Overall Trip Highlights

• Stroll through three countries in one trip – Explore the elegance of Switzerland, the charm of Alsace France, and the romance of Germany’s Rhine region in one unforgettable adventure.

• Step inside Strasbourg Cathedral to witness a 16th-century astronomical clock show – A Gothic masterpiece where time comes alive in one of Europe’s most fascinating cathedrals.

• Sail through the Middle Rhine Valley past 20+ hilltop castles – Cruise Europe’s most legendary river surrounded by vineyards, cliffs, and storybook villages.

• Wander pastel villages on the Alsace Wine Route – Visit Riquewihr, Eguisheim, and Kaysersberg—straight out of a fairytale—and enjoy a private vineyard tasting.

• Visit Schloss Drachenburg—Germany’s dreamiest castle – This fairytale palace perched above the Rhine is pure magic, with gardens, turrets, and panoramic vistas.

• Soar over the Rhine by cable car – Ride the Seilbahn in Koblenz for panoramic views and a visit to the historic Ehrenbreitstein Fortress.

• Unwind in luxury at top boutique hotels (4 and 5 Star Hotels)

• Wander cobbled towns that inspired generations of fairytales
  Explore medieval centers in Heidelberg, Koblenz, and Strasbourg, complete with timbered houses, castle ruins, and winding alleyways.

Trip Snapshot: A Storybook Journey – Switzerland, France & Germany

A curated, small-group adventure across three countries filled with fairytale villages, grand cathedrals, riverside towns, and unforgettable wine country charm.

12 Days, 3 Countries, 4 Hotels
All Inclusive Small Group Travel

Day 1 – Basel, Switzerland
• Check into boutique Hotel Märthof in Basel’s Old Town
• Begin your journey with a warm, Swiss-style Welcome Apéro

Day 2 – Basel, Switzerland
• Discover Basel’s cobbled streets, fountains, and 1,000-year-old cathedral on a guided walking tour
• Conquer jet lag with time to relax, stroll, or visit a museum

Day 3 – Travel to Strasbourg, France
• Coach or train transfer through scenic countryside (1.5 hours)
• Check in at a boutique hotel in La Petite France district

Day 4 – Strasbourg, France
• Tour the majestic Strasbourg Cathedral and watch the 300-year-old astronomical clock show
• Cruise beneath timbered houses on a canal boat through medieval locks and historic bridges

Day 5 – Alsace Wine Trail (France)
• Explore the villages of Riquewihr, Eguisheim & Kaysersberg
• Vineyard tasting in the Alsatian countryside

Day 6 – Transfer to Heidelberg, Germany via the Black Forest
• Visit Germany’s tallest waterfall and the world’s largest cuckoo clock in Triberg
• Taste authentic Black Forest cake before arriving in Heidelberg’s castle-topped Old Town

Day 7 – Heidelberg, Germany
• Take a guided tour of the hilltop Heidelberg Castle and view the Great Tun wine barrel
• Walk the Philosopher’s Way for panoramic views over the river and red-roofed town

Day 8 – Travel to Rhine River Valley (Koblenz, Germany)
• Stop in Mainz to see Gutenberg Museum and Cathedral and its original 15th-century printing press
• Check in at a riverside hotel in Koblenz

Day 9 – Rhine River Valley (Koblenz Germany)
• Cruise past castles, vineyards, and Loreley Rock on Europe’s most legendary river
• Take the iconic cable car over the Rhine River, up to the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress

Day 10 – Transfer to Cologne via Konigswinter, Germany
• Explore the breathtaking Schloss Drachenburg, a privately built fairytale castle overlooking the Rhine
• Arrive in Cologne and take a sunset walk to the stunning twin-spired cathedral

Day 11 – Cologne, Germany
• Guided tour of Cologne Cathedral and the Shrine of the Three Kings
• Walk the Love Lock Bridge and visit the Museum Ludwig

Day 12 – Departure from Cologne
• Group breakfast and private airport transfers to CGN

Note: This itinerary serves as a general guide to what we will be doing, seeing, and eating, with the final version provided approximately two weeks prior. The published itinerary is an example and may be adjusted to include accommodations, tours, or restaurants of comparable quality to ensure the best experience.

Day One: Touch Down in Tradition – Old World Charm in Basel

Your European story begins at the Basel–Mulhouse Airport — technically in France, yet just minutes from the heart of Switzerland. After clearing customs, you’ll meet your Beatrice Bradley hostess and fellow travelers before heading into Basel, Switzerland, a city where cobblestone streets, medieval towers, and colorful fountains blend seamlessly with Swiss sophistication.

We’ll check into a boutique hotel in Basel’s Old Town, perfectly positioned for exploring the city’s historic charm and vibrant Rhine River atmosphere. The remainder of the afternoon is yours to settle in, explore at your own pace, or join your hostess for a gentle stroll along the river promenade.

In the evening, we’ll gather for a relaxed Welcome Apéro — a beloved Swiss tradition featuring light bites, wine, and conversation. It’s the perfect introduction to the journey ahead and a wonderful opportunity to begin forming friendships with your fellow travelers.

Highlights

• Arrival in Basel – Transfer from the airport into the heart of Basel’s Old Town.
• Welcome Apéro – Meet your hostess and fellow travelers over drinks and light bites.
• Stay in Basel’s Old Town – Settle into your centrally located boutique hotel.

Fun Fact: Basel sits at the meeting point of Switzerland, France, and Germany, making it one of Europe’s most uniquely positioned cultural crossroads.

Day Two: Cobblestones & Clocktowers – Basel at Your Own Pace

Today is all about balance. You’ve crossed an ocean, entered a new time zone, and now it’s time to gently reset — with fresh air, meaningful moments, and just enough magic to make it unforgettable. We’ll begin the day with a leisurely breakfast at the hotel before setting off on a private guided walking tour through Basel’s beautifully preserved Old Town.

Your local guide will lead you through winding cobblestone lanes lined with painted guild houses, sculpted fountains, and centuries-old churches. Along the way, you’ll visit the stunning Basel Münster, the city’s iconic Gothic cathedral perched above the Rhine River, where sweeping rooftop views and historic charm capture the spirit of Basel.

After the tour, we’ll gather for a relaxed group lunch at a charming local brasserie before enjoying a slower-paced afternoon designed to help you settle into the rhythm of the journey. Spend time resting, shopping, exploring the riverside, or simply soaking in the atmosphere at your own pace.

This evening, we’ll come together once again for a cozy Swiss-style dinner, celebrating your first full day in Europe with warm plates, meaningful conversation, and the familiar camaraderie that makes Beatrice Bradley trips so special.

Highlights

• Guided Walking Tour – Discover Basel’s historic Old Town through medieval lanes, colorful squares, and historic landmarks. 
• Visit the Basel Münster – Step inside Basel’s iconic Gothic cathedral. 
• Relaxed Group Lunch – Enjoy a leisurely meal together at a local brasserie.
• Afternoon at Your Own Pace – Take time to rest, explore, shop, or stroll along the Rhine as you ease into the journey.
• Swiss Dinner Together – Gather for a cozy evening of regional cuisine. 

Fun Fact: Basel’s Old Town is one of the best-preserved medieval city centers in Switzerland, with buildings and alleyways dating back hundreds of years. 

Day Three: Between Borders – From Swiss Elegance to French Romance

After a restful morning in Basel, we begin the next chapter of our journey — crossing the border into France to arrive in one of the most enchanting destinations in all of Europe. Around midday, we’ll depart for a 1.5-hour scenic drive through rolling countryside, winding roads, and charming villages tucked between vineyards and open fields.

By mid-afternoon, we’ll arrive in Strasbourg, the capital of France’s Alsace region and a living fairytale of pastel facades, half-timbered houses, and cobbled canals. Your home for the next three nights is in La Petite France, the historic heart of the city, where every turn feels like a painting come to life.

After checking into your elegant boutique hotel, the remainder of the afternoon is yours to settle in, refresh, or simply admire the storybook surroundings along the canals and narrow streets of Strasbourg.

This evening, we’ll gather for a delicious group dinner on the riverside terrace, where classic French flavors, warm conversation, and glowing canal views welcome you into this next part of the journey.

Highlights

• Scenic Transfer to Strasbourg – Travel through the picturesque countryside of the Alsace region on a comfortable private group transfer.
• Stay in La Petite France – Check into your boutique hotel in Strasbourg’s most charming and historic neighborhood, filled with canals, cafés, and half-timbered homes.
• Evening Dinner Along the Canal – Gather with your fellow travelers for a memorable riverside dinner surrounded by Strasbourg’s romantic historic scenery.

Fun Fact: Strasbourg has changed hands between France and Germany several times throughout history, creating the unique blend of French charm and German influence that defines the city today.

Day Four: Spires, Streets & Storybook Views – Discovering Strasbourg

Today, you’ll find yourself walking through what feels like a fairytale film set — but this city is wonderfully real. Strasbourg is where French romance meets German tradition, creating a place filled with storybook beauty, layered history, and timeless charm. We’ll begin the day with a private guided walking tour led by a local expert who brings the city’s medieval canals, hidden corners, and revolutionary past vividly to life.

Our first stop is the crown jewel of the city: the breathtaking Strasbourg Cathedral. This soaring Gothic masterpiece dominates the skyline with intricate carvings, stained glass, and centuries of history woven into every detail. Inside, we’ll admire the famous astronomical clock, an ornate engineering marvel that has fascinated visitors since the 16th century. At 12:30 PM, you’ll witness the clock’s mechanical figures come alive in a remarkable display that feels almost magical.

Afterward, we’ll enjoy a relaxed group lunch at a charming local brasserie before the afternoon opens up for personal exploration. You may choose to browse boutiques, relax at a café, stroll along the canals, or even climb the cathedral tower for sweeping views across Strasbourg’s rooftops.

As evening approaches, we’ll board an evening canal cruise, gliding through Strasbourg’s historic waterways past locks, medieval towers, flower-lined bridges, and even the striking silhouette of the European Parliament.

Dinner tonight is intentionally relaxed and local — just steps from the hotel — offering one more opportunity to soak in the warm glow of lantern-lit streets and the magic of La Petite France after dark.

Highlights

• Private Guided Walking Tour of Strasbourg – Discover the city’s winding canals, historic squares, and fascinating blend of French and German heritage alongside a local guide.
• Visit Strasbourg Cathedral – Step inside one of Europe’s most stunning Gothic cathedrals and experience the legendary astronomical clock in action.
• Free Time in La Petite France – Spend the afternoon shopping, strolling, relaxing at a café, or exploring Strasbourg at your own pace.
• Evening Canal Cruise – Drift through Strasbourg’s illuminated waterways while admiring medieval architecture, bridges, and riverside scenery.

Fun Fact: Strasbourg Cathedral was once the tallest building in the world, holding the title for over 200 years after its completion in 1439.

Day Five: Vineyards, Villages & Velvet Wines – A Day on the Alsace Wine Trail

Today, we venture into a dreamscape of rolling vineyards, flower-draped balconies, and villages so perfectly preserved they feel lifted straight from the pages of a storybook. The legendary Alsace Wine Route is one of France’s most scenic and celebrated regions, beloved for its half-timbered houses, medieval charm, and exceptional white wines like Riesling and Gewürztraminer.

Throughout the day, we’ll journey through some of the most enchanting villages in the Alsace countryside:

• Riquewihr – Often called one of the most beautiful villages in France, this pastel-colored gem is wrapped in medieval walls and overflowing with floral balconies. Every corner feels like stepping into a painting.
• Eguisheim – Famous for its circular layout and winding cobblestone lanes, this charming village enchants visitors with artisan shops, colorful homes, and a wonderfully relaxed pace of life.
• Kaysersberg – Nestled along a quiet river and framed by vineyards, this fairytale town is watched over by the ruins of an ancient castle. Its romantic atmosphere and storybook beauty make it unforgettable.

Along the way, you’ll have time to browse local boutiques, sample handmade nougat and Alsatian pastries, and discover regional treasures ranging from pottery and linens to locally produced wines.

In the late afternoon, we’ll visit a beautiful vineyard in the foothills of the Vosges Mountains. Here, you’ll tour the cellar, learn about Alsace wine traditions, and enjoy a relaxing wine tasting surrounded by countryside views and rows of vines stretching into the distance.

After returning to Strasbourg, the evening is yours to unwind before gathering once again for a cozy group dinner in the heart of the city.

Highlights

• Full-Day Journey Along the Alsace Wine Route – Travel through one of France’s most picturesque wine regions filled with vineyards, medieval villages, and breathtaking countryside scenery.
• Visit Storybook Villages – Explore the fairytale towns of Riquewihr, Eguisheim, and Kaysersberg.
• Vineyard Visit & Wine Tasting – Discover the traditions of Alsace winemaking during a cellar tour and tasting surrounded by vineyard views.

Fun Fact: The Alsace Wine Route stretches over 100 miles through northeastern France and is one of the oldest and most famous wine trails in the world.

Day Six: Forests, Clocks & Castles – Into Germany We Go

Scenic Transfer from Strasbourg, France to Heidelberg, Germany

This morning, we bid farewell to France and begin our journey into Germany’s Black Forest region — a landscape of dense evergreen forests, charming villages, and rolling hills steeped in legend and tradition. As we make our way toward Heidelberg, we’ll enjoy several memorable stops in the heart of the Schwarzwald.

Our first stop is the famous World’s Largest Cuckoo Clock in Triberg, where you’ll see the giant working clock and its intricate wooden craftsmanship up close. We’ll also visit the beautiful Triberg Waterfalls, Germany’s tallest waterfalls, where gentle walking paths wind through the pine-covered forest.

Before continuing on, we’ll browse the whimsical House of 1000 Clocks, filled with handcrafted cuckoo clocks and Black Forest treasures, and enjoy a slice of authentic Black Forest cake at the historic Hotel Café Adler.

By evening, we’ll arrive in Heidelberg, one of Germany’s most romantic riverside cities, where we’ll gather for a relaxed German group dinner together.

Highlights

• Scenic Transfer into Germany – Travel through the enchanting landscapes of the Black Forest region.
• Visit the World’s Largest Cuckoo Clock – Experience one of Germany’s most iconic cultural landmarks.
• Walk to Triberg Waterfalls – Enjoy gentle forest trails and views of Germany’s tallest waterfalls.
• Explore the House of 1000 Clocks – Browse handcrafted cuckoo clocks and Black Forest souvenirs.
• Arrival in Heidelberg – Settle into one of Germany’s most charming and historic cities.

Fun Fact: Traditional cuckoo clocks have been handcrafted in Germany’s Black Forest region for nearly 300 years.

Day Seven: Castles & Cobblestones – A Storybook Day in Heidelberg

Heidelberg is the kind of place that invites you to slow down and savor every moment. Today, we’ll explore the city’s most iconic landmark — Heidelberg Castle — a majestic hilltop ruin overlooking the river and red-roofed Old Town below. With sweeping views, ivy-covered walls, and the famous Great Tun wine barrel, the castle captures the timeless romance of old-world Germany.

Back in town, we’ll enjoy a scenic walk along the Philosopher’s Way, a peaceful path once favored by poets, scholars, and professors for its inspiring views over the city and Neckar River. The afternoon is yours to wander Heidelberg’s charming Altstadt, browse the lively Hauptstrasse, relax at a café, or simply soak in the city’s fairytale atmosphere.

This evening, we’ll gather for a cozy group dinner in a historic wine tavern, toasting to another unforgettable day surrounded by centuries of history and charm.

Highlights

• Guided Visit to Heidelberg Castle – Explore one of Germany’s most famous castle ruins, complete with panoramic views and the historic Great Tun wine barrel.
• Walk the Philosopher’s Way – Enjoy scenic views over Heidelberg and the river.
• Lunch in Heidelberg’s Altstadt – Enjoy a relaxed midday meal surrounded by cobblestone streets and historic architecture.
• Dinner in a Historic Wine Tavern – End the evening with hearty German cuisine and warm conversation in a traditional setting.

Fun Fact: Heidelberg Castle has been partially in ruins since the 17th century, yet it remains one of the most celebrated and romantic castles in all of Germany.

Day Eight: A River of Legends – From Heidelberg to the Rhine

Today, we journey deeper into the heart of Germany, departing Heidelberg by private coach and traveling toward the legendary Rhine River Valley — a region filled with castles, vineyards, riverside villages, and centuries of history.

Along the way, we’ll stop in the charming riverside city of Mainz, home to the impressive Mainz Cathedral, a stunning Romanesque landmark that has stood at the center of the city for over 1,000 years. We’ll also visit the fascinating Gutenberg Museum, where you’ll learn about the invention of the printing press and see one of the world’s most important innovations that forever changed history.

By afternoon, we’ll arrive in Koblenz, where the Moselle and Rhine Rivers meet. Surrounded by vineyard-covered hills, historic buildings, and sweeping river views, this picturesque city feels like the gateway to Germany’s most romantic landscapes. After checking into our hotel near the waterfront, the evening is yours to relax before gathering together once again for dinner.

Highlights

• Scenic Transfer Through Germany – Travel from Heidelberg into the breathtaking Rhine River Valley.
• Visit Mainz Cathedral – Explore one of Germany’s most important and historic cathedrals.
• Tour the Gutenberg Museum – Discover the story behind the printing press and its impact on the world.
• Arrival in Koblenz – Settle into a charming riverside city where the Moselle meets the Rhine.
• Group Dinner Together – Enjoy another relaxed evening of regional cuisine and conversation with fellow travelers.

Fun Fact: Koblenz is one of Germany’s oldest cities, founded by the Romans over 2,000 years ago at the meeting point of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers.

Day Nine: Castles & Cable Cars – Cruising the Legendary Rhine

Today, we slow down and soak in the beauty of the legendary Rhine River Valley, one of Europe’s most scenic and romantic landscapes. After breakfast overlooking the river, we’ll board a relaxing Rhine River cruise, gliding past vineyard-covered hillsides, storybook villages, and medieval castles perched high above the water. This breathtaking stretch of the Rhine is often considered the most beautiful in all of Germany.

As we cruise through the UNESCO-listed Middle Rhine Valley, you’ll pass charming wine towns, the impressive Rheinfels Castle, and the famous Lorelei Rock, steeped in centuries of legend and folklore.

Back in Koblenz, the adventure continues with a ride aboard the Seilbahn cable car, soaring high above the Rhine River toward the historic Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. From the fortress ramparts, sweeping views stretch across the Rhine and Moselle Rivers, offering one of the most spectacular panoramas in the region.

This evening, we’ll gather once again for a relaxed group dinner, sharing stories from another unforgettable day along the Rhine.

Highlights

• Scenic Rhine River Cruise – Sail through the breathtaking Middle Rhine Valley surrounded by castles, vineyards, and charming riverside villages.
• UNESCO World Heritage Middle Rhine Valley – Experience one of Europe’s most celebrated cultural landscapes.
• Ride the Seilbahn Cable Car – Glide above the Rhine River for panoramic views of Koblenz and the surrounding valley.
• Visit Ehrenbreitstein Fortress – Explore one of Europe’s largest preserved fortresses overlooking the meeting of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers.

Fun Fact: The Rhine River has inspired countless legends, poems, and songs for centuries — especially the tale of the Lorelei, a mythical maiden said to lure sailors with her enchanting voice.

Day Ten: Fortresses & Fairytales – Onward to Cologne (Transfer Day)

Today’s journey blends scenic travel with one of the most magical castles in Europe. After breakfast in Koblenz, we’ll depart by private coach and follow the Rhine north toward the charming town of Königswinter, home to the spectacular Schloss Drachenburg.

Perched high above the river on a forested hillside, this fairytale castle looks as though it belongs in a storybook. Inside, you’ll explore opulent rooms, grand staircases, stained glass windows, and sweeping terraces overlooking the Rhine River Valley below.

After our visit, we’ll continue onward to Cologne, Germany’s vibrant riverside city known for its rich history and lively atmosphere. Once settled into our hotel, we’ll enjoy a sunset stroll to the breathtaking Cologne Cathedral, the city’s iconic Gothic masterpiece and one of Germany’s most famous landmarks.

This evening, we’ll gather for another memorable group dinner together in the heart of Cologne.

Highlights

• Visit Schloss Drachenburg – Explore one of Germany’s most fairytale-like castles.
• Transfer to Cologne – Scenic drive north along the Rhine River.
• Sunset Walk to Cologne Cathedral – Admire the soaring Gothic architecture of Germany’s most iconic cathedral.
• Dinner Together in Cologne – Enjoy a relaxed evening of regional cuisine and conversation with fellow travelers.

Fun Fact: Construction on Cologne Cathedral began in 1248 and took more than 600 years to complete, making it one of the longest-building projects in European history.

Day Eleven: Spires, Bridges & Art Masterpieces – Picasso, Warhol, and Lichtenstein

This morning begins with a guided visit to the magnificent Cologne Cathedral, one of Europe’s most breathtaking Gothic landmarks. Inside, we’ll admire the famous Shrine of the Three Kings, a golden reliquary believed to hold the remains of the biblical Magi, while learning about the cathedral’s fascinating history and remarkable survival through WWII.

Next, we’ll stroll across the iconic Hohenzollern Bridge, known for its thousands of colorful “love locks” and sweeping views over the Rhine River and Cologne skyline.

From there, we’ll visit the renowned Museum Ludwig, home to one of Europe’s finest collections of modern art. Here, you’ll discover works by legendary artists including Picasso, Warhol, and Lichtenstein, alongside striking contemporary pieces from around the world.

This evening, we’ll gather for a lively farewell dinner, celebrating the unforgettable memories, friendships, and experiences shared throughout our journey together.

Highlights

• Guided Tour of Cologne Cathedral – Explore one of Europe’s greatest Gothic cathedrals, including the famous Shrine of the Three Kings.
• Walk Across Hohenzollern Bridge – Take in Rhine River views and the bridge’s iconic collection of love locks.
• Visit Museum Ludwig – Discover masterpieces by Picasso, Warhol, Lichtenstein, and other influential modern artists.
• Farewell Dinner in Cologne – Celebrate the final evening together with great food, conversation, and memories from the journey.

Fun Fact: Cologne Cathedral is home to the largest swinging church bell in the world, weighing more than 24 tons.

Day Twelve: Auf Wiedersehen – Departure Day

After a final breakfast at the hotel, transfers will take each guest to Cologne Bonn Airport (CGN). You’ll leave with a suitcase full of treasures and a heart full of connection, beauty, and bold new memories.

Last Transfer at 10 AM