Trip Reports
Duration
10 Nights
Journey Type
Cruise only (Please call for flight options)
Ports
7 Ports
25-28 August
Setting sail from Basel
Basel lies where Switzerland, France and Germany meet, a sophisticated and multicultural city with a picturesque setting astride the river Rhine. The medieval Old Town is exceptionally well preserved, best appreciated from the summit of the hilltop cathedral, which offers incredible views across the city. Basel boasts a wealth of museums and galleries, and plays host to events including the renowned Art Basel contemporary art fair, held during the summer, and Fasnacht, Switzerland's most famous winter carnival.
Don't miss
Explore the medieval Old Town on foot for a true feel of life in Basel 500 years ago.
29 August
France: Strasbourg
Strasbourg is the capital of France’s Alsace region, right next to the border with Germany, and there is a tangible Germanic influence that sets the city a little apart from the rest of France. Highlights include the beautiful Gothic cathedral, the old town’s fairytale half-timbered houses, and the pictureque canals of the Petite France district.
30 August
Germany: Koblenz
Koblenz was founded by the Romans, who valued the city’s strategically important location where the Rhine and Moselle rivers meet. Rebuilt from the rubble of the Second World War, modern Koblenz has a pleasant and relaxed atmosphere, and serves as a gateway to the Romantic Rhine.
31 August - 1 September
Germany: Düsseldorf
Netherlands: Gorinchem
2 September
Belgium: Antwerp
Antwerp is a city bound up with the arts, once home to the likes of Rubens and Van Dyck, and more recently carving out a reputation as the fashion capital of Belgium. It’s also a magnet for shopaholics, with designer boutiques and jewellers galore.
3-4 September
Arriving in Brussels
As the home of the European Parliament, Brussels may come as something of a surprise to visitors expecting a bland and humourless city. The Grand Place, surrounded by grandiose guildhalls, is one of the finest squares in all of Europe, and the city has a rich cultural heritage; former residents include Magritte, Brueghel and Hergé, creator of Tintin. The city also boasts an excellent selection of restaurants, cafés and bars, where you can sample moules-frites, Belgian waffles or dangerously drinkable Trappist beer.
Our tip
Belgian food is seriously outstanding, so do your homework (or ask us to do it for you) and get top restaurant reservations in advance.
Your home from home
Tauck’s most modern design, the Inspiration Class, offers the most space per guest of all European river vessels.
What we love
Rich woods are complimented by muted tones, giving these ships an airy and luxurious feel. The alternative restaurant with outside seating at the rear is an idyllic place for a relaxed lunch as you cruise to your next call and the regional cuisine served in the Dining Room is excellent.
| Capacity | 130 Guests |
|---|---|
| Staff | 43 International Staff |
| Style |
Active days followed by sophisticated evenings. |
| Inclusions |
|
| Length | 443 feet |
Tailor-make your trip
Ways to make it better
Where to stay in Basel
The Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois (three kings) is one of Europe’s oldest city hotels.
Excursions from Basel
If the Romans are your thing then you'll enjoy Switzerland’s largest Roman ruins at Augusta Raurica, with the excellent Römermuseum alongside.
Our favourite hotel in Brussels
We like the intimate and centrally located Hotel Le Dixseptième.
Day trips from Brussels
Visit Waterloo. The battlefield is located 20km from Brussels and a good guide will bring it alive.
