Radiant Rhine from Mainz to Amsterdam
Radiant Rhine from Mainz to Amsterdam
Radiant Rhine from Mainz to Amsterdam
8 Days Starting in Frankfurt and ending in Amsterdam
Visiting: France, Germany, Holland
Tour Overview
This extraordinary river cruise will take you on a magical journey through the River Rhine. Discover the most breathtaking destinations in Europe as you pass by historic castles and ancient fortresses. Begin your journey in Mainz the wine capital of Germany. Cross the border and sail into France to enjoy a spectacular stay in Strasbourg, a city that blends French and German culture. Enjoy a stop in Mannheim, where you may discover the energetic cultural scene, the busy city centre, and the landmark palace of Barockshloss Mannheim. From there you will travel to Rudesheim, home to the Rheingau wine region famous for its superior Rieslings before you stop to Koblenz to explore the beautiful park and flower-filled city. Sail along the river to visit Cologne, one of the largest cities in Germany home to a wide range of attractions. Whether you are interested in uncovering rich history, exploring the famous cathedrals, or learning about local sports, Cologne has something to offer you. Finally, you will travel to your final stop, in Amsterdam, home to enchanting, intertwined canals, world-renown museums, and Dutch Baroque architecture.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Frankfurt - Mainz Embarkation (-/-/D)
Welcome to Mainz! Make your own way from Frankfurt International airport to the Mainz port, where you will check-in for your cruise and settle into your cabin. Check-in begins at 4:00 PM. This evening, enjoy a welcome dinner and a musical evening in the lounge.
Overnight on board
Day 2: Mannheim (B/L/D)
This morning you will arrive in Mannheim. This city sits on the Rhine and Neckar Rivers, with a historical 18th century, baroque Palace which houses exhibits, and the University of Mannheim. At the centre of this beautiful city, you will find shopping streets and a Romanesque water tower surrounded by magnificent gardens.
Optional: Heidelberg Castle Tour
Heidelberg is a pedestrian-friendly city — especially in the Altstadt, or Old Town, where your explorations are likely to begin. Most sights are within a block or two of the Hauptstrasse or Main Street, which runs with an occasional name change; from the department stores of the Bismarkplatz to the Karlstor at the eastern end of town. The churches, especially the Gothic Heiliggeistkirche on the Marktplatz (with its built-in market stalls), the Jesuitkirche, and the Peterskirche (Heidelberg's second-oldest church, dating back to 1316) are just gorgeous. Schloss Heidelberg deserves a visit: It is on a hill behind the Altstadt, which you can reach by foot (via winding streets or paths). You can also take the Heidelberger Bergbahn Railway, which runs to the castle and up to the Königstuhl, offering long-distance views, a falconry center, children's fairy-tale park, and other attractions.
Overnight on board
Day 3: Strasbourg (B/L/D)
Wake up this morning aboard your riverboat, docked outside the historic city of Strasbourg, France, surrounded by the hills of southern Alsace. Renowned for its fairy-tale charm — and as the “Crossroads of Europe” home to the European Union — Strasbourg is the cultural capital of the French region of Alsace. You can return to the riverboat for lunch or stay in Strasbourg and spend the afternoon exploring as you please. Among the treasures, you will see the medieval canals, watchtowers, and half-timbered houses of La Petite France. Discover a UNESCO World Heritage Site; stately city residences; the modern buildings of the European Parliament, and the 11th century Gothic Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Strasbourg.
Optional: Strasbourg Bus and Walking Tour
Strasbourg is considered the daughter of the Rhine River. The city is famous for its rich history, cathedrals, architecture, and gastronomy. With this walking tour, you will discover fascinating historical sights. Petite France is an area on the Grand Île, nicknamed the Venice of the North due to its narrow streets and canals. This is a delightful area to visit which will take you back to Medieval Strasbourg. One destination that should be on your “must-see” list is the Place Gutenberg, which lies in the center of medieval Strasbourg, not far from the Cathedral. This large square is a favorite for locals and tourists alike as it has a lot of excellent cafes and restaurants to offer.
Overnight on board
Day 4: Worms – Rudesheim (B/L/D)
Full board on board. In the morning we arrive in Worms. The Germanic settlers made Worms their capital. The city is also famous for its Romanesque architecture. The highlight of the visit is the 11th century St. Peter's Cathedral. With its four towers and twin domes, this spectacular old building ranks alongside the cathedrals of Speyer and Mainz as one of the finest achievements of the High Romanesque style. The nave is particularly impressive, rising some 27 metres, while its domes reach heights of 40 metres. Bormes is also a popular base for a tour of the Deutsche Weinstrasse, a 50-mile route through the local wine towns. Optional visit. In the afternoon, we will drop anchor in Rüdesheim, one of the most visited towns in the country. Historical monuments such as the Klunkhardshof, the fortified Adler Tower, the thousand-year-old Brömser Castle or the ruins of Ehrenfels Castle invite you to spend some time here.
Overnight stopover in the city.
Overnight on board
Day 5: Koblenz (B/L/D)
Full board on board. In the afternoon, we will stop in one of the most beautiful and oldest cities in Germany: Koblenz. The city is in the world famous \"German Bend\". The spectacular landscape of four central massifs, vineyards and forests surrounds this town, whose more than 2,000 years of existence is reflected in the architectural heritage in the form of wonderful churches and palaces, old aristocratic manors and the magnificent manor houses of the gentry.
Overnight on board
Day 6: Cologne (B/L/D)
Full board on board. Cologne is home to countless cultural and historical treasures and a varied art scene. Take a journey through 2,000 years of history and visit cultural monuments from the time of the Roman Empire to modern times. Our optional guided tour will take you to Cologne's Old Town and its famous Gothic cathedral, symbol of the city for centuries. Free time at leisure. Captain's dinner.
Overnight on board
Day 7: Amsterdam (B/L/D)
Full board on board. After lunch, our ship arrives in Amsterdam's river port (at the Zaandam or Coenhaven pier). The city's canals, world-famous museums and historical monuments make Amsterdam one of the most romantic and beautiful cities in Europe. Enjoy our optional panoramic tour of the Dutch capital. Afternoon at leisure.
Overnight stopover in the city.
Optional: Amsterdam Walking Tour
Amsterdam is a breathtaking city with plenty of attractions to offer and more than enough to keep you entertained. Get your bearings on this city tour of Amsterdam, perfect for first-time visitors. Discover Amsterdam as our expert guide will show you everything you will want to see at this popular European destination. With thousands of monuments and historic buildings, Amsterdam is home to the largest historical city center in Europe. The city is distinguished by its three rings of canals lined by elaborately decorated merchants' residences and warehouses built in the 17th century, the Dutch Golden Age. When the canals were built, 90 islands were created, connected by hundreds of enchanting bridges.
Overnight on board
Day 8: Amsterdam - (B/-/-)
Make your own way to the Amsterdam airport for your flight towards onwards destination. Enjoy inflight meals and services onboard.
What's Included
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07 nights accommodation on twin sharing basis at the listed Superior vessel or similar
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Full board meal plan while onboard cruise
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Tea and coffee with all meals
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Afternoon high tea: tea, coffee, and cake or late snack
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Welcome cocktail, dinner
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Farewell cocktail and dinner
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Daily bottled water in the cabin
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Luggage service between pier and ship
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Experienced English-speaking cruise director
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Onboard entertainment
What's Not Included
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Items of personal nature
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Additional Fuel Surcharges due the Ukraine war (50 USD per person) – Subject to change
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Arrival and departure transfers
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Items not mentioned as included
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Gratuities (5 EUR per person, per day payable in cash only)
Check out our Q&As
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Can I join the tour once it has departed?
Yes, but only in case it was previously agreed by both sides and arranged by us.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Our e-document package includes all local contact details, daily itinerary, airline e-ticket information, service vouchers, and travel tips which should be everything you require to go on your trip.
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If I need one, who is responsible to obtain my visa?
You are responsible for obtaining the proper travel documents for the destinations on your itinerary, including having a passport that is valid for at least 6 months before the date of departure and a visa if required. Please check the Visa section in the Know Before You Go document for the countries you will be visiting.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
No, not as standard. Solo travellers can book and occupy their own room for a supplement.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
We have been organizing unforgettable trips since 2001.
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Can I arrange flights via Indus Travels, too?
In some cases, yes. Indus Travels can provide flights from/to selected departure points in the USA. If you would like a quote inclusive of flights, please let us know and we'll be happy to check the details for you!
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
Changes to an existing reservation up to the Final Payment Date, whatever the cause, will incur a $100 per person amendment fee, potential loss of any supplier fees (such as non-refundable event tickets, park permits, and sea cruise reservations) plus any costs for replacement services. On/ after the Final Payment Date, the $100 change fee is no longer valid, instead cancellations terms apply.
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Low Deposit
Indus Travels requires a minimum deposit of 25% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 45 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of indus travels charges.
Up to 75 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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