SOUTHERN RHINE EXPERIENCE
Cologne to Cologne
7 Night South Rhine Cruise
The Rhine is the chameleon of the world’s rivers. Sometimes it seems wild; indeed, in the past it was dangerous, particularly at the Lorelei rocks. At other times it appears vast, as when it joins the Moselle in Koblenz. The romantic meadows of Rastatt invite you to picnic after an afternoon of rowing. And at other times human beings have tamed the river and turned it into an ornamental companion for elegant riverside promenades in cities such as Basle. It’s the perfect match for Baroque and Gothic architecture, and it looks amazing in photos. But its true home is between wild cliffs and dense forests, and between knights’ castles and winemaking villages whose vineyards it has made fertile over the course of its history.
DAY 1: Cologne (Embarkation)
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.DAY 2: Rudesheim
The town describes its biggest attraction, the world-famous Drosselgasse, as ‘144 metres of joie de vivre’. This centre of Rhine Romanticism once inspired poets and musicians – it was here that Brahms composed his Symphony No. 3. Rüdesheim is the best-known spot in the Rheingau and has plenty of cultural attractions, including stately homes and fortifications. And no visit to the towns and countryside of this area of the Rhine would be complete without a Rüdesheim coffee, which was invented here.DAY 3: Germersheim (Speyer)
Welcome to the Upper Rhine. Germersheim is only about 20 km from the city of Speyer, which is over 2000 years old. Speyer is Germany’s oldest planned medieval town. Speyer’s most prominent monument is its cathedral. As one of the country’s most important High Romanesque cathedrals, it is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You are sure to have an enjoyable day in Speyer.DAY 4: Breisach
Make sure you have your cameras to hand as you sail into your next port. Perched on a steep cliff above the Rhine, Breisach is picture-perfect with pastel-hued buildings set in beautiful rolling vineyards. Where the Black Forest spills into the Alsace region, this German town shares a lot with its French neighbours - its love of good food and good wine amongst them. Painstakingly reconstructed after almost total devastation in WWII, this pretty port is made for a leisurely day's exploring. We recommend making the climb uphill to St Stephen Cathedral, the town's major landmark and seat of extraordinary views across this attractive region. St. Stephan's church which is home to a beautiful altar by Hans Loi and wall - paintings by Martin Schongauer.DAY 5: Basel
Basel is known as the cultural capital of Switzerland and today you can stroll downtown to discover a variety of museums and galleries. Alternatively join an optional tour which includes a panoramic tour by coach and a walk through the oldest part of the city. You may also wish to take advantage of an optional trip to Lucerne, one of the prettiest Swiss lakeside towns. Many people have only driven through or passed by the ‘Gateway to Switzerland’. Now, as your Rhine cruise takes you along the southern Rhine, you’ll get to know Basel much better. The city is home to Switzerland’s oldest university. Its other highlights include the medieval old town with its staircases and the Gate of Spalen – plus 27 museums.DAY 6: Strasbourg (Kehl)
Today your Rhine river cruise will call at Strasbourg – a centre of European policymaking. With its medieval half-timbered houses and its elegant city palaces, Strasbourg really stands out from the crowd. But the highlight is the cathedral. From its viewing platform, the city’s half-timbered houses appear as small as pieces from a model railway set. Enjoy your day in the French part of the Rhine region!DAY 7: Cruising Middle Rhine - Mainz - Koblenz
Mainz
Halfway between Lake Constance and the North Sea, the Rhine meets Mainz. This carnival city is known for its cheerful atmosphere and its hospitality. Why not go for a stroll along the tranquil riverbank or enjoy a good glass of local wine while you’re there? You could also visit the city’s main landmark: Saint Martin’s Cathedral. It boasts one of the richest church interiors in the Christian world. Another important building in Mainz is the Kurfürstliche Schloss (Electoral Palace). This is a prime example of the German Renaissance style of architecture.
This morning the ship docks at Mainz, one of Germany's most historic cities. Today's optional walking tour of the city will introduce you to some of the highlights such as St Stephen's Church, with its windows by Chagall, St Martin's Cathedral and the university, originally built as a Jesuit college between 1615 and 1618.
Mainz bleibt Mainz (or ‘Mainz is always Mainz’) is more than a carnival motto. It is an expression of the easy-going way of life that makes the locals proud of their city, makes it easy for non-locals to settle in and helps visitors to enjoy their stay here. With 2,000 years of history, Mainz is not just one of the oldest cities in Germany – it is also a place where you can see history come alive wherever you turn.
Koblenz
Discover Koblenz during your Rhine cruise. Its history dates back over 2,000 years, making it one of Germany’s oldest cities – and one of its most picturesque, with a wealth of sights and cultural attractions. Marvel at Koblenz’s palaces, stately homes, grand townhouses, narrow lanes and romantic corners. And watch as our A-ROSA ship sails close to the famous Deutsches Eck headland.DAY 8: Cologne (Disembarkation)
Your Southern Rhine Cruise comes to an end this morning as you disembark in Cologne after breakfast.
Cologne to Cologne
| Day | Port | Arr | Dep | Comments |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Cologne (Germany) | 6:00pm | Embarkation 2:00pm | |
| 2 | Rudesheim (Germany) | 9:00am | 6:00pm | Optional city tour |
| 3 | Germersheim/Speyer (Germany) | 5:00am | 7:00pm | Optional city tour with free time |
| 4 | Breisach (Germany) | 2:00pm | 11:59pm | |
| 5 | Basel (Switzerland) | 08:00am | 7:30pm | Optional city tour with free time |
| 6 | Kehl (Germany) Strasbourg (France) | 11:30am | 6:00pm | |
| 7 | Mainz (Germany) | 08:00am | 12:00pm | |
| 7 | Lorelei passage in the afternoon | |||
| 7 | Koblenz (Germany) | 6:30pm | 9:30pm | |
| 8 | Cologne (Germany) | 08:00am | Disembarkation 09:00 |
- subject to changes -
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BOOK BY NOVEMBER 30, 2024 AND SAVE $500 PER PERSON
2025 Per Person Cruise Only Fares
| Departure | Ship | Cat (S) Deck 1 Back Deck |
Cat (A) Deck 1 |
Cat (C) Deck 2 French Doors | Cat (D) Deck 3 French Doors | Cat (E) Deck 3 Jr Suite with French Doors | Cat (F) Deck 3 Balcony Suite |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 27-Apr-25 | Silva | $2,359 | $2,483 | $2,856 | $2,980 | $4,472 | $5,399 |
| 18-May-25 | Silva | $2,483 | $2,608 | $2,980 | $3,105 | $4,658 | $5,591 |
| 25-May-25 | Silva | $2,483 | $2,608 | $2,980 | $3,105 | $4,658 | $5,591 |
| 29-Jun-25 | Silva | $2,359 | $2,483 | $2,856 | $2,980 | $4,472 | $5,399 |
PRICE SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITH RATE EXCHANGE
REGULAR Rate includes: cruise and port taxes, listed INCLUDED excursions, and a beverage package - Soft Drinks, as well as tea and coffee specialties, Beer, sparkling white wine, Cremant and Prosecco (in a glass), as well as open wines and daily recommendations from the wine menu (by the glass), Cocktails and long drinks throughout the day and evening. Sightseeing excursions are not included and can be booked onboard.
A-ROSA Alea
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Deck 3 |
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Deck 2 |
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| Deck 1 4 back cabins are Cat S Other cabins are Cat A |
A-ROSA Clea
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Deck 4 |
Deck 3 |
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| Deck 2 Cabins are Cat C with French doors |
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| Deck 1 2 yellow cabins are Cat S Other cabins are Cat A |
