5Nights

Rhine Metropolises 2025

Illuminated stone bridge over a canal in Amsterdam at dusk with historic houses and trees in the background
Port in Antwerp at dusk. In the port are historical boats and yachts. In the background, historical and modern buildings.

Highlights of the Rhine River Cruise

Make your way to Belgian treasures, Dutch lust for life and riverboats on the Ruhr.

From Cologne to Willemstad, Antwerp, Amsterdam (Lelystad*) and Düsseldorf to Cologne.

Beurs voor Diamanthandel, the Belgian diamond bourse, has north-facing windows, because it’s important to keep sunlight to a minimum when evaluating the colour and purity of the stones. Antwerp is an old diamond-trading city, but it also has a more down-to-earth side. The city’s most famous chip shop is Frituur N°1 where Maria subjects the truly exquisite chips to a dual-fry process. Amsterdam’s treasures include its diverse range of museums, its glittering canals and, most importantly, its relaxed multicultural society, where every visitor immediately feels at home. Duisburg in Germany’s Ruhr region (or “Pott”) has an equally international quality. Duisburg is a true city on water: the Rhine, the Ruhr, the Rhine-Herne Canal and the world’s largest inland port are all waiting to be explored. When you dock here and take a look at the huge ships that sail the world’s seas, you’re bound to feel a little bit of wanderlust yourself.

View of a canal in Amsterdam with traditional houses and houseboats under a cloudy sky. On the bank are trees, bicycles, and passersby.

Amsterdam

The Dutch capital offers its visitors a wealth of contrasts on this Rhine cruise. That’s partly due to it having long been a city of immigrants – from other EU countries as well as from Morocco, Turkey and Central Africa. Over the years, these newcomers have all brought their ideas and customs with them, creating a real melting pot of cultures. But the city itself is also full of contrasts: splendid historical buildings stand alongside new constructions, the traditional lower town differs from the elegant upper town, and great museums meet experimental crossover projects at abandoned factory premises. Cities don’t get much more exciting than this.

Port in Antwerp at dusk. In the port are historical boats and yachts. In the background, historical and modern buildings.

Antwerp

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.

View from a wooden bridge with a glass railing onto Düsseldorf with the Rhine Tower and modern buildings on the riverbank, in sunshine and the reflecting Rhine with bridges in the background.

Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf's historic city center is also known as "the longest bar in the world". In over 300 pubs, the freshly tapped Altbier brings a wide variety of people together. Of course, you can also have fun in Dusseldorf without alcohol. The luxury boulevards such as the "Kö" invite you to take a stroll, the green parks and the beautiful Rhine promenade invite you to take a break - if only there weren't so many museums to visit! 

Itinerary

Route map Rhine metropolises with the ports Cologne, Düsseldorf, Amsterdam, and Antwerp.
Route map Rhine metropolises with the ports Cologne, Düsseldorf, Amsterdam, and Antwerp.

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.

Panoramic view of the city of Cologne with the Cologne Cathedral at sunset. In the foreground, the Hohenzollern Bridge, which crosses the Rhine.

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.

Luftaufnahme von Willemstad mit historischen Stadtmauern, umgeben von Wasser, grünen Feldern und einem Hafen mit Segelbooten

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:

€ 29.00 per person

duration:

approx. 2 Hours

transport:

walking

level:

Moderate

Luftaufnahme von Willemstad, einer sternförmigen Festungsstadt umgeben von Wassergräben und grüner Landschaft, mit einem Hafen und Booten im Hintergrund

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!

The excursion cannot be booked for cruises with the A-ROSA ALEA or A-ROSA CLEA.

price:

€ 49.00 per person

duration:

approx. 2.5 Hours

transport:

depending on the weather, please contact reception in case of rain

level:

Sportlich

Hint:

Distance: approx. 33km

A couple embark on their cycling trip from the adjacent river cruise ship. Both are pushing their bicycles, and the woman is leading.

Join us to historic Breda and discover the charming and lively city. Breda has been awarded for the best city centre in the Netherlands because of the numerous street cafés and trendy restaurants. Take a stroll and discover the history of Breda with its historical monuments, such as the Begijnhof and Breda Castle. You will also pass the city's landmark, the Grote Kerk, which can be seen from almost every square of the city.

price:

€ 59.00 per person

duration:

approx. 4 Hours

transport:

Bus and walking

level:

Moderate

View of a narrow street in Breda with historic buildings and the church Grote Kerk in the background

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.

Port in Antwerp at dusk. In the port are historical boats and yachts. In the background, historical and modern buildings.

Trips

Are you interested in exploring the diamond district in more depth? Or would you like to find out where to buy the best chocolates? Your private, local tour guide is an expert on Antwerp and can show you all of its highlights. You’ll decide exactly what you want to see and do, depending on your own personal interests.

price:

€ 359.00 per reservation for max. 4 people

duration:

approx. 3.5 Hours

transport:

german tour guide only

level:

Moderate

Hint:

This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

Hint:

This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

Port in Antwerp at dusk. In the port are historical boats and yachts. In the background, historical and modern buildings.

Booking a private people carrier will ensure that you travel through the city in comfort, whether you choose to visit the Cathedral of Our Lady, the diamond district or the fourth most beautiful train station in the world. You can also book an expert tour guide at the same time if you wish. Enjoy getting to know the fantastic city of Antwerp on a tour that’s as individual as you are.

price:

€ 499.00 per reservation for max. 4 people

duration:

approx. 3.5 Hours

transport:

Private Minivan

level:

Easy

Hint:

This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

Hint:

This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

View of the port of Antwerp with numerous boats and modern buildings under a clear sky.

Let your private driver take you around the city and show you the highlights of Antwerp. It’s up to you to decide what you want to see: The Cathedral of Our Lady or the diamond district, perhaps? You can also book an expert tour guide at the same time if you wish – a great way to find out everything you wanted to know about this beautiful city.

price:

€ 459.00 per reservation for max. 2 people

duration:

approx. 3.5 Hours

transport:

Private car

level:

Easy

Hint:

This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

Hint:

This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

Historic buildings and church tower in Antwerp under blue sky

Antwerp. The city of diamonds, but also the city of chocolate! Here, dreams come true for every chocolate lover. In Antwerp's Chocolate Museum you will learn all about the history and origins of chocolate in a fun way. Of course, after observing how the cocoa bean is turned into delicious chocolate, you can't miss out on a taste. Afterwards, you will walk through Antwerp and to the Grote Markt, passing one chocolaterie after another.

price:

€ 999.00 per reservation for max. 4 people

duration:

approx. 4 Hours

transport:

Minivan and walking

level:

Moderate

Hint:

This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

Hint:

This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

Stacked chocolate pieces with nuts on a wooden table, with more chocolate pieces in the background

From the green to the Belgian port city of Antwerp. Get to know the most beautiful places and sights of the city while playing golf! The hole, as it is called in classic golf, is simply replaced by monuments, fountains and other sights. Explore Antwerp in a playful way and discover stately buildings and funny stories.

price:

€ 999.00 per reservation for max. 8 people

duration:

approx. 3.5 Hours

transport:

Transfer and walking

level:

Demanding

Hint:

This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

Hint:

This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

Two white golf balls are lying close together on a sunny golf course with a blurred background.

Experience Antwerp in a special and comfortable way - with a personalised tuk tuk ride that takes you through the most beautiful and exciting corners of the Diamond City! Sit back and relax while your personal driver takes you to the highlights of Antwerp, such as the impressive Cathedral of Our Lady.

price:

€ 359.00 per reservation for max. 2 people

duration:

approx. 2 Hours

transport:

Tuk Tuk and walking

level:

Easy

Hint:

This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

Historic gabled houses on the Grote Markt in Antwerp under a clear blue sky.

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.

price:

€ 59.00 per person

duration:

approx. 4 Hours

transport:

Bus and walking

level:

Moderate

Historic gabled houses on the Grote Markt in Antwerp under a clear blue sky.

You can experience Antwerp's cosmopolitan and lively atmosphere particularly intensively by bike. You cycle past the richly decorated Renaissance town hall, through the pretty Art Nouveau neighbourhood and along the Scheldt. You will not only cycle along the Scheldt, but also underground through a tunnel to the other side. Not to forget: the diamond quarter. After all, nowhere else in the world are so many of these precious stones traded as here. From the viewing platform of the ‘MAS - Museum aan de Stroom’ you can look out over the city.

The excursion cannot be booked for cruises with the A-ROSA ALEA or A-ROSA CLEA.

price:

€ 49.00 per person

duration:

approx. 3 Hours

transport:

depending on the weather, please contact reception in case of rain

level:

Sportlich

Hint:

Distance: approx. 19km

A couple embark on their cycling trip from the adjacent river cruise ship. Both are pushing their bicycles, and the woman is leading.

Amsterdam is an incredibly varied city. It’s old yet modern, relaxed yet bustling, and arty while also being commercial. With almost 7,500 listed buildings, it has the highest concentration of historical monuments in the whole country. When your Rhine cruise calls at Amsterdam, you’ll be able to discover a piece of history around every corner. 

*In individual cases, the local authorities in Amsterdam may not confirm the reserved berths. If no berth is allocated, our guests will be provided with a shuttle bus to Amsterdam.

Blick auf Amsterdams historische Skyline mit Kanälen, Brücken, traditionellen Häusern und Kirchtürmen bei klarem Himmel

Trips

Let your private English-speaking tour guide help you discover the best of Amsterdam – whether you’d like to receive advice about what to buy at the flower market, take a stroll along the most picturesque canals or go on a guided tour of the Rijksmuseum. You’ll decide what you want to do, and your guide will tailor the tour to meet your individual requirements. This is also your only opportunity to go on a guided tour of the prettiest part of Amsterdam – the red-light district. The rules changed since the last few years, and large groups of tourists are no longer allowed here. So, if you want to explore the oldest part of the city with the most attractive architecture in depth, this is your chance.

price:

€ 359.00 per reservation for max. 4 people

duration:

approx. 3 Hours

transport:

german tour guide only

level:

Moderate

Hint:

This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

Hint:

This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

View of a canal in Amsterdam with traditional houses and houseboats under a cloudy sky. On the bank are trees, bicycles, and passersby.

Would you like to explore the city on your own while travelling in comfort? Then book a private people carrier for up to 4 people. You can also book an expert tour guide at the same time if you wish. Whether you go alone, as a couple or with new friends you’ve made on your cruise, you’ll be able to discover the parts of Amsterdam that you’re most interested in.

price:

€ 559.00 per reservation for max. 4 people

duration:

approx. 3 Hours

transport:

Private Minivan

level:

Easy

Hint:

This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

Hint:

This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

Blick auf Amsterdams Grachten mit historischen Gebäuden und Booten auf dem Wasser, während der Abenddämmerung.

Would you like to explore Amsterdam individually with your partner or travel companion while travelling in comfort? Your driver can take you to museums, shops and the red-light district. You can also book an expert tour guide at the same time if you wish.

price:

€ 499.00 per reservation for max. 2 people

duration:

approx. 3 Hours

transport:

Private car

level:

Easy

Hint:

This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

Hint:

This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

Blick auf Amsterdams Stadtzentrum mit Kanälen, historischen Gebäuden, grünen Bäumen und einer Fußgängerbrücke über das Wasser

There is no better way to explore Amsterdam than from the water. The exclusive canal tour, just for you, takes you through small canals to see Amsterdam's sights and architectural treasures. Your private guide will tell you everything you need to know about this enchanting city. A very special highlight during your holiday!

price:

€ 1,199.00 per reservation for max. 7 people

duration:

approx. 2.5 Hours

transport:

By boat and walking

level:

Easy

Hint:

price per boat, max. 7 Guests

Hint:

price per boat, max. 7 Guests

Blick auf Amsterdams Grachten mit historischen Gebäuden und Booten auf dem Wasser, während der Abenddämmerung.

Discover Amsterdam's unique canals by pedal boat. From the ship you walk to the famous Keizersgracht and from there you can start right away. While the sun is reflecting in the water, you pass the beautiful canal houses and enjoy the charm of the canals. There is no better way to discover the architectural history and the historical sights. A English-speaking tour guide can be booked on request.

price:

€ 499.00 per reservation for max. 4 people

duration:

approx. 2 Hours

transport:

walking and pedal boat

level:

Demanding

Hint:

This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

Hint:

This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

An Amsterdam canal with historic buildings, trees, and boats. In the foreground, there is a paved path and bicycles are attached to the fence on the canal bank.

Discover the heritage-protected open-air museum in comfort with our e-bikes. We will take you from Amsterdam to Zaanstad. You will enjoy a leisurely ride through the beautiful Dutch countryside towards the Zaanse Schans. In the Zaanse Schans you will be shown Dutch life in the 17th and 18th centuries. After a short walk, you continue past windmills and back to your ship.

The excursion cannot be booked for cruises with the A-ROSA ALEA or A-ROSA CLEA.

price:

€ 59.00 per person

duration:

approx. 3.5 Hours

transport:

depending on the weather, please contact reception in case of rain

level:

Sportlich

Hint:

Distance: approx. 39km

View of bicycle handlebars with tulips in a bag on the bike basket. The cyclists face and hands are cropped. A bridge in Amsterdam is being crossed with historic buildings and bicycles in the background.

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.

Will only take place on the following dates: 29.10. | 02.11. | 03.11. | 07.11. | 12.11.2025

price:

€ 52.00

duration:

approx. 2 Hours

transport:

By boat and walking

level:

Easy

Typische Amsterdamer Grachtenhäuser in verschiedenen Farben spiegeln sich im ruhigen Wasser eines Kanals mit kleinen Booten und Bäumen am Ufer

A myriad of tulips, crocuses, daffodils and other bulb flowers provide a sea of colour at Keukenhof. No less than 7 million flowers are planted here every year for 30 shows. The walkways through the 32-hectare park lead to seven inspirational gardens. And if the weather doesn't play ball, you can always marvel at the splendour of the various pavilions. Everywhere you will discover the motto 'A World of Colours'. Bright colours, pastels, from light to dark. Discover a colourful sea of flowers.

Will only take place on the following dates:
Rhine Mini Cruise Netherlands 21.03. | 19.03. | 23.03.2025
Northern Rhine Experience 06.04. | 27.04. | 03.05.2025
Rhine Metropolises 25.03. | 27.03. | 30.03. | 01.04. | 04.04.2025
Rhine Experience Amsterdam & Rotterdam 29.03. | 05.04. | 12.04. | 19.04. | 26.04. | 03.05.2025
Rhine City Experience 19.03. | 24.03.2025

price:

€ 82.00 per person

duration:

approx. 4.5 Hours

transport:

Bus and walking

level:

Moderate

A tulip field in Keukenhof, Netherlands, surrounded by forest, with blooming purple tulips.

Helau! Carnival is at home in the German city of Düsseldorf. But this Rhine metropolis has a lot more to offer beyond that. The state capital of North Rhine-Westphalia enchants visitors with its long history, its diverse range of cultural attractions (including museums and theatres) and its offbeat architecture. And you’ll find Fortuna here too – in the form of a football club. Lucky you! Discover Düsseldorf during your Rhine cruise and you’ll have plenty of stories to tell when you get home.

Panoramic view of the modern architecture at Düsseldorfs Media Harbour with illuminated buildings at sunset. The lights are reflected in the Rhine.

Trips

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.

price:

€ 69.00 per person

duration:

approx. 3 Hours

transport:

Bus and walking

level:

Moderate

Blick auf die Düsseldorfer Skyline bei Sonnenuntergang, mit dem Rheinturm und modernen Gebäuden am Flussufer.

After an exciting cruise on the Rhine, you will be docking back in Cologne today. 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. See you soon and ahoy!

Panoramic view of the city of Cologne with the Cologne Cathedral at sunset. In the foreground, the Hohenzollern Bridge, which crosses the Rhine.

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 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 BoardPlus: Comprehensive breakfast, lunch and dinner buffets with live-cooking stations, embarkation snack, as well as daily tea and coffee time
  • Tea, coffee and coffee specialities, water, soft drinks, beer, prosecco, as well as a selection of wines included throughout the day
  • Early Booking Discounts for bookings made until 31 August 2025 for cruises from November 2025 until January 2026.
  • Kids up to 15 years of age cruise for free on deck 1¹
  • One free change of reservation up to 30 days before departure
  • Comprehensive service concept with Guest Relations Management
  • Varied onboard entertainment for cruises of 7 nights or more with local performers
  • Room service in every cabin grade (during bar hours)²
  • A-ROSA App with information about your cruise
  • Special prices for additional services on board, e.g. SPA treatments, workshops³
  • Free e-bikes for independent exploration, subject to availability⁴
  • English-speaking travel and hotel management
  • Transfer between airport or TGV train station and ship when arrival is booked through A-ROSA⁵
  • Toiletries as well as bathrobes on request


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 Drinks only, according to the room service menu. Except A-ROSA ALVA, A-ROSA ALEA and A-ROSA CLEA
³ Except A-ROSA ALEA and A-ROSA CLEA
⁴ A-ROSA ALVA, A-ROSA ALEA & A-ROSA CLEA: E-bike rental not available.
⁵ If a flight or TGV booking is made through A-ROSA, the transfer is included. You will receive the relevant details with your travel information.

PLEASE NOTE: Transfer between railway station and ship on the Danube & Rhine can be booked for an additional fee.

Drinks Package Premium All-Inclusive Plus

Every wish will come true at the bar! Treat yourself to a wide variety of flavours. For just € 19 per night and person at the Premium All-Inclusive fare, you can enjoy 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 € 25 per person in Passau and € 30 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.

A-ROSA Early Booking Price for bookings made until 31 August 2025 for cruises from November 2025 until January 2026.

Choose exactly the cabin you like. If available, we will book your desired cabin with cabin number.

Dates & Prices