Experience the deep-rooted holiday traditions of Europe at its most festive time of year and get caught up in the magic of the holidays with visits to some of the world’s most timeless Christmas Markets. Warm up with a mug of steamy glühwein while at the Cologne Christmas Market located in front of its UNESCO-designated Gothic cathedral. Let the "Capital of Noël," Strasbourg, the oldest and largest Christmas Market in France, captivate you the way it has for so many others for centuries. Meander through Heidelberg’s majestic Christmas Market nestled idyllically amongst the historic squares of the Old Town. And while in Gengenbach, marvel at the world’s largest Advent calendar, where every evening at 6:00 PM, the brightly lit windows of the neo-classical town hall open and behind each one is a picture by a famous artist, such as Andy Warhol. Cherish all the glory of the season in grand European style as you cruise along the Rhine.
Experience the deep-rooted holiday traditions of Europe at its most festive time of year. From the iconic canals of Amsterdam to Switzerland’s glittery cities, Lucerne and Zurich, get caught up in the magic of the holidays with visits to some of the world’s most timeless Christmas Markets. Warm up with a mug of steamy glühwein while at the Cologne Christmas Market located in front of its UNESCO-designated Gothic cathedral. Let the "Capital of Noël," Strasbourg, the oldest and largest Christmas Market in France, captivate you the way it has for so many others for centuries. Meander through Heidelberg’s majestic Christmas Market nestled idyllically amongst the historic squares of the Old Town. And while in Gengenbach, marvel at the world’s largest Advent calendar, where every evening at 6:00 PM, the brightly lit windows of the neo-classical town hall open and behind each one is a picture by a famous artist, such as Andy Warhol. Cherish all the glory of the season in grand European style as you cruise along the Rhine.
COUNTRIES:
France, Germany, Netherlands, SwitzerlandFrance, Germany, Netherlands, Switzerland
RIVERS:
Rhine
Christmas Markets on the Rhine
At A Glance
On our river cruises, you will enjoy an extensive lineup of included tours. In many cases, you will have a choice of excursions, such as standard tours, bike tours, hikes and Special Interest Tours. We always include a large variety of activities so that you can choose how you want to explore. No matter your preference, your days will be full of discovery and wonder.
| Day 1 | Amsterdam | EMBARKATION |
|
Board the ship in Amsterdam for your Christmas Markets on the Rhine cruise. (D)
| Day 2 | Amsterdam | Canal cruise |
|
| | Scenic cruising out of Amsterdam |
|
There are 165 canals in Amsterdam, and you’ll get to enjoy some of them on your canal cruise. Later in the day, set sail out of Amsterdam. (B,L,D)
| Day 3 | Cologne | Cologne Walking Tour, Cathedral Visit and Christmas Markets |
|
Enjoy cruising to Cologne, home to one of Germany’s most revered Gothic
masterpieces, the Cologne Cathedral. Join a guided tour through the enchanting Old Town. Explore the UNESCO-designated cathedral and then visit one of Europe’s largest and most renowned Christmas Markets located in
front of the cathedral. Alternatively, ride a bike along the Rhine or visit a local tavern to taste Cologne’s traditional
Kölsch beer and reibekuchen mit apfelmus—potato pancakes served with applesauce. (B,L,D)
| Day 4 | Rhine Gorge | Castles along the Rhine scenic cruising |
|
| Rüdesheim | Wine Tasting and Christmas Markets |
|
| | OR Gondola Ride and Christmas Market |
|
| | OR Guided Bike Tour of the Rheingau and Christmas Markets |
|
| | Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Museum |
|
Cruise through the castle-laden Rhine River Gorge before reaching the winemaking town of Rüdesheim. Once in Rüdesheim, you will have four choices of morning excursions. Wine connoisseurs will want to go to a wine cellar for a wine tasting followed by a Christmas Market visit to enjoy holiday traditions from around the world. Or go on a hike through the vineyards. Alternatively, you can take a peaceful ride over the vineyards on Rüdesheim’s gondola followed by a visit to the Christmas Market. You may also opt to join a guided bike tour through the town and along the Rhine River before visiting the Christmas Market. Later in the day, you can visit Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum, or taste one of the town’s special delights, Rüdesheimer coffee. (B,L,D)
| Day 5 | Ludwigshafen | Heidelberg Tour and Christmas Markets |
|
| | OR Medieval Speyer and Christmas Markets |
|
| | OR Heidelberg Philosopher’s Path Hike and Christmas Markets |
|
You have the choice to explore two of Germany’s historically rich cities, along with their festive Christmas Markets. Visit Heidelberg, a city that will capture your heart with its mighty castle and historic university. While here, wander along one of Europe’s longest pedestrian shopping streets, the Hauptstrasse, soaking up the Yuletide celebrations at the town’s Christmas Markets. Or hike along the Neckar River on the historic Philosopher’s Path followed by free time to enjoy the Christmas Markets. Alternatively, you can bike along the Neckar River to the medieval town of Ladenburg and visit its Marktplatz, or explore one of Germany’s oldest cities, Speyer, known for the largest Romanesque cathedral in Europe—a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll also have time to visit its Christmas Market in front of the “Old Mint” (Alten Münze) in the famous Maximilianstrasse, with a view of the romantic Imperial cathedral (Kaiserdom). (B,L,D)
| Day 6 | Strasbourg | “The Gem of the Alsace” tour and Christmas Market |
|
Strasbourg is even more alluring during the season of Advent. The Christkindelsmärik dates back to 1570, making it the oldest Christmas Market in France. Enjoy a panoramic bus tour that takes you past the Parc de l’Orangerie, the European Parliament and the Place de la Republique. Afterwards, walk through the historic town center on the Grande Île, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and through the lovely “La Petite France” district, where you will see the Cathédrale de Nôtre Dame with its famous astronomical clock and then visit the town’s famous Christmas Market. You can also choose to explore Strasbourg’s different districts by bicycle. Later in the day, opt to visit Gengenbach’s Christmas Markets and the town’s famous illuminated town hall Advent calendar. (B,L,D)
| Day 7 | Breisach | Riquewihr Excursion and Christmas Markets |
|
| Basel | OR Freiburg Excursion and Christmas Markets |
|
| Breisach | OR Breisach Wine Country Bike Tour |
|
Breisach is your gateway to several different excursions. Step back in time with a visit to the enchanting Alsatian town of Riquewihr, which looks almost the same as it did in the 16th century. On your walking tour, admire historic architecture and famous sights, such as the Dolder Gate, followed by a visit to its charming Christmas Markets. Alternatively, head to Freiburg, founded in 1120 and home to the Freiburg’s Münster, a Gothic cathedral said to have “the most beautiful spire on earth.” Then enjoy free time at the Freiburg Christmas Markets. Those wishing a more active excursion can cycle through Breisach’s countryside. (B,L,D)
Disembark the ship and bid farewell to Basel as you prepare for your return flight home. (B)
Embark the ship in Basel. Tonight, meet your fellow passengers on board. (D)
| Day 2 | Breisach | Riquewihr walking tour and Christmas Market |
|
| | OR Freiburg excursion with Christmas Market |
|
| | OR Breisach wine country bike tour |
|
Visit the enchanting Alsatian town of Riquewihr beautifully dressed in her holiday finery with twinkling decorations and a lively Christmas Market. On your walking tour, admire historical architecture, as well as famous sights, such as the Dolder Gate. Alternatively, you may wish to visit Freiburg, founded in 1120, and home to Freiburg’s Münster, a Gothic cathedral constructed of red sandstone, as well as its enchanting Christmas Market. (B,L,D)
| Day 3 | Strasbourg | “The Gem of the Alsace” tour and Christmas Market |
|
Strasbourg is even more alluring during the season of Advent. The Christkindelsmärik dates back to 1570, making it the oldest Christmas Market in France. Enjoy a panoramic bus tour that takes you past the Parc de l’Orangerie, the European Parliament and the Place de la Republique. Afterwards, walk through the historic town center on the Grande Île, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and through the lovely “La Petite France” district, where you will see the Cathédrale de Nôtre Dame with its famous astronomical clock and then visit the town’s famous Christmas Market. You can also choose to explore Strasbourg's different districts by bicycle. During the afternoon, visit Gengenbach Christmas Market where every year the locals countdown to Christmas with a 24-day, larger-than-life Advent calendar. (B,L,D)
| Day 4 | Ludwigshafen | Heidelberg tour and Christmas Markets |
|
| | OR Medieval Speyer and Christmas Markets |
|
| Rüdesheim | Rüdesheimer Wine tasting |
|
You have the choice to explore two of Germany's historically rich cities, along with their festive Christmas Markets. Visit Heidelberg, a city that will capture your heart with its mighty castle and historic university. While here, wander along one of Europe’s longest pedestrian shopping streets, the Hauptstrasse, soaking up the Yuletide celebrations at the town’s Christmas Markets. Alternatively, you can explore one of Germany’s oldest cities, Speyer, known for the largest Romanesque cathedral in Europe—a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You'll also have time to visit its Christmas Market in front of the “Old Mint” (Alten Münze) in the famous Maximilianstrasse, with a view of the romantic imperial cathedral (Kaiserdom). Later in the day, sail to Rüdesheim where you can taste local wine or taste one of the town’s special delights, Rüdesheimer Coffee, ceremoniously made with brandy. (B,L,D)
| Day 5 | Rüdesheim | Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Museum & Christmas Markets |
|
| | OR Gondola ride & Christmas Markets |
|
| | OR Rüdesheim Vineyards Hike |
|
| | OR Guided bike tour of the Rheingau |
|
| Rhine Gorge | Cruise the castles of the Rhine Gorge |
|
| Lahnstein | Burg Lahneck Tour |
|
Your exploration of Rüdesheim continues with your choice of excursions. Visit Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum or take a gondola ride to the Niederwalddenkmal Statue, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the river. Afterwards, indulge your taste buds with a sampling of Riesling wines in the vineyards. Alternatively, you can join a guided bike ride through the town and along the Rhine River to Schloss Johannisberg; or hike through the town’s beautiful vineyards. During the afternoon, set sail along the scenic Rhine River Gorge with its fabled legends and many castles. (B,L,D)
| Day 6 | Cologne | “Holy City” tour with cathedral and Christmas Market |
|
| | OR Guided bike tour of Cologne |
|
Join a guided tour through the enchanting Old Town. Explore the UNESCO-designated cathedral and then visit one of Europe’s largest and most renowned Christmas Markets located in front of the cathedral. Alternatively, ride a bike along the Rhine and through the historic Stadtgarten; or visit a local tavern to taste Cologne’s traditional Kölsch beer and Reibekuchen—potato pancakes served with apple sauce. (B,L,D)
| Day 7 | Amsterdam | Scenic Cruising into Amsterdam |
|
Cruise the iconic canals of Amsterdam, considered the “Venice of the North” and admire the historic architecture along the way. Then, taste local specialties at one of Amsterdam’s grand cafés. Please note that an alternative tour will depend on docking location. (B,L,D)
| Day 8 | Amsterdam | DISEMBARKATION |
|
Bid Farewell to Amsterdam and prepare for your homeward flight. (B)
| Day 1 | Amsterdam | Hotel check-in |
|
Arrive in Amsterdam and check into your hotel.
| Day 2 | Amsterdam | Walking tour |
|
Follow your guide through the charming capital of the Netherlands, with its iconic meandering canals, bridges and distinctive architecture. (B)
| Day 3 | Amsterdam | Zaanse Schans visit |
|
Check out of your hotel and, before transferring to your ship, visit Zaanse Schans to observe life as it used to be in the Netherlands. Authentic windmills, houses and ships were relocated to this picturesque area, creating a typical 17th- to 18th-century village. (B,D)
| Day 4 | Amsterdam | Canal cruise |
|
| | Scenic cruising out of Amsterdam |
|
There are 165 canals in Amsterdam, and you’ll get to enjoy some of them on your canal cruise. Later in the day, set sail out of Amsterdam. (B,L,D)
| Day 5 | Cologne | Cologne Walking Tour, Cathedral Visit and Christmas Markets |
|
Enjoy cruising to Cologne, home to one of Germany’s most revered Gothic
masterpieces, the Cologne Cathedral. Join a guided tour through the enchanting Old Town. Explore the UNESCO-designated cathedral and then visit one of Europe’s largest and most renowned Christmas Markets located in
front of the cathedral. Alternatively, ride a bike along the Rhine or visit a local tavern to taste Cologne’s traditional
Kölsch beer and reibekuchen mit apfelmus—potato pancakes served with applesauce. (B,L,D)
| Day 6 | Rhine Gorge | Castles along the Rhine scenic cruising |
|
| Rüdesheim | Wine Tasting and Christmas Markets |
|
| | OR Gondola Ride and Christmas Market |
|
| | OR Guided Bike Tour of the Rheingau and Christmas Markets |
|
| | Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Museum |
|
Cruise through the castle-laden Rhine River Gorge before reaching the winemaking town of Rüdesheim. Once in Rüdesheim, you will have four choices of morning excursions. Wine connoisseurs will want to go to a wine cellar for a wine tasting followed by a Christmas Market visit to enjoy holiday traditions from around the world. Or go on a hike through the vineyards. Alternatively, you can take a peaceful ride over the vineyards on Rüdesheim’s gondola followed by a visit to the Christmas Market. You may also opt to join a guided bike tour through the town and along the Rhine River before visiting the Christmas Market. Later in the day, you can visit Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum, or taste one of the town’s special delights, Rüdesheimer coffee. (B,L,D)
| Day 7 | Ludwigshafen | Heidelberg Tour and Christmas Markets |
|
| | OR Medieval Speyer and Christmas Markets |
|
| | OR Heidelberg Philosopher’s Path Hike and Christmas Markets |
|
You have the choice to explore two of Germany’s historically rich cities, along with their festive Christmas Markets. Visit Heidelberg, a city that will capture your heart with its mighty castle and historic university. While here, wander along one of Europe’s longest pedestrian shopping streets, the Hauptstrasse, soaking up the Yuletide celebrations at the town’s Christmas Markets. Or hike along the Neckar River on the historic Philosopher’s Path followed by free time to enjoy the Christmas Markets. Alternatively, you can bike along the Neckar River to the medieval town of Ladenburg and visit its Marktplatz, or explore one of Germany’s oldest cities, Speyer, known for the largest Romanesque cathedral in Europe—a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll also have time to visit its Christmas Market in front of the “Old Mint” (Alten Münze) in the famous Maximilianstrasse, with a view of the romantic Imperial cathedral (Kaiserdom). (B,L,D)
| Day 8 | Strasbourg | “The Gem of the Alsace” tour and Christmas Market |
|
Strasbourg is even more alluring during the season of Advent. The Christkindelsmärik dates back to 1570, making it the oldest Christmas Market in France. Enjoy a panoramic bus tour that takes you past the Parc de l’Orangerie, the European Parliament and the Place de la Republique. Afterwards, walk through the historic town center on the Grande Île, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and through the lovely “La Petite France” district, where you will see the Cathédrale de Nôtre Dame with its famous astronomical clock and then visit the town’s famous Christmas Market. You can also choose to explore Strasbourg’s different districts by bicycle. Later in the day, opt to visit Gengenbach’s Christmas Markets and the town’s famous illuminated town hall Advent calendar. (B,L,D)
| Day 9 | Breisach | Riquewihr Excursion and Christmas Markets |
|
| Basel | OR Freiburg Excursion and Christmas Markets |
|
| Breisach | OR Breisach Wine Country Bike Tour |
|
Breisach is your gateway to several different excursions. Step back in time with a visit to the enchanting Alsatian town of Riquewihr, which looks almost the same as it did in the 16th century. On your walking tour, admire historic architecture and famous sights, such as the Dolder Gate, followed by a visit to its charming Christmas Markets. Alternatively, head to Freiburg, founded in 1120 and home to the Freiburg’s Münster, a Gothic cathedral said to have “the most beautiful spire on earth.” Then enjoy free time at the Freiburg Christmas Markets. Those wishing a more active excursion can cycle through Breisach’s countryside. (B,L,D)
| Day 10 | Basel | DISEMBARKATION |
|
| Lucerne | Lucerne Walking Tour |
|
Disembark the ship and, before transferring to Lucerne, go on a highlights tour of Basel. Once in Lucerne, go on a walking tour along its cobblestone streets, spotting the Chapel Bridge, one of the oldest wooden bridges in Europe. Later, check into your hotel and enjoy a leisurely evening. (B)
| Day 11 | Lucerne | Lion Monument and Medieval City Walls |
|
Discover Lucerne's unrivaled beauty on a walking tour that includes the Lion Monument, beautifully carved into rock in memory of the Swiss Guards massacred during the French Revolution. (B)
| Day 12 | Lucerne | Lucerne Lake Cruise and Scenic Drive to Zurich |
|
Check out of your hotel and, before transfer via motorcoach to Zurich, enjoy a scenic lake cruise. Once in Zurich, check into your hotel. (B)
| Day 13 | Zurich | “Little Big City” tour |
|
Switzerland’s largest city seamlessly blends its historic past with its progressive future—all of which will be on full display during your city tour. One of the top experiences in Zurich is a visit to Old Town where you will find yourself amongst medieval houses, churches and the modern Bahnhofstrasse. (B)
| Day 14 | Zurich | Return flight home |
|
After breakfast, bid farewell to Switzerland and prepare for your return flight home. (B)
| Day 1 | Zurich | Transfer to hotel |
|
Arrive in Zurich and check-in to your hotel.
| Day 2 | Zurich | “Little Big City” tour |
|
Set alongside a gleaming lake and framed by the Alps, Zurich seamlessly blends its historic past with its progressive future—all of which will be on full display during your city tour. See Grossmünster Abbey; St. Peter, which boasts the world’s largest church clock face; Old Town; Town Hall; and Fraumünster Abbey. Experience the magic of Zurich dressed in her holiday best. Visit Zurich’s Christmas Markets, including the largest indoor Christmas Market in Europe located in Zurich's Main Train Station. An absolute highlight is a 50-foot-tall Christmas tree decorated with thousands of sparkling Swarovski crystals. (B)
| Day 3 | Lucerne | Transfer to Lucerne & Lucerne Lake Cruise |
|
Check out of your hotel for a scenic drive past three lakes before reaching Vitznau. Upon arrival, enjoy a cruise across the tranquil waters of Lake Lucerne. Afterwards, check into your hotel. (B)
| Day 4 | Lucerne | Walking tour, Lion Monument, the medieval city walls and Christmas
Markets |
|
Take a walking tour of Lucerne soaking up the festive atmosphere of this medieval gem. The iconic Lion Monument, which you’ll visit was sculpted in memory for the Swiss Guards massacred during the French Revolution in 1792. It has captured the hearts and minds of visitors for centuries, including Mark Twain who praised it as “the most mournful and moving piece of stone in the world.” You’ll also visit the spectacular medieval walls and towers, dating back to the 13th century. Located around the Musegg Wall area, the towers rise high over the city, giving great panoramic views of Lucerne, the Reuss River and the surrounding mountain scenery. There are a total of nine towers, including one featuring the oldest clock in the city. Afterwards, soak up the festive atmosphere of this medieval gem wandering through its Christmas Market located at the Franziskanerplatz and enjoy the festive atmosphere with a mug of holiday cheer, glühwein. (B)
| Day 5 | Lucerne | Basel Transfer & Basel City Tour |
|
Check out of your hotel and head to Basel. Before boarding the ship, you’ll go on a highlights tour of the city. One of Switzerland’s most cosmopolitan cities, Basel is home to 40 museums (the highest concentration in the nation), a picturesque Old Town and richly decorated Market Square, a 500-year-old Rathaus (town hall) and Switzerland’s oldest zoo (built in 1870 and home to 600 animal species and exotic flora). (B,D)
| Day 6 | Breisach | Riquewihr walking tour and Christmas Market |
|
| | OR Freiburg excursion with Christmas Market |
|
| | OR Breisach wine country bike tour |
|
Visit the enchanting Alsatian town of Riquewihr beautifully dressed in her holiday finery with twinkling decorations and a lively Christmas Market. On your walking tour, admire historical architecture, as well as famous sights, such as the Dolder Gate. Alternatively, you may wish to visit Freiburg, founded in 1120, and home to Freiburg’s Münster, a Gothic cathedral constructed of red sandstone, as well as its enchanting Christmas Market. (B,L,D)
| Day 7 | Strasbourg | “The Gem of the Alsace” tour and Christmas Market |
|
Strasbourg is even more alluring during the season of Advent. The Christkindelsmärik dates back to 1570, making it the oldest Christmas Market in France. Enjoy a panoramic bus tour that takes you past the Parc de l’Orangerie, the European Parliament and the Place de la Republique. Afterwards, walk through the historic town center on the Grande Île, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and through the lovely “La Petite France” district, where you will see the Cathédrale de Nôtre Dame with its famous astronomical clock and then visit the town’s famous Christmas Market. You can also choose to explore Strasbourg's different districts by bicycle. During the afternoon, visit Gengenbach Christmas Market where every year the locals countdown to Christmas with a 24-day, larger-than-life Advent calendar. (B,L,D)
| Day 8 | Ludwigshafen | Heidelberg tour and Christmas Markets |
|
| | OR Medieval Speyer and Christmas Markets |
|
| Rüdesheim | Rüdesheimer Wine tasting |
|
You have the choice to explore two of Germany's historically rich cities, along with their festive Christmas Markets. Visit Heidelberg, a city that will capture your heart with its mighty castle and historic university. While here, wander along one of Europe’s longest pedestrian shopping streets, the Hauptstrasse, soaking up the Yuletide celebrations at the town’s Christmas Markets. Alternatively, you can explore one of Germany’s oldest cities, Speyer, known for the largest Romanesque cathedral in Europe—a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You'll also have time to visit its Christmas Market in front of the “Old Mint” (Alten Münze) in the famous Maximilianstrasse, with a view of the romantic imperial cathedral (Kaiserdom). Later in the day, sail to Rüdesheim where you can taste local wine or taste one of the town’s special delights, Rüdesheimer Coffee, ceremoniously made with brandy. (B,L,D)
| Day 9 | Rüdesheim | Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Museum & Christmas Markets |
|
| | OR Gondola ride & Christmas Markets |
|
| | OR Rüdesheim Vineyards Hike |
|
| | OR Guided bike tour of the Rheingau |
|
| Rhine Gorge | Cruise the castles of the Rhine Gorge |
|
| Lahnstein | Burg Lahneck Tour |
|
Your exploration of Rüdesheim continues with your choice of excursions. Visit Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum or take a gondola ride to the Niederwalddenkmal Statue, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the river. Afterwards, indulge your taste buds with a sampling of Riesling wines in the vineyards. Alternatively, you can join a guided bike ride through the town and along the Rhine River to Schloss Johannisberg; or hike through the town’s beautiful vineyards. During the afternoon, set sail along the scenic Rhine River Gorge with its fabled legends and many castles. (B,L,D)
| Day 10 | Cologne | “Holy City” tour with cathedral and Christmas Market |
|
| | OR Guided bike tour of Cologne |
|
Join a guided tour through the enchanting Old Town. Explore the UNESCO-designated cathedral and then visit one of Europe’s largest and most renowned Christmas Markets located in front of the cathedral. Alternatively, ride a bike along the Rhine and through the historic Stadtgarten; or visit a local tavern to taste Cologne’s traditional Kölsch beer and Reibekuchen—potato pancakes served with apple sauce. (B,L,D)
| Day 11 | Amsterdam | Scenic Cruising into Amsterdam |
|
Cruise the iconic canals of Amsterdam, considered the “Venice of the North” and admire the historic architecture along the way. Then, taste local specialties at one of Amsterdam’s grand cafés. Please note that an alternative tour will depend on docking location. (B,L,D)
| Day 12 | Amsterdam | DISEMBARKATION |
|
Bid Farewell to Amsterdam and prepare for your homeward flight. (B)