Here we start the contemplative Christmas cruise on the Rhine. But you should also get to know the cathedral city with its many buildings and attractions. The best way is to arrive already relaxed one day before your cruise or simply extend your stay after the cruise.
Itinerary
On Christmas Eve, Christmas-lit houseboats bob along the canals in Amsterdam, the city of 1539 bridges. The creative Dutch outdo each other when it comes to Christmas decorations. The brighter it shines, the better it is. In addition to ice rinks for skating and Dutch-style Christmas markets, many museums are mostly open for those who crave a contrast to angel choirs and tinsel.
Trips
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:
€ 999 per reservation for max. 7 people
duration:
approx. 2.5 h
transport:
By boat and walking
level:
Easy
Hint:
price per boat, max. 7 Guests
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:
€ 349 per reservation for max. 4 people
duration:
approx. 3 h
transport:
german tour guide only
level:
Moderate
Hint:
This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.
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:
€ 499 per reservation for max. 4 people
duration:
approx. 3 h
transport:
Private Minivan
level:
Easy
Hint:
This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.
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:
€ 459 per reservation for max. 2 people
duration:
approx. 3 h
transport:
Private car
level:
Easy
Hint:
This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.
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.
price:
€ 49 per person
duration:
approx. 2 h
transport:
By boat and walking
level:
Easy
Hint:
This excursion is not offered on tours where the excursion 'Historic park Keukenhof' is offered.
On Christmas Day, Christmas-lit houseboats bob along the canals in Amsterdam, the city of 1539 bridges. The creative Dutch outdo each other when it comes to Christmas decorations. The brighter it shines, the better it is. In addition to ice rinks for skating and Dutch-style Christmas markets, many museums are mostly open for those who crave a contrast to angel choirs and tinsel.
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:
€ 349 per reservation for max. 4 people
duration:
approx. 3 h
transport:
german tour guide only
level:
Moderate
Hint:
This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.
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:
€ 499 per reservation for max. 4 people
duration:
approx. 3 h
transport:
Private Minivan
level:
Easy
Hint:
This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.
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:
€ 459 per reservation for max. 2 people
duration:
approx. 3 h
transport:
Private car
level:
Easy
Hint:
This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.
Haarlem was once a very powerful, rich city and is even older than Amsterdam. Haarlem was mentioned in documents as early as the 10th century. Shipbuilding and beer brewing ensured prosperity, and in the Golden Age cloth weaving was added. You will discover the Grote Markt, where Haarlem's long history is as tangible as its liveliness, old rows of houses, the massive Gothic Grote Kerk, the Renaissance town hall and the "hofjes". Afterwards you have time for your own explorations: you could stroll for hours through the little streets... it is not for no reason considered the cosiest shopping place in Holland
price:
€ 59 per person
duration:
approx. 4 h
transport:
Bus and walking
level:
Moderate
You will spend Boxing Day in the second largest city of the Netherlands. The "Manhattan on the Meuse" exudes more urban and international atmosphere than any other place in the Netherlands. In recent years Rotterdam has become the architectural capital. Large architectural buildings are hallmarks of the modern age. With a bit of luck, you will also see other cruise ships on your day in Rotterdam, because the largest seaport in Europe is a huge transportation hub.
Trips
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:
€ 759 per reservation for max. 6 people
duration:
approx. 2.5 h
transport:
walking
level:
Moderate
Hint:
This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.
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 per reservation for max. 4 people
duration:
approx. 2.5 h
transport:
german tour guide only
level:
Moderate
Hint:
This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.
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:
€ 659 per reservation for max. 4 people
duration:
approx. 2.5 h
transport:
Private Minivan
level:
Easy
Hint:
This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.
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:
€ 629 per reservation for max. 2 people
duration:
approx. 2.5 h
transport:
Private car
level:
Easy
Hint:
This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.
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 per person
duration:
approx. 2.5 h
transport:
walking
level:
Moderate
Experiencing everything the Netherlands has to offer in one day? This excursion makes it possible. First you explore the capital of the Netherlands still in its original size during a city walk through Den Haag. Then we will continue to nearby Madurodam park. This is a miniature world that introduces you to the highlights and heritage of the Netherlands in a playful way. Madurodam is suitable for all ages and very family-friendly. Children can discover and also try out a lot here. Immerse yourself in the miniatur world of the Netherlands!
price:
€ 79 per person
duration:
approx. 4.5 h
transport:
Bus and walking
level:
Moderate
Rotterdam
Dep 06:00 amOn your Christmas cruise you will visit the second largest city in the Netherlands. The "Manhattan on the Meuse" exudes more urban and international atmosphere than any other place in the Netherlands. In recent years, Rotterdam has become the architectural capital. Large architectural buildings are hallmarks of the modern age. With a bit of luck, you will also see other cruise ships on your day in Rotterdam, because the largest seaport in Europe is a huge transportation hub.
Dordrecht
Arr 09:00 am Dep 08:00 pmDiscover the oldest city in Holland on your Christmas cruise! 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.
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.
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 per reservation for max. 4 people
duration:
approx. 3.5 h
transport:
german tour guide only
level:
Moderate
Hint:
This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.
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 per reservation for max. 4 people
duration:
approx. 3.5 h
transport:
Private Minivan
level:
Easy
Hint:
This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.
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:
€ 429 per reservation for max. 2 people
duration:
approx. 3.5 h
transport:
Private car
level:
Easy
Hint:
This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.
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:
€ 799 per reservation for max. 4 people
duration:
approx. 4 h
transport:
Minivan and walking
level:
Moderate
Hint:
This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.
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:
€ 759 per reservation for max. 8 people
duration:
approx. 3.5 h
transport:
Transfer and walking
level:
Demanding
Hint:
This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.
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 per person
duration:
approx. 4 h
transport:
Bus and walking
level:
Moderate
Belgium is known for its delicious chocolate. This chocolate museum will take you through the whole process of chocolate making, from the cocoa bean to the finished product. You’ll also learn how filled chocolates are made – and you’ll have the opportunity to try some for yourself along the way. There are lots of exciting things for our younger guests to see and do here as well, and you’ll discover some fascinating facts in each of the 14 rooms.
price:
€ 65 per person
duration:
approx. 3 h
transport:
Bus and walking
level:
Moderate
Hint:
includes transfers and admission only
Enjoy the passing landscape on this day with a hot drink. Tip: You can enjoy some real relaxation in the SPA-ROSA.
Shortly before New Year's Eve, your Christmas cruise on the Rhine ends in Cologne. However, before you start your journey home with a thousand memories of your trip, why not use the day to look around further in North Rhine-Westphalia or explore the cathedral city. Once in "Kölle", you should also have visited the cathedral. A Happy New Year, see you soon and Ahoy!
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 all transfers and 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 Board Plus: breakfast and lunch buffets, in the evening you choose your starters and desserts from the delicious buffet, the main courses are served at the table.
- High-quality drinks included throughout the day: tea, coffee and coffee specialities, soft drinks, beers, sparkling wine and a selection of wines, cocktails and long drinks. Also besides the lunch and dinner hours. Exceptions are specialities subject to surcharges and champagne.
- Super Early Booking Discount for bookings made until 31 October 2024
- A-ROSA travel cancellation insurance (booking until 30 November 2023)
- English-speaking travel and hotel management on our international ships.
- Children up to and including 15 years accompanied by at least one supervising adult receive a 30 % discount.¹
- Change booking one time free of charge up to 30 days prior to departure
- Half-day excursion included (from 7-night cruises)
- Comprehensive service concept with guest relations management
- Free use of the on-board facilities such as sauna and fitness room
- Free WiFi (excluding streaming services)
- A-ROSA App with information about your cruise
- Transfer between airport and ship when booked via A-ROSA²
- 15 % discount on treatments in our SPA-ROSA
- Bathroom amenities and bathrobe in the cabin
- On-board entertainment
- Port charges
- many other services
¹The children’s discount is only valid for the cruise itself. Limited availabilities on all cruises.
² The transfer is included when booking the flight through A-ROSA. You will receive an extra voucher with your travel documents.
Dates & Prices
Spacious and comfortable outside cabin with a 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.
Spacious and comfortable outside cabin with a 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.
Spacious and comfortable outside cabin with a 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.
Generously sizes and comfortable family cabins with three extra beds. 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.
Arrival & hotel
You want a relaxed arrival and departure? Then choose one of these hotels! Your advantage: You arrive already one or two days before disembarkation and can consciously look forward to the journey with A-ROSA. Or you can let your vacation come to an end in a very juicy way before you start your journey home. All hotels are personally and carefully selected by us to round off your vacation.
The Maritim Hotel Cologne is located directly on the Rhine, only a few steps away from the charming old town, the cathedral and the city centre as well as the central station. The hotel impresses with its extraordinary architecture and has 454 rooms and suites, all of which are equipped with a bathroom/toilet, mini fridge (unfilled), safe, radio, TV and a telephone. In the spacious, glass-roofed hotel lobby you will find a variety of boutiques and restaurants.
Prices include the tax for the promotion and advancement of culture. Not valid during certain exhibitions in Cologne.
Included services
Overnight stay incl. breakfast, extended stay possible
Double occupancy
€ 119 pp
Single occupancy
€ 179 pp
Double occupancy
€ 129 pp
Single occupancy
€ 209 pp
Double occupancy
€ 159 pp
Single occupancy
€ 279 pp
Luxury in the middle of the city center is what the Dorint Hotel am Heumarkt Cologne offers you. The panoramic elevator with a view of the cathedral takes you to your chic room, which includes everything you need to work and relax. In addition, an exclusive fitness and wellness area (fee required) with glass-roofed pool and the chic Harry's New-York Bar await you.
Prices include the tax for the promotion and advancement of culture. Not valid during certain exhibitions in Cologne.
Included services
Overnight stay incl. breakfast, extended stay possible
Double occupancy
€ 129 pp
Single occupancy
€ 189 pp
Double occupancy
€ 169 pp
Double occupancy
€ 209 pp
Excelsior Hotel Ernst – Cologne's only member of The Leading Hotels of the World – offers a unique combination of tradition and innovation. The hotel’s prominent location near Cologne Cathedral means that it is easy to get to, while the harmonious colour scheme and classic yet modern furnishings create a timeless atmosphere. All rooms and suites have free Wi-Fi for mobile devices and are equipped with SuitePad, the hotel’s digital concierge service. The Michelin-starred restaurant "taku" welcomes you with deliciously authentic East Asian masterpieces. And in the gourmet restaurant "Hanse Stube" you can experience French cuisine with local influences. Access to the hotel gym, sauna and steam bath, use of your hotel room’s minibar and a shoeshine service are all included in the price. Prices include culture tax. Offer not valid during certain trade fairs in Cologne.
We would be pleased to make you an offer based on daily updated rates.
For further information, please contact service@a-rosa.com
Included services
Overnight stay incl. breakfast, extended stay possible
The listed Steigenberger Hotel is located in the heart of the Rhine metropolis Cologne, just a few minutes away from historic sights. Within a few minutes you can reach Cologne Cathedral as well as the famous Rhine river promenade and other hotspots of the city.
The 305 modern rooms, some of which even have a view over the city Cologne, are more than just a hotel room. The comfortable furnishings of all rooms include air conditioning, satellite TV, desk, free local calls, safe, minibar as well as a Nespresso coffee machine and a kettle for making tea. The bathrooms are equipped with shower or bathtub.
The Bar Bistro 19NullZwo offers the perfect atmosphere with modern colours and shapes for short breaks with delicious coffee specialities, snacks or a treat for body and soul.
We would be pleased to make you an offer based on daily updated rates.
For further information, please contact service@a-rosa.com