7Nights

Rhine Experience IJsselmeer - BASIC

Auf Entdeckungstour mit A-ROSA in Ijsselmeer
Docks in Enkhuizen

Highlights of the Rhine River Cruise

Towards the IJsselmeer – The largest lake in the Netherlands

From Cologne to Willemstad, Huizen, Enkhuizen, Hoorn, Nijmegen and Wesel to Cologne.

Once a former sea bay, now the largest lake in the Netherlands - welcome to the IJsselmeer. The IJsselmeer is one of the most popular destinations in the Netherlands. Every year thousands of visitors come here to experience its unique natural beauty. Discover the rich flora and fauna and fascinating new places on your cruise. On land, you’ll have the opportunity to explore beautiful cities such as Hoorn or Enkhuizen. Other highlights of this cruise are the historic Hanseatic city of Wesel and Nijmegen, the oldest city in the Netherlands.

Rheinkreuzfahrten ab Köln

Cologne

There are many things to see in Cologne, and they are all overshadowed by the cathedral. At 144.5 metres long and 157.38 metres high, this is the third-highest church building in the world. The view over Cologne, the Rhine and the surrounding areas makes climbing the south tower’s 533 steps well worth the effort. The basilica of Great St Martin Church is another fantastic sight. The brightly coloured houses of Cologne’s fish market seem to glow in front of it. Located away from the hustle and bustle of the city centre, you can soak up the atmosphere of the old town here. During carnival season, locals sing ‘Das Herz der Welt, das schlägt am Rhein’ (‘The heart of the world beats on the Rhine’) – and when you get to know the people of Cologne, you’ll no doubt agree with this sentiment.

Auf Entdeckungstour mit A-ROSA in Ijsselmeer

Ijsselmeer

There’s a lot to discover between the Frisian Wadden Sea and the open North Sea: small harbours, endless white sandy beaches and water as far as the eye can see. The IJsselmeer is the largest lake in the Netherlands. Its shore is a great place for mudflat walking – and with a little luck, you’ll even find oysters washed up at low tide. On land, you can explore towns full of fascinating history, inspiring art and entertaining cultural attractions.

Itinerary

A-Rosa Rhine Experience Ijsselmeer Route 2024 eng desktop
A-ROSA Rhein Erlebnis Ijsselmeer mobil 2024

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.

A-ROSA Sena in Köln

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.

Willemstad von Oben

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

Let us take you from A to B in comfort and discover Huizen without stress. Your private driver will take you to the Oude Hafen harbour, the historic quayside promenade or shopping in the old town. An expert tour guide can also be booked on request.

price:

€ 429 per reservation for max. 2 people

duration:

approx. 2 h

transport:

Private car

level:

Moderate

Hint:

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

Huizen von oben

Get to know Huizen with your private tour guide, a city full of contrasts and cultural diversity. Organise this excursion according to your own ideas and wishes. Take a walk along the picturesque Oude Hafen harbour, past the historic quayside promenade or through the alleyways of the old town. Your tour guide will tell you exciting anecdotes about this city's unique blend of tradition and modernity.

price:

€ 459 per reservation for max. 4 people

duration:

approx. 2 h

transport:

walking

level:

Moderate

Hint:

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

Huizen von oben

Would you like to explore Huizen individually and get from A to B in comfort? Then book your private minivan for up to 4 people. An expert tour guide can also be booked on request. Whether alone, as a couple or with new friends, explore the corners of Huizen that you would like to see.

price:

€ 499 per reservation for max. 4 people

duration:

approx. 2 h

transport:

Minivan and walking

level:

Moderate

Hint:

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

Huizen von oben

Zaanse Schans is an open-air museum protected as a historic monument, where you can stroll through Dutch everyday life in the 17th and 18th centuries. Whether on a guided tour or on your own, you will discover authentic houses, a historic shipyard, a tin factory, a cheese and dairy farm, an age-old grocery shop and, most importantly, windmills. The tour then continues across the polder to a cheese dairy and to Edam. At the cheese dairy, you will learn all about how the cheese is made and, of course, you can also try a piece or two. Edam's cheese is world-famous, but the small village also has much more to offer. On a short walk, you can explore the village, which is criss-crossed by small canals, and visit the cheese market, among other things. However, very little cheese is sold here today. Nevertheless, the tradition is regularly revived when the cheese is presented to the traders by the traditional cheese carriers, just like in the old days.

price:

€ 79 per person

duration:

approx. 5 h

transport:

Bus and walking

level:

Moderate

Huizen

Dep 07:00 am

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.

Enkhuizen

Arr 04:00 pm

Enjoy a beautiful day in Enkhuizen, often affectionately referred to as a large open-air museum. Many of the city's monuments are within walking distance. In the historic city centre you will find many small shops that invite you to go shopping. Experience Dutch hospitality in a setting steeped in history.

Docks in Enkhuizen

Enkhuizen

Dep 07:00 am

Enjoy a beautiful day in Enkhuizen, often affectionately referred to as a large open-air museum. Many of the city's monuments are within walking distance. In the historic city centre you will find many small shops that invite you to go shopping. Experience Dutch hospitality in a setting steeped in history.

Docks in Enkhuizen

Hoorn

Arr 03:00 pm Dep 10:00 pm

The delightful little town of Hoorn lies on the Ijsselmeer, towards the northern Rhine. Back in the 16th century, Hoorn was one of the Netherlands’ most important ports. Today, many of its buildings still bear witness to this heyday. A visit to Hoorn during your Rhine cruise is an activity not be missed.

Docks in Hoorn

The Romans astutely identified the ideal location along the Rhine River nearly 2,000 years ago, laying the foundation for the oldest city in the Netherlands. Today, this Hanseatic city captivates visitors with its rich historical sites and the vibrant energy brought by its thriving student population. Nijmegen's liveliness extends to its city beaches, where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of its unique surroundings.

Kirche in Nijmegen

Trips

Discover the most beautiful corners of Nijmegen with your private English-speaking tour guide. Walk through the oldest city of the country and get to know its history, which already goes back to the Romans. Visit the central and worth seeing old town and explore the Grote Markt as well as the St. Stevenskerk, the Belvedère or the Latijnse School.

price:

€ 329 per reservation for max. 4 people

duration:

approx. 2 h

transport:

german tour guide only

level:

Moderate

Hint:

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

Kirche in Nijmegen

Experience the oldest city in the Netherlands in the comfort of your own private people carrier. To the Grote Markt, past the Stevenskerk or to the Belveder, a watchtower built in the mid-15th century. You decide the programme and we will implement it for you. If you wish, you can book an English-speaking guide to introduce you to the history and life of Nijmegen.

price:

€ 559 per reservation for max. 4 people

duration:

approx. 2 h

transport:

Private Minivan

level:

Easy

Hint:

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

Kirche in Nijmegen

Discover Nijmegen individually as a couple. Whether to the Grote Markt in the old town or to the oldest shopping street in Holland. Your driver will take you comfortably from A to B.

price:

€ 529 per reservation for max. 2 people

duration:

approx. 2 h

transport:

Private car

level:

Easy

Hint:

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

Kirche in Nijmegen

Welcome to Nijmegen, a lively Hanseatic city that awaits you not only with history and culture, but also with delicious beer! Immerse yourself in the rich history of Nijmegen, the oldest city in the Netherlands. Stroll through the old streets, discover the historic buildings and learn more about the fascinating past of this Hanseatic city. Afterward, embark on a culinary journey through the world of beer. The brewery visit takes you behind the scenes of a brewery, and you experience first-hand how the delicious brewing specialities of Nijmegen are created.

price:

€ 39

duration:

approx. 3 h

transport:

walking

level:

Demanding

Kirche in Nijmegen

Pancakes are another typical Dutch delicacy, along with chips and cheese. In Nijmegen we take you on the Pannenkoekenboat, on the Waal. While the nature area of the Ooijpolder, the city and the bridges of Nijmegen pass by, you can feast on the indulgent pancakes. From baked bacon, cheese, apple, icing sugar or sirop, everything is included! Don't worry if you can't make a decision when choosing, in the next round you can just choose another pancake and enjoy it.

price:

€ 49 per person

duration:

approx. 1.5 h

transport:

By boat and walking

level:

Easy

Hint:

Takes place only on the following cruises 17.07., 24.07., 31.07., 14.08., 21.08.

Sightseeing in einer Donaumetropole

Discover the former Hanseatic city of Nijmegen by bike. Especially the old town is worth a visit. You can enjoy a great view over the 'Waal' from some places. Along the shore you can also enjoy a piece of nature before you cycle back to the ship.

price:

€ 39 per person

duration:

approx. 2.5 h

transport:

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

level:

Sportlich

Hint:

Distance: approx. 20km

Donau Ausflug mit dem Fahrrad

The Hanseatic city on the Lower Rhine offers numerous recreational and leisure opportunities. The modern pedestrian zone is a particular highlight. It invites you to take a relaxed stroll. The city's urban structures are embedded in a charming natural landscape.

Niederrheinbruecke Wesel mit A-ROSA

Trips

Discover the charm of Wesel on the Rhine. After a short coach ride, the city walk starts by exploring the historical treasures and charming places along the picturesque banks of the Rhine. Passing by the majestic Willibrordi Cathedral, a masterpiece of Gothic architecture, and reaching the historical town hall facade on the Grand Market. Learn fascinating anecdotes about the life and history of Wesel.

price:

€ 39 per person

duration:

approx. 2 h

transport:

Bus and walking

level:

Moderate

Historisches Rathaus in Wesel mit A-rosa

Your exciting Rhine cruise ends in Cologne, but your wonderful memories will last forever. Before you start your journey home, use the day to take a further look around North Rhine-Westphalia or explore the city. The magnificent cathedral of Cologne is an absolute must-see. See you soon and Ahoy!

A-ROSA Sena in Köln

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
  • Special Welcome & Farewell evenings
  • Culinary treats and regional delicacies
  • Culinary dinner experience as part of the included excursion (cruises of 7-nights+)
  • Kids Club available on family cruises and all year round on the A-ROSA SENA
  • Comprehensive service concept with guest relations management
  • Destination Scouts will help you make the most of every city experience with insider tips and recommendations
  • Varied onboard entertainment programme
  • Water dispensers (Danube, France, A-ROSA SENA)
  • A-ROSA App with information about your cruise
  • Reserve excursions online in advance
  • Book additional e-bike packages (terranova)

Dates & Prices

Arrival & hotel

BY TRAIN TO COLOGNE - RAIL & CRUISE

Train operated by Deutsche Bahn from all German train stations to Cologne.

Train from € 179 per person (without BahnCard 2nd Class)

ARRIVE ON YOUR OWN - AND PARK SAFELY!

If you plan your arrival individually, we offer you a parking space in a guarded car park for the length of your cruise.

Price from € 81 per car (fenced parking lot)
Price from € 99 per car (roofed parking space)

OUTBOUND & RETURN FLIGHT TO/FROM COLOGNE, E.G. WITH LUFTHANSA, AIR FRANCE, SWISS

From Munich, Berlin, Vienna or Zurich incl. transfer Airport – Ship – Airport (incl. taxes).

Flights from € 309 per person

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

Hotel Rhein

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

Excelsior Hotel Ernst Grand Deluxe

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

 

Steigenberger Köln

Ships on this cruise

A-ROSA AQUA

A-ROSA Schiff Rhein

A-ROSA BRAVA

A-ROSA Schiff Rhein