Rhine Experience & the Sea

Cologne is a city in western Germany located across the Rhine river. It is the oldest in Germany, dating back 2000 years and is considered the region’s cultural hub. The city is known for its iconic landmark of the twin-spired Cologne Cathedral set against the reconstructed Old Town buildings. When in Old Town, visit the historic Old Town Hall and the Roman Church Great St Martin, or take time out and sit at one of the traditional breweries and enjoy the scenery around you. Historical sites such as the Roman Dionysus mosaic and the medieval Overstolzenhaus are worth a visit too. Another iconic sight in Cologne is at Hohenzollern Bridge. Here, local and tourist couples affix padlocks to the railings of the bridge and swear their loyalty to each other, they then throw the key into the Rhein to ensure everlasting love. Cologne is home to over 30 stages providing cabaret, free ensembles, theatre and dance and also celebrates its openly gay culture.

We will set off on our exciting Rhine cruise from here, heading for the northern or the southern Rhine. But you shouldn’t miss out on the opportunity to explore this cathedral city, with its wealth of monuments and attractions. The best way is to arrive the day before your cruise departs, so that you can relax – or simply extend your stay in Cologne after the cruise has ended.

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.

Explore Antwerp, Belgium's second city. Known for its diamond cutting industry, fashion and the many great artists that lived in its vicinity, Antwerp is a city focused on art and culture.

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.

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.

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 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!

Cologne is a city in western Germany located across the Rhine river. It is the oldest in Germany, dating back 2000 years and is considered the region’s cultural hub. The city is known for its iconic landmark of the twin-spired Cologne Cathedral set against the reconstructed Old Town buildings. When in Old Town, visit the historic Old Town Hall and the Roman Church Great St Martin, or take time out and sit at one of the traditional breweries and enjoy the scenery around you. Historical sites such as the Roman Dionysus mosaic and the medieval Overstolzenhaus are worth a visit too. Another iconic sight in Cologne is at Hohenzollern Bridge. Here, local and tourist couples affix padlocks to the railings of the bridge and swear their loyalty to each other, they then throw the key into the Rhein to ensure everlasting love. Cologne is home to over 30 stages providing cabaret, free ensembles, theatre and dance and also celebrates its openly gay culture.

We will set off on our exciting Rhine cruise from here, heading for the northern or the southern Rhine. But you shouldn’t miss out on the opportunity to explore this cathedral city, with its wealth of monuments and attractions. The best way is to arrive the day before your cruise departs, so that you can relax – or simply extend your stay in Cologne after the cruise has ended.