When your Rhine cruise calls at Antwerp, you’ll quickly realise that this small Flemish port is no stranger to festive sparkle. In fact, sparkle was virtually invented there: this time-honoured commercial city is a major diamond centre, where precious stones are polished until they twinkle like stars. Antwerp itself is also a jewel – from the ship, you’ll have a wonderful view of its grand houses with their decorated stepped gables.
In Amsterdam, the city of 1539 bridges, Christmas-lit houseboats bob along the canals. The creative Dutch outdo each other when it comes to Christmas decorations. The brighter it glows, the better it is. In addition to ice rinks for skating and Dutch-style Christmas markets, many museums are mostly open for those who crave a contrast to angel choirs and tinsel.
Düsseldorf’s old town – also known as ‘the world’s longest bar’ – is the heart of the city. Freshly pulled Altbier (the local beer) in over 300 pubs brings a wide variety of people together for friendly nights out. But you don’t need alcohol to have fun in Düsseldorf. Luxury shopping boulevards like Königsallee, Kö for short, are great places to buy Christmas presents, while snow-covered green spaces and the beautiful Rhine Promenade are lovely places to stroll while taking a break from the legion of wonderful museums in this city of art.
Your exciting festive cruise begins here. Before you set sail, take the opportunity to discover the city and it's world famous buildings. We recommend arriving a day before your cruise, or simply extending your stay after the cruise to really take everything in leisurely.
The port city of Antwerp is an absolute must-see. Rich in art and culture, it is also known as the ‘Diamond City’ due to its important role in the diamond trade. Antwerp is particularly enjoyable for foodies, thanks to the many tasty Belgian specialities on offer there – including waffles, chocolates and chips.
Antwerp is not only known for being Europe's third-largest port. It is also the most important city in the world when it comes to diamonds – with most of the world’s diamonds traded here. Our bus will pass the beautiful Cathedral of Our Lady (Onze-Lieve-Vrouwekathedraal). It is one of the highlights of Brabantine Gothic and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Afterwards, you will take a stroll through the historic centre with the Grote Markt and the lavishly decorated Renaissance town hall. A small tour then takes you through Antwerp's diamond district.
€ 59.00 per person
approx. 4 Hours
Bus and walking
Moderate
Christmas Eve: You will spend Christmas Eve in a very special metropolis: Amsterdam. From romantic canal cruises to traditional Christmas markets and delicious treats - here you will find everything your heart desires. Let yourself be enchanted by the unique festive atmosphere of Amsterdam and experience a holiday that you will never forget.
Christmas Day: On Christmas Day, illuminated houseboats bob along the canals in Amsterdam, the city of 1539 bridges. The creative Dutch outdo each other when it comes to Christmas decorations. The brighter the lights, the better. In addition to ice rinks for ice skating and the Dutch-style Christmas markets, most of the city's numerous museums are also open for all those who crave a contrasting programme to the choirs of angels and tinsel.
A canal cruise through Amsterdam's old town is something special. This trip on board a typical grachten boat will allow you to discover some of Amsterdam's countless interwoven grachten canals – a 100 km network still used to transport goods today – as well as the delightful houses and bridges that they pass by and under.
This excursion is only available on the cruise Rhine Metropolises on the following dates:
24 October | 29 October | 3 November 2026
€ 52.00
approx. 2 Hours
By boat and walking
Easy
Boxing Day: Düsseldorf welcomes you on Boxing Day. Immerse yourself in the rich history and modern flair of the city, which is known for its cultural diversity and hospitality. Visit the festively decorated Königsallee or explore the charming Old Town district, also known as ‘the longest bar in the world’.
Explore the capital of North Rhine-Westphalia by bus. On your tour you will pass the city's landmarks, the old Renaissance town hall, the splendid courtyard garden, whose oldest parts were created in the 18th century, and of course the famous Königsallee, also called 'Kö'. Of course, we also go into the city centre to have a closer look at some sights. Afterwards you can enjoy the view over Düsseldorf from the Rhine Tower, which is not only a TV tower. At 240.5 m, it is the largest building in the city and has also the biggest decimal clock in the world.
€ 69.00 per person
approx. 3 Hours
Bus and walking
Moderate
This excursion will only take place if the minimum number of participants is reached before departure.
Your festive Christmas cruise on the Rhine comes to an end in Cologne. However, before you set off on your journey home with a thousand memories of your trip, why not use the day to explore North Rhine-Westphalia and the city of Cologne? The imposing cathedral of Cologne is a must-see. Happy New Year, see you soon and ahoy!
The rate A-ROSA Basic incl. Full Board includes the following services:
Drinks Package Premium All-Inclusive Plus
Every wish will come true at the bar! Treat yourself to a wide variety of flavours. For just € 39 per night and person at the Premium All-Inclusive fare, you can enjoy tea, coffee and coffee specialities, the most popular cocktails, long drinks and spirits in addition to the already included premium drinks. (during bar opening hours)
Transfer railway station - Ship - railway station
You have the option of booking our transfer service from the railway station to the ship and back for € 28 per person in Passau and € 33 per person in Cologne. The transfer service is only offered on the day of embarkation and disembarkation. For further information, please see your travel information.
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 (available on request at reception).
