Exclusive Europe River Cruise & Luxury Trip through Switzerland

Embark on a journey through the princedom with a Viking Rhine river cruise, followed by an exploration of Switzerland. Your adventure commences, in Amsterdam, where you’ll encounter canals and charming gabled houses along the way.

Enjoy the view of windmills in Kinderdijk and then move to Cologne to spend time admiring gothic cathedral.

Take a tour along the Middle Rhine and take a look at a fairy tale castle and beautiful vineyards. Visit Koblenz and the picturesque village of Rüdesheim which is well known for its wine culture.

Step back in time when in Speyer. Discover the Heidelberg town. Carry on to Strasburg, which is a city that has both France and Germany feels then go off to the Black Forest of Germany, in Breisach.

After disembarking in Basel, your luxury tour of Switzerland begins with your private tour guide Brigitte Heller.

Marvel at the impressive Rhine Falls in Schaffhausen and enjoy the spectacular ride on the Glacier Express from Chur to Zermatt. Spend two nights in Zermatt and admire the majestic Matterhorn.

Explore the historic Château Chillon on Lake Geneva and the picturesque vineyard terraces of Lavaux before experiencing the luxurious charm of Gstaad. In Interlaken, the Jungfraujoch awaits you with breathtaking views of the Alps.

Your journey ends in the romantic city of Lucerne, where you cross the famous Chapel Bridge and enjoy the magnificent view of Lake Lucerne.

Before your departure, you have the opportunity to explore Zurich and experience the Swiss art of chocolate-making at the Lindt Home of Chocolate.

• Book your Viking Rhine River Cruise Europe here: https://www.vikingrivercruises.com/cruise-destinations/europe/rhine-getaway/2025-amsterdam-basel/index.html
• Book your Luxury Travel Switzerland tour with private guide Brigitte Heller here: 7-day luxury trip through Switzerland

Diary: Viking Rhine River Cruise Europe – Extension Tour Switzerland

Day 1 — Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Board your ship and settle into your stateroom. Amsterdam, the Dutch capital, is a city of charming canals, elegant gabled houses, splendid museums, and abundant bicycles. Connected by 1’500 bridges, its patchwork of waterways forms about 90 islands. The legacy of the Dutch Golden Age persists in gilded mansions and lush paintings by Rembrandt and other Dutch masters at the Rijksmuseum – a grand repository of art and cultural history in the Netherlands. Amsterdam is best explored on foot or bicycle or canal boat.

Day 2 — Kinderdijk, The Netherlands

Kinderdijk, situated in the Alblasserwaard province, is a village community shaped by Rhine Delta waters in the scenic Merwede and Waal regions of South Holland. Best known for its 19 remarkably preserved 18th-century windmills. This charming hamlet is set amid low-lying polders, reclaimed land enclosed by embankments or dikes, showcasing the power of windmills.

Day 3 — Cologne, Germany

Cologne’s Roman heritage is evident in its city layout and scattered ancient ruins. The 14th-century cathedral is a beautiful example of Gothic artistry and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, surviving Allied bombs during World War II. Its imposing twin spires are visible for far away, and stained glass windows fill the interior with brilliant colored light, leading to a platform with astounding views. Modern plazas and streets welcome visitors with restaurants, shops and cologne boutiques. The perfume 4711 from Cologne is world famous.

Day 4 — Koblenz, Germany and Scenic Sailing Middle Rhine and Rüdesheim, Germany

Founded over 2’000 years ago, Koblenz is a traditional German city resting on a massif of the Middle Rhine Highlands. Cobblestone streets, flower-adorned wood-beamed houses, and medieval churches evoke a fairy-tale Germany. The massive equestrian statue of Emperor William was built between 1895 and 1897 and overlooks the «German Corner» at the river Rhine and Mosel. The 16th-century Ehrenbreitstein Fortress on the rock above the town can be reached by cable car across the Rhine. Koblenz’s oldest building is the Romanesque Basilica of St. Castor, dating back to 836.

Scenic Middle Rhine Sailing: The Rhine River flows through Germany’s most scenic regions. Sailing through the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Middle Rhine, you’ll pass vineyard-blanketed hills where vintners pick grapes by hand, keeping a centuries-old tradition alive. Splendid castles (Burg Maus and Katz, Castle Gutenfels and Schönburg and more) line the banks, each with its own story. The Lorelei Rock presides at a dramatic curve in the river, where the infamous river maiden mesmerized sailors with her song.

Rüdesheim, in Germany’s Rheingau region, is known for winemaking. The famed Drosselgasse, lined with taverns pouring local vintages and spilling music into alleyways, attracts locals and visitors. Half-timbered houses and old inns add a medieval flavor. Castles, including the 9th-century Brömserburg Castle, once provided security for the region. The Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet museum houses an impressive collection of self-playing instruments.

Day 5 — Speyer, Germany

Speyer, situated on the west bank of the Rhine, features a Romanesque imperial cathedral, burial place of eight emperors. Once a major Celtic center, Speyer traded goods between the Romans and the Huns. The term Protestant originated at the Diet of Speyer in 1529, when cities and princes protested the Edict of Worms banning Martin Luther’s writings. Visit panoramic romantic Heidelberg with the majestic Renaissance Castle, built in 13th century. The Palatinate monarchy lived on Castle Heidelberg through the 18th century.

Day 6 — Strasbourg, France

Strasbourg, the largest port on the Upper Rhine, is the cultural center of France’s Alsace region. Its location at the France-Germany border results in a mix of cultural influences. The nice Old Town, enclosed by the little Ill River, is easily explored on foot or river boat, featuring cobblestone streets lined with wooden houses and picturesque canals. Indulging in Alsatian café culture amid lovely half-timbered houses is a highlight.

Day 7 — Breisach, Germany

Breisach, built on a basalt rock outcropping in the Rhine plain, is a gateway to the Black Forest region. Located across the river from French Alsace, it boasts Europe’s largest cellars, with a storage capacity of over 160 million liters. The prominent landmark, the Romanesque-Gothic St. Stephen’s Cathedral with two towers, was built in the 12th and 13th centuries.

Day 8 — Basel, Switzerland / End of the river cruise

Basel in Switzerland meets Germany and France at the Rhine river and reflects a blend of traditions. The old-town buildings cluster along the riverbank, with guild houses around Market Square recalling Gothic, Renaissance, and baroque splendor. The red-sandstone Rathaus, or Town Hall, is the centerpiece. Over 40 museums add modern polish to its history-rich streets. After breakfast, disembark your ship and begin your luxury private tour through Switzerland. Brigitte Heller, your private tour guide and general manager of Luxury Travel Switzerland, will personally welcome you warmly at the river cruise ship.

Your Luxury Tour Switzerland with private guide Brigitte Heller starts:

Day 8: Basel, Eastern Switzerland and Rhine Falls Schaffhausen

A short walk through the old town of Basel takes you to the market square and the Red Town Hall. Private trip to the Rhine Falls in Schaffhausen. Marvel at Europe’s largest waterfall on a boat trip directly to the waterfall and climb the rock in the middle of the waterfall. Then marvel at the waterfall from the other side at Laufen Castle. Private transfer to the hotel at Lake Zürich or in the region of Eastern Switzerland for an overnight stay.

Day 9: Chur – Zermatt Matterhorn

From your hotel you will be chauffeured to Chur train station, where your adventure awaits you on board the legendary luxury Glacier Express train. Traverse a stunning route from Chur to Andermatt, Brig and finally Zermatt, enjoying unparalleled views of the Alpine landscape along the way. Stay two nights in Zermatt, a charming alpine village below the imposing Matterhorn. Immerse yourself in the atmosphere of this iconic destination known for its outdoor activities, amazing streets and world-class hospitality.

Day 10: Zermatt – Matterhorn

Embark on a thrilling mountain railway journey from Zermatt to the Matterhorn Glacier Paradise, offering breathtaking views of the iconic peak and surrounding alpine scenery. Alternatively, ascend to the summit of Gornergrat or Rothorn with Sunnegga for equally stunning vistas of the Matterhorn and its majestic surroundings. After a day of exploration, relish in a second night in Zermatt, where you can unwind amidst the charming alpine ambiance, savoring the tranquility and beauty of this mountain paradise.

Day 11: Lake Geneva – Interlaken

Private transfer to the lake of Geneva. Explore the rich history of Switzerland with a visit to the picturesque Château Chillon, a medieval fortress nestled on the shores of Lake Geneva. Alternatively, immerse yourself in the UNESCO-designated cultural marvel of the Lavaux vineyard terraces, where meticulously cultivated vines cascade down the slopes overlooking the lake. Journey in luxury private transfer through the renowned resort town of Gstaad, well known for its opulent charm and world-class amenities. 2 overnight stays in Interlaken or the surrounding area. Interlaken and surrounding is a stunning beauty of the Bernese Oberland region, with its towering peaks, pristine lakes, and endless outdoor adventures.

Day 12: Interlaken – Bernese Oberland

Start on a scenic mountain railway journey to the Jungfraujoch “Top of Europe”. You will marvel at the wonderful views from the highest railway station in Europe at 3’464 meters over sea level. Alternatively, ascend to the panoramic summit of Schilthorn. It is famous for its role in a James Bond film (On Her Majesty’s Secret Service) and offering unparalleled vistas of the surrounding peaks. After a day of exploration and adventure, enjoy a second night in Interlaken or its surrounding area.

Day 13: Lucerne – Lake Lucerne

Private transfer from Interlaken, traversing the amazing Brünig Pass en route to Lucerne. Delve into a full-day adventure exploring the majestic peaks surrounding Lucerne. Opt for a boat excursion coupled with a mountain railway journey to the RIGI, dubbed the “Queen of the Mountains,” or ascend to Lucerne’s local gem, Mount Pilatus. Indulge in panoramic vistas, alpine serenity, and thrilling experiences atop these iconic peaks. Conclude your day with a private tour in the old city of Lucerne on the shore of Lake Lucerne and walk over the world famous wodden bridge “Kapellbrücke”. Last overnight stay in romantic city of Lucerne.

Day 14: Lucerne – Zurich Airport

Conclude your Swiss adventure with the private airport transfer. Depending on your flight departure time, seize the opportunity to explore the vibrant city of Zurich or indulge in a visit to the renowned Lindt Home of Chocolate. Wander through Zurich’s historic streets, admiring its blend of modernity and tradition. Or visit the world of Swiss chocolate at the Lindt Home of Chocolate. Immerse yourself in the art of chocolate-making and taste different Swiss chocolate. And finally carry with you cherished memories for a lifetime of your journey through the enchanting Switzerland…

• Book your Viking Rhine River Cruise Europe here: https://www.vikingrivercruises.com/cruise-destinations/europe/rhine-getaway/2025-amsterdam-basel/index.html
• Book your Luxury Travel Switzerland tour with private guide Brigitte Heller here: 7-day luxury trip through Switzerland

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