Rhine, Strasbourg and Heidelberg River Cruise

Rhine, Strasbourg and Heidelberg River Cruise - MS Emily Brontë

7 nights - 03 Oct 2026

MS Emily Bronte | Rhine , Moselle

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FREE Superior drinks package - Available on all 2025 and 2026 European river cruises!

Award-winning European river cruises include everything you need for an exceptional experience.

Delicious full board dining, plus Chef's Dinner

View prices as:

PER PERSON TOTAL PRICE

Select Package

CRUISE ONLY

FLY CRUISE

Select Guest

2 PEOPLE

Select Cabins

Emerald Deck Suite (Lower)

~~WAS £2299pp~~ From £2207PP

Ruby Deck Suite (Middle)

~~WAS £2849pp~~ From £2735PP

Diamond Deck Suite (Upper)

~~WAS £3049pp~~ From £2927PP

Diamond Deck (Upper) - Stern Superior Suite

~~WAS £3399pp~~ From £3263PP

Select Cabins

Emerald Deck Suite (Lower)

~~WAS £2299pp~~ From £2207PP

Ruby Deck Suite (Middle)

~~WAS £2849pp~~ From £2735PP

Diamond Deck Suite (Upper)

~~WAS £3049pp~~ From £2927PP

Diamond Deck (Upper) - Stern Superior Suite

~~WAS £3399pp~~ From £3263PP

Want to add a hotel stay or change your flights?

Just call our team of cruise specialists to help build your dream cruise holiday today!

Free Call our River Cruise Specialists on 0808 248 2164

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Prices based on 2 people sharing. Cruise only price does not include flights. Fly-cruise price may vary by chosen UK airport.

(Prices correct as of today’s date, are updated daily, are subject to change and represent genuine availability at time of update).

Cruise only holidays are financially protected by ABTA. Fly cruise holidays are financially protected by Riviera Travel under ATOL number 3230

Please click here to check the essential travel requirements before booking this cruise.

Other dates available

29 Apr 2025

Riviera Travel

Rhine, Strasbourg and Heidelberg River Cruise - MS Emily Brontë

from £2303pp

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26 Aug 2025

Riviera Travel

Rhine, Strasbourg and Heidelberg River Cruise - MS Emily Brontë

from £2207pp

More info

11 Jun 2026

Riviera Travel

Rhine, Strasbourg and Heidelberg River Cruise - MS Emily Brontë

from £2351pp

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19 Jul 2026

Riviera Travel

Rhine, Strasbourg and Heidelberg River Cruise - MS Emily Brontë

from £2207pp

More info

Itinerary

List Timeline

Cologne

Day 1

03 October 2026

Cologne

More Info

Day 2

04 October 2026

Koblenz

More Info

Day 3

05 October 2026

Mainz

More Info

Day 4

06 October 2026

Heidelberg

More Info

Day 5

07 October 2026

Strasbourg

More Info

Day 6

08 October 2026

Rüdesheim

More Info

Day 7

09 October 2026

Cologne

More Info

Day 8

10 October 2026

Cologne

More Info

Koblenz

Koblenz & Boppard - When you peek out from your cabin this morning, you’ll realise the ship has slipped quietly away from Cologne; the view that greets you is of vine-covered valleys sides aglow in the morning light, bidding you a warm welcome to the charms of the Rhine.There’s nothing quite like that feeling of anticipation when gliding alongside the promenade of a river port, snatching tantalising glimpses of what lies ashore, and Koblenz – beautifully located at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers – doesn’t disappoint.The city is immersed in two millennia of history: founded by the Romans, it was successively occupied by the Franks, chosen as a residence of the German prince electors, conquered by the French and fortified by the Prussians! All have left their marks in the city’s rich array of castles, churches and historic buildings.Koblenz is a romantic’s dream – forest-covered hillsides dominate the skyline, while the lower slopes are strewn with pretty, half-timbered buildings so typical of the Rhineland. After a satisfying breakfast, we disembark to enjoy an insightful guided tour through ‘Old Koblenz’, a patchwork of narrow streets and squares, many lined with exquisitely restored traditional houses and cosy cafés.There’s time to explore on your own, maybe taking in a little shopping, before ambling back to the cruise ship.We continue upstream as we enjoy our first relaxing lunch on board and before long we arrive in Boppard, a gorgeous town on a dramatic, almost U-shaped river bend. Known as the ‘Pearl of the Rhine’, Boppard is renowned for its storybook medieval atmosphere of cobbled streets and ancient houses. Here we’ll enjoy free time to explore highlights including the beautiful white stone St. Severus and Carmelite churches, the marketplace with the ruins of the fortress and the old town with its charming winding alleys and half-timbered houses.The early evening is an ideal time to wander along the town’s attractive riverside Rheinallee promenade before thoughts turn to tonight’s menu. After dinner, delight in the upbeat sounds of Rhenish folk music with a live performance on traditional instruments. Personalise your holiday -Rhine wine tasting Duration: 1.5hrsPrice: €12pp (2025) & 2026 prices will be available soonSample a selection of the delightful wines produced in this section of the Rhine Valley, famous for its Riesling production. Visit a local winery and learn all about the different wines grown in this area during the tasting.Optional excursion can be done during free time.Please contact us for more information and to add the above experience to your booking, or you may have the chance on board to book. Minimum numbers apply, so if not enough guests opt for this extra, it may not happen. Personalise your holiday -Cable car ride to Ehrenbreitstein fortress and visitDuration: At leisurePrice: £19pp (2025) & £21pp (2026)Take 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 two weeks before you’re set to depart to add the above experience to your booking before departure.

Mainz

Rhine Gorge & Mainz - Slipping our moorings in Boppard we cruise through the Rhine Gorge, where the waters narrow to one-fifth their normal width and flow more swiftly. Sheer valley walls soar and magnificent birds of prey glide on the thermals above.Teutonic knights built the numerous redoubtable castles as symbols of their power and to extract tolls from ships, but the fortresses now stand as silent ruins on forested hillsides as reminders of how fortunes change with the passage of history. This really is the magical Rhine of our imagination, so find a comfortable spot on the Sun Deck or in the forward observation lounge and enjoy the experience of cruising this famous stretch of water.We leave the ship and embark on a guided tour of Mainz’s historic old town, a fascinating journey through its charming cobblestone streets. Our guide will share intriguing stories and insights about the town's rich history and architectural highlights along the way. The tour will end at the exquisite St. Stephan’s Church, renowned for its captivating Chagall windows, which we'll have the opportunity to admire up close.After exploring the church, we'll have some free time to wander the vibrant market square, where local vendors showcase a variety of goods. You can also visit the magnificent St. Martin’s Cathedral, an architectural gem that is a prominent feature in Mainz's cityscape and is over a thousand years old.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 two weeks before you’re set to depart to add the above experience to your booking before departure. Minimum numbers apply, and capacity is limited.

Heidelberg

Strasbourg

Strasbourg & Colmar - By breakfast we’ve arrived in France and the charming city of Strasbourg, capital of the Alsace region. The city is a complete delight – its centre a mosaic of winding alleys and lanes lined with quirkily crooked, half-timbered houses largely unchanged since the 14th century. During its history Strasbourg has been both German and French, and you see influences of both in its language, cuisine and appearance, creating a truly individual ambience.This morning, you have a couple of exciting choices.Explore this delightful city on a walking tour with a local guide leading us to its enchanting centre – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – taking in the Petite France quarter of pretty canals lined with classic pastel-coloured houses crisscrossed with timbers and with flower-filled window boxes, the famous multi-towered Ponts Couverts, or covered bridges, and, of course, the stunning Gothic Notre-Dame Cathedral, which Victor Hugo memorably described as a ‘veritable tiara of stone’.We return to the ship for lunch and this afternoon you are free to explore Strasbourg further.Alternatively, join our full day excursion, starting with a drive along the legendary Alsace wine route to Colmar, passing through a string of picturesque villages, wine-producing towns and exceptional landscapes. We enjoy all this on a splendidly scenic drive, soon arriving in the medieval town of Colmar, the best-preserved in Alsace. Little known outside the area, it’s a magical concoction of canals, former merchants’ houses, ancient religious buildings and antique shops.The cathedral quarter is surrounded by pastel-coloured half-timbered houses displaying the intricate wrought-iron hanging signs so typical of this area of Europe. We’ve plenty of time here to sit, enjoy a coffee and a lunch at leisure, watch the world go by or just wander.We return to Strasbourg for a guided tour of the Petit France quarter, after which you are free to explore at leisure.We return to the ship for dinner, and afterwards unwind to a medley of live music and songs performed on board by a professional duo.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 with your Cruise Concierge 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 with your Cruise Concierge on board and is payable locally. 

Rüdesheim

Rüdesheim - As we started our journey back downstream, after a leisurely breakfast head up to the sun deck and take in the views from the comfort of a sun lounger or retire to the lounge to chat over a coffee with newly made friends. 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.After a relaxing morning cruise, we arrive in Rüdesheim after lunch for free time to explore – if you imagine a typical Rhine town, then this would be it. Narrow crooked streets lead down to the sweeping river with a backdrop of wooded and vine-covered slopes. Riesling is the speciality grape here and Rüdesheim has many atmospheric Weinstuben where you can sample local wines produced from the surrounding vineyards.Alternatively, you can choose from one of our included experiences:Consider exploring Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet, where you delve into the fascinating realm of automatic musical devices. You'll encounter an incredible assortment of instruments that operate like machines, from intricate, delicate music boxes to a grand orchestrion.If you’d rather embrace nature, you could take a scenic ride in a two-person cable car above the renowned vineyards of Rüdesheim, soaking in the exquisite views of the Rhine River and the idyllic countryside. Once you reach the summit, the scenery becomes even more spectacular, and you can enjoy a leisurely walk around the Niederwald monument, which commemorates the unification of Germany by the Prussians in the 1870s, providing a tranquil spot to gaze upon the town below.On board tonight, we enjoy a culinary spectacular – 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 - a truly memorable experience.

Cologne

03 October 2026

Cologne

Arrival in Cologne - Arrive at the airport for your flight to Düsseldorf or Cologne or take the Eurostar to Brussels from London St Pancras International. On arrival, transfer by coach to your five-star cruise ship moored in picturesque Cologne. The dedicated English-speaking crew welcomes you on board and helps you to your cabin. After settling into your spacious and tastefully furnished accommodation, there’s time to familiarise yourself with this splendid ship.

04 October 2026

Koblenz

05 October 2026

Mainz

06 October 2026

Heidelberg

Heidelberg - Overnight we cruise further downstream, and, after breakfast, we take a short drive to Heidelberg, undoubtedly one of Germany’s most perfect architectural treasures and all the more remarkable because it escaped bombing during the Second World War.Set in an almost idealised German landscape, this jewel sits on the banks of the River Neckar, surrounded by forests and with an imposing castle dominating the church spires and terracotta gabled roofs of the compact Aldstadt – the romantic Old Town. Its 14th-century university, one of the most prestigious in Europe, lends Heidelberg a genteel atmosphere rather similar to its ‘twin’ t...

07 October 2026

Strasbourg

08 October 2026

Rüdesheim

09 October 2026

Cologne

Cologne - This morning, early risers can enjoy phenomenal views as once again we pass through the Rhine Gorge where, in Wagner’s Ring Cycle, the Rhine Maidens guard lost treasure, the ‘Rheingold’. What better way to spend the morning than relaxing on the Sun Deck beneath dramatic rocky, vineyard-topped valley sides dotted with romantic ruined castles. The valley sides dissolve and hills give way to plains as we progress majestically to Cologne.This afternoon you will have a choice of guided tours.You may opt for a guided tour of Cologne’s historic old town, where a knowledgeable local guide will share captivating tales from the city’s past...

10 October 2026

Cologne

Return home

*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.

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 Emily Bronte

Main Restaurant

The ship’s main restaurant is located on the Ruby (middle) Deck and here you will experience not only exceptional first class cuisine, but also the most attentive yet discreet service from the ship’s highly professional crew. So just sit back with a well-deserved glass of wine from the carefully selected wine list and delight in the wonderful elegance of your surroundings; beautifully laid tables for just 4 or 6 guests, crisp linen, deep wool carpets and warm wood panelling abound to offer a delectable dining experience of the highest order.

Excursions

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.

Panorama Lounge and Bar

A lounge in every sense of the word, complete with plenty of comfortable leather armchairs and sumptuous sofas where you can sink into warmly colourful cushions in beautiful quality fabrics with a freshly made cup of tea. A thick wool carpet feels lovely underfoot and the tasteful contemporary lighting above creates a welcoming and refined ambience, further complemented by the discreet and intuitive service resplendent of the finest five-star hotels. So just sit back with your favourite cocktail and take in the truly mesmerising view.

Fitness Centre

On the Emerald (lower) Deck is the fitness centre, perfect for working off all those delicious meals.

MS Emily Bronte Cabins & Suites

Suite

Deluxe Balcony Suites

If you’re looking to really spoil yourself, at a staggering 25 square metres (269 square feet), the world-class Diamond (upper) Deck Deluxe Balcony Suites are for you. Fifty percent larger than standard suites, they allow for an even more generous living area for the ultimate in space and comfort. In addition you will enjoy a private exterior balcony complete with table and chairs - perfect for an ‘al fresco’ breakfast should you wish or just a quiet morning coffee or a pre-dinner ‘sundowner’ whilst watching the world drift by. With the same fittings as standard suites, exquisitely and lavishly appointed to the very highest standard, plus complimentary soft cotton bathrobes and slippers adding the final little touch, this really is the epitome of river cruise luxury!

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

Riviera Plus (2024 and 2025 only)

10% off spa treatment or massage
10% off hairdresser services
Luxury toiletries
Locally inspired gifts
Bottle of champagne
10% off onboard laundry services

Indulge in the luxury of Riviera Plus when you stay in an upper deck cabin or suite. In your well-appointed cabin, you’ll find a range of extras to make your experience extra special.

Facilities

Lounge Area
Shower
Toiletries Provided
Room Service Available
TV
Free Wi-Fi
Coffee Machine
Safe
Hair Dryer
Desk
Queen or Twin Configuration
Suite Benefits
Telephone
Air Conditioning

08001970854