Tour Introduction
Experience the very best of Europe on this unforgettable Sisterhood adventure, combining the romance of Paris with a luxurious river cruise through the heart of the continent. Spend four nights discovering the magic of Paris before boarding the elegant Emerald Luna for a spectacular 15-day voyage along Europe's most iconic waterways. Explore charming medieval towns, grand capitals and picture-perfect villages across France, Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary and the Netherlands, with expertly guided sightseeing, wonderful dining experiences and plenty of free time to soak up the local atmosphere. With ready-made friends for company and your Sisterhood Hostess by your side, this is European river cruising at its very best.Highlights
Ready-Made Friends for Company – Travel with a wonderful group of like-minded women and enjoy the friendship and camaraderie that Sisterhood tours are renowned for.
4 Night Stay in Paris – Immerse yourself in the romance and elegance of Paris, with your Sisterhood Hostess on hand to assist with sightseeing and free time.
Welcome Dinner in Paris – Get to know your fellow Sisters over a delightful welcome dinner.
Guided Walking Tour with our French Sisterhood Guide – Discover Paris through the eyes of a knowledgeable local guide as you uncover both iconic sights and hidden gems.
Paris City Sights Tour – Visit world-famous landmarks including Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Opera House and the iconic Champs-Élysées.
15 Day Luxury River Cruise aboard the Emerald Waterways Luna – Relax and unwind as you cruise Europe's most scenic waterways in the comfort and elegance of your luxury floating hotel.
Captain's Welcome Reception – Celebrate the beginning of your river cruise with drinks and a warm welcome from the Captain.
Explore 17 Cities, Towns and Villages – Discover an incredible collection of Europe's most beautiful destinations with included guided sightseeing throughout your journey.
Amsterdam Canal Cruise – Cruise Amsterdam's famous canals and admire the city's unique architecture from a different perspective.
Walking Tour of Cologne – Explore one of Germany's oldest cities, renowned for its impressive Gothic cathedral and vibrant atmosphere.
Walking Tour of Miltenberg – Wander the charming cobblestone streets of one of Germany's best-preserved medieval towns.
City Sights of Würzburg – Discover this beautiful Bavarian city, celebrated for its Baroque architecture and fascinating history.
City Sights of Bamberg – Explore this UNESCO World Heritage city, famous for its medieval streets and rich brewing traditions.
Tour of Melk's Benedictine Abbey – Visit one of Austria's most spectacular abbeys, perched high above the Danube River.
City Sights Tour of Vienna – Experience the grandeur of Austria's elegant imperial capital.
City Sights Tour of Bratislava – Discover the charming Old Town and rich history of Slovakia's capital city.
City Sights Tour of Budapest – Explore the magnificent city known as the Pearl of the Danube.
Captain's Gala Dinner – Enjoy an elegant evening of fine dining and celebration onboard.
1 Night Stay in Budapest – Complete your European adventure with an overnight stay in the magnificent Hungarian capital.
Traditional Hungarian Dinner – Experience authentic Hungarian cuisine and local hospitality.
Plenty of Free Time – Enjoy time to explore, shop, relax or simply soak up the atmosphere at your own pace.
Optional Experiences – Personalise your journey with a selection of optional excursions available to pre-book (subject to availability).
Please Note: During the river cruise, included sightseeing excursions are shared with fellow Emerald Waterways guests. Your Sisterhood Hostess will accompany our group throughout the journey, providing support and assistance every step of the way.
Inclusions
- Personally escorted from Melbourne by a Sisterhood Tour Hostess who is on hand to ensure your tour is a memorable one
- Return economy airfares from Melbourne, including taxes (upgrades available on request)
- Transportation throughout (some shared)
- Services of a Cruise Tour Director
- All sightseeing as per detailed itinerary (shared sightseeing except for our included Paris walking tour)
- 4-night stay in Paris, including breakfast daily
- 15 Day Luxury River Cruise on board the Exclusive Emerald Star Ship
- All port charges and taxes
- All tipping and gratuities included (except when enjoying free time)
- All meals as per our itinerary, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner whilst cruising
- Complimentary wine, beer and spirits when dining onboard Emerald Star Ship
- 1 Night post cruise stay in Budapest
- Willing to Share Option
- Meet and Greet prior to departure via Zoom
Optional Activities are available to pre-book (Listed in the itinerary and subject to availability)
Notice
Cabins Advertised below (please call of other cabin options - subject to availability)
Cabin Category Information (click here for photos)
Cat A - Horizon Deck - Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite - 180sq feet (Floor to Ceiling Window with Open Air System)
Cat E - Riviera Deck - 162sq feet (Pillbox Window)
Talk to us for advice on the best option for you.
Our Evergreen Emerald Star Ship features the following:
Sun Deck with comfortable Deck Chairs
Sky Barbeque
Golf Putting Green
Giant Tic Tac Toe
Club Swimming Pool, Bar & Evening Cinema
Retractable Roof
Al Fresco Terrace
Horizon Bar
Reflections Restaurant
Fitness Room
Massage/Beauty Centre
Hairdresser
Walking Track
Maximum 182 passengers
Moderate Fitness Rating - A moderate level of fitness is required for these tours due to the length and/or overall physical demands of our itinerary. You can expect to walk more than 10,000 steps daily on more challenging terrain and longer periods. You must be capable of boarding and disembarking coaches, trains and boats unaided and at times handle your luggage. For more information on our physical ratings, please click here
Tour Variations
Emerald Waterways will take all reasonable efforts to operate the tour as close as possible to your itinerary however we may be required to change or vary your itinerary for reasons outside our control, these circumstances may include but are not limited to: high or low water levels, weather conditions, flooding, lock closures, unscheduled vessel maintenance, national or local holidays, strikes, civil disturbances or other force majeure events. These circumstances may result in a substitution (at the nearest reasonable standard) of another vessel, accommodation or motorcoach for all or part of your itinerary, where we make a variation to the itinerary, we are not liable to you for such variations
For additional information about this tour, CLICK HERE
Itinerary
Day 1 - Monday 2 August 2027
Melbourne to Paris (Meals Inflight)
Welcome to your next Sisterhood adventure!
Join your Sisterhood Tour Hostess and fellow travellers at the designated meeting point at Melbourne Airport for our flight to France.
Sit back, relax and enjoy the inflight entertainment and hospitality of our airline as we head towards Paris.
Day 2 - Tuesday 3 August 2027
Paris (D)
Ohhh La La! Welcome to Paris! Upon our arrival, we'll be met and transferred to our hotel, where the remainder of our day is free. Paris is a dream destination for sisters, offering elegance, culture, and adventure. Throughout our 4-night stay, we'll have the opportunity to stroll the many charming streets, explore world-class museums, shop in chic boutiques, and indulge in exquisite pastries. From the Eiffel Tower’s sparkle to the cozy cafés, every moment in Paris is filled with beauty, connection, and inspiration.
Tonight we'll get together and enjoy a welcome dinner at a nearby restaurant.
4 Night Stay - Pullman Paris Montparnasse (or similar)
Day 3 - Wednesday 4 August 2027
Paris (B)
Good morning, Paris. Today, as a special highlight, we'll enjoy our own private walking tour of Paris with our local French Sisterhood hostess, who has some surprises up her sleeve.
This evening, back at our hotel, we are met by our Cruise Director and other cruise travellers for a welcome drink and reception at our hotel. Afterwards, we'll have dinner at a local cafe/restaurant.
Tonight there's the opportunity to enjoy a Paris by Night tour. Paris is stunning at night, and our private tour will showcase the many beautifully lit landmarks of Paris, including the Eiffel Tower and the Champs-Élysées. (Allow approx EUR50 per person ** Subject to Numbers) This option can be booked with your Sisterhood hostess upon arrival in Paris.
Overnight - Pullman Paris Montparnasse (or similar)
Day 4 - Thursday 5 August 2027
Paris (B)
Today is yours to explore Paris at your own pace. Perhaps visit the magnificent Louvre Museum to see the legendary Mona Lisa, discover the fascinating catacombs beneath the city or simply wander the streets and soak up the atmosphere of the "City of Light". Your Sisterhood hostess is available to assist with planning your day.
Optional DiscoverMORE Excursion – Tastes of Paris
Extra expense
Discover everyday Parisian life on a guided walking tour through the historic Le Marais district. See landmarks such as Place des Vosges, Hôtel de Sully, and Rue des Rosiers while exploring one of the city's most charming neighbourhoods. Along the way, sample delicious French pastries and other much-loved local treats.
Activity Level: Moderate
Duration: 2.5 hours
Dinner at leisure tonight - your Sisterhood Hostess will arrange a venue and meet you in the lobby.
Overnight - Pullman Paris Montparnasse (or similar)
Day 5 - Friday 6 August 2027
Paris (B )
Another free day to enjoy Paris at leisure.
Sightseeing in Paris is an endless pleasure, and your Tour Hostess and Cruise Director are on hand to help you plan your day to explore the romance capital of the world.
Dinner at leisure tonight - Your Sisterhood hostess will arrange a venue and meet you in the lobby.
Overnight - Pullman Paris Montparnasse (or similar)
DiscoverMORE
Tastes of Paris (extra expense)
Day 6 - Saturday 7 August 2027
Paris to Amsterdam / Embarkation (B, D)
This morning we travel by coach from Paris to Amsterdam. A warm welcome awaits us from our Captain and crew as we board our luxury Emerald Waterways river cruise ship. This evening we'll join our fellow cruise travellers for a cocktail reception followed by a welcome dinner.
Overnight - Emerald Luna
Day 7 - Sunday 8 August 2027
Amsterdam Cruising (B, L, D)
Discover the timeless beauty of the Dutch countryside, where mirror-like waterways, historic windmills and picturesque villages showcase centuries of Dutch tradition. Visit charming towns and rural communities and gain an insight into how the Dutch have shaped and lived alongside their unique landscape for generations.
Included Excursion – Timeless Dutch Countryside
Step beyond the city to experience the authentic rhythm of rural Holland. Explore charming villages, see working windmills and meet locals keeping age-old traditions alive, while enjoying the heritage, hospitality and simple pleasures of traditional Dutch life.
Optional DiscoverMORE Excursion – Hidden Gems of Amsterdam
Extra expense
Discover a quieter and more authentic side of Amsterdam on a relaxed guided tour through the historic Jordaan district. Visit a charming chocolate shop, stroll through some of the city's beautiful streets, and explore Our Lord in the Attic, a remarkable 17th-century house that hides a preserved Catholic church in its attic. Finish with a local beer and traditional Dutch snacks at a cosy brewery before returning to the ship.
Activity Level: Moderate
Duration: 2.5 hours
Overnight - Emerald Luna
Day 8 - Monday 9 August 2027
Cologne (B, L, D)
Cologne is one of Germany's oldest cities and the largest city on the Rhine. Founded by the Romans in 50 AD, this historic city is home to an impressive mix of Roman ruins, medieval architecture and the magnificent twin towers of its famous cathedral. Although much of the city was destroyed during World War II, Cologne has been carefully and beautifully rebuilt.
Included Excursion – Quest for Cologne's Treasures
Join a local guide for a walking tour of Cologne before setting off on a fun, unique treasure hunt. Armed with a map, search for locations and treasures that are distinctly Cologne while discovering more about the city's history, culture and character along the way.
Optional DiscoverMORE Excursion – German Beer Experience
Extra expense
Discover Cologne's lively beer culture on a guided tour through some of the city's legendary brewhouses. Learn about and sample Kölsch, the crisp golden beer brewed exclusively in the Cologne region, while experiencing this much-loved local tradition.
Activity Level: Moderate
Duration: 2 hours
Overnight - Emerald Luna
Day 9 - Tuesday 10 August 2027
Rhine Gorge - Rudesheim (B, L, D)
Today, cruise through the spectacular World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge, one of the most scenic stretches of the Rhine. Admire ancient hilltop castles and fortresses, pass the legendary Lorelai Rock and see the impressive Pfalzgrafenstein Castle as you journey through this fairytale-like landscape.
This afternoon, arrive in Rüdesheim, a charming wine-growing town surrounded by terraced vineyards and filled with beautiful half-timbered buildings.
Included Excursion – Siegfried's Mechanical Music Cabinet Museum
Travel by local mini-train through Rüdesheim's narrow streets to the Siegfried's Mechanical Music Cabinet Museum. Discover a fascinating collection of more than 350 automatic musical instruments, ranging from tiny music boxes to the impressive Concert-Piano-Orchestrion.
EmeraldACTIVE – Active Walk to Niederwalddenkmal
For those looking for a more active experience, hike through the vineyards to the Niederwalddenkmal, a 19th-century monument celebrating the unification of Germany. From the top, enjoy spectacular panoramic views across Rüdesheim's old town and the Rhine.
Overnight - Emerald Luna
Day 10 - Wednesday 11 August 2027
Miltenberg - Wertheim (B, L, D)
Welcome to Miltenberg, a picturesque village on the Main River filled with the charm of medieval Bavaria. Colourful 15th-century half-timbered buildings, cobblestone streets and hidden corners reflect the town's fascinating history as a once-important trading hub.
Included Excursion – Guided Tour of Miltenberg
Join a local guide for a stroll through Miltenberg's cobblestone streets. See the Gothic Merchant Hall, Germany's oldest inn dating back to at least 1411, Miltenberg Castle, and the town's distinctive red-sandstone church and bridge.
EmeraldPLUS – Visit to Bronnbach Abbey (Extra Expense)
Visit historic Bronnbach Abbey in nearby Wertheim. Explore this beautifully preserved Cistercian monastery, renowned for its Romanesque and Gothic architecture, peaceful cloisters and impressive Baroque interiors.
EmeraldACTIVE – Active Walk to Mildenburg Castle
Enjoy an active walk through the forest to 12th-century Mildenburg Castle. Once almost lost to time, this historic landmark now houses a fascinating collection of contemporary art and old masters.
Overnight - Emerald Luna
Day 11 - Thursday 12 August 2027
Wurzburg (B, L, D)
Würzburg, known as the "Pearl of the Romantic Road", is the historic wine capital of Franconia. Set on the banks of the Main River, this elegant city is renowned for its beautiful architecture, rich cultural heritage, and centuries-old winemaking tradition.
Included Excursion – Walking Tour of Würzburg & the Bishop's Residence
Join a guided walking tour of Würzburg before visiting the magnificent World Heritage-listed Würzburg Residence. Discover this Baroque masterpiece and learn how it was painstakingly restored after suffering extensive damage during World War II.
Optional DiscoverMORE Excursion – Rothenburg
Extra expense
Travel to Rothenburg, one of Germany's best-preserved medieval towns. Walk its ancient streets and city walls, admire panoramic views from the Town Hall Tower and enjoy free time to explore its Gothic churches, museums and charming historic buildings. Your visit also includes a tasting of traditional local sausages.
Please note: This optional excursion operates at the same time as the included Würzburg tour.
Activity Level: Moderate
Duration: 6.5 hours
Overnight - Emerald Luna
Day 12 - Friday 13 August 2027
Bamberg (B, L, D)
Enjoy a relaxing morning on board as we cruise towards Bamberg. This World Heritage-listed town is home to one of Europe's largest medieval centres, with around 2,400 historic buildings lining its charming streets.
Included Excursion – Guided Tour of Bamberg
Join a local guide to explore Bamberg and discover its fascinating history and architecture. Admire the impressive New Residence, once home to the prince bishops and now housing an important collection of German and Baroque art, before enjoying a peaceful stroll through the beautiful Rose Garden.
Overnight - Emerald Luna
Day 13 - Saturday 14 August 2027
Nuremberg (B, L,D)
Welcome to Nuremberg, Bavaria's second-largest city and a destination with a fascinating and complex history spanning the Middle Ages, the Renaissance, and the modern era.
Included Excursion – Guided Tour of Nuremberg
Explore historic Nuremberg on a guided sightseeing tour, discovering the city's impressive architecture and learning about the impact of the war years. Afterwards, enjoy time at leisure to wander among the beautifully reconstructed half-timbered buildings and explore the city at your own pace.
Optional DiscoverMORE Excursion – World War II Tour
Extra expense
Gain a deeper insight into Nuremberg's significant role during World War II and Germany's Nazi regime. Visit the former Nazi Rally Grounds, enjoy a panoramic drive through the city and tour the famous Courtroom 600, where the Nuremberg War Crimes Trials were held.
Activity Level: Easy
Duration: 4 hours
Overnight - Emerald Luna
Day 14 - Sunday 15 August 2027
Regensburg (B, L, D)
This morning, we’ll cruise the final stretch of the fascinating Main-Danube Canal to Regensburg. As you continue down the Danube, one ofGermany’s best-preserved medieval cities welcomes you with two millennia of history. Despite its ancient past, modern-day Regensburg has a relaxed atmosphere, with its streets made lively by a large student population.
Included Excursion - Guided tour of Regensburg
Set out on foot to discover the highlights of Regensburg. Wander the streets with your guide, as the romantic narrow alleys of the World Heritage-listed Old Town and the 13th-century Town Hall invite you to live through the city’s history. The highlight of your tour will be the 12th-century Stone Bridge, a medieval structure crossing the Danube. Enjoy time to explore Regensburg at leisure.
EmeraldPLUS
Bavarian band performance on board
Make your way to the Horizon Bar & Lounge for a special performance from a Bavarian band, who will play traditional music and wear their authentic Lederhosen.
DiscoverMORE - Sausage-making workshop
Extra Expense
The white breakfast sausage is a beloved tradition in Regensburg. Together with an expert from the family butchery DEUTSCH, you learn how to produce fresh sausages, from the recipe to weighing and cutting, to filling the meat into natural casings.
Activity level: Easy, Duration: 2 hours
Overnight - Emerald Luna
Day 15 - Monday 16 August 2027
Passau (B, L, D)
Passau is a picturesque city set at the confluence of the Danube, Inn, and Ilz rivers. Discover its beautiful squares, riverside promenades, romantic lanes and charming cobblestone streets before returning to the ship for lunch.
This afternoon, relax on board as you cruise along the Danube towards Linz. Later this evening, enjoy a waltz dance show on board.
Included Excursion – Guided Tour of Passau
Join a guided walking tour through Passau's historic streets, lined with beautiful 17th-century Baroque buildings. See the Gothic Town Hall, Bishop's Residence and magnificent St. Stephen's Cathedral, home to one of Europe's largest church organs.
Optional DiscoverMORE Excursion – Salzburg
Extra expense
Spend a full day exploring beautiful Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart and the famous setting for The Sound of Music. Surrounded by the Austrian Alps, discover the historic city centre, wander along the Linzer Gasse shopping street and visit Mozart's former home.
Activity Level: Easy
Duration: 10 hours
Optional DiscoverMORE Excursion – Český Krumlov
Extra expense
Travel to the World Heritage-listed medieval town of Český Krumlov in South Bohemia. Join a local guide to explore its fairytale-like Old Town, wandering cobblestone streets lined with historic townhouses and beautiful Renaissance and Baroque architecture.
Overnight - Emerald Luna
Day 16 - Tuesday 17 August 2027
Melk - Durnstein (B, L, D)
Situated within Austria’s wine-growing region, Melk is home to a 900-year-old Benedictine abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed site, which is ours to explore today during an included tour. Our guide will take us through a series of opulent rooms, each adorned with the finest Italian Baroque architecture and ornate gold leaf walls, including the ancient monastic library, renowned for its extensive collection of medieval manuscripts.
Later, our Star-Ship sails through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Wachau Valley and on to Dürnstein, one of the most enchanting villages in the Wachau wine region, where we can choose to hike to Dürnstein Castle, the site where Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned after returning from the Crusades.
Alternatively, enjoy an EmeraldACTIVE guided bike ride along the Danube from Melk to Dürnstein, passing famous vineyards and quaint towns before settling down for a picnic lunch on the riverbanks.
Onboard - Emerald Luna
EmeraldACTIVE
Guided bike tour along the Danube
EmeraldACTIVE
Guided hike to Dürnstein Castle
Included Excursion
Tour of Melk Abbey
Day 17 - Wednesday 18 August 2027
Vienna (B, L, D)
Austria’s breathtaking capital is recognised for its cultural legacy. As the former residence of Mozart and Beethoven, the area is home to a multitude of imperial palaces that reflect a rich history, and the museum district boasts contemporary buildings housing the work of some of the world’s most prolific artists.
Explore the famous sights of the Ringstrasse and Vienna’s city centre by coach and on foot or join a guided bike tour. Marvel at the Renaissance-style arches that adorn the façades of the Opera House, the Baroque Burgtheater and the Flemish Gothic Parliament before enjoying time to explore Vienna at leisure.
Onboard - Emerald Luna
EmeraldACTIVE
Guided bike tour of Vienna
Included Excursion
Guided tour of Vienna
DiscoverMORE
Viennese evening concert (extra expense)
DiscoverMORE
Visit to Schönbrunn Palace (extra expense)
Day 18 - Thursday 19 August 2027
Bratislava (B, L, D)
Set at the crossroads of ancient trade routes in the heart of Europe, Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, is a place where Baroque palaces, boutiques and cafés adorn cobblestone streets. In the morning, enjoy a sightseeing tour, including the enchanting Old City, or hike to Bratislava Castle.
Our local guide will take us through the heart of the city. Pass by the botanical gardens of the Episcopal Summer Palace, the Old Town Hall and its delightful Renaissance courtyard and the Slovak National Theatre, where busts of famous composers adorn the façade. After our tour, enjoy free time to explore at leisure.
This afternoon, a local family will be happy to welcome us into their home for some great conversation over traditional sweet treats and coffee.
Onboard - Emerald Luna
EmeraldPLUS
Home-hosted coffee and cake with a Slovakian family
EmeraldACTIVE
Guided hike to Bratislava Castle
Included Excursion
Walking tour of Bratislava
DiscoverMORE
Skoda tour of post-Communist Bratislava (extra expense)
DiscoverMORE
Carpathian wine route (extra expense)
Day 19 - Friday 20 August 2027
Budapest (B, L, D)
Budapest is Eastern Europe’s liveliest and most cosmopolitan city. Divided by the iconic Danube River, Buda and Pest on either side can be reached via the Chain Bridge, one of the city’s most symbolic structures.
Enjoy a guided tour of the city with our local guide this morning. Alternatively, embark on a hike to Gellert Hill, traversing winding cobblestone streets underneath the massive Baroque masterpiece that is Buda Castle.
This evening, we will enjoy a Hungarian folklore show before our farewell dinner.
Onboard - Emerald Luna
EmeraldPLUS
Traditional Hungarian folklore show on board
EmeraldACTIVE
Hike to Gellert Hill
Included Excursion
Guided coach tour of Budapest
DiscoverMORE
Excursion to Szentendre (extra expense)
DiscoverMORE
Jewish heritage tour (extra expense)
Day 20 - Saturday 21 August 2027
Budapest (B, D)
After breakfast, disembark our Star-Ship to be transferred to our hotel in Budapest. After check-in, we'll have free time to explore the city on foot. Budapest is a city that effortlessly blends old-world elegance with a vibrant modern spirit. Straddling the beautiful Danube River, Hungary's captivating capital is filled with grand architecture, historic treasures and charming neighbourhoods just waiting to be explored. From its magnificent Parliament building and famous thermal baths to lively cafés and sweeping river views, Budapest is a city full of character, culture and unforgettable moments.
Tonight we'll regroup for a farewell dinner to celebrate fun times with new friends!
Overnight - Barcelo Budapest (or similar)
Day 21 - Sunday 22 August 2027
Budapest - Home (B, Meals in Flight)
Free time in Budapest before our flight home.
Sit back, relax and reminisce about great times shared with new friends. Enjoy the inflight entertainment and hospitality of your airline.
Day 22 - Monday 23 August 2027
Welcome Home!
Welcome Home!
Arriving into Melbourne early morning. Thank you for travelling with Sisterhood Womens Travel and we look forward to welcoming you back for your next adventure!