Duration
10 Nights
Journey Type
Cruise only (Please call for flight options)
Ports
10 Ports
4 August
Setting sail from 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.
5 August
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.
6-7 August
Netherlands: Gorinchem
Germany: Düsseldorf
8 August
Germany: Boppard
Boppard is one of the most attractive towns on the Rhine, situated on a horseshoe bend with a lovely riverside promenade. Take the chairlift up to the Vierseenblick for fantastic views, go hiking in the woods or explore the pretty streets and handsome architecture of the town itself.
9 August
Germany: Mannheim
Situated near the confluence of the Rhine and Neckar rivers, Mannheim is an important industrial centre with a lively cultural scene. It’s also conveniently located for exploring the pretty town of Heidelberg and the wine growing region around Nierstein.
10 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.
11-12 August
Switzerland: 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.
13 August
Switzerland: Montreux
14 August
Arriving in 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.
Your home from home
Tauck’s Jewel-class vessels offer spacious suites, a choice of restaurants and comfortable public areas including an expansive sundeck.
What we love
Rich woods and plush fabrics give these ships a luxurious feel. The alternative restaurant with outside seating at the back 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 | 118 Guests |
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Staff | 36 International Staff |
Style | Active days followed by sophisticated evenings. |
Inclusions |
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Length | 361 feet |
Breadth | 37 feet |
Tailor-make your trip
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.
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.