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Ehrenfels Castle on Rhine River near Rudesheim

The Enchanting Rhine - From Basel to Amsterdam

Example 8 Day Cruise aboard MS Amalucia
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This 8-day journey reveals the hidden treasures and magnificent gems of the Rhine, one of Europe´s  most fascinating rivers. Explore splendid cities and charming villages nestled between Basel and Amsterdam, home to timeless traditions that still remain intact. Enjoy daily excursions with a large variety of activities so that you can choose how you want to explore this marvelous region.
Cruise through BaselView from the harbour of Basel, SwitzerlandInternational Lyceum of Pontonniers in StrasbourgCologne, GermanyBicycles on a bridge over the canal.Ehrenfels Castle on Rhine River near Rudesheim
Highlights
  • Enjoy a panoramic tour of Strasbourg, home to The Grand Île
  • Experience a guided hike up the Philosopher's Path
  • Bike along the Rhine and through the scenic Rüdesheim
  • Take a scenic cruise of Amsterdam's canals, followed by a walk to Begijnhof
Activities
Activity Level: Variable
Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.
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Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Basel, Switzerland | Embark

Board the ship in Basel for your Enchanting Rhine cruise.

Day 2: Breisach, Germany

Breisach is your gateway to several different excursions, depending on your interests. Step back in time with a visit to the enchanting Alsatian town of Riquewihr, which looks almost the same as it did in the 16th century. On your walking tour, admire historic architecture as well as famous sights, such as the Dolder Gate. Alternatively, you may wish to go to Freiburg, founded in 1120 and home to the Freiburg’s Münster, a Gothic cathedral said to have “the most beautiful spire on earth.” Those wishing a more active excursion can cycle through the scenic countryside, or go on a hike to the Black Forest, a magical land full of cultural traditions.

*Please Note: Black forest hike is weather dependent and may only operate at certain times of year. Please refer to your final documents for details.

Day 3: Strasbourg, France

Strasbourg, the capital city of Alsace, offers flavors of both France and Germany because of its borderline location. Enjoy a panoramic tour past the stunning Parc de l’Orangerie, the European Parliament and the Place de la République. Then walk through its iconic UNESCO World Heritage “La Petite France” district, which appears to have been lifted straight from the pages of a fairytale. Wander through these charming streets and past the Cathédrale de Nôtre Dame with its famous astronomical clock. For the active adventurer, you can take a guided bike ride through this captivating city and Parc de l’Orangerie. 

Day 4: Ludwigshafen, Germany | Rüdesheim

Today choose between three excursions. Visit Heidelberg, the perfectly preserved medieval city nestled in the Neckar River Valley along Germany’s Castle Road. Discover the iconic red sandstone Heidelberg Castle and Great Vat, an 18th-century 49,000-gallon wine cask. For a more active adventure while in Heidelberg, join a guided hike up the Philosopher's Path and be rewarded with panoramic views of the city. Alternatively, you can visit one of Germany’s oldest cities, Speyer, known for the largest Romanesque cathedral in Europe—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—and the medieval Altpörtel, Old Gate. Later in the day, set sail to Rüdesheim, where you have the opportunity to visit Siegfried's Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum or enjoy a tasting of Rüdesheimer coffee, ceremoniously made with brandy.

Day 5: Rüdesheim | Rhine Gorge | Lahnstein

Your exploration of Rüdesheim continues with your choice of three excursions. Take a gondola ride to the Niederwalddenkmal Statue, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the river. Afterwards, indulge your taste buds with a sampling of Riesling wines in the vineyards. If you prefer a more active adventure, hike through Rüdesheim’s vineyards, taking in views of the town, the Roman Bridge and Bromersburg Castle. Or join a guided bike ride through the town and along the Rhine River. During the afternoon, set sail along the scenic Rhine River Gorge with its fabled legends and many castles to Lahnstein where you’ll enjoy a visit to Lahneck Castle. 

Day 6: Cologne

Home to one of Germany’s most revered Gothic masterpieces, the Cologne Cathedral, this 2,000-year-old city is also a bustling cosmopolitan hotspot. Join a guided tour through the enchanting Old Town and explore the UNESCO-designated cathedral, where the remains of the fabled Three Kings—the Magi— are believed to rest. Alternatively, ride a bike along the Rhine and through the historic Stadtgarten; or visit a local tavern to taste Kölsch beer and reibekuchen mit apfelmus—potato pancakes served with applesauce. 

Day 7: Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Amsterdam boasts amazing history, art, architecture, and museums, and you have a choice as to how you wish to explore it. The famous canals of Amsterdam await discovery on your city tour beginning with a scenic canal cruise. If you prefer exploring the world with your taste buds, stroll past traditional canals, gabled houses, narrow bridges and house boats to taste Dutch specialties at a grand Amsterdam café.

*Depending on docking location, A Taste of Amsterdam may not operate; therefore, an alternative tour will operate instead.

Day 8: Amsterdam, The Netherlands | Disembark

  • 1 Breakfast
Bid Farewell to Amsterdam and prepare for your homeward flight.

Ship/Hotel

MS Amalucia

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Interior

Dates & Prices

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Deals

Special Offer 23329
For a limited time, new reservations receive a complimentary 2-, 3-, or 4-night land package before or after select 2024 and 2025 Europe river cruises! This primotion is subject to availability and applies to select departures only. Additional restrictions may apply. Please contact us for details.
 
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Holiday Triple Savings 24453
Book your Europe holiday cruise by June 30, 2024, and save $2,000 per stateroom, plus
receive a complimentary stateroom upgrade and a $100 per stateroom onboard credit on select 2025 holiday departures. This promotion is subject to availability, and it is capacity-controlled. Additional restrictions may apply. Please contact us for details.
Applies to Nov 20, 2025 departure

Per person starting at
$2,599 2-3 travelers
Category D
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E
160 square feet. 4 cabins on Piano Deck, fixed windows.
Category E
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D
160 square feet. 8 cabins on Piano Deck, fixed windows.
Category CB
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CB
155 square feet. 4 cabins on Violin Deck, French balcony.
Category CA
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CA
170 square feet. 14 cabins on Violin and Cello Deck, French balcony.
Category BB
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BB
210 square feet. 15 cabins on Cello Deck, French balcony and outside balcony.
Category BA
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BA
210 square feet. 12 cabins on Violin Deck, French balcony and outside balcony.
Category AB
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AB
235 square feet. 10 cabins on Cello Deck, French balcony and outside balcony.
Category AA
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AA
235 square feet. 8 cabins on Violin Deck, French balcony and outside balcony.
Category Suite
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Suite
350 square feet. 4 cabins on Violin Deck, French balcony and outside balcony, mini-bar, sofa and two chairs, expansive bathroom with bathtub and separate shower.
Included
  • 7 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 7 Dinners
  • 7 Nights Accommodations
  • Accommodations as listed
  • Ground transportation as listed
  • Activities as listed
  • Meals as listed
  • Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
  • Onboard Entertainment 
  • Bottled water replenished daily
  • Personalized service from a highly trained Cruise Manager during both cruise and land programs
  • Beverages: Unlimited fine wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner.
  • Beverages: Unlimited sparkling wine and fresh juice with breakfast
  • Personal headset for excursions. 
  • Captain’s Welcome Cocktail and Gala Dinner
  • Knowledgeable guides
  • Internet and Wi-Fi access
  • Sip & Sail Daily Cocktail Hour with complimentary wine, beer, spirits and soft drinks
Excluded
  • Gratuities
  • Travel Insurance
  • Personal Expenses
  • Flight costs (please request a quote)
  • Additional excursions during free time
  • Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
  • Passport and Applicable Visa Expenses
  • Laundry 
  • Port Fees

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Beyond expectations! Then again we weren't sure what to expect. Lovely stay at the lodge, met other like-minded travelers (many had their trips planned by Adventure Life) and the owner was a gracious hostess. It felt like you were one happy family, visiting with a favorite aunt.
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