Enchanting Rhine (Christmas Time)

7 Nights • AmaWaterways

From £2,893pp | Departs from Basel

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Enchanting Rhine (Christmas Time)

Offer Highlights

  • AmaWaterways
  • Basel
  • Included
  • River Cruise
  • AmaSofia
  • luxury
  • Europe, Western Europe, Rhine
  • Switzerland, Germany, France, Netherlands
  • 8 days / 7 nights

Coming to life with seasonal lights and holiday festivities, the legendary Rhine captivates those who glide along its waters at the start of the holiday season. Fabled towns lost in time present you with the chance to taste seasonal flavors such as glühwein, and to touch history up close with guided walking tours and active excursions. Timeless traditions remain intact—from the brewing of Germany’s legendary beers to the making of Rüdesheimer coffee. Take a front-row seat on an enchanting journey that takes you along the Rhine and through its designated UNESCO World Heritage Site with its 40 castles strung like pearls on its riverbanks and to magnificent cities and charming villages alike. From the majestic Swiss Alps to Amsterdam’s colorful canals, board your beautifully decorated ship and journey into the heart of the destinations you visit, experiencing the holiday spirit that comes alive on board and on shore along the Rhine during this Festive Delights river cruise.

Basel

Basel is a city in northwestern Switzerland on the Swiss, French and German borders. It is located on the bend of the River Rhine and benefits from a Mediterranean climate. It is the third most populated city in Switzerland and has been the commercial hub for Swiss arts and culture since the Renaissance. In 1967 the people of Basel voted to acquire two paintings by Picasso, who was so moved by the Basel people that he donated 3 paintings and a study to the city's Kunstmuseum (Museum of Fine Arts). Visit the Augusta Raurica, one of the largest Roman archaeology parks in Switzerland, and enjoy a river crossings over the River Rhine by non-motorised ferries. During the summer months, time is spent outdoors, either swimming in the River Rhine, dining al fresco, enjoying open air concerts, cinema, street parties and festivals. Basel is home to over 20 restaurants that have won GaultMillau or Michelin awards, and boasts Switzerland's largest collection of theatre shows, including modern contemporary dance, touring and puppetry theatre.

Breisach

Breisach is a town located in Southwest Germany on the French border. The town is situated in the Rhine Valley on the banks of the river Rhine and dates back over four thousand years. Breisach and its history can be experienced through the City History Museum, which houses a permanent exhibition taking you from Stone Age through the Celtic, to the Romans and Middle Ages, right up to modern day. St Stephen's Cathedral is home to the city’s famous art treasures, the wheel wells, which are housed in the neighbouring Radbrunnenturm with the forty one metre deep water well. The cathedral is also home to many other treasures including the High Altar of Master HL and wall paintings by Martin Schongauer as well as High Gothic and Roman architecture. A visit to the Blue House, the former Jewish Community Centre, is highly recommended. Now owned by the Friends of Former Jewish Community House Breisach it exhibits memorials to Breisach’s Jewish heritage.

Strasbourg

STRASBOURG, FRANCE. In Strasbourg, the magic of the holidays comes alive as you wander the storybook streets of UNESCO-listed La Petite France, marvel at the Cathédrale de Nôtre Dame, or glide through the festive city and Parc de l’Orangerie on a guided bike tour.

Ludwigshafen and Rüdesheim am Rhein

LUDWIGSHAFEN, GERMANY – RÜDESHEIM. From Ludwigshafen, begin your journey through Germany’s heart with a visit to Heidelberg’s fairy-tale castle or the historic streets of Speyer. Later, sail to Rüdesheim and soak in the festive spirit with Siegfried’s Mechanical Instrument Cabinet or a warming Rüdesheimer Coffee made with brandy.

Rudesheim am Rhine is a town in the Rhine Valley in Germany and part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Rhine Gorge. It is known for its production of Riesling wine and has been popular for its wine making since ancient times. The Medieval Bromserburg Castle is home to the Rheingau Wine Museum and wine is a crucial part of Rudesheimer culture. The town is surrounded with vineyards and wineries, as well as many local wine bars and seasonal wine taverns. Wine tasting is a must do in Rudesheim and dining out is a great accompaniment. The local cuisine is seasonal and is closely intertwined with the wine growing traditions together with soups such as Zwiebelkuchen, Handkäs mit Musik and Spundekäs. Nordic Walking is popular around town, with five adventure trails around the vicinity, as well as many popular cycling routes. Great views of the town can be found from the water, the cable car to Niederwald Monument and the Monument itself. Old Town has the best examples of the town’s architecture with Eagle Tower, Oberstrasse and Rheinstein Castle some key sites to visit.

Rüdesheim am Rhein and Lahnstein

Rudesheim am Rhine is a town in the Rhine Valley in Germany and part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Rhine Gorge. It is known for its production of Riesling wine and has been popular for its wine making since ancient times. The Medieval Bromserburg Castle is home to the Rheingau Wine Museum and wine is a crucial part of Rudesheimer culture. The town is surrounded with vineyards and wineries, as well as many local wine bars and seasonal wine taverns. Wine tasting is a must do in Rudesheim and dining out is a great accompaniment. The local cuisine is seasonal and is closely intertwined with the wine growing traditions together with soups such as Zwiebelkuchen, Handkäs mit Musik and Spundekäs. Nordic Walking is popular around town, with five adventure trails around the vicinity, as well as many popular cycling routes. Great views of the town can be found from the water, the cable car to Niederwald Monument and the Monument itself. Old Town has the best examples of the town’s architecture with Eagle Tower, Oberstrasse and Rheinstein Castle some key sites to visit.

Monheim am Rhein and Düsseldorf

MONHEIM - DÜSSELDORF, GERMANY. Start your day in Monheim with a choice of a half- or full-day tour of Cologne, exploring the enchanting Old Town and the majestic UNESCO-listed Cologne Cathedral, then continue to Düsseldorf for a festive walking tour or an active bike ride through the city streets, soaking in the holiday lights and seasonal cheer.

Utrecht and Amsterdam

UTRECHT – AMSTERDAM, THE NETHERLANDS. Begin your journey through Utrecht with a leisurely walking tour or a special beer tasting, then set sail on a scenic cruise to Amsterdam and glide through its iconic canals, soaking in festive lights, charming gabled houses, and the cozy glow of cafés offering Dutch specialties.

Amsterdam combines the unrivaled beauty of the 17th-century Golden Age city center with plenty of museums and art of the highest order, not to mention a remarkably laid-back atmosphere. It all comes together to make this one of the world's most appealing and offbeat metropolises in the world. Built on a latticework of concentric canals like an aquatic rainbow, Amsterdam is known as the City of Canals—but it's no Venice, content to live on moonlight serenades and former glory. Quite the contrary: on nearly every street here you'll find old and new side by side—quiet corners where time seems to be holding its breath next to streets like neon-lit Kalverstraat, and Red Light ladies strutting by the city's oldest church. Indeed, Amsterdam has as many lovely facets as a 40-carat diamond polished by one of the city's gem cutters. It's certainly a metropolis, but a rather small and very accessible one. Locals tend to refer to it as a big village, albeit one that happens to pack the cultural wallop of a major world destination. There are scores of concerts every day, numerous museums, summertime festivals, and, of course, a legendary year-round party scene. It's pretty much impossible to resist Amsterdam's charms. With 7,000 registered monuments, most of which began as the residences and warehouses of humble merchants, set on 160 man-made canals, and traversed by 1,500 or so bridges, Amsterdam has the largest historical inner city in Europe. Its famous circle of waterways, the grachtengordel, was a 17th-century urban expansion plan for the rich and is a lasting testament to the city’s Golden Age. This town is endearing because of its kinder, gentler nature—but a reputation for championing sex, drugs, and rock ’n’ roll does not alone account for Amsterdam's being one of the most popular destinations in Europe: consider that within a single square mile the city harbors some of the greatest achievements in Western art, from Rembrandt to Van Gogh. Not to mention that this is one of Europe's great walking cities, with so many of its treasures in the untouted details: tiny alleyways barely visible on the map, hidden garden courtyards, shop windows, floating houseboats, hidden hofjes(courtyards with almshouses), sudden vistas of church spires, and gabled roofs that look like so many unframed paintings. And don’t forget that the joy lies in details: elaborate gables and witty gable stones denoting the trade of a previous owner. Keep in mind that those XXX symbols you see all over town are not a mark of the city's triple-X reputation. They're part of Amsterdam's official coat of arms—three St. Andrew's crosses, believed to represent the three dangers that have traditionally plagued the city: flood, fire, and pestilence. The coat's motto ("Valiant, determined, compassionate") was introduced in 1947 by Queen Wilhelmina in remembrance of the 1941 February Strike in Amsterdam—the first time in Europe that non-Jewish people protested against the persecution of Jews by the Nazi regime.

Amsterdam

Amsterdam combines the unrivaled beauty of the 17th-century Golden Age city center with plenty of museums and art of the highest order, not to mention a remarkably laid-back atmosphere. It all comes together to make this one of the world's most appealing and offbeat metropolises in the world. Built on a latticework of concentric canals like an aquatic rainbow, Amsterdam is known as the City of Canals—but it's no Venice, content to live on moonlight serenades and former glory. Quite the contrary: on nearly every street here you'll find old and new side by side—quiet corners where time seems to be holding its breath next to streets like neon-lit Kalverstraat, and Red Light ladies strutting by the city's oldest church. Indeed, Amsterdam has as many lovely facets as a 40-carat diamond polished by one of the city's gem cutters. It's certainly a metropolis, but a rather small and very accessible one. Locals tend to refer to it as a big village, albeit one that happens to pack the cultural wallop of a major world destination. There are scores of concerts every day, numerous museums, summertime festivals, and, of course, a legendary year-round party scene. It's pretty much impossible to resist Amsterdam's charms. With 7,000 registered monuments, most of which began as the residences and warehouses of humble merchants, set on 160 man-made canals, and traversed by 1,500 or so bridges, Amsterdam has the largest historical inner city in Europe. Its famous circle of waterways, the grachtengordel, was a 17th-century urban expansion plan for the rich and is a lasting testament to the city’s Golden Age. This town is endearing because of its kinder, gentler nature—but a reputation for championing sex, drugs, and rock ’n’ roll does not alone account for Amsterdam's being one of the most popular destinations in Europe: consider that within a single square mile the city harbors some of the greatest achievements in Western art, from Rembrandt to Van Gogh. Not to mention that this is one of Europe's great walking cities, with so many of its treasures in the untouted details: tiny alleyways barely visible on the map, hidden garden courtyards, shop windows, floating houseboats, hidden hofjes(courtyards with almshouses), sudden vistas of church spires, and gabled roofs that look like so many unframed paintings. And don’t forget that the joy lies in details: elaborate gables and witty gable stones denoting the trade of a previous owner. Keep in mind that those XXX symbols you see all over town are not a mark of the city's triple-X reputation. They're part of Amsterdam's official coat of arms—three St. Andrew's crosses, believed to represent the three dangers that have traditionally plagued the city: flood, fire, and pestilence. The coat's motto ("Valiant, determined, compassionate") was introduced in 1947 by Queen Wilhelmina in remembrance of the 1941 February Strike in Amsterdam—the first time in Europe that non-Jewish people protested against the persecution of Jews by the Nazi regime.

AmaSofia

AmaSofia

Debuting in Spring 2026, AmaSofia will sail the Rhine and Danube with AmaWaterways’ signature blend of elegance and warmth. Accommodating up to 156 guests, the ship features twin-balcony staterooms, a Sun Deck pool with swim-up bar, and inviting spaces designed for both relaxation and social connection. Guests can enjoy multiple dining venues including The Chef’s Table, lighter bites served throughout the day, and a 24-hour coffee station. A fitness room, bicycles for exploring ashore, and massage services complete the experience, while attentive service and immersive excursions make every journey feel personal.

Unique Features


Suite
Suite
Suite

Spacious Staterooms and SuitesUnwind in thoughtfully designed rooms with room to relax and enjoy the river views. Elegant décor and comfortable spaces...

350 sq ft Max 2 guests
Queen or Twin Configuration Lounge Area Vanity Area Shower Room Service Available TV +5 more
Category AA Staterooms
Category AA Staterooms
Balcony

Balconies and Panoramic ViewsTake in ever-changing scenery from your room, whether through a picture window, French balcony, or our signature twin bal...

235 sq ft Max 2 guests
Queen or Twin Configuration Lounge Area Vanity Area Shower Room Service Available TV +5 more
Category AB Staterooms
Category AB Staterooms
Balcony

Balconies and Panoramic ViewsTake in ever-changing scenery from your room, whether through a picture window, French balcony, or our signature twin bal...

235 sq ft Max 2 guests
Queen or Twin Configuration Lounge Area Vanity Area Shower Room Service Available TV +5 more
Category BA Staterooms
Category BA Staterooms
Balcony

Balconies and Panoramic ViewsTake in ever-changing scenery from your room, whether through a picture window, French balcony, or our signature twin bal...

210 sq ft Max 2 guests
Queen or Twin Configuration Lounge Area Vanity Area Shower Room Service Available TV +5 more
Category BB Staterooms
Category BB Staterooms
Balcony

Balconies and Panoramic ViewsTake in ever-changing scenery from your room, whether through a picture window, French balcony, or our signature twin bal...

210 sq ft Max 2 guests
Queen or Twin Configuration Lounge Area Vanity Area Shower Room Service Available TV +5 more
Category CA Staterooms
Category CA Staterooms
Balcony

Balconies and Panoramic ViewsTake in ever-changing scenery from your room, whether through a picture window, French balcony, or our signature twin bal...

170 sq ft Max 2 guests
Queen or Twin Configuration Lounge Area Vanity Area Shower Room Service Available TV +5 more
Category CB Staterooms
Category CB Staterooms
Balcony

Balconies and Panoramic ViewsTake in ever-changing scenery from your room, whether through a picture window, French balcony, or our signature twin bal...

155 sq ft Max 2 guests
Queen or Twin Configuration Lounge Area Vanity Area Shower Room Service Available TV +5 more
Category D Staterooms
Category D Staterooms
Outside

Comfort and Understated LuxuryExperience the art of subtle indulgence in every room. Soft fabrics, marble-tiled bathrooms, and thoughtful touches elev...

Max 2 guests
Queen or Twin Configuration Lounge Area Vanity Area Shower Room Service Available TV +4 more
Category E Staterooms
Category E Staterooms
Outside

Comfort and Understated LuxuryExperience the art of subtle indulgence in every room. Soft fabrics, marble-tiled bathrooms, and thoughtful touches elev...

160 sq ft Max 2 guests
Queen or Twin Configuration Lounge Area Vanity Area Room Service Available TV Safe +4 more

 AmaSofia has three main dining venues:

  • Main Restaurant: Menus highlight both regional specialties and international favorites.
  • The Chef’s Table: An intimate space for a multi-course tasting menu.
  • Al Fresco Terrace: Fresh-air dining with panoramic views.

Guests can also enjoy all-day tapas, afternoon tea, and a 24-hour coffee station. Vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other dietary needs are happily accommodated.

Exquisite Dining On Board
Experience award-winning cuisine inspired by the regions you sail through. Every dish is crafted from the freshest local ingredients and presented with elegance, turning each meal into a celebration of flavor, artistry, and place.

Journey Restaurant
Journey Restaurant
Complimentary

Experience award-winning cuisine inspired by the regions you sail through. Every dish is crafted from the freshest local...

The Chef’s Table
The Chef’s Table
Complimentary

Enjoy an intimate, multi-course dinner where culinary artistry shines at The Chef’s Table, available on select sailings....

Get a glimpse of what awaits you aboard your AmaWaterways cruise ship, where every moment on board is designed to make your journey feel effortless and memorable.

The Lark Lounge & Bar
The Lark Lounge & Bar
Bar Lounge

This versatile space hosts a bar, dance floor, plenty of comfortable couches and big windows on thre...

Onboard Entertainment
Onboard Entertainment
Lounge Theatre

Onboard Performances and Musical EveningsThroughout many voyages, the ship’s lounge transforms into...

Boutique
Boutique
Shop

The onboard boutique offers a variety of souvenirs for guests to purchase.

Reception
Reception
Reception

The Reception is located on the Violin Deck.

AmaSofia has a fitness room, massage services, a Sun Deck pool with swim-up bar, and complimentary bicycles available for guided or independent exploration ashore.

There’s a variety of ways to relax and recharge on every AmaWaterways vessel. From ships equipped with fitness centers and pickleball courts to luxurious spa and salon treatments, wellness is focused on the whole you.

Sun Deck
Sun Deck
Pool

Soak up some rays or take a dip in our refreshing pool with a swim-up bar as we pass by centuries-ol...

Fitness Classes
Fitness Classes
Exercise Class

Start the day with intention through gentle stretching, yoga, or quiet moments on deck, surrounded b...

Fitness Room
Fitness Room
Gym

Are you looking for a way to stay fit on vacation? Hit the treadmill or lift some weights while crui...

Massage Services and Hair Salon
Massage Services and Hair Salon
Wellness Salon

Whether you’d like to dress up for the captain’s special dinner or a night out on the town, you can...

Sun Deck
Sun Deck

  • Wheelhouse
  • The Deck Club
  • Pool
  • Sun Deck
  • Walking Track

Violin Deck
Violin Deck
  • The Chefs Table
  • The Lark Lounge & Bar
  • Al Fresco
  • Reception
  • Boutique
  • Suite
  • Category AA
  • Category BA
  • Category CA
  • Category CB
  • Elevator
Cello Deck
Cello Deck

  • Journeys Restaurant
  • Category AB Cabins
  • Category BB Cabins
  • Category CA Cabins
  • Elevator

Piano Deck
Piano Deck

  • Massage & Hair Salon
  • Fitness Room
  • Category D Cabins
  • Category E Cabins
  • Crew Cabins

Choose your cabin

AmaSofia Basel → Amsterdam 18 Nov 2028 – 25 Nov 2028 Available
From £2,893 pp
Flights included. Prices include flights and transfers — everything's covered, so you can book online.
Window

Cabin with a river-view window

2 options

from £2,893 pp
Balcony

French or outside balcony with river views

6 options

from £3,781 pp
Suite

Spacious suite with premium extras

1 option

from £6,004 pp
Date Ship Window Balcony Suite
22 Dec 2027 AmaPrima £3,207 £4,437 £6,437 View
23 Dec 2027 AmaSiena £3,207 £4,129 £6,437 View
16 Nov 2028 AmaLucia £2,893 £3,781 £6,004 View
18 Nov 2028 AmaSofia £2,893 £3,781 £6,004 Viewing
19 Nov 2028 AmaStella £3,189 £4,078 £6,300 View
From £2,893 per person

Need help with booking? Call us: 01792 482 432

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