Leave USA for Europe

Check into your centrally located hotel in Berlin, your home for the next three nights.

This morning, join your local guide for a walking tour of Berlin, passing by the famous Alexander Platz, the iconic Brandenburg Gate, and the Berlin Wall, a symbolic monument that portrays the division for nearly three decades and then the reunion of the city. This afternoon, you’re free to explore this intriguing capital at leisure, perhaps discovering the creative lifestyles of the Berlin residents and the vibrant arts scene or savoring one of the many chic restaurants. Meal: B

oday, you’ll have the opportunity to explore Berlin at your own pace. You may wish to discover more of the historic architecture and modern landmarks found in numerous places across the German capital, including the renowned, industrial heritage buildings. There are also several excellent museums worth visiting, including Berlin’s Museum Island. Or you could immerse yourself in the popular food markets in the city’s market halls, or browse the luxury shops along Kurfürstendamm, one of Berlin’s most famous avenues. Meal: B

DiscoverMORE: Guided tour of Potsdam (additional expense)

After breakfast, fly to Frankfurt and be transferred to the luxurious surrounds of your Emerald Cruises Star-Ship in Mainz. This evening, join your fellow travelers for dinner on board. Meals: B, D

This morning, enjoy an active hike through verdant vineyards to the Niederwalddenkmal, a stunning monument located in the Niederwald, near Rüdesheim am Rhein, in the German state of Hesse. This historical landmark overlooks the scenic Rhine Valley and was built in the late 1800s to commemorate the Unification of Germany. In the afternoon, visit the 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 is a must for wine lovers and those who appreciate typical vineyard landscapes. Meals: B, L, D

EmeraldPLUS: Visit to Schloss Johannisberg Winery
EmeraldACTIVE: Hike to Niederwalddenkmal

Start your fascinating day with a stroll through the picturesque town of Bernkastel. Founded around 3,000 B.C., Bernkastel is nestled along the banks of the Moselle River and home to well-preserved buildings that date back to 1416 A.D. Embark on a guided walking tour, where you’ll have the opportunity to stroll through the medieval marketplace which reveals timber-framed houses, castle ruins and a town gate. Alternatively, join an active hike to the Landshut Castle Ruins, majestically perched atop a rocky ledge. Meals: B, L, D

EmeraldACTIVE: Guided hike tour to Landshut Castle Ruins
DiscoverMORE: Wine Experience in Bernkastel (additional expense)

In southwest Germany, close to the border of Luxemburg, the city of Trier, founded by the Romans in the late 1st century B.C., is a hidden treasure and is often referred to as the ‘Rome of the North’. During today’s guided tour, explore the ruins of the old city baths, a hive of activity during ancient times, and the Porta Nigra, the best-preserved Roman city gate north of the Alps. Meals: B, L, D

Today, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy the enchanting town of Cochem, as you join a guided tour of its well-preserved sites. You’ll witness the remains of the historic town wall with its old fortifications, as well as the town hall and many other gems.

Alternatively, if you feel more active, join a guided bike tour around Cochem, where you’ll cycle through scenic landscapes, lush vine-yards, and charming riverside pathways that reveal the striking natural beauty of this region.

In the evening, as part of your EmeraldPLUS experience, you’ll have the opportunity to visit the Imperial Castle, which stands majestically over the Moselle River valley. This is a wonderful invitation for every history and culture enthusiast to appreciate one of the highest hill castles along the Moselle River. Meals: B, L, D

EmeraldACTIVE: Guided bike tour near Cochem
EmeraldPLUS: Cochem Castle visit with entertainment
DiscoverMORE: Grand-Prix car race experience (additional expense)
DiscoverMORE: Moselle hike and wine-tasting at Hieronimi (additional expense)

Today, embark on a walking tour through Koblenz, a city steeped in history and brimming with fascinating landmarks. As you explore the city’s historic streets, you can observe the blend of old and new that defines this vibrant urban scape. Afterward, visit a traditional beer garden, a beloved local spot in Germany. Beer gardens represent the heart of social life here, where friends and families gather to unwind and connect. The casual setting reflects a time-honored culture that values community and camaraderie, making it the perfect place to experience the local German way of life while enjoying a refreshing beverage. Meals: B, L, D

Your day will start with a guided tour of Mainz and a visit to the impressive sandstone cathedral of the stunning Old Town, which reveals medieval market squares and well-preserved, half-timbered houses. The town is famous 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. Meals: B, L, D

DiscoverMORE: Visit to Eberbach Abbey & wine tasting (additional expense)
DiscoverMORE: Gutenberg Museum visit & workshop (additional expense)

This morning after breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to your fellow guests and disembark your Star-Ship for your transfer to the airport, leaving you with cherished memories of the wondrous treasures of this charming waterway. Please book your flight to depart out of Frankfurt after noon. Meal: B