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Our Romantic Rhine & Northwest Europe journey reveals the timeless beauty and rich heritage of the region in one unforgettable experience. Cruise through four enchanting countries, the Netherlands, Germany, France, and Switzerland, exploring historic cities, charming towns, and scenic river landscapes. From the canals of Amsterdam to the spires of Cologne, the fairytale charm of Strasbourg and Colmar, and the elegance of Zurich, each stop offers a perfect blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Expert-guided tours, relaxed cruising, and onboard entertainment create the ideal balance of discovery and leisure.
Itinerary at a glance
Start your Romantic Rhine & Northwest Europe journey with an exciting flight to Amsterdam, the iconic “water city” built on reclaimed land. From here, explore charming canals, historic towns, and picturesque landscapes that await you along the route.
Arrive in Amsterdam, the capital city of the Netherlands, renowned for its rich history, artistic heritage, and picturesque canals. Often referred to as the "Venice of the North", the city is famous for its charming canal network, narrow houses with gabled facades, and vibrant culture. Meet the tour guide at the airport and transfer to the hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure.
Begin your day with a city tour of Amsterdam, starting at Dam Square for a pleasant walk and photo stop. Explore the famous Red Light District, noting its strict no-photography policy. Visit a diamond factory to learn about Amsterdam’s renowned cutting techniques, followed by stops at traditional cheese and wooden clog workshops. After free time for lunch, head to Museumplein to tour the Rijksmuseum*, home to masterpieces including Rembrandt’s The Night Watch. Late afternoon, board your Rhine River cruise ship. Settle into your cabin, meet the crew during a welcome cocktail, and enjoy dinner on board.
Included: Breakfast at hotel, Dinner
This morning, join the Amsterdam tour by riverboat*. This tour provides an overview of the many historical treasures and curiosities of the Dutch capital. A fascinating and dynamic city where the old and the modern coexist harmoniously, Amsterdam is rich in history, art, and culture, with surprises around every corner. During the boat ride along the picturesque canals, classified as a UNESCO World Heritage site, you can admire the unique architecture, from the many narrow houses with gables and seventeenth-century mansions to the magnificent bridges spanning the canals, creating an extraordinary urban landscape.
In the afternoon, explore with our Guided tour of Haarlem*, a charming town known as the “Flower City,” just west of Amsterdam. Stroll its cobblestone streets, admire gabled houses, and soak in Dutch tradition and elegance. Later, return to the ship in Amsterdam as it sails toward Nijmegen, arriving during the night.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After breakfast, depart for the Dutch Open-Air Museum of Arnhem*. Explore around 80 authentic buildings, from farmhouses and mills to schools and barns, that showcase traditional Dutch provincial life. Discover timber-framed homes from Limburg, Gelderland farms, and the charming green wooden houses with decorated gables of the Zaan region. Inside, typical furnishings and craft demonstrations bring history to life, offering a fascinating glimpse into the country’s rich heritage. Afternoon sailing to Düsseldorf. Arrival in the evening. Evening entertainment on board. Sailing to Cologne.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We’ll start the day with a Guided tour of Cologne*, a historic European crossroads. Highlights include admiring the exterior of the magnificent Gothic cathedral, home to the tallest twin spires in the world and Germany’s most visited landmark. Wander through the charming Old Town streets, passing by the famous Farina Fragrance Museum, the world’s oldest perfume house, pause to admire its elegant exterior and the heritage it represents. After the tour, enjoy free time to explore the city at your own pace before returning on board to Königswinter. Our ship then sails up the Rhine to Koblenz. Enjoy a stroll to see the famous Deutsches Eck.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Cruise to Mainz in the early morning, sailing through the breathtaking Rhine Valley, one of the most scenic stretches of the river, dotted with vineyards, castles, and charming villages. Upon arrival, we’ll enjoy a Guided walking tour of Mainz*, beginning with a visit to its impressive cathedral, a masterpiece of Romanesque architecture. From there, we’ll wander through the charming streets of the Old Town, arriving at the celebrated Gutenberg Museum*, which celebrates the legacy of Johannes Gutenberg and the invention of the printing press. In the evening, join us for an evening of dancing in the lounge. Our ship will begin to cruise to Strasbourg.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We’ll arrive in Strasbourg in the afternoon.
Join us for a scenic Boat tour of Strasbourg*, followed by a visit to its impressive Cathedral*. (Please note: Interior access to the cathedral may be restricted during religious services; in such cases, commentary will be provided from the outside.) As in many European cities, Strasbourg offers a captivating blend of architectural styles, from charming half-timbered houses to bold contemporary structures, reflecting its rich and diverse history.
After the excursion, we’ll return on board as the ship sets course for Breisach. Tonight is our festive gala evening.
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning, enjoy some free time to explore the city at your own pace. (Important note: When the ship is not moored near Breisach and you would like a transfer to Breisach, the price of the transfer will be €25 per person. This must be reserved and paid on board.）
In the afternoon, join a Guided tour of Colmar* and the renowned Unterlinden Museum*. With its half-timbered houses and flower-decked canals, Colmar enchants visitors, especially the romantic Little Venice quarter. At the Unterlinden, admire a collection spanning 7,000 years, highlighted by the remarkable polyptych by Niclaus of Haguenau and Matthias Grünewald. Return to the ship, sail toward Basel, and enjoy dinner with evening entertainment.
If the minimum participation requirement is not reached, the excursion may be either cancelled or proposed at another rate, depending on the number of participants. (to be paid for on board)
Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Your 7-night cruise comes to an end this morning. After breakfast, disembark and enjoy a comfortable coach transfer to Zurich. Explore the city’s charming Old Town, rich in history and culture. Admire the stunning architecture of the Town Hall (Stadthaus), the iconic Grossmünster and Fraumünster churches, and stroll through cobbled streets filled with stories. Take in beautiful views of the Limmat River from the peaceful hilltop of Lindenhof Park.
Later, return to your hotel for a relaxing dinner with fellow travelers.
Included: Breakfast, Dinner
As your unforgettable journey comes to an end, may your flight home carry you with memories to cherish forever.
Included: Breakfast
★ ★ ★ ★
As one of the top Amsterdam hotels, the Crowne Plaza Hotel Amsterdam-South offers an outstanding experience for both business and leisure travellers. Our hotel also features a wide array of on-site facilities, including several restaurants and a fitness center. Located in the South of Amsterdam, by a canal.
★ ★ ★ ★
The symphony, the most important musical composition, is in perfect harmony with this superb Premium ship to which it gave its name. The MS Symphonie offers cruise itineraries on the Rhine and the Danube, romantic rivers par excellence.
★ ★ ★ ★
Experience four-star accommodation in trendy Zurich West at Crowne Plaza Zurich hotel. Situated near the tram stop and Hardbruecke train station, we are 10-minutes from Zurich Old Town. Fuel your day with a breakfast buffet and explore Zurich’s historic gems like Lindenhof, Grossmuenster Church, and Bahnhofstrasse. Savor tasty meals at our onsite restaurant or relax at our chic bar. Crowne Plaza Zurich offers the conveniences you need and comfort you deserve.
