8 day river cruise amsterdam to basel

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River Cruises from Amsterdam to Basel

Discover river cruises that depart from Amsterdam and end in Basel. Cruises from Amsterdam to Basel are most popular in May, with the most cruises doing this route then.

41 River cruises from Amsterdam to Basel with 187 reviews

• River Cruise

Romantic Rhine (Southbound) 2024

We felt very welcomed at all times and were not pressured into taking any of the excursions.

Reflections on the Rhine (Southbound)

Romantic Rhine with 1 Night in Amsterdam (Southbound) 2024

The Rhine & Moselle (Southbound) 2025

• Christmas & New Year

Rhine Castles & Swiss Alps 2024 Start Amsterdam, End Basel

Fantastic trip all staff amazing

Remarkable Rhine & Historic Holland (2025) (Amsterdam to Basel, 2025)

From Amsterdam to Basel: The Treasures of the Celebrated Rhine River (port-to-port cruise)

Excellent facilities and services. Food was very good and cabins were large with plenty of space

Romantic Rhine (Southbound) 2025

Rhine & Moselle Fairytales 2024

Castles along the Rhine (2024) (Amsterdam to Basel SS Victoria, 2024)

Festive Time on the Romantic Rhine (Southbound) 2024

The Rhine & Moselle (Southbound) 2024

Captivating Rhine 2025

The cruise experience has not failed me a bit. Am recommending it to more friends.

Remarkable Rhine & Historic Holland (2024) (Amsterdam to Basel, 2024)

• Wine tasting

Romantic Rhine for Wine Lovers (Southbound)

What people love about river cruise tours from amsterdam to basel.

It was a great cruise. The food was amazing, the crew was really helpful, and the tours and tour guides were great. The only thing to imporve on if the WiFi which only worked half the time.

Good value with excellent service and food

Travel Styles

River cruise from amsterdam.

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From Amsterdam to Basel: The Treasures of the Celebrated Rhine River (port-to-port cruise)

AMSTERDAM - NIJMEGEN  - COLOGNE - KOBLENZ - MAINZ - STRASBOURG - BREISACH - BASEL

From Amsterdam to Basel, embark on a cruise rich in history and authenticity. Discover historic monuments through cities such as Haarlem or Colmar and its Unterlinden museum. You can take a stroll to the Arnhem Open Air Museum, which reveals a 100-year-old story.

CRUISE HIGHLIGHTS

• From Holland to the Three Countries Bridge, discover a singular blend of nature and culture
• Amsterdam and its unique atmosphere
• Delightful scents and springtime colors at the Keukenhof floral gardens (1)
• Haarlem, the golden age of the 17th century
• Colmar and the Unterlinden Museum(3)

THE CROISIEUROPE DIFFERENCE

• All meals included - DRINKS INCLUDED with meals and at the bar
• Refined French cuisine - Gala dinner and evening - Welcome cocktail
• Free Wi-Fi onboard
• Headsets are included for excursions
• Official welcome from the captain and crew
• Onboard activities
• Travel assistance and repatriation insurance
• All port fees included

Passengers are welcome to board our ship at 6 p.m. After comfortably settling into your cabins, we’ll introduce our crew at a welcome cocktail. We'll enjoy dinner on board.

This morning, join us for the optional excursions proposed: CLASSIC: Guided panoramic tour of Amsterdam. DISCOVERY: Bike tour of Amsterdam in search of its most secret and unique locations. In the afternoon, join us on an optional excursion for both packages: Visit the Keukenhof Gardens(1)(only on pre-booking before departure). Outside the opening dates of the park, guided tour of Haarlem. We'll return on board in Amsterdam for an evening of dancing. Our ship will cruise to Nijmegen through the night.

This morning, join us on an optional excursion for both packages: Guided tour of the open-air museum in Arnhem.

Our ship will cruise to  Cologne overnight. Enjoy an evening of entertainment.

Join us on an optional excursion for both packages: Guided tour of Cologne. Our cruise will then continue along the Rhine to Koblenz. In the evening, enjoy a stroll to see the famous Deutsches Eck.

We'll cruise up the most beautiful part of the Rhine River all the way to Mainz. Join us for the optional excursion proposed: Guided tour of Mainz and the Gutenberg Museum (closed on Mondays.) Enjoy an evening of dancing after dinner. Our ship will cruise to Strasbourg through the night.

We'll arrive in Strasbourg in the afternoon. Optional excursion for both packages: Boat tour of Strasbourg and a visit to its cathedral (only on pre-booking before departure). We'll return on board after our tour and cruise to Breisach. Tonight's our gala dinner and evening.

This afternoon, join us on an optional excursion for both packages: Guided tour of Colmar and the Unterlinden Museum(3). Afterwards, we'll cruise to Basel. Enjoy an evening of entertainment.

Enjoy one last buffet breakfast on board before disembarking at 9:00 a.m. End of our services.

Sales Useful info

Included : What you need to know before your departure

Not included Useful info

• Child discount (2-9 years) : - 20%

Shore Excursions

Mandatory information

Formalities Some administrative formalities to take into account in order to prepare your trip

Useful info

For navigational safety reasons, the company and the captain are the only authorized persons who can modify the cruise itinerary.

(1) Keukenhof garden will be open from March 21th to May 12th, 2024. The opening dates are subject to change by Keukenhof Flower Park.

(2) Optional excursions.

(3) The museum is closed on Tuesdays. It will be replaced by a visit to the Hansi Museum instead.

(4) The Port of Amsterdam may unexpectedly decide to change the mooring places for cruise ships. In case of modification, an alternative will be set up as close as possible to the city of Amsterdam.

Alcohol can be harmful to your health. Please drink in moderation.

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The Romantic Rhine: Amsterdam to Basel

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• 2024 Southbound
• 2025 Southbound
• Accommodations
• Pricing & Availability
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Uniquely Tauck

EXPERIENCE WITH TAUCK

TAUCK EXCLUSIVE – Dinner and entertainment at Schloss Ehreshoven, a German castle dating back to the 15th century

TAUCK VALUE INCLUDES

All gratuities to ship staff, drivers, local guides, Tauck Directors and Tauck Cruise Director

All private Tauck shore excursions and distinctive inclusions – $2,073 Value

Value Choices of bicycle excursions in Strasbourg & Koblenz

Scenic sailing through the historic castles & winelands of the Upper Middle Rhine Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

SEE WHAT YOUR JOURNEY INCLUDES

Guests should be able to easily walk one to two miles, which may include climbing one or two flights of stairs and walking over uneven pavement, groomed hiking trails or cobblestones. Standing up to one hour or more may be required.

Moderately paced, and may include some early morning hotel departures, one or two on-tour flights, and extended motor coach travel.

Exclusively inclusive river cruising

Along the river Rhine… where mountains rise abruptly from the water's edge, ancient castles perch aloft, keeping watch over comings and goings, gentle valleys and ancient winelands lure, spas give respite, cathedrals speak to powerful times, plains and woods catch the eye, and a river travels, connecting centuries of history, cities of the arts and crossroads of thought.

Tauck exclusive – evening at schloss ehreshoven, enjoy an elegant dinner and tour at schloss ehreshoven.

Built in the 14th century and later expanded in the grand style of a Baroque manor house, Schloss Ehreshoven is surrounded by gracious 18th-century French gardens and a castle park. For nearly a century the castle has been the heart of a charitable foundation whose main mission includes providing a home for unmarried aristocratic ladies without means in their golden years. Frequently used as a location for movies and TV shows, the Schloss provides an elegant setting for Tauck's exclusive cocktail reception and dinner, hosted by a member of the family.

By cog railway to Mt. Pilatus

To and from mt. pilatus by cogwheel train or gondola.

Since the 1880s, the world's steepest cogwheel train has been bringing travelers up and down Mt. Pilatus in Switzerland, climbing nearly 7,000 ft. from the edge of Lake Lucerne to the mountain's summit (Oberhaupt). On your visit to Lucerne, you'll take this thrilling ride that has you traveling upward at a 48° angle. Or, if the weather is uncooperative, you may make the ascent by gondola (cable car). Either way, getting there is definitely part of the fun, as you enjoy soaking up views of Alpine meadows and mountain streams, goats and flowers.

Old World Europe – Rhine River cruises

The officers and crew were totally outstanding professionals. we were treated like royalty. the tour directors were exceptionally knowledgeable, personable and great.

Tauck Traveler Review

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Ship Specifications

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Diamond Deck

(Note: All Category 7 cabins are three-guest capacity suites with a pull-out couch)

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Your Journey

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Southbound: Amsterdam → Basel

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About Booking This Tour

Travel Documents

If you are a U.S. citizen traveling internationally , you will need a passport valid for six months beyond the completion of your Tauck journey for entry into The Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland and France. You are not required to obtain a visa to enter any country visited for the short duration of this tour.

If you are a citizen of another country traveling internationally , you should contact a consulate or embassy of the Netherlands, Germany, Switzerland and France to determine what travel documentation is required.

Please Note: Longer stays abroad for any purpose may require additional travel documentation.

We recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your room while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents are misplaced, lost or stolen.

To facilitate Travel Requirements, destinations are increasingly utilizing online forms that require digital proof that you've successfully completed your submission (via an email, QR code, etc.) To ensure smooth travels and peace of mind, we strongly recommend all guests carry a personal smart phone and sign up for international data plans before traveling overseas.

Cruise Regulations – International maritime security guidelines require that your passport information be provided to us prior to your embarkation. You need to provide this information to us as soon as you book your cruise or boarding may be denied. Once you board the riverboat, your passport will be held by the purser temporarily to make copies.

TRAVELING WITH CHILDREN AS A GUARDIAN: If you are traveling as the guardian of a child/children, we strongly suggest that you carry a letter from both parents of the child authorizing emergency treatment in the event of illness or accident. For travel abroad, many foreign countries have specific entry requirements for children under 21 who are traveling internationally without BOTH parents. (These requirements are in response to the increased incidence of children being abducted and taken abroad.) PLEASE NOTE THAT TAUCK IS NOT RESPONSIBLE for the disruption of travel caused by improper documentation for children traveling without both parents.

How to Book a Tour

See your travel advisor, or call Tauck at 800-468-2825 to make a reservation.

At the time of booking, please have the following information ready for all members of your party:

• Tour Name and Departure Date
• Traveler's Name: First and last names as they appear on your passport or driver's license
• Traveler's Address(es)
• Email Address*
• Traveler's Phone Number(s)*
• Emergency Contact Information: Please provide the name and phone number  of a relative or friend (not travelling with you) whom we could contact during the tour in the unlikely event of an emergency
• Interest in purchasing a travel protection plan (US and Canada)
• Interest in extending your trip by staying in a Tauck recommended hotel before your trip begins or after it ends
• Interest in our specially negotiated airfares

* Required Fields

Deposits & Final Payment

The deposit and the fees for the optional Protection Plan or Cancel Fee Waiver [CFW] coverage are due at time of booking.

The deposit amount is $900 per person

Final Payments:

Final Payment is due to Tauck  60  days before departure for lands trips, and  120  days before departure for cruises and rail journeys. If your deposit was made by credit card, final payment will be automatic unless you opted out at time of booking. Bookings without full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice. Failure to make payment will be a considered a cancellation by the guest and all applicable cancellation fees will apply.

Cruise Protection Plan

Effective for plans purchased as of July 1, 2021:

Tauck's Cruise and Event Protection

Tauck's Cruise & Event Protection provides you with cancellation protection before your journey begins as well as insurance benefits while you are traveling. It must be purchased within 10 days of your initial deposit. Guest Protection includes the following:

Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck:

Under Tauck's Cancellation Fee Waiver you can cancel your tour for ANY REASON and Tauck will  reduce the regular cancellation fees outlined herein, provided we are notified of cancellation before your cruise departs. Certain terms and restrictions apply (see below*).

*Extreme Circumstances:  In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey.  Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company.

• Trip Cancellation –  Should you cancel for covered reasons, the plan reimburses cancellation fees imposed, up to your total trip cost. 
• Trip Interruption –  If you have to interrupt your tour for covered reasons, the plan provides reimbursement to catch up to your tour or return home.
• Travel Delay –  Provides reimbursement for missed, prepaid travel arrangements if you are delayed by a common carrier, natural disaster, unannounced strike, or other reasons as cited in the plan.
• Medical Expense –  Reimburses covered medical expenses incurred in the event you become injured or sick during your trip. 
• Baggage / Personal Effects Protection –  Provides reimbursement in the event your luggage or personal effects are, lost, stolen, damaged or delayed during your trip.

Worldwide Emergency Assistance Services –  Provided by Carefree Travel Assistance; 24-hour emergency telephone assistance hotline for medical and travel related problems.

The cost of Tauck's Cruise and Event Protection is:   $799   per person

This plan provides cancellation coverage for your trip and other insurance coverages that apply only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

This optional Cruise and Event Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included in initial payment. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your reservation. Cruise and Event Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.

To obtain your state-specific Certificate of Insurance that contains the complete terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the certificate, visit  affinitytravelcert.com/docs/TACCREINTL

If You Have To Cancel

If you cancel within 10 days of initial deposit

Within the first 10 days after you place your initial deposit, you may cancel your reservation for any reason with no cancellation fees.

If you cancel more than 10 days after initial deposit

Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. These fees vary from tour to tour. Therefore, the following fees apply for this tour.

Cancellation Fees with Tauck's Cruise Protection Plan:

120 days or more before departure: Loss of cost of Tauck's Cruise and Event Protection fee per person 119 – 60 days before departure: Loss of 25% of the cost of the cruise, not including air (if applicable), plus loss of Cruise and Event Protection fee, per person 59 – 1 days before departure: Loss of 50% of the cost of the cruise, not including air (if applicable), plus loss of Cruise and Event Protection fee, per person Cancellation Fees without Tauck's Cruise Protection Plan: 120 days or more before departure: $900 per person 119 – 60 days before departure: Loss of 50% of the cost of cruise, not including air (if applicable), per person 59 - 1 days before departure: Loss of 100% of the cost of cruise, not including air (if applicable), per person Time of cancellation will be when notice is received in our Wilton Woods, CT office.

Tour Interruption Fees

If you have to interrupt your tour en route, you may be entitled to a refund for the unused land portion if it exceeds 24 hours; certain restrictions apply. Such refunds are based upon the number of overnights missed less a fee of $40 per person per day for unused transportation and other fixed expenses.

Partial Room Cancellation

A person who cancels or leaves a tour while a roommate remains constitutes a cancellation of one type of accommodation and rebooking of another type of accommodation. The price charged to the remaining person is the new, higher price for the new accommodation.

In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control, Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation and transfer terms outlined herein. Note: All Guests, regardless of residency, who book a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing the Cancellation Waiver provided by Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck's Cruise & Event Protection, which includes both the Cancellation Fee Waiver and the Travel Insurance Benefits and Assistance Services described above, is not available to residents of Puerto Rico.

Travel Terms and Conditions

Click here  to find Tauck's Travel Terms & Conditions.

Travel Requirements For This Tour

Air Information and Luggage Restrictions

AIRFARE: Airfare to and from this destination is not included in the journey cost. If purchasing your air elsewhere, it is very important to provide us with your confirmed arriving and departing flight information no later than 3 weeks before your arrival date. Flight information can be submitted to Tauck (or verified, if you've already provided it) in the My Account section of Tauck.com.

TAUCK AIRPORT TRANSFERS are included at the start and end of the journey between the airport and the Tauck hotel. Airport transfers are available for any pre tour or post tour hotel stays immediately consecutive to the tour, providing flight information is received in the Tauck office no later than three weeks in advance. Details on locating your transfer upon arrival to the tour start city will be included in your final documents.

AIRLINES and CHECKED LUGGAGE: Due to space limitations during your Tauck journey, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one average-size suitcase per person. Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and are free to revise luggage policies without notice. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies. PLEASE NOTE that if you are booked on a tour that includes on-tour flights, the checked luggage weight restrictions for these flights may be lower than the weight restrictions for your international flights.

Checked Luggage – General

Due to space restrictions, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one suitcase per person weighing no more than 50 pounds (23 kg) and with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 62 inches (158 cm).

Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and luggage exceeding airline standards for size or weight may result in expensive overage fees or other consequences.

Airlines are free to revise luggage policies without notice, and certain airlines have different baggage allowances for different classes of service. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies.

Tauck luggage tags will be provided by your Tauck Director on Day 1 of your itinerary. Please do not attach a Tauck luggage tag to any carry-on items, as the Tauck tags designate luggage that is to be handled and transferred by ground operators and hotel staff during your journey.

Although oversize bags and wheeled, carry-on luggage are popular for airline travel, they are often not convenient or appropriate for motor coach travel or for many on-tour flights. Most modern sightseeing motor coaches offer limited space for numerous or larger items. Space under seats or in the overhead rack is typically small, and designed to accommodate items like coats, hats, purses, and small camera bags, etc.

For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece, and that you bring only those items you need handy during the day such as make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or on the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may be inaccessible during daytime travel.

Health, Safety and Mobility

HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS

Your riverboat is registered in Basel, Switzerland. MS Inspire is registered in Valletta Malta. Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour. Please refer to the Tauck Travel Protection Product section above for details on the coverage we can offer you.

If you have a medical condition that might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and notify us as soon as possible, if you have not already done so. We will advise your Tauck Director accordingly.

VACCINATIONS

If you are a resident of the U.S. , no vaccinations are currently required for travel to the Netherlands, Germany, France or Switzerland. For complete vaccination and inoculation information, contact your physician, the public health service in your area, or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Atlanta, Georgia by clicking here .

If you are a resident of another country , please contact an embassy or consulate of the Netherlands, Germany, France and  Switzerland to determine what vaccination(s) may be required for you to visit.

While a cruise from Amsterdam to Basel is very relaxing and the pace leisurely, to enjoy all the cruise has to offer, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances, often over unpaved and uneven surfaces. Some of the most memorable sightseeing can only be accomplished on foot. There is a moderate to significant amount of walking during our excursions, often along cobblestone streets, and at many sites there are multiple stairs or steps; for the most part, however, the amount of walking you do is at your discretion.

Your riverboat has four decks: Sun, Diamond, Ruby and Emerald. The elevator runs between the Diamond Deck and Emerald Deck; there is not elevator access to the Sun Deck. There is no chair lift between any of the decks.

Because you will be cruising on a river and not on the open sea, you are never far from land and, therefore, there is no doctor onboard the riverboat. In case of emergency, we can easily dock the boat and call for an ambulance or medical assistance.

PLEASE NOTE:  We regret that this Tauck itinerary cannot accommodate wheelchairs or motorized scooters.  Likewise, we regret that we're unable to provide individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other personal needs.  The responsibility of the Tauck Director who accompanies your trip is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest.  Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it.

Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate service animals on any river cruise for medical and legal reasons.

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUESTS

The restaurants, hotels, caterers and numerous other partners we work with all do their best to accommodate special dietary requests from Tauck guests. However, given the diverse nature of those food providers (from small wineries to grand hotels to world-famous restaurants in more than 70 countries worldwide), some of our partners are better able than others to accommodate such requests. We therefore cannot guarantee that all dietary requests can be accommodated at every meal. Also, please note that where dietary requests can be accommodated, choices will frequently be limited.

On board the riverboat, smoking is permitted in a limited area of the Sun deck. Smoking (including e-Cigarettes) is not permitted in any cabin, the restaurant, the lounge or any other interior space.

Reading List

We have compiled a reading list of recommended books to give you more information about the destinations you will be traveling to on your upcoming journey!

You can view the reading list  here.

To read about current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website, noaa.gov , by clicking here.

What To Pack

Your journey is designed with leisure in mind. Dress for comfort and convenience with a wardrobe that is flexible and allows for layering. Casual, cotton clothing is recommended. A light jacket or sweater for the sun deck is also recommended. Pack comfortable yet sturdy walking shoes that have already been broken-in, as many of the sites visited were built centuries ago and have uneven surfaces, some steep inclines and many steps.

During evenings aboard the riverboat, dress is resort casual.  Items such as slacks and collared shirts are appropriate for men.  For women, slacks, a dress or a skirt and blouse are suitable.  For dinner and throughout the evening, guests should refrain from wearing shorts, t-shirts, flip-flops or sneakers.  Your journey also includes one or two special occasion dinners, where a sport coat and tie for gentlemen and a dress/pantsuit for ladies are suggested.  (Your Tauck Director will advise you prior to those evenings.)

Bathrobes, slippers and hairdryers are provided in each cabin.

Valet laundry service is available on the riverboat for a fee. There is no valet dry cleaning available on the riverboat. Ironing facilities are available by request to the front desk. Category 7  suites feature their own irons and ironing boards.

We recommend that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medication in its original container to last through your entire journey, together with a copy of your doctor's prescription or a letter from your health-care provider on office stationery explaining that the medication has been prescribed for you, a list of the generic names of your medication, your travel documents and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag to avoid any inconvenience in the event that your flight or luggage is delayed. No medications are sold on board the riverboat.

Following is a list of recommended items to pack for your cruise: 

• Flat, rubber-soled walking shoes for onboard the ship
• Comfortable yet sturdy walking shoes that have already been broken-in
• Casual daytime wear – shorts, slacks, long and short-sleeved shirts
• An optional jacket and tie for men
• Casually elegant evening wear for ladies
• Sunglasses, sunscreen, hat
• A light sweater or jacket for higher elevations or a breezy night
• Camera, lenses, batteries, memory cards and chargers
• Travel alarm clock/cell phone with alarm function (many hotels do not have clocks in the rooms)
• Rain poncho and collapsible umbrella
• Reusable zipper-lock bags or other waterproof bags
• Daypack for camera equipment
• Sundries and toiletries that may be difficult to find en route
• Copies of your travel documents that should be secured in the safe in your ship cabin while traveling

Please refer to the Necessary Gear website at www.necessarygear.com as one option available to you for renting and purchasing apparel, PPEs, and other items appropriate for your journey.

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VIKING RIVER CRUISES 8 Days | Rhine Getaway Northbound

BASEL TO AMSTERDAM Day 1 | Basel, Switzerland. Welcome to Basel on the Rhine River in northwest Switzerland. Transfer from the airport to your ship. After boarding, enjoy time on your own getting acquainted with the city—or join our “welcome walk” to stretch your legs and start getting oriented. Cruise through the night to Breisach. (D) Day 2 | Breisach, Germany. Arrive during breakfast in Breisach, gateway to the Black Forest. Take a scenic excursion through the area’s renowned mountain landscape, rolling meadows and dense forests. Once there, visit a local workshop and see a cuckoo clock-making demonstration. Return to Breisach for some free time before evening departure. Or, choose an optional excursion to the quaint Alsatian town of Colmar. Dine aboard and cruise through the night to Kehl. (B, L, D) NOTE: Sailing departures November 25–December 23 will also visit Breisach’s Christmas market. Day 3 | Strasbourg, France.  Arrive in Kehl this morning and disembark for your guided tour of Strasbourg. See the European Parliament and tour the interior of the city’s famed cathedral. Free time allows you to further explore this Alsatian city’s blend of French and German cultures— fabulous churches, medieval covered bridges, beautiful parks and some lovely Art Nouveau and modernist architecture. As always, your Program Director can help you plan your free time. Return to your ship for dinner and departure. (B, L, D) NOTE:  Sailing departures November 25–December 23 will also visit Strasbourg’s Christmas market. Day 4 | Heidelberg, Germany. Rüdesheim. Wake up in Mannheim and disembark for a tour to Heidelberg to see Germany’s oldest university, founded in 1386. Then visit the beautiful sandstone ruins of imposing Heidelberg Castle, and take in the scenery of the Neckar River Valley and the city’s many red rooftops from its hilltop location. Continue with a walking tour through the Old Town to Heidelberg’s renowned gates. Return to your ship for afternoon cruising. Arrive in Rüdesheim in the early evening. Spend free time in the pedestrian-only Drosselgasse and sample a glass of locally produced wine at one of the restaurants or wine bars—dine aboard or stay in town if you prefer. Remain docked overnight. (B, L, D) Day 5 | Braubach. Koblenz.  This morning, sail along the most scenic stretch of the Rhine, where castles overlook the river from their hilltop locations. This part of the Middle Rhine Valley is so beautiful that it is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Midmorning, disembark for a tour of 700-year-old Marksburg Castle and its museum. Return to your ship for lunch and a short cruise to Koblenz, where you disembark and enjoy some time in this charming town at the confluence of the Moselle and Rhine Rivers. (B, L, D) NOTE:  Sailing departures November 25–December 23 will also visit the Koblenz Christmas market. Day 6 | Cologne.  Cruise along the Rhine this morning, arriving just after breakfast in Cologne. Disembark for your walking tour of this gem of the Rhine. Stroll through Old Town past St. Martin’s Church and spend some time inside Cologne’s Dom, a remarkable Gothic cathedral. The rest of your day is free to explore the dockside taverns, cafés and shops. Dine aboard before evening departure. Sailing departures November 25–December 23 will also visit Cologne’s Christmas market. (B, L, D) Day 7 | Kinderdijk, Holland.  Spend your morning enjoying some popular Dutch diversions: sample Dutch cheeses and jenever, a distilled juniper liquor, and try your hand at sjoelen (Dutch table shuffleboard). After lunch, your ship arrives in Kinderdijk, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, for an afternoon tour of this ingenious network of windmills and other flood management devices. You learn why the windmills were built and see how they work, plus you enter an actual working windmill for a tour of its mechanisms and living quarters. Board your ship for departure and dinner. Arrive at Amsterdam after midnight. (B, L, D) Day 8 | Amsterdam. After breakfast, disembark and proceed to the Amsterdam airport for your return flight. Or, add 2 nights in Amsterdam so you will have time to explore this picturesque and cosmopolitan capital. (B) NOTE: Itinerary is subject to change without notice. For the most up-to-date information, please refer to the itinerary schedule you receive with your final documents.

Detailed Itinerary: Amsterdam to Basel (ACB)

Skip to Basel to Amsterdam itinerary

Day 1 : AMSTERDAM (EMBARKATION DAY)

Passengers are welcome to board our ship at 6:00 p.m. After comfortably settling into your cabins, we'll introduce our crew at a welcome cocktail before dinner.

Our ship will cruise to Emmerich-am-Rhein. This morning, join us on an excursion common for both Classic and Discovery excursions packages: Guided tour of the open-air museum in Arnhem. We'll return on board in Wesel and spend the afternoon cruising to Düsseldorf. Enjoy an evening of entertainment.

We'll depart early this morning for Cologne. Join us on an excursion common for both Classic and Discovery excursions packages: Guided tour of Cologne. Our cruise will then continue along the Rhine to Koblenz. In the evening, enjoy some free time to stroll through the town towards the famous Deutsches Eck.

We'll cruise up the most beautiful part of the Rhine River all the way to Mainz, reaching it in the afternoon. Join us for the excursions proposed: CLASSIC : Guided tour of Mainz and the Gutenberg Museum (closed on Mondays.)

DISCOVERY : Touring the Rhineland vineyards.

Enjoy an evening of dancing after dinner. Our ship will cruise to Strasbourg through the night.

We'll arrive in Strasbourg in the afternoon. Join us for the excursions proposed: CLASSIC : Guided tour of the European capital.

DISCOVERY : Bird's eye view of Strasbourg from the top of the cathedral.

We'll return on board after our tour and cruise to Breisach. Tonight's our gala dinner and evening.

Enjoy time at leisure in Breisach, a city along the Rhine. The romanesque St Stephansmünster cathedral overlooks this lovely German town with a European feel.

This afternoon, join us for the excursions proposed: CLASSIC : Guided tour of Colmar and the Unterlinden Museum. (Note: The Unterlinden Museum is closed on Tuesdays. It will be replaced by a visit to the Hansi Museum instead.)

DISCOVERY : Bike tour of the Kaiserstuhl, a range of hills perfect for cycling amateurs. Our tour will take us through exceptional landscapes, orchards, small medieval villages and along the Rhine.

Afterwards, we'll cruise to Basel. Enjoy an evening of entertainment.

Join us on an excursion common for both Classic and Discovery excursions packages: Guided tour of Basel.

This afternoon, join us for the excursions proposed: CLASSIC : Discover the Rhine Falls, among the most spectacular sites to visit in Switzerland.

DISCOVERY : Hike around and mini-cruise to the foot of the Rhine Falls.

Enjoy an evening of entertainment.

Enjoy one last buffet breakfast on board before disembarking at 9:00 a.m. End of our services.

Departures & Pricing

Detailed Itinerary: Basel to Amsterdam (BCA)

Skip to Amsterdam to Basel itinerary

Join us on an excursion common for both excursions packages: Guided tour of Basel.

Enjoy an evening of dancing before our ship departs towards Breisach.

We'll arrive in Strasbourg early this afternoon. Join us for the excursions proposed: CLASSIC : Guided tour of the European capital.

Enjoy an evening of dancing as our ship starts sailing towards Mainz.

Join us for the excursions proposed: CLASSIC : Guided tour of Mainz and the Gutenberg Museum (Note: Gutenberg Musem is closed on Mondays.)

We'll return on board and cruise up the most beautiful part of the Rhine River towards Koblenz, passing numerous castles as well as the infamous Lorelei Rock along the way. This evening, join our hostess for a tour of the city.

We'll depart for Cologne, reaching it later this morning. Join us on an excursion common for both packages : Guided tour of Cologne on foot. Our tour will allow you to wonder at the majestic cathedral, the old town as well as the famous Fragrance Museum (exterior only.) Enjoy time at leisure in the city before we head back to the ship in Düsseldorf by coach. Tonight is our gala evening and dinner. 

Join us on an excursion common for both Classic and Discovery excursions packages: Guided tour of the open-air museum in Arnhem. Meanwhile, our ship cruises towards Nijmegen where we'll board it again after our tour. Enjoy an evening of entertainment.

This morning, join us for the excursions proposed: CLASSIC : Guided panoramic tour of Amsterdam and visit to a diamond merchant's.

DISCOVERY : Bike tour of Amsterdam in search of its most secret and unique locations.

In the afternoon, join us on an excursion common for both Classic and Discovery excurisons packages: Visit the Keukenhof Garden (Note: In 2019, the Keukenhof Gardens will be open from March 21st to May 19th). Outside the opening dates of the park, we will go to a guided tour of Haarlem.

DAY 9: AMSTERDAM (DISEMBARKATION DAY)

Enjoy one last buffet breakfast on board before disembarking at 9:00 a.m. End of our services.  

Advisements:

• A valid passport is required for travel. Passports must be valid at least 6 months after the last day of travel.
• Please check visa requirements with your local consulate(s); responsibility for obtaining visas rests with the traveler.
• For reasons of navigation and passenger safety, the cruise operator and the Captain of the ship reserve the right to modify the itinerary of the cruise.
• Until further notice, it is only possible to select one of the 2 excursions packages on offer. You will thus only be able to book the Classic Package OR the Dynamic Package . Please advise at the time of booking the excursion package you wish to choose.

Prices Include:

Your cruise with all meals from dinner the first evening to breakfast on the final day • Drinks including water, wine, beer, fruit juices and coffee served during meals on board • Drinks from the ship's bar (except for champagne and wines from the wine list) • Double-occupancy cabin with shower in bathroom • Onboard entertainment • Assistance from our onboard multi-lingual host/hostess • Welcome cocktail • Gala dinner • The excursions included in the package selected (Choose only ONE excursions package: Classic -or- Discovery) • Port fees

Prices Do Not Include:

Individual arrival and departure (airfare; transfers) • T ravel Cancellation Insurance • Wines from the wine list • Champagne from the onboard bar • The drinks served during excursions or transfers • Gratuities • P ersonal expenses

• River Cruising

Amsterdam-Basel or Basel-Amsterdam?

By hiccups , January 30, 2015 in River Cruising

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We are considering our first river cruise, and based on some posts here, thought the Amsterdam-Basel route might be a good place to start. I read one post that preferred the Basel-Amsterdam route to Amsterdam-Basel, and I wondered if others might have some input. Thank you!

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My wife and I took Amsterdam to Basel this past July. We are glad we chose that direction. We felt that each stop along the way was better then the last going that direction. I believe that those who prefer coming from Basel feel that because the river is faster from that direction then they spend a little more time in some ports. But I vote for Amsterdam to Basel.

Not sure if you were doing a pre-cruise or post-cruise but I'd base my decision somewhat on that. If you are not doing a pre or post cruise it depends on whether you want to see Basel or Amsterdam. Most international flights fly overnight getting you into your destination early. This past December we arrived in Amsterdam at 7AM. By the time we got to the ship and dropped luggage it was probably 9AM. That gave us pretty much the entire day to explore Amsterdam. When we arrived in Basel we left the boat early. Around 9AM. Some people actually left as early as about 4AM or 5AM. The only thing we saw of Basel was from the window of the bus on the way to the airport which at most was 30 minutes.

As far as more or less time in ports I can't really judge that. From Amsterdam to Basel you are going against the flow of the river. The only thing I can see that doing is using more fuel to fight the current. We had plenty of time in each port to do and see what we wanted to. The only drawback we experienced is where the mooring pontoons are sometimes. I guess they are on a first come, first serve basis and we were moored too far from some town centers. I doubt that has anything to do with which direction the boat is traveling in though.

Bet & Peg

I think on this board you'll find some strong thoughts about your question! We did a Viking cruise on the Rhine River - Rhine Getaway - in early December, 2012. We went from Basel to Amsterdam and just loved it! And, while we both completely enjoyed the CMS, I'd recommend this cruise any time of year!

We had a reason for going BtoA. Because of the timing - cruise left Dec 7th - we weren't going to spend extended time pre/post in Europe but did want a day to over-come travel-lag. We'd been to Amsterdam 3x and love it but decided we wanted to see Basel CMS so we spent 2 nights there pre-trip and then flew home the day the cruise ended. In the end, I was very happy we decided on BtoA. While we loved the Basel CMS, once on the River, I felt the markets got better as we went north - Cologne (Koln) was just fabulous! I think it would have been a let-down if we had been there first.

My advice would be to really read very carefully the itinerary of the cruise in each direction. The "highlight" of the Rhine River cruise is sailing through the area with the castles so either direction is calculated to afford passengers the best daytime viewing. We sailed this area in the morning, I think AtoB might be after lunch. Because of this each direction has a slightly altered itinerary.

So ask advice here on the boards about the cruise and maybe even specific cities - but in the end only YOU can choose what you really want to see/do and therefore which direction would be better for you!!

Have a GREAT cruise!!!

YoungDubFan

I did Basel to Amsterdam. I had read that if you have bad weather, you will be going opposite the weather, so you may only have 1 day of bad weather. If you are going AtoB, you could have bad weather for several days. We went in 1 day early and flew into Zurich. We had 1 1/2 days to explore Zurich before boarding the ship. The last day of the cruise is actually spent in AMS so we had an entire day of touring / exploring. I thought this was the best of both worlds. Going BtoA - you have a full day in Rudesheim, going AtoB, you only have 1/2 day. As others have mentioned, look at port times in each city for each direction. It may help make your decision.

Where can I find information on port departures? On the various cruise line websites I only see day itineraries.

Host Jazzbeau

You won't find departure times listed by the hour, but e.g. on AMA's website there is a tab "Detailed Itinerary" that lists departures as "afternoon," "late tonight," etc. BTW on our AMA Amsterdam to Basel cruise we did the Rhine Gorge in the morning, same as FotoPeg's experience going the other way.

We did Rhine Gorge in the afternoon Basel to Amsterdam. It was clear and sunny in December and perfect!

Our first River Cruise was with Avalon, Basel to Amsterdam, this was picked for many reasons including hours of research on CC, this included items already mentions on this thread

Timing of port visits

Time in ports

Towns visited

Weather patterns

Pre cruise time at Lake Lucerne

Avalon free transfer to Basel from Movenpick at Zurich

Easy of transfer to Airport at end of Cruise as we were not doing any post cruise touring.

If you would like daily newsletters with gives all port times etc for Avalon (these vary greatly with other cruise lines and can't be used as a guide) please email me at

[email protected]

We thoroughly enjoyed Avalon and every aspect of this cruise, have cruised again with Avalon as they provide a faultless relaxing 8 days

My wife and I will be doing this itinerary on the AmaCerto this coming September. After deciding on the Rhine and AMA, we decided to travel Basel-to-Amsterdam. We will be spending three nights pre-cruise in Lucerne/Basel on our own, then one night post in Amsterdam. We thought Amsterdam might be a good place to wind down a bit before heading home.

After looking at AMA's detailed itineraries posted on their web site, it looks like they spend more overnights in port going this direction as compared to starting in Amsterdam. We are thinking this may give us a few more opportunities for port town dinners, evening trips into town, etc. Not sure if this is true of all cruise lines since not all provide as much info on sailing times.

I'm sure either direction is great - just our thoughts.......

My wife and I will be doing this itinerary on the AmaCerto this coming September. After deciding on the Rhine and AMA, we decided to travel Basel-to-Amsterdam. We will be spending three nights pre-cruise in Lucerne/Basel on our own, then one night post in Amsterdam. We thought Amsterdam might be a good place to wind down a bit before heading home.   After looking at AMA's detailed itineraries posted on their web site, it looks like they spend more overnights in port going this direction as compared to starting in Amsterdam. We are thinking this may give us a few more opportunities for port town dinners, evening trips into town, etc. Not sure if this is true of all cruise lines since not all provide as much info on sailing times.     I'm sure either direction is great - just our thoughts.......

We noted this as well and prefer overnights in port so we can get out and about.

You will love AmaCerto! It was the best of 9 river cruises we have taken so far. She is a beauty.

coolerchick

My wife and I will be doing this itinerary on the AmaCerto this coming September. After deciding on the Rhine and AMA, we decided to travel Basel-to-Amsterdam. We will be spending three nights pre-cruise in Lucerne/Basel on our own, then one night post in Amsterdam. We thought Amsterdam might be a good place to wind down a bit before heading home.   After looking at AMA's detailed itineraries posted on their web site, it looks like they spend more overnights in port going this direction as compared to starting in Amsterdam. We are thinking this may give us a few more opportunities for port town dinners, evening trips into town, etc. Not sure if this is true of all cruise lines since not all provide as much info on sailing times.   I'm sure either direction is great - just our thoughts.......

We did the exact same cruise, cept boat was Amacello.

Stayed 3 days in Lucerne then 3 in Amsterdam.

I believe you will enjoy either way.

The boat docked in Amsterdam at noon and moored overnight and then we disembarked the boat the next morning - thus the 3rd night.

I am not a fan of Amsterdam but I have found that the majority of people loved it (Americans and Canadians loved it - my European paisans hated it)

So I think your itinerary is ideal. Don't forgot to pre book tickets for Ann Frank house if you are going.

Caviargal & Coolerchick -- thanks for you comments and tips. This will be our first river cruise and we're really looking forward to it, but its a long eight months to wait.....

A quick question about the first port, Breisach. The tours are to either Riquewihr or Breisach/Freiburg. Both sound like interesting little towns, but neither stands out as the obvious choice. Which did you do?

Any other "must sees" or "don't bother'? I know everyone enjoys different things, but I'm always interested the others' experiences.

Did you do any of the optional or extra cost excursions? We're still waiting or our passport renewals so we haven't been able to complete our registration and see what's available.

Caviargal & Coolerchick -- thanks for you comments and tips. This will be our first river cruise and we're really looking forward to it, but its a long eight months to wait.....   A quick question about the first port, Breisach. The tours are to either Riquewihr or Breisach/Freiburg. Both sound like interesting little towns, but neither stands out as the obvious choice. Which did you do?   Any other "must sees" or "don't bother'? I know everyone enjoys different things, but I'm always interested the others' experiences.   Did you do any of the optional or extra cost excursions? We're still waiting or our passport renewals so we haven't been able to complete our registration and see what's available.

Caviargal will have more input since she has more experience - her posts are the main reason I choose AMA.

For me - I LOVED Switzerland. We stayed in Lucerne too. One day to walk around would be ideal. Lion Monument is a must. Mt Rigi for us was wonderful - we booked at the train station - boat, then cog wheel train, then gondola. They are very informative at the train station - look for information office, right next to the Burger King. The pastries - Oh, my! And of course my beloved chocolate heaven - Laderach stores.

Amsterdam - Ann Frank Museum. Book tickets ahead of time and you walk right in. That's about it with Amsterdam for me. There was a place called "9 streets" I think. Full of one of a kind shops and good places to eat (yes, I'm all about the eating).

The CD should be able to help you with the other stops and must sees.

Have a wonderful time!

We chose the Riquewihr option (it was combined with Colmar at the time) and loved the cute little town. There is one main street and it is lined with wine shops that offer free tastings. You could easily get plowed! [Good thing it's a small town!] The boat was docked in Breisach so we had a chance to walk around on our own after the excursion got back -- that was plenty of time. There are lots of German stops on this cruise but not too many French ones, so we thought this was a good day to go French and we were very happy with the choice.

Lucerne is a beautiful town and just the right size for touring. You can walk the entire old town in an hour (I know: thanks to stupidly letting my camera battery go dead, I had to do it three times!). The Lion monument is a don't-miss. Also go up on one of the mountains (Rigi or Pilatus ) -- the railroad sells combination excursions for either.

Zurich is a big city and we liked it less. But there is a church in the old town with beautiful Chagall stained glass windows. Our tour didn't include it so we slipped out early and did it on our own. Outside Zurich, the Rhine Falls is a worthwhile excursion.

Amsterdam has a lot of worthwhile tourist sites, especially if you like art. The Rijksmuseum has recently been renovated and has a great collection of Dutch old masters [but no smoking -- sorry for the pun!]. The Van Gogh museum is fantastic -- a great collection of his paintings plus an entire floor devoted to restoration techniques. The Hermitage museum (of St. Petersburg Russia) has a branch in Amsterdam with changing exhibits from the museum's holdings [we didn't get to that, but it's at the top of my list for the next visit]. Check which tours will be included in your cruise, and make sure you do a Canal Boat cruise.

We had a special excursion to Colmar when we did this cruise over New Years as there was still a Christmas market still open there. It was one of the prettiest towns we have ever been to,, especially all decorated for the holidays. Like a post card.

We did not do any optionals.

Wish we would have had more time in Heidelberg and not done the castle as our guide was boring and it dragged on and on.

I agree about advance tickets to the Anne Frank house. We did this several years while staying in Amsterdam and found it moving.

We did the Limited Edition Joordan walking tour in Amsterdam as it not our first time there and enjoyed the small group, the guide, the pace and the neighborhood very much.

In Rudeshiem we went for a coffee instead of the museum and then walked around for a couple of hours.

My husband enjoyed the walking tour and potato pancake beer stop at the conclusion of the tour in Cologne.

In Strasbourg, we took the bus tour (had to in order to get to the center) and then walked around on our own. We had a delightful and eclectic lunch at a place in the center famous for carpaccio. Nothing fancy and the only bad wine we had in France, ever, but food was good.

Make your reservation for the Chef's Table early as it does fill up.

We have visited all three of these towns - albeit briefly - within the past year. Riquewihr was on a Rhine cruise tour. Breisach was on our own, from the boat. We visited Freiburg on our own while doing a self-driving tour in Germany.

I would rank them Freiburg > Riquewihr > Breisach, if you forced me to choose. But none of them are uninteresting, and all are certainly worth visiting.

After dinner I will try to post a few pictures of each to help you decide. :)

OK, here goes:

We visited Riquewihr as part of the Alsatian Villages tour (which also visited Kayserberg). I thought Kayserberg was prettier but Riquewihr is nice too. As our host points out, there is one main drag with lots of wine tasting places... We brought a nice bottle of Reisling home with us. Here's the Main street, and the Post Office (as an example of the beautiful architecture everywhere you look):

We wandered Breisach on our own. Big cathedral (which we didn't go in), with an interesting statue of Europa in its courtyard. The streets have a few interesting sights but it's not as cute as some of the other towns we saw on this trip. The view from the church is nice, and there's a promenade along the Rhine with a "Rhine Palace" that's pretty. But we found less to do in this town.

Freiburg was enjoyable. We climbed the tower of the Munster, had a nice lunch in the Munsterplatz, and wandered the streets looking at the various towers, interesting houses, etc. The view form the church tower is beautiful as the Black Forest comes right up to the edge of town. There was a lively market in the Munsterplatz, and the second picture is one of the old city gates:

Thanks again for everyone's comments and ideas. They will all be a great help as we finalize our plans. We've made all of our pre and post hotel reservations, so now its on to the fun stuff.

JP and Host Jazzbeau - I followed both of your Rhine trip reports when we were still just considering the cruise. Now I'll have to go back and reread them (and a number of others) since I have a much better idea of what we'll be seeing and doing.

Tinkindling

My wife and I did the Uniworld Castles of the Rhine tour, and I'd just like, first of all, to express appreciation to JP and Chris for their wonderful and informative posts on that trip.

We chose to go to Kayserberg and Riquwhir, (hope I got those spellings correct), and enjoyed them immensely. So much so, that I returned about 4 months later with my daughter, who's in the wine trade, and we stayed in Colmar for five nights, which gave us time for lots of wonderful little villages and towns, and much very enjoyable wine tasting.

I really don't think you can go wrong with this trip, no matter which direction you choose.

My wife and I did the Uniworld Castles of the Rhine tour, and I'd just like, first of all, to express appreciation to JP and Chris for their wonderful and informative posts on that trip.   We chose to go to Kayserberg and Riquwhir, (hope I got those spellings correct), and enjoyed them immensely. So much so, that I returned about 4 months later with my daughter, who's in the wine trade, and we stayed in Colmar for five nights, which gave us time for lots of wonderful little villages and towns, and much very enjoyable wine tasting.   I really don't think you can go wrong with this trip, no matter which direction you choose.

Thanks, Tinkindling. There are so many good reviews out there; glad you appreciated ours too.

Your follow-up trip sounds like it was marvelous! We will (hopefully) be back in Germany later this year, and maybe a side trip to Alsace will be in the cards. :) So many beautiful places, so little time.

I very much agree with your last sentence. AMS-BSL or BSL-AMS... Either is way better than staying home!

I am about to pull the trigger for our Avalon Amsterdam to Basel. I have some questions about Zurich. We were thinking of staying 3 nights there. Is that too much time? We wont have any time to see Basel.But could we go to Lucerne on our own for a day? Is the train easy to negotiate or would you find a tour company? The cruise offers the Movenpick Hotel but that is closer to the airport than the city center. Other recommendations? Thanks everyone!

If it was me, I would spend 1 day in Zurich and 2 days in Lucerne.

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8 best river cruises in Europe, from the Douro to the Danube

E urope is a continent built on its rivers, with many having played a vital role in the formation and development of its most important cities. From the Thames to the Tiber, they are a ever-flowing reminder of the continent’s long and varied history.

The opportunity to sail along these rivers, among the world’s most beautiful and peaceful waterways, is a temptation that’s easily given in to. Of course, a river cruise is about more than just spending time floating on the water (although that option is available, should you wish). It’s about the towns, cities and landmarks along the way.

These trips will take you on a relaxing and slow-paced journey to vineyards and valleys, tours and excursions, returning each night to your own floating hotel. Each day offers quick stops to discover some of the continent’s most important culture at your own pace.

The Independent has rounded up eight of the best Europe river cruise packages, from epic continental crossing and to the finest Christmas markets to explore.

Capitals of Eastern Europe, Viking River Cruises

Viking River Cruises’ Capitals of Eastern Europe itinerary is a 16-night trip covering the main cities on the Danube. It sets sail from Vienna, the elegant and sophisticated Austrian capital, and it finishes in Constanta, Romania, before a quick final journey over land to Bucharest to end your trip with a two-night stay.

Read more on Europe travel :

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On the way you’ll visit a host of towns in Hungary, Serbia and even Bulgaria, but on this trip the bigger cities are the main attraction. Vienna is followed by Bratislava – where Baroque palaces meet a typically Eastern European Old Town – and then Budapest . The Hungarian capital is a highlight: from festooned “ruin bars” and thermal baths to a spectacular neo-Gothic parliament building, the city has a wide variety of architecture, activities and things to do.

How to book

The tour lasts for 17 days, starting from £3,795pp. This price includes return flights, one excursion in each port of call and all meals. vikingrivercruises.co.uk

North Rhine & The Netherlands, TUI

Alongside the Danube, the Rhine is one of Europe’s main cruise rivers. Many operators have several Rhine packages; TUI’s offering covers a stellar range of cities for a very affordable price. It’s ships have two dining options (a bistro and a more formal restaurant) with al fresco seating, as well as a wellness and activity area on the top deck. No excursions are included, but this does give you free rein to choose whatever activities you like.

The first two days are spent in Amsterdam , where you’ll have ample time to wander its canals and green spaces, such as the Vondelpark, or visit attractions such as the Anne Frank museum, Van Gogh museum and Rijksmuseum.

Days three and four bring you to Rotterdam and Dusseldorf. You can enjoy the port area in Netherlands ’ second city or simply marvel at its dramatically different modern architecure, while Dusseldorf provides a variety of museums and concerts alongside a lively Old Town. On days five to seven, you’ll visit four picturesque riverside cities and towns: Bonn, Koblenz, Boppard and Oberwesel. There are waterfront bars and restaurants galore, and each has its own slice of history (think of a Beethoven museum in Bonn and a memorial to the ruler who united Germany in Koblenz).

From £1,219pp for this seven-night trip, including three meals per day (you can add coffees, alcohol and other drinks on an all-inclusive basis for an extra £20 per night) and return flights. tui.co.uk

The Douro, Riviera Travel

A trip along the northern Douro river can offer views to rival even the most idyllic of Algarve beaches. This trip starts in Porto , where bars and restaurants line the banks in the Ribeira (Riverside) district, but it is worth climbing the various hills to see other areas and sites, such as the cathedral and Dom Luis I Bridge.

After setting off along the Douro, your first two stops are Pinhao – a picturesque wine town, famous for being at the heart of the Port-producing region of the country – and Castelo Rodrigo, a 12th-century walled village located in the highlands. Day four will see you visit Salamanca, the Spanish sandstone city famous for its cathedrals and university.

The next two days are spent in Peso da Régua and Lamego – two small hillside towns – before returning to Porto on day seven. The cruises ends here but the holiday isn’t; this package also contains a three-night stay in Lisbon . After travelling to the capital by coach, you’ll visit the nearby towns of Coimbra (day eight) and Sintra (day 10), while you’ll have a day in the capital sandwiched in between; while in Lisbon, take in the city’s unique Manueline and Pombaline architecture while wandering through its grand squares, and visit Sao Jorge castle or the city’s famous Time Out Market.

This 11-day cruise is priced from £2,128pp, including all meals on board, excursions, airport transfers and coach travel where necessary.  rivieratravel.co.uk

The Rhone, Scenic Cruises

Scenic Cruises’ luxury Rhone sailing takes you through some of the best sections of southern France , starting in Lyon . The regional capital has 2,000 years of history, so it’s blessed with a Roman amphitheatre right through to a Renaissance Old Town. Your first trip will take you north along the Saone river to Macon, a famous wine region in Burgundy.

The next two towns, Vienne and Viviers, offer spectacular views of the Rhone before you arrive in Avignon for two nights. You can enjoy a private concert at the Palais des Papes – once a Papal residence – as well as a cooking class onboard, but a visit to the city itself is worth it to wander its narrow streets and charming squares, starting with the Place de l’Horloge. Your final day takes you to Arles, at the mouth of the Rhone – from here, you can travel home, stay in the city or carry on towards Marseille .

Prices start at £1,863pp for the eight-day cruise. The package includes 20 meals, the premium concert experience, cooking lessons and 19 shore activities, ranging from walking tours to wine tastings. scenic.co.uk

Holland & Belgium, Avalon Waterways

Avalon’s eight-day cruise of the Low Countries is an excellent way to experience some of the region’s best cities in a relaxing way. It starts and ends in Amsterdam , where you’ll have a number of nights to wander its scenic network of canals lined with beautiful 17th-century buildings.

When you move onto Belgium, you’ll visit Ghent , Brussels and Antwerp on consecutive days. More tranquil canals await you in Ghent, and those who enjoy being by the water can continue this in Antwerp’s waterfront area. Brussels has more than its fair share of landmarks and museums (all centred around Grand Place, main square and Unesco Heritage Site), but the Royal Museum of Fine Arts (Antwerp) and St Bavo’s Cathedral (Ghent) are definitely places to visit during the other stops. Day six will take you to Rotterdam before you head back to the Dutch capital.

From £1,635pp. Meals and some activities are included; there are additional excursions in each destination that can be purchased. avalonwaterways.co.uk

Danube Delights, Emerald Cruises

This trip from Emerald Cruises takes you along the famous river to Regensburg. It starts with two nights in Budapest , with a traditional Hungarian folklore show and tour of Buda Hill on offer, along with any solo sightseeing you’d like to do. Days three and four take you to Bratislava and Vienna, where you can enjoy cycling tours and hikes.

Krems and Durnstein are the last two stops in Austria before you head to Passau, the German “City of Three Rivers”. At the confluence of the Danube, Inn and Ilz rivers, the city is home to an impressive cathedral and Old Town. After disembarking at Regensburg, you make your way to Munich , where a good plan is to spend time exploring the Bavarian capital before you fly home.

From £1,995pp for this eight-day cruise, which includes five guided tours, 20 meals and complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks served with lunch and dinner on board. emeraldcruises.co.uk

Christmas Markets on the Rhine, Ama Waterways

There’s something quite special about experienceing Christmas celebrations on a river cruise through Europe. On this AmaWaterways voyage, you sail the Rhine, boarding in Amsterdam and with a first stop in Cologne. The Gothic cathedral provides the backdrop for one of the country’s best Christmas markets, where you’ll find dozens of stalls selling festive items, many of it handmade. Other markets include the more elaborate Heinzels Wintermärchen in the Old Town and the Markt der Engel (a more rustic affair in the city’s Neumarkt square). For those who want to mix in a bit of sightseeing, the Museum Ludwig and Roman-Germanic Museum can give you a taste of arts and history.

Next on the itinerary you’ll visit the German towns of Heidelberg and Speyer, where more markets await, before arriving in Strasbourg, France. Here you’ll find an eclectic mix of French and German culture, a warm festive spirit and plenty of opportunities to wander the markets that are spread throughout the town. Wander further afield and you’ll find Petite France, a pretty district known for cobblestone streets and canals. Holidaymarkers return to Germany for the penultimate stop in Breisach, before disembarking in Basel (though you can always stay in Switzerland for a taste of Swiss Christmas markets).

From £2,254, including meals and some activitie; flights and airport transfer not included. amawaterways.co.uk

European Sojourn, Viking River Cruises

This ultimate itinerary bisects Europe to take passengers from Amsterdam to Bucharest, via sections of the Rhine, Main and Danube among other European rivers. Along the way, passngers will visit some of Europe’s principal cities – think Budapest, Amsterdam and Vienna – smaller (but just as beautiful) riverside settlements such as Passau and Bamberg, and lesser-known towns including Vidin and Kolocsa.

Hidden gems range from Melk, an Austrian town in the underrated Wachau Valley wine-making region, Osijek, the fourth-largest city in Croatia, and Kinderdijk, a Dutch village famous for its set of 19 windmills. With 23 days, eight countries, 20 towns and cities, and at least 10 Unesco World Heritage Sites, there’ll be plenty to see as you traverse the length of central Europe.

From £5,395pp, including flights, 19 guided tours, all meals, transfers and amenities. vikingrivercruises.co.uk

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7 of the best river cruises around the world for 2024

Take a tour of the world’s most famous waterways on your next holiday, article bookmarked.

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A cruise holiday isn’t always about setting sail across vast oceans. For an alternative type of break on the water, winding your way inland might sound similar but it’s a vastly different experience.

From crossing deep into the untouched areas of the Amazon rainforest to exploring some of Europe ’s finest cities, the river cruise experience is one that allows tourists to get to grips with the history, culture and tradition of a destination in a slow, immersive fashion.

This could be in the form of sampling Creole cuisine in Mississippi or discovering historic sites in Vietnam , but whatever it is, there’s plenty of choice across Europe , Asia , South America and North America .

Read on for a selection of the best cruises, from the Mississippi to the Mekong.

Europe’s second longest river – and arguably its most famous – river takes you through amazing capital cities and host of charming towns, as well as plenty of scenic countryside in Austria , Hungary , Slovakia and Romania. Cruises along the Danube can vary from a handful of days to almost three weeks, giving you time to explore the elegance of cities like Vienna , Budapest, Bratislava or Belgrade.

Emerald Cruises lets you see the best of the Danube with the addition of a hefty dose of traditional German culture in Munich. Leaving the Bavarian capital, you’ll travel to Passau before a quick cross-border trip to the Unesco-listed Czech city of Cesky Krumlov. Vienna is the next city, replete with opulent architecture, before a quick overnight stay in Bratislava on the sixth night. Guided tours and hikes around the castle are included, before you get three nights to explore Budapest, the Hungarian capital that is blessed with picturesque buildings, relaxed thermal baths and a buzzing nightlife scene. 

From £1,999pp, including nine nights’ accommodation, full board, tours of Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest and airport transfers. Departing 7 May 2024 to 20 October 2024.

Read more on Europe travel :

• The lesser-known Croatia destinations you may not have considered
• The best spas in Eastern Europe for an affordable, yet luxurious, break
• Lisbon travel guide: Where to eat, drink, shop and stay in Portugal’s vivacious capital

This famous river runs for over 4,000 miles throughout South America and is a major part of the eponymous rainforest, one of the most biodiverse and important natural areas on the planet. A river cruise remains the best way to reach deeper into the jungle, with many cruises beginning in the northern Brazilian city of Manaus or in the Peruvian city of Lima.

Start in Peru’s enchanting capital with the Peruvian Rivers and Rainforest Discovery cruise from Uniworld. You’ll fly to Iquitos, the largest city in the Amazon as your next stop, before delving into some of the most remote areas in the world as you take to the waters. From here, nature takes centre stage, with a variety of experiences – including jungle walks and kayaking on a lake – added to the enjoyment of natural features such as giant lilies, towering barrigona trees and around 10 per cent of the world’s known animal species.

From £8,799pp, including 10 nights’ accommodation, full board, return flights from London, domestic flights and various excursions. Departing regularly from 17 January until 6 November 2024.

Start in  Cairo  and make your way down to Aswan over a few days (though many shorter routes operate between  Aswan and Luxor  only). For a relaxing way to take in riverside scenery and some of Egypt’s most important historical sites, a river cruise is the ideal choice.

AP Touring’s  Egypt Discovery  trip takes you on a round trip from Cairo. You’ll cross thousands of years of history, starting with West Bank the Valley of the Kings, before a short flight to Aswan to explore Abu Simbel and a sighting of the landmark Pyramids of Giza near the Egyptian capital. The scenery along the route is exceptional, too, with palm trees, green spaces and mini oases dotted in between the yellow-hued rock.

From £6,995pp, including 12 nights’ accommodation, 30 meals (including unlimited local beer and wine) return flights from London Heathrow, domestic flights within Egypt and activities in each of the 10 destinations. Departing regularly from September 2024 to April 2025.

Exploring this land of castles and fairytales is a worthwhile European trip, with tours often starting in the pretty Dutch capital of Amsterdam and weaving across the German and French countryside, with the route broken up by cities such as Cologne, Dusseldorf and Strasbourg. Many of the towns located on the banks of the Rhine, such as Koblenz, are incredibly picturesque, with a range of medieval castles and natural sites like the Black Forest also featuring.

Ama Waterways provide a seven-night cruise that runs from Basel to Amsterdam. Get your cultural fix at either end of your trip in either of these two cities, before admiring the vistas around the Rhine Valley, the medieval castles that loom over towns like Heidelberg and the timber-framed buildings that line the streets of Riquewihr and Strasbourg. Stops in both Freiburg and Dusseldorf are also included, as well as an optional excursion to Cologne.

From £2,399pp, including seven nights’ accommodation, full board and tours in each destination. Departing regularly between 18 February and 28 December 2024.

The views around the Douro Valley are some of the best in Portugal , whether you’re sitting by the banks in Porto or admiring the verdant hills and vineyards around Pinhao. This region, well-known for its port production, has cruises lasting roughly one week that usually begin and end in Porto – where the river meets the Atlantic Ocean – with a brief crossing over into Spain and Salamanca.

The Riviera Travel package offers an affordable eight-day Douro option starting and ending in Porto , with two nights to explore Portugal’s magnificent second city (and to go on a guided tour of a well-known port producer). Days three and four take you to sleepy Castelo de Rodrigo and the historic Spanish city of Salamanca (with guided tours and time to explore at your leisure) before traversing the cascading vineyards of the valley on your way back to Porto via the beautiful Peso de Regua (and a local wine tasting).

From £1,599pp, including seven nights’ accommodation, full board, flights from a London airport, one excursion one each day and airport transfers. Departing regularly from 7 April 2024.

The Mississippi

Discovering the Deep South is often done by car, but with new routes recently from Viking Cruises, exploring Louisiana, Mississippi, Minnesota and Tennessee has never been more idyllic. The famed cities of New Orleans and Memphis can bookend your tour, with lesser-known locations such as Baton Rouge, Natchez and Darrow making up the other stops.

Opt for Viking’s ‘Heart of the Delta’ cruise to if you really want to immerse yourself in the Deep South. The cruise begins with a few days exploring the French influences and Creole cuisine of New Orleans , before moving on to Baton Rouge – a haven of Creole and Cajun culture – and then onto Natchez, the oldest city on the river. You’ll travel through other towns on the Mississippi – complete with walking tours or excursions to the Atchafalaya Swamp basin – before reaching Memphis, the atmospheric home of blues music.

From £6,545pp, including 12 nights’ accommodation, full board, return flights from London and one excursion per destination. Departing weekly from March 7 until 13 June, with additional departures on 7 November and 13 November.

The Mekong flows through a host of Asia’s most fascinating countries, including Vietnam , Thailand , China and Cambodia. Most cruises only take in parts of Vietnam and Cambodia , though this mix of floating fishing villages, traditional markets and the two capitals of Ho Chi Minh City and Phnom Penh will be enough for most travellers. With Avalon Waterways , you’ll combine energetic, modern cities with some of the most vibrant culture in Asia and a history that is equal parts sobering and fascinating.

It starts in Siem Reap, site of the Angkor Wat temple, before moving on to the Cambodian capital, where you can learn about the dictatorship of Pol Pot and visit several must-see landmarks. After this, Vietnam beckons, with a visit to the dizzying Ho Chi Minh City to see its admirable architecture. Visits to markets, old Vietnam War tunnels, temples and cooking classes are dotted in between these city trips for good measure, with stops at characterful towns like Vinh Long, too.

From £4,229pp, including seven nights’ accommodation, full board and activities on each day of the trip. Departing regularly from 15 January to 11 March and from 12 August to 2 December 2024.

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• AmaWaterways introduces "Flavors of Burgundy" itinerary...

AmaWaterways introduces "Flavors of Burgundy" itinerary featuring renowned vineyards

AmaWaterways has launched its latest French itinerary, "Flavors of Burgundy," featuring a voyage along the Saone River through renowned vineyard regions. In conjunction with this new offering, AmaWaterways announced a lineup of wine experts for its 2025 "Celebration of Wine River Cruises."

These wine-themed cruises, spanning 21 itineraries, cover regions such as Burgundy, Portugal's Douro Valley, Austria's Wachau Valley , and Germany's Moselle. Each cruise is hosted by a wine expert from North America or Europe, including vineyard owners, winemakers, certified sommeliers, and wine educators. These experts enhance the onboard experience with wine tastings and epicurean events, and North American hosts also introduce their own wines for a diverse tasting experience.

A notable example is the "Flavors of Burgundy" 7-night cruise, which includes tastings in scenic locations such as Tournus , Macon , and Lyon . Travelers can further enrich their journey with optional pre- and post-cruise land packages: 3 nights in Paris and 3 nights in Geneva.

Eight sailings of the "Flavors of Burgundy" itinerary are scheduled for March, April, July, October, and November. The March 27 cruise will feature Holly Howell, a certified specialist of wine and sommelier.

Another itinerary, "Enchanting Rhine," between Basel and Amsterdam , offers optional pre-cruise stays of 2 nights in Zurich and 2 nights in Lake Lucerne, Switzerland. This itinerary has 8 departures, including the March 20 sailing hosted by Kathy Joseph, owner and winemaker at Fiddlehead Cellars in California.

The "Romantic Danube" itinerary, with 3 wine-focused departures in March and July, offers extensions with a 2-night pre-cruise package in Munich or a  3-night pre-cruise package in Prague . The July 14 departure will be hosted by Jim Cargill, winemaker at House Family Vineyards in California.

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