2025 rhine castles and
swiss alps

Arrive in Amsterdam and check into your hotel. 2 nights hotel in Amsterdam at the Barbizon Palace or Grand Hotel Krasnapolsky Hotels (or similar), including walking tour, Zaanse Schans visit and daily breakfast. Transfers between hotel and ship are included with the purchase of cruise and land program; airport transfers are included with the purchase of airfare from AmaWaterways.

Check out of your hotel and, before transferring to your ship, visit Zaanse Schans, observing life as it used to be lived in the Netherlands. Authentic windmills, houses and shops were relocated to this picturesque area, creating a typical 17th- to 18th-century village. (B,D)

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)

Explore Cologne with a guided tour of its Old Town, featuring landmarks like the Cologne Rathaus, Fishmarkt, and Great St. Martin Church. Conclude the tour with a visit to a local tavern for Kölsch beer tasting. Alternatively, discover the historic Cologne Cathedral, a 13th-century Gothic marvel and UNESCO World Heritage Site. Active guests can opt for a guided bike ride along the Rhine and through the historic Stadtgarten. (B,L,D)

Cruise through the UNESCO-designated Rhine Gorge, then explore the winemaking town of Rüdesheim. Take in panoramic views from the Niederwalddenkmal with a gondola ride, followed by a wine tasting in the iconic vineyards. Opt for an active adventure with a hike or guided bike tour along the Rhine. Explore Siegfried’s Mechanical Instrument Cabinet or savor Rüdesheimer coffee, a delightful blend of brandy, coffee, and whipped cream. (B,L,D)

Explore Heidelberg's well-preserved medieval charm, featuring the iconic Heidelberg Castle and the massive 18th-century Great Vat. Opt for an active adventure with a guided hike on the Philosopher’s Path for panoramic views. Alternatively, discover Speyer, home to Europe’s largest Romanesque cathedral and the medieval Old Gate. Enjoy a bike ride along the Neckar River to Ladenburg's medieval city center for some leisurely exploration. (B,L,D)

Strasbourg, located on the French-German border, blends the best of both countries. Explore landmarks like Parc de l’Orangerie, the European Parliament, and Place de la République on a panoramic tour. Discover the enchanting "La Petite France" district and stroll through charming streets to admire Cathédrale de Nôtre Dame and its famed astronomical clock. For an active option, enjoy a guided bike ride through the city and Parc de l’Orangerie. (B,L,D)

Discover Basel, Switzerland's third-largest city, known for its historical significance in academia and finance. Explore its medieval landmarks, including the town hall and market square. Choose between a guided bike tour spanning three countries or a full-day excursion to Lucerne. Experience the poignant Lion Monument and admire Lucerne's medieval walls and towers in the afternoon. (B,L,D)

Disembark the ship and transfer to Lake Como, Italy, stopping in Bellinzona, Switzerland along the way, where you will enjoy a brief tour and free time for lunch. Once in breathtaking Lake Como, nestled at the foot of the Alps, check into your hotel for the evening. (B)

3 nights hotel in Como at the Hilton Lake Como (or similar), including city tour, cruise to Bellagio and daily breakfast. Transfers between hotel and ship are included with the purchase of cruise and land program; airport transfers are included with the purchase of airfare from AmaWaterways.