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The Rhine, Swiss Alps & Amsterdam

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Uniquely Tauck

EXPERIENCE WITH TAUCK

TAUCK EXCLUSIVE – Reception at the Unterlinden Museum in Colmar

TAUCK EXCLUSIVE – Dinner and entertainment at Schloss Ehreshoven, a German castle dating back to the 15th century

TAUCK VALUE INCLUDES

Tauck's private shore excursions and distinctive inclusions valued at $4,377

Two nights at the Hotel Bellevue Bern, with choice of a cogwheel train excursion to the Jungfraujoch, or a chocolate-themed walking tour of Bern

Choice of bicycle excursion in Baden-Baden

A guided visit to Amsterdam's Rijksmuseum, plus a canal boat cruise

SEE WHAT YOUR JOURNEY INCLUDES

Guests should be able to easily walk one to two miles, which may include climbing one or two flights of stairs and walking over uneven pavement, groomed hiking trails or cobblestones. Standing up to one hour or more may be required.

Often robust – may include long days, active sightseeing, early starts, evening activities, significant travel times.

Exclusively inclusive river cruising

Follow the romantic Rhine River on its winding journey through Central Europe, taking in the sights, history and culture of Germany, Switzerland, The Netherlands and France, as your riverboat glides along the river.

Old world europe – rhine river cruises, tauck exclusive – evening at schloss ehreshoven, enjoy an elegant dinner and tour at schloss ehreshoven.

Built in the 14th century and later expanded in the grand style of a Baroque manor house, Schloss Ehreshoven is surrounded by gracious 18th-century French gardens and a castle park. For nearly a century the castle has been the heart of a charitable foundation whose main mission includes providing a home for unmarried aristocratic ladies without means in their golden years. Frequently used as a location for movies and TV shows, the Schloss provides an elegant setting for Tauck's exclusive cocktail reception and dinner, hosted by a member of the family.

Bellevue Palace Bern

More than a century of history in the shadow of the alps.

The only grand hotel in the heart of Switzerland's capital, Bellevue Palace Bern a national institution – the official guest house of the Swiss government for over 150 years, in fact. Whether you arrive for a romantic weekend, an eventful holiday or an official visit, the hotel's stylish and discreetly luxurious rooms and suites leave nothing to be desired. All offer classically elegant furnishings combined with modern-day comforts, harmonious colors and stunning views. Thanks to our hospitality, you are sure to feel at home.

The officers and crew were totally outstanding professionals. We were treated like royalty. The Tour Directors were exceptionally knowledgeable, personable and great!

Tauck Traveler Review

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Welcome Aboard

• ms Treasures

Ship Specifications

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Diamond Deck

(Note: All Category 7 cabins are three-guest capacity suites with a pull-out couch)

Emerald Deck

Overnight Accommodations

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Arrive Early

Bern, Switzerland

Nights 3-9 On Board

Tauck Riverboat

Your Journey

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Northbound: Zurich → Amsterdam

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About Booking This Tour

Travel Documents

If you are a U.S. citizen traveling internationally , you will need a passport valid for six months beyond the completion of your Tauck journey for entry into the Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland and France. You are not required to obtain a visa to enter any country visited for the short duration of this tour.

If you are a citizen of another country traveling internationally , you should contact a consulate or embassy of the Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland, and France to determine what travel documentation is required.

Please Note: Longer stays abroad for any purpose may require additional travel documentation.

We recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents are misplaced, lost or stolen.

To facilitate Travel Requirements, destinations are increasingly utilizing online forms that require digital proof that you've successfully completed your submission (via an email, QR code, etc.) To ensure smooth travels and peace of mind, we strongly recommend all guests carry a personal smart phone and sign up for international data plans before traveling overseas.

Cruise Regulations – International maritime security guidelines require that your passport information be provided to us prior to your embarkation. You need to provide this information to us as soon as you book your cruise or boarding may be denied. Once you board the riverboat, your passport will be held by the purser temporarily to make copies.

TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN AS A GUARDIAN: If you are traveling as the guardian of a child/children, we strongly suggest that you carry a letter from both parents of the child authorizing emergency treatment in the event of illness or accident. For travel abroad, many foreign countries have specific entry requirements for children under 21 who are traveling internationally without BOTH parents. (These requirements are in response to the increased incidence of children being abducted and taken abroad.) PLEASE NOTE THAT TAUCK IS NOT RESPONSIBLE for the disruption of travel caused by improper documentation for children traveling without both parents.

How to Book a Tour

See your travel advisor, or call Tauck at 800-468-2825 to make a reservation.

At the time of booking, please have the following information ready for all members of your party:

• Tour Name and Departure Date
• Traveler's Name: First and last names as they appear on your passport or driver's license
• Traveler's Address(es)
• Email Address*
• Traveler's Phone Number(s)*
• Emergency Contact Information: Please provide the name and phone number  of a relative or friend (not travelling with you) whom we could contact during the tour in the unlikely event of an emergency
• Interest in purchasing a travel protection plan (US and Canada)
• Interest in extending your trip by staying in a Tauck recommended hotel before your trip begins or after it ends
• Interest in our specially negotiated airfares

* Required Fields

Deposits & Final Payment

The deposit and the fees for the optional Protection Plan or Cancel Fee Waiver [CFW] coverage are due at time of booking.

The deposit amount is $900 per person

Final Payments:

Final Payment is due to Tauck  60  days before departure for lands trips, and  120  days before departure for cruises and rail journeys. If your deposit was made by credit card, final payment will be automatic unless you opted out at time of booking. Bookings without full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice. Failure to make payment will be a considered a cancellation by the guest and all applicable cancellation fees will apply.

Cruise Protection Plan

Effective for plans purchased as of July 1, 2021:

Tauck's Cruise and Event Protection

Tauck's Cruise & Event Protection provides you with cancellation protection before your journey begins as well as insurance benefits while you are traveling. It must be purchased within 10 days of your initial deposit. Guest Protection includes the following:

Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck:

Under Tauck's Cancellation Fee Waiver you can cancel your tour for ANY REASON and Tauck will  reduce the regular cancellation fees outlined herein, provided we are notified of cancellation before your cruise departs. Certain terms and restrictions apply (see below*).

*Extreme Circumstances:  In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey.  Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company.

• Trip Cancellation –  Should you cancel for covered reasons, the plan reimburses cancellation fees imposed, up to your total trip cost. 
• Trip Interruption –  If you have to interrupt your tour for covered reasons, the plan provides reimbursement to catch up to your tour or return home.
• Travel Delay –  Provides reimbursement for missed, prepaid travel arrangements if you are delayed by a common carrier, natural disaster, unannounced strike, or other reasons as cited in the plan.
• Medical Expense –  Reimburses covered medical expenses incurred in the event you become injured or sick during your trip. 
• Baggage / Personal Effects Protection –  Provides reimbursement in the event your luggage or personal effects are, lost, stolen, damaged or delayed during your trip.

Worldwide Emergency Assistance Services –  Provided by Carefree Travel Assistance; 24-hour emergency telephone assistance hotline for medical and travel related problems.

The cost of Tauck's Cruise and Event Protection is:   $799   per person

This plan provides cancellation coverage for your trip and other insurance coverages that apply only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

This optional Cruise and Event Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included in initial payment. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your reservation. Cruise and Event Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.

To obtain your state-specific Certificate of Insurance that contains the complete terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the certificate, visit  affinitytravelcert.com/docs/TACCREINTL

If You Have To Cancel

If you cancel within 10 days of initial deposit

Within the first 10 days after you place your initial deposit, you may cancel your reservation for any reason with no cancellation fees.

If you cancel more than 10 days after initial deposit

Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. These fees vary from tour to tour. Therefore, the following fees apply for this tour.

Cancellation Fees with Tauck's Cruise Protection Plan:

120 days or more before departure: Loss of cost of Tauck's Cruise and Event Protection fee per person 119 – 60 days before departure: Loss of 25% of the cost of the cruise, not including air (if applicable), plus loss of Cruise and Event Protection fee, per person 59 – 1 days before departure: Loss of 50% of the cost of the cruise, not including air (if applicable), plus loss of Cruise and Event Protection fee, per person Cancellation Fees without Tauck's Cruise Protection Plan: 120 days or more before departure: $900 per person 119 – 60 days before departure: Loss of 50% of the cost of cruise, not including air (if applicable), per person 59 - 1 days before departure: Loss of 100% of the cost of cruise, not including air (if applicable), per person Time of cancellation will be when notice is received in our Wilton Woods, CT office.

Tour Interruption Fees

If you have to interrupt your tour en route, you may be entitled to a refund for the unused land portion if it exceeds 24 hours; certain restrictions apply. Such refunds are based upon the number of overnights missed less a fee of $40 per person per day for unused transportation and other fixed expenses.

Partial Room Cancellation

A person who cancels or leaves a tour while a roommate remains constitutes a cancellation of one type of accommodation and rebooking of another type of accommodation. The price charged to the remaining person is the new, higher price for the new accommodation.

In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control, Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation and transfer terms outlined herein. Note: All Guests, regardless of residency, who book a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing the Cancellation Waiver provided by Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck's Cruise & Event Protection, which includes both the Cancellation Fee Waiver and the Travel Insurance Benefits and Assistance Services described above, is not available to residents of Puerto Rico.

Travel Terms and Conditions

Click here  to find Tauck's Travel Terms & Conditions.

Travel Requirements For This Tour

Air Information and Luggage Restrictions

AIRFARE: Airfare to and from this destination is not included in the journey cost. If purchasing your air elsewhere, it is very important to provide us with your confirmed arriving and departing flight information no later than 3 weeks before your arrival date. Flight information can be submitted to Tauck (or verified, if you've already provided it) in the My Account section of Tauck.com.

TAUCK AIRPORT TRANSFERS are included at the start and end of the journey between the airport and the Tauck hotel. Airport transfers are available for any pre tour or post tour hotel stays immediately consecutive to the tour, providing flight information is received in the Tauck office no later than three weeks in advance. Details on locating your transfer upon arrival to the tour start city will be included in your final documents.

AIRLINES and CHECKED LUGGAGE: Due to space limitations during your Tauck journey, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one average-size suitcase per person. Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and are free to revise luggage policies without notice. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies. PLEASE NOTE that if you are booked on a tour that includes on-tour flights, the checked luggage weight restrictions for these flights may be lower than the weight restrictions for your international flights.

Checked Luggage – General

Due to space restrictions, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one suitcase per person weighing no more than 50 pounds (23 kg) and with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 62 inches (158 cm).

Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and luggage exceeding airline standards for size or weight may result in expensive overage fees or other consequences.

Airlines are free to revise luggage policies without notice, and certain airlines have different baggage allowances for different classes of service. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies.

Tauck luggage tags will be provided by your Tauck Director on Day 1 of your itinerary. Please do not attach a Tauck luggage tag to any carry-on items, as the Tauck tags designate luggage that is to be handled and transferred by ground operators and hotel staff during your journey.

Although oversize bags and wheeled, carry-on luggage are popular for airline travel, they are often not convenient or appropriate for motor coach travel or for many on-tour flights. Most modern sightseeing motor coaches offer limited space for numerous or larger items. Space under seats or in the overhead rack is typically small, and designed to accommodate items like coats, hats, purses, and small camera bags, etc.

For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and that you bring only those items you need handy during the day such as make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or on the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may be inaccessible during daytime travel.

Health, Safety and Mobility

HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS

Your riverboat is registered in Basel, Switzerland. Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour. Please refer to the Tauck Travel Protection Product section above for details on the coverage we can offer you.

If you have a medical condition that might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify us as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly.

VACCINATIONS

If you are a resident of the U.S. , no vaccinations are currently required for travel to the Netherlands, Germany, France or Switzerland. For complete vaccination and inoculation information, contact your physician, the public health service in your area, or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia, U.S.A. The Travelers' Health Section of the CDC operates a 24-hour "Travelers' Health Hotline" at 800-232-4636 (toll-free in the U.S.). You may also log on to the CDC website by clicking here .

If you are a resident of another country , please contact an embassy or consulate of the Netherlands, Germany, France and  Switzerland to determine what vaccination(s) may be required for you to visit.

While this tour is very relaxing and the pace leisurely, to enjoy all the tour has to offer, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances, often over unpaved and uneven surfaces. Some of the most memorable sightseeing can only be accomplished on foot. There is a moderate to significant amount of walking during our excursions, often along cobblestone streets, and at many sites there are multiple stairs or steps; for the most part, however, the amount of walking you do is at your discretion.

Your riverboat has four decks: Sun, Diamond, Ruby and Emerald. The elevator runs between the Diamond Deck and Emerald Deck; there is not elevator access to the Sun Deck. There is no chair lift between any of the decks. Check your electronic personal documents for information pertaining to your specific riverboat.

Because you will be cruising on a river and not on the open sea, you are never far from land and, therefore, there is no doctor onboard the riverboat. In case of emergency, we can easily dock the boat and call for an ambulance or medical assistance.

PLEASE NOTE:  We regret that this Tauck itinerary cannot accommodate wheelchairs or motorized scooters. Likewise, we regret that we're unable to provide individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other personal needs.  The responsibility of the Tauck Director who accompanies your trip is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest.

Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate service animals on any river cruise for medical and legal reasons.

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUESTS

The restaurants, hotels, caterers and numerous other partners we work with all do their best to accommodate special dietary requests from Tauck guests. However, given the diverse nature of those food providers (from small wineries to grand hotels to world-famous restaurants in more than 70 countries worldwide), some of our partners are better able than others to accommodate such requests. We therefore cannot guarantee that all dietary requests can be accommodated at every meal. Also, please note that where dietary requests can be accommodated, choices will frequently be limited.

On board the riverboat, smoking is permitted in a limited area of the Sun deck. Smoking (including e-Cigarettes) is not permitted in any cabin, the restaurant, the lounge or any other interior space.

Reading List

We have compiled a reading list of recommended books to give you more information about the destinations you will be traveling to on your upcoming journey!

You can view the reading list  here.

To read about current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website, noaa.gov , by clicking here.

What To Pack

Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – we've partnered with Necessary Gear who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip. Click here to visit their site .

Your journey is designed with leisure in mind. Dress for comfort and convenience with a wardrobe that is flexible and allows for layering. Casual, cotton clothing is recommended. A light jacket or sweater for the sun deck is also recommended.  Pack comfortable yet sturdy walking shoes that have already been broken-in, as many of the sites visited were built centuries ago and have uneven surfaces, some steep inclines and many steps.

During evenings aboard the riverboat, dress is resort casual.  Items such as slacks and collared shirts are appropriate for men.  For women, slacks, a dress or a skirt and blouse are suitable.  For dinner and throughout the evening, guests should refrain from wearing shorts, t-shirts, flip-flops or sneakers. Your journey also includes one or two special occasion dinners, where a sport coat and tie for gentlemen and a dress/pantsuit for ladies are suggested.  (Your Tauck Director will advise you prior to those evenings.)

Bathrobes, slippers and hairdryers are provided in each cabin.

Valet laundry service is available on the riverboat for a fee. There is no valet dry cleaning available on the riverboat. Ironing facilities are available by request to the front desk. Category 7 suites feature their own irons and ironing boards.

We recommend that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medication in its original container to last through your entire journey, together with a copy of your doctor's prescription or a letter from your health-care provider on office stationery explaining that the medication has been prescribed for you, a list of the generic names of your medication, your travel documents and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag to avoid any inconvenience in the event that your flight or luggage is delayed. No medications are sold on board the riverboat.

Following is a list of recommended items to pack for your cruise:

• Flat, rubber-soled walking shoes for onboard the ship
• Comfortable yet sturdy walking shoes that have already been broken-in
• Casual daytime wear – shorts, slacks, long and short-sleeved shirts
• An optional jacket and tie for men
• Casually elegant evening wear for ladies
• Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat
• A light sweater or jacket for higher elevations or a breezy night
• Camera, lenses, batteries, memory cards and chargers
• Travel alarm clock/ cell phone with alarm functions (many hotels do not have clocks in the rooms)
• Rain poncho and collapsible umbrella
• Reusable zipper-lock bags or other waterproof bags
• Daypack for camera equipment
• Sundries and toiletries that may be difficult to find en route
• Copies of your travel documents that should be secured in the safe in your ship cabin while traveling

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Viking River Cruises: Paris to Swiss Alps in 12 Glorious Days

By: Author Melody Pittman

Posted on April 10, 2024

Set sail on a river of dreams with our 12-day magical Paris to Swiss Alps Viking River Cruises adventure. There’s something so special about unpacking once and waking up at a new destination daily. Picture this — a boutique floating hotel where friendly faces greet you, culinary delights await your taste buds, and endless views captivate your heart.

OR Join us as we recollect our 12-day fairy tale aboard a Viking River Cruise, beginning through the romantic streets of Paris and winding down to the snow-kissed peaks of the Swiss Alps. If the travel bug bites you and you daydream about cruises that take the scenic route, buckle up; this one’s for you.

If you have been looking for a great cruise itinerary with  the best of both worlds (cruising and land trip) , this Paris to the Swiss Alps cruise may be the one for you. Let me show you what Viking River Cruises is all about and what this trip entails. 

Thanks to Viking River Cruises for hosting my travel arrangements and stays. As always, opinions and reviews are 100% mine and unbiased. 

A Journey Begins in the City of Lights

Paris, the city that sparkles, was our first stop. Soon after our arrival, greeted by the warm Viking team, we found ourselves unwinding at the Marriott Paris Rive Gauche – our cozy haven for the next few days.

High-quality service? Check. Oh-so-comfy beds? Double-check.

Eager to kick things off, my husband, Eddie, and I hopped aboard the metro  straight to the iconic Eiffel Tower .  Pro Tip:  meander around the base and capture those Insta-worthy snapshots—Paris in all its iron-laced glory! 

Opting for a scenic Seine River cruise was a no-brainer. We floated by Parisian treasures like the Louvre, Musée d’Orsay, and Notre Dame, whose architectural splendor during the golden hour is a photographer’s dream.

Cherished Moments and a Brush with History

Viking knows how to charm its guests—a guided tour skipping the queues at Notre Dame (a day before the fire, mind you) was a poignant moment we’ll never forget. Post-tour, we rummaged through quirky souvenir shops and indulged in the ultimate French sandwich, the Croque Monsieur, perfectly complemented by a rich Parisian hot chocolate.

Starting the day right, Viking laid out an array of breakfast options in a room inside the Marriott hotel, including fresh bread, cheeses, delicious cold cuts, and more, with a fabulous selection of brews and juices to wash it all down.

A Palace Straight Out of a Fairytale

Are you craving more culture? Us too! That’s why we didn’t think twice about the extra excursion to Versailles, a  UNESCO World Heritage Site  that sees over six million visitors annually. It’s worth every penny of the $150, trust me. Viking whisked us away, and just like that, we bypassed the long lines to step into the opulence of the  Palace of Versailles . 

King-size luxury, intricate details, and glistening chandeliers – even among the throngs, the Hall of Mirrors caught our breath in its shimmering reflection.

Luxembourg – A Delightful Detour

With Paris bidding us adieu, we ventured onto Luxembourg City. Just a short scenic drive and voilà—local guides were at the ready, sharing insights and hidden gems. “Un café et pain” (a cafe, meaning coffee, and bread) soon became our go-to phrase, savoring coffee breaks with a side of the local pastry du jour.

We discovered that Luxembourg City wasn’t just easy on the eyes but kind to our wallets regarding shopping and dining. And get this: mine and Eddie’s first date, 31 years ago, was to Chi-Chis, where we saw one in the city.

A Tribute to Heroes in Luxembourg

Our expedition took an unexpected turn as we ventured beyond the urban charms of Luxembourg City and stumbled upon a place of profound honor – the  Luxembourg American Cemetery and Memorial . We were moved to silence and tears among the thousands of white crosses marking the bravery of WWII heroes like General George S. Patton. 

The place’s serenity contrasted with its tumultuous history, leaving us awestruck. By the way, this cemetery is maintained by America.

Trivia Fact:  5073 WWII service members from  Battle of the Bulge  are buried here. 

Climbing back aboard the magnificent Viking Kvasir, the welcome couldn’t have been warmer. Stateroom cards in hand, our belongings whisked to our cabins, we were soon clinking glasses in a toast with newfound friends, the prelude to a scrumptious dinner, which follows nightly.

Germany Welcomes Us with History and Wine

In the warmth of our fourth morning, Trier awaited us. Trier isn’t just any German city — it’s brimming with history as the oldest in the nation and was once the Holy Roman Empire’s capital.

Our eager bodies followed the cobblestone paths to Roman gates and baroque palaces, each step a footprint in time. The Porta Nigra (ancient city gate) was the best photo op.

Our cruise to Bernkastel-Kues was a sequence of picturesque vignettes in the Moselle Valley. Remember to glimpse the circa 1608 Renaissance Rathaus and the St. Michael Fountain — moments in stone that captured our imaginations. This was my favorite port on the entire cruise.

Snack Tip: Pick up an ultimate cheesy pretzel or pizza spargel from a street vendor.

Sipping Riesling in Bernkastel-Kues

Opting for a ‘Tour & Tasting,’ we savored the robust Rieslings of the region at  Dr. Pauly Bergweiler , memories of honey and apricot dancing on our tongues. There’s something special about enjoying a vintage right where it’s born. They also had a tasty ice wine. 

Other optional excursions unfurled the historic tapestries of Mainz and Strasbourg. Whether following in the steps of Martin Luther or sipping more wine while gazing at Alsatian vineyards, each opportunity was a gem waiting to be uncovered.

Once the wine had settled into pleasant recollections, we ventured to dine at Gasthaus Burkard . The evening highlight? A succulent Pork Jagerschnitzel paired with handmade Spaetzle. It doesn’t get much better than this.

Mesmerizing Moselle Valley

Our Viking Kvasir glided into Cochem, and we couldn’t resist the allure of exploring on our own during the five-hour window. Half-timbered houses seemed to whisper tales of yore as we wandered through the picturesque streets.

A ride on the Cochem Chairlift confirmed what our hearts already knew—this land is spellbinding. We grabbed amazing photos from this vantage point, and it cost less than ten euros each.

We skipped the guided steps up to 11th-century Reichsburg Castle, instead choosing to meander on our own, allowing us to absorb Cochem at our pace, a decision as rewarding as the panoramic views.

Scenic cruising unveiled the expansive Moselle Wine Country — a carpet of 22,000 miles of terraced hillside vineyards unfurling before us in the Upper Middle Rhine Valley.

Day six led to Koblenz, a trove of German wonders from shopping in the Four Towers to the historic fort of Festung Ehrenbreitstein. Here, find a corner under a covered table, fill up your coffee cup, and marvel at the mouthwatering pastries — a pleasure for the senses.

People-watching is supreme.

Jewels Along the Rhine

With the whispers of legendary sirens of the Lorelei rock still in our ears, Wiesbaden beckoned. A spontaneous discovery led us to margaritas and chips & salsa as delightful as the city itself, followed by a fountain McDonald’s Diet Coke, which had us rejoicing to no end.

Here, in the heart of savory experiences and cobblestoned mazes, we celebrated the luxury of choice and the thrill of discovery that a Viking River Cruise offers.

Wiesbaden Nights and Mainz Mornings

Day seven dawned in Mainz, a major trade center in the Middle Ages, with its stellar attractions—the Gutenberg Museum and Mainz Cathedral. Viking cruises have their magic, granting us a private peek into the celebrated museum on a day it is typically closed.

The museum vividly depicted Johannes Gutenberg’s groundbreaking press. Today, only 49 copies of the 180 original Gutenberg Bibles exist.

The quiet beauty of Marc Chagall’s blue-stained glass windows in St. Stephen’s Church (built in 990AD) was a sobering counterpoint to the jubilant sweet flavors we later savored from a nearby cafe. We are holding our own on keeping up with daily pastries and coffees.

Speyer – Where History and Taste Collide

Speyer, a storied name etched into the UNESCO annals, brought us face-to-face with the monumental  Speyer Cathedral . Its echoing halls and soaring organ note our symphony for the day, with eight emperors of old in their eternal sleep beneath, meaning they are buried here.

Peppered boutiques and cafes dotted the town we explored before we surrendered to the siren call of fresh pretzels and flavored teas at Maximilian Cafebar Restaurant. We then indulged in a hearty baked Italian dish from  Restaurant Porta Nuova . 

A Technik Museum visit rounded off our tale in Speyer, treating our eyes to a fabulous collection of vintage cars and planes of yesteryear.

A Feast of Sights and Flavors

Returning on board meant not just rest but a celebration, with Captain Patrik and Chef Jakub conjuring a barbecue that turned lunch into a feast under open skies, setting the tone for the mélange of experiences that Viking River Cruises represent.

Our meal on the Aquavit Terrace featured four types of sausages, mustards for dipping, potato salad, and several side dishes.

Strasbourg, France – An Easter Day of Discovery

On the ninth day of our cruise, we bid farewell to our floating home with a day in the storybook town of Strasbourg. This gem in France’s Alsace region greeted us with its fairy-tale charm. Imagine – half-timbered houses, winding cobblestone streets, and a relaxed morning tour that was just a teaser of the town’s beauty.

Post-lunch, adventure-seekers had the option of a wine-tasting tour, but we couldn’t resist the pull of Strasbourg a moment longer. We ventured back on our own, meandering through Petite France, where cafes and souvenir shops welcomed us even on Easter Sunday.

Notre Dame Cathedral Strasbourg beckoned, but a snaking line guided us towards a delightful plan B – indulging in sweet and savory crepes at La Cigogne Bar & Creperie. Who knew defeat could taste this delicious?

Viking didn’t forget it was Easter; we returned to find luxurious Lindt chocolates and colored eggs waiting to add sweetness to our staterooms and breakfast tables. Such thoughtful delights!

And if you haven’t been to Europe on or during Easter, be prepared for white asparagus to be on your plate daily and at every vegetable stand you see.

Hello Basel, Switzerland – An Escapade with Grandeur

Transitioning from cruise to land, we discovered the vibrant spirit of Basel, our first Swiss encounter. The architectural splendor of Market Square captivated us during our short walking tour, with the city’s bustling rhythm starkly contrasting our tranquil days on the river.

Despite the holiday (Good Monday), Viking masterfully orchestrated an excursion to Rheinfall – Europe’s largest waterfall. Here, we were given the precious gift of time – 90 minutes to immerse ourselves in the majesty of cascades that rivaled the grandiosity of New York’s Letchworth.

Last Stop: Zürich – A Tale of Two Worlds

On our 10th day, we dawned at the  Sheraton Zürich Hotel , a modern retreat that served as our base camp for exploring. Swiss efficiency shone through as we were whisked away on a tram to begin our  Zürich escapade .

The day unfolded with marvels like the Grossmünster Church, the Limmat River, and a surprising backdrop on our Lake Zürich cruise – the proud, snow-draped Swiss Alps. Fair warning, though; the boat tour, while a photographer’s dream, did have its lulls.

Eddie and I played explorers in the heart of the city, absorbing the stained-glass beauty of the Grossmünster and the Fraumünster’s green spire, adorned with Marc Chagall’s touch.

Amidst sightseeing, our palates embarked on their own voyage – from a hearty Thai buffet at the Blue Monkey to savoring traditional cheese fondue and dreamy raclette, each a Swiss culinary rite of passage.

With costs on the steeper side – dinners and simple refreshments averaging above 25 USD and 6 USD respectively – Switzerland reassured us that some experiences are truly priceless.

Revitalized, Recharged, and Reconditioned

Our voyage with Viking River Cruises culminated in a trove of memories, new friendships, and an expanded gallery on our phones. Yet, what stayed with me was the tranquility amidst the nonstop thrill—a testament to the truly immersive and well-crafted experience that Viking offers.

Having set sail on over 40 cruises, my unwavering affinity for Viking speaks volumes of their devotion to stitching together exceptional adventures for travelers like us.

Does the allure of a river cruise tempt you? Should any questions or musings set sail in your mind, I am all ears and more than happy to guide you through the tides.

Read more of our cruising posts at:

Viking’s Passau Cruise Port

Why Bratislava, Slovakia is a Favorite Danube River Cruise Port

Cruise Europe at Discounted Prices with Costa

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Wednesday 5th of February 2020

Thanks for your descriptive review and beautiful pictures. It looks like a wonderful trip! We are going on the same cruise in June 2020 with the Paris pre-extension. My husband and I have never gone on a cruise vacation.

I was especially interested to read detailed descriptions of the excursions. I have been considering which optional excursions to take so appreciate those descriptions. We have signed up for Bicycling the Moselle on electric bikes, Highlights of the Alps, and one that you chose - Palace of Versailles. Hopefully, the weather will be nice for our Alps excursion as I have only found negative reviews on the weather conditions (but none were taken in the summer months so fingers crossed).

We are very excited, and again, your review is lovely, and we feel more in the know about cruises for having read it.

Melody Pittman

Thursday 6th of February 2020

Thanks so much! We really loved the itinerary and especially the gorgeous wine region. I'm a big fan of Ebikes so I would have loved that Moselle excursion. Have fun. How could you not? ;)

Sunday 2nd of February 2020

You captured all the adventures I am looking forward to. My husband and I are doing this cruise in summer 2021 for our 40th wedding anniversary! I am so excited to experience this area. If you were to tell me one excursion not to miss what would it be? This will be our first Viking cruise and I want to make it very special.

You are in for a real treat, but first, let me wish you a very happy anniversary. My lifelong goal is to hit the 50 years mark. We still have 22 left to go, but its a start. ;) My favorite excursion was the wine tasting in Bernkastel. I love that Viking includes an excursion daily that is included in the price of the cruise. We skipped one of those to sleep in and ended up having a great day on our own. That is the great part of river cruising, you can still see everything on your own if you choose to not go with the group. I will admit that while I love Germany and France, Switzerland is not one of my favorite European countries. It was beautiful, but so expensive and just okay for me. Or it could be that I was just exhausted by the end of the trip, too. Don't stress over anything. Viking takes care of things from start to finish so you can relax and unwind while exploring the world. Thanks for reading.

Thursday 2nd of January 2020

Love your review and the info is great. I'm planning this trip for Dec. 2020 with my sister and maybe some other sister-pairs, specifically for the Christmas Markets. Any idea if Paris-to-Zurich is different/better then Zurich-to-Paris?

Hi Melody, One reason one might choose a particular trip is the pre- and post-extension packages. As we looked, we found the Paris extension was fully booked so I searched until I found one that wasn’t.

Enjoy your trip!

Friday 3rd of January 2020

I really don't know. I liked it in the order we went because we pounded the pavement really hard in Paris and Zurich was a nice break to regroup and unwind before heading home. Congrats! Have a wonderful time!

Sunday 1st of December 2019

This blog post was such a great find. My partner and I are scheduled to do this same cruise in August of 2020 so I was very interested in reading the details of your trip. We loved the VIking river cruise we took in 2016 and are so looking forward to this next adventure. We are hoping to add a 4-5 day train trip through the Swiss Alps post cruise. (If you've done a rail trip, I'd love to hear about it). :-)

You also mentioned a waterfalls reminding you of Letchworth Park in Western NY. We live in R0chester, NY, just 40 minutes away. Small world.

Thanks for your complete description of your trip.

Monday 2nd of December 2019

Awesome! You will love it! The train trip sounds amazing. Here is a link to my Switzerland part of this trip, but I have done Basel for a few days on a previous trip and the train trip up to Jungfrau. Here is that post: https://www.whereverimayroamblog.com/zurich-switzerland-the-viking-river-cruise-land-days/ Rochester, very cool! I was there in the fall of 2018 and on a road trip around upstate NY for 2 1/2 weeks. I loved it! Your beer scene is so good and that Museum of Play is the bomb. ;) I hope to get back there for a longer trip in the future. Safe travels and thanks so much for reading.

G. Ann Ward

Friday 13th of September 2019

Thanks for posting your photos and blog. This is a great preview to our taking this trip next Spring!

Saturday 14th of September 2019

Wonderful! I hope you have a fantastic time! ;)

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Paris to the Swiss Alps

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Your Stateroom Includes:

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Bottled water replenished daily

110/220 volt outlets

Queen-size Viking Explorer Bed (optional twin-bed configuration) with luxury linens & pillows

Private bathroom with shower, heated floor & anti-fog mirror

Premium Freyja® toiletries

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Telephone, safe, refrigerator

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Paris to the Swiss Alps

• Get inspired by the possibilities.
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• Tour the wine region of Trier, Germany’s oldest city
• Discover the historical Reims Cathedral
• Wander in Cochem and experience its stunning medieval town
• Explore Zurich on a city walk and lake cruise
• Land & Sea Exploration
• Wine Tasting
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Full Itinerary

Day 1: paris, france, day 2: paris, france.

• 1 Breakfast, 1 Dinner

Day 3: Reims, France & Trier, Germany | Embark

• Accommodation
• 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

Day 4: Trier & Bernkastel, Germany

Day 5: cochem, germany, day 6: koblenz, germany, day 7: mainz, germany, day 8: speyer, germany, day 9: strasbourg, france.

• 1 Breakfast

Day 10: Zürich & Basel, Switzerland | Disembark

Day 11: zürich, switzerland, day 12: zürich, switzerland, viking cruises, dates & prices, my preferred start date.

Initial deposit is $700, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.

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• 11 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 7 Dinners
• 11 Nights Accommodations
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Paris to the Swiss Alps

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Zurich ↔ Paris Zurich to Paris

Paris to zurich.

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Viking Cruises Paris to Swiss Alps Christmas Market River Cruise.

By: Author Kate O'Malley

Posted on Last updated: December 21, 2021

Home >> Destinations >> Viking Cruises Paris to Swiss Alps Christmas Market River Cruise.

With a reputation as one of the most scenic river cruises in Europe , a Rhine river cruise is the best way to visit Europe’s most enchanting Christmas Markets.

Viking Cruises Paris to the Swiss Alps river cruise itinerary is fabulous any time of year. An itinerary centred around the beauty and culture of the Rhine, incorporating some of Europe’s most beautiful and sophisticated cities and Switzerland’s unparalleled natural beauty. 

While summer, spring and fall are the most popular time to take a European river cruise, winter is a fantastic time of year to cruise the Rhine. 

We have always been big advocates of shoulder season and off-season travel. We consider, for many destinations, these are the best times to visit Europe . Cruises are no different.

Winter cruises offer unique opportunities – fewer tourist crowds than the summer, and alternative cultural experiences such as the varied Christmas celebrations and traditions. 

Table of Contents

Christmas Market Cruises

The Paris to the Swiss Alps itinerary does not change too much on a winter cruise, give or take some optional excursions. It does, however, allow the opportunity to visit some of the best Christmas markets in Europe. Each day a new town or city, each with its own unique Christmas market.

The itinerary also allows plenty of free time to browse the festive markets at leisure, shop for Christmas gifts and trinkets, and soak up the Christmas atmosphere. Of course, there is always plenty of Glühwein and hearty local fare to keep you warm. 

Many of the winter river cruises, or “Christmas Market Cruises” are the same as the rest of the year. As opposed to being a dedicated Christmas market cruise, they simply incorporate the Christmas markets into the existing itinerary.

We see this as a win-win – you get to see all of the best Christmas markets in Europe and experience a fabulous river cruise itinerary.

When it comes to choosing the best Christmas market cruise, you can’t pass up Germany’s Rhine and France’s Alsace regions for some of the most authentic Christmas market experiences in Europe. After all, Christmas markets – “ Weihnachtsmarkt” originated in Germany . 

Are Christmas Cruises More expensive?

Traditionally, Christmas and New Year’s cruises can be more expensive, but this is not always the case with winter river cruises in Europe.

As summer, late spring, and early fall are the peak seasons for river cruising in Europe; it is possible to find some great deals in winter.

December heralds the last sailings for the year (there are no sailings January or February) and despite the appeal of access to so many of Europe’s best Christmas markets, you can find some great cruise deals on winter river cruises in Europe.

We always advise people to look for Viking’s Early Booking Discounts and sign up for their last-minute deals and special offers. There are some amazing discounts available.

Depending on how close to Christmas, ancillary travel such as airfares may be more expensive. In this instance, we would advise looking at a Cruise Fly package taking advantage of Viking’s Air Travel Service. You may get a better flight deal, and of course, it’s more convenient.

Paris to the Swiss Alps Cruise

Paris to the Swiss Alps is not the first river cruise we have done, nor our first Viking cruise. We have sailed the length of the Danube from Bucharest to Budapest on the Passage to Eastern Europe Cruise , and on the Danube Waltz Cruise, Budapest to Passau .

We have sailed the Volga on a Russian river cruise from St Petersburg to Moscow  and explored the best of Scandinavia and northern Europe on the Viking Homelands ocean cruise . 

Why Choose Paris to The Swiss Alps for a Winter Christmas Market Cruise?

The Paris to the Swiss Alps Cruise interested us for many reasons, especially in winter. It was our first time experiencing a winter river cruise – what better countries than France, Germany and Switzerland to enjoy the best aspects of winter in Europe ?

It was also the perfect itinerary for exploring so many of the best Christmas markets in Europe.

Combined Cruise/Tour Itinerary

This particular cruise itinerary is more of a combined cruise/tour which we had not experienced before. The inclusion of 2 hotel nights at either side of the itinerary and some overland days appealed to us as an alternative to cruising for the entire itinerary. 

River Cruise Packing List : Wondering what to pack for a river cruise in Europe? We’ve got you covered with our Viking River Cruise Packing List and Cruise Packing Tips .

Shore Excursions

As with every Viking river cruise, the shore excursions are carefully curated to give guests the most immersive experience in each destination. Guests can connect with each destination beyond the cultural highlights through private tours and local experiences. 

The itinerary provides an included tour at every destination except Bernkastel and has an impressive selection of optional excursions to choose from at each stop. In many cases, we found the Included Tour option to be the best choice which is an indication of the quality of the shore excursions. 

Best of all, especially on a Christmas cruise where you want to enjoy the markets, there is ample time at each destination to explore on your own even after taking an Included Tour. Ease of access to most of the destinations from the ship also makes independent exploration very easy for guests. There were many opportunities to walk into town centres on our own.

Stay Safe While Visiting Europe’s Christmas Markets : Sadly, tourist attractions like Christmas markets also attract pickpockets. We’ve put together a complete guide on the Best Anti Theft Travel Bags, Gear and Devices to help you keep your gear safe while you enjoy Europe’s best Christmas markets.

Shore Excursion Tips

We have included tips on the excursions for each destination where we think it may help you decide which tours to book for your cruise. 

Paris to the Swiss Alps Cruise Itinerary

As with all Viking river cruises, the itinerary packs in some very impressive and memorable destinations into the 12-day cruise tour.

Covering four countries, visiting two of Europe’s most famous and sophisticated cities – Paris and Zurich, and discovering some of the most enchanting cities and towns along the Rhine. 

This particular cruise is also a standout for the scenery along the way. Whether cruising down the Rhine or touring through  the Swiss Alps , the landscape will leave you spellbound. The scenic sailing through the Middle Rhine was a highlight of the cruise. 

While we started the cruise tour from Paris, you can also start the cruise from Zurich finishing in Paris depending on sailing dates. 

The itinerary covers four countries over 12 days.

Paris France

• Reims France

Trier Germany

Bernkastel germany, cochem germany.

• Koblenz Germany (with scenic sailing through the Middle Rhine to Mainz)

Mainz Germany

• Speyer Germany (with an optional tour to Heidelberg & Martin Luther Worms)

Strasbourg France

• Basel Switzerland (with optional “highlight of the Alps” tour to Alpine villages including Interlaken)

Zurich Switzerland

Paris to swiss alps river cruise map.

Note the overland sections via motorcoach – Paris to Trier via Luxembourg to meet the ship and Basel to Zurich. 

The Destinations

Paris Excursions Paris Highlights (4hrs) – Included The Palace of Versailles (4hrs) – Optional Montmartre Hill Tour (3.5hrs) – Optional Paris Cabaret with Dinner at the Paradis Latin (4hrs) – Optional

As Paris is the starting (or finishing) point of the cruise, it will depend on your travel arrangements as to how long you have in the magnificent City Of Light. Undoubtedly, as it is a two-night stay in Paris, you will have at least one full day, if not, one and a half – two days. 

If it is your first time visiting Paris, you may wish to arrive (or leave) a few days either side as there is so much to see and enjoy in the French Capital. Viking does offer a pre and post-cruise option for this if you don’t wish to organise it yourself.  

Our arrival in Paris coincided with the start of the worst strikes France has experienced in years with public transport shut down, and many attractions closed. However, in Paris, there is still so much to enjoy, and the city is very walkable, so it barely impacted our stay. 

Despite the strikes, the scheduled cruise excursions still went ahead as Viking use private buses and tour companies. Only the Palace of Versailles tour was cancelled due to strike closure.

Christmas also brings a unique atmosphere to Paris. Seek out the Christmas markets dotted around the city, window shop under the festive lights, or cosy up in a Parisienne cafe with a hot bowl of Soupe à l’Oignon  and a glass of French red for a typical Parisian experience.

Strikes or no strikes, winter is a surprisingly lovely time to be in Paris. 

If it is your first time visiting Paris, we highly recommend taking the welcome walk if your travel arrangements allow as well as the included Panoramic Paris Highlights tour on the second morning.

These tours are a very handy way to quickly get your bearings in the city. You can also see many of the highlights in a short time from the comfort of a coach.

If you have never seen a cabaret show in Paris, the Paris Cabaret and Dinner is one of the most memorable evenings you will have in Paris – highly recommended. 

While Paris is a very walkable city, it would be advisable to make yourself familiar with the metro system to maximise your time. A welcome walk on arrival covers this in Paris

 Luxembourg /Reims France 

Luxembourg/Reims Excursions Reims Cathedral Tour (or in our case, Luxembourg City Tour and Luxembourg Notre Dame Cathedral Visit (1hr) – Included Luxembourg American Cemetery (1hr) – Included

Making up one part of the “tour” aspect of the cruise, Paris to Luxembourg and then onto Trier to meet the ship is by coach. It is a very long travel day considering the two stops are only short. Expect to leave Paris at around 7.30 am and arrive at the boat after 5.00 pm. On a clear day, however, the bus does pass through some very scenic countryside. 

The itinerary shows a stop at Reims in France for lunch and to visit the Reims Cathedral. We’re not sure why, but our schedule did not include this stop. Perhaps to suit the season, or due to delays in leaving Paris because of the strikes. 

Instead, we had a quick truck stop lunch and continued to Luxembourg City for a quick guided city tour and visit to the Luxembourg Notre Dame Cathedral. We felt seeing Luxembourg city, albeit briefly was possibly more enjoyable than visiting Reims.

Before departing Luxembourg to Trier, a stop at the Luxembourg American Cemetery allows guests time to pay homage to the thousands of Americans who lost their lives during the World War II Battle of the Bulge. 

Trier Excursions Trier Highlights (4hrs) – Included

The oldest city in Germany, the centre of the Moselle Valley and the birthplace of Karl Marx, Trier was once an important Roman outpost rivalling Rome in influence and size.

In the historical centre, remnants of the mighty Roman city are everywhere such as the 20,000 seat Roman amphitheatre and the UNESCO listed Porta Nigra. Yet, the medieval town that seems to sprawl from the magnificent Trier Cathedral has a vibrant and modern feel. 

Trier is also our first introduction to Germany’s traditional Christmas markets. As mentioned, Christmas markets originated in Germany, so what better introduction than in Germany’s oldest city. 

We only had half a day in Trier, which was plenty of time. Transfer to and from the ship in Trier is via bus (the ship moves while you are in Trier) so you must join the tour to visit the city. 

The Trier visit starts with an included guided walking tour in the morning, finishing in time for the opening of the Trier Christmas markets in the main square.

With around 2 hours of free time, you can explore the historical centre of Trier with ample time to retrace any of the highlights pointed out on the walking tour. Explore the Christmas markets, or enjoy a leisurely coffee in any one of Trier’s quaint coffee houses. 

Bernkastel Excursions Walking Tour and Bernkastel-Kues Wine Tasting (2hrs) – Optional

An afternoon cruise down the Moselle lands us late afternoon in the charming town of Bernkastel. Bernkastel is actually one half of a twin town with Kues across the river.

The two towns were united by a bridge in 1874 and unified in 1905. Bernkastel-Kues is known as the “Pearl of the Moselle” and a world-renown premier winemaking region.  

There is only an Optional Excursion in Bernkastel, a short walking tour followed by a wine tasting. For those not wanting to take part in the Optional Tour, the boat docks in the centre, so you have easy access to the historic town centre. 

We opted for the Optional Tour. A short walking tour through the charming medieval town. The narrow cobblestone streets, brightly coloured timber houses and of course, a Christmas market in the market square. 

The highlight of this tour was the wine tasting: a fun and informative session sampling around five wines from the region. We have been to many wine tastings but found this one particularly engaging. 

In our instance, we would have gladly missed the free tasting the following morning based on:

A: We had already done a similar tasting at the Optional Tour the night before and,

B: We found it difficult to enjoy or appreciate any wine at 9.00 am.

If you are on the Zurich – Paris itinerary, this should be reversed. The wine tasting in the included tour will be in the afternoon in Cochem and the Optional Tour the following day in the morning in Bernkastel.

Cochem Excursions Cochem, Reichsburg & the Moselle Valley (4.5hrs) – Included

One of the Moselle’s prettiest villages, Cochem is characterised by the impossibly steep vineyards that surround it and the 1000-year-old Reichsburg Castle on the hill above the town.

With nearly a full day in Cochem (early morning to mid-afternoon), there is plenty of time to enjoy the included tour and explorer further on your own. The ship docks in the town centre, so it is possible to come and go as you please. There is a small Christmas market in the main square on the riverfront. 

The Included Excursion includes a guided walking tour of the town, but the highlight is a private visit to the Reichsburg Castle, also known as Cochem Castle. Our first introduction to the famous fairytale castles of the Moselle and Rhine.

The tour of Reichsburg Castle offers invaluable insight into the history of the region and sets the scene for the castles you will see on the scenic cruising down the Middle Rhine. The views from the castle over the Moselle and the village of Cochem are worth the visit alone. 

Koblenz Germany 

Koblenz Excursions Historic Koblenz (2hrs) – Included

A morning in Koblenz starts from the “German Corner” the confluence of the Rhine and the Moselle. From here, for a short guided walking tour from the ship to the centre of Old Town.

The cities Roman, Napoleonic and Medieval influences are the basis for the Included Walking Tour.

The town’s charm, however, lies in the pretty riverside scenes and quaint historic centre where you will find the Christmas markets. The Koblenz Christmas markets are dotted around the historic centre in various squares so you can browse as you explore the centre. 

Koblenz also marks the start of one of the most picturesque stretches of the Rhine. 

Middle Rhine Scenic Sailing

Not just one of the most picturesque sections of the Rhine, the Middle Rhine is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Cruise through lush hills where the world’s steepest vineyards cascade down to the river’s edge. Where centuries-old methods are still used on the sheer slopes to cultivate and pick the grapes.

Keep an eye out for the Rhines most splendid castles, and the rock that gave way to the folklore of the siren who led sailors on the river to their demise – the Lorelei Rock .  

The scenic sailing was so enjoyable, it felt like a destination or excursion in its own right. In the winter months, you can still enjoy this sailing from the top deck, providing the weather is fine.

While it was a cold afternoon, the crew provided blankets and steaming hot gluhwein to keep us warm. 

Mainz Excursions Mainz Walking Tour and Gutenberg Museum (2hrs) – Included Historic Mainz & St Stephens Church (2hrs) – Optional

To our minds, Mainz is one of the most interesting cities on this stretch of the Rhine.

In the heart of the Rhine’s wine region, Mainz is the birthplace of Gutenberg and home to the Gutenberg Museum, one of the upper Rhines most beautiful cathedrals dominates the main square and Marc Chagall’s world-famous stained glass windows at St Stephen’s Church are a must-see.    

Mainz also has one of the best Christmas markets we had been to so far on the cruise. With a full day in Mainz (early morning to late evening) there is so much time for the excursions and to explore everything Mainz has to offer. 

The Included Excursion will take you through the historical centre, the Mainz Cathedral and the Gutenberg Museum . The optional tour includes a walking tour of the old town and a visit to St Stephen’s church to see Chagall’s stained glass windows .

We opted for the Included Walking Tour as it includes visits to the Gutenberg Museum and cathedral. We found St Stephens Church on our own in the spare time we had.

St Stephens is an easy 10-minute walk from the cathedral and is well signposted so easy to find. Entry to the church is free, and if you wish, the church offers guided tours. Although, it is best to check in advance to be sure of availability.  

Speyer Germany

Speyer Excursions Speyer Walking Tour (3hrs) – Included Heidelberg & Martin Luther Worms (8.5hrs) – Optional

A full day in Speyer, the ship docks an easy walking distance from the town centre. Speyer’s most prominent landmark is the massive UNESCO Romanesque Imperial  Cathedral in which eight emperors are interred. 

On the Included walking tour; you will visit the exterior of the Speyer Cathedral and learn about its history and architecture (you can visit the interior on your own after the tour).

Visit the Trinity Church, the oldest of the five Protestant churches in Speyer, and the Jewish Courtyard once home to one of the most important Jewish Synagogues and the most important medieval Jewish site in Germany. An interesting fact; Speyer is where the term Protestant originated. 

While not large, Speyer is a charming town worth exploring. The Christmas market is easy to find near the cathedral, and in summer, you may discover artisan and farmers markets on the main thoroughfare.

If you decide to take the Optional Excursion to Heidelberg, you will not have the opportunity to explore Speyer. 

Strasbourg Excursions Strasbourg Highlights (4hrs) – Included Taste the Best of Alsace: Christmas Markets (7 hrs) – Optional Mercedes Benz factory (4hrs) – Optional Alsatian Wine Tasting (4.5hrs) – Optional

Strasbourg is one of the most delightful cities we have visited, especially at Christmas. The Strasbourg stop has quite a lot of excursions on offer. Unless you had a specific interest in Mercedes Benz or were a wine buff, we found the included tour was a fabulous choice for the day, if not the best choice.  

Docking in Kehl Germany we were a mere bridge crossing from Strasbourg France and a short scenic coach tour from Strasbourg Old Town for a guided walking tour. 

The walking tour through the island Old Town gives you a good overview of the highlights of the city including Petit France, the old Tanner’s District, and Cathedral Square. It also includes a visit to the cathedral for a fascinating explanation of the astronomical clock. 

If you choose, you can return to the ship for lunch with the option of a return shuttle to Strasbourg at 1.30. We believe opting to stay in town is a better option as it allows much more time to explore the incredibly beautiful city before returning at 4.30 pm.

Also, there are so many charming restaurants in Strasbourg where you can enjoy some delicious Alsatian cuisine. 

Strasbourg, dubbed “The Capital of Christmas” has nine Christmas markets in the historic centre so there is a lot to do and see in Strasbourg at Christmas time.

Comparable to taking the Included Tour in the morning, then, strolling the markets at your own pace, I am not sure how much more value the “Taste the Best of Alsace: Christmas Markets” Optional Tour would be. Other than sampling some local foods around the markets.

Basel Switzerland 

Basel Excursions Basel Highlights (2.5hrs) – Included Highlights of the Alps (10.5hrs) – Optional

Basel, the intersection of three countries is where we farewell the ship and embark on the last “tour” part of the trip.

In Basel, you have a choice of joining the Included walking tour around Basel Old Town followed by a coach transfer to Zurich to your hotel.

The Optional Tour from Basel, we felt, would be the stand out tour of the trip – Highlights of the Alps. A scenic drive through Switzerland’s alpine country to visit the villages of Brienz and Interlaken. The highlight: take the cogwheel train from Grindelwald to Kleine Scheidegg for lunch overlooking some of the world’s most stunning mountain vistas. 

Unfortunately, such is the nature of alpine weather; our tour was somewhat hit and miss. Due to heavy storms, the cogwheel train was not running, so the highlight of the day had to be cancelled.

However, as the weather is so changeable, we still pressed on in the hope the train line might open. Sadly, it did not.

Regardless, we still enjoyed a beautiful day visiting Interlaken and Brienz. Travelling along the magnificent Brünig Pass skirting Lake Thun and Lake Brienz. We were treated to some superb views, and dramatic weather changes. 

We would highly recommend the highlights of the Alps Optional Tour but do bear in mind; the weather will dictate how it plays out, especially in winter. 

Zurich Excursions Zurich Walking Tour and Lake Cruise (4hrs) – Included Lindt Exclusive Chocolate Workshop (3hrs) – Optional

The last stop on the cruise tour, Switzerland’s largest city, Zurich. Again, depending on your travel arrangements and optional tour choices, you may only have one full day in Zurich.

Got More Time in Zurich? Try These 5 Fantastic Day Trips From Zurich

Still, we felt the Included Tour is a fabulous overview of the city, leaving you more than half a day to explore further on your own. (In summer, you would have a lot more time with the extended daylight hours.) 

The Included Tour incorporates a comprehensive walking tour of the Old Town with a cruise of Lake Zurich. Using the Lake Zurich ferry system, the 2hr cruise takes you around the entire route of Lake Zurich.

At the same time, your tour guide provides the commentary of each stop. Keep a lookout for the lakeside Zurich home of a certain famous American singer (Ahem, Tina Turner).

Ideally, on a clear day, the backdrop to the cruise is the  magnificent Swiss Alps . Unfortunately, the storm of the previous day was keeping them enshrouded in cloud. 

The tours finish before lunch, leaving plenty of time to explore the Zurich Christmas markets scattered around the city. Including one of the largest indoor Christmas markets in Europe at the Zurich train station.

We found it interesting to note the difference in Christmas markets compared with those of Germany and France. Switzerland’s Christmas markets , while undeniably Swiss (raclette or fondue anyone?), had a modern flair with a very multicultural offering in the stalls. It was quite refreshing.  

On arrival at the hotel, the Viking staff will do a short welcome walk around the hotel to show you how to navigate the public transport system.

Take the Time to Explore West Quarter in Zurich

We found the area around the hotel in the West Quarter well worth exploring as well. The former industrial area has been reclaimed and repurposed into Zurich’s most vibrant and happening inner-city neighbourhood. Expect to find a hotspot for food, culture, art, and design in West Quarter. 

You Might Also Like: Ride the Famous Golden Pass Line.

A trip on the Golden Pass Line, one of the world’s most scenic rail routes, is a wonderful addition to your Paris to the Swiss Alps Cruise itinerary. Read our guide on everything you need to know about the Golden Pass Train Lucerne to Montreux .

Paris to the Swiss Alps Cruise Facts

We have always said, a river cruise offers a sampling of destinations you may not have otherwise visited. Giving you a cultural overview of one, or maybe more regions in Europe. As well as the possibility for experiences you may not have found or organised for yourself.

The Paris to the Swiss Alps cruise immerses you in the Rhine region and gives you a taste of some of the world’s most spectacular cities and experiences. However, to do this cruise in winter offers a rare opportunity, to easily experience not just one, but a good sampling of Europe’s best Christmas markets.

An itinerary we would recommend any time of year for the experiences it offers, and world-class destinations visited. But for those seeking out Europe’s quintessential Christmas experience, this is the ideal Christmas Market river cruise. 

We travelled from Paris – Zurich as guests of Viking Cruises on the Paris to the Swiss Alps Cruise.

The 12-day cruise includes 4 countries and 10 guided tours.

Prices start from  $2,899 pp.

We recommend checking  Viking Cruises official site  for promotional deals such as Early Bird Specials or Two for One Air.

We want to thank Viking Cruises for hosting us on the Paris to the Swiss Alps Cruise. As always, all opinions are our own. 

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Pay your respects at the Luxembourg American Cemetery. Discover Roman Trier. Taste Moselle Rieslings and visit the wine town of Bernkastel-Kues. Enjoy scenic cruising past the town of Sankt Goar, home of the Lorelei Rock, and through the Rhine Gorge, a UNESCO Site. Visit fascinating Worms and the university town of Heidelberg. Vineyard-flanked slopes and historic cities, along with hotel stays in Paris and Zürich, make this 12-day cruisetour irresistible.

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The 10 best places to go on a river cruise in Europe 

Jun 7, 2024 • 8 min read

Appreciate the beautiful architecture of Budapest from the Danube © Sanga Park / Shutterstock © Sanga Park / Shutterstock

Cruising down a quiet, traffic-free river, surrounded by scenic riverfront views is an ideal way to see Europe . You can sip your wine while watching picture-perfect scenery breeze past – taking in castles, medieval villages and fields of flowers. 

By necessity, European riverboats are small and passenger numbers are often fewer than 200, making these cruises a far more social and intimate experience. There’s also plenty to do and see onshore, and with more frequent stops you can enjoy more onshore activities. Cruise lines are now also offering more immersive learning experiences such as cooking classes and home visits, or activities like bicycle trips and long hikes.

The hardest part is choosing where to go — which is why we've rounded up the 10 best places to go on a European river cruise. (Once you've chosen your cruise, check out our definitive cruise packing guide .)

1. Northern Rhine (Germany)

From gorgeous river meanders and noble German cities

The northern section of the Rhine features dramatic landscapes and a host of interesting towns. Cologne (Köln), Germany ’s fourth-largest city, offers numerous attractions starting with its famous cathedral, while Koblenz, at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers, is a park- and flower-filled delight. Heading south, the Rhine meanders between hillside castles and steep fields of wine-producing grapes. Idyllic villages appear around each bend, their half-timbered houses and Gothic steeples seemingly plucked from a fairy tale. Scarcely damaged during WWII, handsome Speyer is crowned by a magnificent Romanesque cathedral. 

2. Southern Rhine (France, Germany & Switzerland)

Explore intriguing towns in this border land

The Southern Rhine forms the border between Germany and France before becoming Switzerland ’s northern frontier. Strasbourg is the perfect overture to all that is idiosyncratic about Alsace – walking a fine tightrope between France and Germany, between a medieval past and a progressive future. Further south, the Black Forest spills into Alsace in the German town of Breisach. Unsurprisingly, given its geographical and cultural proximity to France, the locals here have a passion for a good bottle of wine. Basel, at the juncture of the French, German and Swiss borders, is perhaps where Switzerland’s Franco-Germanic roots are most evident.

3. Rhône (France)

Indulge in gourmet experiences cruising the south of France

Commanding a strategic spot at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône Rivers, grand old Lyon is France’s gastronomic capital. Downstream, the Rhône forges past Vienne’s Roman ruins and the centuries-old Côtes du Rhône vineyards, opening to sunny vistas of fruit orchards, lavender fields and the distant Alps as it continues south. During the 14th century, the Provençal town of Avignon was the center of the Roman Catholic world. Its impressive legacy of ecclesiastical architecture most notably includes the soaring, World Heritage-listed Palais des Papes .

4. Western Danube (Austria & Germany)

Romantic landscapes in the heart of Europe

The baroque streetscapes and imperial palaces set the stage for Vienna ’s artistic and musical masterpieces alongside its coffee-house culture and vibrant epicurean and design scenes. Moving into Germany, the Danube gently winds its way to the Italianate city of Passau . Top billing in eastern Bavaria goes to Regensburg, a former capital and one of Germany’s prettiest and liveliest cities. Nuremberg (Nürnberg), Bavaria’s second-largest city and the unofficial capital of Franconia, is an energetic place with a history that ranges from undeclared capital of the Holy Roman Empire to the trials that judged Nazi war crimes.

5. Eastern Danube (Hungary & Serbia)

Travel a cross-section of Europe’s less-touristed east

The two great cities of this stretch of the Danube are the capitals of Hungary and Serbia respectively. Budapest has something for everyone – from dramatic history and flamboyant architecture to healing thermal waters. Outspoken, adventurous, proud and audacious: Belgrade ("White City") has a gritty exuberance and eclectic architecture making it one of Europe’s most happening cities today. While it hurtles towards a brighter future, its past unfolds before your eyes: socialist blocks are squeezed between art nouveau masterpieces and remnants of the Habsburg legacy contrast with Ottoman relics.

6. Douro (Portugal)

See spectacular terraced vineyards, the home of port wine

The Douro region, home to port wine, is simply one of the most glorious spots on earth. The Douro Valley showcases steep terraced vineyards carved into mountains, granite bluffs, whitewashed quintas (estates) and 18th-century wine cellars that draw visitors from around the world. Humble-yet-opulent Porto entices with its higgledy-piggledy medieval center, divine food and wine, and charismatic locals. Its charms are as subtle as the nuances of an aged tawny port, best savored slowly.

7. Elbe (Czech Republic & Germany)

A little-cruised but picturesque stretch of Central Europe

Covering the Czech Republic and a thick slice of eastern Germany, Elbe cruises are under-the-radar options. Prague , not on the Elbe but usually included on river cruises, contends with cities like Budapest and Paris in terms of beauty. Its maze of cobbled lanes and hidden courtyards is perfect for the aimless wanderer. The classic view of Dresden from the Elbe’s northern bank takes in spires, towers and domes belonging to palaces, churches and stately buildings: hard to believe that the city was all but wiped off the map by Allied bombings in 1945. While the city of Wittenberg is first and foremost about Martin Luther, the monk who triggered the German Reformation in 1517.

8. Seine (France)

Cruise out of Paris through northern France

Paris has a timeless familiarity, with instantly recognizable architectural icons, memorable cuisine and chic boutiques. Dining is a quintessential part of the Parisian experience, and its art repository is one of the best, showcasing priceless treasures in palatial museums. Don't miss Rouen is one of Normandy’s most engaging and historically rich destinations, with its soaring Gothic cathedral, beautifully restored medieval quarter, excellent museums and vibrant cultural life. At the mouth of the Seine, Le Havre is a love letter to modernism, evoking France’s postwar energy and optimism.

9. Main (Germany)

A seductive German river connecting to the Rhine and Danube

Rising in Franconia and joining the Rhine near Mainz, the Main (pronounced "mine") is the longest German-only river. From Bamberg to its confluence, it travels some 400km through locks and picturesque scenery, dotted with historic towns. Frankfurt ’s skyscrapers are quite a contrast to the picturesque towns that follow, though it too has a rather traditional and charming old town. Scenic Würzburg is renowned for its art, architecture and delicate wines. A disarmingly beautiful architectural masterpiece, Bamberg’s entire Altstadt is a UNESCO World Heritage site. 

10. Moselle (Germany)

An intimate stretch of the wine-producing German region

Having traversed France and Luxembourg , the Moselle heads through Germany to meet its destiny with the Rhine at Koblenz. It’s a very pretty stretch of river flanked by vineyards, and makes for great leisurely cruising and exploration. With an astounding nine UNESCO World Heritage sites, gorgeous Trier shelters Germany’s finest ensemble of Roman monuments, and is enlivened by a characterful medieval center and large student population. Bernkastel-Kues are lovely twin settlements in the heart of wine country, while Cochem’s castle and pretty buildings make it a visual highlight of the Moselle .

How do I choose a route for a European river cruise?

The two major rivers for European cruises are the Rhine and the Danube. Together, they were once the northern boundary of the Roman Empire. Rhine cruises often run from Amsterdam to Basel, following the course of the river through Germany. Danube cruises start in southern Germany, wend their way through Bratislava, Slovakia; Linz and Vienna, Austria; and Belgrade, Serbia; then skirt the Bulgarian and Romanian border to reach the Black Sea.

While many first-time European river cruisers stick to these two rivers, there are many other options available. In Western Europe, you can cruise through the French countryside on the Rhône and Seine, or check out the vineyards of Portugal on the Douro. 

Even on the same river, distinct routes can be offered. One company might zip up the Rhine, allowing you to see the highlights in a few days; another might take longer, exploring smaller places along the way and offering more time for onshore experiences. You'll need to decide whether you’d like to get a look at more destinations, or more of a feel for fewer places.

When is the best time to go on a European river cruise?

Cruises on European rivers tend to begin in the spring, around March, and go through to October. Some cruises, operating in areas where Christmas markets are a feature, run right through December but inclement weather or river flooding could put a dampener on plans. Winter cruises tend to focus on places where Christmas experiences are on offer. Shorter daylight hours mean you’ll see less scenery, but the charm of the festive season has its own appeal. 

Choosing your season is very much a matter of personal preference, and there are pros and cons for each season. Summer cruises offer the most spectacular scenery, the longest daylight hours and the best weather, but the towns you visit will be far busier and you won’t be alone in port; in some smaller places, you may have to scramble across the decks of other boats to reach the shore.

Spring and autumn mean less time around the pool on the top deck, but quieter times ashore. Expect rains in spring, but also blooming flowers. Autumn is a great time to cruise the Douro, with grapes being picked and clement temperatures.

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May 24, 2024 • 9 min read

A Zürich, Switzerland Land Trip With Viking River Cruise

D uring our unforgettable Paris to the Swiss Alps cruise with Viking River Cruises, my husband (Eddie) and I found ourselves in the captivating city of Zürich, Switzerland. Although I had been to Switzerland before, Zürich was an unexplored gem. Viking River Cruises seamlessly transported us from the cruise ship to the hotel, and later to the airport, as part of their all-inclusive package.

Zürich bewitched us with its mesmerizing beauty and undeniable charm, despite being notoriously expensive. Over the course of our two-day stay, we eagerly immersed ourselves in the city’s delights, making the most of the complimentary walking tour and invigorating boat ride organized by Viking River Cruises. Allow me to share a glimpse of what awaits you on your visit to Zürich.

Read more about the 12 day river cruise here.

Zürich Scenery

Breathtaking scenery unfurls in every direction in Zürich. Whether it be the grandeur of the architectural masterpieces or the vibrant façades of historical buildings, the snow-capped Swiss Alps serving as a backdrop or the enchanting cobblestone streets that wound their way through the city, there is no shortage of picturesque moments that will prompt your camera to work overtime.

Zürich is an incredible city to explore on foot. Without even realizing it, we covered an impressive seven miles in a single day, diligently recorded by our trusty Fitbit. Such was the pleasure derived from our stroll that the concept of distance faded away, leaving us fully engrossed in the awe-inspiring ambiance that unfolded at every turn.

The Food in Zürich

Switzerland is renowned for its exquisite culinary offerings, with one of my personal favorites being cheese. Everywhere you go, you’ll encounter a plethora of exotic cheese choices. During my visit, indulging in authentic Swiss cheese fondue at the Swiss Chuchi Restaurant , nestled in the heart of the old town, was a must for me and my companion Eddie.

We opted for the traditional recipe, combining Vaudois cheese, white wine, cherry liquor, and garlic, resulting in a gastronomic delight that exceeded all expectations.

Another popular cheese delicacy in Zürich is raclette, which has recently gained popularity even in American eateries. While exploring the town, we noticed numerous raclette shops scattered around, its tantalizing aroma captivating our senses well before catching sight of it.

It’s worth noting that dining in Zürich can be quite costly. Simple meals often came with a hefty price tag of $24, and even a small bottled soda would cost between $4 and $7 at our hotel. Surprisingly, beer turned out to be more economical than both water and soda.

However, in the old town, we stumbled upon a gem called Blue Monkey —a delightful Thai restaurant boasting chic decor and offering a lunch buffet priced at $26 per person. I wholeheartedly recommend this establishment for an exquisite culinary experience.

Overall, Switzerland’s gastronomic offerings, particularly its cheese creations, exceeded all expectations, and I thoroughly enjoyed every moment of my culinary adventure in this beautiful country.

Parade Square

Eddie and I thoroughly enjoyed strolling through Paradeplatz (Parade Square) located in downtown Zürich. This upscale district is renowned for its exceptional shopping opportunities and the chance to observe people in action.

Parade Square places fashion and accessories at center stage, while home accents come in a close second.

If you happen to be staying outside the downtown area, fret not as getting there is incredibly convenient via the tram system. Coming from someone who seldom relies on public transportation, I can attest to its ease of use.

Tram stations provide instructions in English and accept credit cards. They are maintained well, operate efficiently, and offer a superb means of traversing Zürich. As you journey through the city, do observe the dignified architecture and stunning floral displays that grace its streets.

Lake Zürich

During our Viking River post-cruise excursion, we had the pleasure of embarking on a delightful boat ride around the picturesque Lake Zurich. The boat tour commences from Bürkliplatz and extends for approximately 90 minutes.

With both indoor and outdoor seating options, passengers are treated to breathtaking views of the serene lake and majestic, snow-capped mountains.

Our route led us to the charming medieval town of Rapperswil, featuring a captivating 12th-century castle gracefully perched on a hillside across the lake. If desired, passengers had the flexibility to disembark in Rapperswil and catch a later boat back into town.

Undoubtedly, the boat ride boasts exceptional scenery, allowing guests to relish the rejuvenating fresh air. Moreover, this memorable experience came at no cost for Viking River Cruise guests, ensuring that you seize the opportunity to partake in it.

Our Zürich Hotel

During our Viking River Cruise, we had the pleasure of being accommodated at the Sheraton Zürich Hotel , an elegant and sophisticated establishment situated in a cosmopolitan district. The rooms provide a comfortable sitting area, heavenly beds, an ergonomic desk and work area, a mini-fridge, and a refreshing shower, ensuring a pleasant stay.

To the delight of cruise ship guests, Viking offers a complimentary breakfast in a private space at the hotel, which proved to be a significant money-saving opportunity. Moreover, the Sheraton Hotel’s convenient location near the Toni-Areal tram station opens up a plethora of possibilities for exploring the city.

Zürich, Switzerland: One for the Books!

Zürich itself is known for its stunning scenery, making it a lovely city to visit. As part of Switzerland, a truly breathtaking country with an abundance of attractions, Zürich stands out as my favorite city thus far.

Read more from our Viking River Cruises:

Things to Know for your Viking Cruise

Remembering My Rhine River Cruise

• Expeditions
• Complimentary Brochures
• Paris to Zürich
• Zürich to Paris

Paris to the Swiss Alps

• From $3,499
• 10 Guided Tours
• 4 Countries
• Dates & Pricing
• 2024 2025 2026
• Paris to Zürich Zürich to Paris

Paris to the Swiss Alps Map

Explore Paris & sail the Rhine

Pay your respects at the Luxembourg American Cemetery. Discover Roman Trier. Taste Moselle Rieslings and visit the wine town of Bernkastel-Kues. Enjoy scenic cruising past the town of Sankt Goar, home of the Lorelei Rock, and through the Rhine Gorge, a UNESCO Site. Visit fascinating Worms and the university town of Heidelberg. Vineyard-flanked slopes and historic cities, along with hotel stays in Paris and Zürich, make this 12-day cruisetour irresistible.

SUMMER SOLSTICE SALE

Viking Inclusive Value

All you need included, with no surprises or hidden fees

To learn more about each port of call and our included as well as optional excursions, click on the individual days below.

Itinerary and shore excursions are subject to change and may vary by departure.

Airport meet and greet transfers included when air is purchased from Viking Cruises.

More features, services and excursions included

One complimentary shore excursion in every port of call

Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary)

Beer, wine & soft drinks with onboard lunch & dinner

24-hour specialty coffees, teas  & bottled water

Port taxes & fees

Ground transfers with Viking Air purchase

Visits to UNESCO Sites

Enrichment lectures & Destination Performances

Your Stateroom Includes:

River-view stateroom

Bottled water replenished daily

110/220 volt outlets

Queen-size Viking Explorer Bed (optional twin-bed configuration) with luxury linens & pillows

Private bathroom with shower, heated floor & anti-fog mirror

Premium Freyja® toiletries

Plush robes & slippers (upon request)

40" or 42" flat-screen Sony® TV with infotainment system featuring Movies On Demand, plus CNBC, CNN, FOX & more

Telephone, safe, refrigerator

Individual climate control

*All amenities on board Viking Longships; amenities vary on other ships.

Pre & Post Cruise Extensions

More days means more to discover, with extension packages you can add before or after your Viking cruise or cruisetour. Enjoy additional days to explore your embarkation or disembarkation city, or see a new destination altogether with a choice of exciting cities. Pre & Post Cruise Extensions vary by itinerary and are subject to change.

From $749 | 2 Nights

Post: Zermatt & Geneva

From $2,299 | 4 Nights

Post: Milan

From $1,099 | 3 Nights

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