forest specialties and unique handcrafted regional products sold there.
6
Kehl – Strasbourg
This morning, we’ll dock in Kehl, and you’ll be transferred by coach across the river to Strasbourg, the storied capital of France’s Alsace region. Your guided tour of Strasbourg will include the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Grande Île, the historical centre of the city, known for its medieval half-timbered buildings, old tanning houses, Baroque sandstone buildings and charming canal system. Afterwards, you’ll have the opportunity to visit one of its most charming Christmas markets, where you can enjoy traditional Alsatian Christmas treats and shop for presents and stocking-fillers.
7
Mannheim (Heidelberg)
Your guided tour of Heidelberg’s rich history includes a visit to the ruins of Heidelberg Castle, which overlooks the Rhine River and a red-roofed skyline. Some of the most successful painters of the Romantic era drew inspiration from Heidelberg Castle, including British artist William Turner, who depicted images of the ruins in several of his paintings. Afterwards, stroll down the cobbled streets of the Old Town, touching on the Church of the Holy Spirit and the oldest university in Germany.
8
Koblenz
Today, we’ll take you into the heart of Koblenz, an ancient city pulled from the pages of a German fairy tale. Enjoy the picturesque backdrop of vineyards and snow-topped mountain ranges as your local guide takes you through open cobbled squares and down narrow streets
9
Cologne - Duesseldorf
We sail towards Cologne, where you’ll have the opportunity to see the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cologne Cathedral. In the afternoon, you will have the chance to visit Duesseldorf and its many Christmas markets, each having its unique name and personality – such as the Fairytale Market, the Handwerker (hand maker) Market and the Schadowmarket where any present wish could easily be fulfilled and more. All of that with a Christmas scent of roasted almonds and hot mulled wine floating in the air.
10
Amsterdam
Board a glass-top canal boat for a tour down the Dutch capital’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed canal system, passing historic merchant houses that reflect the bygone era of the Dutch Golden Age, a time when the Dutch empire was considered one of the most influential in the world. Throughout the city, you’ll explore the delightful Christmas stalls, each surrounded by people in their finest knitwear drinking hot mugs of mulled wine and enjoying traditional festive foods.
11
Amsterdam
After breakfast, bid farewell to your fellow guests and Star-Ship as you are transferred to the airport, taking memories of quintessential German villages and the magic of Christmas with you.
Why Book
Why Book
  •  Riviera Deck Stateroom From £3,660pp
  • Horizon Deck Grand balcony suite from £4,451pp
  • 7 nights on board an Emerald Cruises Star-Ship
  • Airport transfers to and from your Star-Ship
  • The services of an Emerald Cruises cruise director
  • Port taxes and charges
  • All tipping and gratuities
  • Guided tour of Breisach and Christmas market visit
  • Guided tour of Strasbourg and Christmas market visit
  • Guided tour of Heidelberg and Christmas market visit
  • Cologne Christmas markets & beer experience
  • Orientation walk of Koblenz and Christmas market visit
  • Walking tour of Duesseldorf and Christmas market visit Canal cruise
  • Guided visit to the Christmas market at Ravenna Viaduct
  • 20 delectable meals including 7 breakfasts (B), 6 lunches (L), 7 dinners (D)
  • Including a Welcome and Farewell Reception & Dinner
  • Complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks served with lunch and dinner on board
  • 1 night at a hotel in Zurich
  • 2 nights at a hotel in Lucerne
  • A guided tour of Zurich
  • A guided tour of Lucerne
  • Transfer from the airport and to the ship

Get in touch now to book this deal or make an enquiry

Background
Emerald Star
Overview

Discover the stunning European rivers with mesmerising views from your accommodation, the Sun Deck, The Terrace, and the Horizon Bar & Lounge.

Emerald Star
Emerald Star - Reflections Restaurant Emerald Star - Reflections Restaurant Emerald Star - Reflections Restaurant Emerald Star - Reflections Restaurant Emerald Star - Reflections Restaurant Emerald Star - Reflections Restaurant Emerald Star - Reflections Restaurant Emerald Star - Reflections Restaurant Emerald Star - Reflections Restaurant Emerald Star - Reflections Restaurant Emerald Star - Reflections Restaurant Emerald Star - Reflections Restaurant Emerald Star - Reflections Restaurant Emerald Star - Reflections Restaurant Emerald Star - The Terrace Emerald Star - The Terrace Emerald Star - The Terrace Emerald Star - The Terrace Emerald Star - Sky Barbecue Emerald Star - Healthy Dining
Food & Drink

Delectable dining on board our Star-Ships

Nothing beats sipping on your favourite drink at the Terrace as you watch the stunning scenery pass you by. Setting the benchmark in on board dining, the Reflections Restaurant is an elegant space to enjoy exquisite culinary experiences, imbued with continental flavours.

Explore the unique flavours of the regions you sail through

We believe that food should reflect local flavours, which is why our menus take inspiration from the regions we sail in. Our chefs source local ingredients, creating meals that capture authentic cuisine no matter where your journey takes you.

Entertainment

Relax and connect on board in the inviting social spaces

From the chilled and relaxed vibe of the Horizon Bar & Lounge to the open-air surrounds of the Sun Deck, you’ll find plenty of spaces on board to enjoy the company of new-found friends.

Emerald Star - Daytime Pool & Bar/Evening Cinema Emerald Star - Daytime Pool & Bar/Evening Cinema Emerald Star - Horizon Bar and Lounge Emerald Star - Horizon Bar and Lounge Emerald Star - Horizon Bar and Lounge Emerald Star - Horizon Bar and Lounge Emerald Star - Horizon Bar and Lounge Emerald Star - Sun Deck Emerald Star - Sun Deck Emerald Star - Sun Deck Emerald Star - Sun Deck Emerald Star - Sun Deck Emerald Star - Sun Deck Emerald Star - Reception Emerald Star - Reception Emerald Star - The Wheelhouse
Emerald Star - Pool Emerald Star - Pool Emerald Star - Pool Emerald Star - Pool Emerald Star - Fitness Area Emerald Star - Walking Track Emerald Star - Wellness Area Emerald Star - Hairdressers Emerald Star - Hairdressers
Health & Fitness

Discover Europe with EmeraldACTIVE

If you want to feed your body and mind during your cruise, we’ve got you covered with EmeraldACTIVE. During your Rhine, Moselle, Main, Rhône, Danube, or Douro cruise, our activity managers will be on hand to help you stay active during your voyage.

For mind, body & soul

Discover new ways to keep up your current fitness regime and wellbeing exercises, with fun activities, expert-led workout sessions, or a rejuvenating spa treatment^.

^Additional cost.

Terms & Conditions
Advertised offers are based on 2 adults sharing the lowest category stateroom/cabin/suite unless otherwise stated. Single supplements may apply. Offers are subject to availability and can change without any prior notice and may go up or down in price. Cruise Line campaign(s) and saving messages are strictly controlled by the Cruise Line(s) and are subject to change or be withdrawn without notice. Flight inclusive packages, where promoted, are based on the cheapest UK departure airport so please ask for further details. Advertised hotels, if any, are suggested however are changeable at a possible additional cost.  All prices and port itineraries are correct at the time of print but are subject to change by the Cruise Line(s) without prior notice. Hays Travel reserves the right to correct any errors or omissions in this brochure. Some ports of call may be tendered whereas vessels drop anchor a short distance away and use small boats to reach the shore. Full board to all-inclusive inclusions vary by the Cruise Line(s) and restrictions may apply. Some onboard facilities and items may incur a charge. Select destinations may require travel authorisation for visa-exempt travellers to be completed prior to travelling. Hays Travel LTD excepts no responsibility or compensation for any incomplete forms or declined entries from the respective country or countries that the individual(s) are visiting.
Zurich - Lucerne & Christmas Markets on the Rhine
Emerald Star
5th Dec 27
10 Nights
From
£3,660PP
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