Romantic Rhine (Southbound) 2026 - 8 Day River Cruise Amsterdam to Basel

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Romantic Rhine (Southbound) 2026

8 Day River Cruise Amsterdam to Basel



Tour Description:

One of Europe’s most legendary rivers takes you across Germany and touches in Holland, France, and Switzerland! This magnificent Rhine River cruise begins in the ever popular, modern city of Amsterdam, Holland. Cruise on its famous canals along the elegant grachten--the best way to see the treasures of this 700-year-old city dating back to the “Golden Age.” Visit Cologne, Germany—a 2,000-year-old city known for its Gothic-style architecture—and see its famous twin-spired cathedral and Old Town with many shops, cafés, and taverns.

Sail through the dramatic Rhine Gorge—offering the most beautiful view of the Rhine River where ancient castles stand on cliffs 400 feet above the water. Cruise to the charming wine town of Rüdesheim and visit the unique Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum. Continue your Rhine River cruise to Mainz for a guided walk and visit to the captivating Gutenberg Museum or take an excursion to Heidelberg to visit the ruins of its red-walled castle. In Strasbourg, France, marvel at the red-sandstone Gothic-style cathedral with ancient murals and fascinating astronomical clock. Also, stroll through the lovely La Petite France district with its quaint shops, delightful bistros, and peaceful waterfront promenade. Stop in Breisach, Germany, the gateway to Germany’s Black Forest. Here, find unrivaled natural beauty in the area best known for Black Forest ham, cherry cake, and the cuckoo clock.

Map for Romantic Rhine (Southbound) 2026 - 8 Day River Cruise Amsterdam to Basel
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Dates & Pricing

Friday 27 Mar 26 — Saturday 04 Apr 26Starting at $2,499Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Saturday 28 Mar 26 — Sunday 05 Apr 26Starting at $2,499Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Monday 30 Mar 26 — Tuesday 07 Apr 26Starting at $2,499Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Saturday 11 Apr 26 — Sunday 19 Apr 26Starting at $2,949Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Monday 13 Apr 26 — Tuesday 21 Apr 26Starting at $3,199Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Friday 24 Apr 26 — Saturday 02 May 26Starting at $3,399Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Monday 27 Apr 26 — Tuesday 05 May 26Starting at $3,399Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Monday 04 May 26 — Tuesday 12 May 26Starting at $3,499Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Friday 08 May 26 — Saturday 16 May 26Starting at $3,499Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Monday 11 May 26 — Tuesday 19 May 26Starting at $3,599Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Monday 18 May 26 — Tuesday 26 May 26Starting at $3,599Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Friday 22 May 26 — Saturday 30 May 26Starting at $3,599Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Monday 25 May 26 — Tuesday 02 Jun 26Starting at $3,349Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Monday 01 Jun 26 — Tuesday 09 Jun 26Starting at $3,349Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Monday 08 Jun 26 — Tuesday 16 Jun 26Starting at $3,349Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Monday 15 Jun 26 — Tuesday 23 Jun 26Starting at $3,349Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Friday 19 Jun 26 — Saturday 27 Jun 26Starting at $3,099Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Monday 22 Jun 26 — Tuesday 30 Jun 26Starting at $3,099Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Monday 29 Jun 26 — Tuesday 07 Jul 26Starting at $3,099Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Friday 03 Jul 26 — Saturday 11 Jul 26Starting at $2,849Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Monday 13 Jul 26 — Tuesday 21 Jul 26Starting at $2,849Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Friday 17 Jul 26 — Saturday 25 Jul 26Starting at $3,099Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Monday 27 Jul 26 — Tuesday 04 Aug 26Starting at $2,599Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Friday 31 Jul 26 — Saturday 08 Aug 26Starting at $2,599Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Monday 03 Aug 26 — Tuesday 11 Aug 26Starting at $2,599Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Friday 07 Aug 26 — Saturday 15 Aug 26Starting at $2,849Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Monday 10 Aug 26 — Tuesday 18 Aug 26Starting at $2,849Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Friday 14 Aug 26 — Saturday 22 Aug 26Starting at $3,049Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Friday 21 Aug 26 — Saturday 29 Aug 26Starting at $3,299Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Monday 24 Aug 26 — Tuesday 01 Sep 26Starting at $3,399Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Friday 28 Aug 26 — Saturday 05 Sep 26Starting at $3,649Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Monday 31 Aug 26 — Tuesday 08 Sep 26Starting at $3,999Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Monday 07 Sep 26 — Tuesday 15 Sep 26Starting at $3,999Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Monday 14 Sep 26 — Tuesday 22 Sep 26Starting at $3,999Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Monday 21 Sep 26 — Tuesday 29 Sep 26Starting at $3,999Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Friday 25 Sep 26 — Saturday 03 Oct 26Starting at $3,999Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Monday 28 Sep 26 — Tuesday 06 Oct 26Starting at $3,749Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Monday 05 Oct 26 — Tuesday 13 Oct 26Starting at $3,749Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Friday 09 Oct 26 — Saturday 17 Oct 26Starting at $3,649Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Monday 12 Oct 26 — Tuesday 20 Oct 26Starting at $3,649Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Friday 16 Oct 26 — Saturday 24 Oct 26Starting at $3,299Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Monday 19 Oct 26 — Tuesday 27 Oct 26Starting at $3,299Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Friday 23 Oct 26 — Saturday 31 Oct 26Starting at $3,299Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Monday 26 Oct 26 — Tuesday 03 Nov 26Starting at $2,849Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Friday 30 Oct 26 — Saturday 07 Nov 26Starting at $2,849Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Friday 06 Nov 26 — Saturday 14 Nov 26Starting at $2,749Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Monday 09 Nov 26 — Tuesday 17 Nov 26Starting at $2,649Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Monday 16 Nov 26 — Tuesday 24 Nov 26Starting at $2,399Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Monday 23 Nov 26 — Tuesday 01 Dec 26Starting at $3,399Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Monday 30 Nov 26 — Tuesday 08 Dec 26Starting at $3,999Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Monday 07 Dec 26 — Tuesday 15 Dec 26Starting at $3,749Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Monday 14 Dec 26 — Tuesday 22 Dec 26Starting at $3,499Check Mark Icon SPECIALGet a Quote
Check Mark Icon Disclaimer: Prices listed are per person, based on double occupancy, and in USD. All promotions are valid for new bookings only, capacity controlled and valid on select dates and departures. Individual Terms and Conditions will apply to all promotions. Any promotion can be withdrawn at any time without notice. Please speak with your Pavlus Travel Planner for complete vendor terms and conditions, including eligible tour and cruise dates.


Destination & Sightseeing

Day 1 Amsterdam (Embarkation): Onboard welcome reception
Day 2 Amsterdam: Choice of canal cruise or off-the-beaten path walking tour
Day 3 Cologne: Choice of Cologne highlights walking tour, or Jewish Heritage walking tour or bike with your Adventure Host
Day 4 Rhine Gorge-Rüdesheim: Cruise through the scenic Rhine Gorge with breathtaking views of ancient castles, towering cliffs, and the legendary Rock of the Lorelei; visit Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum in Rüdesheim or hike in the vineyards with your Adventure Host
Day 5 Mainz. Excursion to Heidelberg: Choice of guided walk in Mainz with a visit to the Gutenberg Museum, or a guided tour of Heidelberg Castle, see the Great Vat, or walk the Philosophers’ Way with your Adventure Host
Day 6 Kehl. Excursion to Strasbourg: Choice of guided sightseeing, visit the La Petite France district and the Gothic cathedral or bike with your Adventure Host
Day 7 Breisach: Choice of excursion to Black Forest or Freiburg sightseeing
Day 8 Basel (Disembarkation): Your cruise ends this morning
Notes:
  • In the event of technical or water level issues, it may be necessary to operate the itinerary by motorcoach or alter the program, including hotel overnight when necessary.
  • Guided Tours, Optional Excursions, activities, sailing and docking schedules may be contingent on weather conditions or other issues outside of our control and could therefore be subject to change at any time.
  • Please check visa requirements with your local consulate(s); responsibility for obtaining visas rests with the traveler.

ITINERARY

Day 1
AMSTERDAM, HOLLAND (EMBARKATION) Welcome to Holland. Your Suite Ship® is Ready for Boarding. Flights into Amsterdam must arrive by 3:30 pm. Guests must be on board ship by 5 pm. Your day in Amsterdam is free to explore at your leisure. During tulip season, you may take a Guided Optional Excursion to Keukenhof gardens—with more than seven million tulips, daffodils, and hyacinths, as well as other bulbs, planted each year. Outside of tulip season, join a Guided Optional Excursion to Zaanse Schans to see historic windmills and charming Dutch houses. OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN AMSTERDAM AMSTERDAM-CANAL.jpg

Day 2
AMSTERDAM Canals of Colorful Amsterdam Join your Adventure Host for today’s special activities. DISCOVERY Discover the true beauty of Amsterdam with an off-the-beaten-path Guided Walking Tour through its cobblestone streets for a captivating look at this legendary city, OR: CLASSIC Explore the iconic waterways of Amsterdam on a Guided Canal Cruise past stately homes of Amsterdam’s “Golden Age." This afternoon, choose among the Guided Optional Excursions available or take some free time to explore Amsterdam’s colorful streets and canal houses, galleries, and shops. AFTERNOON/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO COLOGNE AMSTERDAM-CANAL-CRUISE.jpg
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Day 3
COLOGNE, GERMANY Prost! Celebrate in the Rhineland ACTIVE Enjoy a bike ride like the locals in Cologne with your Adventure Host, OR: DISCOVERY Choose a Guided Walking Tour of Cologne’s important Jewish heritage sites, OR: CLASSIC Take a Guided City Walk of Cologne—with its soaring twin-steepled gothic cathedral. Spend free time over a glass of Kölsch pale lager—locally brewed for over 100 years! Later, local musicians will join us on board for live entertainment. OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO RÜDESHEIM COLOGNE-BEER.jpg
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Day 4
RHINE GORGE–RÜDESHEIM Eat, Drink, and Be Merry in Wine Country En route to Rüdesheim, sail through the Rhine Gorge (a UNESCO World Heritage site). Take in the breathtaking views of ancient castles perched on cliffs 400 feet above the water and pass the legendary Rock of the Lorelei—where the mythological siren’s songs lured ill-fated sailors. ACTIVE Enjoy a hike with your Avalon Adventure Host through the picturesque vineyards of Rüdesheim, OR: DISCOVERY Take a Guided Tour of the incredible Mechanical Music Museum for a one-of-a-kind instrumental experience; enjoy a tasting of the authentic Rüdesheimer coffee. Enjoy live entertainment on board your ship this evening. OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN RÜDESHEIM RUDESHEIM-COFFEE.jpg
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Day 5
MAINZ. EXCURSION TO HEIDELBERG Printing Halls, Castle Walls, and the World’s Biggest Wine Barrel ACTIVE Join your Avalon Adventure Host for an inspiring walk in Heidelberg, the Philosophers' way, OR: CLASSIC Enjoy a Guided City Walk, including a visit to the Gutenberg Museum to see the captivating history of printing, OR: CLASSIC Enjoy a Guided Tour to Heidelberg Castle to see the ruins of the magnificent renaissance treasure towering above the city, and its famed Great Vat, the “World’s Largest Wine Barrel.” EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO KEHL HEIDELBERG.jpg
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Day 6
KEHL. EXCURSION TO STRASBOURG, FRANCE A Grand Cathedral and La Petite France Ask about today’s energizing or relaxing Adventure Host activities. ACTIVE Discover Strasbourg by bike with your Adventure Host, OR: CLASSIC Join a City Sightseeing Tour, including Strasbourg’s Gothic, stained-glass cathedral with its celebrated ancient murals and astronomical clock, as well as the magical La Petite France District. Choose a Guided Optional Excursion to the historic Maginot Line—the pre-WWII fortifications designed to protect the eastern border of France, or visit Alsace’s wine country today. Alternatively, take some free time in Strasbourg to visit a museum, or stroll across the city center. EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO BREISACH STRASBOURG-PETIT-FRANCE.jpg
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Day 7
BREISACH, GERMANY. EXCURSION TO BLACK FOREST German Winemaking and the Beautiful Black Forest DISCOVERY Join a full-day Guided Tour to the magical Black Forest to experience the Vogtsbauernohf open-air-museum, visit an authentic water mill, and see a traditional butter-making demonstration, OR: CLASSIC Join a Guided Tour to explore Freiburg’s medieval city center, sheltered by the Black Forest amid vineyards and gardens of the Upper Rhine Valley. You may choose to join a Guided Optional Excursion to visit the charming village of Colmar, with half-timbered medieval and early renaissance buildings. EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO BASEL BLACK-FOREST-SCENIC.jpg
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Day 8
BASEL, SWITZERLAND (DISEMBARKATION) Your cruise ends with breakfast this morning. Flights should not leave Zürich airport before 10 am or Basel airport before 8 am. BASEL-SUNRISE.jpg

Accommodations

AmsterdamAmsterdamZurich
Movenpick Amsterdam City
Superior First-Class

Hotel as shown or similar

Piet Heinkade 11 Amsterdam Netherlands

A stylish 408-room hotel in the perfect location, this waterfront property offers Free Wi-Fi internet access throughout. The chic restaurant serves creative international cuisine and there is a fabulous bar serving drinks and light snacks which is also a great spot for a nightcap. For relaxation there is a Lifestyle Studio featuring a gym, Finnish sauna, bio sauna & ice fountain.
Check Mark Disclaimer: Prices listed are per person, based on double occupancy, and in USD. All promotions are valid for new bookings only, capacity controlled and valid on select dates and departures. Individual Terms and Conditions will apply to all promotions. Any promotion can be withdrawn at any time without notice. Please speak with your Pavlus Travel Planner for complete vendor terms and conditions, including eligible tour and cruise dates.

FAQ Avalon Cruises Frequently Asked Questions FAQ

Pavlus Travel tells you there's a wide World out there just waiting to be explored on river cruises by you, and Avalon Waterways like Pavlus Travel knows there is more than a river cruise for you and your family to see it all. Why not experience local cities, villages, and countrysides your way with a wide selection of active excursions and activities brought to you by Avalon River Cruises that put you right in the middle of it all. Borrow a bike to ride through the streets of Amsterdam, grab a Nordic walking stick to capture the castle with a hike up the vineyard off the Rhine River, or paddle a canoe along Austria’s river shores. Pavlus makes it easy to turn sightseeing into doing your adventure in real time. You’ll find all the guidance and gear you from Avalon Waterways staff to embark on an expedition of your own. From a complimentary yoga class aboard your Avalon River Cruise to a jogging tour of Vienna or an optional kayaking excursion. Know that Pavlus Travel discounts Avalon River Cruises be they in Europe or the Far East. You'll enjoy every Avalon River Cruises Ship.