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Festive Markets of the Rhine & Alsace

 
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202520262027
Duration
5 days
From per person
$1,595
Tour code
CSM26
View Dates & Pricing
View Dates & Pricing
Travel among a group of like-minded travelers led by a professional tour manager
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Set sail on a magical Christmas river cruise along the Rhine, exploring festive markets, charming towns, and scenic beauty, with seasonal cheer around every bend

A festive cruise through Europe's most enchanting Christmas destinations on the Rhine River. Scenic landscapes and charming towns come alive with seasonal cheer as we sail through Germany and France during the most wonderful time of the year.

From the twinkling lights of Koblenz's historic streets to the captivating markets of Rüdesheim, Heidelberg, Speyer, and Strasbourg, each port of call offers seasonal charm and rich heritage. With guided tours, picturesque views, and cozy moments aboard our beautifully decorated ship, this cruise is sure you get you in the Christmas spirit.

Unforgettable Experiences

Explore festive towns along the Rhine
Explore festive towns along the Rhine
Wander amongst the half-timbered houses, historic architecture and Christmas markets of Obernai in Alsace and Rüdesheim in Germany.
Experience the UNESCO-listed Rhine Gorge
Experience the UNESCO-listed Rhine Gorge
Sail through Germany’s breathtaking Rhine Gorge, passing dramatic cliffs, medieval castles, terraced vineyards, and the legendary Lorelei Rock.
Tour historic Heidelberg
Tour historic Heidelberg
Visit the beautiful German town of Heidelberg, famous for its Old Town, iconic sandstone castle and seasonal Christmas markets.
Discover Strasbourg in winter
Discover Strasbourg in winter
Stroll around cobbled streets lined with half-timbered houses and Christmas markets as this historic French city is illuminated by festive lights, creating a magical atmosphere.

What’s included on the tour?

Itinerary

DAY1Boarding our luxurious ship in Cologne

Your festive break begins today as we meet the Tour Manager at London St Pancras station. Boarding the Eurostar, we travel to Brussels in Belgium, and switch rail services to Cologne. In this German riverside city, we board our luxurious cruise ship, which is bedecked in Christmas finery. After a welcome cocktail on board ahead of dinner, we set sail through the night towards Koblenz.

Please note: the departure on 30th November will operate a reverse itinerary starting in Strasbourg and ending in Cologne.

Includes
  • Dinner
DAY2The festive streets of Koblenz and Rüdesheim

We reach Koblenz this morning for some time to explore. Koblenz is a picturesque city which lies at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers. Famous for its historic charm, its landmarks include the Deutsches Eck, where the two rivers meet, and Ehrenbreitstein Fortress which offers stunning views. At this time of year, the medieval streets, buildings, and squares of the Old Town are adorned with twinkling festive lights and decorations.

Our cruise then continues, sailing through the stunning Rhine Gorge and by the famous Lorelei Rock. This part of the Rhine is a UNESCO World Heritage site and regarded as one of the most beautiful stretches, surrounded by dramatic cliffs, medieval castles, terraced vineyards, and charming villages.

Later, we arrive at the wine town of Rüdesheim. You have time to wander amongst the Christmas stalls browsing for gifts, or maybe sample a Rüdesheim Coffee, made with local Asbach Uralt Brandy and served with whipped cream. You could stroll along the Drosselgasse, a street in the Old Town lined with half-timbered houses, quaint shops, and wine bars. Back on board, we continue toward Speyer after dinner.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY3Heidelberg and Speyer Christmas markets

Seasonal delights await us again today in Speyer. On a trip to Heidelberg, we have a guided tour of the picturesque university town. It is known for its lovely Old Town and stunning riverfront. Our tour includes a visit to the magnificent ruined, red sandstone castle that towers over the city, providing amazing views of the surrounding forests, river, and cityscape. There is also time here to wander its Christmas market.

This afternoon there is free time for you to discover Speyer independently, which also has a delightful Christmas market. We take in the sights of this historic German city and its famous cathedral before a leisurely evening soaking up the festive atmosphere. During dinner this evening, we set sail for Strasbourg.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY4Exploring historic Strasbourg

Arriving in Strasbourg, you have the choice between two excursions. You could join a tour of Obernai, a nearby Alsace town at the foot of Mont Sainte-Odile with striking historic architecture and charming Christmas markets. Alternatively, you could have a city tour of Strasbourg, discovering its fascinating history and Gothic cathedral.

After your excursion, the rest of the afternoon is free in Strasbourg. The city sits on the French-German border and blends the best of the two cultures, with colorful half-timbered houses, shops and cobbled streets all aglow with Christmas lights and markets.

Our evening concludes with a spectacular gala dinner on board.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY5Homeward bound

The Rhine River has presented many festive moments during this seasonal cruise from Cologne to Strasbourg. From the charm of Koblenz to the fairytale scenes along the Rhine Gorge and historic Strasbourg, we have absorbed the beauty of Germany and France - and explored the Christmas markets of Rüdesheim, Heidelberg, Speyer, and Strasbourg.s

After breakfast, it's time to disembark and say goodbye to our wonderful crew. We head to Strasbourg rail station and catch the train to Paris, switching in the French capital to the Eurostar. Your vacation comes to an end as we arrive at London St Pancras, where you can make your way home.

Includes
  • Breakfast

Additional information

Departure times

Departure times vary based on selected rail vacation. This information will be provided in your final documents. For more information please speak with your rail specialist.

Train & Ship Information

See more details about this tour's trains and ships.

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MS Amadeus Silver II Cabin DS | Vacations by Rail
Deluxe Suites - Upper Deck

Travel the rivers in the utmost comfort and style when you choose to stay in one of our incredible Deluxe Suites. These cabins are larger than the others on board, at 26.4 square metres, and come with additional touches that adds just that extra touch of opulence.

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MS Amadeus Silver II Cabin A1 | Vacations by Rail
Deluxe Stateroom - Upper Deck

With your first steps into your Deluxe Stateroom, the impressive amount space is immediately apparent, with plenty of room for luggage, clothes and souvenirs included in your 17.5 square metres.

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MS Amadeus Silver II Cabin B1 | Vacations by Rail
Deluxe Stateroom - Middle Deck

With your first steps into your Deluxe Stateroom, the impressive amount space is immediately apparent, with plenty of room for luggage, clothes and souvenirs included in your 17.5 square metres.

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MS Amadeus Silver II Cabin C1 | Vacations by Rail
Classic Stateroom - Lower Deck

We take great pride in the quality, comfort and elegance that makes up the 16 square metres of our Classic Staterooms, which make up the majority of our on board accommodation. And we recognise the importance of having somewhere inviting to retire to after an engaging day of cruising or excursions.

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