Cruise the Face of Europe
July 26-August 11, 2008

Overview
Features
Ports of Call
Itinerary

Overview (Return to top)

Journey through five fascinating countries: Holland, Germany, Austria, the Slovak Republic, and Hungary. The Face of Europe has been deeply etched by dramatic events of the ages, yet softened by the grace of nature. This passage through history heralds the fascinating relics of the Holy Roman Empire, great architectural vestiges of medieval conquests and the extravagant palaces of noblemen. See spectacular storybook castles perched precariously atop jagged limestone bluffs and admire undulating countryside cloaked in scented pine and terraced vineyards as far as the eye can see. Explore narrow cobblestone lanes lined by quaint half-timbered houses in villages embraced by thickly wooded hills that hug the river banks. Between Amsterdam’s labyrinth of canals and the bridges of Budapest you’ll see magnificent sights, celebrated castles, mighty fortresses and picture-perfect panoramas. Cruise the Face of Europe to experience the unforgettable adventure of a lifetime!

For 2,000 years, the Rhine River has been the European continent’s chief waterway and trade route, linking Central Europe to the North Sea. At its northern end, the river lazily winds through green, peaceful plains and gentle valleys. In the amazing Rhine Gorge, towering escarpments are crowned by fabled castles steeped in myth and mystery. The lush vineyards, tangled woods and ancient ruins set atop rocky spurs are a photographer’s dream. Stemming from the Rhine, the Main River (pronounced “mine”) meanders past the scenic towns, towers and turrets of Bavaria into the man-made Main-Danube Canal at Bamberg. An engineering marvel of the 20th century that realized Charlemagne’s dream, the canal steps along a succession of locks in the picturesque Altmühl Valley and Germany’s largest nature preserve. At Kelheim, the canal joins the storied blue Danube River, celebrated in song and saga. This great river travels an impressive 1,800-mile course, carving a serpentine path across eight countries, before ultimately reaching the Black Sea. Throughout the ages, the Danube has been a conduit for cultural influences, and the historic and architectural attractions that line its banks are legendary.

Priced from $4,695 plus air
Alumni Holidays, Inc.

For reservations or additional information, contact:
Jan Breitman [jbreitman@alumni.iastate.edu]
Iowa State University Alumni Association
Fisher-Nickell Hall
Ames, Iowa 50011-1370

Phone: (515) 294-6526 direct or (877) ISU-ALUM toll-free
Fax: (515) 294-9402

Features (Return to top)

• Unpack once and sail in comfort as you experience the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers between Amsterdam and Budapest. 
• Cruise through Charlemagne’s Dream, the Main-Danube Canal, an engineering marvel.
• First-Class accommodations and superlative service aboard the MS Switzerland II.
• Witness breathtaking wonders of nature in the Rhine Gorge and Wachau Valley.
• Among many included excursions, marvel at the architectural masterpieces of Cologne Cathedral, Melk’s Benedictine Abbey and Vienna’s Hofburg Palace.
• Experience a fantastic guided journey along Germany’s scenic and storied Romantic Road, featuring a visit to the picture-postcard village of Rothenburg ob der Tauber.
• Gather with fellow travelers at a Welcome Reception and Dinner on board the ship.
• Enjoy three full meals each day, including a breakfast buffet, a two-course lunch and a three-course dinner, including tea or coffee with all meals and local wines with dinner.
• Attend special entertainment events on board ship.
• All shore excursions: 
  • Tour the highlights of Amsterdam including the Rijksmuseum’s Dutch Masters Collection
  • On a walking tour in central Cologne, admire the lovely Cathedral
  • Visit the baroque Residenz in Würzburg.
  • Travel the famous Romantic Road
  • Explore historic Nuremberg
  • Discover the Roman heritage of Regensburg
  • Stroll through the charming streets of Passau
  • Visit the architectural splendor of Melk Abbey
  • Delight in Vienna’s Imperial treasures
  • Marvel at the medieval wonders of Bratislava
  • See Budapest’s beautiful landmarks
• Many included extras:
  • Consultation of a Passenger Service Represetnative prior to departure
  • Services of a knowledgeable AHI Travel Director and Expert English-speaking Local Guides throughout your trip.
  • Detailed destination and travel information to assist in your planning.
  • Deluxe travel wallet.

Ports of Call (Return to top)

Holland
Amsterdam: The bucolic images of the Netherlands find their contrasts in the capital city of Amsterdam. Here, medieval gables, cathedrals and tranquil courtyards are the stage for the activities of a vital, exuberant culture. One hundred miles of canals trace their way through a city of amazingly diverse architecture, from quaint 17th-century half-timbered houses to patrician Louis XIV manors with elaborate cornices and frescoed ceilings. Neo-Gothic turrets distinguish the renowned Rijksmuseum, home of the world’s finest collection of art by the great Dutch masters. The van Gogh Museum is an unrivaled tribute to the tormented genius.

Germany
Cologne: Scenic capital of the Rhineland, Cologne holds some of Europe’s most captivating historic sites. From the Severinus Bridge, enjoy a tranquil view of spires and belfries that front the river. A grand twin-spired Gothic cathedral is the centerpiece with its 56 immense pillars, magnificent stained glass and medieval sculptures. The city that, 200 years ago, gave the world one of the most familiar fragrances, today offers a fascinating look at classic and contemporary Dutch and Germanic art.

Rüdesheim: Although ancient ambience, medieval castles and inviting courtyards are among its draws, the most noted allure of Rüdesheim is wine. It is believed that Charlemagne, who regularly indulged in the pleasures of the grape, planted the first vines himself. Along the Drosselgasse, a narrow street at the city’s centre, many friendly wine taverns offer samples of delicious local vintages.

Würzburg: Germany’s greatest baroque city, Würzburg is surrounded by lush vineyards and serene countryside. Towering over the banks of the Main is its 12th-century Festung Marienberg, an impressive imperial fortress. In the heart of town, surrounded by gardens, is the prince-bishop’s Residenz. Built 1719-44, it is one of the largest and most beautiful palaces in Germany. Admire the staircase hall and magnificently decorated interior.

Romantic Road: With its full length stretching for 180 miles (290 km) between Würzburg and Füssen in the foothills of the Bavarian Alps, the aptly named Romantic Road, or Romantische Strasse, is one of Germany’s most scenic treasures. Along the way, the route travels through breathtaking landscapes and well-preserved villages where ancient castles, steepled chapels and Roman ruins inspire a fairy tale ambience. One of its most charming sights is the walled medieval town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, famous for its picturesque Plönlein (“little place”) and Siebers Tower.

Nuremberg: No other region lives up to the image of quintessential Germany better than Bavaria. Nuremberg, the state’s second-largest city, has a style that is gracious and elegant yet open and friendly. The Old Town is virtually a separate medieval village with thick stone walls, meandering streets, half-timbered houses and quaint shops, while the towers and turrets of the Imperial Castle stand proudly on a hill.

Regensburg: This enchanting city seemingly untouched by time is a vibrant testimony to the passing centuries. An ancient Roman fort stands above the original Celtic settlement. One of the fort’s gates constructed in A.D. 179 still survives, while the Stone Bridge spanning the Danube dates from the early 12th century.

Passau: Baron Alexander von Humboldt, the 19th-century scientist, explorer and writer, described Passau as “one of the seven most beautiful cities in the world.” Overlooking the confluence of the Danube, the Inn and the Ilz rivers, Passau’s appeal remains undimmed by the passing centuries. Chief among the city’s photogenic scenery, old-world charm, and architectural treasures are the Bishop’s Palace and St. Stephen’s Cathedral with its splendid baroque embellishments.

Austria
Melk: Perched on a bluff over the Danube, Melk exhibits a majestic silhouette hinting at its architectural grandeur. The massive and glorious Benedictine Abbey is one of Austria’s most astonishingly ornate monastic houses and most perfect baroque structures. Books as old as 1,200 years are among the 100,000 volumes in the library and speak of monastic influence on science and culture through the ages.

Dürnstein: The Danube flows between the verdant banks and rocky crags of the beautiful Wachau Valley. It was in Dürnstein that Richard the Lionhearted was held prisoner in the 12th century on his way back to England from the Crusades. Known as the Pearl of the Wachau Valley, the treasures within its ancient walls and towers include outstanding baroque architecture, a Renaissance palace and the poignant remains of a 13th-century Gothic church. Step inside the blue-and-white baroque Stiftskirche built on the river bank.

Vienna: Austria’s crown jewel is a city of immutable elegance and style. Renowned for its musical heritage, Vienna’s State Opera House delights the world with melodic notes penned by its famous composers, Mozart, Beethoven, Schubert and Strauss. White Lipizzan horses have danced in graceful dressage at the Spanish Riding School for more than 400 years. Explore one of Vienna’s legendary palaces, the imperial Hofburg. Underneath the colorful umbrellas of a sidewalk café, pause to sample a robust Viennese coffee and rich sacher torte on your own while admiring St. Stephens Cathedral’s skyscraping bell tower.

Slovak Republic
Bratislava: Site of the crowning of many kings and queens, Bratislava was the powerful capital of Hungary for more than three centuries in the Middle Ages. Today, it is the capital of the Slovak Republic, an ancient region with a charm and character all its own. The historic heart of the city is replete with preserved fortifications and austere Gothic buildings. Among them, the pale pink-and-white Primate’s Palace was built in 1778 and topped with various marble statues and a large cast iron cardinal’s hat.

Hungary
Budapest: Spanning the mighty Danube River, Budapest ranks as one of Europe’s most striking capitals and premier spa resorts. This Pearl of the Danube is actually a twin city born in 1873 when historic and romantic Buda on the west bank and bustling Pest on the flatter east bank were united. Budapest’s spectacular panorama can best be appreciated from the series of bridges that crisscross the river. Its famous Parliament Building, rich in Byzantine architecture and Gothic flair, is one of the city’s most alluring sights. Hungarian nationalism is honored in grandiose Heroes’ Square and by 700-year-old St. Matthias Church, a symbol of the city’s rich, yet often tragic history. The seven round white towers of distinctive Fishermen’s Bastion represent the seven Magyar tribes that gave rise to the nation a thousand years ago.

Itinerary (Return to top)

Day 1  
Depart your Gateway City

Day 2  
Arrive Amsterdam, Netherlands 
Embark MS Switzerland II

Day 3  
Amsterdam

Day 4  
Cologne, Germany 

Day 5  
Cruise the Rhine Gorge
Rüdesheim

Day 6  
Aschaffenburg

Day 7  
Karlstadt 
Würzburg

Day 8  
Gerlachshausen  
Rothenburg ob der Tauber (via Romantic Road)  
Hassfurt

Day 9 
Bamberg
Forchheim 
Nuremberg

Day 10
Cruise the Main-Danube Canal
Riedenburg

Day 11  
Regensburg

Day 12  
Passau

Day 13  
Melk
Dürnstein

Day 14  
Vienna

Day 15  
Bratislava, Slovak Republic  
Esztergom, Hungary

Day 16  
Budapest

Day 17  
Disembark ship
Return to your Gateway City

Note: Itinerary schedule may change due to local conditions. Many excursions in this program involve an element of walking, as some of the finest attractions are located in areas not closely accessible by motor coach.