Embark on an 8-day cruise from Amsterdam to Basel aboard the Scenic Crystal. Discover the key highlights of the Rhine on a focused and enriching river cruise from Amsterdam to Basel. Explore historic cities and picturesque towns along one of Europe’s most iconic waterways. Visit Amsterdam and its canal network, experience the cultural crossroads of Koblenz, explore the vineyard-clad hills of Cochem, relax in the thermal spa town of Baden-Baden, and admire Strasbourg’s distinctive architecture. This curated itinerary blends cultural heritage, natural beauty, and historic charm for a comprehensive journey through the heart of Europe.

Highlights

Enjoy cruising through Europe's beautiful Rhine river valley
Explore Amsterdam’s iconic canals and charming row houses
Stroll through Cologne and marvel at its soaring Cathedral
Discover the fascinating history of Heidelberg

Activities

Places Visited

Activity Level: Variable

Activity options vary depending on destination and operator. Activity level is determined by the range and intensity of activities you choose to participate in. Discuss with your Trip Planner which options are best for you.

Full Itinerary

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Day 1: Amsterdam | Embark

Accommodation
1 Dinner

Begin your journey in the storybook city of Amsterdam, where a network of narrow laneways and canals is flanked by impeccably preserved 17th-century buildings and inviting cafes—offering endless charm at every turn.

This afternoon, step aboard your ship and settle into your spacious suite. Balcony suites feature the innovative Scenic Sun Lounge, transforming your window into an all-weather viewing space for fresh air and panoramic river views. Unwind and toast to the voyage ahead during this evening’s welcome reception.

Day 2: Amsterdam

Accommodation
1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, offers a rich tapestry of architectural elegance, world-class art galleries, and serene views of boats gliding along its 16th-century canals. Narrow cobblestone lanes are dotted with boutique shops and cozy cafés, while a constant flow of cyclists weaves through the lively streets. Often called the “Venice of the North,” the city’s UNESCO-listed canal network remains remarkably intact, bordered by historic canal houses and connected by picturesque bridges.

Freechoice

Canal cruise: Amsterdam has more than 100 kilometers of canals and today you can see some of the prettiest sights of the city from these historical waterways. This one-hour cruise takes you along the Gentleman’s Canal, where you can see The Skinny Bridge, and The Prince’s Canal, which was known for its warehouses. Go past the Old Lord Mayor’s House, The Seven Bridges, Anne Frank’s House and head to the Brewer’s Canal. As the historic center glides past, you can admire the elegant merchant’s residences, churches and warehouses, dating from the Golden Age.

City walking tour: Explore Amsterdam on foot today, discovering the maze of canals and bridges in the city center. Your guide will be covering history, modern lifestyle and Dutch culture. You also get to taste herring, a local delicacy not to be missed

Fabrique de Lumiere: Art springs to life in this impressive digital art installation, the largest in the Netherlands. Located in a former 19th-century gas works, pieces from renowned artists are projected onto the 17-meter-high walls, accompanied and complemented by music.

Cycling tour: Take a small ferry to the outskirts of town for a biking tour. Amsterdam is known as the bicycle capital of the world, with more bikes than cars and more than 35,000 kilometers of cycle paths. Your local guide will be at hand to offer information about everyday life of the Dutch people, many of whom you can see getting around on two wheels.

Day 3: Cologne

Accommodation
1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

Arrive in Cologne after lunch. This is a city known for its liberal and laidback lifestyle, a unique beer culture, thriving auto industry and the jaw-dropping cathedral that dominates its skyline. Settled by the Romans, this major cultural center for the Rhineland was built during the Middle Ages but was largely destroyed during WWII. The magnificent Gothic cathedral, an enormous World Heritage site that dates to 1248, was badly damaged but stood tall above the ruins of the city.

Freechoice

Walking tour of Cologne: Discover Cologne on a walking tour. Wander the laneways of the historical Old Town, which is home to breweries serving up draft Kolsch beer and enjoy free time to visit the city's centerpiece and icon, Cologne Cathedral. You can have further free time afterwards to explore the city on your own.

Cologne’s Cologne: Learn about one of the city’s namesakes, Eau du Cologne, on a guided tour of the Farina Museum, founded by John Maria Farina in 1709. Discover three centuries of fragrance and the history of Eau de Cologne.

Tour of Cologne Cathedral: The Cologne Cathedral or Kolner Dom as it is known locally is the largest Gothic Church in northern Europe and features twin towers that stand 157 meters tall. Join a local guide who will take you through this magnificent UNESCO World Heritage site and learn its fascinating history as well as some quirky facts such as the stroy that the Cathedral is said to contain the bones of the three wise men from the Bible.

Day 4: Koblenz

Accommodation
1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

Arrive in Koblenz this morning. Located where the Rhine and Moselle rivers meet, Koblenz is a medley of French and German cultures, and one of Germany’s oldest cities with a history spanning 2,000 years. Koblenz is surrounded by vineyards, forest and mountain ranges and is also known as the gateway to the Upper Middle Rhine Valley.

Freechoice

Guided walking tour of Koblenz: Follow your guide through one of the oldest cities in Germany. Explore the Florinsmarkt, the former political and economic center of the city. On your way through the winding streets of the old town you can see impressive townhouses, each with its own unique history, charming squares and historic churches.

Excursion to Cochem: Journey to the town of Cochem, a medieval gem resting on the banks of the Moselle River. Cochem will make you feel as if you are stepping directly into a medieval romance; the traditional town is nestled on the riverbanks, with pastel-colored buildings, half-timbered houses, cobbled laneways and an enchanting hilltop castle surrounded by sloped vineyards. Transfer via minibus to Reichsburg Castle, which dates to the Middle Ages. Enjoy a guided tour of the castle, which features a knight’s hall, trophy room and cellars, before wandering down to the Old Town seeing many historic buildings along the way.

Guided Cycling Tour of Koblenz: Ride along the Moselle and Rhine River on your guided cycling tour using Scenic’s complimentary e-bikes. Let the bike do most of the hard work while you cycle past many city attractions and cross over the Rhine River twice, while learning the historic background of Koblenz from your local guide.

After lunch, cruise along the spectacular UNESCO World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge in the Upper Middle Rhine Valley. This 65-kilometer stretch of the river is dotted with some 40 hilltop castles and fortresses that span a period of 1,000 years. Sailing down this section of the river is like being transported through the pages of a fairytale.

The Rhine abounds in myths and legends; folklore that has been passed on for generations, including the story of Lorelei. This enchanting woman was betrayed by her sweetheart and spent her days bewitching men. As her punishment, she was sent to a nunnery, however on her way she jumped to her death in the river. Legend has her spirit cast spells on sailors who passed the rock, where a bronze statue sits today.

Day 5: Mannheim

Accommodation
1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

Arrive in Mannheim early this morning. Known as a ‘chessboard city’ for its streets that were methodically laid out like a grid in the 17th century, as well as being home to some of the world’s most brilliant engineering minds, including Carl Benz, founder of Mercedes-Benz who set up his workshop in the city. Nearby, the city of Heidelberg is a truly romantic setting, with an 18th-century arch bridge that straddles the Necker River and a 16th-century ruined castle on the hillside looming above town.

Freechoice

Orientation Tour of Heidelberg with free time: From Mannheim, transfer by coach to Heidelberg. Enjoy a brief walking tour of Heidelberg, including the old town, and then enjoy ample free time to explore on your own. The walking tour is not too strenuous but there are some stairs and uneven ground.

Historical tour of Heidelberg: As well as a guided tour of Heidelberg, this excursion includes a visit to Heidelberg Castle, one of the most important Renaissance structures north of the Alps. Explore the courtyard, the balcony that offers an incredible view over the Old Town and view the great Heidelberg Tun, the world’s largest Wine Barrel located in the castle’s Cellar. Enjoy a short amount of free time before returning to your ship via coach. The walking tour is not too strenuous but there are some stairs and uneven ground.

Excursion to Bad Durkheim: From Mannheim, it’s a short drive through stunning vine-covered landscapes to Bad Durkheim. On arrival, visit Fitz Ritter, a 9th generation family-owned vineyard that offers exceptional quality wine. You can have the opportunity to taste some during your guided tour.

This afternoon your ship will cruise towards Rastatt, home to an elegant, perfectly proportioned Baroque palace, which will be the setting for tonight’s Scenic Enrich.

Enrich
Private classical concert at the Baroque Palace of Rastatt: One of the most magnificent historic venues in the region, this will be an evening of grandeur unlike any other. Travel to the palace by coach, where you receive a drink upon arrival and have time to explore the opulent palace and gardens, which was modelled on Versailles and took almost a decade to complete. The performance will take place on the second floor, and will feature accomplished musicians and a soloist.

(Please note that the private classical concert will be held at Bruchsal Palace on the following dates: June 27, July 18 and July 20)

Day 6: Rastatt

Accommodation
1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

This morning, wake in Rastatt. Enjoy a delicious, hearty breakfast in Crystal Dining before your excursion to Baden Baden, famous for its Roman baths. Located on the fringes of the Black Forest, this luxurious town was a favored summer escape during the Belle Epoque period of the 1870s and is World Heritage listed as part of the Great Spa Towns of Europe. It oozes relaxation,with tranquil green spaces, pretty public gardens, and grand historical architecture.

Freechoice

Walking Tour of Baden Baden: Walk in the steps of the upper class, who enjoyed this spa town as a summer retreat in the 19th century. See the elegant Kurhaus spa resort, built in the 1820s with a casino and luxury shopping in its colonnade, and explore the remains of Roman baths.

Spa Visit: What better way to enjoy the splendours of the town than relaxing and rejuvenating in the thermal baths of the Caracella Spa, permanently and naturally heated by thermal waters some 2,000 meters under the Earth’s surface. Comprising numerous baths, guests can soak in these waters said to possess healing properties, at your leisure.

Schloss Favorite: Originally built as a hunting lodge and summer palace for Margravine Sibylla Augusta, who ruled Baden-Baden in the early 18th century when her husband Louis William, margrave of Baden-Baden, died of a war injury. The palace was only used for several weeks each year, and houses a large collection of fine porcelain. It is the oldest of the German ‘porcelain palaces’ and the only one to survive intact to this day.

This afternoon, return to your ship for lunch and take the time to relax on board. Soak up the opulence of your suite, many of which have a window that converts into a Scenic Sun Lounge, allowing you uninterrupted views of the Rhine. If you feel like something more active after your morning in the spa town, head to the state-of-the-art gym for an invigorating workout.

Day 7: Kehl | Strasbourg

Accommodation
1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

Awake in the city of Kehl, the gateway to Strasbourg. It’s the capital city of the Alsace region, where sherbet-colored, half-timbered houses heave together on the banks of a complex network of canals. On its central island, the UNESCO-listed Grand Ile, is the Petite France district, so named for the 15th century hospital that was built here for patients suffering from syphilis, ‘the French disease’. It is also known as the Tanners’ Quarters, thanks to its medieval industries. Its meandering cobbled laneways are lined with a medley of buildings with shuttered windows and bright flowerboxes.

Freechoice

Active walking tour of Strasbourg: Enjoy a guided walking tour of the charming town of Strasbourg, seeing many of the most important sights of the city including the Cathedral, Petit France, the Grand Ile, and many half-timbered houses and beautiful canals. Strasbourg is located on the border of France and Germany and ownership of the town has changed hands many times between the two countries. Due to this, Strasbourg is a unique mixture of both French and German architecture and culture. Be driven to Strasbourg, passing many notable sites, including the European Parliament on your way.

Alsace Wine Region: The French Alsace region is a culturally diverse wine-growing area that shares its border with Germany and Switzerland. Guests will visit the village of Mittelbergheim, a member of the Les Plus Beaux Villages de France ('the most beautiful villages in France') association. In Mittelbergheim, guests will visit a local wine cellar for a tasting before visiting the town of Obernai. This enchanting town has retained its traditional character with medieval defences, fortified towers and half-timbered houses. You can have free time to explore at your own pace.

Cycle through Strasbourg: Hop on board an e-bike and explore the sights surrounding the city. Strasbourg has over 500 km of bicycle trails and you can explore some of these while cycling through the city’s charming suburbs past historic buildings beautiful parklands and charming canals.

Day 8: Huningue/Basel | Disembark

1 Breakfast

After a hearty breakfast, transfer to Basel airport for your onward or homebound flight.

Please book your flight to depart out of Basel after 10:00 AM.

This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to the terms and conditions.

Ship/Hotel

Scenic Crystal

Measuring 443 feet in length and carrying just 163 passengers, the luxury vessel, Scenic Crystal marries space and intimacy with a sense of exclusivity not regularly found on Europe’s waters. Couple this with a 1:3 crew to passenger ratio and guests can expect attentive service from the minute they step aboard these illustrious river cruise liners.

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

List View | Calendar View

Jul 14, 2025from $9,090
Aug 4, 2025from $9,090
Aug 25, 2025from $9,090

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29	30	1	2	3	4	5
6	7	8	9	10	11	12
13	14	15	16	17	18	19
20	21	22	23	24	25	26
27	28	29	30	31	1	2

Deal available

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Deals

Special Deals 27517: Book your Scenic Eclipse cruise for select 2025-2027 departures between April 1 - July 6, 2025, and enjoy 2-for-1 fare on your cruise pricing.

An additional bonus savings of up to $2000 per suite on select departures. Savings vary by departure.

Free air offers are also available based on suite category and destination when you pay in full 10 months before departure. If sailing is within 10 months, you can pay in full within 30 days to receive these offers or 120 days prior to departure - whichever is soonest. Bonus savings options are available instead of air with the same payment terms.

Bonus savings of up to $500 per person on select departures with non-refundable booking terms. Full payment is required within 48 hours of booking, with no exceptions. Code: NONREF

Single Supplement: A free single supplement is available on select departures. Full payment is required. Other departure dates may have a 45% single supplement. Single supplement offers do not apply to GP, OP, OT, SB, SA, S or P cabin categories.

Flexible Booking Plan allows you to defer your booking to an alternative date or cancel your journey until 120 days before departure. Enjoy a Future Travel Credit to use on an alternate tour/cruise, valid for 24 months. The offer is valued at $250 per person—no substitutions, no cash value.

Additional restrictions may apply. Please contact us for details.
Applies to select 2025-2027 Scenic Eclipse Cruises
Special Deals 27518: Book your Scenic River cruise for select 2025-2026 departures between April 1 - July 6, 2025, and enjoy 2-for-1 fare on your cruise pricing.

An additional bonus savings of up to $1,500 per suite on select departures. Savings vary by departure.

Free air offers are also available based on suite category and destination when you pay in full 10 months before departure. If sailing is within 10 months, you can pay in full within 30 days to receive these offers or 90 days prior to departure - whichever is soonest. Bonus savings options are available instead of air with the same payment terms.

Bonus savings of up to $500 per person on select departures with non-refundable booking terms. Full payment is required within 48 hours of booking, with no exceptions. Code: NONREF

Single Supplement: A free single supplement is available on select departures. Full payment is required. Other departure dates may have a 45% single supplement. Single supplement offers do not apply to RP, RR, RO, R, RA, RD, RS or RJ cabin categories.

Flexible Booking Plan allows you to defer your booking to an alternative date or cancel your journey until 90 days before departure. Enjoy a Future Travel Credit to use on an alternate tour/cruise, valid for 24 months. The offer is valued at $125 per person—no substitutions, no cash value.

Additional restrictions may apply. Please contact us for details.
Applies to select 2025-2026 Scenic River Cruises

Per person starting at

$9,090

Please confirm embark/disembark locations before reserving flights, as this itinerary operates in reverse on alternating departures.

Rates are subject to change without notice. Book early to get the best rate.

Select a Date

Standard Suite E

Dimensions: 160ft2. Standard Suites are located on the Jewel Deck with large picture windows to ensure a great view. They have a spacious design and clever layout alongside all the usual luxurious amenities and furnishings.

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Standard Suite D

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Balcony Suite C

Dimensions: 205ft2. Located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks these stylishly decorated suites feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive Scenic Sun Lounge and offer private bathrooms with a luxurious vanity basin and shower.

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Balcony Suite BA

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Single Balcony Suite BS

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Balcony Suite BB

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Deluxe Balcony Suite BD

Dimensions: 225ft2. Located in prime locations at the front of the ship on both the Sapphire and Diamond Decks, they offer all the features of the private Balcony Suites with the ingenious Scenic Sun Lounge, but with even more space to relax.

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Junior Balcony Suite BJ

Dimensions: 250ft2. These spacious Suites, located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks, have a private full-length balcony complete with a Scenic Sun Lounge and elegant en-suite bathrooms featuring a large vanity basin and shower.

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Balcony Suite A

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Balcony Suite PA

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Balcony Suite PP

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Deluxe Balcony Suite PD

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Junior Balcony Suite RJ

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Royal Balcony Suite RA

Dimensions: 315ft2. These Suites located on the Diamond Deck are the ultimate in luxury with more space, impeccable service, thoughtful touches, an outdoor balcony, lounge area, and an oversized bathroom.

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Royal Balcony Suite R

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Royal Panorama Suite RS

Dimensions: 325ft2. At 325ft², these are the largest suites on the ship. Located on the Diamond Deck, both suites enjoy fantastic views of the passing scenery from your private balcony complete with Scenic Sun Lounge. Each Suite has a lounge area and a luxurious bathroom.

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Royal Owner's Suite RO

Dimensions - 520ft2 including outdoor balcony. These Suites on the Diamond Deck are the ultimate in luxury with more space (315ft²), impeccable service, thoughtful touches, an outdoor balcony, lounge area, and an oversized bathroom.

Notes

All rates are quoted in USD and represent cost per person, based on double occupancy. Please contact us for the Single Supplement Rate.

Payment Details

Terms & Conditions

Operated by Scenic Cruises

Included

7 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 7 Dinners
7 Nights Accommodations
Accommodations as listed
Ground transportation as listed
Activities as listed
Meals as listed
Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
Wifi
Porterage
Port taxes and charges
All tipping and gratuities
Complimentary beverages

Excluded

Travel Insurance
Personal Expenses
Flight costs (please request a quote)
Additional excursions during free time
Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
Select drinks including a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, champagnes and spirits are not included in the package and may be available at an additional charge
Passport or Visa fees
All travel invoice risks. We strongly recommend you to take out comprehensive travel insurance with a reputable insurance company to cover you against risks associated with your tour. Including cover for loss of luggage, medical expense, and cost and expenses incurred due to cancellations, delays, or other disruptions

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The trip was terrific with great planning on your part. Most of the adventures were not mainstream and somewhat off the beaten path which made it especially enjoyable!! We felt taken care of and you all were readily available to respond to questions and issues. I would highly recommend your company and friends have already expressed interest based on our pictures and excitement.

Gale Cantor

Rhine Highlights

Full Itinerary

Day 1: Amsterdam | Embark

Day 2: Amsterdam

Day 3: Cologne

Day 4: Koblenz

Day 5: Mannheim

Day 6: Rastatt

Day 7: Kehl | Strasbourg

Day 8: Huningue/Basel | Disembark

Ship/Hotel

Scenic Crystal

Scenic Crystal

Dates & Prices

My Preferred Start Date

Deals

Notes

Map

Inquire

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