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Rhine Cruise to Switzerland

Rhine Cruise to Switzerland

About This Cruise

Glide past the pretty towns along the Rhine River, experience the Rhine Gorge, explore Alsace’s Strasbourg, see the Black Forest and the breathtaking Alpine scenery on a mountain rail journey into the Bernese Oberland.

From the legendary Rhine Gorge, where castles rise above steep vineyard terraces, to the timber-framed villages of Alsace and the snow-dusted peaks of Switzerland, this cruise showcases the Rhine at its most enchanting. Wander historic Koblenz and Strasbourg, discover Rüdesheim’s unique character, explore the Black Forest or Alsace Wine Route, and enjoy specially curated experiences that reveal the region’s rich wine heritage, history and culture. Complete your journey with time in beautiful Lucerne and the magnificent mountain scenery of the Bernese Oberland. 

This Swiss river cruise is ideal for travellers looking for a relaxing way to see stunning alpine views and visit historic European towns. 

Who Is This Cruise For?

  • Couples

    Luxury service and an intimate, small-ship feel

  • Over 50s

    A gentle pace with daily excursions and no sea days

  • Solo travellers

    Riviera Travel offers dedicated solo cabins or solo fares

Type

River, Luxury

Ship

MS Emily Bronte

Departure Date

11 September 2028

Cruise Line

Riviera Travel

Duration

7 Nights

Select Your Cabin Type
Select your cabin type
Call Us at 01 6874149

Itinerary

Germany

Cologne

Arrival in Cologne - Arrive in Cologne and board your ship in the late afternoon. If you're here before then, enjoy free time in Cologne.The dedicated English-speaking crew will welcome you aboard your first-class floating hotel, ensuring you settle into your luxurious, well-equipped cabin and familiarise yourself with the ship.

Germany

Koblenz

Koblenz - As you wake to a sumptuous breakfast, the delights of this river cruise begin to emerge as we drift past the first rolling hills of the Rhine Valley.The forested Siebengebirge – Seven Mountains – a cluster of ancient volcanic hills that inspired many of the Brothers Grimm’s legends, including ‘Snow White’, act as the overture for even more dramatic scenery upstream.We cruise past the famous ruined bridge at Remagen, which was captured intact by the Allies towards the end of the Second World War, allowing thousands of troops to cross into Germany’s heartland.Pretty waterfront towns and carefully tended vineyards come into view as we glide gently into our mooring to visit delightful Koblenz for a guided tour.Founded by the Romans, this historic city is beautifully located at the confluence of the Rhine and its sister river the Moselle. Discover Koblenz’s maze of medieval buildings in the Altstadt – old town – which is studded with a fine array of traditional shops and classic Rhineland cafés.As you wander, historic buildings appear seemingly at every turn; see a former mint, the Four Towers – 17th-century houses with striking turrets set at a crossroads – and many fascinating squares and churches, including the 9th-century Basilica of Saint Kastor.Wherever you wander you’re never far from a riverbank, and it’s worth crossing the 14th-century stone Balduin Bridge across the Moselle for fine views back across the spires of the Altstadt.Tonight, enjoy a meticulously prepared dinner on board, and afterwards, delight in the upbeat sounds of Rhenish folk music with a live performance of traditional instruments.Personalise Your Holiday -Cable car ride to Ehrenbreitstein fortress and visitDuration: At leisurePrice: From £21pp (2026) and £23pp (2027 & 2028)Take a scenic cable car over the Rhine River to the impressive Ehrenbreitstein fortress, which stands 118 meters tall on its riverbanks. Built by the Prussians to fend off the French, it's the second-largest preserved fortress in Europe, with an unparalleled view of Koblenz and the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers. Here, you can explore the castle's 1000-year history at leisure before returning to Koblenz by cable car.Optional excursion can be done during free time or instead of the walking tour of Koblenz.Please contact us at least three weeks before your departure to add this experience to your booking. Minimum and maximum numbers apply. If not enough guests opt for this extra, the experience may not run.

Germany

Rüdesheim

Rhine Gorge & Rüdesheim - Slipping our mooring at Koblenz we proceed upstream on the Rhine and soon encounter the impressive Marksburg Castle, a fortress dating back to the 13th-century.We then weave through the huge looping bend – one of the most impressive on the river – at Boppard, a wonderfully picturesque town known as the ‘Pearl of the Rhine’.Journeying further, you explore the most famous of all the river’s reaches and a real highlight of the cruise, the dramatic Rhine Gorge: steep vineyards give way to almost vertical rocky outcrops towering above the sweeping valley sides. Sailing past Saint Goar and the many ruined castles, there’s a real sense of the myths surrounding this historic river coming alive around you.After lunch we moor in Rüdesheim, a classic Rhine wine village with crooked houses sloping down from wooded hillsides and terraced vineyards.Rüdesheim is a delight to wander, witness the bustling marketplace, the half-timbered Klunkhardshof and Brömserburg Castle, which dates from 1275. This afternoon you are free to explore at leisure or choose from one of our included experiences:You could visit Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet, a fantastical adventure into the world of automatic musical instruments. See the impressive collection of fascinating musical instruments that function like computers, ranging from tiny, delicate music boxes to an enormous orchestrion.Or you might choose to travel up the hillside, above Rüdesheim's famous vineyards, in a two-seater cable car enjoying lovely views of the Rhine River and surrounding countryside. At the top the views get even better, and a stroll around the Niederwald monument – which celebrates the unification of Germany by Prussians in the 1870s - allows for a peaceful moment looking out over the town.After dinner this evening, another sumptuous affair prepared by your chef, maybe sample a small Asbach – the famous brandy distilled in Rüdesheim – while watching the last of the ferries crossing the river in the moonlight glow. Personalise Your Holiday -Wine tasting at a local wineryDuration: 1hr 30 minsPrice: £25pp (2026) and £27pp (2027)Visit a winery in Rüdesheim to taste the local wine. In the atmospheric backdrop of a historic wine cave, enjoy sampling the varieties this region is famous for, including Riesling, Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris, and learn interesting facts about the viticulture and the history of wine in the area.Please note: Due to the location of the wine tasting, it's advised all guests bring a jacket.Optional excursion can be done during free time in Rüdesheim.Please contact us at least three weeks before your departure to add this experience to your booking. Minimum and maximum numbers apply. If not enough guests opt for this extra, the experience may not run.

Germany

Speyer

Speyer - Still sailing upstream, the landscape becomes much wider and flatter, with gently rolling hills and vineyards that are home to the Liebfraumilch wines. Occasionally the excited chatter of birdlife breaks out as we pass oxbow lakes, long deserted by the river flow, which are now havens for over a hundred bird species.Today we berth in historic Speyer, founded by the Celts and one of Germany’s oldest cities, celebrated for its illustrious past, for an afternoon walking tour. The breathtaking Imperial Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is among the largest Romanesque churches in the world; it’s also one of the finest. Its beautiful four-roomed crypt is the resting place of many Holy Roman emperors and German kings.Another landmark is the magnificent neo-Gothic Gedächtniskirche, built at the turn of the 20th-century to commemorate the 1529 ‘Protestation at Speyer’, a significant event when a group of Martin Luther’s followers protested against his imperial ban – henceforth Luther’s religious followers were known as ‘Protestants’.There’s free time to explore here before stepping back on board for another splendid dinner.Personalise Your Holiday -Visit to the Technik MuseumDuration: At leisurePrice: £26pp (2026) and £28pp (2027)Discover technology from the underwater world to space. Ever wonder what the inside of a submarine looks like? Or how big a jumbo jet is? From aircraft to vintage crafts, fire engines to mechanical instruments, there's plenty to inspire and amaze!Included in your entrance is a ticket to the IMAX theatre where the gigantic screen shows fascinating movies detailing incredible technological feats and natural wonders.Optional excursion can be done after or instead of the walking tour of Speyer.Please contact us at least three weeks before your departure to add this experience to your booking. Minimum and maximum numbers apply. If not enough guests opt for this extra, the experience may not run.

France

Strasbourg

Strasbourg - This morning we cruise gently upstream, passing through two spectacular locks, whose elaborate engineering never ceases to fascinate. Why not find a comfortable chair and catch up on some reading, play chess or watch the rolling kaleidoscope of scenery from the Sun Deck?We soon arrive in France and moor in Strasbourg, capital of the Alsace region. This afternoon we have a walking tour of its picturesque Old Town, bisected by canals and made up of a maze of narrow streets lined with timber-framed houses and sculptured portals.Unforgettable sites include the stupendous Gothic Notre-Dame Cathedral, multi-towered Ponts Couverts – covered bridges – and the pretty Petite France quarter of pastel-coloured former artisans’ houses lining the canals.Don’t be surprised if you’re tempted to linger a while in a typical Alsatian café to sample some of the region’s world-famous wines – a crisp Riesling or that particular speciality of Alsace, spicy Gewürztraminer.After another delicious dinner on board, you can retire to the lounge to enjoy tonight's live performance of popular music spanning the years by a highly talented violin soloist.Personalise your holiday -Land train tour of StrasbourgPrice: from €9ppDuration: 30-40 minsHop on the Little Train and discover the charming narrow streets of Strasbourg's old town, the romantic 'Petite France', the many quays and covered bridges and the famous Cathedral Square.Optional excursions can be done after or instead of the guided walking tour.This excursion can be arranged on board and is payable locally. Personalise your holiday -Take a cruise tour of StrasbourgPrice: from €16.20ppDuration: 1hr 10minsDiscover Strasbourg from a unique perspective - the water! As it flows through the centre of the city, you'll explore three of Strasbourg's 15 districts. Along the way, you'll spot the UNESCO-protect Grande Île, the imperial district of Neustadt, the European Parliament and more.Optional excursions can be done after or instead of the guided walking tour.This excursion can be arranged on board and is payable locally.

Germany

Breisach

Breisach & Black Forest or Alsace wine route - This morning's cruising is spent gliding through the dramatic scenery of the rift valley separating the Vosges and Black Forest mountains.We arrive at the ancient town of Breisach, whose historic heart is surrounded by stone ramparts and dominated by the impressive Saint Stephan’s Cathedral, which you can see during time at leisure before lunch onboard.This afternoon you have a choice of touring the Black Forest or visiting the Alsace wine route with its typical wine villages. Journey deep into the heart of the Black Forest, where towering pine-clad slopes, dramatic valleys and traditional villages create one of Germany's most captivating landscapes. Following a scenic route through the spectacular Höllental (Valley of Hell), we'll pass beneath steep rock faces and through thick forests that have inspired myths and legends for centuries.As the scenery changes, we'll discover a gentler side to the region, travelling through rolling farmland dotted with traditional Black Forest farmhouses and picture-perfect villages. Continuing through Sankt Märgen, we'll arrive in Sankt Peter, a charming village set high on a plateau with sweeping views across the surrounding countryside.Here, you'll have free time to explore at your own pace. Admire the magnificent Benedictine monastery and Baroque abbey, wander the peaceful village streets or simply soak up the panoramic scenery that stretches across this beautiful corner of the Black Forest before we return to the ship.Travelling, between the vineyards and mountains, along the Wine Route we make our way to Ribeauvillé - a charming village that lies in the shadow of the majestic ruins of the Three Castles of the Lords of Ribeaupierre. After a short walking tour, there's time to wander its picturesque streets to admire the 15th- to 18th-century buildings and Renaissance squares.Leaving Ribeauvillé, we head next to Riquewihr. Named the 'Most Beautiful Village in France', this medieval town lies right in the heart of the Alsatian vineyards. Famous for both its architecture and its wine, there's plenty to see during our walking tour. Afterwards, you can enjoy a little free time to explore before heading back to the ship.Back on board this evening there’s a truly memorable occasion – the ‘Chef’s Dinner’, when the chef prepares his superb ‘signature’ dishes for you to enjoy in the splendid surroundings of the ship’s restaurant, featuring delicious specialities of the countries and regions we visit during our cruise. Overnight we will continue to Switzerland and our final stop, Basel.

Switzerland

Lucerne

Lucerne & Bernese Oberland - Today you have the choice between a full day excursion to Lucerne and the Bernese Oberland, or a more leisurely guided tour of Lucerne and free afternoon in Basel.LucerneTo make the most of the day, we depart early and take the short drive to Lucerne, often considered Switzerland’s most beautiful city, spectacularly situated among stunning mountain views.It has been attracting well-heeled visitors for two centuries, including our very own Queen Victoria. Highly recommended is an invigorating stroll along the Chapel Bridge, a unique covered wooden walkway crossing the lake, supported by stilts and lined with colourful flower-filled window boxes. Not only is it the city’s most iconic structure, it’s a superb way to absorb Lucerne’s regal atmosphere, before we continue our exploration of the best of Switzerland.Bernese OberlandAs you enter the Bernese Oberland in central Switzerland, the views become quite literally breath-taking! This is the grand alpine heart of Europe with some of the finest mountain scenery on earth, described by the composer Mendelssohn as ‘the most wonderful of all in this unbelievably beautiful country’.On viewing the legendary snow-capped peaks of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau you’ll be quite simply awestruck. We then ascend by mountain railway for more extraordinary vistas, with the crystal-clear lakes reflecting the meadows and forests below. This truly magical landscape is sure to enchant you.Later we’ll descend again by mountain railway before returning to the ship. Please note, temperatures will be significantly lower at altitude, even during the summer months, so it’s advisable to pack suitable clothing. Lunch is not included on this full day excursion; however, the ship will offer a packed lunch. If you chose a more leisurely start to the day, we drive to Lucerne.LucerneEnjoy a more comprehensive excursion in Lucerne, with a guided tour of the city. Then spend time at leisure wandering its medieval streets before returning to the ship for lunch.BaselThis afternoon you can choose to stay on board or hop on our shuttle bus to Basel for time to explore independently. With a mix of historic and modern architecture, Basel seamlessly blends tradition and innovation. While you're here, head to the old town to explore its narrow winding streets. At its heart, you'll find the magnificent cathedral with its red sandstone walls, colourful roof tiles, and twin towers. Or you could immerse yourself in the city's remarkable museums and countless galleries, celebrating its rich tradition of art collecting.

Switzerland

Basel

Return home - Flight time permitting, enjoy free time in Basel before your journey home.

Overview

Glide past the pretty towns along the Rhine River, experience the Rhine Gorge, explore Alsace’s Strasbourg, see the Black Forest and the breathtaking Alpine scenery on a mountain rail journey into the Bernese Oberland.

From the legendary Rhine Gorge, where castles rise above steep vineyard terraces, to the timber-framed villages of Alsace and the snow-dusted peaks of Switzerland, this cruise showcases the Rhine at its most enchanting. Wander historic Koblenz and Strasbourg, discover Rüdesheim’s unique character, explore the Black Forest or Alsace Wine Route, and enjoy specially curated experiences that reveal the region’s rich wine heritage, history and culture. Complete your journey with time in beautiful Lucerne and the magnificent mountain scenery of the Bernese Oberland. 

This Swiss river cruise is ideal for travellers looking for a relaxing way to see stunning alpine views and visit historic European towns. 

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Suite

Deluxe Balcony Suite (Diamond Deck)

If you’re looking to really spoil yourself, at a staggering 25 square metres (269 square feet), the world-class Diamond (upper) Deck Deluxe Balcony Suites are for you. Fifty percent larger than standard suites, they allow for an even more generous living area for the ultimate in space and comfort. In addition you will enjoy a private exterior balcony complete with table and chairs - perfect for an ‘al fresco’ breakfast should you wish or just a quiet morning coffee or a pre-dinner ‘sundowner’ whilst watching the world drift by. With the same fittings as standard suites, exquisitely and lavishly appointed to the very highest standard, plus complimentary soft cotton bathrobes and slippers adding the final little touch, this really is the epitome of river cruise luxury!

Features

  • Individual climate control
  • Floor to ceiling windows with outside balcony
  • Twin beds which can be configured as double
  • Nespresso machine and tea making facilities
  • Spacious ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
  • Luxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap
  • Towels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryer
  • UK plug sockets & 2 USB charging points
  • Table and chairs
  • Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV
  • Safe & mini fridge
  • Turn down service
Suite

Superior Suite (Diamond Deck)

Bringing your cruise to another level, why not upgrade to a Superior Suite. Substantially larger at 23 square metres (247 sq. feet) and with the additional space devoted to the living area, you will immediately notice the benefit as you relax in your stylish surroundings. Of course the identical high quality furnishings and fittings as the standard suite are evident throughout, again with stunning views from the panoramic floor to ceiling sliding glass doors.

Features

  • Individual climate control
  • Floor to ceiling windows with French style balcony
  • Twin beds which can be configured as double
  • Nespresso machine and tea making facilities
  • Luxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap
  • Towels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryer
  • UK plug sockets & 2 USB charging points
  • Table and chairs
  • Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV
  • Safe & mini fridge
  • Turn down service
Suite

Stern Superior Suite (Diamond Deck)

Bringing your cruise to another level, why not upgrade to a Superior Suite. Substantially larger at 23 square metres (247 sq. feet) and with the additional space devoted to the living area, you will immediately notice the benefit as you relax in your stylish surroundings. Of course the identical high quality furnishings and fittings as the standard suite are evident throughout, again with stunning views from the panoramic floor to ceiling sliding glass doors.

Features

  • Individual climate control
  • Floor to ceiling windows with French style balcony
  • Twin beds which can be configured as double
  • Nespresso machine and tea making facilities
  • Luxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap
  • Towels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryer
  • UK plug sockets & 2 USB charging points
  • Table and chairs
  • Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV
  • Safe & mini fridge
  • Turn down service
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Suite

Standard Suite (Diamond Deck)

Standard Suites are 17 square metres (183 square feet) and feature full floor-to-ceiling glass doors and a French balcony.

Features

  • Individual climate control
  • Floor to ceiling windows with French style balcony
  • Twin beds which can be configured as double
  • Nespresso machine and tea making facilities
  • Ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
  • Luxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap
  • Towels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryer
  • UK plug sockets & 2 USB charging points
  • Table and chairs
  • Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV
  • Safe & mini fridge
  • Turn down service
Suite

Superior Suite (Ruby Deck)

Bringing your cruise to another level, why not upgrade to a Superior Suite. Substantially larger at 23 square metres (247 sq. feet) and with the additional space devoted to the living area, you will immediately notice the benefit as you relax in your stylish surroundings. Of course the identical high quality furnishings and fittings as the standard suite are evident throughout, again with stunning views from the panoramic floor to ceiling sliding glass doors.

Features

  • Individual climate control
  • Floor to ceiling windows with French style balcony
  • Twin beds which can be configured as double
  • Nespresso machine and tea making facilities
  • Ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
  • Luxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap
  • Towels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryer
  • UK plug sockets & 2 USB charging points
  • Table and chairs
  • Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV
  • Safe & mini fridge
  • Turn down service
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Suite

Standard Suite (Ruby Deck)

Standard Suites are 17 square metres (183 square feet) and feature full floor-to-ceiling glass doors and a French balcony.

Features

  • Individual climate control
  • Floor to ceiling windows with French style balcony
  • Twin beds which can be configured as double
  • Nespresso machine and tea making facilities
  • Ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
  • Shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap
  • Towels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryer
  • UK plug sockets & 2 USB charging points
  • Table and chairs
  • Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV
  • Safe & mini fridge
  • Turn down service

Suite

Standard Suite (Emerald Deck)

Standard cabins on the Emerald Deck are slightly smaller, measuring approximately 16 square metres (172 square feet) and have smaller fixed windows.

Features

  • Individual climate control
  • Fixed window
  • Twin beds which can be configured as double
  • Nespresso machine and tea making facilities
  • Ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
  • Shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap
  • Towels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryer
  • UK plug sockets & 2 USB charging points
  • Table and chairs
  • Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV
  • Safe & mini fridge
  • Turn down service

wine

Main Restaurant

The ship’s main restaurant is located on the Ruby (middle) Deck and here you will experience not only exceptional first class cuisine, but also the most attentive yet discreet service from the ship’s highly professional crew. So just sit back with a well-deserved glass of wine from the carefully selected wine list and delight in the wonderful elegance of your surroundings; beautifully laid tables for just 4 or 6 guests, crisp linen, deep wool carpets and warm wood panelling abound to offer a delectable dining experience of the highest order.

classic

Riverview Kitchen

At the Riverview Kitchen with its large panoramic windows, enjoy a more intimate dining experience whilst taking in the fantastic views. Here in the evenings the chef presents in the open kitchen a selection of locally inspired dishes which you can enjoy with your fellow guests; this intimate dining experience can be reserved on board at no extra charge. When the weather allows the panoramic windows may be fully opened on to the terrace to allow a delightful al fresco dining experience.

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Bar, Lounge

Panorama Lounge and Bar

A lounge in every sense of the word, complete with plenty of comfortable leather armchairs and sumptuous sofas where you can sink into warmly colourful cushions in beautiful quality fabrics with a freshly made cup of tea. A thick wool carpet feels lovely underfoot and the tasteful contemporary lighting above creates a welcoming and refined ambience, further complemented by the discreet and intuitive service resplendent of the finest five-star hotels. So just sit back with your favourite cocktail and take in the truly mesmerising view.

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Lounge, Sun Deck

The Sun Deck

Head on up to this truly spectacular sun deck to watch life ashore slip by from the comfort of a sun lounger, perhaps under shade if the weather gets too hot! There’s always the refreshing splash pool too or why not try your hand on the putting green. Then take a refreshingly long drink and that book you’ve been meaning to read for ages on to the lovely terrace area at the fore of the ship, located right in front of the wheelhouse where you can view the Captain and his team skilfully navigating the twisting river and enjoy truly ‘driving seat’ views. Take a deep breath and relax into the pace of river cruise life – now you’re really on holiday!

Please note: The Sun Deck is only accessible by stairs

Shop

Souvenir Shop

Boutique gift shop for your holiday souvenirs

Spa, Gym, Wellness

Fitness Centre

On the Emerald (lower) Deck is the fitness centre, perfect for working off all those delicious meals.

Wellness, Spa

Wellness

For something less strenuous treat yourself to a relaxing massage.

Whirlpool/Jacuzzi

Splash Pool

Small but refreshing splash pool on the Sun Deck

Golf

Putting Green

Try your hand on the putting green on the Sun Deck

Salon

Hairdressers

So you will always look your best there is a hairdresser’s which offers manicure and pedicure treatments.