2025 RHINE CASTLES
AND SWISS ALPS
Fairytale Journey to Castles, Vineyards, and Lake Como
Explore fairytale castles, historic vineyards, and the breathtaking Lake Como in Italy on this Rhine River cruise. Begin in Amsterdam, with its canal-laden charm, then venture through Germany, visiting Cologne, Rüdesheim, and Heidelberg. Cruise the UNESCO-designated Rhine Gorge with its 40 castles. Cross into France’s Alsace region in Strasbourg, enjoy Swiss Alps panoramas, and conclude in Lake Como. This dream itinerary spans the Netherlands, Germany, France, Switzerland, and Italy, offering iconic landmarks and majestic landscapes.
7-Night Cruise with 2-nights Amsterdam Pre-Cruise and 3-nights Lake Como Post-Cruise
Trip starts: July 14, 2025
Starting at $3,989 per person double occupancy
Discover fairytale castles and historic vineyards as part of this spectacular Rhine River cruise fantasy. Start by exploring the canal-laden city of Amsterdam, encompassing the Netherlands, Germany, France and Switzerland, as well as iconic landmarks and majestic mountain landscapes, this distinctive itinerary is truly a dream come true.
EXCLUSIVE OFFER
✔️ At least 3 group planning sessions and at least 1 on 1 planning session with expert advice.
✔️ A personalized itinerary with all your trip information, important tips, and a packing list.
What makes AmaWaterWays different from other river cruise companies?
All excursions are included (no need to pay extra) with numerous options.
Sip and Sail social hour -- one hour before dinner to meet and mingle with others on the ship with complimentary drinks.
Fewer staterooms and more public space onboard for everyone to enjoy.
Final payment date 3 months before sailing, instead of 12 months prior, like other river cruise companies.
TRIP ITINERARY
- Optional Pre-Cruise
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.
- Day 1 - Amsterdam (Embarkation)
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)
- Day 2 - Amsterdam, Netherlands
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, Germany
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)
- Day 4 - Rhine Gorge - Rudesheim
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)
- Day 5 - Ludwigshafen, Germany
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)
- Day 6 - Strasbourg, France
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)
- Day 7 - Basel, Switzerland
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)
- Day 8 - Basel - Disembarkation
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)
- Optional Post Cruise - Lake Como
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.
ACCOMMODATION
AmaVenita glides regally down Europe’s great rivers. Her tastefully refined staterooms are appointed with granite desks, and most with refreshing twin-balcony staterooms, so you can enjoy fresh air and scenic views, as well as marble bathrooms with soothing multi-jet showerheads. The inviting Main Restaurant accommodates both those wishing to socialize and those seeking a more intimate meal.
• AMAVENITA CRUISE SHIP •
Amenities
Wellness Activities with a dedicated Wellness Host leading various exercise classes as well as discussions on healthy eating and relaxation techniques, both on board and on shore.
Personalized service from a highly trained Cruise Manager during both cruise and land programs
Internet and Wi-Fi access
Sun deck pool with swim-up bar and walking track
Fitness room, massage services and hair salon
Main Lounge with panoramic views and bar
Daily entertainment including cultural performances
AmaVenita Deck Plan
In addition to AmaWaterways’ signature exquisite, locally sourced cuisine, you’ll find a massage and hair salon, gift shop, specialty coffee station, walking track, heated pool, fitness room and, of course, a fleet of complimentary bikes to use ashore. And each night, the stunning Main Lounge provides an exhilarating backdrop for enjoying performances by local entertainers.
IMPORTANT INFORMATION
Deposit: $400 per person due at booking
Final payment due: March 11, 2025
• Trip protection
• Pre-extension or Post-excursion
2 Nights Amsterdam package- $900 pp double occupancy
3-night Lake Como package-$1,650 pp double occupancy
*Pricing, availability, and special offers can change at any time before the cruise is booked and confirmed.*
BOOKING PROCESS
Once you know what group trip you want to do, sign up for a time to meet me to go over the trip and answer any questions you have.
After the consultation, save your spot on our group trip by letting me know you are ready to put your stateroom on hold. I’ll send you a client profile form so I have the info I need to put your stateroom on hold.
Next, using the quote from the supplier, I will make a video just for you going over the costs, inclusions, extras, and show you where your stateroom is on the ship map.
After you take time to review your proposal, we will make necessary adjustments based on your personal preferences. Want to change your stateroom? No problem at all. We will take care of that. We want to make sure you are happy.
Pop the bubbly! You pay the deposit and know you are officially coming on our group trip! I will be there for you step by step from now until you return. All that’s left for you to do is get the countdown started!
Benefits of Group Trips
Special group offer
At least one 1 on 1 planning session with expert advice to discuss your trip, excursion choices, and flights
Opportunity to extend your trip with expert advice
A personalized itinerary with all your trip information
Important tips for your trip and destination
A packing list specifically for your trip
At least 3 group planning sessions to get ready for your trip
Additional Value
You and your trip are important to us. We always want to provide a high level of service so we include the following for all trips: