Boarding at 2:00 p.m. at the river station. Optional excursion: panoramic tour of Strasbourg and visit of its cathedral(2). Departure for a guided tour of the European capital. We will begin with a city tour through several districts, including the “German Imperial Quarter” (around Place de la République) and the European Quarter (passing by the Palace of Europe, the Palace of Human Rights, and the European Parliament). Continue on foot to Strasbourg Cathedral, a true masterpiece of Gothic art. Outside, its façade is the greatest picture book of the Middle Ages. Inside, the soaring nave invites contemplation. The stained-glass windows from the 12th to the 14th centuries and the rose window are breathtaking. The monumental organ features an exceptional case adorned with automatons. The Renaissance astronomical clock, whose mechanism dates back to 1842, is a marvel. Return by coach to the river station. Departure on your cruise towards Cologne. Presentation of the crew and welcome cocktail. Overnight sailing to Cologne.

Morning spent cruising along the Romantic Rhine towards Cologne. A river steeped in history, the Rhine fascinates with its many legends — including that of the Lorelei and her famous rock — as well as its vineyards and countless castles visible along the way. Arrival in the afternoon in Cologne.

Optional excursion: Cologne. Depart on foot with your guide to reach the city center. Admire the exterior of the cathedral, which took more than five centuries to complete. A masterpiece of Gothic art, it stands as a powerful symbol of the strength and endurance of Christian faith in Europe. Construction began in 1247 and was finally completed in 1863 after being abandoned in the 16th century. Around the cathedral are 12 Romanesque churches arranged in a circle, representing the twelve apostles. Continue your tour through Cologne’s Old Town and pass by the famous House of Eau de Cologne (exteriors). Before returning to the ship, enjoy some free time to stroll through the city’s charming streets. Return on board. Gala evening.

Full day cruising towards Amsterdam(3). Take advantage of this relaxing journey to unwind in the lounge bar or enjoy the peaceful scenery along the Rhine. Various onboard activities and entertainment will be organized by the cruise staff throughout the day. Arrival in Amsterdam at the end of the day.

Morning, optional excursion: Volendam and Zaanse Schans. Depart by coach with your guide for Volendam, a charming fishing village on the IJsselmeer where locals sometimes still wear traditional costumes. You will visit a cheese farm (in Volendam or nearby) to discover how the famous round Dutch cheese, Gouda, is made. Available in various flavors and ages, you will have the opportunity to taste it.

Continue by coach to visit Zaanse Schans, an open-air museum. Discover how the famous Dutch wooden clogs are made and learn about their history dating back to the 1200s. Enjoy some free time in the heart of this Dutch ecomuseum to explore its traditions: windmills, cheese, traditional houses, and more. Starting from 1950, windmills, houses, and utility buildings from the 17th and 18th centuries were relocated here to form a village along the Zaan River. This excursion allows you to discover authentic Holland and its traditions.

Afternoon, optional excursion: Amsterdam. This visit provides an overview of the many historical treasures and curiosities of the Dutch capital. A fascinating and dynamic city where old and modern coexist harmoniously, Amsterdam is rich in history, art, and culture, with surprises around every corner. During a boat ride along the picturesque UNESCO World Heritage canals, admire the city’s distinctive architecture: narrow gabled houses, 17th-century mansions, and the many beautiful bridges spanning the canals, creating an extraordinary urban landscape.

Brunch on board. Disembarkation at 10:00 a.m. End of our services.