European Masterpiece: the Rhine, Seine and Rhône Revealed with 2 Nights in Lucerne 2027

Begin your multi-day adventure in the enchanting Swiss city of Lucerne, nestled along the Reuss River. Settle into your comfortable accommodation (Radisson Blu Lucerne or similar) and enjoy the freedom to wander through charming squares, admire historic churches, or indulge in some shopping in the vibrant city center. Experience the harmonious blend of tradition and modernity that defines Lucerne.

Awaken to a delightful breakfast before joining a guided exploration of Lucerne’s most iconic landmarks. Stroll through the atmospheric Old Town, traverse the famed Chapel Bridge, marvel at the medieval Water Tower, and visit the elegant Jesuit Church. The day is filled with cultural discoveries and the timeless beauty of Lucerne’s historic heart.

After breakfast, embark on a scenic journey to Basel, pausing for a breathtaking excursion to Mount Pilatus (or Mount Stanserhorn, depending on the season) for panoramic views of central Switzerland. In case of inclement weather, immerse yourself in the fascinating exhibits at the Swiss Transport Museum. Upon arrival in Basel, board your luxurious Suite Ship® and prepare for an evening cruise to Breisach, enjoying dinner and the anticipation of new adventures.

Wake up in Breisach, gateway to Germany’s renowned Black Forest. Choose between an invigorating e-bike tour or a full-day guided exploration of the Black Forest, including the fascinating Vogtsbauernhof Open-Air Museum and a traditional butter-making demonstration. Alternatively, discover the medieval charm of Freiburg or opt for a morning visit to the picturesque French town of Colmar. As evening falls, your ship sets sail for Kehl, where you’ll enjoy a restful night onboard.

Today, immerse yourself in the vibrant city of Strasbourg. Cycle through the city or join a guided sightseeing tour that unveils the grandeur of the Gothic cathedral and the enchanting La Petite France district. Optional excursions include a journey to the historic Maginot Line or a visit to the celebrated vineyards of Alsace. Enjoy leisure time to explore museums or stroll the city center before your ship continues to Ludwigshafen.

Set out from Ludwigshafen for a day of discovery in Heidelberg. Choose between a scenic walk along the Philosophers’ Way or a guided tour of the majestic Heidelberg Castle, home to the world’s largest wine barrel. Alternatively, visit the elegant Schwetzingen Palace and its splendid gardens. Spend the afternoon sailing to Rüdesheim, where you’ll dock for the night.

Experience the heart of wine country in Rüdesheim with a guided hike through lush vineyards or a visit to the fascinating Mechanical Music Museum. Savor a tasting of authentic Rüdesheimer coffee or enjoy a wine tasting at the historic Johannisberg Castle. As your ship glides through the UNESCO-listed Rhine Gorge, marvel at ancient castles and the legendary Lorelei Rock before arriving in Koblenz, where you can explore the city’s rich history and enjoy live entertainment onboard.

Arrive in Cologne and choose between a leisurely bike ride, a guided walk through the city’s significant Jewish heritage sites, or a city tour highlighting the awe-inspiring twin spires of Cologne Cathedral. Enjoy some free time to sample the local Kölsch beer before your ship departs for Amsterdam, promising another evening of comfort and fine dining onboard.

Discover the vibrant city of Amsterdam with a morning walk or a guided tour through its picturesque streets. Glide along the iconic canals on a scenic cruise, admiring the elegant homes of the city’s Golden Age. During tulip season, opt for an excursion to the breathtaking Keukenhof Gardens, or explore the Dutch countryside by bike. Enjoy free time to soak in the lively atmosphere, unique shops, and galleries before another restful night aboard your ship.

Board a high-speed train from Amsterdam to the romantic city of Paris. Settle into your Suite Ship® and enjoy a delectable dinner onboard as you prepare for your journey along the Seine. Experience the magic of Paris from the comfort of your floating hotel (Avalon Suite Ship® or similar).

Set out from Paris for a day immersed in art and history. Cycle through the Normandy countryside to Giverny, where you’ll visit Monet’s enchanting home and gardens, or tour the magnificent Bizy Castle. After a traditional French luncheon onboard, cruise to Les Andelys and choose between a hike to the dramatic ruins of Château Gaillard or a guided stroll through one of the Seine’s most picturesque towns. Enjoy live entertainment as your ship sails onward.

Enjoy a leisurely bike ride along the Seine or embark on a guided journey along the Normandy Abbeys Route, discovering centuries-old Benedictine and Augustine abbeys. In the afternoon, consider an optional excursion to the charming seaside town of Honfleur. Return to your ship for an engaging onboard lecture about the events surrounding the Normandy landings, followed by live entertainment.

Today, pay tribute to history with a guided tour of Normandy’s WWII landing beaches, including Omaha Beach, Pointe du Hoc, and the American Cemetery. Alternatively, explore British and Canadian commemorative sites or savor the flavors of Normandy with a brandy tasting in Calvados. As evening approaches, your ship cruises to Rouen, where you’ll enjoy dinner and reflection on a day of remembrance.

Explore Rouen’s rich tapestry of history with a guided bike tour or a walking tour that reveals the city’s medieval quarter, the site of Joan of Arc’s martyrdom, the 16th-century Astronomical Clock, and the magnificent Notre-Dame Cathedral. As evening falls, your ship sails to Conflans-Sainte-Honorine, offering another night of comfort and fine cuisine.

Follow in the footsteps of artistic and historical legends with a visit to Auvers-sur-Oise, final resting place of Vincent van Gogh, or tour the opulent Château de Malmaison, once home to Napoleon and Josephine. Alternatively, opt for an excursion to the grand Palace of Versailles. As the afternoon unfolds, your ship returns to Paris, where you’ll enjoy another evening of entertainment and relaxation.

Experience the essence of Paris with a guided walk through its ancient heart, featuring the Palais-Royal, the iconic Louvre Pyramid, the historic Île de la Cité, and the lively Latin Quarter. Alternatively, join a panoramic city tour that showcases the city’s most celebrated landmarks. Enjoy free time to explore Parisian cafés, galleries, and boutiques, soaking in the city’s romantic ambiance.

Board the TGV train for a swift and comfortable journey to Lyon, where your Suite Ship® awaits. Settle in for an overnight stay in this gastronomic capital, ready to explore the city’s rich heritage and culinary delights.

Discover Lyon’s architectural wonders by bike or join a guided sightseeing tour that takes you to the panoramic heights of Fourvière Hill and through the atmospheric Old Town, with its bustling cafés and medieval alleyways. In the evening, enjoy an enlightening onboard lecture about Lyon’s role in WWII and the French Resistance, followed by live entertainment.

Delve into Lyon’s storied silk heritage with a museum visit and a walking tour of La Presqu’île, including a live demonstration of traditional silk printing. As your ship sails to Mâcon, enjoy a pastry demonstration and live entertainment onboard, savoring the sweet side of French culture.

Venture into the rolling hills of the Mâconnais region to discover world-renowned Chardonnay vineyards. Enjoy an exclusive wine tasting in the cellars of a medieval castle before your ship continues its journey to Tournon-sur-Rhône, where you’ll spend the night.

Explore one of France’s oldest medieval cities with a guided walk through Tournon-sur-Rhône, visiting its 16th-century castle and Roman ruins. After lunch, sail to Viviers and discover its pale-stone buildings, Romanesque cathedral, and the atmospheric Old Town, where centuries of history come alive.

Arrive in Avignon and choose between a guided bike tour or a sightseeing tour that reveals the city’s medieval ramparts and the awe-inspiring Palace of the Popes. Optional excursions include a visit to the ancient Pont du Gard aqueduct or a tasting in the renowned wine cellars of Châteauneuf-du-Pape. Capture the beauty of Avignon before your ship sails to Arles for the night.

Begin your day with a power walk or participate in a painting workshop inspired by Vincent van Gogh. Alternatively, join a guided walking tour of Arles, visiting the impressive Roman Amphitheater and soaking up the city’s Provençal charm. Enjoy free time to relax at Le Café van Gogh before your final night onboard.

Conclude your extraordinary journey with a final breakfast in Arles. Bid farewell to your fellow travelers and transfer to Marseille airport for your onward flight, carrying with you unforgettable memories of your multi-country adventure.