River cruising is one of the most relaxing and scenic ways to explore Europe—and in July 2025, our very own Kate set sail with AmaWaterways from Amsterdam to Basel. From medieval towns and local delicacies to slow mornings watching castle-lined riverbanks drift by, this trip had it all. Here's a first-hand look at what made this journey so special, along with Kate’s top travel tips.

Kate recommends arriving a few days early in Amsterdam before your cruise departs—especially now that the city has limited how many ships can dock in the centre. Staying nearby in the picturesque 9 Streets (De 9 Straatjes) area gives you access to gorgeous canals, boutique shopping, and charming cafés.

Where she stayed: NH City Centre
Must-eat: d'Vijff Vlieghen – a 17th-century restaurant full of history, antiques, and even the original Hans Egstorf Bakkerij (for your first taste of stroopwafel).

Onboard the AmaWaterways Experience

Kate stayed in a Category BB cabin — with both a French balcony and an exterior one, perfect for relaxing and watching the river drift by, rain or shine.

Expect:

• Daily excursions (walking tours, hikes, cycling)
• Wellness options (stretch classes, yoga, even a plunge pool!)
• Wine tastings, scenic rooftop mornings, and plenty of delicious food
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Favourite Stops Along the Way

Dusseldorf & Cologne
Taste local brews like Altbier and Kolsch, sip Killepitsch from a tiny window bar, and marvel at Cologne’s famous cathedral.

Rüdesheim
Cruise along Castle Alley, enjoy a wine tasting, and ride a gondola through the vineyards. Don’t miss the Rüdesheimer Coffee!

Strasbourg
A delicious mix of French and German heritage. Kate recommends the Tarte Flambée with Gewurztraminer and finding eclairs from a local patisserie.

Colmar
This fairytale town looks like a movie set. Wander the cobbled streets, explore La Petite Venise, and browse the covered market for local eats.

Speyer
A hidden gem with Romanesque architecture, fewer tourists, and plenty of local spritzers to sample.

Final Stop: Basel + A Handy Train Tip

Kate’s cruise ended in Basel, where she transferred directly to the airport via train—already checked in and ready to go.

Pro tip: Book your train to Zurich Airport through Swiss Airlines for seamless integration into your flight check-in.

Kate’s Top Travel Tips:

• 🧳 Arrive in Amsterdam a few days early
• 🍷 Choose excursions that match your pace (there’s always an “active” and “gentle” version)
• 🌿 Don’t skip the wellness offerings—plunge pool = underrated gem
• 🍴 Explore with your tastebuds: food & drink are a huge part of this journey!

Inspired to plan your own river cruise?

Chat to Kate or one of our travel experts at Toowoomba Cruise & Travel today.