From Amsterdam to Basel · Europe (River) · 11 nights
From Amsterdam to Basel
AmaWaterways’ sophisticated ships offer spacious, beautifully decorated accommodation, along with inviting and contemporary public spaces.
These innovative ships feature a heated sun deck swimming pool
and large ‘twin balconies’ in many staterooms. Enjoy the informal
style during the day whilst relaxing on the Sundeck, and in the
evening indulge in the gourmet cuisine in the main dining room or
The Chef’s Table.
Amsterdam is one of our very favourite cities to visit, as well as also being a perfect base to explore the nearby landscape of windmills and dikes. The Amsterdam canal belt is now officially recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, and from them there are so many neighbourhoods to explore, such as the Jordaan with its higgledy-piggledy streets and its famed garden courtyards (hofjes). There are also a wealth of famous museums and galleries to choose from, such as the Van Gogh Museum, the Rijksmuseum and the Anne Frank House, not to mention some more, shall we say, quirky options.
Cologne is a wonderfully warm and welcoming city, its skyline dominated by one of the most beautiful Gothic cathedrals in Europe. You will likely spend most of your time in the attractive Altstadt (Old Town), home to beer halls aplenty and some fascinating museums.
Historic Lahnstein, where the Rhine and Lahn rivers meet, is set against a stunning backdrop of the winding river framed by forests and hills. Explore its charming old town with narrow streets and half-timbered houses, and don't miss a visit to Burg Lahneck, a medieval castle offering breathtaking views over the Rhine Valley.
One of the prettiest towns in the Moselle valley, Cochem is a popular stop for river cruise ships. With an old town full of half-timbered houses and a castle perched on a hill it’s a quintessentially German scene, and the riverside promenade is lovely during the sunny summer months.
The pretty town of Bernkastel lies in the heart of the Moselle wine region, and is known for its excellent dry whites based on the Riesling grape. The picturesque half-timbered houses of the old town date back to the Middle Ages, and there are plenty of wine taverns where you can enjoy a glass or two.
The pretty little town of Rüdesheim, situated on a bend in the Rhine surrounded by vineyards, is a popular destination for travellers looking for a slice of quintessentially German village life. The Drosselgasse, a narrow cobbled lane flanked by old timber frame buildings, is particularly atmospheric.
Most travellers use Ludwigshafen as a jumping off point to explore nearby Heidelberg and its sandstone castle with sprawling gardens; the Philosophenweg (Philosopher's Path) that offers breathtaking views of the castle, city, and river; and the historic Old Town where church spires punctuate the skyline. Alternatively stroll through the medieval charm of Ladenburg on the banks of the Rhine, that describes itself as the oldest town in Germany.
Strasbourg is the capital of France’s Alsace region, right next to the border with Germany, and there is a tangible Germanic influence that sets the city a little apart from the rest of France. Highlights include the beautiful Gothic cathedral, the old town’s fairytale half-timbered houses, and the pictureque canals of the Petite France district.
Breisach is a small town on the western fringe of the Black Forest, separated from the French region of Alsace by a bend in the river Rhine. This proximity to France is reflected in a vibrant food and wine scene, and architectural highlights include the hilltop St Stephen's cathedral.
Basel lies where Switzerland, France and Germany meet, a sophisticated and multicultural city with a picturesque setting astride the river Rhine. The medieval Old Town is exceptionally well preserved, best appreciated from the summit of the hilltop cathedral, which offers incredible views across the city.
