7 nights · Koln, Germany North Rhine-Westphalia · River cruise · Departs Cologne (Germany) · Visiting Willemstad NL, Ghent, Middelburg, Brussels, Gorinchem, Emmerich am Rhein · Aboard A Rosa Cruises on the Arosa Aqua
Image courtesy of A Rosa Cruises ©
This river cruise sails the Rhine and Scheldt, departing Cologne.
| Cruise line | A Rosa Cruises |
|---|---|
| Ship | Arosa Aqua |
| Duration | 7 nights |
| Port calls | 7 |
| Departures | 2 sailings |
| From fare | $1,631 per person |
| Year built | 2009 |
| Guests | 202 |
| Cabins | 99 |
| Crew | 54 |
| Length | 135 m |
| Beam | 11 m |
| Cruising speed | 12.0 kn |
Cologne announces itself from the Rhine with the soaring twin spires of its Gothic cathedral. Step ashore to explore a compact old town, Roman remains, and museums holding major works of art. The cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, anchors the city centre. Enjoy Kölsch in a traditional brewery, then cross the river for a view of the skyline.
Willemstad is a small historic port in North Brabant, set beside the Hollands Diep. Its star-shaped fortifications, laid out in the seventeenth century, still define the compact centre. Follow the ramparts for broad water views, then turn into quiet lanes lined with brick houses. The octagonal Koepelkerk, completed in 1607, is among the Netherlands’ earliest purpose-built Protestant churches. Nearby, the Mauritshuis recalls the town’s links to the House of Orange.
Step ashore in Ghent and find a Flemish city that feels lived-in, not preserved for show. Canals frame guildhalls and Gothic towers, while cafés keep the historic centre in motion. At the Graslei, old warehouses line the Leie; nearby, St Bavo’s Cathedral holds the celebrated Ghent Altarpiece. Visit Gravensteen, a 12th-century castle, then explore the lanes on foot. Compact and rewarding, Ghent offers art, architecture and an easy taste of Belgian life.
Middelburg is Zeeland’s compact, handsome capital, where medieval lanes and quiet canals meet a proud maritime past. The city grew wealthy through trade, and its role in the Dutch East India Company left an enduring mark. Begin at the Abbey, a historic complex still central to civic life. Climb the Lange Jan for views across red roofs and Zeeland’s flat, green countryside. On the market square, cafés and landmark façades invite a pause between museums, shops and canal-side walks.
Brussels rewards visitors who look beyond its reputation as Europe’s political capital. At the Grand-Place, gilded guildhalls frame one of the continent’s most beautiful squares. Nearby, the Magritte Museum reveals the Belgian surrealist’s wit, while Art Nouveau façades reward an unhurried walk. Make time for lunch: moules-frites, crisp Belgian fries, or a freshly made waffle. The city’s cafés and chocolate makers offer good reason to linger between sights.
At the meeting of the Merwede and Linge, Gorinchem keeps its history close to the water. Walk the broad ramparts of its star-shaped fortress, then follow quiet lanes to the old harbour. The Dalempoort, one of the town’s surviving gates, and the Grote Kerk reward a slower look. Gorinchem’s fortifications form part of the UNESCO-listed Dutch Water Defence Lines. Nearby Loevestein Castle makes a memorable excursion.
Emmerich lies on the Lower Rhine, close to the Dutch border, where river traffic remains part of everyday life. Walk the waterfront promenade for open views of passing barges and the Emmerich Rhine Bridge, Germany’s longest cable-stayed bridge. In the old town, St. Martini’s Romanesque crypt and treasury reward a closer look. This is a port for unhurried riverside wandering, with the Netherlands within easy reach.
Cologne announces itself from the Rhine with the soaring twin spires of its Gothic cathedral. Step ashore to explore a compact old town, Roman remains, and museums holding major works of art. The cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site, anchors the city centre. Enjoy Kölsch in a traditional brewery, then cross the river for a view of the skyline.
Published September 9, 2026
Last updated October 18, 2026
Author: J. Richard
Good to know: Prices are quoted per person based on double occupancy and include all applicable taxes and fees. Availability and prices can change quickly, so please continue through the booking process to confirm the latest availability and pricing before you pay.
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