Destination:
France,
Germany,
Netherlands,
Switzerland,
Duration:
8 days
Style:
River/Small ship/Barge,
Travel Period:
November 2028 - November 2028
Gallery
5+ Gallery Photos
7-night from Basel to Amsterdam
Discover fairytale castles, historic vineyards and the joy of the holiday season as part of this all-encompassing Rhine River cruise and land fantasy. Start by spending time in Italy’s vibrant Milan and beautiful Lake Como. Continue on to Basel to board your elegantly decorated ship before crossing the border into France’s Alsace region in enchanting Strasbourg. Then it’s off to Germany, where you’ll discover not only the grand city of Cologne but charming villages like the winemaking hamlet of Rüdesheim and the university town of Heidelberg. You’ll also enjoy cruising through the UNESCO-designated Rhine Gorge, where 40 castles are strung like pearls along the riverbanks. Conclude your cruise by exploring the canal-laden city of Amsterdam, with its neat rows of buildings and richWhat's Included
- Arrive in Basel and settle into your cabin, docked where the city’s charm and riverside beauty will welcome you.
- Discover Basel, Switzerland’s vibrant cultural hub where history and modernity meet. Explore the city’s medieval town hall, colorful market square, and elegant 18th-century homes on a guided walking or bike tour that spans three countries—Switzerland, France, and Germany. Alternatively, spend the day in Lucerne exploring its medieval towers, or stay local to visit a Swiss winery, tour the historic Wildegg Castle, or enjoy a scenic hike to its hilltop grounds.
- Experience the unique blend of French and German charm in Strasbourg, a city where cultures meet. Explore the storybook district of La Petite France with its half-timbered houses and cobbled streets, and admire the magnificent Cathédrale de Nôtre Dame and its famous astronomical clock. For a more active adventure, join a guided bike ride through the city and the scenic Parc de l’Orangerie.
- Start your day in Ludwigshafen, your gateway to discovery. Explore Heidelberg’s iconic castle and charming Old Town, visit historic Speyer and its grand cathedral, or cycle to medieval Ladenburg. Later, sail to Rüdesheim to visit Siegfried’s Mechanical Instrument Cabinet or enjoy the town’s famous Rüdesheimer coffee.
- Enjoy the beauty of Rüdesheim with a wine tasting or a gondola ride to the Niederwalddenkmal for sweeping vineyard views. Active travelers can hike or bike along the Rhine before cruising through the breathtaking UNESCO-designated Rhine Gorge to Lahnstein for an exclusive evening visit to Lahneck Castle.
- Cruise to Cologne and explore its enchanting Old Town on a guided tour, visiting landmarks like the Cologne Rathaus, the 12th-century Fischmarkt, and the Great St. Martin Church. Conclude with a taste of the city’s signature Kölsch beer, or opt for an active bike ride along the Rhine and through the historic Stadtgarten.
- Cruise along Amsterdam’s iconic canals, or savor local flavors on a guided tour that winds past gabled houses, narrow bridges, and houseboats, with a tasting of Dutch specialties at a grand café.
- Bid farewell to Amsterdam as you prepare for your return flight home.
Your Itinerary
Day 1 - Basel
Read More
Read Less
Day 2 - Basel
Read More
Read Less
Day 3 - Strasbourg
Read More
Read Less
Day 4 - Ludwigshafen
Read More
Read Less
Day 5 - Rüdesheim
Read More
Read Less
Day 6 - Cologne
Read More
Read Less
Day 7 - Amsterdam
Read More
Read Less
Day 8 - Amsterdam
Read More
Read Less
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