4Nights

Rhine Mini Cruise Netherlands 2026 - Basic

Panoramic view of Rotterdam with modern skyscrapers under a clear sky, a park in the foreground and the river with a ship.
The A-ROSA AQUA is docked at a pier in the early morning at sunrise with calm water. In the foreground, swans are swimming near the shore.

Highlights of the Rhine Cruise

Crazy, diverse and entirely endearing.

From Cologne to Rotterdam, Huizen and Emmerich to Cologne.

When arriving in Amsterdam by ship, you immediately feel at home in this city on the water with its rings of canals lined by old merchants’ houses. And renting a “fiets” (bicycle) to dash from the old Dutch Masters to the Waterlooplein flea market is an ideal way to soak up the atmosphere. In Rotterdam, Amsterdam’s modern sister, you begin to doubt your senses when you see cube houses tipped over onto one corner, or when you look up to see huge raspberries painted on the ceiling. But looking out at the third-biggest port in the world brings you right back down to earth. In the small but beautiful Nijmegen you’ll find wonderful parks, a lovingly curated bicycle museum and a museum that you visit in complete darkness: the muZIEum offers the senses a different kind of experience.

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

Amsterdam

Few European cities are as diverse as Amsterdam, with its multicultural charm, historic canal district and the highest concentration of museums in the world. Don’t miss the Rijksmuseum, which was restored to its former glory several years ago following a decade-long renovation project. Follow the locals’ example and explore by bike, or take a trip along the canals and discover Amsterdam from the water. Children of all ages will enjoy the NEMO Science Museum, where they can create bubbles big enough to stand in, make liquorice and learn why water is see-through.

A large mural in Amsterdam depicts the portrait of an older woman with glasses and gray hair, surrounded by colorful graffiti art on an urban concrete surface.

NDSM Shipyard Amsterdam

You’ve likely never heard of Amsterdam’s NDSM Wharf, but it’s a wonderful place – especially for art lovers. Formerly a shipyard where vessels of all sizes were built and launched, the site is now a hub for young artists and visionaries. Disused trams provide living space for creatives, and there’s even an old crane that has been converted into a hotel. The local residents have used graffiti and street art to liven up what used to be a rather bleak spot, making it a paradise for budding photographers. It doesn’t cost anything to visit, and you can take the free ferry there from opposite Amsterdam’s Central Station.

Blick aus einem kleinen Hafen in Rotterdam bei Nacht. Im Vordergrund ankern historische Boote, im Hintergrund beleuchtete Gebäude

Rotterdam

Netherland`s second largest city. The home of the continent’s biggest sea port is a thriving metropolis that doesn’t scrimp on modern buildings or international flair. Over the past 20 years, a number of impressive new skyscrapers have sprung up – and there’s no sign of this trend stopping yet.

Itinerary

Route map Rhine Mini cruise Netherlands with the ports Cologne, Rotterdam, Amsterdam, and Emmerich.
Route map Rhine Mini cruise Netherlands with the ports Cologne, Rotterdam, Amsterdam, and Emmerich.

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.

Rotterdam is the second-largest city in the Netherlands, after Amsterdam. Known as ‘Manhattan on the Maas’, it has a more urban, international atmosphere than anywhere else in the whole country. In recent years, Rotterdam has become a centre for architecture – its large architect-designed houses testament to the city’s modernity. With a little luck, you’ll see other cruise ships during your day in Rotterdam, since Europe’s largest maritime port is a major transport hub.

Cyclist on the Erasmus Bridge in Rotterdam with a view of modern high-rise buildings on the riverbank under a cloudy sky

Trips

Rotterdam shows off one impressive sight after another, from its beautiful skyline to the historic harbour, as well as the Wilhelmina Pier with the Hotel New York and the colourful market hall building. There is a lot to see in Rotterdam, and your private English-speaking tour guide will be happy to give you an individual tour of this multifaceted city with the highlights you want to see.

price:

€ 399.00 per Reservation for max. 4 people

duration:

approx. 2.5 Hours

transport:

german tour guide only

level:

Moderate

Hint:

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

Panoramic view of Rotterdam with modern skyscrapers under a clear sky, a park in the foreground and the river with a ship.

Rotterdam has a lot to offer, and you can’t reach all of its highlights on foot. Why not go and see exactly what you’re interested in, whether it’s the Euromast tower, the MS Rotterdam, Wilhelmina Pier, the Maritime Museum Harbour – or something else. Simply book your private people carrier to ensure that you can get around the city easily and comfortably. You can also book an expert tour guide at the same time if you wish.

price:

€ 699.00 per Reservation for max. 4 people

duration:

approx. 2.5 Hours

transport:

Private Minivan

level:

Easy

Hint:

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

Skyline of Rotterdam on the Maas at dusk, with modern high-rises on the waterfront. The lights of the buildings are reflected in the river.

Discover this impressive metropolis easily and comfortably with your partner or travel companion – and explore several different parts of town in one day. There’s so much to see in Rotterdam. You can also book an expert tour guide at the same time if you wish.

price:

€ 659.00 per Reservation for max. 2 people

duration:

approx. 2.5 Hours

transport:

Private car

level:

Easy

Hint:

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

A couple leans against the railing of a river cruise ship, looking at the Rhine and the skyline of Rotterdam.

Join us on a tour of Rotterdam past the city's landmarks, such as the Kubus Apartments or the Wittehuis, to the unique Market Hall. With its remarkable building, it attracts all eyes. It combines living space, grocery shops and various market stalls with delicious delicacies. Stroll through the market hall and decide which stall you would like to stop at to taste the different delicacies. Whether cheese or sausage, typical Dutch specialities or delicious donuts, there is a taste for everyone!

price:

€ 799.00 per Reservation for max. 6 people

duration:

approx. 2.5 Hours

transport:

walking

level:

Moderate

Hint:

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

Interior view of the market hall in Rotterdam with colorful wall tiles, numerous stalls, and a view of modern buildings through the large window.

Thanks to Europe's largest seaport, Rotterdam is not only a hub for important transport routes. The city is also one of the cultural centres of the Netherlands - with a university, universities of applied sciences, music academy and art academy. The best way to discover this diversity is on a cycle tour. You cycle past the old clinker brick houses of the suburbs and charming Wilhelminian style houses, to the world-famous cube houses and through the park ‘De Kralingse Bos’ with its popular lake. The modern architecture of the new city is also impressive. The programme includes the gigantic Erasmus Bridge, the Kunsthalle, the tunnel under the Maas and the Schouwburgplein.

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

price:

€ 49.00 per person

duration:

approx. 3 Hours

transport:

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

level:

Sportlich

route length:

26

Hint:

Distance: approx. 26km

Cyclist on the Erasmus Bridge in Rotterdam with a view of modern high-rise buildings on the riverbank under a cloudy sky

While it’s true that Rotterdam can look back on a long history, the city gives an outward impression of being refreshingly modern. Rotterdam is the Netherlands’ main centre of architecture – over the last 20 years an impressive collection of skyscrapers has transformed its skyline. The 46-metre-high Witte Huis was the first skyscraper in Europe, and there’s no denying that the city’s famous Cube Houses are unique too. Of course, during your visit you’ll also see the extraordinary market hall building, which is shaped like a giant aircraft hangar. The interior of the market hall boasts an 11,000-square-metre artwork made up of panels decorated with images of fruit and vegetables. Another thing that makes the building unique is that, as well as housing a market, shops, eateries and a car park, it also has residential units.

price:

€ 29.00 per person

duration:

approx. 2.5 Hours

transport:

walking

level:

Moderate

Panoramic view of Rotterdam with modern skyscrapers under a clear sky, a park in the foreground and the river with a ship.

Welcome to the Dutch city of Huizen! The city is located on the banks of the Gooimeer, part of the IJsselmeer, and is known for its picturesque location, historic architecture and maritime atmosphere. Huizen has a rich history as a fishing village, but over the years the economy has diversified to include trade, tourism and services. Visitors can explore the charming old town with its traditional houses, cozy cafés, stores and marina. The surrounding nature offers numerous opportunities for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling and water sports, making Huizen a popular destination for locals and tourists alike.

Trips

Explore the charming town of Huizen on a guided walking tour and immerse yourself in the rich history of this former fishing village. Your tour guide will lead you through the picturesque streets and tell you fascinating stories about the past and present of the region. Discover historic buildings, the old harbour district and enjoy the view of the coast.

price:

€ 29.00 per person

duration:

approx. 2 Hours

transport:

walking

level:

Moderate

Hint:

This excursion will only take place if the minimum number of participants is reached before departure.

Häuser mit roten Ziegeldächern und grünen Bäumen am Ufer eines ruhigen Flusses unter blauem Himmel.

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.

Only takes place on the following dates:
Rhine Mini Cruise Netherlands 17.03. | 20.03. | 21.03.2026
Rhine Experience Ijsselmeer 10.04. | 18.04. | 24.04. | 08.05.2026

price:

€ 89.00 per person

duration:

approx. 5.5 Hours

transport:

Bus and walking

level:

Moderate

Close-up of tulip bulbs in a wooden box. The box is labelled Tulips from Amsterdam in capital letters.

Immerse yourself in the picturesque world of Zaanse Schans, a charming village in the Netherlands that seems like a living museum. Travelling back in time, you will learn about the rich heritage of Dutch craftsmanship and culture. Learn about the art of clog making and marvel at the historic windmills in this listed open-air museum.

This excursion is only available on the following dates: 
Rhine Mini Cruise Netherlands 5 March | 9 March | 13 March | 30 October | 4 November | 8 November | 12 November | 16 November | 20 November 2026
Rhine Experience IJsselmeer 09 May | 22 May | 30 May | 05 June | 19 June | 27 June | 03 July | 12 July | 17 July | 25 July | 31 July | 9 August | 14 August | 22 August | 28 August | 6 September | 11 September | 19 September | 25 September | 9 October 2026

price:

€ 69.00 per person

duration:

approx. 3.5 Hours

transport:

Bus and walking

level:

Moderate

Sonnenuntergang über der Zaanse Schans mit traditionellen holländischen Windmühlen und grünen Feldern im Vordergrund

Get straight off the ship and explore the city at your own pace on an e-bike! With electric assistance, you can easily reach the most beautiful sights. Enjoy the freedom to decide where to stop and what to discover—at your own pace. A relaxed excursion full of impressions and exercise!

The excursion cannot be booked on cruises with the A-ROSA ALEA.

price:

€ 29.00 per person

duration:

approx. 3 Hours

transport:

Bicycle

level:

Sportlich

A couple is riding bicycles from A-ROSA along a field of vines in the sunshine, holding hands.

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!

Riverside promenade in Emmerich with a view of the river, a church, and a suspension bridge under a blue sky with clouds.

Trips

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:

€ 29.00 per person

duration:

approx. 1.5 Hours

transport:

walking

level:

Moderate

Riverside promenade in Emmerich with a view of the river, a church, and a suspension bridge under a blue sky with clouds.

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.

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

price:

€ 49.00 per person

duration:

approx. 3 Hours

transport:

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

level:

Sportlich

route length:

36

Hint:

Distance: approx. 36km

Church with a pointed tower on the bank of a river in Emmerich, in front the A-ROSA BRAVA on the water under a blue sky with clouds.

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 BASIC

The tariff for flexible (or spontaneous) relaxation. For certain travel dates we offer the "A-ROSA Basic" tariff with a limited contingent at short notice.

The rate A-ROSA Basic incl. Full Board includes the following services:

  • Indulge all day, every day: Comprehensive breakfast, lunch and dinner buffets, embarkation refreshment and daily teatime snack (A‑ROSA ALVA, A‑ROSA ALEA and A‑ROSA CLEA: the main courses are served at the table)
  • Special Welcome & Farewell evenings
  • Culinary treats and regional delicacies
  • Kids Club available on family cruises and all year round on the A-ROSA SENA
  • Comprehensive service concept with guest relations management
  • Varied onboard entertainment programme
  • Water dispensers (Except on board A-ROSA ALEA & A-ROSA CLEA)
  • A-ROSA App with information about your cruise
  • Free use of the onboard facilities such as sauna and fitness room

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 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.

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 (available on request at reception).

 

Inside view of the cabins in category S on the A-ROSA AQUA and A-ROSA BRAVA with an extra bed.

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).

 

Inside view of the cabins in Category A on the A-ROSA AQUA and A-ROSA BRAVA.

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).

 

Inside view of the cabins in category C and D on the A-ROSA AQUA and A-ROSA BRAVA with french balcony.

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).

 

A couple is lying on the bed of a cabin in category C with a french balcony, planning their next excursion of their Rhine cruise with a map.

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).

 

Inside view of the cabins in category S on the A-ROSA AQUA and A-ROSA BRAVA with an extra bed.

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).

 

Inside view of the cabins in Category A on the A-ROSA AQUA and A-ROSA BRAVA.

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).

 

Inside view of the cabins in category C and D on the A-ROSA AQUA and A-ROSA BRAVA with french balcony.

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).

 

A couple is lying on the bed of a cabin in category C with a french balcony, planning their next excursion of their Rhine cruise with a map.

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).

 

Inside view of the cabins in category S on the A-ROSA AQUA and A-ROSA BRAVA with an extra bed.

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).

 

Inside view of the cabins in Category A on the A-ROSA AQUA and A-ROSA BRAVA.

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).

 

Inside view of the cabins in category C and D on the A-ROSA AQUA and A-ROSA BRAVA with french balcony.

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).

 

A couple is lying on the bed of a cabin in category C with a french balcony, planning their next excursion of their Rhine cruise with a map.

Spacious and comfortable outside cabin with a 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).

 

Inside view of the cabins in category C and D on the A-ROSA ALEA with french balcony.

Spacious and comfortable outside cabin with a 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).

 

Inside view of the cabins in category C and D on the A-ROSA ALEA with french balcony.

Spacious and comfortable outside cabin with a 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).

 

Inside view of the cabins in category C and D on the A-ROSA ALEA with french balcony.

Spacious and comfortable outside cabin with a 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).

 

Inside view of the cabins in category C and D on the A-ROSA ALEA with french balcony.