Grand Cruise of the Rhine Gorge, Medieval Germany & Switzerland

Grand Cruise of the Rhine Gorge, Medieval Germany & Switzerland - MS George Eliot

17 nights - 30 Sep 2026

MS George Eliot | Rhine

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Itinerary

List Timeline

Basel

Arrive in Basel - On arrival, the dedicated English-speaking crew will welcome you aboard your first-class floating hotel, ensuring you settle into your luxurious, well-equipped cabin and familiarise yourself with the ship.

Day 1

30 September 2026

Basel

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Day 2

01 October 2026

Lucerne

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Day 3

02 October 2026

Breisach

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Day 4

03 October 2026

Strasbourg

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Day 5

04 October 2026

Speyer

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Day 6

05 October 2026

Rüdesheim

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Day 7

06 October 2026

Cologne

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Day 8

07 October 2026

Cologne

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Day 9

08 October 2026

Cologne

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Day 10

09 October 2026

Andernach

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Day 11

10 October 2026

Rhine River Rivers

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Day 12

11 October 2026

Mainz

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Day 13

12 October 2026

Miltenberg

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Day 14

13 October 2026

Würzburg

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Day 15

14 October 2026

Ochsenfurt

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Day 16

15 October 2026

Bamberg

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Day 17

16 October 2026

Nuremberg

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Day 18

17 October 2026

Nuremberg

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Lucerne

Lucerne & Bernese Oberland - Today you have the choice between a full day excursion to Lucerne and the Bernese Oberland, or a more leisurely guided tour of Lucerne and free afternoon in Basel.LucerneTo make the most of the day we depart early and take the short drive to Lucerne, often considered Switzerland’s most beautiful city, spectacularly situated among stunning mountain views.It has been attracting well-heeled visitors for two centuries, including our very own Queen Victoria. Highly recommended is an invigorating stroll along the Chapel Bridge, a unique covered wooden walkway crossing the lake, supported by stilts and lined with colourful flower-filled window boxes. Not only is it the city’s most iconic structure, it’s a superb way to absorb Lucerne’s regal atmosphere, before we continue our exploration of the best of Switzerland.Bernese OberlandAs you enter the Bernese Oberland in central Switzerland, the views become quite literally breath-taking! This is the grand alpine heart of Europe with some of the finest mountain scenery on earth, described by the composer Mendelssohn as ‘the most wonderful of all in this unbelievably beautiful country’.On viewing the legendary snow-capped peaks of the Eiger, Mönch and Jungfrau you’ll be quite simply awestruck. We then ascend by mountain railway for more extraordinary vistas, with the crystal-clear lakes reflecting the meadows and forests below. This truly magical landscape is sure to enchant you.Later we’ll descend again by mountain railway before returning to the ship. Please note, temperatures will be significantly lower at altitude, even during the summer months, so it’s advisable to pack suitable clothing. Lunch is not included on this full day excursion; however, the ship will offer a packed lunch.If you chose a more leisurely start to the day, we drive to Lucerne. LucerneEnjoy a more comprehensive excursion in Lucerne, with a guided tour of the city. Then spend time at leisure wandering its medieval streets before returning to the ship for lunch.BaselThis afternoon you can choose to stay on board or hop on our shuttle bus to Basel for time to explore independently. With a mix of historic and modern architecture, Basel seamlessly blends tradition and innovation. While you're here, head to the old town to explore its narrow winding streets. At its heart, you'll find the magnificent cathedral with its red sandstone walls, colourful roof tiles, and twin towers. Or you could immerse yourself in the city's remarkable museums and countless galleries, celebrating its rich tradition of art collecting.

Breisach

Breisach & Black Forest or Alsace Wine route - This morning's cruising is spent gliding through the dramatic scenery of the rift valley separating the Vosges and Black Forest mountains.We arrive at the ancient town of Breisach, whose historic heart is surrounded by stone ramparts and dominated by the impressive Saint Stephan’s Cathedral, which you can see during time at leisure before lunch onboard.This afternoon you have a choice of touring the Black Forest and Freiburg or visiting the Alsace wine route with its typical wine villages. We drive through some of Central Europe’s most stunning scenery – the Black Forest Mountains. This is a fabled landscape of rugged valleys, white-water rivers, cascading waterfalls and rolling hillsides covered with huge, densely packed pine trees – exactly as you expect it to be.Look out for the Baroque spires of St. Peter Abbey as we drive through the quaint village and stop for a photo of the incredible countryside surrounding St Märgen, on our way to Freiburg. On arrival, we'll follow a local guide around some of the city's sights - including the Münsterplatz and the historic Kaufhaus - before time at leisure to explore independently.Travelling, between the vineyards and mountains, along the Wine Route we make our way to Ribeauvillé - a charming village that lies in the shadow of the majestic ruins of the Three Castles of the Lords of Ribeaupierre. After a short walking tour, there's time to wander its picturesque streets to admire the 15th- to 18th-century buildings and Renaissance squares.Leaving Ribeauvillé, we head next to Riquewihr. Named the 'Most Beautiful Village in France', this medieval town lies right in the heart of the Alsatian vineyards. Famous for both its architecture and its wine, there's plenty to see during our walking tour. There's a little free time to explore before heading back to the ship.As the sun sets and the riverside lights begin to twinkle, enjoy the views through the restaurant’s panoramic windows during tonight's excellent dinner. Afterwards retire to the lounge to enjoy tonight's live performance of popular music spanning the years by a highly talented violin soloist, before we slip our moorings to commence our cruise towards Strasbourg.

Strasbourg

Strasbourg  - This morning, we have arrived in France and Strasbourg, capital of the Alsace region. After breakfast we enjoy a walking tour of its picturesque 16th-century old town – a maze of narrow streets and canals lined with timber-framed houses and sculptured portals.Unforgettable sights include the stupendous Gothic Notre-Dame Cathedral, multi-towered Ponts Couverts – covered bridges – and the pretty Petite France quarter of pastel-coloured former artisans’ houses lining the canals. Don’t be surprised if you’re tempted to linger a while in a typical Alsatian café to sample some of the region’s world-famous wines – a crisp Riesling or that particular speciality of Alsace, spicy Gewürztraminer.During lunch, our elegant vessel glides away from our mooring as we commence an afternoon’s scenic cruising. Head up to the sun deck and take in the views from the comfort of a sun lounger or retire to the shady comfort of the lounge to chat over a coffee with newly made friends.As evening falls, thoughts turn to what might be on the menu tonight, so head to the relaxed ambience of the ship’s restaurant as the chef presents another delicious meal. Retire to the bar as we arrive in Speyer later tonight.Personalise your holiday -Land train tour of StrasbourgPrice: from €8ppDuration: 30-40 minsHop on the Little Train and discover the charming narrow streets of Strasbourg's old town, the romantic 'Petite France', the many quays and covered bridges and the famous Cathedral Square.Optional excursions can be done after or instead of the guided walking tour.This excursion can be arranged on board and is payable locally. Personalise your holiday -Take a cruise tour of StrasbourgPrice: from €15.70ppDuration: 1hr 10minsDiscover Strasbourg from a unique perspective - the water! As it flows through the centre of the city, you'll explore three of Strasbourg's 15 districts. Along the way, you'll spot the UNESCO-protect Grande Île, the imperial district of Neustadt, the European Parliament and more.Optional excursions can be done after or instead of the guided walking tour.This excursion can be arranged on board and is payable locally.

Speyer

Speyer - We remain moored in Speyer this morning to enjoy a guided tour of this delightful medieval gem, founded by the Celts and one of Germany’s oldest cities, celebrated for its illustrious past.The breath-taking Imperial Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is among the largest Romanesque churches in the world and also one of the finest. The beautiful four-roomed crypt, with its striking marble floors and pastel-coloured pillars, is the resting place of many Holy Roman emperors and German kings.Another landmark is the magnificent neo-Gothic Gedächtniskirche, built to commemorate the 1529 ‘Protestation at Speyer’, a significant event when a group of Martin Luther’s followers protested his imperial ban. Henceforth, Luther’s religious followers were known as Protestants.Returning on board for lunch, we commence our cruise once again, so sit back and watch the idyllic scenery slipping past through the panoramic windows: rolling hills and fertile vineyards, home to the Liebfraumilch wines of the region, oxbow lakes, long deserted by the river flow and now havens for bird and wildlife.This evening there’s a truly memorable occasion – the ‘Chef’s Dinner’, when the chef prepares his superb ‘signature’ dishes for you to enjoy in the splendid surroundings of the ship’s restaurant, featuring delicious specialities of the countries and regions we visit during our cruise. During dinner our vessel arrives in the classic Rhine wine village of Rüdesheim, so you might fancy wandering ashore to enjoy a digestif – perhaps a glass of Asbach, the famous brandy distilled locally.Personalise your holiday -Visit to the Technik MuseumDuration: At leisurePrice: £23pp (2025) & £26pp (2026)Discover technology from the underwater world to space. Ever wonder what the inside of a submarine looks like? Or how big a jumbo jet is? From aircraft to vintage crafts, fire engines to mechanical instruments, there's plenty to inspire and amaze!Included in your entrance is a ticket to the IMAX theatre where the gigantic screen shows fascinating movies detailing incredible technological feats and natural wonders.Optional excursion can be done instead of the walking tour of Speyer.Please contact us at least three weeks before your departure to add this experience to your booking. Minimum and maximum numbers apply. If not enough guests opt for this extra, the experience may not run.

Rüdesheim

Rüdesheim & Rhine Gorge - Rüdesheim is a delight to wander, witness the bustling marketplace, the half-timbered Klunkhardshof and Brömserburg Castle, which dates from 1275. This afternoon you are free to explore at leisure or choose form one of our included experiences:You could visit Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet, a fantastical adventure into the world of automatic musical instruments. See the impressive collection of fascinating musical instruments that function like computers, ranging from tiny, delicate music boxes to an enormous orchestrion.Or you might choose to travel up the hillside, above Rüdesheim's famous vineyards, in a two-seater cable car enjoying lovely views of the Rhine River and surrounding countryside. At the top the views get even better, and a stroll around the Niederwald monument – which celebrates the unification of Germany by Prussians in the 1870s - allows for a peaceful moment looking out over the town.This afternoon we witness a real highlight of the cruise, the dramatic Rhine Gorge: steep vineyards give way to almost vertical rocky outcrops, towering above the sweeping valley sides. Sailing past Saint Goar and the many ruined castles, you get a real sense of the myths of this historic river coming alive around you. No legend is more famous than that surrounding the Loreley Rock, where beautiful nymphs distracted hapless sailors, luring them to their deaths in the treacherous waters.Relax on the sun deck as our captain skilfully navigates the ship through the huge looping bend at Boppard – one of the most impressive on the river. Keep an eye out for the mighty Marksburg Castle too, an impressive fortress dating back to the 13th century.It’s not long before we arrive in picturesque Koblenz and another meticulously prepared dinner awaits on board. Afterwards, delight in the upbeat sounds of Rhenish folk music with a live performance of traditional instruments.Personalise your holiday -Wine tasting at a local wineryDuration: 1hr 30 minsPrice: £22Visit a winery in Rüdesheim to taste the local wine. In the atmospheric backdrop of a historic wine cave, enjoy sampling the varieties this region is famous for, including Riesling, Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris, and learn interesting facts about the viticulture and the history of wine in the area.Please note: Due to the location of the wine tasting, it's advised all guests bring a jacket.Optional excursion can be done during free time in Rüdesheim.Please contact us at least three weeks before your departure to add this experience to your booking. Minimum and maximum numbers apply. If not enough guests opt for this extra, the experience may not run.

Cologne

Koblenz - Founded by the Romans, this historic city is beautifully located at the confluence of the Rhine and its sister river the Moselle. Discover Koblenz’s maze of medieval buildings in the Altstadt – old town – which is studded with a fine array of traditional shops and classic Rhineland cafés.On our guided tour of this delightful town, historic buildings appear seemingly at every turn: see the former mint, the Four Towers with their ornamental 17th-century turrets and several fascinating squares and churches, including the 9th-century Basilica of Saint Kastor. The waterfront along the Moselle is stunning too, with the medieval Balduin Bridge, staggeringly still in use.If you manage to resist the tempting cakes on offer from the beckoning pavement cafés, then you’ll be ready for lunch as we leave Koblenz behind.Enjoy a leisurely afternoon on board as we drift through this lovely Rhineland scenery, past quaint riverside towns with pretty waterfronts and carefully tended vineyards. See the famous ruined bridge at Remagen, which was captured intact by the Allies towards the end of the Second World War, allowing thousands of troops to cross into Germany’s heartland, and the forested Siebengebirge - Seven Mountains – a cluster of ancient volcanic hills that inspired many of the Brothers Grimm’s legends, including Snow White.During dinner this evening, reflect on the spectacular sights seen and wonderful places visited whilst travelling with us on this magical cruise as we arrive at our final destination, Cologne.Personalise your holiday -Cable car ride to Ehrenbreitstein fortress and visitDuration: At leisurePrice: £19.00Take a scenic cable car over the Rhine River to the impressive Ehrenbreitstein fortress, which stands 118 meters tall on its riverbanks. Built by the Prussians to fend off the French, it's the second-largest preserved fortress in Europe, with an unparalleled view of Koblenz and the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers. Here, you can explore the castle's 1000-year history at leisure before returning to Koblenz by cable car.Optional excursion can be done during free time or instead of the walking tour of Koblenz.Please contact us at least three weeks before your departure to add this experience to your booking. Minimum and maximum numbers apply. If not enough guests opt for this extra, the experience may not run.

Cologne

Cologne - After a lazy breakfast there’ll be the opportunity to recharge and reset today with time to yourself to get further acquainted with this beautifully grand and historic city. Your tick list might include a wander round the Sculpture Park or indulging your sweet tooth at the f...

Cologne

Cologne - Today will be packed with discovery as you disembark after breakfast for a guided walking tour through Cologne. The cathedral's spires dominate the maze of cobbled streets as we wander the old town with our guide who’ll weave tales that bring the city's past to life.  Ente...

Andernach

Andernach & Boppard  - You’ll feel the history in Andernach, founded by the Romans in 12BC on the site of an old Celtic settlement then seized by the Franks in 450 AD who set up a royal court within its old fort walls. By medieval times, the town had grown in stature and was trading with places as far away as England and Scandinavia (a Wall Street of its time!) even having its own mint and coinage. Andernach and the surrounding area is well known for its pumice with production booming since the 1950s. Enjoy a guided walking tour around its picturesque streets and admire the town’s defensive walls, gates and towers, the finest of which is the 56-metre tall Round Tower. See the ruined castle with its well-preserved keep, and the cathedral with its four soaring towers, impressive interior and quirky wall decorations. At the old harbour area discover the Old Crane, a 16th-century stone-turning tower crane, still in use until 1911 to load millstones, tuff and wine. Back on board for lunch, take in the glorious river scenery as we set sail for Boppard, a real time capsule, set against a backdrop of rolling forested slopes and vineyards. Nicknamed ‘Town of the Roses’ it’s a joy to amble through its picture-perfect streets soaking up the ambience of yesteryear. If you’re feeling energetic Marksburg Castle set on a hill overlooking the town is well worth the walk. Dating from the 13th century, as one of the only castles on the Rhine to fully escape war damage it well-deserves its UNESCO status. Learn about life here through the ages as you wander through the Gothic Hall, armoury and kitchen imagining life here in centuries past. With bird’s eye views stretching for miles over the river and valley below, it’s pretty clear why the castle was so well positioned to view oncoming enemies.  Our ship remains moored overnight so after dinner there’s the chance to hop ashore once more for a nightcap in one of the cosy tucked away wine cellars.  Personalise your holiday -Andernach's Geyser ExpeditionDuration: 3.5hrsPrice: £18pp (2025) & £19pp (2026)Learn all about the natural phenomenon of the cold-water geyser in Andernach. Start your expedition with a visit to the museum, taking you on a journey into the depths beneath the earth, then take a boat to the Namedyer Werth nature reserve where you’ll experience the geyser's eruption. You will return by boat back to Andernach.This optional excursion can be done instead of the guided tour in Andernach. Please contact us at least three weeks before your departure to add this experience to your booking. Minimum and maximum numbers apply. If not enough guests opt for this extra, the experience may not run.

Rhine River Rivers

Rhine Gorge & Rüdesheim - Today you’ll have another change to see the world-famous Rhine Gorge, and luckily these views never get boring! Our idea of perfection is spending time sitting on the sun deck as you float past some of the most beautiful landscapes in Europe, with a nice coff...

Mainz

Mainz - During breakfast arrive in the historic city of Mainz, a colourful ensemble of domes and spires rising above the riverbank. Situated at the confluence of the Rhine and Main Rivers, Mainz wears the crown as Germany’s wine capital and proudly claims fame as the birthplace of Johannes Gutenberg, the mastermind behind the movable type printing press.  Dive into history at the city museum, where a reconstruction of Gutenberg's workshop and two copies of the original Gutenberg Bibles from 1455 await. Dominating the skyline is the Martinsdom Cathedral, a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture and Saint Stephen’s Church adds to the spectacle with its stained-glass windows.  On our guided tour, wander the crooked streets of the old town and city centre to discover the half-timbered houses and historic Roman Catholic monuments, finishing at Saint Stephen’s where you’ll have the opportunity to admire the captivating Chagall windows up close. After the tour you have time to see the striking Cathedral and bustling marketplace.Lunch is served on board as we continue our cruise, now up the Main river. Due to locks and low bridges the main part of the sun deck will be closed between Mainz and Passau. The other outside areas in front of the lounge, the Riverview Kitchen and the lower section of the sun deck are still accessible. It’s the perfect opportunity to relax and make the most of the ship’s excellent facilities. Find a comfy seat in the lounge with an afternoon cup of tea and enjoy the views. This is the very heart of Germany’s winelands, a dreamy landscape of lush woodland and fertile vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see.Enjoy dinner on board as we continue sailing overnight to Miltenberg. Personalise your holiday -Guided tour of the Gutenberg MuseumDuration: 1.5hrsPrice: £10pp (2025) & £11pp (2026)With your guide, walk to the Gutenberg museum, dedicated to Johannes Gutenberg, a native of Mainz, who invented printing with movable metal type over 500 years ago! It houses a reconstruction of his workshop and, outstandingly, two original 1455 Gutenberg Bibles. Founded in 1900 by Mainz citizens, the museum highlights the history of letterpress printing through technical tools, typesetting machines, and printing presses. As a "World Museum for the Art of Printing," it features sections on the origins of printing in East Asia, scripts from the Islamic world, and the development of manuscripts. Other displays cover the history of printing presses, bookbinding, fine press techniques, and the production of paper and colours.Optional excursion can be done instead of the walking tour of Mainz.Please contact us at least three weeks before your departure to add this experience to your booking. Minimum and maximum numbers apply. If not enough guests opt for this extra, the experience may not run.

Miltenberg

Miltenberg & Wertheim - This morning brings us to the medieval village of Miltenberg, a living testament to the beauty of a bygone era. With our local guide leading the charge, we’ll navigate its labyrinth of winding alleys and lanes, uncovering the impressive gatehouse that stands guard over the village and the charming marketplace, lined with traditional fachwerk buildings sporting characterful timber frames; legend has it that the locals were granted free wood from the surrounding forests, resulting in the abundance of this architectural style. Marvel at the square's stone-carved fountain, featuring dancing cherubs, and the intricate detail of the Gasthaus Zum Riesen, claiming to be Germany's oldest tavern.  If you would like to have more time to explore independently, you can choose a shorter orientation walk.Later as we drift away, we’ll pass under Miltenberg’s red-brick bridge as our Captain skillfully navigates the gentle meandering bends of the Main. Later our ship will pass under Miltenberg’s red-brick bridge as our Captain skilfully navigates the meandering bends of the Main before our arrival in Wertheim. Off the beaten tourist path, Wertheim welcomes us with its authentic ambience and a postcard-worthy scene of fishing boats anchored along the quayside, pastel-toned houses and a russet-walled 12th-century castle overseeing the old town. We’ll dive into the town's secrets during a late afternoon walking tour with an expert guide, keeping an eye out for the Zobelhaus – a contender for Germany's narrowest house.  Alternatively, if you’re in the mood for something more active, consider joining a tour to Wertheim Castle. After an easy yet steep climb, you'll be rewarded with stunning views of the old town and the river landscapes of the Main and Tauber. The castle has overlooked the city since the 12th century, although it was partially destroyed during the Thirty Years' War. Its ruins are filled with fascinating history waiting to be explored.This evening indulge in another delectable dinner as we set sail towards Würzburg.

Würzburg

Würzburg - Indulge in a leisurely morning of sailing. By early afternoon, we’ll moor in the Bavarian city of Würzburg, a sophisticated gem gracing the banks of the Main. You’re sure to find it a contrast to the quintessential villages we've meandered through and after lunch, it's time...

Ochsenfurt

Rothenburg & Ochsenfurt - This morning, prepare for a delightful deviation as we take a drive along the Romantic Road – a fitting name for a route that winds through some of the most spellbinding scenery in the world. Our journey takes us through a folkloric landscape, threaded by a p...

Bamberg

Bamberg - Savor a morning of scenic sailing: find a prime spot in the lounge and watch as a kaleidoscope of glorious vistas slips past. This afternoon, we’ll dock in Bamberg – a town so pretty it could be the backdrop for a fairytale. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bamberg...

Nuremberg

Nuremberg - Enjoy a relaxing start to this final morning of sailing on the way to our last stop on this cruise. Browse the onboard boutique, or simply find a comfortable seat in the lounge with a cup of tea watching the world go by! Despite being known as the site of many pre-war Nazi rallies in the Second World War and later the war crime trials, the city’s charming, cobbled streets and classic half-timbered houses offer a striking contrast to its somber past. Its beautifully restored castle, rebuilt after World War II, stands as a proud symbol of resilience. Other notable landmarks include the Church of Saint Lawrence, a magnificent example of Gothic architecture, and the Church of Our Lady, famed for its intricate façade and a mechanical clock dating back to 1506. This church overlooks the lively Hauptmarkt, an elegant square distinguished by its ornate fountain, which resembles a Gothic spire.This afternoon you have two choices: Choose to explore Nuremberg’s medieval history with a panoramic coach tour of the city culminating in a visit to the majestic Nuremberg Castle. This fortress, symbolising imperial power, stands as a testament to the city’s heritage, once serving as the residence for Holy Roman Emperors. Here you'll encounter the opulence of the Knights' and Imperial Hall, a Romanesque double chapel, and an engaging exhibit that unveils the inner workings of the Holy Roman Empire. Additionally, you can enjoy panoramic views of the city from Sinwell Tower or look down into the Deep Well. After time to explore the castle, we'll enjoy a walking tour down to the old town ending with free time to explore Nuremberg at leisure. Alternatively, you can combine Nuremberg’s rich medieval history with its significance in WWII. Nuremberg was considered the spiritual home of the Nazi Party, hosting massive propaganda events like the annual party rallies at the Zeppelin Field and serving as the birthplace of the Nuremberg Laws. After WWII, it became the site of the Nuremberg Trials, where top Nazi leaders were held accountable for war crimes in the Palace of Justice. Today, we'll stop to visit the rally grounds and pass the courthouse before leaving the coach to see the castle and finish with a walking tour of the old town. As we wander, we'll learn more about the city's long history, and see many of its medieval sites, like the Hauptmarkt Square (where the enchanting Christmas Markets are held) and the Old City Hall.Amid all this splendour, spare a moment to taste some of Nuremberg’s prized gingerbread or take some home as a delicious souvenir. After a fascinating day, return to the ship for our last dinner, a splendid finale to this memorable holiday.

*This holiday is generally suitable for persons with reduced mobility. For customers with reduced mobility or any medical condition that may require special assistance or arrangements to be made, please notify your Cruise Concierge at the time of your enquiry, so that we can provide specific information as to the suitability of the holiday, as well as make suitable arrangements with the Holiday Provider on your behalf.

30 September 2026

Basel

01 October 2026

Lucerne

02 October 2026

Breisach

03 October 2026

Strasbourg

04 October 2026

Speyer

05 October 2026

Rüdesheim

06 October 2026

Cologne

07 October 2026

Cologne

08 October 2026

Cologne

09 October 2026

Andernach

10 October 2026

Rhine River Rivers

11 October 2026

Mainz

12 October 2026

Miltenberg

13 October 2026

Würzburg

14 October 2026

Ochsenfurt

15 October 2026

Bamberg

16 October 2026

Nuremberg

17 October 2026

Nuremberg

Return home

What's Included with
Riviera Travel

Whats Included Intro

Tea and coffee

All airport taxes and port charges

Direct flights from up to 17 UK airports with no regional supplements & transfers

Five-star ships with impeccable on-board service

Spacious cabins with windows

Insightful excursions & visits every day with local guides

Expert Riviera Cruise Director looking after you throughout

Evening entertainment from quizzes to impressive performers

Delicious full board dining, plus Captain's Dinner

Free Wi-Fi

Explore MS George Eliot

Main Restaurant

The spacious main restaurant offers an intimate yet relaxed fine dining experience with informal free seating. Guests are spoilt for choice with a hearty buffet at breakfast; a salad and dessert buffet plus pasta station at lunch with served soup and main courses, and sumptuous four-course dinners executed with silver service.

Excursions and activities

We are a well-travelled collective - made up of our guests as well as our team. We'll admit it - we're obsessed with travel.

But that's not our only interest. We also love architecture, history, the arts, and gastronomy - everything that makes a culture unique. And we plan our itineraries to ensure we're catering to those interests. Perfecting every excursion to ensure you get the most out of your onshore adventures.

Most days are filled with full or half-day excursions. Whether that's a city tour, an introduction to a brand-new town or a more in-depth visit to a specific landmark or attraction. You'll see the very best of every destination. Not just the legendary locations, we'll uncover the top-secret local spots too.

World-famous landmarks

You'll get to experience some world-famous destinations in the company of our passionate local guides. Sites like the Benedictine Melk Abbey on the Danube, spectacular Pont du Gard on the Rhône, Keukenhof Gardens - the world's largest flower gardens - on the Dutch Waterways and Cologne with its cathedral, the largest Gothic church in Northern Europe.

A taste of your destination

Food has the uncanny ability to reveal the softer parts of the destination most tourists overlook. Recipes passed down through the generations slowly become ingrained within a culture, featuring fresh local produce and traditional cooking techniques. Our excursions often include delicious local produce perfected over centuries - sample cheese in Switzerland and chocolate in Germany (it's not a cruise for those watching their weight), wine tasting in the world-famous wine region of Burgundy and port in the port wine cellars of Porto.

For even more, why not choose one of our Gastronomy themed departures?

Authentic cultural experiences

Our river cruise itineraries deliver authentic and engaging moments to fully immerse you in the culture. You'll remember being seduced by the fiery passion of flamenco dancing after a cruise along the Douro. Hold on to that feeling of wonder you felt as you watch the glassblower creating the most beautiful vase out of a glowing mass. And tell the stories you heard during a Hungarian folklore show to your grandchildren at bedtime. The memory of these authentic cultural experiences will last a lifetime.

Sun Deck

Crowning MS George Eliot is the Sun Deck, the ideal spot for taking in unhindered river views. There is a shaded seating area with plenty of comfortable outdoor chairs and sun loungers, as well as a putting green and splash pool.

Please note: The Sun Deck is only accessible by stairs.

Hair Salon

Book an appointment at the hair salon, which also offers manicures and pedicures for a small additional fee.

Deluxe Balcony Suite

For the ultimate in space and river cruise luxury, the spacious Deluxe Balcony Suite offers a generous living area with chairs and table, plus soft cotton bathrobes and slippers. There are floor-to-ceiling windows and sliding glass doors that open out on to a small balcony with a table for two.

There are four Deluxe Balcony Suites on the Diamond Deck (upper deck).

Features

Individual climate control
Floor to ceiling windows with outside balcony
Twin beds which can be configured as double
Nespresso machine and tea making facilities
Spacious ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
Luxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap
Towels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryer
UK plug sockets & 2 USB charging points
Table and chairs
Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV
Safe & mini fridge
Turn down service

Facilities

Queen or Twin Configuration
Lounge Area
Shower
Toiletries Provided
Room Service Available
TV
Free Wi-Fi
Safe
Hair Dryer
Desk
Suite Benefits
Mini Bar (Additional Cost)
Telephone
Air Conditioning

Superior Suite

Superior Suites on the Emerald Deck benefit from a generous living area and smaller fixed windows.

There are two Superior Suites the Emerald Deck (lower deck).

Features

Individual climate control
Fixed window
Twin beds which can be configured as double
Nespresso machine and tea making facilities
Ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
Luxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap
Towels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryer
UK plug sockets & 2 USB charging points
Table and chairs
Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV
Safe & mini fridge
Turn down service

Facilities

Queen or Twin Configuration
Shower
Toiletries Provided
Room Service Available
TV
Media/Entertainment Station
Coffee Machine
Safe
Hair Dryer
Telephone
Desk
Air Conditioning
Mini Bar (Additional Cost)

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