From Amsterdam to Basel: 25th Anniversary Viking River Cruise

Day 1

After arriving at the Amsterdam airport, we were warmly greeted by a Viking representative who transported us to the ship, an included service when you purchase your flights through Viking Air. We got settled into our room and had some free time to go out and explore Amsterdam. I recommend having a freshly made warm stroopwafel! Stroll along the canals, visit the Anne Frank House, and take a canal cruise—one of the best ways to see Amsterdam. To warm up, we enjoyed some light Spanish tapas and wine at La Oliva.

Amsterdam, The Netherlands

Day 2

Our ship made a quick stop in Rotterdam to pick up supplies, then we were off to Kinderdijk for a beautiful walk along windmill-lined dikes. We had the special pleasure to tour and go inside a working windmill. This was an exciting experience that we’ll remember! Later in the day onboard the ship, we had a fun and entertaining German lesson followed by a toast from our captain. What a wonderful way to begin our voyage!

Kinderdijk, The Netherlands

Day 3

We arrived in Zons, Germany, where we boarded a comfortable motorcoach to the city of Cologne. I recommend booking the “Top of Cologne” excursion for a once-in-a-lifetime view of the city from the top of the historic and Gothic Cologne Cathedral—you won’t regret it. We were there the week of Thanksgiving, which was also the beginning of the Christmas markets. What a treat! Though my husband may have been “Christmas-marketed out” by the end.

Cologne Cathedral, Germany

Cologne, Germany

Day 4

Our morning began a little early when we arrived in Braubach to take a motorcoach to the history city of Koblenz. After strolling the cobblestone streets, we returned to the ship and thoroughly enjoyed a scenic cruise along the middle Rhine, taking in multiple sights of castles while drinking warm Glühwein and cuddled up in blankets provided by the staff. It was pure luxury! The day was not over though—as we arrived in Rüdesheim, the Viking concierge onboard had arranged for a special anniversary dinner reservation for us, along with chocolates and sparkling wine waiting in our room on our return to the ship. It was a wonderful end to our amazing day! With such a full itinerary, you would think we would be exhausted, but it was truly a relaxing and wonderful experience.

The atrium (Viking Hlin)

Day 5

I haven’t mentioned the food onboard yet, but it is delicious! Every morning, you have the option of dining at Aquavit, with light fare options and a short menu, or in the restaurant with a buffet and made-to-order omelets or other options. We disembarked from the ship in Mannheim, where we were transported to Speyer, a beautiful old city full of history. You may also choose to visit the nearby city of Heidelberg, known for its university and science-focused industry.

The lounge (Viking Hlin)

Aquavit (Viking Hlin)

Day 6

Our ship arrived in Kehl, Germany, just across the border from Strasbourg, France. At this point, the Rhine separates the two countries, so you can see both as you cruise down the river. Strasbourg is a city like no other and part of the Alsace region—a cultural blend of Germany and France. This was one of our favorite towns to discover! The city comes alive with Christmas markets, canals, and beautiful architecture along cobblestone streets. It is like walking into a storybook! Definitely a city worth visiting again. Onboard our ship that evening, we enjoyed a fun game much like Family Feud, which we played with friends we had met along the way.

Strasbourg, France (Alsace)

Day 7

The Black Forest is a region where my ancestry originated, so this was a very special stop for me. We splurged on the all-day excursion and thoroughly enjoyed every part of our day. We took a hike through the Black Forest, participated in a hands-on cooking class with lunch included, and watched a cuckoo clock demonstration followed by a glass blowing presentation. We ended our day in the Black Forest by decorating a Black Forest cake and having a slice with coffee. It was heavenly!

Day 8

Sadly, our trip ended in Basel, Switzerland. We realized all too late that we should’ve extended our trip with a stay in Switzerland, but instead, we were whisked away with an included transport to the airport, where we began our journey home.

Viking is truly a luxury experience and exceeded our expectations. We made lasting friendships onboard, laughed a lot, enjoyed delicious food and wine (all included), and had the most fully relaxing cruise. Would we go again? In a heartbeat! In fact, if you book your next cruise while onboard, you’ll receive some wonderful incentives, including six-month final payment prior to sailing, discounts off of your next cruise, and sailing credit for your next cruise. These incentives are transferable to other Viking cruises should you change your mind on which sailing you would like after you disembark the ship.

For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our cruises page.