Our tip
Explore by water, or by bicycle to get a feel for the city – a hop on hop off canal boat, or rented bike or pedalo will do the trick.
From Amsterdam to Basel
City Escapes: Grand Rhine & Dutch Canals
From Amsterdam to Basel
City Escapes: Grand Rhine & Dutch Canals
Voyage Itinerary
25 February to 26 February
Setting sail from Amsterdam
Amsterdam is one of our very favourite cities to visit, as well as also being a perfect base to explore the nearby landscape of windmills and dikes. The Amsterdam canal belt is now officially recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, and from them there are so many neighbourhoods to explore, such as the Jordaan with its higgledy-piggledy streets and its famed garden courtyards (hofjes). There are also a wealth of famous museums and galleries to choose from, such as the Van Gogh Museum, the Rijksmuseum and the Anne Frank House, not to mention some more, shall we say, quirky options.
26 February
Netherlands: Utrecht
27 February
Netherlands: Hellevoetsluis
28 February
Belgium: Ghent
Ghent is one of Belgium’s most captivating cities, home to pretty canals lined by handsome brick houses and a burgeoning restaurant scene. The architectural highlights of Ghent’s medieval centre include the soaring Gothic tower of St Bavo’s cathedral, and the city also boasts some excellent museums and galleries.
1 March
Belgium: Brussels
Brussels is a very multicultural city, as you'd expect given its position at the political centre of Europe, and boasts an excellent selection of restaurants, cafés and bars, where you can sample moules-frites, Belgian waffles or dangerously drinkable Trappist beer.
2 March
Belgium: Antwerp
Antwerp is a city bound up with the arts, once home to the likes of Rubens and Van Dyck, and more recently carving out a reputation as the fashion capital of Belgium. It’s also a magnet for shopaholics, with designer boutiques and jewellers galore.
3 March
Netherlands: Dordrecht
Dordrecht was first granted a town charter in the 13th century, and its importance as a merchant city is reflected in the delightful historic architecture of the old harbour. Just outside the city is the watery expanse of Biesbosch National Park, a freshwater delta criss-crossed by walking trails and cycle paths.
4 March to 5 March
Netherlands: Amsterdam
Amsterdam is one of our very favourite cities to visit, and comes alive with vibrant spring colours during tulip season. There is a wealth of famous museums and galleries to choose from, such as the Van Gogh Museum, the Rijksmuseum and the Anne Frank House.
5 March
Netherlands: Utrecht
6 March
Germany: Düsseldorf
Dynamic Düsseldorf, known for its diverse cultural scene, is a lovely place to spend a day exploring. Discover its lively and historic Aldstadt - old town - with its numerous beer halls (known as the 'longest bar in the world') or stroll along the elegant Königsallee for shopping and riverside views. For culture, there are numerous art galleries, museums, the Opera House, or the Heinrich Heine Institute.
7 March
Germany: Rüdesheim
The pretty little town of Rüdesheim, situated on a bend in the Rhine surrounded by vineyards, is a popular destination for travellers looking for a slice of quintessentially German village life. The Drosselgasse, a narrow cobbled lane flanked by old timber frame buildings, is particularly atmospheric.
8 March
Germany: Ludwigshafen
Most travellers use Ludwigshafen as a jumping off point to explore nearby Heidelberg and its sandstone castle with sprawling gardens; the Philosophenweg (Philosopher's Path) that offers breathtaking views of the castle, city, and river; and the historic Old Town where church spires punctuate the skyline. Alternatively stroll through the medieval charm of Ladenburg on the banks of the Rhine, that describes itself as the oldest town in Germany.
9 March
France: Strasbourg
Strasbourg is the capital of France’s Alsace region, right next to the border with Germany, and there is a tangible Germanic influence that sets the city a little apart from the rest of France. Highlights include the beautiful Gothic cathedral, the old town’s fairytale half-timbered houses, and the pictureque canals of the Petite France district.
10 March
Germany: Breisach
Breisach is a small town on the western fringe of the Black Forest, separated from the French region of Alsace by a bend in the river Rhine. This proximity to France is reflected in a vibrant food and wine scene, and architectural highlights include the hilltop St Stephen's cathedral.
11 March
Arriving in Basel
Basel lies where Switzerland, France and Germany meet, a sophisticated and multicultural city with a picturesque setting astride the river Rhine. The medieval Old Town is exceptionally well preserved, best appreciated from the summit of the hilltop cathedral, which offers incredible views across the city.
Our tip
The food here is great, with so many different influences. Try salmon ‘nach Basler Art’ (in a white wine marinade with fried onions), and wash it down with the local Riesling.
The ship
AmaVenita
- Capacity:
- 156 Guests
- Crew:
- 51 Staff
- Style:
- Relaxed and informal during the day, giving way to an elegant evening atmosphere.
AmaWaterways' sophisticated ships offer spacious, beautifully decorated accommodation, along with inviting and contemporary public spaces.
What we love
These innovative ships feature a heated sun deck swimming pool and large 'twin balconies' in many staterooms. Enjoy the informal style during the day whilst relaxing on the Sundeck, and in the evening indulge in the gourmet cuisine in the main dining room or The Chef's Table.
inclusions
- All meals in all venues
- Beer, wine & soft drinks with lunch and dinner
- Sip & Sail cocktail hour
- Sightseeing and excursions
- Tea and coffee throughout the day
- WiFi and on-demand entertainment
- Bicycles and fitness centre
- Flights from London and overseas group transfers
Tailor-make your trip
Ways to make it better
Two nights in Amsterdam
There is a fantastic range of canal front hotels to choose from, but we love the new Waldorf Astoria.
Around Amsterdam
Visit windmills in Zaanse Schans, the flowers at Keukenhof, or the cheese market in Alkmaar.
Where to stay in Basel
The Grand Hotel Les Trois Rois (three kings) is one of Europe’s oldest city hotels.
Excursions from Basel
If the Romans are your thing then you'll enjoy Switzerland’s largest Roman ruins at Augusta Raurica, with the excellent Römermuseum alongside.
How can we help?
Our frequently asked questions
From cruise tips to travel protection, here are some of our most-asked questions
visit our faqs
Will I save by booking with Mundy Cruising?
Absolutely. You'll save money and time by booking with us rather than directly with the cruise line and enjoy more flexibility in your travel arrangements. We have access to preferential rates and exclusive offers, and we offer expert advice on how to get the best value.
Can you help with pre and post-cruise arrangements?
From flights and transfers to hotels and tours, we can help with all your travel needs to make sure your trip is exceptional. What's more, we are members of ABTA and also offer full ATOL protection, not to mention a 24hr emergency contact, so we offer complete peace of mind.
What are the benefits of a small luxury ship?
Because small ships are able to reach smaller ports of call and provide a higher level of service than their big ship counterparts, we believe that small ship cruising is the very best way to travel. Usually they offer more space per person, and an attentive team to make sure you have the very best experience. Small ship cruising offers the very best of the best.
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Why Mundy?
Who we are
Founded in 1970, we have sold more luxury cruises for more years than anyone else in the UK.
Mundy Cruising was the very first cruise specialist in the UK. We have been making the best cruise holidays even better since 1970.
How? Simply by offering our clients more expertise, more personal service, more unique ideas, more fascinating add-ons, more fabulous freebies and more peace of mind.
We're happy to do all of that over the phone. But if you prefer to chat face to face, why not visit us at our comfortable offices on London's High Holborn - we'd be delighted to see you.
