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Jewels of the Rhine River Cruise with Swiss Alps & Lake Maggiore Escape

From $14,499pp
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Holiday Overview

Departure Date: 29 May 2025 - 21 Nights
Alternative Departure Dates Available
  • Ship Emerald Destiny
  • Duration 21 NIGHTS
  • Departure Date Range May 2025 - Jul 2025
  • Holiday type River Cruising
  • Holiday code EUR2243

Save up to $4,000 per couple* - ends 31.10.2024

INCLUDES RAIL JOURNEY ON BOARD the Bernina Red Train

Hotel stays in Amsterdam, Zürich, Milan & more

Savour Amsterdam’s charm, drift along the Rhine, explore Zürich, marvel at the Alps and unwind on Lake Maggiore’s shores.

Your holiday begins with a hotel stay in vibrant Amsterdam, where you’ll be charmed by its canals, picturesque streets and world-class museums. Next, you’ll embark on a river cruise though the romantic Rhine Valley, where scenic beauty unfolds at every turn.

Immerse yourself in Zürich for four nights, indulging in Swiss chocolate at the Lindt Museum and uncovering the city’s rich history on a guided tour. Your adventure continues with three nights in Milan, where you’ll delight in a breathtaking rail journey through the Alps. Finally, you’ll retreat to serene Lake Maggiore for four nights, exploring the captivating Borromean Islands on a full-day tour and luxuriating in the tranquil splendour of this revered lakeside paradise.

Your Imagine Holiday Includes

Full-Board River Cruise

7 night full-board river cruise on board Emerald Destiny

20 meals including 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches and 7 dinners
The services of an Emerald Cruises Cruise Director
Complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks served with lunch and dinner on board
Welcome and farewell reception & dinner
Overnight in Port in Amsterdam

Hotel Stays

1 night four-star stay in Amsterdam at the Mercure Amsterdam City Hotel

4 night four-star stay in Zürich at the The Home Hotel – Zürich
3 night four-star stay in Milan at the Starhotels Ritz Milan
4 night four-star stay in Lake Maggiore at the Hotel Regina Palace Stresa
All hotel stays include breakfast

Rail Journey

Scenic rail journey through the Swiss Alps on board the Bernina Red Train

Fully Escorted Tours

Lindt Museum visit

Tour of Zürich
Borromean Islands Tour

Excursions

Canal cruise

Guided tour of Cologne’s Old Town
Walking tour of Koblenz
Guided tour of Heidelberg
Guided tour of Strasbourg

EmeraldPLUS

Private Evening Concert on the Rhine

Guided tour of Freiburg with tasting

EmeraldACTIVE

Guided bike tour to Waterland

Active hike from Mount Königstuhl to Heidelberg
Guided bike tour in Breisach

All Flights, Taxes & Transfers

Overnight flights

Extend your Italian Lakes Holiday from $2,499 per person

Includes:

4 night four-star stay in Lake Garda at the Hotel Savoy Palace
1 night four-star stay in Milan at the Starhotels Ritz Milan
Time at leisure in Lake Como
Tickets to A Night of Opera at Arena di Verona Festival

Named hotels are based on availability and are subject to change without notice. Alternative hotels will always be of equal or higher star rating.
Holiday duration includes overnight flights when applicable and is subject to change.
*Prices shown include discount and savings based on two passengers sharing, booking directly with Imagine Holidays.

Your Voyage

Your Itinerary

Day 1
Fly Overnight to Amsterdam

Your holiday begins as you fly from Australia to your destination.

Day 2
Amsterdam: Hotel Stay

Explore charming canals lined with picturesque houses. Visit the Van Gogh Museum and the Rijksmuseum. Stroll through the historic Jordaan and trendy De Pijp neighbourhoods. Experience the lively ambiance of Dam Square.

Overnight: Mercure Amsterdam City Hotel

Days 3 - 4
Amsterdam: Embark Ship & Overnight in Port

Join Emerald Destiny for your Rhine river cruise, part of the Emerald Cruises’ award-winning Star-Ships fleet. Revel in fine dining on board with dishes inspired by the regions you’re sailing through.

Meals Included: Breakfast and Dinner

Overnight: Emerald Destiny

Day 5
Cologne

A captivating blend of ancient charm and modern vibrancy. Immerse yourself in its awe-inspiring Gothic architecture, indulge in its rich cultural heritage, and savor the vibrant energy of its bustling streets.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Overnight: Emerald Destiny

Day 6
Koblenz

Journey to the heart of Germany and discover the captivating beauty of Koblenz. Marvel at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers, explore ancient castles, stroll charming streets, and immerse yourself in rich history.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Overnight: Emerald Destiny

Day 7
Ludwigshafen

Ludwigshafen features modern architecture, green spaces, and a range of cultural and recreational amenities. Despite its industrial roots, the city offers a high quality of life with a focus on sustainability and innovation.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Overnight: Emerald Destiny

Day 7
Heidelberg

Experience the captivating allure of Heidelberg. Walk its ancient streets, marvel at the majestic castle, and immerse in its vibrant culture. Let the romantic atmosphere and breathtaking views ignite your wanderlust and create lifelong memories.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Overnight: Emerald Destiny

Day 8
Kehl

Kehl is a town located in southwest Germany on the River Rhine, across from the French City of Strasbourg. The town is not known as a tourist destination, however it benefits from idyllic landscape and a water-rich environment.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Overnight: Emerald Destiny

Day 8
Strasbourg

Discover the enchantment of Strasbourg, France. With its iconic cathedral, picturesque canals, and Alsatian charm, it’s a city that invites you to stroll through centuries of history and savor the fusion of French and German influences.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Overnight: Emerald Destiny

Day 9
Breisach

Uncover the medieval charm of Breisach, Germany. Immerse in its captivating cathedral, panoramic Rhine Valley views, and rich history. Let Breisach’s timeless beauty and cultural heritage leave an indelible mark on your soul.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Overnight: Emerald Destiny

Day 9
Freiburg

In the heart of the Black Forest, Freiburg im Breisgau enchants with its medieval architecture and heartwarming culture. Stroll through winding alleys lined with colourful homes and admire the soaring Freiburg Minster cathedral.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Overnight: Emerald Destiny

Day 10
Basel: Disembark & Zürich Hotel Stay

Disembarking in Basel, you’ll transfer to Switzerland’s largest city, Zürich, for a four-night hotel stay. Known for its financial prowess and quality of life, soak up its picturesque Old Town, vibrant cultural scene and serene lake Zürich.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight: The Home Hotel - Zürich

Day 11
Zürich: Hotel Stay & Tour

Visit the Lindt Museum to discover the art of Swiss chocolate-making, indulge in tastings, and enjoy interactive exhibits. You’ll then embark on a Zürich sightseeing tour, exploring its historic sites, charming streets and stunning lake views.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight: The Home Hotel - Zürich

Days 12 - 13
Zürich: Hotel Stay

Relish two days at leisure to explore Zürich. Visit the Kunsthaus and Swiss National Museum, stroll around the city’s botanical gardens, head to Bahnhofstrasse for a spot of retail therapy and don’t miss Uetliberg for panoramic city views.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight: The Home Hotel, a Member of Design Hotels™

Days 14 - 15
Milan: Hotel Stay

The spiritual home of Italian fashion, Milan attracts the world’s best-known designers. It also serves up a feast of cultural riches, like the Duomo and 19th-century glass-dome Galleria shopping arcade.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight: Starhotels Ritz Milan

Day 16
Milan: Hotel Stay & Tour

Today you’ll ride the Bernina Red Train through the Swiss Alps between St Moritz in Switzerland and Tirano in Italy. This masterpiece of engineering cuts through dramatic landscapes, majestic glaciers, and charming alpine villages.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight: Starhotels Ritz Milan

Day 17
Lake Maggiore: Hotel Stay

Lake Maggiore sits in the foothills of the Italian and Swiss Alps. During a four-night hotel stay, explore the Borromean Islands with their magnificent palaces and enchanting gardens, or take a leisurely boat ride to discover charming lakeside villages.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight: Hotel Regina Palace Stresa

Day 18
Lake Maggiore: Hotel Stay & Tour

Experience a captivating Borromean Islands tour with boat trips departing to and from Stresa. A dedicated guide will lead you through Isola Bella’s grand palace, Isola Madre’s lush gardens, and Isola dei Pescatori’s charming streets.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight: Hotel Regina Palace Stresa

Days 19 - 20
Lake Maggiore: Hotel Stay

During a day at leisure on the shores of Lake Maggiore, you could hike the scenic trails of the surrounding mountains, discover the beautiful Villa Taranto botanical gardens or embrace the local markets.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Overnight: Hotel Regina Palace Stresa

Days 21 - 22
Lake Maggiore: Fly Home

Your holiday complete, today you’ll head to the airport for your flight home.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Your Tour Highlights

Lake Maggiore
Discover the enchanting beauty of Lake Maggiore, nestled amidst the stunning Alpine landscapes of Italy and Switzerland. Marvel at the pristine blue waters surrounded by lush greenery and charming lakeside towns. Explore elegant villas, ornate gardens, and historical landmarks adorning the shores.
Lindt Museum & Zurich Sightseeing Tour
Visiting the Zurich Lindt Museum is a delightful dive into the world of chocolate. Explore interactive exhibits on the history of Lindt, watch live chocolate-making demonstrations, and indulge in tastings of premium Swiss chocolate. Afterward, embark on a city sightseeing tour to discover Zurich's highlights. Stroll through the charming Old Town, admire the stunning G...
Borromean Islands Tour
Experience a captivating Borromean Islands tour with boat trips departing to and from Stresa. The Borromean Islands comprise Isola Bella, Isola Madre, and Isola dei Pescatori. Isola Bella is renowned for its Baroque palace and meticulously landscaped gardens, Isola Madre features lush botanical gardens and a historic villa and Isola dei Pescatori, the only island with...
Bernina Red Train
This memorable journey takes you past sapphire-hued glaciers and dramatic, jagged mountains, as well as astonishing architectural wonders like the single-track Brusio spiral viaduct with its nine stone arches. Pass through the spectacular Bernina Pass, with views of Lake Bianco and the snow-clad Morteratsch Glacier before reaching the glamorous resort town St. Moritz.

Emerald Destiny

The 35440 GT vessel has several levels and can accommodate 180 guests, providing an experience of first-class comfort and premium service for travellers.

The ship offers spacious staterooms, including luxurious suites – all equipped with modern amenities. Each room has everything you need for a relaxing and restful night’s sleep.

Guests also have access to a 24-hour fitness centre, multiple bars and lounges, spectacular restaurants, a theatre showcasing live performances, a sports facility with recreational games like basketball courts and golf simulators, as well as numerous shops featuring jewellery, souvenirs and speciality items for purchase.

In addition to its impressive array of features on board the Emerald Destiny, there are plenty of activities at many unique ports of call around the world to further enliven your journey. From top attractions in glitzy cities to remote island hideaways perfect for relaxation and exploration – there is something for everyone.

  • Occupancy 180
  • Tonnage 3,544 tons
  • Length 443 ft (135.00 m)

Life on Board Emerald Destiny

The Emerald Destiny provides an entertaining experience without even stepping ashore. You can explore a world of culinary delights, engage in a variety of activities, or just relax and savour your favourite beverage while admiring the passing landscapes.

dining

With Emerald cruises, cuisine is a celebrated highlight of your holiday – from global cuisine to small treats and beverages, there’s something to please any palate.

  • Reflections Restaurant
  • The Terrace
  • Horizon Bar and Lounge
  • Sky Barbecue

Facilities

Those aboard the Emerald Destiny can take advantage of a multitude of amenities including swimming pools, sports, spa treatments, and pampering sessions.

  • Sun deck
  • Golf putting green
  • Games area
  • Walking track
  • Navigation bridge
  • Daytime pool & bar
  • Lift
  • Reception
  • Wellness area
  • Fitness area
  • Sky barbecue
  • Hair salon

entertainment

During your journey, you can enjoy a range of night-time entertainment such as live music or cinema screenings – or simply relax with your favourite beverage and watch the sunset with your favourite drink at hand.

  • Cinema
  • Nightly music
  • Cooking demonstrations
  • Enrichment lectures

For prices please select your departure airport

Cabins and Suites

On board Emerald Cruises, you’ll have all the features you need for a peaceful and enjoyable stay. With five-star amenities and different options available to suit your needs, you’ll enjoy a restful and peacful sleep after an exciting day at sea.

Emerald Stateroom Prices from $14,499pp

Emerald Riverview staterooms feature picture windows and the same high quality facilities as all other cabins. Plus, they’re bigger than other standard staterooms, providing excellent value for money. These staterooms include a queen-size bed, bathroom with shower, flat-screen TV, mini-bar, and safe.

  • Queen or Twin beds
  • En suite bathroom with shower
  • Luxury products
  • Walk in closet
  • Personal safe
  • Direct dial phone
  • Flat HD TV
  • Mini bar
  • Climate control
  • Umbrella
  • Shoe Cleaner
  • Ear plugs
Cruise Code: EUR2243
To Book Call
Alternative Departure Dates
03 July 2025
03 Jul 2025
21 nights
Itinerary Includes: Fly Overnight to Amsterdam , Amsterdam: Hotel Stay, Amsterdam: Embark Ship & Overnight in Port,...
Fr From $15,499pp

Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite Prices from $15,799pp

Staterooms aboard the Emerald Destiny provide comfort and style, with amenities ranging from luxurious toiletries and HD TV to a fully stocked mini-bar.

  • Queen or Twin beds
  • En suite bathroom with shower
  • Luxury products
  • Walk in closet
  • Personal safe
  • Direct dial phone
  • Flat HD TV
  • Mini bar
  • Climate control
  • Umbrella
  • Shoe Cleaner
  • Ear plugs
Cruise Code: EUR2243
To Book Call
Alternative Departure Dates
03 July 2025
03 Jul 2025
21 nights
Itinerary Includes: Fly Overnight to Amsterdam , Amsterdam: Hotel Stay, Amsterdam: Embark Ship & Overnight in Port,...
Fr From $16,499pp

Emerald Grand Balcony Suite Prices from $16,499pp

Emerald Destiny Balcony Stateroom

The luxurious balcony suites feature an indoor veranda, floor-to-ceiling doors for ushering in the ocean breeze, and plentiful amenities for guests to enjoy.

  • Queen or Twin beds
  • En suite bathroom with shower
  • Luxury products
  • Walk in closet
  • Personal safe
  • Direct dial phone
  • Flat HD TV
  • Mini bar
  • Climate control
  • Umbrella
  • Shoe Cleaner
  • Ear plugs
  • Floor-to-ceiling sliding doors
  • Indoor veranda
Cruise Code: EUR2243
To Book Call
Alternative Departure Dates
03 July 2025
03 Jul 2025
21 nights
Itinerary Includes: Fly Overnight to Amsterdam , Amsterdam: Hotel Stay, Amsterdam: Embark Ship & Overnight in Port,...
Fr From $17,499pp

Emerald Owners Suite Prices from $17,499pp

Emerald Destiny Suite Stateroom

Treat yourself to the ultimate experience by booking the Owner’s Suite: with more room, a private balcony and all the luxurious amenities befitting royalty.

  • Queen or Twin beds
  • En suite bathroom with shower & 2 x sinks
  • Luxury products
  • Nespresso coffee maker
  • iPad
  • In-room dining
  • Complimentary laundry
  • Walk in closet
  • Personal safe
  • Direct dial phone
  • Flat HD TV
  • Complimentary mini-bar
  • Climate control
  • Umbrella
  • Shoe Cleaner
  • Ear plugs
  • Lounge/living area
  • Sit out balcony with chairs and tables
Cruise Code: EUR2243
To Book Call
Alternative Departure Dates
03 July 2025
03 Jul 2025
21 nights
Itinerary Includes: Fly Overnight to Amsterdam , Amsterdam: Hotel Stay, Amsterdam: Embark Ship & Overnight in Port,...
Sold Out

Your Hotel Stays

Amsterdam

Included Hotel

Mercure Amsterdam City Hotel (Or Similar)

Mercure Amsterdam City is a modern and stylish hotel situated in the vibrant heart of Amsterdam. With contemporary design and comfortable amenities, it offers a convenient base for both leisure and business travellers. Located close to major attractions, shopping districts, and public transport links, Mercure Amsterdam City provides a perfect blend of accessibility and relaxation for guests exploring the dynamic cityscape of Amsterdam.

Zürich

Included Hotel

The Home Hotel – Zürich (Or Similar)

The Home Hotel, a Member of Design Hotels™,is a stylish and contemporary boutique hotel located in Zürich, Switzerland. It offers a unique blend of modern design and cozy comfort, creating a homely atmosphere for its guests. The hotel features elegantly designed rooms with chic furnishings and state-of-the-art amenities, catering to both leisure and business travelers. With a focus on personalized service and attention to detail, The Home Hotel Zürich provides a distinctive and memorable stay experience, set within the vibrant and picturesque surroundings of Zürich.

Milan

Included Hotel

Starhotels Ritz Milan (Or Similar)

This chic, central Milan hotel lies near the shopping districts of Porta Venezia and Corso Buenos Aires. Home to a delightful restaurant, fitness centre, sauna, Turkish bath, plus the delicious Bruschetteria Grill & BBQ by Eataly and contemporary, design-led rooms, Starhotels Ritz is the perfect base from which to explore the vibrant city of Milan.

Lake Maggiore

Included Hotel

Hotel Regina Palace Stresa (Or Similar)

Dating back to 1908, this four-star hotel in tranquil parkland overlooks Lake Maggiore and the Borromeo Islands. Its opulent interiors feature magnificent guest rooms and suites with lavish period-style decor, including Damask prints, high ceilings, chandeliers, and rich gold, blue, and Venetian red hues. Steps from the lakeside promenade and 300 meters from Stresa’s center, it’s an ideal base for exploring Lake Maggiore’s charms, like the Borromean Islands. The hotel offers two heated pools (indoor and outdoor), tennis, massages, a sun terrace with views, and live music and dancing at the 1900 bar.

Saver Fares

Enjoy the same exceptional value with our holiday packages featuring hotel stays, memorable tours, and iconic rail journeys around the world, all without transfers* included – travel your way with Imagine Holidays.

*Available at an additional cost, call one of our Holiday Experts for more details.

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