PARIS TO PRAGUE & The Splendours of Europe River Cruise

Enjoy a guided sightseeing tour of Paris, taking in iconic landmarks including Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Arc de Triomphe and the Champs-Élysées. Later, cruise along the Seine for wonderful views of the Eiffel Tower and city skyline.

Today is a full day at leisure to explore Paris independently. Your Tour Manager will be available to assist with planning.

After breakfast, transfer to Amsterdam to board your Emerald Cruises Star-Ship. Meet the captain and crew and enjoy dinner on board as your European river cruise begins.

Cruise: Emerald Luna for 14 nights in a Panorama Balcony Stateroom

Choose between a glass-top canal cruise through Amsterdam’s UNESCO-listed waterways or a guided bike tour to Waterland, passing historic villages and windmills. This afternoon, sail through the Dutch countryside towards the Rhine River.

Discover Cologne, one of Germany’s oldest cities, on a guided tour highlighting Roman ruins, medieval architecture and the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Set sail through the enchanting Rhine Gorge, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed area filled with hilltop castles and fortresses. Admire the Lorelai Rock, famous for its lore of enchanting sirens luring sailors, and the impressive Pfalzgrafenstein Castle. Arrive in Rüdesheim, a town steeped in a vibrant wine-growing heritage. Choose between riding on the Winzerexpress and visiting Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet Museum or embarking on an active hike to Niederwalddenkmal. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and immerse yourself in the local culture.

Welcome to Miltenberg, a picturesque village exuding medieval Bavarian charm with its half-timbered buildings. Take an included walking tour through cobblestone streets, admire the colourful houses, and visit the Gothic Merchant Hall. Alternatively, embark on an active walk through the forest to Mildenburg Castle, which now houses a remarkable collection of contemporary art and old masters. Later, venture to the charming town of Wertheim for an exclusive glassblowing presentation at the Glass Art Museum.

Discover Würzburg, known as the “Pearl of the Romantic Road.” This city is surrounded by sloping vineyard-laden hills and boasts the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Würzburg Residence. Marvel at the architectural marvels of this opulent palace, blending Viennese Baroque and Italian influences. Learn about the restoration efforts following WWII, which brought the building back to its former glory. Immerse yourself in the history and beauty of this remarkable place.

Indulge in relaxation on the Sun Deck or enjoy the panoramic views from your cabin as you cruise to Bamberg. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed town features one of the largest medieval centres in Europe, with over 2,400 listed buildings. Join a local guide to explore the city’s highlights, including the opulent New Residence, once home to prince bishops and now housing a collection of German and Baroque paintings. Take a tranquil stroll around the Rose Garden and immerse yourself in the magical atmosphere of Bamberg’s past.

Embark on a sightseeing tour of Nuremberg, a city with a rich history and architectural wonders that have inspired artists for centuries. Explore the effects of the war years and witness the beautifully reconstructed half-timbered houses. After the tour, enjoy some leisure time to explore Nuremberg at your own pace, stroll through its charming streets, and discover its unique shops and cafes.

Sail the final stretch of the Main-Danube Canal and arrive in Regensburg, one of Germany’s best-preserved medieval cities. Follow your knowledgeable guide through the romantic narrow alleys of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town. Discover the fascinating Old Town Hall, a complex consisting of the Town Hall Tower, the Imperial Chamber building, and the Town Hall itself. Marvel at the 12th-century Stone Bridge, a medieval structure crossing the Danube. After the guided tour, enjoy free time to explore Regensburg further or relax on board the Star-Ship. In the evening, delight in a traditional Bavarian band performance.

Passau is a picturesque city situated at the confluence of the Danube, Inn, and Ilz rivers. Take a morning walking tour through streets lined with beautiful Baroque buildings dating back to the 17th century. Visit the Gothic Town Hall, the impressive Bishop’s Residence, and the magnificent St. Stephen’s Cathedral, known for its stunning Baroque architecture and housing the largest church organ in Europe. Return to the Star-Ship for lunch and spend the afternoon peacefully cruising along the Danube.

In the heart of Austria’s wine-growing region, you’ll find Melk, home to a 900-year-old Benedictine abbey. Embark on an included tour of this UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, marvelling at the opulent Italian Baroque architecture and ornate gold leaf walls. Explore the ancient monastic library, renowned for its collection of medieval manuscripts. Later, sail through the picturesque UNESCO-listed Wachau Valley and arrive in Dürnstein, one of the most enchanting villages in the region. Choose to hike to Dürnstein Castle, where Richard the Lionheart was once imprisoned after his return from the Crusades.

Prepare to be captivated by Austria’s breathtaking capital, Vienna, renowned for its cultural legacy. Embark on a guided tour of the city, including the famous Ringstrasse and Vienna’s city centre. Marvel at the Renaissance-style arches adorning the façades of the Opera House, the Baroque Burgtheater, and the Flemish Gothic Parliament. After the tour, enjoy free time to explore Vienna at your leisure. Delight in the city’s art, visit its renowned museums, or savour the local cuisine.

Set at the crossroads of ancient trade routes, Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, offers a captivating blend of history and charm. Take a sightseeing tour and explore the enchanting Old City. Pass by the botanical gardens of the Episcopal Summer Palace, the Renaissance courtyard of the Old Town Hall, and the Slovak National Theatre adorned with busts of famous composers. After the tour, enjoy free time to discover the city independently. In the afternoon, experience the warm hospitality of a local family as they welcome you into their home for conversation, traditional sweet treats, and coffee.

Budapest, the liveliest and most cosmopolitan city in Eastern Europe, awaits you. Divided by the iconic Danube River, the city is a blend of Buda and Pest, which can be reached via the famous Chain Bridge. Embark on a guided tour and discover the city’s highlights with a local guide. Alternatively, hike to Buda Hill and traverse winding cobblestone streets beneath the majestic Buda Castle. In the evening, enjoy a Hungarian folklore show before indulging in a farewell dinner.

Say farewell to your fellow guests and disembark the Star-Ship. Journey by coach to Prague, one of Europe’s most beautiful cities. Situated on the banks of the River Vltava, Prague is known for its pristine collections of architecture from various eras. Upon arrival, check-in to your hotel and enjoy the evening at your leisure.

Hotel: Prague for 3 nights

Enjoy a guided walking tour of Prague, covering landmarks such as the Old Town. Take a break and enjoy coffee and cake at the 16th Century Lewkowicz Palace.

Prague is yours to explore independently today, perhaps enjoying some delicious Czech treats or immersing yourself in the culture that surrounds you. Your tour director will be available to help plan your day’s exploring and to answer any questions that you may have.

After breakfast, it is time to bid farewell to your fellow guests and leave Prague’s idyllic centre for your transfer to the airport, taking memories of ancient wonders and idyllic panoramic views of UNESCO World Heritage-listed areas with you. Upon arrival in Perth (Day 23), your driver will be waiting to transfer you home.