AmaWaterways wine cruises add a unique epicurean dimension to a variety of itineraries at no additional cost. Join one of these wine cruises with a special wine host and be treated to a menu of exclusive wine and culinary experiences designed to delve deeper into the wonderful flavors and tastes of Europe.
European cities transform into majestic winter wonderlands for the holiday season – and we invite you to experience all their splendor with us. In addition to our variety of daily excursions, you will also have the opportunity to visit festive Christmas Markets in select destinations and participate in nostalgic traditions.
Maximize your Christmas experience by embarking at the height of the holiday market season with daily or near-daily visits to Christmas Markets.
Get "just a taste" of the holidays in mid-November or late December with visits to one or two Christmas Markets during your river cruise.
We are pleased to offer guests the opportunity to experience Floriade in 2022 while sailing along the Rhine River and Dutch and Belgian Waterways between April 14 and October 9. Right outside Amsterdam, this rare experience calls for its visitors to “explore, touch and change” as part of their journey into Floriade – which is set to feature stunning gardens, innovative sustainable gardening exhibits, live entertainment, talk shows, souvenirs and food stalls.
We invite you to join our incredible cruise on the Rhône with a Latin Touch, featuring bilingual cruise managers, daily tours with Spanish-speaking guides, Latin-inspired music nights and other distinctive elements.
Explore the rich history of classical music along the Danube River where famous composers lived, worked and performed. Plus, be treated to a variety of live performances on this melodious journey.
Based on the overwhelmingly positive response received from the announcement of our first-ever “Soulful Experience” on the Rhône River in 2023, we are delighted to announce four new opportunities for guests to celebrate their heritage and discover Black history and culture along the rivers with us in 2024.
Join award-winning television host and travel expert, Samantha Brown, Godmother of AmaMagna, as we cruise through four countries along the Danube River. Special events and Travel Talks are included on this exclusive sailing.
Join Chef Joanne Weir, award-winning cookbook author, restaurant owner and host of PBS television series “Plates & Places” as she hosts a special 7-night Flavors of Burgundy river cruise.
We invite you to join our incredible cruise on the Danube with a Latin Touch, featuring bilingual cruise managers, daily tours with Spanish-speaking guides, Latin-inspired music nights and other distinctive elements.
Based on the overwhelmingly positive response received from the announcement of our first-ever “Soulful Experience” on the Rhône River in 2023, we are delighted to announce four new opportunities for guests to celebrate their heritage and discover Black history and culture along the rivers with us in 2025
Explore the rich history of classical and folkloric music along the Danube River where famous composers lived, worked and performed. Plus, be treated to a variety of live performances on this melodious journey.
Countries Visited: Austria, Hungary, Slovakia
Join award-winning television host and travel expert, Samantha Brown, Godmother of AmaMagna, as we cruise through five countries along the Danube River. Special events and Travel Talks are included on this exclusive sailing.
We invite our loyal past guests to join us once again on these special Loyalty Cruises, offering unique experiences in multiple ports, commemorative gifts, and many more surprises and delights.
Imagine if there was a way to combine luxury river cruising on the iconic Danube with the opportunity to indulge your passion and play golf. We have created the perfect package to enable you to do just that with our Exclusive Concierge Golf Program. Discover Europe, complete with award winning cuisine, incredible service and a choice of excursions in every port, as well as up to 5 rounds of golf at some of the leading championship courses on the continent.
AmaWaterways’ Exclusive Concierge Golf Program is available on select Magna on the Danube cruises sailing aboard the AmaMagna.
Hello! "I'm Kristin Karst, Co-Founder and Executive Vice President of AmaWaterways and I'm passionate about river cruising. Each month, I love to share with you my thoughts, personal stories, travel tips and latest news on the people and places that help turn every mile of our guests' river cruise experience into one of their most cherished memories!"
White Christmas Outside, Warm Market Inside
The festive Christmas Market held at Zürich’s busy Hauptbahnhof Train Station (aka Zürich’s Main Station) is one of the largest indoor Christmas markets in Europe. It may be a white Christmas and winter wonderland outside but keep cozy and warm in here – with 150 festively decorated market stalls to get in the yuletide spirit. The fragrant aroma of cinnamon, glühwein (mulled wine), glögg (another mulled wine), traditional tirggel biscuits (which have been enjoyed here since 1461), Christstollen fruit loaf and roasted almonds waft through the station, beckoning commuting travelers and shoppers alike. Find charming handmade gifts – including holiday ornaments, jewelry and handmade candles as you listen to Christmas carols. But of course, the big showstopper here is the 50-foot Christmas tree decorated with between 5,000-7,000 Swarovski crystals and ornaments.
Originating in 1994, this is one of Europe’s newer markets, kicking off with just a dozen stalls. While it has flourished in the relatively few years since its founding to 150 stalls, its location of the Hauptbahnhof station lends to an older, more established feel. Opened in 1871, this Neo-Renaissance masterpiece features an elegant triumphal arch at the main entrance and faces the dazzling Bahnhofstrasse. Richly decorated lobbies, atriums, restaurants, halls and a monumental fountain commemorating Swiss Alfred Escher – it is clear to see why it is listed in the Swiss Inventory of Cultural Property of National Significance – and is a must-see in its own right.
Stroll Down Christmas Lane
Of course, there are many other ways to celebrate Zürich’s holiday season. One of the favorites is strolling down the vibrant and exclusive Bahnhofstrasse. Zurich’s tantalizing shopping avenue is always at its most stunning when aglow for the holiday. Bahnhofstrasse, one of the most expensive and exquisite shopping avenues in the world, is on par with New York City’s 5th Avenue – and home to stores like Bvlgari, Hermés, Gucci and Louis Vuitton. Shopping here anytime is a special treat but during the holidays, the street becomes particularly magical. As if the bling in nearby Tiffany’s and Dior weren’t quite enough, 12,000 glittering LED lights are sure to keep the festive twinkle in shoppers’ eyes. The annual Santa Claus Parade also uses the Bahnhofstrasse as its festive route.
Explore the Christmas Village
The Wienachtsdorf is another one of Zürich’s popular holiday markets. Set in Old Town near the spectacular Opera House, the market caters to shoppers with 100 red market stalls, delicious foods and artisanal goodies. Look for incredible fondue chalets and intricate wooden ornaments to add a something cheery and bright to the festivities.
Experience the Singing Tree
The Christmas Market at Werdmühleplatz is Zürich’s newest market, distinguished by its unique "singing Christmas tree." Children circle this many-tiered stage, whichrises up in the shape of a tree, where kids line around and sing carols. This sweet and charming small market is sure to charm you.
Why Reserve Our Optional Land Packages in Zürich and Lucerne
Add bonus time in Switzerland to your Christmas Markets on the Rhine river cruise! Make the most of your international airfare and indulge your wanderlust by exploring these breathtaking cities. Whether you’re interested in Swiss cultural and holiday traditions, are a Swiss chocolate enthusiast or simply wish to extend your journey, this 4-night land package, which includes a highlights tour in Basel, is sure to inspire you.
What’s Included in Your Optional Land Package
Contact your preferred travel advisor to extend your Christmas Markets on the Rhine journey into Lucerne and Zürich today!