So... Where we going?
We'll be starting in Amsterdam, the Netherlands, ending in Basel, Switzerland!
Amsterdam, The Netherlands
Amsterdam, is a captivating tapestry of historic charm and contemporary flair. Its iconic canals weave through the city like veins, lined by picturesque canal houses with colorful facades and leaning gables, exuding an old-world allure. Amidst the streets, vibrant neighborhoods pulses with creativity, from the trendy boutiques and cafes to the eclectic energy it is sure to feed your travel desires. And with having 2 days in port you will have ample time to explore all the intricacies that Amsterdam has to offer.
Cologne/Dusseldorf, Germany
Enjoy a scenic cruise into Düsseldorf. In the afternoon, take a brief trip to the nearby city of Cologne on a guided tour of its enchanting Old Town, where you will see sites such as the Cologne Rathaus, Germany’s oldest town hall; the Fishmarket, which dates back to the 12th century and the Great St. Martin Church. Then visit one of Europe’s largest and most renowned Christmas Markets. Or explore historic Düsseldorf on foot with a knowledgeable local tour guide. Then, be treated to a tasting of Altbier, a clean and crisp beer developed in Düsseldorf that is crafted using traditional brewing techniques. Conclude the tour with a visit to the local Christmas Market. Alternatively, cover more ground with an active bike tour of the city.
Rhine Gorge/Rüdesheim, Germany
Cruise through the castleladen Rhine River Gorge before reaching the winemaking town of Rüdesheim. Once in Rüdesheim, you will have four choices of morning excursions. Wine connoisseurs will want to go to a wine cellar for a wine tasting followed by a Christmas Market visit to enjoy holiday traditions from around the world. Or go on a hike through the vineyards. Alternatively, you can take a peaceful ride over the vineyards on Rüdesheim’s gondola followed by a visit to the Christmas Market. You may also opt to join a guided bike tour through the town and along the Rhine River before visiting the Christmas Market. Later in the day, you can visit Siegfried’s Mechanical Instrument Cabinet, or taste one of the town’s special delights, Rüdesheimer coffee.
Ludwigshafen, Germany
You have the choice to explore two of Germany’s historically rich cities, along with their festive Christmas Markets. Visit Heidelberg, a city that will capture your heart with its mighty castle and historic university. While here, wander along one of Europe’s longest pedestrian shopping streets, the Hauptstrasse, soaking up the Yuletide celebrations at the town’s Christmas Markets. Or hike along the Neckar River on the historic Philosopher’s Path followed by free time to enjoy the Christmas Markets. Alternatively, you can bike along the Neckar River to the medieval town of Ladenburg and visit its Marktplatz, or explore one of Germany’s oldest cities, Speyer, known for the largest Romanesque cathedral in Europe—a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll also have time to visit its Christmas Market in front of the “Old Mint” (Alten Münze) in the famous Maximilianstrasse, with a view of the romantic Imperial cathedral.
Strasbourg, France
Strasbourg is even more alluring during the season of Advent. The Christkindelsmärik dates back to 1570, making it the oldest Christmas Market in France. Enjoy a panoramic bus tour that takes you past the Parc de l’Orangerie, the European Parliament and the Place de la Republique. Afterwards, walk through the historic town center on the Grande Île, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and through the lovely “La Petite France” district, where you will see the Cathédrale de Nôtre Dame with its famous astronomical clock and then visit the town’s famous Christmas Market. You can also choose to explore Strasbourg’s different districts by bicycle. Later in the day, opt to visit Gengenbach’s Christmas Markets and the town’s famous illuminated town hall Advent calendar.
Breisach, Germany or Colmer, France
Breisach is your gateway to several different excursions. Journey into medieval Colmar, located in the enchanting Alsace region of France. Delight in the half-timbered houses lining the cobblestone streets as you take in the whimsical blend of French and German culture and the town’s wonderful Christmas Markets. Alternatively, head to Freiburg, founded in 1120 and home to the Freiburg’s Münster, a Gothic cathedral said to have “the most beautiful spire on earth.” Then enjoy free time at the Freiburg Christmas Markets. Those wishing a more active excursion can cycle through Breisach’s countryside.
Basel, Switzerland
Today is unfortunately the last day of the cruise, but you end in yet another gorgeous town. As you begin the journey back home I encourage you to send some time exploring Basel. Basel, is a vibrant city where history, culture, and innovation converge. Renowned for its thriving art scene, Basel is home to over 40 museums, including the prestigious Art Basel, showcasing a diverse range of artistic expressions from around the world. Its well-preserved Old Town boasts medieval architecture, charming squares, and narrow cobblestone streets, providing a picturesque backdrop for leisurely strolls and cultural discoveries. Beyond its artistic allure, Basel is a hub of commerce and education, with world-leading pharmaceutical companies and a renowned university contributing to its dynamic atmosphere. Whether exploring its cultural treasures, indulging in gourmet delights, or simply soaking in the scenic beauty of the Rhine, Basel offers a multifaceted experience that captivates visitors from near and far.
✨I am SO glad you asked!✨
Family-owned and-operated, AmaWaterways prides itself on its passion for river cruising and ensuring every guest is welcomed on board as family, with a high staff-to-guest ratio offering genuine, personalized service. Renowned for its professional and caring onboard crew, exquisite cuisine, enriching themed cruises and luxurious onboard amenities, an AmaWaterways river cruise is much more than a vacation…it’s a collection of unforgettable travel experiences.
AmaWaterways received the highest rating in the first, second and third editions of the Berlitz: River Cruising in Europe travel guide. The company’s European fleet also dominated the top 20 rankings in the latest edition of Insight Guides, securing the coveted No. 1 spot with AmaMagna and underscoring its position as an innovative industry pioneer and provider of unparalleled river cruise experiences. AmaWaterways ships have consistently outranked the competition based on accommodations, dining, service and other onboard features.
Everything that AmaWaterways does it perfected. Whether you're eating a 5 star level meal, exploring the quaint towns of central Europe, or sleeping on some of the most comfortable beds in the industry, once you're on board you'll understand why so many people return to AmaWaterways to gain those unforgettable memories.
👀 Where do you want to rest and rejuvenate? 👀
All staterooms on-board the AmaLucia have:
🥵 🥶 In-room temperature control
🚿 Spacious bathrooms with multi-jet shower heads
🪞 Large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe and direct-dial telephone
📺 Flat-screen TV
🎬 Entertainment on Demand system providing complimentary TV, movies and music library
🥛 Complimentary bottled water replenished daily
🛜 Complimentary internet and Wi-Fi
📌 Desk and chair
Violin Deck
This stunning stateroom boasts both a French Balcony, and an Outside Balcony, a wonderful bathtub to have a nice warm bath, as well as the largest stateroom on board with 350 square feet! 🤩
Violin Deck
This stunning stateroom boasts both a French Balcony, and an Outside Balcony as well as 235 square feet!
Violin Deck
This stunning stateroom boasts both a French Balcony, and an Outside Balcony as well as 210 square feet.
Cello Deck
This stunning stateroom boasts both a French Balcony, and an Outside Balcony as well as 210 square feet.
Violin and Cello Decks
This stunning stateroom has beautiful views of the countryside with a French Balcony as well as 170 square feet.
Violin Deck
This stunning stateroom has beautiful views of the countryside with a French Balcony as well as 155 square feet.
Piano Deck
This stateroom has small upper window views and comes with the premier comfort that Ama is known for, as well as 160 square feet.
🤯 What's included in the price!? 🤯
AmaWaterways realizes that you all have different tastes, so they've developed a diverse menu of included shore excursions to accommodate all travelers with a personalized experience in every port of call. In many destinations, you’ll be free to choose from one of several tours — all of which are included in your cruise fare. There’s always a city tour designed to show you the renowned highlights and landmarks in grand capitals and charming villages alike!
All meals on board the ship are included in the cruise price. Sparkling wine and juices at breakfast; beer, soft drinks and unlimited wines at lunch and dinner (new selections daily); a Sip & Sail cocktail hour with a selection of complimentary wine, beer and spirits; plus, gourmet coffee, tea and bottled water 24/7.
At any time during your cruise you can indulge in unlimited coffee, tea, and bottled water. So, whether you need a little help waking up, or sip some hot tea to warm the soul before bed, no need to spend any extra!
While on-board the AmaLucia, you will have access to complimentary WiFi provided by AmaWaterways! No need to worry about being disconnected from friends or family during your cruise!
AmaWaterways knows how remembering to drink water can be difficult. As well has how expensive just a few water bottles can become while on vacation. So, they will provide guests with a replacement water bottle in their room every day of the cruise! But also, don't forget! At any time if you need more water bottles, they are complimentary while on board!
In short, I take all the stress of planning, researching, booking, answering questions, and the logistics of vacationing and leave you with the pure enjoyment and excitement!
For this cruise in particular, my husband and I will be joining, so if you are a first time client you can rest assured this will be the holiday experience of a lifetime. If you are a returning client, I cannot wait to meet all of you and join in making these incredible memories! I am so ecstatic to be partnering with AmaWaterways to bring you, what I think is, the most incredible Christmas cruise anyone could be a part of! With this partnership I can offer you the best deals on staterooms onboard the stunning AmaLucia river cruise ship. Whether you and your family are looking for a Fixed Window stateroom, or are looking for picturesque views of the European countryside as we glide down the Rhine in a luxury Suite with French Balcony, or anything in between, my job is to make sure you get exactly what you want!