Cruising the Rhine - from Cologne to Amsterdam

Ferry to Calais and onwards to our hotel in Belgium, where we stay overnight on a half-board basis.

We continue our journey to Cologne and stop in the city, with plenty of time to explore the city and lunch at your leisure. We then head for the boat dock and board the A-ROSA CLEA for the start of our seven-day cruise.

In the late morning, we step ashore to explore Amsterdam, the city of canals, bicycles and cafés. There are plenty of atmospheric lanes and quarters to uncover or famous museums to visit, including the Anne Frank Museum, a thoughtful exhibition of the war-diarist’s life. Later, we head back to the ship and enjoy our evening meal on board.

We dock at Huizen for the day. Enjoy a lazy morning on board, or hop off to discover the old town, known for its harbour, traditional Dutch architecture and serene waterfront. Take a stroll through the picturesque streets, visit local shops, or enjoy a coffee at one of the cosy cafes. After lunch, we join the coach and set off for an afternoon in Utrecht, a city with an enchanting blend of medieval charm and modern vibrancy. Explore the iconic Dom Tower, the tallest church tower in the Netherlands, or wander along the unique canal system lined with wharf cellars converted into quaint shops. Take a leisurely walk through the Botanic Gardens or indulge in local delicacies at the markets.

The A-ROSA ALEA sets sail early in the morning towards Markermeer and Ijsselmeer to enjoy a scenic cruise with panoramic views along these large freshwater lakes. Both were formerly part of the Zuiderzee, a saltwater inlet open to the North Sea, which was reclaimed in 1932 and 1976 after the construction of massive dams. Later, we arrive in Enkhuizen, a compact, historic town, full of character.  We have an afternoon at leisure here to explore the town, wander the narrow streets and old harbour, or admire its architectural gems. The centre has unique boutiques and plenty of places to enjoy Dutch seafood.

We enjoy another morning of scenic cruising on the Markermeer & Ijsselmeer, before arriving in Hoorn in the early afternoon. Our excursion to Volendam is a delightful opportunity to explore this charming fishing village, known for its colourful wooden houses and bustling harbour. Enjoy fresh seafood or take a stroll along the picturesque waterfront. The short 30-minute drive makes it convenient to return to Hoorn with ample time to wander through Hoorn's quaint streets, discover its historic landmarks, or relax in one of its inviting cafes.

Our ship departs Hoorn in the late evening to sail overnight.

This morning, we arrive in Nijmegen, the oldest city in the Netherlands and take some free time to explore its charming streets and fascinating Roman heritage before our afternoon excursion to the Palais Het Loo, near Apeldoorn. Built in the late 17^th century for King William III and Queen Mary II, this magnificent former royal palace provides an insight into life within its opulent interiors and expansive gardens. We discover beautifully preserved rooms, the stables, the garden view from the palace roof and learn about the lives of the Dutch royal family, with audio tours.

For guests with mobility difficulties, there is a shuttle bus from the entrance to the palace (€1 per person)

The ship arrives at Duisburg in the mid-afternoon, after we've enjoyed a relaxing morning at leisure on board. We then journey by coach to Düsseldorf, where we experience the vibrant city centre and its famous sites such as the Königsallee shopping street and the picturesque Altstadt, known as the 'longest bar in the world' due to its numerous pubs and breweries.

After breakfast, we disembark the A-ROSA ALEA in Cologne and begin our return journey, stopping en route in Aachen. There's time for lunch at leisure before we continue into Belgium for an overnight stay.

We depart Belgium this morning and travel onwards, stopping in Ypres for lunch at your leisure. Later, we continue to Calais for our return ferry home.