I am over the moon with excitement to share that I have been invited on an incredible 8-day journey through Europe next week! I will be sailing on the luxurious AmaPrima river cruise ship with top travel industry suppliers and agents as we explore classic destinations along the captivating Rhine River from the colorful canals of Amsterdam to the romantic old town of Düsseldorf.
Our adventure begins in Amsterdam, a city woven together by romantic bridges and winding canals. Before boarding the AmaPrima, I’ll have two days to take in the city’s creative spirit – glimpsing the narrow houses perched above the canal on a scenic cruise, visiting the secret annex of the courageous Anne Frank, experiencing the vibrant colors and scents of the tulip fields, wandering the quintessential Dutch village of Zaanse Schans and its impressive windmills, and even observing the city’s notorious Red Light District.
Our journey continues as we set sail to discover enchanting towns and cities along the Rhine. Our first stop is Cologne, Germany’s cultural hub, where I gaze in awe at the soaring twin spires of its UNESCO-listed Gothic cathedral before strolling through the charming old town with its traditional pubs and breweries. Gothic architecture, a delicate local beer, world-famous cologne perfume, decadent chocolate – sounds like a perfect city, doesn’t it?
Further along our route, we disembark to explore Cochem, a fairytale town nestled in the breathtaking Moselle valley and presided over by a magnificent 11th-century castle perched dramatically on a hilltop high above. Our next stop is Koblenz, a 2,000-year-old city at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers. Here I’ll stand in awe at the iconic Deutsches Eck (German Corner) monument and explore this walkable riverside town.
One of the undisputed highlights will be cruising through the spellbinding Rhine Gorge, a 65-kilometer stretch of the river where we’ll behold awe-inspiring vistas of lush vineyards creeping up steep terraced cliffs, over 40 medieval castles perched dramatically high on hilltops, quaint waterside towns, and formidable fortresses guarding this iconic landscape. They say the Gorge reveals a new breathtaking view around each bend and I’m pretty sure this stretch will most like be my favorite part of the journey.
Nestled in the Rhine Gorge, Rüdesheim, one of my favorite cities, charms visitors with its quaint half-timbered houses and cobbled lanes. This picturesque wine town comes alive with flowering vines and bustling plazas full of cafés in the summer. Take the cable car up to the Niederwald Monument for sweeping views of the river bend and vineyards below. I can’t wait to stroll the Drosselgasse and sample Rieslings and enjoy a Rüdesheim coffee.
Our last stop before returning to Amsterdam is Düsseldorf, renowned as a capital of fashion and art. I cannot wait to explore its elegant historic center and the lively Königsallee boulevard dubbed the “Champs-Élysées of Germany”, filled with boutique shops displaying the latest styles. I might even enjoy hoisting a locally-brewed ale at one of the convivial beer halls or cafés tucked along the old town’s riverside promenade under the shining spires of the historic St. Lambertus church.
This enriching river cruise is such an honor and privilege. I can’t wait to return with countless captivating stories and firsthand local knowledge to help craft unforgettable European journeys for our valued clients!
I want to extend a special invitation to experience my upcoming AmaWaterways cruise along the captivating Rhine virtually. Join me from the comfort of your inbox, without setting foot outside your door!
When I embark next week on the elegant AmaPrima, sailing through the Netherlands and Germany from vibrant Amsterdam to exquisite Düsseldorf, I’ll be documenting my journey through photos, videos, and daily email and facebook updates.
Sign up now to receive these exclusive front row seats to my European adventure. I’ll transport you right alongside me to uncover:
- Amsterdam’s winding canals and vibrant culture
- Majestic castles nestled in the romantic Rhine Gorge
- Charming riverside towns dotted with cobblestone streets and ornate architecture
- Germany’s timeless Christmas markets, bursting with seasonal cheer
- The rolling hillsides of Rhine wine country
- Iconic waterfronts in Cologne, Koblenz, and more
My personal travel diary emails are guaranteed to inspire, inform, delight – and may just give you a serious case of wanderlust! Don’t miss this special opportunity for an all-access pass into my trip.
Put your email in the comments below or email me at Sara@PlatinumTravelWI.com and I will add you to the list.
Bon voyage!
Sara is the owner of Platinum Travel and specializes in creating luxury, customized, stress free vacations for people who want to see the world and all things Disney.
She also owns Autism Friendly Vacations where she helps families who have a member on the Autism spectrum get the vacation they deserve. Visit AutismVacation.com for more information.
You can reach her at 414-377-8611 or Sara@PlatinumTravelWI.com to start planning your vacation today.
