Charming Castles & Vineyards of the Rhine & Moselle with Switzerland

Welcome to Switzerland and the city of Zurich, the largest in the country and one of the most liveable in the world. Here, residents cycle along wide streets, relax in leafy parks and dine under the stars in open-air restaurants. It’s known as a global financial centre, but there’s also one of Europe’s most eclectic cultural scenes, world-class contemporary art and a fascinating history. 

Check in to your hotel in Zurich for an overnight stay.

Set off on foot this morning for a walking tour with a local guide. Zurich is one of the world’s great walking cities, with a flat centre, many pedestrian-only streets and historic bridges. Wander along the Bahnhofstrasse, the city’s main street that’s lined with glamorous boutiques and international flagship stores. Straddling both sides of the Limmat River, Zurich’s Old Town is a pleasant jumble of tiny laneways, cobbled squares and medieval buildings. Don’t miss St Peter’s Church, where the original 9th century foundations are still visible beneath the chancel and the iconic twin towers of the Grossmünster church. 

Then, travel through the impossibly pretty town of Lucerne. Perched on the edge of the spectacular Lake Lucerne, you’ll find exquisite medieval architecture, a 685-year-old wooden footbridge (the oldest in Europe), and glimpses of the majestic Alps in the distance.  

Continue your journey this afternoon through majestic Swiss landscapes to the capital, Bern. 

Lucerne, a compact city in Switzerland known for its preserved medieval architecture, sits amid snowcapped mountains on Lake Lucerne. Its colorful Altstadt (Old Town) is bordered on the north by 870m Museggmauer (Musegg Wall), a 14-century rampart. The covered Kapellbrücke (Chapel Bridge), built in 1333, links the Aldstadt to the Reuss River's right bank.

It’s back on the road this morning for your first taste of the Swiss Alps in the village of Gstaad. A favourite with the international jet set, Gstaad is renowned as a ski resort in winter and an outdoor adventure playground in summer. The first thing you’ll see is the magnificent Gstaad Palace hotel, which looks like a fairytale castle perched above the tiny village. Stroll through the chic shopping district and admire the jaw-dropping views. 

Wind your way back down to the lakeside town of Montreux. It sits on the edge of Lake Geneva, one of the largest lakes in Western Europe that is shared between Switzerland and France. Montreux is known as the Swiss Riviera for its stunning scenery, charming waterfront, perfect climate and chic lifestyle. 

Check in to your hotel for a two night stay.

Why not take the opportunity to wake early and walk along a section of the path that runs around the shore of Lake Geneva. There are beautiful views over the calm water, with boats bobbing at anchor and mountains in the distance. You can join the path right out the front of the hotel.

You’ll be thankful you made time for some exercise, because today you’re going to dive into the gooey cheese culture of Montreux. 

Enrich
Today’s Scenic Enrich:

All aboard the cheese train: Delight in a panoramic train journey to Château-d’Oex. Upon arrival you’ll view traditional cheese-making at the Restaurant Le Chalet. The restaurant makes its own cheese, and in a wonderful demonstration, the cheesemaker will transform milk into hard cheese right in front of your eyes. 

Transfer today to Basel where you will be greeted by your friendly crew and welcomed on board your Scenic Space-Ship.

Basel is a city in northwestern Switzerland on the Swiss, French and German borders. It is located on the bend of the River Rhine and benefits from a Mediterranean climate. It is the third most populated city in Switzerland and has been the commercial hub for Swiss arts and culture since the Renaissance. In 1967 the people of Basel voted to acquire two paintings by Picasso, who was so moved by the Basel people that he donated 3 paintings and a study to the city's Kunstmuseum (Museum of Fine Arts). Visit the Augusta Raurica, one of the largest Roman archaeology parks in Switzerland, and enjoy a river crossings over the River Rhine by non-motorised ferries. During the summer months, time is spent outdoors, either swimming in the River Rhine, dining al fresco, enjoying open air concerts, cinema, street parties and festivals. Basel is home to over 20 restaurants that have won GaultMillau or Michelin awards, and boasts Switzerland's largest collection of theatre shows, including modern contemporary dance, touring and puppetry theatre.

We will arrive in Breisach this morning. Located between the Rhine River and the Black Forest, Breisach is a food and wine destination that shares its border with the Alsace region. It was almost destroyed during World War II but was meticulously rebuilt with its traditional cobbled streets and pastel houses. 

Freechoice:
Choose from a wonderful selection of Scenic Freechoice experiences:

Excursion to Colmar: Take an excursion over the French border to the colourful town of Colmar, a unique Alsatian town that is often referred to as ‘Little Venice' for its network of canals and bridges, originally used by fishermen and market gardeners. These quaint waterways are lined with half-timbered houses in an array of pastel colours, and its town centre is charming with cobblestoned streets and traditional architecture.

Wine tasting at Kaiserstuhl: Volcanic rocks make up a large part of the central and western Kaiserstuhl region thanks to numerous volcanic eruptions more than 16 million years ago. Because of its loose covered volcanic soils, the Kaiserstuhl is known as a very good wine-producing region. During your visit, sample some of these delicious drops.

Excursion to Freiburg: Located on the edge of the Black Forest, Freiburg is a picturesque city. Enjoy a guided walking tour through the lively medieval town centre to see the Freiburg Minster, a 13th century cathedral that was one of few in Germany to survive WWII bombings.

Chateau du Haut-Koenigsbourg: Sitting on a hilltop in the Alsace region of France, this ‘royal castle' was constructed in the 12th century but was burnt down during the Thirty Years War in the 1600s. Left for 200 years in ruins, the castle was restored in the early 20th century and was classified as an historical monument. Visiting the castle will feel like stepping back to the Middle Ages.

Today your Space-Ship will dock in Ratstatt, your base for today’s explorations. Set on the northern edge of the Black Forest region, it has a well-preserved Baroque centre and a vibrant modern arts and theatre scene. After a morning luxuriating on board your Scenic Space-Ship, set off on an afternoon of sightseeing.

Freechoice:
Decide how you want to spend your day with these Scenic Freechoice options.

Excursion to Baden Baden: This luxurious town was a favoured summer escape during the Belle Epoque and is World Heritage-listed as part of the Great Spa Towns of Europe. It oozes relaxation, features tranquil green spaces, picturesque public gardens and grand historical architecture. Enjoy a walking tour, taking in the opulence of the town, including its famous casino and the remains of Roman baths.

Visit Schloss Favorite: This grand palace was originally built as a hunting lodge and summer palace for Margravine Sibylla Augusta, who ruled Baden-Baden in the early 18th century after her husband Louis William, Margrave of Baden-Baden, died of a war injury. The palace was only used for several weeks each year, and houses a large collection of fine porcelain. It is the oldest of the German ‘porcelain palaces' and the last still intact.

Walking tour of Strasbourg: Enjoy a guided walking tour of the charming town of Strasbourg, seeing many of the most important sights of the city including the Cathedral, Petit France, the Grand Ile, and its many half-timbered houses and beautiful canals. Strasbourg is located on the border of France and Germany and ownership of the town has changed hands many times between the two countries. Due to this, Strasbourg is a unique mixture of both French and German architecture and culture. Drive to Strasbourg passing by many notable sites including the European Parliament. Please note: this is an active walk.

Your Scenic Space-Ship will dock in the charming town of Rüdesheim this morning. Surrounded by steep vineyards that have been cultivating wine for a staggering two millennia, Rüdesheim is filled with half-timbered houses lining cobbled streets, quaint shops selling trinkets such as traditional Christmas ornaments and cuckoo clocks, as well as a smattering of wine taverns and open-air beer gardens.

Freechoice:
Explore Rüdesheim your way with your choice from today's Scenic Freechoice options.

Siegfried's Musikkabinett Museum: From the pier, take a mini train through the quaint winding streets of Rüdesheim to Siegfried's Musikkabinett Museum where a local guide will introduce you to the weird and wonderful mechanical musical instruments. Afterwards, enjoy free time to wander around town or take the cable car up to the Niederwald Monument, where you'll have breathtaking views over the river. This 17th century statue was built to commemorate the unification of Germany.
Hike & Cable Car: Join a local guide for a hike through the rolling vineyards of Rüdesheim, a wine region famous for its Riesling, and enjoy spectacular views of the countryside and Rhine below. After your hike, board the cable car to return to town.

You’ll arrive in Cochem this morning. A historic gem resting on the banks of the Moselle River, Cochem appears straight out of a medieval romance. The traditional town is nestled on the riverbanks, with pastel-coloured buildings, half-timbered houses, cobbled laneways and an enchanting medieval hilltop castle surrounded by sloped vineyards. 

Freechoice:
Experience Cochem on foot or by bike with your choice from today’s Scenic Freechoice experiences:

Walking tour of Cochem: Take a short transfer to Reichsburg Castle, which dates to the Middle Ages. Enjoy a guided tour of the castle, which features a knight’s hall, trophy room and cellars, before wandering down to the Old Town, seeing many historic buildings along the way.

Cycling tour of Cochem: Join a local guide and hop on one e-bike to explore the town of Cochem and the surrounding region. See the impressive Reichsburg Castle towering above the city and ride through winding streets past half-timbered houses.

Return to your luxurious Scenic Space-Ship this afternoon and relax with a regional wine or beer in the Panorama Lounge & Bar as you cruise along the Moselle. If you feel like really winding down, head to the Wellness Centre for a relaxing massage^. 

Your Scenic Space-Ship will dock in Bernkastel today. A wonderfully preserved riverside town, Bernkastel is home to an atmospheric market square with buildings that date to the 13th century. You’ll find one of the world’s most famous Riesling vineyards, Bernkasteler Doctor, and the ruins of Landshut Castle, where archaeological remains from the 4th and 5th centuries were discovered in 2012. 

Freechoice:
Elevate your Bernkastel visit with your choice of the following Scenic Freechoice experiences:

Walking Tour of Bernkastel: Your expert local guide will explain the local architecture and culture of Bernkastel, and you’ll also have some time to discover the town on your own. Highlights include perfectly preserved half-timbered houses and the Renaissance-style Rathaus (Town Hall).

Wine tasting along the Moselle: The fertile banks of the Moselle River are home to a plethora of vineyards. Learn about the varieties grown here on a tour where you’ll sample some of the delicious drops, including Riesling, for which the region is best known.

Perhaps enjoy a leisurely morning starting with coffee in your suite, delivered by your personal butler, as you start your day in Koblenz, a melange of French and German cultures and one of Germany’s oldest cities. Located where the Rhine and Moselle meet, Koblenz has a history spanning 2,000 years. Start your day with a coffee delivered to your suite by your butler, followed by breakfast in Crystal Dining. 

Freechoice:
Enhance your time in Koblenz with your choice from the following Scenic Freechoice activities:

Koblenz walking tour: Join your guide through one of the oldest cities in Germany. Explore the Florinsmarkt, the former political and economic centre of the city. On your way through the winding streets of the old town, you’ll see impressive townhouses, charming squares and historic churches.

Burg Eltz guided tour: Considered one of the most magical castles in Germany, Burg Eltz is perched on a rocky outcrop deep in a valley of the Eltz Forest. Unscathed by wars that have crumbled so many other castles in Germany, Burg Eltz is the epitome of a fairytale castle with eight towers and turrets. It has been under the ownership of the same family for more than 850 years and contains many original furnishings and interiors to this day, including 15th century murals. Inside the castle walls, you can visit the treasury and armoury, which exhibits nine centuries of artefacts.

Koblenz biking tour: Ride along the Moselle and Rhine River on your guided cycling tour using e-bikes*. Let your bike do most of the hard work while you glide past many city attractions and cross over the Rhine River twice, while learning the historic background of Koblenz from your expert local guide.

After a delicious breakfast, bid farewell to your newfound friends. You’ll be transferred to Frankfurt airport where you’ll depart for home with stories for life.

Please book your flight to depart out of Frankfurt after 11:30 AM.

 This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions. 

Frankfurt, birthplace of the iconic writer Johann Wolfgang von Goethe, boasts a wealth of cultural attractions, vibrant modernity and rich history. The cityscape is dominated by sleek skyscrapers, a showcase of the city's status as a dynamic metropolis and the financial capital of Europe. Home to world-class museums, diverse cuisine and lively markets, Frankfurt offers a varied array of experiences that complement its cosmopolitan character and enduring legacy.  

-

Our spacious main restaurant serving breakfast, lunch and dinner. Award-winning Chefs prepare buffet, while regional wines are hand-picked by our sommelier.

• Á la carte menus
• Four-course dinner
• Open seating with tables from 2 to 8
• Wide range of cuisine from local specialties to a Seafood Gala evening
• Buffet and á la carte menus available daily
• In-room dining served by a butler

-

Exclusive and intimate, Portobellos boasts the best vantage point at the front of the ship showcasing sumptuous regional specialities from the freshest local produce.

• Authentic Italian, French or Portuguese dining
• A maximum of 32 guests an evening
• All guests will dine here at least once during their cruise
• Five-course menu featuring regional specialties paired with local wines from the region’s best wineries
• Floor-to-ceiling windows to enjoy the view as you dine

-

This intimate affair is the ultimate treat for your palate.

Royal and Junior suite guests as well as Diamond Deck guests are invited, by our Executive Chef, to join Table La Rive for an evening of sumptuous dégustation.

• Exclusive for Royal and Junior suite guests on cruises of 7 nights or less, and for all Diamond deck guests on cruises of 10 nights or longer
• Six-course dégustation menu with sommelier paired wines
• Intimate dining for only 10 guests per evening

-

Enjoy a refreshing afternoon aperitif or pick-me-up light bite on the Riverview Terrace, an open-air lounge and bar area located on the Sun Deck. Alfresco living doesn’t get better, with all-inclusive refreshments to complement the rapturous views.

-

The River Café provides you with a wonderful range of complimentary delicious light meals, snacks and refreshments that you can take anywhere at any time.

• Open from early in the morning until late afternoon
• Casual and flexible dining options to suit your schedule
• Offers full service and mouth-watering buffet style food
• A great meeting spot, open for all day grazing and socializing
• Gelato bar, light snacks, healthy options, tasty treats

-

Add to the five-star feel of your luxury river cruise and upgrade to a higher category cabin- depending on the category, you will enjoy the added benefit of some fantastic in suite dining options. If you’re staying on the Sapphire Deck or above, your butler can arrange cocktail drinks and serve early morning tea or coffee in your cabin. If you’re staying on the Diamond Deck, you will also be treated to the added option of breakfast served in suite. Junior and Royal Suite guests can enjoy all of this, plus fresh seasonal fruit skewers, petit fours delivered each afternoon and canapés before dinner. If you are a Royal Suite guest, enjoy in suite dining whenever it suits you.

-

Take a ride on a Scenic E-Bike and experience the wonders of Portugal like never before. These power-assisted bicycles are perfect for seeing the sights at a pace that suits you.

-

Immerse in the wonders of Europe with Scenic Tailormade, a GPS-powered discovery system, which can be downloaded from The App Store or Google Play, lets you see more of the continent both on board and on shore.

-

Enjoy the freedom of customising your holiday your way with Scenic Freechoice. Choose from a wide range of truly all-inclusive experiences classified into ‘Active’, ‘Moderate’, and ‘Relaxed’ grades, and find the ones to match your pace each day.

-

Enjoy wondrous moments exclusively created for you, ranging from a private concert in a grand 18th century palace in Germany or indulging in a sumptuous dinner in a local home in the Netherlands. Enjoy these exquisite handcrafted experiences that are not available to the regular traveller.

-

The Panorama Lounge is the main bar area on board the Scenic Ruby. Here, you can explore our extensive bar menu, which is complete with premium wines, beers and spirits, whilst enjoying a programme of entertainment from local musicians, dancers and performers.

-

Ideal for those sunlit days on the river, the Sun Deck is a designated open-air space equipped with everything you might need to relax and enjoy the great outdoors on your river cruise – think deck chairs, games area and a bar where you can make the most of our all-inclusive service.

-

Whatever you need on your cruise through Europe, our welcoming reception team is here to ensure your trip goes down without a hitch. The reception area is also the meeting point for the day’s shore excursions; you’ll find it in the middle of the Scenic Ruby.

-

The Wheelhouse is where our expert crew pilot your Space-Ship, negotiating the twists and turns of the Danube with the utmost precision and care. Stop by to chat with the team and take a peek behind the scenes.

-

Feel pampered throughout your river cruise at the Wellness Area. From facials to massages, our beauty therapist provides a selection of indulgent treatments to help you truly relax.

-

Relax and unwind with a unique wellness session at our Salt Therapy Lounge. New to the Scenic Ruby, this purpose-built therapy space uses the natural healing power of salt to help you relax, promoting improved wellness and sleep.

-

Featuring state-of-the-art fitness equipment, including both cardio and weight-training machines, the Fitness Centre is ideal for those who want to stay active on their travels. Drop by and get ready for the day.

-

Standard Suites are located on the Jewel Deck with large picture windows to ensure a great view. They have a spacious design and clever layout alongside all the usual luxurious amenities and furnishings.

-

These suites on the Diamond Deck are the ultimate in luxury with more space, impeccable service, thoughtful touches, an outdoor balcony, lounge area and an oversized bathroom.

-

At 325ft², this suite is the largest on the ship. At the rear of the Diamond Deck, enjoy panoramic views of the breathtaking passing scenery through floor to ceiling windows across two walls of the cabin.

-

Located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks they feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive Sun Lounge system and are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe’s rivers.

-

These Suites on the Diamond Deck are the ultimate in luxury with more space (315ft²), impeccable service, thoughtful touches, an outdoor balcony, lounge area and an oversized bathroom.

-

These spacious Suites (250ft²), located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks, have a private full-length balcony and elegant en-suite bathrooms featuring a large vanity basin, bathtub with shower above.