Delight in the enchanting landscapes, iconic landmarks, and majestic mountains along the Rhine River with Our State and AmaWaterways Cruise Line as we cruise through four beautiful countries: the Netherlands, Germany, France, and Switzerland.
Our journey takes us past fairytale castles, historic vineyards, and picturesque villages as part of this spectacular Rhine River cruise. From our Chef’s Table Dinner experience on board the ship to our canal cruise in Amsterdam to the UNESCO-designated Rhine Gorge where 40 castles are strung like pearls along the riverbanks, this is a trip of a lifetime.
August 17 – 25, 2025
Package Includes:
- Round-trip airfare – Raleigh-Durham International (RDU).
- Seven-night cruise in a French balcony cabin. Upgrades available to veranda cabins.
- 19 regionally inspired meals: seven breakfasts, six lunches, and six dinners.
- Regional wines and beer with dinners.
- Cocktails included one hour before dinner each night.
- Private Our State welcome dinner at Chef’s Table Restaurant.
- Private Our State farewell cocktail reception.
- Private, exclusive Our State excursion that is not offered to other passengers.
- Choice of excursions at every port.
- Bicycle rentals aboard the ship.
- Fitness classes conducted by an onboard fitness instructor.
- Onboard entertainment featuring performances by local entertainers.
- Our State host.
Itinerary Highlights:
- Amsterdam canal cruise
- Private Chef’s Table Dinner experience on board the ship
- Cologne, Germany, guided tour through the enchanting Old Town
- UNESCO-designated Rhine Gorge where 40 castles are strung like pearls along the riverbanks
- Rüdesheim, winemaking hamlet
- Heidelberg, Germany, perfectly preserved medieval city nestled in the Neckar River Valley
- Strasbourg, France, stroll through its iconic “La Petite France” section of town
- Basel, Switzerland, an important university city and banking and trade center. Basel’s glorious past is still evident in its medieval town hall.
- Lucerne, Switzerland’s, Lion Monument
- Swiss Alps – stunning views
AmaVenita – Our ship.
Reminiscent of a classic ocean yacht, AmaVenita glides regally down Europe’s great rivers. Her tastefully refined staterooms are appointed with granite desks, marble bathrooms with soothing multi-jet showerheads, and most have refreshing twin-balcony staterooms so you can enjoy fresh air and scenic views.
The inviting Main Restaurant accommodates both those wishing to socialize and those seeking a more intimate meal. Dedicated wine tables for groups feature a veritable rainbow of patterns reflecting the diverse cruisers and cultures you’ll be introduced to on your cruise.
In addition to AmaWaterways’ signature exquisite, locally sourced cuisine, you’ll find a massage and hair salon, gift shop, specialty coffee station, walking track, heated pool, fitness room, and of course, a fleet of complimentary bikes to use ashore. Each night the stunning Main Lounge provides an exhilarating backdrop for enjoying performances by local entertainers.
Itinerary:
August 17
Depart RDU for an overnight flight to Amsterdam.
August 18 — Arrival in Amsterdam
Upon arrival in Amsterdam, you will be greeted by AmaWaterways’ representatives who will escort you to your transfer to the AmaVenita. Once onboard, take some time to acquaint yourself with the ship, meet fellow travelers, and enjoy a welcome drink and hors d’oeuvres. Later this evening, join the group for our private welcome dinner at the Chef’s Table Restaurant. (D)
August 19 — Amsterdam
There are 165 canals in Amsterdam, and you’ll get to enjoy some of them on your canal cruise. As you glide along the waterways, you’ll see the city from a different perspective. Amsterdam’s canals were built during the 17th century to enhance the city’s transportation and trade. Nowadays, they are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a favorite attraction for visitors to the city. The canal cruise will take you past some of Amsterdam’s most iconic landmarks, like the Anne Frank House, the Rijksmuseum, and the charming canal-side houses with their unique gables. You’ll also get to experience Amsterdam’s vibrant atmosphere as you pass by bustling cafes and restaurants. Later in the day, set sail out of Amsterdam. (B,L,D)
August 20 — Cologne
Enjoy cruising to Cologne, then join a guided tour through the enchanting Old Town, where you will see sites such as the Cologne Rathaus, Germany’s oldest town hall; the Fischmarkt, which dates back to the 12th century; and the Great St. Martin Church. End your city tour with a visit to a local tavern to taste its famous Kölsch beer. As an alternative, examine the historic architectural styles on display throughout the Cologne Cathedral during a guided tour. This 13th-century Gothic marvel and UNESCO World Heritage Site was the tallest building in the world at the time of its completion, and the church withstood 14 hits from aerial bombs during World War II. Active guests will want to join a guided bike ride along the Rhine and through the historic Stadtgarten. (B,L,D)
August 21 — Rhine Gorge and Rüdesheim
Cruise through the captivating UNESCO-designated Rhine Gorge, the most stunningly beautiful stretch of the river before reaching the winemaking town of Rüdesheim. Drink in the stunning views by soaring high above the vineyards with a gondola ride to the Niederwalddenkmal, then join a wine tasting to discover the flavors of the town’s iconic vineyards. For a more active adventure, hike through the town’s beautiful vineyards or join a guided bike tour along the scenic Rhine River. Later in the day, let Siegfried’s Mechanical Instrument Cabinet charm you with its remarkable collection of self-playing musical instruments or taste one of the town’s special delights, Rüdesheimer coffee, ceremoniously made with brandy, coffee, and whipped cream. (B,L,D)
August 22 — Ludwigshafen
Ludwigshafen is your gateway to a choice of four excursions. Visit Heidelberg, the perfectly preserved medieval city nestled in the Neckar River Valley along Germany’s Castle Road. Discover the iconic red sandstone Heidelberg Castle and Great Vat, an 18th-century, 49,000-gallon wine cask. For a more active adventure while in Heidelberg, join a guided hike up the Philosopher’s Path, aptly named during the Romantic Period, and enjoy panoramic views of the city. Alternatively, you can visit one of Germany’s oldest cities, Speyer, known for the largest Romanesque cathedral in Europe — a UNESCO World Heritage Site — and the medieval Old Gate, Altpörtel. Or pedal along the Neckar River to the picturesque medieval city center of Ladenburg and enjoy some free time to explore the shops. (B,L,D)
August 23 — Strasbourg
Strasbourg offers flavors of both France and Germany because of its borderline location. Enjoy a panoramic tour past the stunning Parc de l’Orangerie, the European Parliament, and the Place de la République before walking through its iconic “La Petite France” district, lifted straight from the pages of a fairy tale. Wander through charming streets past the Cathédrale de Nôtre Dame with its famous astronomical clock. Alternatively, take a guided bike ride through the city and Parc de l’Orangerie. (B,L,D)
August 24 — Basel
Enjoy getting to know Basel, Switzerland’s third largest city. An important university town and banking and trade center, Basel’s glorious past is still evident in its medieval town hall, richly decorated market square, and exquisite 18th-century patrician homes. Tour the city by foot or on a guided bike tour that takes you through three countries: Switzerland, France, and Germany. Alternatively, go on a full-day excursion to Lucerne, or opt for one of the morning excursions and visit Lucerne in the afternoon. With either Lucerne excursion, you’ll have the opportunity to see its Lion Monument – the figure of a dying lion carved into a hillside in memory of the Swiss Guards massacred during the French Revolution in 1792 – which Mark Twain described as “the most mournful and moving piece of stone in the world.” You’ll also see Lucerne’s spectacular medieval walls and towers, dating back to the 13th century. (B,L,D)
August 25
Today, our journey comes to an end. After breakfast, we will be transported to the airport to board the plane back to RDU. (B)
The Cost:
| Category | Description | Based on DBL OCC |
| SS | Suite – French Balcony & Outside Balcony, 300 sq. ft. | $9,299 |
| AA | French Balcony & Outside Balcony, 235 sq. ft. | $7,999 |
| AB | French Balcony & Outside Balcony, 235 sq. ft. | $7,799 |
| BA | French Balcony & Outside Balcony, 210 sq. ft. | $7,599 |
| BB | French Balcony & Outside Balcony, 210 sq. ft. | $7,299 |
| C | French Balcony, 170 sq. ft. | $6,699 |
Land Packages:
Two Nights Amsterdam (pre-cruise) $830 pp.
Three Night Lake Como (post-cruise) $1650 pp.
Pre- and Post-Cruise Extensions Available with Guided Tours
Take advantage of the optional pre- and post-cruise extensions, led by our experienced cruise director. The Our State host will only be joining you on the Post Cruise extension.
Amsterdam Pre-Cruise Extension
August 16
Arrive in Amsterdam and check into your hotel.
August 17
Follow your guide through the charming capital of the Netherlands, with its iconic meandering canals, bridges, and distinctive architecture. (B)
August 18
Check out of your hotel and before transferring to your ship, visit Zaanse Schans, observing life as it used to be lived in the Netherlands. Authentic windmills, houses, and shops were relocated to this picturesque area, creating a typical 17th- to 18th-century village. (B,D)
Lake Como Post- Cruise Extension
August 25
Disembark the ship and transfer to Lake Como, Italy, stopping in Bellinzona, Switzerland along the way, where you will enjoy a brief tour and free time for lunch. Once in breathtaking Lake Como, nestled at the foot of the Alps, check into your hotel for the evening. (B)
August 26
You will be treated to a walking tour of Lake Como, a former glacial lake and popular resort area for the rich and famous since Roman times. Gaze at the azure waters and impressive villas that line the lakeside from the hills above and perhaps recognize the scenery from such Hollywood blockbusters as Ocean’s Twelve and Casino Royale. (B)
August 27
Let the wind tousle your hair as you board your boat for a scenic ride along Lake Como to its stunning pearl, Bellagio. This intimate village offers postcard-perfect views whether you choose to stroll along the lakeside or venture uphill to its cobbled streets. Browse the shops or sample the local fare at Bellagio’s restaurants before returning to the boat. (B)
August 28
Bid farewell to Lake Como and prepare for your flight home. (B)
For reservations and more information:
Alex Kantor, CTA
AAA Travel
919-832-0543 ext: 16010
axkantor@acg.aaa.com
Rhine Castles and Swiss Alps River Cruise Registration Form
Additional Information:
What to expect on an Our State trip:
Traveling with a group of Our State readers is an enriching, enjoyable, and safe way to experience new cultures, people, and places. In addition to the informative narration from the tour director and local guides, an Our State host will be available to assist in making your trip successful.We usually fly to our destination, then travel by a comfortable motor coach with anywhere from 35 to 50 people who appreciate learning about new regions. Your entire trip will be guided, planned, and arranged for your upmost enjoyment. Many activities are things you can only do because you are traveling with Our State. There is some free time built in for you to explore on your own.You can also choose not to attend an activity if you prefer something different. Please let your tour director know if you are not coming on a scheduled day.Many meals are included. Where you have meals on your own, suggestions will be provided.Most of the motor coaches have restrooms but every effort will be made to make regular rest stops.One of the best parts of traveling with Our State is that you will meet new people, many of whom you will already have much in common with since most travelers read the magazine. Many guests often develop friendships that go on long after the tour is finished. Our State trips are generally filled with dynamic and friendly people.
Physical requirements:
Our tours are physically active but not meant to be strenuous.Please be aware you will be on your feet, walking and standing for much of the day, indoors and outdoors, in all weather conditions and terrains. There will also be extended time on the motor coach when we travel from place to place. If there are any mobility issues you will need to have an able-bodied traveling companion to accompany and assist you.Most days are moderately paced with approximately two to three total miles of walking, possibly including some hills and stairs.We regret that we’re unable to provide individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other personal needs. The responsibility of the Trip Director who accompanies your trip is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest. Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it.If you have additional questions, please call Our State’s Travel Director Amy Wood Pasquini at 336-286-0600, or email apasquini@ourstate.com.
