AmaWaterways | 7 Nights | Amsterdam to Basel
2026 Smithsonian Departures: May 14, June 20, July 18, September 26
Embark on the unforgettable Captivating Rhine: A River Cruise from Amsterdam to Basel. Journey through scenic landscapes, exploring historic cities, medieval castles, and culinary delights of the Netherlands, Germany and France on this special 7-night river cruise, part of AmaWaterways’ new collaboration with Smithsonian Journeys. Marvel at the scenic Rhine Gorge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where more than 40 castles cling to the riverbanks, and visit charming towns like Rüdesheim and Heidelberg, home to medieval castles and unique attractions. Travel via historic cities like Düsseldorf, Cologne, and Strasbourg, where you can enjoy local wines and culinary delights. Plus, enjoy specially curated tours to the world-renowned art collection of the Dutch masters at the Rijksmuseum, the roman ruins of Cologne, the European Parliament in Strasbourg and the UNESCO-designated Neuf-Brisach Citadel. You will also have the unique opportunity to engage with and learn from two Smithsonian Journeys Experts throughout your journey whose specialized expertise will further immerse you in the history, art or culture of the region.
AAA Member Benefits and Special Offers:
AmaWaterways' New Alliance with Smithsonian Journeys
AmaWaterways is thrilled to announce a new alliance with Smithsonian Journeys, the travel program of the Smithsonian Institution and a leader in authentic and enriching small-group travel. Our new shared collection of European sailings provides opportunities to engage with a variety of Smithsonian Journeys Experts. Chosen for their charisma and expertise, these extremely knowledgeable individuals have dedicated entire careers to pursuing their passions and will offer incredible insights to ensure your journey is as captivating as it is meaningful.
Every Smithsonian Journeys Departure Includes:
*For guests arriving/departing on embarkation and disembarkation days who are booked on cruise only. Terms apply; ask for details.
Day 1: Amsterdam - Embarkation
Board the ship in Amsterdam for yourCaptivating Rhine cruise.
Day 2: Amsterdam
There are 165 canals in Amsterdam, and you’ll get enjoy some of them on your canal cruise. Later in the day, set sail out of Amsterdam to Utrecht, where you can explore this charming town on a walking tour or sip beer during a special tasting tour.
Day 3: Düsseldorf
As a leading hub for German culture, commerce and architecture, Düsseldorf is a must-visit city for any travelers on the Rhine. Here, you may explore this grand city on the Rhine by joining a walking tour, concluding with a tasting of Altbier, a local specialty brewed using traditional techniques. If you’re feeling adventurous, take a brief trip to the nearby city of Cologne. Join a guided tour through the enchanting Old Town, where you will see sites such as the Cologne Rathaus, Germany’s oldest town hall; the Fishmarkt, which dates back to the 12th century, and the Great St. Martin Church.
Day 4: Rhine Gorge - Rüdesheim
Cruise through the captivating UNESCO-designated Rhine Gorge, the most stunningly beautiful stretch of the river before reaching the winemaking town of Rüdesheim*. Join a wine tasting to discover the flavors of the town’s iconic vineyards. Or drink up the stunning views by soaring high above the vineyards with a gondola ride to the Niederwalddenkmal. For a more active adventure, hike through the town’s beautiful vineyards or join a guided bike tour along the scenic Rhine River. Later in the day, let Siegfried’s Mechanical Instrument Cabinet charm you with its remarkable collection of self-playing musical instruments; or taste one of the town’s special delights, Rüdesheimer coffee, ceremoniously made with brandy, coffee and whipped cream.
Day 5: Ludwigshafen
Ludwigshafen is your gateway to a choice of three excursions. Visit Heidelberg, the perfectly preserved medieval city nestled in the Neckar River Valley along Germany’s Castle Road. Discover the iconic red sandstone Heidelberg Castle and Great Vat, an 18th-century, 49,000-gallon wine cask. For a more active adventure while in Heidelberg, join a guided hike up the Philosopher’s Path, aptly named during the Romantic Period, and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Alternatively, you can visit one of Germany’s oldest cities, Speyer, known for the largest Romanesque cathedral in Europe—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—and the medieval Old Gate, Altpörtel. Or join a guided bike tour along the shores of the river Neckar and enjoy a cycling break to explore the picturesque medieval town of Ladenburg.
Day 6: Strasbourg, France
Strasbourg offers flavors of both France and Germany because of its borderline location. Enjoy walking through the iconic “La Petite France” district, lifted straight from the pages of a fairytale. Wander through charming streets past the Cathédrale de Nôtre Dame with its famous astronomical clock. Alternatively, take a guided bike ride through the city and Parc de l’Orangerie.
Day 7: Breisach, Germany
Breisach is your gateway to several different excursions. Step back in time with a visit to the enchanting Alsatian town of Colmar, which looks almost the same as it did in the 16th century. On your walking tour, admire historic architecture and perhaps get a glimpse of the Statue of Liberty, a small replica of the famous version in New York, to commemorate the sculptor’s Colmar birthplace. Those wishing for a more active excursion can cycle through the countryside, or hike through the heart of the Kaiserstuhl, a volcanic region in the Rhine plain known for its unique landscapes, vineyards, and exceptional biodiversity.
Day 8: Basel, Switzerland - Disembarkation
After breakfast, bid farewell to Switzerland and prepare for your return flight home.
Start: May 14, 2026 End: May 21, 2026 Price: $3,949 pp Price My Trip |
Start: June 20, 2026 End: June 27, 2026 Price: $3,949 pp Price My Trip |
Start: July 18, 2026 End: July 25, 2026 Price: $3,699 pp Price My Trip |
Start: September 26, 2026 End: October 3, 2026 Price: $4,599 pp Price My Trip |
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