DAY 1: UK - Zurich - Basel.
Fly to Zurich where you will be met by our representative and transferred to Basel to embark your river cruise ship. Your cruise includes full board from dinner this evening until breakfast on day 8. (D)

DAY 2: Strasbourg.
This morning, set sail for Strasbourg, arriving after lunch. This afternoon, why not take an optional tour of this charming city, which boasts half-timbered houses, quaint cobbled streets and a soaring Gothic Minster? The tour provides the perfect introduction, taking in the European parliament, atmospheric lanes and canals of the Old Tanners' quarter: once the home of tanners, fishermen and millers, and many other highlights. Enjoy free time afterwards to delve further into the city, perhaps shopping for souvenirs or relaxing at a pavement café. (B, L, D)

DAY 3: Speyer - Rüdesheim.
This morning, arrive in the German city of Speyer, famed for its four-towered cathedral, for an optional excursion to Heidelberg Castle. Set above the pretty university town of Heidelberg, this imposing edifice houses the world's biggest wine barrel and commands stupendous views. Afterwards, a tour of Heidelberg's medieval old town lets you admire its fairytale cobbled streets, gateway and charming central square, which managed to survive heavy bombing during World War II. Later, cruise to Rüdesheim, a picturesque town overlooked by the ruins of Ehrenfels Castle. If you wish this evening, enjoy an optional after-dinner excursion by mini-train to Siegfried's Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum. (B, L, D)

DAY 4: Braubach.
This morning visit Eberbach Monastery on an optional excursion, set deep in the Rhinegau region. This wonderful, old abbey was home to Cistercian monks for over 700 years. Experience the life and achievements of the Cistercians as you wander through its cloisters and secluded gardens. Cruise through the Rhine Gorge, now designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, to the charming town of Braubach. Take an optional excursion to Marksburg Castle, perched on a rocky crag above the Rhine. The castle is widely regarded as the best preserved on the Rhine and is the only one to have never been destroyed. (B, L, D)

DAY 5: Cologne - Düsseldorf.
This morning, get acquainted with Cologne, one of Germany's largest and liveliest cities, on an optional guided walk around its centre. The undoubted highlight is a visit to its soaring cathedral, a vast Gothic church with a breathtaking interior. Afterwards, enjoy a glass of Cologne's local beer, 'Kölsch', in a traditional brewery. In the afternoon, continue cruising to Düsseldorf, arriving in time for an optional tour of the old town with its tree-lined main square, cobbled alleyways and medieval churches. (B, L, D)

DAY 6: Arnhem.
Arrive in the Dutch town of Arnhem, made famous by the battle that occurred here late in World War II. Enjoy an optional morning visit to the splendid Palace of Het Loo: the summer residence of the Royal House of Orange from the 17th to the 20th centuries, before spending the afternoon at leisure exploring Arnhem. (B, L, D)

DAY 7: Amsterdam.
A wonderful day of scenery and interest lies ahead, starting with an optional canal cruise and tour of Amsterdam. Glide along the waterways, past picturesque merchants' houses, and admire landmarks such as the 17th century Royal Palace and famous double drawbridge of 'Skinny Bridge'. The optional canal cruise excursion also pays a visit to the Van Gogh Museum, with the world's largest collection of art work by the troubled artist. (B, L, D)

DAY 8: Amsterdam - UK.
Disembark after breakfast and transfer to the airport for your flight to the UK. (B)