Rhine Cruise to Switzerland with Glacier Express Extension

Rhine Cruise to Switzerland with Glacier Express Extension - MS Emily Brontë

10 nights - 22 May 2026

MS Emily Bronte | Rhine

CALL NOW

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

~~WAS £3948pp~~ From £3790PP

Ruby Deck Suite

~~WAS £4498pp~~ From £4318PP

Diamond Deck Suite

~~WAS £4698pp~~ From £4510PP

Diamond Deck

~~WAS £5448pp~~ From £5230PP

Select Cabins

Emerald Deck Suite

~~WAS £3948pp~~ From £3790PP

Ruby Deck Suite

~~WAS £4498pp~~ From £4318PP

Diamond Deck Suite

~~WAS £4698pp~~ From £4510PP

Diamond Deck

~~WAS £5448pp~~ From £5230PP

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

Request a quote Let us call you back

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.

Itinerary

List Timeline

Cologne

Arrival in Cologne - On arrival, transfer by coach to your cruise ship moored in Cologne. 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

22 May 2026

Cologne

More Info

Day 2

23 May 2026

Koblenz

More Info

Day 3

24 May 2026

Rüdesheim

More Info

Day 4

25 May 2026

Speyer

More Info

Day 5

26 May 2026

Strasbourg

More Info

Day 6

27 May 2026

Breisach

More Info

Day 7

28 May 2026

Lucerne

More Info

Day 8

29 May 2026

Chur

More Info

Day 9

30 May 2026

Zermatt

More Info

Day 10

31 May 2026

Zermatt

More Info

Day 11

01 June 2026

Zermatt

More Info

Koblenz

Koblenz - As you wake to a sumptuous breakfast, the delights of this river cruise begin to emerge as we drift past the first rolling hills of the Rhine Valley.The forested Siebengebirge – Seven Mountains – a cluster of ancient volcanic hills that inspired many of the Brothers Grimm’s legends, including ‘Snow White’, act as the overture for even more dramatic scenery upstream.We cruise past 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.Pretty waterfront towns and carefully tended vineyards come into view as we glide gently into our mooring to visit delightful Koblenz for a guided tour.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.As you wander, historic buildings appear seemingly at every turn; see a former mint, the Four Towers – 17th-century houses with striking turrets set at a crossroads – and many fascinating squares and churches, including the 9th-century Basilica of Saint Kastor.Wherever you wander you’re never far from a riverbank, and it’s worth crossing the 14th-century stone Balduin Bridge across the Moselle for fine views back across the spires of the Altstadt.Tonight, enjoy a meticulously prepared dinner on board, and afterwards, delight in the upbeat sounds of Rhenish folk music with a live performance of traditional instruments.Personalise your holiday -Cable car ride to Ehrenbreitstein fortress and visitDuration: At leisurePrice: From £19pp (2025) & from £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.

Rüdesheim

Rhine Gorge & Rüdesheim - Slipping our mooring at Koblenz we proceed upstream on the Rhine and soon encounter the impressive Marksburg Castle, a fortress dating back to the 13th-century.We then weave through the huge looping bend – one of the most impressive on the river – at Boppard, a wonderfully picturesque town known as the ‘Pearl of the Rhine’.Journeying further, you explore the most famous of all the river’s reaches and a real highlight of the cruise, the dramatic Rhine Gorge: steep vineyards give way to almost vertical rocky outcrops towering more than 600 feet above the sweeping valley sides. Sailing past Saint Goar and the many ruined castles, there’s a real sense of the myths surrounding this historic river coming alive around you.After lunch we moor in Rüdesheim, a classic Rhine wine village with crooked houses sloping down from wooded hillsides and terraced vineyards.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 from 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.After dinner this evening, another sumptuous affair prepared by your chef, maybe sample a small Asbach – the famous brandy distilled in Rüdesheim – while watching the last of the ferries crossing the river in the moonlight glow.Personalise your holiday -Wine tasting at a local wineryDuration: 1hr 30 minsPrice: £22Before we sit down to another delicious dinner onboard our five-star ship, visit 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 two weeks before you’re set to depart to add the above experience to your booking before departure. Minimum numbers apply.

Speyer

Speyer - Still sailing upstream, the landscape becomes much wider and flatter, with gently rolling hills and vineyards that are home to the Liebfraumilch wines. Occasionally the excited chatter of birdlife breaks out as we pass oxbow lakes, long deserted by the river flow, which are now havens for over a hundred bird species.Today we berth in historic Speyer, founded by the Celts and one of Germany’s oldest cities, celebrated for its illustrious past, for an afternoon walking tour. The breath-taking Imperial Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is among the largest Romanesque churches in the world; it’s also one of the finest. Its beautiful four-roomed crypt is the resting place of many Holy Roman emperors and German kings.Another landmark is the magnificent neo-Gothic Gedächtniskirche, built at the turn of the 20th-century to commemorate the 1529 ‘Protestation at Speyer’, a significant event when a group of Martin Luther’s followers protested against his imperial ban – henceforth Luther’s religious followers were known as ‘Protestants’.There’s free time to explore here before stepping back on board for another splendid dinner.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 after or instead of the walking tour of Speyer.Please contact us at least two weeks before you’re set to depart to add the above experience to your booking before departure.

Strasbourg

Strasbourg - This morning we cruise gently upstream, passing through two spectacular locks, whose elaborate engineering never ceases to fascinate. Why not find a comfortable chair and catch up on some reading, play chess or watch the rolling kaleidoscope of scenery from the Sun Deck?We soon arrive in France and moor in Strasbourg, capital of the Alsace region. This afternoon we have a walking tour of its picturesque Old Town, bisected by canals and made up of a maze of narrow streets lined with timber-framed houses and sculptured portals.Unforgettable sites 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.After another delicious dinner on board, you can retire to the lounge to enjoy tonight's live performance of popular music spanning the years by a highly talented violin soloist.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.

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. This vibrant university city in southwest Germany’s Black Forest, is home to a medieval old town, crisscrossed by picturesque brooks. 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. Afterwards, you can enjoy a little free time to explore before heading back to the ship.Back on board 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. Overnight we will continue to Switzerland and our final stop, Basel.

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.

Chur

Day 1 of extension - Chur - We leave our cruise ship and take the train to historic Chur at the heart of Graubünden, the largest canton in Switzerland. As we leave behind Basel’s city skyline the scenery becomes ever more picturesque – a wild landscape of deep isolated valleys, sheer rocky summits and thick pine forests. Glittering sunlight pours from the blue skies above on to sparkling glaciers oozing from the lofty summits; this is truly some of the most awe-inspiring mountain scenery in the world.We arrive in Switzerland’s oldest city, nestled in a forested valley with the Alps rising like an amphitheatre around it. Chur has been inhabited for over 5,000 years; the Celts, Romans, Ostrogoths and Franks have all ruled here due to its strategic position as a gateway to high alpine passes and important trade routes.Its characterful Old Town is a maze of winding cobbled alleys, handsome townhouses, refreshing fountains and quiet courtyards. Set high above the streets, its rising spires puncturing the sky, is the magnificent Cathedral of Saint Mary’s Ascension, a fascinating mix of Gothic and Romanesque styles with a fantastically ornate interior.Officially trilingual, Chur has a distinctly cosmopolitan, almost Mediterranean ambience. It’s a centre for outdoor activities such as hiking and skiing, but also a spot to indulge in the more leisurely pastimes of eating and window-shopping – its streets are lined with restaurants, boutiques and traditional shops.If you’re feeling hungry, look out for the regional speciality of Bündnerfleisch – prime beef traditionally air-dried in the eaves of a barn or open attic, then carved into wafer-thin slices. It’s usually enjoyed with other cold meats and washed down with a cooling glass of the purest local mineral water. For something stronger, enjoy a refreshing drink in your choice of the city’s many atmospheric bars and cafés.There’s free time to explore the city at your leisure before continuing to Davos for a one night stay.

Zermatt

Day 2 of extension - Glacier Express - After breakfast we embark on an unforgettably scenic and spectacular rail journey – the legendary Glacier Express. Our starting point at Chur is the lowest point of the route to Zermatt and the iconic Matterhorn, Switzerland’s most famous mountain and a ‘must-see’ highlight for many. The train first winds its way through the ‘Swiss Grand Canyon’, a dramatic section of the Upper Rhine where the river has carved deep into an eerie landscape of white rocks, climbing ever higher along the Oberalp Pass to a height of 6,673 feet.At this altitude the mountain landscape becomes ever more eye-catching – lush wild flower meadows are studded with tiny shepherds’ shelters, dense forests sweep up scree-covered mountainsides and snow-capped mountains glisten in the sunshine. You could be lucky and catch a glimpse of an elusive ibex or chamois negotiating a rocky ledge, or even a golden eagle soaring high above.It’s impossible not to marvel at the engineering achievements as the track traverses jaw-dropping precipices and snakes into tunnels hewn through mountain walls into the Upper Rhône Valley, with dramatic views at every turn. We pass countless torrential mountain streams and tumbling waterfalls before arriving at the legendary village of Zermatt, nestling at the foot of the instantly recognisable Matterhorn.Zermatt itself is iconically Swiss. It’s a car-free jumble of chalets and wooden farm huts strewn across the valley floor, surrounded by lush pastures alive with the sound of cowbells, while dramatic cable cars and soaring footpaths weave ever upwards to a majestic amphitheatre of lofty summits. Overseeing it all is the ultimate attraction in this alpine wonderland – the mighty, mythical Matterhorn. Seeing this pyramid-shaped symbol of Switzerland in its unrivalled glory is truly one of life’s ‘wow’ moments and it doesn’t disappoint!Please note that the journey is scheduled to take place on the Glacier Express from Chur to Zermatt; however, alternative routes or services may be used depending on operational availability.

Zermatt

Day 3 of extension - Zermatt - Today you may wish to explore Zermatt further under your own steam, or you can take Europe’s highest open-air cog railway to the Gornergrat for more stupendous vistas.This extraordinary train service departs from Zermatt and climbs through a glorious l...

*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.

22 May 2026

Cologne

23 May 2026

Koblenz

24 May 2026

Rüdesheim

25 May 2026

Speyer

26 May 2026

Strasbourg

27 May 2026

Breisach

28 May 2026

Lucerne

29 May 2026

Chur

30 May 2026

Zermatt

31 May 2026

Zermatt

01 June 2026

Zermatt

Return home

[]

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