We will set off on our exciting Rhine cruise from here, heading for the northern or the southern Rhine. But you shouldn’t miss out on the opportunity to explore this cathedral city, with its wealth of monuments and attractions. The best way is to arrive the day before your cruise departs, so that you can relax – or simply extend your stay in Cologne after the cruise has ended.
Itinerary
The former Dutch fortress of Willemstad is a tranquil little village with a delightful harbor. And of course, a typical dutch town like this can't lack a windmill! During a walk through the quiet town you will surely discover one.
Trips
Experience the historic fortified city on Hollands Diep. Willemstad got its name from William of Orange, who was considered the "father of the fatherland" and was murdered in 1584. Willemstad was particularly characterised by its strategically favourable location on Hollands Diep. Stroll past the old town hall, the domed church and the star-shaped fortress and visit one of the old bunkers.
price:
€ 25 per person
duration:
approx. 2 h
transport:
walking
level:
Moderate
Welcome to a bike tour through enchanting Willemstad, a historic city with a unique charm. By bike, you will not only explore the rich history, but also the picturesque canals of this Dutch pearl. Willemstad is known for its well-preserved fortifications, which you will pass on the tour. Continue through the small town of Klundert and on to Fort Sabrina. Enjoy the passing landscape!
price:
€ 44 per person
duration:
approx. 2.5 h
transport:
Bicycle
level:
Demanding
Hint:
Distance: approx. 33 km
We will now head along the northern Rhine towards Ghent. Here you’ll find splendid architecture, artistic masterpieces, delightful landscapes and absolute tranquillity. The capital of East Flanders is part of a quartet of Flemish centres of art – the others being Antwerp, Bruges and Brussels. Discover Ghent’s treasures, including the baroque Saint Bavo’s Cathedral and the imposing Gravensteen, a moated castle. And in the old town, you’re sure to find a nice place to sample a good cup of coffee and some Belgian delicacies.
Trips
Experience the port and university city of Ghent. In the Middle Ages, Ghent was a powerful city state, today the city has many sights to offer. Stroll past the St. Bvo Cathedral or visit the Count's Castle. Your English-speaking guide will tell you everything you want to know about the city and take you to the corners of Ghent that are worth seeing.
price:
€ 399 per reservation for max. 4 people
duration:
approx. 3 h
transport:
Private tour guide
level:
Moderate
Hint:
This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.
As a university and port city, Ghent has a lot to offer. Let us drive you comfortably to the picturesque old town and pass the Belfort and St. Bavo's Cathedral. A visit to the Gravensteen Castle or a visit to the numerous museums is also recommended. If desired, an English-speaking guide can be booked to introduce you to the history of Ghent.
price:
€ 499 per reservation for max. 4 people
duration:
approx. 3 h
transport:
Private Minivan
level:
Easy
Hint:
This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.
The picturesque old town of Ghent with its beautiful buildings such as the St. Bavo Cathedral or the 100m high bell tower Belfry offer an unforgettable cityscape. Discover the port and university city of Ghent as a couple and let yourself be driven from A to B in your private car.
price:
€ 459 per reservation for max. 2 people
duration:
approx. 3 h
transport:
Private car
level:
Easy
Hint:
This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.
Experience Ghent from a new perspective on this private e-boat tour. You will be picked up in front of the ship and driven comfortably to the canal boat moorings and then you are ready to go. In the comfort of the e-boat, the historic city centre with its various sights passes you by. For example, you will pass the St. Bavo Church, the Belfort and the Gravensteen Castle. Typical for Belgium is not only the delicious chocolate, but also the beer! During your cruise you can taste two typical beers and fortify yourself with a mixed platter.
price:
€ 529 per reservation for max. 6 people
duration:
approx. 2 h
transport:
Minivan, E-Boat and walking
level:
Easy
Hint:
This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.
Discover the highlights of this Flemish city as you are driven past Ghent Belfry (a bell tower that’s almost 100 metres high), the baroque Saint Bavo’s Cathedral, the moated castle and the beautiful guild houses that line the bank of the Lieve Canal. You’ll also have some free time to look around the city centre and sample typical Belgian specialities such as waffles, frites and local beer.
price:
€ 42 per person
duration:
approx. 3.5 h
transport:
depending on the weather, please contact reception in case of rain
level:
Sportlich
Hint:
Distance: approx. 25km
After a short walk from the ship, we will take you on a 40-minute canal tour, where you will experience Ghent from a new perspective. Listen to historical anecdotes about the medieval sights and marvel at the fantastic panoramic views. Passing the St. Bavo Church, the Gravensteen Castle and the Belfort, you will explore the highlights of Ghent on the Leie.
price:
€ 59 per person
duration:
approx. 3 h
transport:
Canalboat and walking
level:
Easy
Hint:
Excursion must be accompanied by crew member
Bruges is considered the most beautiful city in Belgium. No wonder, because the medieval old town within the ramparts is still almost completely preserved. As early as the 12th and 13th centuries, the city blossomed into a world-famous trading metropolis. Your excursion takes you through a beguinage, along the canals through the old town to the market square with its pretty gabled houses and to the 12th century Basilica of the Holy Blood. After visiting this beautiful old town, you have some free time before returning to the ship in Ghent.
price:
€ 65 per person
duration:
approx. 5 h
transport:
Bus and walking
level:
Moderate
The seaside resort of Vlissingen is located directly by the sea and impresses with its beautiful beaches and long promenade. Here, you can relax and enjoy the maritime atmosphere in peace. The history of the region is presented through modern multimedia techniques at the "muZEEm" museum.
Trips
Welcome to an unforgettable experience high above the picturesque landscapes of Middenseeland! Our 30-minute scenic flight offers you the unique opportunity to get a bird's eye view of this enchanting region. Hover with us over the green splendour of the countryside as you glide over rolling hills and traditional farms. The windmills that blend into the scenery give the surroundings a fairytale atmosphere.
price:
€ 1999 per reservation for max. 2 people
transport:
Private people carrier, helicopter, walking
level:
Moderate
One of the most exciting towns in the Dutch province of Zeeland is undoubtedly Vlissingen. The main attractions of Vlissingen are the long promenade - the longest in the Netherlands, by the way - and the pretty beaches. You could almost forget that the town has 300 buildings to which it owes its typical seaside character. Explore them on a guided walk through the coastal city.
price:
€ 25 per person
duration:
approx. 1.5 h
transport:
walking
level:
Moderate
Join us on an excursion to the impressive Delta Works, a masterpiece of hydraulic engineering. Marvel at the imposing scale of the Delta Works, which protects the Netherlands from the rough waves of the North Sea. After an introduction to the Delta Works, explore the storm surge barrier and hear fascinating stories about this impressive project. Afterwards, enjoy some leisure time at Delta Park before returning to the ship by coach.
price:
€ 69 per person
duration:
approx. 4.5 h
transport:
Bus and walking
level:
Moderate
Brussels is both the capital of Belgium and the headquarters of the European Union. A whole host of unique sights – including the famous Manneken Pis – await you. And while you’re in Brussels, make sure you try the many Belgian specialities that the city has to offer – or pick up some original Belgian chocolates as a gift for your loved ones. Mmm – lovely!
Trips
This tour will take you around Belgium’s exciting capital city. It’s a place that immigrants from all corners of the earth have made their home, bringing elements of their own cultures with them. It’s also where modern architecture meets historical pomp and splendour. And, of course, Brussels is the capital of Europe, home to the Council of the European Union, the European Commission, NATO and Euratom. As well as seeing the city’s landmarks such as the Atomium and Manneken Pis, you’ll visit the Grand-Place. With its baroque guild houses and Gothic town hall, it is considered one of the most beautiful squares of its kind in the world and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
price:
€ 59 per person
duration:
approx. 3.5 h
transport:
Bus and walking
level:
Moderate
Welcome to Brussels, the vibrant capital of Belgium, where history, culture and delicious chocolate meet! From our mooring place, you will travel by coach to the centre of Brussels, where you can experience fascinating streets and squares. Discover the charm of the metropolis during individual sightseeing tours and let yourself be enchanted by the impressive architecture.
price:
€ 39 per person
duration:
approx. 4.5 h
transport:
Bus and walking
level:
Moderate
Welcome to the largest fortified town in the Netherlands. In Gorinchem, you don't have to look far to find the town's history, as the former fortifications have been preserved almost in their entirety. A special footpath now leads over the ramparts and promises wonderful vistas. On the 'Langendijk', Gorinchem's most beautiful shopping street, you can experience a great mix of old and new, with modern shops in a historic setting.
Trips
Welcome to Gorinchem, where history blends charmingly with modern flair! Our guided walking tour takes you on a journey past the picturesque canals and historic squares of this fascinating town on the banks of the river Merwede. Stroll across the Grote Markt, past Gothic churches and elegant half-timbered houses. Be enchanted by the picturesque waterways that criss-cross Gorinchem and learn why these canals were once so important for trade.
price:
€ 0
duration:
approx. 1.5 h
transport:
walking
level:
Demanding
Hint:
This excursion is included on your cruise. Please book online in advance.
The small beautiful town of Emmerich on the lower Lower Rhine gives you a nice time out on land during your cruise. Here you can take a stroll along the promenade and enjoy the magnificent view of the Rhine while discovering the "Golden Gate Bridge of the Lower Rhine", a suspension bridge spanning over the Rhine, which, just like its role model, can be seen from afar in vibrant red. Definitely worth taking a souvenir photo!
Trips
Join us on a bike tour through Emmerich. Starting on the banks of the Rhine, explore the picturesque Rhine cycle path. Accompanied by the Rhine, you cycle in the direction of De Bijland beach to the largest bridge across the Rhine, the "Golden Gate" bridge. Along Emmerich's Rhine promenade to St Vitus Church, you will learn exciting information about the city.
price:
€ 49 per person
duration:
approx. 3 h
transport:
Bicycle
level:
Demanding
Hint:
Distance: approx. 36 km
Experience the Hanseatic city of Emmerich and discover the story of the ferrywoman Marieken von Emmerik. Join us on a journey through time along the banks of the Rhine with a view of the "Golden Gate" bridge of the Lower Rhine and learn how life was in those days. Our ferrywoman will give you a humorous first-hand account of the old professions, the ferrymen, the raftsmen, the fishermen and the pilots. Be excited and get to know Emmerich in a new way.
price:
€ 25 per person
duration:
approx. 1.5 h
transport:
walking
level:
Moderate
Your exciting Rhine cruise ends in Cologne, but your wonderful memories will last forever. Before you start your journey home, use the day to take a further look around North Rhine-Westphalia or explore the city. The magnificent cathedral of Cologne is an absolute must-see. See you soon and Ahoy!
A-ROSA Premium All-Inclusive
Enjoy your most beautiful time with maximum comfort and with the all-round carefree package: A-ROSA Premium All-Inclusive.
Your desired cabin? Voilà! Sauna, fitness area, pool? Always at your service! Top culinary menus? Enjoy your meal! Attractive discounts on all massage and beauty treatments? Of course! Plus all transfers and many other benefits that will always put a smile on your face, while you have nothing to do but think about your next wish.
- Full Board Plus: extensive breakfast, lunch and dinner buffets, additional embarkation snack and tea and coffee hour. On many cruises, seasonal supplements such as a midnight snack
- High-quality drinks included throughout the day: tea, coffee and coffee specialities, soft drinks, beers, sparkling wine and a selection of wines, cocktails and long drinks. Also besides the lunch and dinner hours. Exceptions are specialities subject to surcharges and champagne.
- Super Early Booking Discount for bookings made until 31 October 2024
- A-ROSA travel cancellation insurance (booking until 30 November 2023)
- Children up to and including 15 years of age travel free of charge on Deck 1.¹
- Change booking one time free of charge up to 30 days prior to departure.
- Half-day excursion included (from 7-night cruises)
- English-speaking travel and hotel management on our international ships.
- Comprehensive service concept with guest relations management.
- Destination Scouts will help you make the most of every city experience with insider tips and recommendations.
- Complimentary room service in every cabin category.²
- Free use of the on-board facilities such as sauna and fitness room.
- A-ROSA App with information about your cruise.
- Transfer between railway station³ or airport and ship⁴
- 15 % discount on treatments in our SPA-ROSA
- Free e-bikes for independent exploration⁵
- Free WiFi (excluding streaming services)
- Bathroom amenities and bathrobe in the cabin
- On-board entertainment
- Port charges
¹ Children up to and including 15 years of age travel free of charge when accompanied by at least one (two in Cat. G) supervising adult on Deck 1. From Deck 2 children receive a 30 % discount. Furthermore, children up to 7 years of age accompanied by 2 supervising adults can use a sofa bed free of charge on the A-ROSA SENA in categories B - D. On the A-ROSA ALVA, A-ROSA ALEA & A-ROSA CLEA children accompanied by at least one supervising adult receive a 30 % discount. The children’s discount is only valid for the cruise itself. Limited availabilities on all cruises.
² Except A-ROSA ALVA, A-ROSA ALEA & A-ROSA CLEA.
³Guests receive an extra voucher, valid for day of embarkation or disembarkation in Cologne and Engelhartszell. The transfer in Paris and Lyon is only included when booking the train tickets through A-ROSA.
⁴ The transfer is included when booking the flight through A-ROSA. You will receive an extra voucher with your travel documents.
⁵A-ROSA ALVA, A-ROSA ALEA & A-ROSA CLEA: E-bike rental not available.
Dates & Prices
Spacious and comfortable outside cabin. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe.
Spacious and comfortable outside cabin. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe.
Spacious and comfortable outside cabin. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe.
Spacious and comfortable outside cabin with Juliette balcony. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe.
Spacious and comfortable outside cabin. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe.
Spacious and comfortable outside cabin. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe.
Spacious and comfortable outside cabin. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe.
Spacious and comfortable outside cabin with Juliette balcony. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe.
Arrival & hotel
You want a relaxed arrival and departure? Then choose one of these hotels! Your advantage: You arrive already one or two days before disembarkation and can consciously look forward to the journey with A-ROSA. Or you can let your vacation come to an end in a very juicy way before you start your journey home. All hotels are personally and carefully selected by us to round off your vacation.
The Maritim Hotel Cologne is located directly on the Rhine, only a few steps away from the charming old town, the cathedral and the city centre as well as the central station. The hotel impresses with its extraordinary architecture and has 454 rooms and suites, all of which are equipped with a bathroom/toilet, mini fridge (unfilled), safe, radio, TV and a telephone. In the spacious, glass-roofed hotel lobby you will find a variety of boutiques and restaurants.
Prices include the tax for the promotion and advancement of culture. Not valid during certain exhibitions in Cologne.
Included services
Overnight stay incl. breakfast, extended stay possible
Double occupancy
€ 119 pp
Single occupancy
€ 179 pp
Double occupancy
€ 129 pp
Single occupancy
€ 209 pp
Double occupancy
€ 159 pp
Single occupancy
€ 279 pp
Luxury in the middle of the city center is what the Dorint Hotel am Heumarkt Cologne offers you. The panoramic elevator with a view of the cathedral takes you to your chic room, which includes everything you need to work and relax. In addition, an exclusive fitness and wellness area (fee required) with glass-roofed pool and the chic Harry's New-York Bar await you.
Prices include the tax for the promotion and advancement of culture. Not valid during certain exhibitions in Cologne.
Included services
Overnight stay incl. breakfast, extended stay possible
Double occupancy
€ 129 pp
Single occupancy
€ 189 pp
Double occupancy
€ 169 pp
Double occupancy
€ 209 pp
Excelsior Hotel Ernst – Cologne's only member of The Leading Hotels of the World – offers a unique combination of tradition and innovation. The hotel’s prominent location near Cologne Cathedral means that it is easy to get to, while the harmonious colour scheme and classic yet modern furnishings create a timeless atmosphere. All rooms and suites have free Wi-Fi for mobile devices and are equipped with SuitePad, the hotel’s digital concierge service. The Michelin-starred restaurant "taku" welcomes you with deliciously authentic East Asian masterpieces. And in the gourmet restaurant "Hanse Stube" you can experience French cuisine with local influences. Access to the hotel gym, sauna and steam bath, use of your hotel room’s minibar and a shoeshine service are all included in the price. Prices include culture tax. Offer not valid during certain trade fairs in Cologne.
We would be pleased to make you an offer based on daily updated rates.
For further information, please contact service@a-rosa.com
Included services
Overnight stay incl. breakfast, extended stay possible
The listed Steigenberger Hotel is located in the heart of the Rhine metropolis Cologne, just a few minutes away from historic sights. Within a few minutes you can reach Cologne Cathedral as well as the famous Rhine river promenade and other hotspots of the city.
The 305 modern rooms, some of which even have a view over the city Cologne, are more than just a hotel room. The comfortable furnishings of all rooms include air conditioning, satellite TV, desk, free local calls, safe, minibar as well as a Nespresso coffee machine and a kettle for making tea. The bathrooms are equipped with shower or bathtub.
The Bar Bistro 19NullZwo offers the perfect atmosphere with modern colours and shapes for short breaks with delicious coffee specialities, snacks or a treat for body and soul.
We would be pleased to make you an offer based on daily updated rates.
For further information, please contact service@a-rosa.com