Paris to the Swiss Alps

Enjoy a fascinating stroll through Speyer, home to the largest of the three Romanesque imperial cathedrals. It is believed that the Protestants earned their name here in 1529 after citizens and royalty drafted the “Protestation at Speyer,” proclaiming their right to practice Christianity as they please. In 1689, Louis XIV’s troops plundered Speyer and left it in ruins; over many decades, it was artfully rebuilt. During your walk, you will marvel at the exterior of the red sandstone cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Eight emperors are entombed here, including some of the most notable Holy Roman Emperors. Reconstructed after Louis XIV’s invasion, its six towers dominate the skyline. Pass the Jewish courtyard, once home to one of the most important medieval synagogues, and Speyer’s Altpörtel, or Old Gate, the last remains of the town’s fortifications. There will also be time to stroll the city’s charming, shop-lined main thoroughfare.

Visit two of Germany’s most historic cities, one renowned for its religious past and the other for its university. Drive with your guide to Worms, where 2,000 years of history encompass emperors, kings, Nibelung legends, Jewish history and the edict that declared Martin Luther a heretic for his religious beliefs. A city tour reveals the major highlights of this former capital of the First Kingdom of Burgundy. You will stop to explore the Imperial Worms Cathedral, one of the finest examples of Romanesque architecture in Germany. After, continue to Heidelberg on the Neckar River. Its prestigious university is the oldest in Germany, founded in 1386. During your stay, you will stroll the charming streets of the baroque-style Old Town and visit the Heidelberg Castle, a blend of Gothic and Renaissance. The romantic, red sandstone structure began as a royal residence and was later enhanced by a palace and fortress.

Visit the stunning gardens of Schloss Schwetzingen and admire the baroque architecture amid beautiful flora. Meet your guide and board your motor coach for the drive to Schwetzingen. Stroll through the exquisitely ornate gardens as you hear about the palace’s architecture and long-standing history; the palace was the summer residence of Electors Palatine Charles III Philip and Charles IV Theodore of the House of Wittelsbach. View the decorative water fountains and admire the garden’s sculptures representing scenes from Greek mythology. Learn about the garden’s collection of plants, trees and flowers that bloom across the seasons, presenting a colorful canvas all year round. See the baroque-style theater, the Temple of Apollo and the 18th-century bathhouse, a favorite retreat of the princes. After your guided visit, enjoy free time to explore on your own before returning to your ship.