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.
This old university town buzzes with energy. Rich in cultural attractions, it also boasts a varied nightlife, with imposing architectural monuments serving as a backdrop. During the ‘Gentse Feesten’ – a ten-day festival of street performance, music and culture that takes place in the city centre every July – these magnificent buildings really come into their own, illuminated by light installations. It is a truly spectacular sight.
Welcome to Cologne! The magnificent Cologne Cathedral, one of Germany's most famous landmarks, towers proudly over the city and attracts attention with its impressive architecture and ornate details. Cosy cafés, lively beer gardens and restaurants stretch along the waterfront inviting you to linger and enjoy, while the charming old town alleyways with their traditional houses, boutiques and breweries convey the flair of past centuries.
Here is where we embark on our exciting Rhine cruise. You should definitely get to know the city of Cologne with its many monuments and attractions. The best way to do this is to arrive one day before your cruise or simply extend your stay after the cruise.
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.
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.
The Westerschelde passage is like a living artery coursing through the heart of the Dutch landscape. Its clear waters reflect the endless sky, while majestic ships proudly glide over the waves. Along the banks rise imposing dikes, protecting the land from the whims of the sea while providing a picturesque backdrop for walkers. Here, where land and water meet, a harmonious interplay of nature and human engineering unfolds.
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.
Discover the oldest city in Holland! Dordrecht, the city on the water, with its countless monuments and small city harbors. Here the three rivers Merwede, Noord and Oude Maas flow together, which give Dordrecht the flair of a city by the sea.
Lelystad - the city between two seas. Located between the Ijsselmeer and the Markermeer, it is the typical Dutch capital of the province of Flevoland. The important nature reserve Oostvaardersplassen is nearby and impresses with its vast biodiversity.
Lelystad - the city between two seas. Located between the Ijsselmeer and the Markermeer, it is the typical Dutch capital of the province of Flevoland. The important nature reserve Oostvaardersplassen is nearby and impresses with its vast biodiversity.
The Wadden Sea, a fascinating and dynamic ecosystem along the North Sea coast, reveals a mysterious world of sandbanks, tidal creeks, and salt marshes at low tide. Here, sky and earth merge into an endless expanse where the interplay of light and shadow reflects on the shallow water.
Take a deep breath. In Harlingen, in Friesland, you’re never far from the sea. The harbour reaches right into the city centre and the Wadden Sea is also close by. A stop in Harlingen is a fantastic opportunity to explore this typical Dutch region – don’t miss it. The city is something of a hidden gem on your Rhine cruise itinerary, since it’s Amsterdam and Antwerp that most people look forward to seeing. But Harlingen is proof that small is beautiful.
Take a deep breath. In Harlingen, in Friesland, you’re never far from the sea. The harbour reaches right into the city centre and the Wadden Sea is also close by. A stop in Harlingen is a fantastic opportunity to explore this typical Dutch region – don’t miss it. The city is something of a hidden gem on your Rhine cruise itinerary, since it’s Amsterdam and Antwerp that most people look forward to seeing. But Harlingen is proof that small is beautiful.
The delightful little town of Hoorn lies on the Ijsselmeer, towards the northern Rhine. Back in the 16th century, Hoorn was one of the Netherlands’ most important ports. Today, many of its buildings still bear witness to this heyday. A visit to Hoorn during your Rhine cruise is an activity not be missed.
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!
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!
The rate A-ROSA Basic incl. Full Board includes the following services:
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 (available on request at reception).
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 (available on request at reception).
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).
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).
