Discover the beauty, history, and culture of Europe’s Rhine River on this luxurious journey, as we explore the highlights of this unforgettable itinerary. From Amsterdam’s iconic canals to the fairytale castles of the Rhine Gorge, this cruise offers an incredible way to experience Europe in style.
Schedule a call with us, we’ll cover all the details of this 7-night cruise, including the charming towns and vibrant cities along the route, onboard amenities, and optional pre- and post-cruise extensions in Amsterdam, Lake Lucerne, and Zurich. This is your chance to get insider insights into the AmaWaterways experience and learn about exclusive group opportunities, making this an ideal trip for friends, family, or solo travelers looking to connect.
Don’t miss out on this opportunity to explore the best of European river cruising with AmaWaterways. We look forward to seeing you there!
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. Discover Breisach, rising above the vineyards of the Rhine, and Freiburg, one of Germany’s sunniest cities and gateway to the Black Forest. 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.
EXCURSION OVERVIEW:
DAY 1 - EMBARKATION
DAY 2 - AMSTERDAM
Canal cruise tour Scenic cruising out of Amsterdam
Day 3 - COLOGNE/DUSSELDORF
Cologne walking tour
OR Düsseldorf walking tour and Altbier tasting
OR Düsseldorf Bike tour
DAY 4 - RHINE GORGE/RUDESHIEM
Morning: Sailing past Castles along the Rhine scenic cruising
Afternoon:
Rüdesheim wine tasting
OR Gondola ride
OR Vineyards hike
OR Guided bike tour of the Rheingau Siegfried’s Mechanical Instrument Cabinet
OR Rüdesheimer Coffee
DAY 5 - LUDWIGSHAFEN
“Romantic Heidelberg” excursion
OR “Secrets of Speyer” tour
OR Heidelberg Philosopher’s hike
OR Ladenburg bike tour
DAY 6 - STRASBOURG
“The Gem of Alsace” tour
OR Strasbourg bike tour
DAY 7 - BREISACH
Colmar walking tour
OR Freiburg excursion
OR Black Forest hike
OR Breisach wine country bike tour
DAY 8 - DISEMBARKATION
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Optional Pre-Cruise Extension: 2 Nights in Amsterdam
Begin your Rhine River journey with an optional 2-night stay in the enchanting city of Amsterdam. Known for its picturesque canals, historic architecture, and vibrant culture, Amsterdam offers a delightful prelude to your river cruise adventure. This pre-cruise extension allows you to explore the city’s iconic sights, including the renowned Rijksmuseum, where you can view masterpieces by artists like Rembrandt and Vermeer. Wander through the historic Jordaan neighborhood, filled with charming boutiques, art galleries, and cozy cafés, or take a leisurely canal cruise to admire Amsterdam’s stunning waterways and 17th-century houses.
With plenty of time to experience the local atmosphere and sample traditional Dutch cuisine, this pre-cruise upgrade provides a perfect mix of sightseeing and relaxation, setting the tone for your scenic journey along the Rhine.
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Optional Post-Cruise Extension: 2 Nights in Lake Lucerne & 2 Nights in Zurich
Conclude your Rhine River cruise with an unforgettable 4-night post-cruise extension to Switzerland’s most picturesque destinations—Lake Lucerne and Zurich. Start with two nights along the tranquil shores of Lake Lucerne, where stunning Alpine views and crystal-clear waters provide a serene escape. Explore the charming Old Town, take a scenic boat ride on the lake, or ascend Mount Pilatus for panoramic vistas that showcase the best of Switzerland’s natural beauty.
Then, journey to Zurich for a vibrant blend of history, culture, and modern elegance. Stroll through the cobblestone streets of Zurich’s medieval Old Town, lined with boutique shops and art galleries, and visit renowned sites like the Swiss National Museum. With plenty of time to explore at your own pace, this post-cruise extension offers a perfect balance of relaxation and exploration, leaving you with lasting memories of Switzerland’s beauty and charm.
Day 1, AMSTERDAM. Board the ship in Amsterdam for your Captivating Rhine cruise.
Day 2, AMSTERDAM. There are 165 canals in Amsterdam, and you’ll get enjoy some of them on your canal cruise. Later in the day, set sail out of Amsterdam. (B,L,D)
Day 3, COLOGNE DÜSSELDORF. As a leading hub for German culture, commerce, and architecture, Düsseldorf is a mustvisit city for any travelers on the Rhine. Here, you will have multiple options for the day’s excursion. Explore this grand city on the Rhine by joining a walking tour, concluding with a tasting of Altbier, a local specialty brewed using traditional techniques. Alternatively, cover more ground with an active bike tour of the city. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a brief trip to the nearby city of Cologne. Join a guided tour through the enchanting Old Town, where you will see sites such as the Cologne Rathaus, Germany’s oldest town hall; the Fishmarkt, which dates back to the 12th century and the Great St. Martin Church. (B,L,D)
Day 4, RHINE GORGE RÜDESHEIM. Cruise through the captivating UNESCOdesignated Rhine Gorge, the most stunningly beautiful stretch of the river before reaching the winemaking town of Rüdesheim*. Join a wine tasting to discover the flavors of the town’s iconic vineyards. Or drink up the stunning views by soaring high above the vineyards with a gondola ride to the Niederwalddenkmal. For a more active adventure, hike through the town’s beautiful vineyards or join a guided bike tour along the scenic Rhine River. Later in the day, let Siegfried’s Mechanical Instrument Cabinet charm you with its remarkable collection of self-playing musical instruments; or taste one of the town’s special delights, Rüdesheimer coffee, ceremoniously made with brandy, coffee and whipped cream. (B,L,D)
Day 5, LUDWIGSHAFEN. Ludwigshafen is your gateway to a choice of 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 18thcentury, 49,000gallon wine cask. For a more active adventure while in Heidelberg, join a guided hike up the Philosopher’s Path, aptly named during the Romantic Period, and enjoy 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 Old Gate, Altpörtel. Or join a guided bike tour along the shores of the river Neckar and enjoy a cycling break to explore the picturesque medieval town of Ladenburg. (B,L,D)
Day 6, STRASBOURG. Strasbourg 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 before walking through its iconic “La Petite France” district, lifted straight from the pages of a fairytale. Wander through charming streets past the Cathédrale de Nôtre Dame with its famous astronomical clock. Alternatively, take a guided bike ride through the city and Parc de l’Orangerie. (B,L,D)
Day 7, BREISACH. Breisach is your gateway to several different excursions. Step back in time with a visit to the enchanting Alsatian town of Colmar, which looks almost the same as it did in the 16th century. On your walking tour, admire historic architecture and perhaps get a glimpse of the Statue of Liberty, a small replica of the famous version in New York, to commemorate the sculptor’s Colmar birthplace. 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.” Those wishing a more active excursion can cycle through the countryside, or hike in the Black Forest, a magical land full of cultural traditions. (B,L,D)
Day 8, BASEL. After breakfast, bid farewell to Switzerland and prepare for your return flight home. (B)
The elegant 156-passenger AmaSiena brought with her a sense of joy when she was christened in 2021. Vivid shades of red create an air of confidence throughout the Main Restaurant while bold floral patterns are sprinkled throughout the ship, from her spacious twin-balcony staterooms to her Main Lounge, with its floor-to-ceiling windows offering exceptional views of the castles along the Rhine River and the iconic windmills and pastures of Holland and Belgium. Her airy Sun Deck offers a walking track, pool with swim-up bar and ever-changing views of the scenery – even as you participate in a complimentary fitness class. And her Chef’s Table specialty restaurant offers a subtle elegance that allows each dish of its exquisite regionally inspired tasting menu to shine. Discover all of these delights and more on board AmaSiena.
The Captivating Rhine cruise from AmaWaterways is more than just a journey; it's an immersion into the heart of Europe’s most historic and picturesque regions. This 7-night voyage takes you along the legendary Rhine River, where every stop unveils a new layer of cultural richness. From the iconic windmills of Kinderdijk to the storybook castles of Rüdesheim, this cruise is a gateway to Northern Europe’s stunning landscapes and heritage.
Designed for those who appreciate history, art, and architecture, each port offers a unique adventure—from exploring the charming medieval streets of Strasbourg to tasting local wines in the vineyards of Rüdesheim. Along the way, AmaWaterways' exceptional service and thoughtfully curated excursions ensure a travel experience that is as comfortable as it is memorable. Whether it’s the scenic cruise through the Rhine Gorge or the vibrant canals of Amsterdam, every day brings new opportunities to explore, savor, and enjoy.
Embark on more than just a river cruise—join our exclusive group for an unforgettable journey along the enchanting Rhine River with AmaWaterways. This 7-night hosted cruise immerses you in Europe’s most iconic destinations, where timeless landscapes and historic towns blend seamlessly. From the charming windmills of Kinderdijk to the fairytale castles dotting the Rhine Gorge, each stop invites you to experience the cultural richness of this legendary river.
Perfect for history enthusiasts, wine lovers, and those captivated by scenic beauty, this group adventure promises memorable excursions at every port. Wander through the medieval streets of Strasbourg, sample local wines in Rüdesheim’s renowned vineyards, and explore the vibrant canals of Amsterdam. With exclusive group activities and AmaWaterways’ award-winning service, this hosted cruise is crafted to ensure a uniquely comfortable, enriching, and social travel experience. Join us as we journey through stunning landscapes and create memories that will last a lifetime.
As part of AmaWaterways inclusion pricing, we’re happy to share the following inclusions with your river cruise:
Savor exquisite cuisine at a variety of dining venues, like the Main Restaurant and The Chef’s Table. You can also order delicious tapas between meals in the Main Lounge.
With fewer guests on board, you can enjoy the luxury of space to unwind, relax and reconnect with your loved ones. Our public areas, including lounges and restaurants, are never overcrowded.
After a marvelous day of immersive shore excursions, return to the ship and treat yourself to a bit of pampering with a soothing massage.
Each AmaWaterways European river cruise ship typically features four distinct decks, each thoughtfully designed to enhance your journey along Europe’s legendary rivers. The uppermost level, the Sun Deck, is a favorite among guests, with comfortable lounge chairs, awnings, and shaded areas for relaxation. A walking track allows you to stretch your legs while enjoying panoramic views, and there’s often a dedicated space for outdoor games, as well as the Captain’s helm—a unique touch for those interested in seeing navigation up close.
Below the Sun Deck, Decks Two and Three are home to the majority of the staterooms, offering French balconies, outside balconies, or a combination for stunning, unobstructed river views. These decks also house essential guest areas, including the welcoming reception, a spacious dining room where guests can enjoy gourmet meals, the main lounge with ample seating for social gatherings or evening entertainment, and other guest services to meet your needs throughout the cruise. Finally, on the Lower Deck, a few cozy standard cabins with windows are available, offering comfortable accommodations with all the amenities you’d expect from AmaWaterways, just steps from the heart of each vibrant port.
Learn More from our About Us page.
Launching her travel career in the mid-1990s, Shelley has experienced a variety of industry changes. She has spent the last 20 years dedicated to leisure travel for her clients.
After two decades in investment real estate management, William joined Shelley in early 2021 and has since dedicated his entire travel career as a river cruise specialist.