- Overview
- Trip Itinerary
- Trip Includes
- Trip Excludes
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- FAQ
Begin your journey with a stay in Paris, the City of Light, before boarding a scenic train to Basel to embark on your Rhine River cruise with Emerald Cruises. Sail through spectacular landscapes and discover storybook towns and cultural treasures along the legendary Rhine. From the flavours of Freiburg and the medieval charm of Strasbourg to Heidelberg's literary heritage and the ancient streets of Koblenz, every stop reveals a new delight. Admire Cologne's iconic Gothic cathedral and soak up the vibrant atmosphere of Dusseldorf on this unforgettable voyage of luxury and discovery.
Highlights:
- Guided tour of Freiburg with tasting
- Guided tour of Strasbourg
- Guided tour of Heidelberg
- Walking tour of Koblenz
- Guided tour of Cologne’s Old Town
- Guided bike tour in Breisach
- Canal cruise in Amsterdam
- Guided bike tour to Waterland
- Active hike from Mount Konigstuhl to Heidelberg
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Itineraries
Day 1
Date : July 29, 2026
Paris Arrival
On arrival, make your way to your hotel and settle in for a memorable 3 night stay in enchanting Paris.
Day 2
Date : July 30, 2026
Paris
Paris at your leisure.
Day 3
Date : July 31, 2026
Paris
Paris at your leisure
Day 4
Date : August 1, 2026
Paris, France - Basel, Switzerland
Travel in comfort with first-class rail from Paris to Basel, then make your way to the pier to board your elegant Emerald river ship. This evening, enjoy a welcome dinner on board with your fellow guests. (D)
Day 5
Date : August 2, 2026
Breisach, Germany
Today, as part of your incredible EmeraldPLUS programme, you will visit the city of Freiburg. Considered the 'Capital of the Black Forest', Freiburg has lovely sights that will amaze you. You'll also have the opportunity to sample authentic Black Forest delicacies. If you're feeling more active, you can choose to join a guided bike tour in Breisach. (B,L,D)
EmeraldPLUS
Guided tour of Freiburg with tasting
EmeraldACTIVE
Guided bike tour in Breisach
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Guided tour of Colmar (extra expense)
Day 6
Date : August 3, 2026
Kehl, Germany - Strasbourg, France
This morning, you'll arrive in Kehl and disembark your Star-Ship, then be transferred by coach to the picturesque town of Strasbourg. Here, an enthralling medieval past is yours to discover, including quaint cobblestone squares framed by well preserved, half-timbered houses. During your included excursion, you'll also have the opportunity to discover the heart of Alsace in Strasbourg and embark on a culinary journey where you'll discover typical flavours of this region. Tonight, as part of your EmeraldPLUS experience, you're invited to join an exclusive private concert in a historical venue. (B,L,D)
Included Excursion
Flavours of Alsace
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Baden Baden Spa experience (extra expense)
EmeraldPLUS
Private Evening Concert on the Rhine
Day 7
Date : August 4, 2026
Germersheim, Germany
Relax on board this morning as you sail towards Germersheim, following the meandering Rhine River and passing the confluence of the Rhine and Neckar. Travel by coach to Heidelberg, where you'll have the opportunity to learn about how it became a UNESCO City of Literature, having inspired the likes of Mark Twain and William Turner with its historical setting.
Your guided tour of the town will allow you to find your own inspiration among its delightful landmarks, including Heidelberg Castle, one of the most impressive Renaissance. (B,L,D)
Included Excursion
Guided tour of Heidelberg
EmeraldACTIVE
Active hike from Mount Konigstuhl to Heidelberg
Day 8
Date : August 5, 2026
Koblenz, Germany
This morning enjoy sailing through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge. Here, romantic castles sit atop tree-covered canyons and half-timbered medieval villages appear suspended in time.
We'll take you into the heart of Koblenz, an ancient city pulled from the pages of a German fairy tale. Enjoy the picturesque backdrop of vineyards and snow capped mountain ranges as your local guide takes you through open cobbled squares and down narrow streets, passing facades adorned with boxes of blooming spring flowers. You'll also have the chance to see the point at which two of Europe's great rivers meet at the German Corner and Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, one of the largest preserved fortresses in Europe. (B,L,D)
Included Excursion
Orientation Walk of Koblenz
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Moselle Valley & Cochem Castle visit (extra expense)
Day 9
Date : August 6, 2026
Cologne - Duesseldorf, Germany
This morning, you will arrive in Cologne and have the chance to know one of Germany's oldest cities and get up close with the famous post card worthy Cathedral. After lunch, join a walking tour of Dusseldorf, a vibrant city renowned for its stylish boutiques and charming Old Town. Stroll along the picturesque Rhine River, admire the stunning architecture and discover hidden gems off-the-beaten path. Immerse yourself in the city's lively atmosphere, indulge in the delicious local cuisine, and marvel at the contrast of Dusseldorf's ancient and modern charms. (B,L,D)
Included Excursion
Guided tour of Cologne Old Town
Included Excursion
Walking tour of Duesseldorf
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Cologne Beer Experience (extra expense)
Day 10
Date : August 7, 2026
Amsterdam, Netherlands
This morning, discover the charm of Alkmaar, a picturesque Dutch town just a short distance from Amsterdam. Explore its historic centre, lined with charming canals and medieval buildings. Alkmaar is famous for its centuries-old cheese market where traditional cheesemakers showcase their craft and engage in lively auctions. Immerse yourself in the local culture in this typical charming town. Alternatively, embark on a bike tour through the Dutch countryside. (B,L,D)
Included Excursion
Excursion to Alkmaar
EmeraldACTIVE
Guided bike tour to Waterland
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Private hidden Gems tour of Amsterdam (extra expense)
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Dutch Delights (extra expense)
Day 11
Date : August 8, 2026
Amsterdam, Netherlands
After breakfast, it's time to say farewell to your Star-Ship and fellow guests and disembark for your transfer to the airport, taking memories of the Black Forest and charming Strasbourg with you. (B)
This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.
Your Fly Stay Rail & River Cruise package includes:
- Return flights from Auckland to Paris, returning from Amsterdam
- 3 nights 4 star accommodation in Paris including breakfast
- First class rail journey from Paris to Basel
- 7 night Jewels of the Rhine River cruise onboard Emerald Dawn, Basel to Amsterdam
Includes:
- 20 delectable meals including 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 7 dinners
- Complimentary wine, beer, and soft drinks served with lunch and dinner on board
- Shore Excursions
- EmeraldPLUS cultural experiences
- EmeraldACTIVE program
- Welcome and Farewell Reception & Dinner
- Services of an Emerald Cruises cruise director
- All tipping and gratuities, port taxes & charges
- Travel Insurance – your North Travel consultant can provide you with a quote. Get a quote now.
- Tourism visa or transit visa if required
- Upgrades to Premium Economy, Business Class and First Class available and to be quote at the time of booking.
- Itinerary deviations e.g. extensions or specific airline requests. This will be quoted by a North Travel consultant at the time of booking.
By making a booking or enquiry with North Travel, you agree to our General Terms and Conditions. Please visit https://northtravel.co.nz/terms-and-conditions/
While it's not strictly mandatory for all bookings, North Travel highly recommends and, in many cases, requires you to have adequate travel insurance for international travel, and strongly advises it for domestic trips. It's a non-negotiable for your peace of mind and protection.
On some itineraries and tours you may be required to have comprehensive travel insurance by the travel supplier. One of our consultants can guide you on this.
North Travel's head office is located at 196 Bank Street, Whangarei, New Zealand.
We are a 100% New Zealand Owned and Operated Travel Agency.
Yes absolutely please give us a call on 0800 803 007.
If calling from outside of New Zealand please call +64 9 699 3074
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In 2025 North Travel was a top 5 finalist at the NTIA Awards (National Travel Industry Awards).
North Travel is a fully bonded member of TAANZ (Travel Agents Association of New Zealand), an IATA Accredited Agency as well as a CLIA (Cruise Lines International Association) member.
North Travel operates strict financial management through client trust accounts and carries comprehensive indemnity and liability insurance at all times.
All members of the North Travel team carry out CPD (Continuing professional development) weekly through various industry training webinars, supplier updates and insurance compliance.
