1-800-342-0019 Speak to a River Cruise Expert
Hero Image

The Rhine and Moselle - Northbound 2024

From Basel, Switzerland to Amsterdam, Netherlands
Length: 15 Days - Departs: Sun, May 05, 2024
Operator
Ship
Departure
May 05, 2024
Arrival
May 19, 2024

Please see below brochure cabin pricing

To receive our best value and service, please call us or Click Here For a Free Quote

Special Offers

CALL FOR BEST VALUE!
We have the best value and service on Tauck River Cruises

Tauck's Solo Traveler: No Single Supplement on all European River Cruise

Mention Promo Code: PT1572
Promotion Image

Tauck's Solo Traveler: No Single Supplement on all European River Cruise

Tauck's Solo Traveler: No Single Supplement on all European River Cruise

Promotion Details
Tauck is now offering solo travelers in Category 1 cabins - no single supplement on all European river cruises. Solo travelers also enjoy savings of $1000 per cabin in select categories on select river cruises. (Certain restrictions apply; ask at time of booking).
Must Book By Tue, Dec 31, 2024
View Promotion Terms & Conditions ›

Contact one of our Tour Specialists for more information. Offer valid on new bookings only. Savings vary per cabin category on select river cruises. Cannot be combined with any other offer, promotion or discount. Capacity controlled and may be removed at any time without notice. Certain restrictions may apply; ask at time of booking.


River Cruise Itinerary

So many delights are in store along the enchanting Moselle and Rhine on our 14-night cruise between Basel and Amsterdam...From the Netherlands to Switzerland, through Germany, France and Luxembourg, see the marriage of French and German culture in Strasbourg; mingle with jet setters in Baden-Baden; check out the ancient university town of Heidelberg and medieval masterpieces like Bernkastel, Trier and Cochem. Pay tribute to those who fell in the Battle of the Bulge at the Luxembourg American Cemetery and Memorial; get a true taste of Europe with regional specialties, local wines and folk traditions; and enjoy an exclusive special dinner at a castle in Germany.

  1. Day 1
    Basel, Switzerland
    Sun, May 05, 2024

    Tour begins: 4:00 PM, Basel, Switzerland. Transfers are included from EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg or Basel's SBB train station to the riverboat where embarkation begins at 4:00 PM; guests can also transfer from Zürich Airport or Zurich Hauptbahnhof (train station) to the riverboat in Basel. Join us this evening for a welcome reception followed by dinner onboard the riverboat.


    Meals: Dinner
  2. Day 2
    Basel, Switzerland
    Mon, May 06, 2024

    The Tauck Difference in European river cruising is all about where you go, what you do, and who you meet on your shore excursions – and today, you have a choice! First choice is spending the day in Basel, a beautiful city on the banks of the Rhine River. You'll get a good overview on a brief sightseeing tour that is followed by a walking tour in the Old Town – see the bright-red Rathaus, Basel's Town Hall. After lunch, explore more of one of Europe's most attractive and best-preserved Old Towns on your own, perhaps taking in one of the city's 40 museums. Your second choice is a trip to the town of Zürich for a guided tour and lunch. This evening enjoy a welcome briefing followed by dinner in the Compass Rose as your riverboat heads for Strasbourg, France.


    Meals: Breakfast
  3. Day 3
    Strasbourg, France
    Tue, May 07, 2024

    Today, you'll have a choice as to how you'll explore Strasbourg, France, the formal seat of the European Parliament and a cultural treasure. Step back in time and explore La Petite France, noted for its medieval half-timbered houses set beside lovely canals, on a walking tour with a local guide. Visit the Gothic Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Strasbourg, where the graceful, expressive statuary of the Pilier des Anges (Pillar of Angels), and the magnificent stained glass windows are inspiring. Or, you can choose to go on a shopping excursion with a local guide who will introduce you to unique places, off the beaten path, where locals shop and chat. Return to the riverboat for lunch or stay in Strasbourg; spend the afternoon exploring the city as you please before returning to the riverboat for a late evening departure for Baden-Baden.


    Meals: Breakfast
  4. Day 4
    Baden-Baden, Germany
    Wed, May 08, 2024

    Stuttgart enjoys a reputation as an industrial powerhouse; a cradle of both the automobile and motorcycle industries in the 19th century, it's the corporate headquarters of both Porsche and Mercedes-Benz. But the city also possesses a charming, small-town atmosphere, tucked into an inviting urban landscape of historic sites, lakes, parks, gardens, vineyards and forests. Your excursion features a walking tour of the city's historic center, where you'll see the restored Altes Schloss (Old Castle), most of which dates to the 15th century, and its inner courtyard; the palatial 18th-century Neues Schloss (New Castle), completely rebuilt after nearly being burned to the ground during WWII. Later, you'll explore the Mercedes-Benz Museum – a dazzling ultramodern showcase featuring more than 160 vehicles on display, ranging from some of the oldest automobiles ever built to legendary racing cars to futuristic research vehicles in exhibits that chronicle the history of the legendary car company. Following your time at the museum, you may join us for an optional walking tour of Stuttgart. As an alternate option, travel by coach to the beautiful spa town of Baden-Baden where you'll discover that the elegant Belle Èpoque period is still alive and well. For many generations, wealthy folks have flocked here to see and be seen, and to take the healing thermal waters for which the town is famous. Join us on a walking tour and time spent on your own discovering some of the town's treasures ranging from the ruins of Roman baths to the ornate, 250-year-old Belle Èpoque casino, the Kurhaus, which movie star Marlene Dietrich once described as "the most beautiful casino in the world." You'll also have an optional opportunity to visit the Caracalla Spa in town before returning to the riverboat for the evening.


    Meals: Breakfast
  5. Day 5
    Heidelberg, Germany
    Thu, May 09, 2024

    Arrive in the historic college town of Heidelberg, home to one of the oldest universities in Europe as well as being the setting for the famous operetta, The Student Prince. You have a choice of sightseeing today. In Heidelberg, take a walking tour for a close-up look at the Old Town, and visit the imposing Heidelberger Schloss, perched 300 feet above the city; view its examples of medieval, Renaissance and Baroque architecture; have lunch at a local restaurant. Alternatively, travel to one of the local wineries for a visit and tasting of the excellent red and white wines found throughout this region. On your tour, you'll see the vines, most of which are planted to produce Riesling, on very steep terraced slopes. Watch the winery's traditional methods used to create hand-made, organic wines that are aged in old oak barrels without commercial yeast strains or other modern gimmicks. And you'll enjoy local snacks and a tasting of the winery's "pure, disarmingly acidic and exceptionally stylish" white wines. Return to the ship midday, and enjoy an afternoon cruising.

     
    Meals: Breakfast
  6. Day 6
    Boppard, Germany
    Fri, May 10, 2024

    While your riverboat glides through the Middle Rhine Valley en route to Boppard, listen to the legend of the Lorelei and seefor yourself why this beautiful part of the river – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – has inspiredcomposers, writers and artists for centuries. Alternatively, you can take a bicycling excursion from Bacharach to Boppard, peddling along riverside bike paths that traverse countryside, forests and winelands. Gain insights on the Lorelei Valley and legends associated with the many castles you'll pass on your way through the region from your Tauck Director.  The ship – and bicycles – arrive in Boppard this morning, where you'll have an orientation tour by your Tauck Director. Return to the ship for dinner and continue on to Koblenz, where the riverboat will be docked overnight.


    Meals: Breakfast
  7. Day 7
    Cochem, Germany
    Sat, May 11, 2024

    Your day begins with an introduction to the Moselle River, where your riverboat diverges from the Rhine, en route to Cochem. Stepping ashore in this Moselle Valley town is like stepping into the pages of a medieval fairy tale; tour picture-perfect 1,000-year-old Reichsburg Castle, which looks down on Cochem's quaint market square. Enjoy a relaxing morning aboard the riverboat before your exploration of this jewel of a town – complete with a Baroque town hall and ancient town gates – breathing in its historic charm and ambiance. Explore Cochem either by bike ride or on a guided walking tour ending at the family-owned Schlagkamp Wine Museum, where you'll learn about the area's centuries-old winemaking traditions with a tasting of the excellent locally produced vintages before returning to the riverboat. 



    Meals: Breakfast
  8. Day 8
    Luxembourg City, Luxembourg
    Sun, May 12, 2024

    Dock this morning in Traben-Trarbach and set off for a choice of excursions. On one, you're off on a journey to the tiny Grand Duchyof Luxembourg with a visit to the Luxembourg American Cemetery and Memorial; where over 5,000 American casualties of World War II's Battle of the Bulge lie buried here, as does General George S. Patton; Or take a walking tour of Luxembourg's well-preserved old town including theCathedral, Parliament, the Palace of the Grand Duke, and centuries-oldbattlements that are today a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Alternatively, journey to the charming spa town of Traben-Trarbach, where you have the choice of an orientation tour – or a guided bicycle ride along the Moselle River. Dinner tonight is back aboard your ship followed by a performance by the Sandy Quartette.


    Meals: Breakfast
  9. Day 9
    Trier, Germany
    Mon, May 13, 2024

    On an excursion to Trier, enjoy a guided walking tour where you'll discover an ancient city that lays claim as being one of the oldest in Germany – during a walking tour that includes both medieval treasures and sites dating back to Roman times, from a 2nd-century city gate and the 4th-century basilica to a 16th-century fountain featuring images of St. Peter. Reboard your riverboat for an afternoon of classic river cruising, watching the scenery slip by from the Sun Deck as your riverboat glides along the Moselle; enjoy dinner aboard ship tonight.


    Meals: Breakfast
  10. Day 10
    Alken Germany
    Tue, May 14, 2024

    A wonderful morning of cruising along the Moselle awaits today! Following lunch onboard, your ship arrives in the town of Alken, home to the ruins of Thurant Castle, perched high above the hills by Alken; enjoy some free time to explore as you please before rejoining your riverboat.


    Meals: Breakfast
  11. Day 11
    Cologne Germany
    Wed, May 15, 2024

    This morning, in the city of Köln (Cologne), you're off on a walking tour showcasing the city's iconic sites accompanied by a local guide and highlighted with a stop at the Cologne Cathedral, the largest gothic cathedral in Northern Europe. The afternoon is free to explore pursue your own special interests. This evening, you're off for a Tauck Exclusive visit to Schloss Ehreshoven. Built in the 14th Century and later expanded in the style of a grand Baroque manor house, the estate is surrounded by a moat, landscaped gardens, and a castle park. Schloss Ehreshoven is frequently used as a film location but this evening it's the elegant setting for a cocktail reception and dinner with entertainment. Return to the ship late tonight to continue your cruise.


    Meals: Breakfast
  12. Day 12
    Arnhem Netherlands
    Thu, May 16, 2024

    Arrive in Nijmegen, where your day begins with a choice of excursion – a visit to Paleis Het Loo and gardens, the largest authentic 17th-century palace of the House of Orange-Nassau and a masterpiece of Dutch Baroque architecture or alternatively, a visit to the art-filled Kröller-Müller Museum in De Hoge Veluwe National Park. This afternoon's choices include an introductory walk through Nijmegen or a visit to  the Airborne Museum at the beautifully restored Villa Hartenstein, rich with World War II history. Everyone rejoins the riverboat late afternoon; tonight, enjoy a special Chef's Signature Dinner in the Compass Rose and set sail late in the evening for Amsterdam.


    Meals: Breakfast
  13. Day 13
    Amsterdam, Netherlands
    Fri, May 17, 2024

    Explore Amsterdam today, beginning with a visit to the famed Rijksmuseum, home to one of the world's most important collections of artwork by the Dutch Masters. Mid-morning, take a scenic canal cruise along the 17th-century canals, where you'll be introduced to the city's remarkable architecture from a different vantage point. The remainder of the day is free to enjoy Amsterdam as you please.


    Meals: Breakfast
  14. Day 14
    Amsterdam, Netherlands
    Sat, May 18, 2024

    Today takes you outside of the city for a full day, guided tour through the polder landscapes of the Dutch countryside, including a visit to a tulip and vegetable nursery. Alternatively, you may choose to stay in Amsterdam to explore the city as you wish. Return to your riverboat this evening and join us for a farewell toast as your cruise comes to a close.


    Meals: Breakfast
  15. Day 15
    Amsterdam, Netherlands
    Sun, May 19, 2024

    Tour ends: Amsterdam. A transfer is included from the riverboat to Amsterdam's Schiphol International Airport or Centraal Train Station upon disembarking, no later than 9:00 AM; allow a minimum of 3 hours for flight check-in at the airport. We wish you a safe and pleasant journey home.


    Meals: Breakfast

Rivers Visited

Moselle, Rhine

OR Call Us For a Free Quote 1-800-342-0019

Inclusions

So many delights are in store along the enchanting Moselle and Rhine on our 14-night cruise between Basel and Amsterdam...From the Netherlands to Switzerland, through Germany, France and Luxembourg, see the marriage of French and German culture in Strasbourg; mingle with jet setters in Baden-Baden; check out the ancient university town of Heidelberg and medieval masterpieces like Bernkastel, Trier and Cochem. Pay tribute to those who fell in the Battle of the Bulge at the Luxembourg American Cemetery and Memorial; get a true taste of Europe with regional specialties, local wines and folk traditions; and enjoy an exclusive special dinner at a castle in Germany.

  • TAUCK EXCLUSIVE - Dinner at the historic Schloss Ehreshoven in Germany
  • Gratuities to ship staff, drivers, local guides, Tauck Directors and Tauck Cruise Director
  • Tauck's private shore excursions and distinctive inclusions valued at $3,403
  • Insider tour of the Gothic-Renaissance Heidelberger Schloss and lunch at a popular local restaurant
  • Choices of bicycle excursions in Boppard and Arnhem's De Hoge Veluwe National Park
  • Wine tasting at a family-owned winery in Cochem
  • A scenic cruise along the canals of Amsterdam

OR Call Us For a Free Quote 1-800-342-0019

Ship Information

Loading...

Cabins

Loading...

Life on Board

Loading...

Questions & Answers

Question: Will the day-by-day itinerary change?

Yes, the river cruise itineraries may change due to reasons such as inclement weather or unforeseen events. Your safety is the number one concern aboard and all precautions necessary will be taken in order to ensure passenger safety, including changing itineraries. Please note that when itineraries do change, the ship staff will do their best to substitute any missed port with an alternative destination.

Question: In what language is the river cruise conducted?

The river cruise will be conducted in English only.

Customer Reviews

Overall Rating
4.3
Accommodations
4.2
Itinerary
3.8
Professional Staff
4.6
Repeat with Operator
4.6
Value for Money
4.2

Ratings based off 5 reviews - currently showing 2 reviews with comments only

This trip was wonderful. Tauck experience is over the top and enjoyed every minute.

Tauck is everything they promise and more. The room was wonderful, the food was outstanding, the guides were knowledgeable and fun to be with.

You May Also Like

  • Ship Image
    Cruise Line
    Tauck
    Ship
    MS Esprit
    Starts
    Basel
    Ends
    Amsterdam
    Days
    15
    From
    $8,990
  • Ship Image
    Cruise Line
    Tauck
    Ship
    MS Inspire
    Starts
    Basel
    Ends
    Amsterdam
    Days
    15
    From
    $8,990

AffordableTours.com is a travel agent for Tauck. Brochure Price is based on the itinerary's highest brochure price. Our price reflects our base price for the same departure as Brochure Price. All prices, itineraries, accommodations and dates are subject to change without notice and at any time. All prices are USD per person and based on double occupancy. Availability is limited and must be reconfirmed at time of booking. All prices change frequently and our website prices are not guaranteed until a deposit has been received by us. The prices on our website are intended to serve as a guide only and may not accurately reflect current prices. We are not responsible for errors, omissions, or changes in these prices until a booking has been confirmed by one of our agents. Please call us toll free at 1-800-342-0019 to confirm current prices and availability. Prices listed are per person, cruise only, and based on double occupancy.

Call Us Now 1-800-342-0019

How It Works

Vacationing has never been easier or cheaper with the help of a dedicated travel consultant from AffordableTours.com

Freq Quote 1. Free Quote

Find your perfect trip on our website and simply request a free quote. Need to speak to a live person? Call us 7 days a week at 1-800-342-0019. No robots here!

Dedicated Travel Consultant 2. Dedicated Travel Consultant

Your personal travel consultant will reach out and be your point of contact for your entire travel experience from start to finish. Did we mention you'll be working with an award winning team? Sweet!

Low Price Guaranteed 3. Lowest Price Guaranteed

Because we're one of the largest sellers of travel, we're able to give you a discount on your vacation package. No one beats our prices!

Stress Free Travel 4. Stress Free Travel

Knowing you got the best deal, all that's left is for you to pack your bags and enjoy your vacation!


AffordableTours.com BBB Business Review

Better Business Bureau

AffordableTours.com is a proud recipient of the Better Business Bureau (BBB) awards 2006-2022 with A+ Rating.

It Pays To Refer! Earn Up To $200!

It's simple: Sign up your friends, family, and anyone to us and when they book you will receive an American Express gift card worth up to $200 in the mail for simply referring.

Read More

Get discounts by Email!