Destination:
France,
Germany,
Netherlands,
Switzerland,
Duration:
8 days
Style:
River/Small ship/Barge,
Travel Period:
March 2028 - December 2028
Gallery
5+ Gallery Photos
7-night from Amsterdam to Basel
Contoured by vineyard-clad hills and castles from yesteryear, the legendary Rhine captivates. Experience the allure of France’s Alsace region in its welcoming capital, Strasbourg, and its priceless gem, Colmar. Fabled towns lost in time present you with the chance to taste local flavors—Rüdesheimer coffee and legendary German beer—and to touch history up close with guided hikes and bike rides. From Amsterdam’s colorful canals to the majestic Swiss Alps, journey into the heart of the destinations you visit.What's Included
- Board your luxurious ship in Amsterdam, and use your ample amount of time to explore the city before evening briefings, cocktails, and dinner.
- Step into centuries of history at Slot Zuylen, a castle first built around 1250 and shaped by generations that followed. A significant renovation in the mid-17th century transformed the castle. This, along with smaller changes over the centuries have created a rich tapestry of architectural styles, evident as you move through its rooms and corridors. Beyond the walls, the gardens offer a more peaceful, quieter retreat. Together, the castle and its gardens make Slot Zuylen a place where history feels layered, lived in, and very much alive.
- Explore Düsseldorf, a hub of German culture, commerce, and architecture, on a walking tour concluding with a tasting of Altbier, a local specialty brewed using traditional methods. For a nearby adventure, visit Cologne’s Old Town to see the historic Rathaus, the 12th-century Fishmarkt, and the Great St. Martin Church.
- Cruise through the UNESCO-listed Rhine Gorge before arriving in the winemaking town of Rüdesheim. Soar above the vineyards on a gondola ride and savor the flavors of local wines, or take a more active route hiking through the vineyards or biking along the Rhine. Later, explore Siegfried’s Mechanical Instrument Cabinet or enjoy the town’s signature Rüdesheimer coffee, made with brandy, coffee, and whipped cream.
"Cruises departing in February through mid March will dock in Mainz in place of Rudesheim, and a selection of alternative excursions will be made available." - Ludwigshafen serves as your gateway to a variety of excursions. Explore Heidelberg’s medieval streets, red sandstone castle, and the Great Vat, or take a more active route hiking the Philosopher’s Path or biking along the Neckar to Ladenburg’s charming Marktplatz. Alternatively, visit Speyer to see its UNESCO-listed Romanesque cathedral and the medieval Old Gate, Altpörtel.
- Experience Strasbourg, where French and German influences intertwine, as you stroll through the fairytale streets of La Petite France and admire the Cathédrale de Nôtre Dame with its famous astronomical clock. Savor the region’s distinctive Alsatian wines in a guided tasting, or explore the city by bike through charming streets and Parc de l’Orangerie.
- From Breisach, journey into the storybook streets of Colmar, where 16th-century architecture and quaint corners evoke a timeless charm, and spot a miniature Statue of Liberty honoring the town’s famed sculptor. For a more active adventure, cycle or hike through the Kaiserstuhl, a volcanic region of rolling vineyards, lush landscapes, and remarkable biodiversity, where every turn reveals a new vista.
- Begin your journey home
Your Itinerary
Day 1 - Amsterdam
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Day 2 - Amsterdam
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Day 3 - Düsseldorf
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Day 4 - Scenic Cruising
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Day 5 - Ludwigshafen
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Day 6 - Strasbourg
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Day 7 - Breisach
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Day 8 - Basel
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Dates & Pricing
Select your preferred date or enquire
Why book with RACT Travel?
Travel Partner
AmaWaterways is a premier river cruise line offering luxurious journeys through Europe, Asia, Africa, and South America. Known for exceptional service and innovative ship designs, they provide unforgettable travel experiences