Edinburgh, the Highlands and Islands with European Gems

Today you will arrive in Scotland's much-loved capital, Edinburgh. Discover its fascinating history, unsurpassed beauty and warm, friendly locals. You will be met at the airport and transferred to your centrally located hotel, situated close to the station. Stay: Edinburgh, Apex Hotel Waterloo Place (D)

All aboard for Glasgow this morning, before changing trains for a journey on one of the world's most incredible railway lines, the West Highland Line. Travel along a hillside ledge overlooking Gare Loch before entering the spectacular Highlands, an idyllic, remote and untouched landscape. The incredible route skirts the western banks of Loch Lomond and climbs quickly from Crianlarich to Upper Tyndrum and wild Rannoch Moor, a dramatic region of peat bogs, streams and ancient forests that are only visible from the comfort of your train.

On arrival at Fort William, transfer to your hotel. Stay Three Nights: Fort William Glenspean Lodge Hotel (or similar) (B/D)

Venture to the town of Oban where you'll board a ferry and cruise to Craignure on the Isle of Mull. Heading through the small islands and across to Mull, the incredible picture-postcard views are awe-inspiring. Think rugged coastline; hills rising sharply from the water's edge; endless greens, purples and browns of the moorland; and jagged, exposed rock faces. On approach to the island, catch sight of Duart Castle, the ancestral home of the Maclean Clan.

Spend time at leisure in the island's colourful capital. Wander the pretty port and seek out its sheltered bay where, according to legend, one of the Spanish Armada ships sank in 1588 carrying a stash of gold.

Later, return to your hotel for the evening. (B/D)

Today you'll travel by coach to Neptune's Staircase, an impressive set of eight locks operated by a team of at least three lock keepers. Situated on the Caledonian Canal, the 22-ton lock gates were originally hand-powered but are now operated by hydraulics. It takes approximately one-and-a-half hours to pass from one end of the staircase to the other, where water overcomes gravity and nature to climb the hillside. From here, discover the picturesque waters of Loch Linnhe and set off on a cruise.

Later, pass the stunning mountain landscapes of Glencoe before returning to your hotel. Tonight, enjoy a traditional Scottish dinner and whisky tasting. (B/D)

Departing from Fort William, join the Jacobite Steam Train. Your train will steam past Ben Nevis before climbing into the mountains around Glenfinnan, a town famous as the rallying point for Bonnie Prince Charlie's assault on the British throne. At Glenfinnan, reach the line's most picturesque section and one of Britain's most iconic engineering works – the 21-arched Glenfinnan Viaduct. A magical experience, it's no wonder this train was featured as the Hogwarts Express in the Harry Potter films.

As you head towards Mallaig, we drop down to the sea's edge and the landscape opens up with the first views of the rugged ‘Small Isles' – Rum, Eigg and Muck – which hang close offshore and tease in and out of view near the journey's end.

After free time for lunch in Mallaig, continue by coach to explore Glenfinnan. Pass through the picturesque countryside to Inverness, the capital of the Highlands. *Scotrail services may replace the Jacobite Steam Train on early and late departures. Please enquire at time of booking Stay Three Nights: Inverness Palace Hotel and Spa (or similar) (B/D)

Insider Experience: Join the Jacobite Steam Train for a journey to Mallaig on the final leg of the West Highland Line.

This morning, you'll travel to the tranquil waters of Loch Ness, as famous for the elusive ‘monster' that allegedly swims in its depths as for its natural beauty. Later, return by coach to Inverness, and enjoy some time at leisure. (B/D)

Insider Experience: During a cruise, soak up the myth and mystery of Loch Ness and its monster before disembarking at the picturesque 13th-century ruins of Urquhart Castle.

Today, experience one of the most breathtaking railway journeys in Europe – the Kyle Line. one of the most breathtaking railway journeys in Europe – the Kyle Line. Enjoy countless photo opportunities as you wind through wooded hillsides and over sparse moors, climbing over the highlands and past charming loch-side and seaside towns. Arrive at Kyle of Lochalsh, the end of the line, located across a short stretch of water from the Isle of Skye.

Afterwards, make a visit to Eilean Donan Castle, situated on a tiny island in Loch Duich. (B)

Leaving Inverness behind this morning, you'll travel south by rail through the Cairngorms and via the towns of Aviemore and Kingussie, as well as the burgh of Pitlochry, before arriving back in Edinburgh. Transfer from the railway station to your hotel. Stay: Edinburgh, Crowne Plaza Edinburgh Royal Terrace (or similar) (B/D)

Insider Experience: This evening, enjoy the opportunity to try some traditional Scottish fare. You'll also listen to a chorus of bagpipes and drums during a Scottish-themed evening to mark the end of your journey.

After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your included flight from Edinburgh to Amsterdam. Upon arrival, transfer to your contemporary river ship. Perhaps grab a map to explore this carefree, cosmopolitan city.

This evening, meet your Cruise Director and fellow passengers at a Welcome Reception. Stay 14 Nights: aboard your Travelmarvel river ship (B/D)

Board a glass-top boat and glide through Amsterdam's maze of waterways with a local guide, before enjoying some free time to explore this lively city.

Later, travel by coach to Utrecht, via Rembrandt's Windmill. From here, your ship will set off along the Rhine as you prepare for tonight's special Gala Welcome Dinner. (B/L/D)

Learn how the twin spires of Cologne's famous cathedral, the Kolner Dom, took over six centuries to complete as you tour this picturesque city by coach. You'll then take the short drive to Bruhl for your Insider Experience. (B/L/D)

Insider Experience: Step back in time during a visit to the World Heritage-listed Augustusburg Castle. Listen to enthralling stories and enjoy a walk through the landscaped parks and gardens between the castle and the lodge.

Dock in Rudesheim, and board the Winzerexpress mini-train, bound for Siegfried's Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum. (B/L/D)

Today, arrive in the evocative town of Miltenberg. Perfectly positioned at the confluence of the Tauber and Main rivers, Miltenberg is home to charming half-timbered houses and beautiful squares. Later this evening, enjoy a superb dinner on board. (B/L/D)

Insider Experience: Gain a glimpse into local life in Miltenberg as you embark on a culinary walking tour. Sample regional specialties at a local butcher and baker before finishing with a tasting a local distillery.

Board a coach and travel through the rolling hills to Wurzburg. Admire the baroque palace and walk through the beautiful Court Garden. Later, perhaps enjoy an optional visit to medieval Rothenburg, a true fairytale town. (B/L/D)

Cruise along the last stretch of the Main River before arriving at Bamberg. Here, choose between an afternoon of free time or a guided tour. Later on this evening, your ship will reach the Main-Danube Canal. (B/L/D)

Explore Nuremberg, the site of Hitler's infamous rallies. Wander the cobblestone streets, discovering hidden boutiques and artisan stores. Finish your day cruising through the Main-Danube Canal, crossing Europe's Continental Divide thanks to the canal's 16 stair-step locks. (B/L/D)

Having reached the Danube River overnight, Regensburg awaits. Spend the day in this charming city, conveniently docked right in the heart of town so you can have easy access to all the main sites. Later, perhaps take an optional tour to Kuchlbauer's World of Beer in Abensberg. Take a guided tour of the family-owned brewery and see The Kuchlbauer Tower, designed by Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser. (B/L/D)

Insider Experience: This evening, enjoy an authentic Bavarian experience on board as you sample local beer and snacks, accompanied by traditional folk music, song and dance.

As you enjoy your breakfast, arrive in the ‘Three Rivers City' of Passau, where the rivers Inn and Ilz join the Danube. Perhaps join an optional tour to Cesky Krumlov in the Czech Republic, or travel to Salzburg and enjoy the sights from ‘The Sound of Music'. Alternatively, enjoy a relaxing day sailing to Linz. (B/L/D)

After cruising into Austria, dock in Melk for a tour of Melk Abbey with a local guide. Since 1089, this Benedictine monastery has stood atop a rocky outcrop, offering commanding views of the Danube.

Later, cruise through the picturesque Wachau Valley to Durnstein, a town overlooked by the hilltop ruins of the castle where legendary King Richard the Lionheart was kept as a prisoner in the 12th century. You have the afternoon free to explore the cobbled streets, townhouses and taverns of the town. Perhaps join an optional tour to taste some of the region's wine. (B/L/D)

In Vienna, join a walking tour of St Stephen's Cathedral, the Graben, Hofburg Palace and the Albertina. This evening, perhaps enjoy an optional concert featuring music from Mozart to ‘The Sound of Music'. (B/L/D)

Today is yours to explore Vienna. Perhaps visit the Hofburg area and the Imperial Treasury. Otherwise, enjoy an optional excursion to Schonbrunn Palace, or head to Bratislava.

This evening, set sail for Hungary as you enjoy a Captain's Farewell Dinner. (B/L/D)

After breakfast, join a local guide to explore the city. (B/L/D)

After breakfast, disembark and transfer to the airport for your onward flight. (B)