9 nights · Zurich, Switzerland · River cruise · Departs Basel (Switzerland) · Visiting Colmar, Baden-Baden, Rudesheim am Rhein, Cologne, Dordrecht, Amsterdam · Aboard Viva Cruises on the VIVA Inspire
Image courtesy of Viva Cruises ©
This river cruise sails the Rhine, departing Basel.
| Cruise line | Viva Cruises |
|---|---|
| Ship | VIVA Inspire |
| Duration | 9 nights |
| Port calls | 7 |
| Departures | 5 sailings |
| From fare | $5,600 per person |
| Year built | 2013 |
| Guests | 130 |
| Cabins | 67 |
| Crew | 39 |
| Length | 135 m |
| Beam | 12 m |
| Cruising speed | 12.0 kn |
Basel sits where Switzerland meets France and Germany, with the Rhine running through its centre. A short walk from the river leads to the red-sandstone Rathaus and Münster, whose terraces open across the rooftops. The city rewards unhurried exploring, from medieval lanes in the Old Town to galleries and renowned art collections. Cross the river by ferry, or use Basel’s efficient trams to reach museums, cafés and the lively Marktplatz.
Colmar rewards a day spent on foot, among Alsatian lanes, timber-framed houses and flower-lined canals. At Petite Venise, the Lauch River slips past pastel façades. Old-town cafés offer tarte flambée and wines from the surrounding Alsace vineyards. Inside the former convent of Unterlinden, the Isenheim Altarpiece makes a compelling stop for art lovers. Compact and easy to explore, Colmar pairs distinctive architecture with a genuine taste of Alsace.
At the edge of the Black Forest, Baden-Baden has drawn visitors to its thermal waters since Roman times. Its spa architecture and leafy promenades recall the grand European resort era. The Kurhaus and its celebrated casino anchor the town centre. Nearby, Lichtentaler Allee follows the Oos River past gardens and historic villas. Baden-Baden is one of UNESCO’s Great Spa Towns of Europe. Thermal baths, cafés and Black Forest trails are all close at hand.
Rüdesheim is a rewarding first stop on the Rhine, with vineyards climbing steep slopes above the water. It stands at the southern gateway to the UNESCO-listed Upper Middle Rhine Valley, famed for castles and dramatic river scenery. Explore the old lanes and Drosselgasse, then take the cable car through the vines to the Niederwald Monument. From its hilltop setting, the Rhine spreads below in a view worth lingering over.
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.
Dordrecht’s historic centre sits on an island where the Oude Maas, Noord and Beneden Merwede meet. The city received its charter in 1220 and grew rich on trade, leaving handsome merchant houses along its harbours. Walk past the leaning Grote Kerk, explore the Dordrechts Museum, then pause beside the water as working ships pass. For a change of scene, National Park De Biesbosch lies just beyond town, its waterways best explored by boat.
Amsterdam pairs world-class museums with the everyday pleasure of canal-side life. Its Golden Age houses, narrow waterways and lively markets make the city rewarding well beyond its famous sights. Visit the Rijksmuseum for Dutch masters, then explore the canal belt on foot or by boat. Leave time for a neighbourhood café: in Amsterdam, the best discoveries often come between the landmarks.
Published September 27, 2026
Last updated October 11, 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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