In supplier order. Some entries may cover multiple days; optional experiences are described by the supplier.
Fly to Dusseldorf and board Amadeus Cara
This morning, fly to the German city of Dusseldorf and transfer to vibrant Cologne, set on the banks of the Rhine, where you'll meet your friendly Newmarket Holidays representative. Depending on your arrival time, you may have some free time to explore the city centre, with its magnificent Gothic architecture, before transferring to the ship. Backed by the UNESCO-listed Cologne Cathedral and arched Hohenzollern Bridge, you’ll be invited onboard Amadeus Cara and will be served a special welcome dinner.
Later this afternoon, you’ll sail south along the winding Rhine River to Bonn, the birthplace of Ludwig van Beethoven, where you’ll dock overnight.
Visit to Bonn and cruise to Nijmegen
Today, after breakfast onboard, explore charming Bonn, the impressive former capital of West Germany, under your own steam or as part of an optional guided tour. As one of Germany’s oldest and most populous cities, Bonn promises no shortage of ways to spend your day.
Wander around the galleries and landmarks of the Südstadt’s famous Museum Mile and explore the gardens and grand architecture of Drachenburg Castle and the Poppelsdorf Palace. One of the undeniable highlights of your time ashore awaits at Beethoven-Haus Bonn. Based in the original childhood home of the great composer, this museum showcases authentic manuscripts, instruments and memorabilia from the life of Ludwig van Beethoven.
Later this afternoon, return to Amadeus Cara as she continues her journey up the Rhine towards the Dutch border.
Stops in Nijmegen and Arnhem
This morning, wake up in the Netherlands with a stop in the country’s oldest city, Nijmegen, where you can discover its Roman heritage sites, historic landmarks and al fresco cafés. Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before heading out to explore.
If you’d like to tick off a few sights during your time in the city, head to the spectacular St. Stephen’s Church, a 12th-century building which was restored after being damaged in the World War II, or visit the Renaissance-era old town hall. You can also learn about the city’s roman origins with a visit to Valkhof Park and Museum. An optional guided walking, complete with a Dutch beer-tasting experience, will also be available this morning.
Return to Amadeus Cara for the onward journey to Arnhem. Here, you’ll be free to take in the sights under your own steam, or perhaps join an optional tour of the Netherlands Open Air Museum. Spread across 100 acres of land, the museum’s charming collection of antique houses, factories and farmland, offers guests a taste of traditional life in the rural Arnhem.
This evening, reboard Amadeus Cara as she sails overnight to Rotterdam.
Stops in Rotterdam and Dordrecht
Have breakfast on the ship this morning before heading out to explore the bustling streets and pretty street markets of Rotterdam, the ‘Gateway to Europe’, under your own steam. Spend some time wandering around the city’s iconic ‘cube houses’ and step inside to admire the unique design of their innovative interior spaces. You can also witness the harbours of the city’s Delfshaven area and take in the historic Pilgrim Fathers’ Church, which was once a popular place of worship for pilgrim settlers travelling to North America.
Those who’d prefer a more structured day’s exploration can join an optional guided tour of The Hague, the Netherlands’ political epicentre. After reconvening on the ship later this afternoon, head for your second Dutch city of the day, stopping in Dordrecht.
This quintessentially Dutch city located on the outskirts of the Noordwaard Polder, promises picturesque sightseeing opportunities at every turn. Stroll through the city’s waterside plazas for a memorable introduction to this historic commercial hub.
This evening, set sail towards the historical and diverse city of Amsterdam.
Day at leisure in Amsterdam
Round out your time in the Netherlands with a full day taking in the winding canals and memorable sights of the Dutch capital. Once you’ve eaten breakfast, you’ll be free to spend the day as you see fit, perhaps with a stop at Amsterdam’s world-renowned museums. Witness 800-years of Dutch history at the Rijksmuseum, home to a vast collection of original artwork from the likes Rembrandt, Vermeer and Van Gogh, or pay a poignant visit to the Anne Frank House. Foodies won’t want to miss today’s optional gourmet walking tour, which takes in some of the city’s most intriguing hidden gems and promises an authentic taste of Amsterdam’s culinary scene.
Your visit will also coincide with Amsterdam’s glittering Light Festival, and you’ll have the chance to view its intricate displays on an optional evening canal cruise. Step aboard your specialist cruiser, which features floor-to-ceiling windows and a glass roof to provide unobstructed views of the floating installations, before setting off along the city’s winding waterways. Along the way, you’ll witness 20 fascinating works of art lining the canal in the company of a knowledgeable local guide, who’ll explain the history, traditions and meaning behind this extraordinary spectacle.
After a busy day’s exploration, head back to Amadeus Cara for a well-deserved rest.
Day at leisure in Amsterdam with included André Rieu concert
It’s the final day of your Rhine river cruise and, having taken breakfast onboard the ship, you’ll have the morning and early afternoon free to shop and sightsee in Amsterdam. Those with a taste for Dutch beer can enjoy an interactive tour at the Heineken Experience, culminating in a tasting session of craft pilsners. If you’d prefer a more culture-focused day, the Van Gogh Museum chronicles the life and work of one of the world’s most acclaimed artists. Alternatively, you can simply watch the world go by from one of the city’s delightful canal-side cafés.
In the afternoon, head back to the ship for a quick freshen-up ahead of the highlight of your tour this evening, seeing André Rieu and his acclaimed Johann Strauss Orchestra live in concert. Travel by coach to Amsterdam’s Ziggo Dome Arena and settle into your seat ahead of a show like no other with the veteran musician. Sway to the beat, dance in aisles and sing-along to the ‘Waltz King’s’ lively repertoire of music – how you mark the occasion is entirely up to you!
After a memorable evening’s concert, head back to the ship for the final night of your cruise.
Return to the UK
Enjoy your breakfast and disembark the ship before being transferred to the airport for your return flight.