Arrive at Zürich International Airport and meet your AHI Travel Representative who will escort you to the river ship in Basel. Depart Basel and cruise for Strasbourg, France. Later, gather with your fellow travelers at the Captain’s Welcome Reception and Dinner and get better acquainted.

Arrive in the capital of France’s Alsace region. This morning’s choices all include a visit to the Gothic Notre Dame Cathedral. Choose from (1) a scenic/walking tour to see historic Strasbourg’s highlights, (2) a canal cruise and walking tour in the colorful Petite France district, or (3) an Alsatian culinary tour to Strasbourg’s winstubs, small wine pubs and local shops, plus a visit to Notre Dame Cathedral. During free time this afternoon, catch a complimentary shuttle between the ship and city center.

On a stroll through one of Germany’s oldest cities, marvel at Speyer’s Romanesque cathedral, the burial place of emperors for almost 300 years, and walk under the 13th-century Old Gate, once part of the town’s fortification walls. After lunch on board, cruise to Mannheim. In Heidelberg, select from (1) a visit to the red-walled, hilltop castle and romantic historic quarter, or (2) a hike up the picturesque Philosopher’s Way to take in fabulous views of the castle, town and river.

In Rüdesheim, enjoy a guided, panoramic tour of Old Town via train, followed by your choice of (1) a tasting at a winery, or (2) a visit to a captivating museum of self-playing mechanical musical instruments. Afterward, sail through the stunning Rhine Gorge, dotted with some 40 castles and fortress ruins, and learn about Rhine legends. Cruise to Koblenz, where the Romans founded a settlement more than 2,000 years ago, and meander with your guide through its cobblestone squares and lanes.

Admire lovely villages and tiered vineyards while cruising a narrow stretch of the Moselle River to Cochem. On board, today’s lunch features traditional German fare served with pretzels, mustards and beer. Beautifully situated along the river, Cochem charms with half-timbered houses, winding streets and Reichsburg Castle high above town. Discover landmarks and folklore on a walk, then tour the hilltop castle and gaze out over the Moselle Valley.

Arrive today in Cologne, which takes pride in its extraordinary Gothic cathedral, topped by two ornate towers and built over a period of more than 600 years. During a guided Old Town walk, take in the cathedral’s impressive exterior, and then step inside to see the stone columns soaring toward the vaulted ceiling. Afterward, shop or linger in a café. While sailing to the Netherlands tonight, share in a festive Farewell Reception and Dinner.

Today, select from (1) a panoramic tour followed by a guided visit to the acclaimed Rijksmuseum to view celebrated art by 17th-century Dutch masters like Rembrandt, (2) a bike ride through lush Waterland made up of nine historical villages outside Amsterdam, or (3) a Canal District guided walking tour of the Herengracht and a visit to the Museum of the Canals. Join a discussion with a local expert about contemporary Europe before hopping aboard a canal cruiser this evening to see this beguiling city from the water.

After breakfast, bid farewell to your fellow travelers. Disembark the ship and transfer to the airport for your return flight home.

NOTE: Itinerary may change due to local conditions.