2014 - APT Europe River Cruising

Indulge in the historic opulence of World Heritage-listed Sanssouci Palace in Potsdam cruise, 435 metres above sea level. Cross the European Continental Divide then arrive in Nuremberg. Here, perhaps visit a range of World War II sites, including the Reich Party Rally Grounds and Nuremberg Trials Courthouse. Or take a medieval tour and see the 900 year-old ramparts that surround the city, the Imperial Castle and more. After your selected tour, sample some Nuremberg beer and sausages, or enjoy BLD freshly baked gingerbread with coffee. THE MEANDERING MAIN RIVER Day 15. Bamberg. This morning you'll travel to World Heritage-listed Bamberg, one of the few German cities that wasn't destroyed by bombs during World War II. After exploring the city on a walking tour, visit a traditional Bamberg beer haus and enjoy some of the local brew, compliments of APT. BLD Day 16. Würzburg, Freedom of Choice. In Würzburg, you may like to embark on a tour that will take you to the Resi ential Palace and to d a local wine cellar for a wine tasting. Or travel to Rothenburg on the Romantic Road, where a tour includes the German Christmas Museum. Another option is a bicycle tour through Würzburg and its lovely surrounds.BLD Day 17. Miltenberg. After an onboard glass-blowing demonstration, disembark in Miltenberg, a pretty Franconian town spared from the destruction of the Second World War. You're invited to discover the local way of life on a unique village experience, exploring quaint shops and mingling with locals. BLD 88 CRUISING THE LEGENDARY RHINE Day 18. Rüdesheim, Freedom of Choice, Andernach, A Royal Invitation. In Rüdesheim today, ride the Winzerexpress mini-train to your preferred activity. Perhaps tour Siegfried's Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum. Or take a ride in a gondola for views over the Rhine Valley. Alternatively, explore the Rhine Valley wine region during a tour and wine tasting at a local winery. Later, re-join your ship and cruise through the Rhine Gorge on what is known as the Rhine's most beautiful stretch. Arrive in Andernach, and head to the Burg Namedy castle for a decadent evening of royal delights. Today, Princess Heide von Hohenzollern has opened the doors of her castle exclusively for APT guests. Enjoy free time to wander about the castle's opulent rooms, hidden nooks and manicured gardens. Later, savour a lavish banquet.BLD Day 19. Cologne, Freedom of Choice. Arrive in Cologne today and enjoy a choice of included sightseeing options. Perhaps select from a range of walking tours, or take a bicycle tour across the German countryside to Bonn, the birthplace of music composer Beethoven.BLD Day 20. Amsterdam, Freedom of Choice. In Amsterdam, perhaps take a canal cruise and admire the passing 17th-century homes, churches and merchant houses. Then visit Amsterdam's famed flower market. Or visit the Van Gogh Museum, home to the world's largest collection of Van Gogh paintings. Another option is an excursion to the picturesque village of Zaanse Schans, famous for its windmills. Tonight, enjoy a Farewell Dinner on board, then perhaps experience the city's nightlife at your leisure. BLD DISEMBARK CRUISE, TRAVEL TO PARIS Day 21. Amsterdam, Disembark Ship, Paris. After breakfast, disembark your ship for the final time. 21 Day (EUMCRBA21) guests depart the tour with a transfer to the airport. Remaining guests will travel by coach through Belgium and across France to Paris. Upon arrival, enjoy the evening at your leisure. Three Night Grand City Stay: Paris, Hotel du Collectionneur Arc de Triomphe.B THE ENCHANTING FRENCH CAPITAL Day 22. Paris. During a sightseeing tour of Paris today, take a trip to the second level of the Eiffel Tower where sweeping views await. This evening, enjoy a memorable meal and a spectacular show at the Moulin Rouge, the iconic Parisian cabaret made famous by the paintings of Toulouse Lautrec. BD Day 23. Paris, Freedom of Choice. Today, explore a different side of Paris. Perhaps take a culinary walking tour, or visit the historic neighbourhood of Montmartre and see Sacré-Cœur Basilica. Alternatively, join a game of Pétanque, a local favourite. Later, enjoy the rest of the day at leisure. B Day 24. Depart Paris. After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your onward flight. B

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