A new cruise itinerary combining river and sea travel offers an immersive 22-day journey from Amsterdam to Istanbul, highlighting numerous historical sites and cultural experiences across Europe’s heartland and Mediterranean coast. The trip, arranged by My Cruises, merges a Rhine River cruise with a luxury ocean expedition, visiting major cities and UNESCO World Heritage sites along the way.
The journey begins in Amsterdam with a one-night stay at a luxury hotel, followed by boarding an Avalon Waterways vessel for the river segment. Passengers remain docked overnight in Amsterdam to explore the city, with complimentary bicycles available to navigate the iconic canals. From there, the cruise proceeds along the Rhine River into Germany, stopping first at Cologne. The city, known for its Gothic cathedral—a UNESCO World Heritage site whose construction spanned over six centuries—also offers traditional brewery visits and thermal baths.
Continuing downriver, the route passes through the scenic Rhine Gorge, a 65-kilometer stretch famed for its vineyards, historic towns, and castles perched atop hillsides. A full day is scheduled in Heidelberg, where travelers can explore the Old Town, visit the Renaissance palace ruins, and sample local cuisine such as Spätzle. Additional stops include the historic towns of Strasbourg and Breisach before disembarking in Basel, Switzerland.
From Basel, participants take a flight to Rome for a two-night stay, giving them time to enjoy Italian culture, cuisine, and the city’s renowned monuments. Following Rome, the itinerary transitions to an ocean segment aboard the adults-only Oceania Sirena, equipped with multiple dining venues, bars, a pool, spa facilities, and a sports deck.
The ocean cruise begins with a visit to Salerno on Italy’s Amalfi Coast, where passengers can relax on beaches or explore the town. Next, it calls at Sicily, stopping in Messina and Syracuse, the latter an ancient city originally founded by Greeks. The route continues through the Greek islands and mainland ports, including Mykonos, where guests have a full day to explore the characteristic whitewashed architecture and vibrant streets.
The final leg of the voyage crosses into Türkiye, stopping at Canakkale, the gateway to the ancient city of Troy. The journey concludes with a two-night hotel stay in Istanbul. Highlights of the city tour include the Blue Mosque and Grand Bazaar, with an optional visit to a traditional Turkish bathhouse offering a restorative end to the extensive travel itinerary.
Throughout the cruise, passengers enjoy all-inclusive, regionally inspired dining paired with local wines and beers, alongside onboard amenities such as a rooftop whirlpool and live music to unwind after sightseeing. The combination of river and ocean cruising invites travelers to experience a diverse range of landscapes, histories, and cultures with the convenience of a single accommodation that moves alongside them.