EmeraldACTIVE

Showcasing the very best that Europe has to offer, our exceptional river cruises introduce the highlights of the continent – from the splendour of the Rhine Gorge to the elegant boulevards of Vienna. In between memorable sightseeing and cultural encounters, you can enjoy an exciting collection of EmeraldACTIVE excursions, special events that let you stretch your legs and keep active amid the inspiring backdrops of Europe’s iconic waterways.

With at least one EmeraldACTIVE excursion included in all our cruise itineraries, you’ll have the chance to explore wondrous locations such as Wertheim Castle in Germany or cycle the historic streets of Belgrade. Alternatively, a number of our itineraries offer unguided EmeraldACTIVE experiences, so you can savour the highlights on a route of your making.

So, to get you started, we’ve picked our favourite EmeraldACTIVE excursions on each of the European rivers we navigate.

EmeraldACTIVE on the Danube

Running through delightful cities and stunning countryside for 1,780 miles; the Danube offers an amazing selection of excursions close to its banks.

Guided bike tour between Durnstein & Melk

A couple riding Emerald Waterways e-bikes

Enjoy a mostly flat 23-mile bike tour through rolling vineyards and quaint towns in the Wachau Valley. On this unique EmeraldACTIVE excursion, look forward to stopping for lunch on the banks of the Danube where you may even see your Star-Ship pass by which will later meet you at the next docking point. The duration of this guided bike tour is approximately four hours which you can look forward to on our Splendours of Europe, Danube Delights and Danube Explorer river cruises.

Hike the Cobbled Streets and Buda Hill in Budapest

With its 1,000-year heritage and web of cobblestoned streets, Budapest’s Castle Hill district is ripe for an immersive guided hike. Take up your walking poles and set forth up through the curious byways of Castle Hill in the company of an experienced local guide, who will provide intriguing insight into the history of the area. At the summit, Buda Castle astounds with its Baroque façade and offers a far-reaching panorama of the city – views which make all that effort truly worthwhile.

a train crossing Chain Bridge over a body of water

Danube Explorer

Passau to Budapest

Walk the cobblestone streets of Medieval cities, explore Austria’s wine-growing region and marvel at the fusion of old and new in musical Vienna and eclectic Budapest.

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EmeraldACTIVE on the Main

The Main runs through the heart of Bavaria, perfect if you want to explore a world of half-timber houses and enchanting beauty.

A guided walk to Wertheim Castle

a castle with a clock at the top of a building

After exploring the medieval town centre of Wertheim, take a guided tour to the small town’s picturesque castle. Dating back to the 14th century, the castle is perched protectively overlooking Wertheim and is built with distinct redbrick. Learn more about the traditions of Wertheim and the history of the castle with an expert guide courtesy of EmeraldACTIVE.

Legends of the Moselle Rhine and Main

Nuremberg to Frankfurt

Bavaria is brought to life during excursions to UNESCO World Heritage-listed towns whilst every corner turned on this journey down the Moselle, Rhine and Main unveils rich history.

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EmeraldACTIVE on the Rhine

Fairy-tale backdrops illuminate the banks of the Rhine, producing a region absolutely ripe for exploration.

Guided nature walk through the Black Forest

Available on our Jewels of the Rhine river cruise, you can enjoy a guided nature walk through the woods, starting in Breisach where your ship will dock. Lasting around an hour, this insightful tour will take place in the afternoon and is the perfect way to partake in a unique experience, whilst also working up an appetite for your evening meal on-board your Star-Ship.

An enriching hike to Altes Schloss in Baden Baden

Baden Baden’s Altes Schloss rewards those who hike to its charming hill-side location with eerie dungeons, enigmatic hallways and stunning views. Although largely a ruin, the site remains a wonderful place to explore on foot, and an EmeraldACTIVE guided tour will provide you with everything you need to know about its 900-year-long history.

EmeraldACTIVE on the Rhône

Meandering through some of the world’s richest wine regions, the River Rhône absolutely invites you to explore on foot or by bicycle.

Hike the vineyards of the Côtes du Rhône

Beyond the limits of medieval Tournon lies the terraced vine slopes of the Côtes du Rhône, one of France’s most esteemed wine-making appellations. It’s here, within sight of the weaving passage of the river, that you can enjoy an EmeraldACTIVE vineyard hike – taking in the fragrant grape rows, inspiring scenery and warm, Mediterranean climate. Climb from the river’s edge to the summit of the valley through these celebrated wine lands promises, and enjoy a post-walk tasting session.

On-board yoga lessons against a backdrop of Southern France

A select few EmeraldACTIVE options don’t even require you leave your Star-Ship. The Sensations of Lyon & Provence with Nice river cruise offers you the chance to practice yoga with an experienced yogi as you pass through stunning Avignon. A great workout for body and mind, this class is suitable for beginners and those experienced in yoga, alike.

Take part in this EmeraldACTIVE experience during our Sensations of Lyon & Provence with Nice river cruise.

EmeraldACTIVE on the Douro

Running through the Douro Valley in beautiful Portugal, the Douro can be explored on foot, bicycle, or even by canoe.

Canoeing experience with expert guides

If you long to get a little closer to the waters when exploring the Douro, EmeraldACTIVE gives you the chance to venture out on a canoe. With an expert guide teaching you the ropes and leading the way, you’ll soon be navigating these amazing waters in invigorating style.

Enjoy this EmeraldACTIVE excursion on our Secrets of the Douro river cruise.

Guided Walking Tour of Porto

Where the Douro meets the sea, Porto’s rich history and heritage opens up in all its splendour. A delightful mix of modern and ancient architecture, Porto provides a stunning setting for a walking tour. With an expert guide on hand, you’re bound to learn plenty about Portugal’s second city.