Emerald Cruises river cruising

Sail the iconic rivers of Europe in style

The rivers of Europe have long been the lifeblood of the communities that call them home. As they weave their way through the continent, they connect cities and landscapes with an allure simply unachievable with any other mode of transport.

Our collection of itineraries along the Rhine, Main, Danube, Moselle, Rhône, Saône and Douro, offer an insight into the history, culture and tradition of each magnificent waterway, during thoughtfully crafted adventures designed by our expert journey planners. What were once integral trade routes are now gateways to cultural enlightenment, to be navigated in style on board an Emerald Cruises Star-Ship.

Rhône River

Beginning its journey in the Swiss Alps, the Rhône flows through the heart of France’s gastronomic centre towards the Mediterranean Sea.

■ More than 6,000 wine-growing properties in the Rhône Valley produce, distribute and export world-class wines worldwide.

■ The capital of the Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region, Lyon excels at every level. A UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, excellent cuisine, fine wine and iconic architecture adorn the water’s banks, as it curves elegantly through the centre.

Saône River

An eastern tributary of the Rhône, it flows through Burgundy before meeting the larger river at Lyon.

■ You’ll notice historically important churches and famed vineyards which have prospered from the water’s close proximity.

■ Along its banks, Chalon-sur-Saône’s architectural heritage is dominated by the cathedral and its old timber-framed houses, while being excellently located near the Burgundy wine-making region.

Porto

Douro River

PORTUGAL Vega de Terrón

Salamanca

SPAIN

Douro River

Flanked by vineyards, traditional wineries and the burnt orange roofs of charming villages, Portugal’s Douro winds through a rustic region of simple pleasures.

■ In 1756, the Douro Valley became the first defined wine-producing region in the world.

■ The town of Régua played a huge role in the production and sale of Port wine, so it would only be right to visit a traditional ‘quinta’ to see where it all begins.

FRANCE

Chalon-Sur-Saône

Saône River

Lyon Tournon Rhône River

Avignon Arles Flowing from the Alps to the North Sea, the Rhine has long been a major trade route and is considered pivotal in the industrialisation of Europe.

■ The source of the Rhine is in Switzerland’s Lake Toma, situated 2,340 metres above sea level.

■ The UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge is approximately a 40-mile river valley stretching between Koblenz and Bingen in Germany. Exemplifying

Mother Nature’s spectacular feats, vineyards and fairytale castles dot the green landscape.

Amsterdam

NETHERLANDS

Rhine River

Antwerp Moselle River

Trier Cologne Rhine Gorge GERMANY

Koblenz Rüdesheim Main River

Mannheim Rhine River

Würzburg

Nuremberg Black Regensburg Forest Passau

Basel SWITZERLAND

Moselle River

As it flows through France and Germany, castles tower over wine villages, where some of the best Rieslings grow.

■ It is believed that the Romans planted the first vineyards along the river.

■ Along the Moselle Valley, you’ll spot terraced vineyards as they rise up from the water’s edge, producing some of the best vintages. Fairytale castles and quaint medieval settlements make the region a must-see.

Main River

The 237-mile long river reveals much about the history of the continent.

■ The river is part of Corridor VII, the inland waterway link between the

North Sea and the Black Sea.

■ At the centre of the Franconian wine country, the Bavarian city of Würzburg projects its lavish personality through spectacular architecture, love of art and a lively nightlife.

SLOVAKIA

AUSTRIA Vienna Bratislava Budapest

Danube River

HUNGARY

CROATIA Osijek ROMANIA

Belgrade

SERBIA Bucharest Iron Gates Giurgiu

Danube River

Europe’s second-longest river flows through 10 countries, more than any other in the world, including four capital cities, Budapest, Vienna, Bratislava and Belgrade.

■ The Danube’s enormous volume of water makes it one of central Europe’s most vital sources for fresh drinking water.

■ Divided by the mighty Danube, Budapest was formerly two cities, with Pest on the east and Buda on the west. Now one city with stunning architecture, thermal spa’s and bustling cafés and restaurants waiting to be discovered.

BULGARIA