Welcome to Helsinki, the capital of Finland and surrounded by more than 300 islands. Upon arrival, be met and transferred to your premium hotel located in the city centre. This evening, gather in the hotel restaurant to meet your Great Rail Journeys Escort and fellow travellers for a Welcome Dinner.

After breakfast at the hotel, embark on an exploration of Helsinki, a city that effortlessly blends history with modernity. Begin in the oldest part of the city with a visit to Senate Square surrounded by majestic neoclassical buildings, dominated by the green-domed Helsinki Cathedral overlooking the square. Then, travel to the Olympic Stadium, the centre stage of the 1952 Summer Olympics, to enjoy its architecture up close. Continue exploring the city's contemporary architecture including Helsinki University Library, the modernist National Opera House, and the abstract Sibelius Monument, created from 600 hollow steel pipes, honouring celebrated composer Jean Sibelius. Marvel at the astounding Temppeliaukio Church, resembling a giant space ship that's crashed into the city centre.

You'll then enjoy a guided cruise admiring the beautiful archipelago and shorelines of Helsinki. During the cruise, you'll pass the historic Suomenlinna Sea Fortress, the impressive fleet of ice-breaker vessels, and the City Zoo located, on Korkeasaari Island. The remainder of the day is free for you to explore Helsinki independently, perhaps finding an establishment to enjoy dinner this evening.

This morning, board a local ferry and glide across the calm waters of the Gulf of Finland to Tallinn in neighbouring Estonia. Arrive in the picturesque capital and head to your hotel for check-in. In your free time this afternoon, perhaps venture to the historic Old Town to stroll along its cobbled streets and admire the medieval architecture, appreciating why its often considered one of the best-preserved Old Towns in Europe, and recognised by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site.

Tonight, savour your first taste of authentic Estonian cuisine at the hotel's restaurant.

After breakfast, depart your hotel for a guided sightseeing tour of Tallinn by coach to enjoy the city's medieval gems. Marvel at the magnificent Alexander Nevsky Cathedral adorned with flowing arches and topped with five onion domes — it's one of the city's most distinguishing sights. Head to the Toompea district in Tallinn's medieval Old Town, surrounded by charming historic buildings, including the pink-coloured parliament, and the stark white of 13th-century St Mary's Cathedral, also known as the Dome Church. In Town Hall Square, gaze upon the oldest surviving town hall in northern Europe, before continuing to view the House of the Blackheads, formerly known as the House of the Brotherhood of Black Heads — a professional association of ship owners, merchants and foreigners dating to the 14th century. The building is the only example of preserved Renaissance architecture in Tallinn. Your medieval experience in Tallinn concludes with a glimpse into life behind the 'iron curtain' with a guided tour of the KGB Museum, featuring fascinating exhibits of historical relics.

Tallinn offers a rich culinary scene. Tonight in your free time, explore the many restaurants, cafes and bars on offer for a culinary adventure, perhaps sampling an elk stew or a dish of wild boar.

Uncover Estonia's fascinating seafaring history, starting with a visit to the Estonian Maritime Museum at Seaplane Harbour. This innovative complex is housed in a historic seaplane hangar and showcases Estonia's naval history through artefacts, model ships, an authentic Russian submarine, icebreaker, and a seaplane.

The remainder of the day is free for you to explore Tallinn at your own pace. You might wish to grab a table at one of the cafes overlooking the town square and experience a taste of local life in Estonia's capital. This evening, you have the opportunity to dine independently at one of the city's many eateries or, perhaps, experience the unique medieval flavours served up at Olde Hansa restaurant, complemented by 14th century-style entertainment.

This morning, transfer to Tallinn's railway station for your scenic train journey to Riga via the border town of Valga, winding your way through lush forests dotted with quaint towns. Switch trains in Valga and continue your journey to Latvia, bound for its beautiful capital, Riga. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel on the edge of the Old Town for check-in. This evening, delight in Latvian cuisine at a local restaurant for dinner.

Unlock the history of Riga on a tour of the capital, home to approximately a third of the country's population. Travel to Riga's Old Town and see the ornate House of the Blackheads. Similar to the one in neighbouring Tallinn, the building acted as a meeting point for the city's merchants and visiting traders. Stroll along the cobbled streets of the historic quarter, admiring its charming medieval buildings, including a trio of fairytale-like houses known as the Three Brothers. Enter Riga's 13th-century cathedral and explore what is considered the largest cathedral among the Baltic states.

With a free afternoon, you could choose to stroll along Albert Street, marvelling at the wealth of Art Nouveau buildings. Alternatively, stumble upon local gems on your independent exploration, perhaps finding a cosy place to enjoy authentic local cuisine for dinner.

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for an included flight to Amsterdam, where your river ship awaits. Upon arriving in Amsterdam, you'll be met and transferred to your ship for embarkation. If time allows, you can explore this vibrant city, renowned for its stunning canals and relaxed charm. Later this evening, join your Cruise Director and fellow travellers for a Welcome Reception on board.

Board a glass-top boat and glide through Amsterdam’s maze of waterways with a local guide, before enjoying some time at leisure. Afterwards, drive to Utrecht to rejoin your vessel for tonight’s special Gala Welcome Dinner.

Learn how the twin spires of Cologne’s famous cathedral, the  Kölner  Dom, took over six centuries to complete as you cruise into this picturesque city. Disembark and take the short drive to  Brühl for your Insider Experience. This afternoon, enjoy free time to explore the centre of Cologne at your leisure.

Insider Experience – Augustusburg Palace in Germany

Explore the former residence of Archbishop-Elector Clemens August, the World Heritage-listed Augustusburg Palace in Brühl. Listen to enthralling stories and enjoy a walk through the stunning landscaped parks and gardens between the castle and the Falkenlust hunting lodge. The palace and the lodge are some of the finest examples of rococo architecture from 18th century Germany.

Experience a true holiday highlight as you cruise through the Rhine Gorge, known to be the most beautiful section of the Rhine River. Your ship docks in Rüdesheim, where the Winzerexpress mini road train will take you through the town to Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum. Here, discover one of the most beautiful collections of automated musical instruments in all of Germany.

Discover  Miltenberg  today, exploring this well-preserved town’s half-timbered buildings dating from the 15th to 18th centuries.

Insider Experience – Miltenberg Culinary Tour

Gain a glimpse into local life in Miltenberg as you embark on a culinary walking tour. Sample regional specialties at a local butcher and baker before finishing with a tasting at a local distillery.

Board a coach and travel through the rolling hills to Würzburg. Visit the magnificent Würzburg Residence, a baroque palace renowned for its opulent interior, and stroll through the beautiful Court Garden. Later, you may choose to enjoy an optional visit to Rothenburg, a medieval fairytale town.

Enhance Your Journey – Rothenburg Excursion

Depart from Würzburg for an excursion to medieval Rothenburg, a beautiful walled town located on the Romantic Road in Franconia.

Spend a leisurely morning cruising along the last stretch of the Main River before arriving at Bamberg. Enjoy a guided tour, during which you’ll gaze upon such sights as the Old Town Hall and the Bamberg Cathedral, followed by some free time to explore. Later this evening, your ship will reach the Main-Danube Canal.

Explore Nuremberg, once the site of Hitler’s infamous rallies. Wander its cobblestone streets, discovering hidden boutiques and artisan stores. Finish your day cruising through the Main-Danube Canal, crossing Europe’s Continental Divide via its 16 stair-step locks.

Having reached the Danube River overnight, Regensburg awaits. Spend the day in this charming city, docked in the heart of town, and join a guided walking tour to explore its major sights. Later, perhaps take an optional tour to Kuchlbauer’s World of Beer in Abensberg. Enjoy a guided tour of the family-owned brewery and see The Kuchlbauer Tower, designed by Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser.

Insider Experience – Bavarian Evening on Board

This evening, enjoy an authentic Bavarian experience on board as you sample local beer and snacks, accompanied by traditional folk music, song and dance. 

Enhance Your Journey – Kuchlbauer's World of Beer Brewery Visit

Tour Kuchlbauer’s World of Beer in Abensberg and see the Kuchlbauer Tower. Available on cruises from Amsterdam to Budapest only.

As you enjoy your breakfast, arrive in the ‘Three Rivers City’ of Passau, where the Ilz and Inn rivers join the Danube. Perhaps join an optional tour to  Český  Krumlov in the Czech Republic, or travel to Salzburg. Alternatively, stay on board and enjoy a relaxing sailing day to Linz.

Enhance Your Journey – Český Krumlov Visit

Enjoy a fascinating day excursion to the city of Český Krumlov in the Czech Republic, home to more than 300 historical buildings.

Enhance Your Journey – Salzburg Sights

Take a trip through the stunning scenery of Austria. Visit Mondsee, where you may recognise the famous Wedding Church from ‘The Sound of Music’. Continue to Salzburg and be guided through the town Mozart called home. Enjoy some free time to explore at your leisure before returning to your ship.

Enhance Your Journey – Passau Culinary Tour

In the beautiful city of Passau, enjoy a guided walking tour, taking in the historic sites as you roam the cobblestone lanes of the Altstadt. You'll also get to sample a variety of sweet and savoury local specialties.

After cruising into Austria, dock in Melk for a tour of Melk Abbey with a local guide. Since 1089, this Benedictine monastery has stood atop a rocky outcrop, offering commanding views of the Danube. Later, cruise through the picturesque Wachau Valley to Dürnstein, a town overlooked by the hilltop ruins of the castle where legendary King Richard the Lionheart was kept as a prisoner in the 12th century. You have the afternoon free to explore the cobbled streets, town houses and taverns of the town. Perhaps join an optional tour to taste some of the region’s wine. 

Enhance Your Journey – Wine Tasting

Visit Dürnstein Abbey, where you’ll savour a glass of the local Grüner Veltliner or riesling produced in the region, as well as delicious brandy.

In Vienna, join a walking tour of St Stephen’s Cathedral, the Graben, Hofburg Palace and the Albertina. Afterwards, you may enjoy visiting the Naschmarkt. This evening, perhaps enjoy an optional concert featuring music from Mozart to The Sound of Music.

Enhance Your Journey – Mozart and Strauss Concert

Enjoy a Mozart and Strauss Concert in one of Vienna’s palaces or concert venues, followed by an evening drive around the Ringtrasse.

Today is yours to explore Vienna. Perhaps visit the Hofburg area and the Imperial Treasury. Otherwise, enjoy an optional excursion to Schönbrunn  Palace, or head to Bratislava. Later, set sail for Hungary. Tonight, celebrate your river cruise with a Captain’s Farewell Dinner.

Enhance Your Journey – Schönbrunn Palace

Delve into royal history as you wander the lavishly furnished rooms and beautiful gardens of the famous Schönbrunn Palace.

Enhance Your Journey – Bratislava City Tour

Travel from Vienna into Slovakia and on to its capital, Bratislava. There, explore the charming Old Town on a guided tour.

Today, enjoy views of one of the Danube’s most enchanting riverside cities as your ship drifts right into the heart of Hungary’s capital. After breakfast, a local guide will lead you through Budapest.  Later, you may wish to join an optional tour to discover the Hospital in the Rock Bunker Museum.

Insider Experience - Hungarian State Opera performance

Visit the Hungarian State Opera for a guided tour. Enjoy a glass of sparkling wine as you're treated to a private opera recital.

Enhance Your Journey – Hospital in the Rock Tour

Tour this museum, once a World War II hospital, located in the caves beneath Buda Castle. This first-aid shelter was constructed in 1941 to withstand the blasts of bombing.

After breakfast, disembark and transfer to the airport for your onward flight.