A-ROSA RIVER CRUISES - RHINE CHRISTMAS MARKETS SOUTH 2022 THE FLEXIBLE AND RELAXED WAY to discover Europe Rhine Christmas Markets South 2022
Taste the destination Bon appetit! PAGE 2 A-ROSA RIVER CRUISES - RHINE CHRISTMAS MARKETS SOUTH 2022
Roasted goose. A traditional German festive dish served with mushrooms, bacon and onion
TRADITIONAL FLAVOURS Classic German leek soup. A hearty cheesy leek soup perfect on a cold winter's day TO START Homemade apple and plum strudel with ice cream
DISCOVER THE MAGIC OF EUROPE THIS CHRISTMAS Twinkling lights, the smells of cinnamon, baked apple and mouth-watering traditional dishes await on this 4-night cruise on the spectacular Southern Rhine. Setting sail from Cologne, we’ll embark on a festive journey to the best Christmas markets of Germany and France. One of Germany’s biggest, Cologne’s markets sit in the shadow of the city’s dramatic, twin-spired cathedral. From here, we’ll delve deep into the region including optional tours to the university city of Heidelberg and a full day in Strasbourg with its charming old town dressed beautifully for the Christmas period. Enjoy gluhwein in Mainz, and perhaps visit famous Gutenberg Museum –one of the oldest printing museums in the world and absolutely fascinating. With 20 years’ experience and a German heritage, travelling with A-ROSA at Christmas time offers a more authentic way to appreciate the markets and a chance to celebrate in style.
Introduction
SOMETHING SWEET
We'll complement our delicious international dining with the very best authentic German cuisine. Here's a sample of what to expect...
Raise glass
afternoon tea and snacks
4 cruise on basis: buffet specialties,
night
included Return flights or rail to Cologne and return overseas transfers
with live show cooking Savour regional
a Premium All-Inclusive
a
with premium and local-branded drinks served around the clock: including specialty teas and coffees, soft drinks, beers, spirits, and a selection of wines, cocktails and UseNightlymocktailsentertainmentofallon-boardfacilities including SPA-ROSA, sauna, swimming pool, relaxation room and gym 15% discount on spa treatments Services of an on-board cruise director Little extras like FREE room service, Wi-Fi and luxury cabin amenities including bathrobes and slippers All port taxes River Rhine COLOGNE MAINZ MANNHEIM STRASBOURG CRUISE ROUTE PLEASE NOTE There is no seating or dress code; flexible table times ensure a relaxed atmosphereguests.among PAGE 3A-ROSA RIVER CRUISES - RHINE CHRISTMAS MARKETS SOUTH 2022
What's
Extensive breakfast, lunch and dinner served gourmet
The most famous Christmas market in Cologne is located in the shadow of the Cathedral, close to the River Rhine. The angel-themed Markt Der Engel is one of the city’s prettiest, you’ll find it festooned in twinkling star-shaped lamps giving the whole atmosphere a heavenly glow.
Itinerary Day 1
DEPART 16.00
Look out for our port times, when you're not discovering a new destination, you'll be soaking up the glorious views as you meander down the river.
You'll find ancient walls and medieval churches rubbing shoulders with modern quarters, a fantastic selection of quality museums and, the calling card of the city, its famous Gothic cathedral, dominating the skyline.
Fly to Cologne or opt for rail with Eurostar via Brussels and transfer to your A-ROSA ship for a 4-night cruise.
Head into the charming Altstadt (Old Town) on the banks of the Rhine and find yourself lost in narrow streets filled with traditional old houses, breweries, beer halls, cafes and shops.
FLY OR TRAIN TO COLOGNE AND EMBARK
The best views of Cologne are from the river. Running right through the heart of the city, the Rhine is criss-crossed with bridges making the history, culture and tourist highlights easy to explore. A major trading centre since the Roman times, Cologne merges the old and the new perfectly.
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INSIDER TOP TIP
Enjoy a morning and afternoon relaxing on board your ship as we sail along the Rhine. Later, we arrive at Mannheim, a stylish city with excellent shopping and a burgeoning arts scene. The Christmas market in Mannheim is located an easy amble from the ship’s mooring location and it's an inspiring place to visit after the sun sets and the festive lights begin to shine.
Day 3 KEHL (STRASBOURG)
MANNHEIM (HEIDELBERG)
ARRIVE 16.00, DEPART 20.00
Day 2
ARRIVE 10.30, DEPART 23.00
Good morning, Strasbourg! We reach the capital of the Grand East region of France at 10.30am today, so you have the full day to explore. In Strasbourg, the Rhine acts as the border of Germany and France; your A-ROSA ship moors in Kehl on the German side, from which it is a leisurely stroll into the city centre. The Christmas market in Strasbourg is the oldest market in France, dating back to 1570 so it will come as little surprise that the city considers itself the Capital of Christmas. The old town's colourful houses and narrow streets are lit up over the festive period giving it a glorious, romantic feel. Explore the canals of charming Petit France and enjoy a drink in one of the traditional cosy ‘winstubs’ or Alsatian taverns. Strasbourg Cathedral should feature high on your to do list. For 227 years, this commanding sandstone structure was the tallest building in the world. It is well worth a trip to the top of the tower where views stretch as far as the Black Forest, some 30km away. You will find the main Christmas market here too.
PAGE 5A-ROSA RIVER CRUISES - RHINE CHRISTMAS MARKETS SOUTH 2022
Mannheim is also the perfect point to opt to explore Heidelberg, Germany's oldest and most famous university town. Set against a thickly-forested backdrop with a half-ruined castle looming over the skyline, you'll quickly fall for Heidelberg’s Baroque charms. Its lovely Altstadt (Old Town) is a joy to explore with festive stalls and a wonderful atmosphere. The Winterwaeldchen Christmas market is decorated with fir trees and is themed like a wintry forest.
MAINZ ARRIVE 12.00, DEPART 17.30
DISEMBARK IN COLOGNE AND FLY OR RAIL BACK TO THE UK
The Old Town also plays host to the impressive 1,000-year-old Mainzer Dome, a masterpiece of Gothic, Romanesque and Baroque styles, as well as the fantastic Gutenberg Museum. Commemorating Mainz's illustrious printing past, explore how Johannes Gutenberg invented the letterpress, revolutionising how books were printed and told through presses, magazines, newspapers, and most notably, the two fascinating Gutenberg Bibles.
Our journey continues today downstream on the Rhine, arriving at Mainz at noon. Why not spend the morning relaxing in the SPA-ROSA which offers commanding views across the landscape as you lazily drift down the river. Mainz is located at the very heart of the Rhineland's wine growing region and is most famed for its fantastic Riesling and Silvaner wines. Wander the cobbled streets of the Old Town, and lose yourself among half-timbered buildings housing colourful bars, traditional shops and cute cafes.
ARRIVE 12.00, DEPART 17.30
The Christmas market is located walking distance from our ship’s mooring location and has over 100 stalls creating a magical festive atmosphere. Back on board, we will continue our journey back to our final port of Cologne. This evening, spoil yourself with a final festive dinner and evening entertainment. Day 5
Depending on the time of your onward travel arrangements, why not delve a little deeper into the city. If you are feeling energetic you could opt to climb the 533 steps to the top of the Cathedral (the third tallest church building in the world), indulge your sweet tooth at the Chocolate Museum or just opt to relax with an ice-cold Kolsch beer. Transfer to the airport or train station for your flight or train back to the UK.
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Day 4
Discover the picturesque old town with its beautiful half-timbered houses, the Rhine promenade or the carnival fountain from the comfort of a rickshaw. Experience the sights and festive ambiance of the city and learn about Gutenberg, the inventor of the printing press.
EXCURSIONS AND
DAY 3 - STRASBOURG
CHRISTMAS MARKET IN HEIDELBERG
£99£43£59£30
Travel to Heidelberg and enjoy two hours soaking in the unique atmosphere and warming glow of the stalls nestled idyllically amongst the historic squares of the Old Town. In the fairy-tale winter woods at the Kornmarkt, over 100 beautifully-scented pines elegantly decorate the market.
DAY 4 - MAINZ THE BEST OF MAINZ - 2000 YEARS OF HISTORY AND REGIONAL WINE
OPTIONAL EXPERIENCES
Beginning with a short stroll through the old town, this excursion will take you to the world-famous Strasbourg Minster and past numerous old timber-framed houses. Afterwards you will have enough time to explore the delightful Christmas market on your own.
DAY 2 - MANNHEIM
CHRISTMAS TIME IN STRASBOURG
Discover Mainz’s 2000-year history and culinary delights. Mainz is surrounded by Germany's largest wine-growing region 'Rheinhessen'. On this tour you will discover the heart of Mainz's old town and have the chance to try regional wines during a wine tasting.
RICKSHAW TOUR THROUGH MAINZ
Explore the magical Christmas markets independently, or pre-reserve our choice of optional excursions. Once you have booked, you can pre-register for the following optional excursions: (All pre-registered excursions are payable on board, subject to availability. Prices below are the current guide prices per person which may change depending on the exchange rate.)
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There’s a great value Premium All-Inclusive package included on every cruise with an extensive drinks menu serving up everything from freshly-mixed cocktails to specialty coffees. Raise a glass to unforgettable moments and complete enjoyment on board your next holiday with A-ROSA River Cruises.
The generous sun deck is ideal for al fresco dining and even has a small putting green. There’s an elegant lounge with floor-to-ceiling windows framing passing scenery. In the daytime, it’s a great spot for a speciality coffee as you sail along the river, by night, expect music and occasional entertainment.
Expect the perfect balance of scenic sailing and longer days and overnight stays in port allowing you to immerse yourself in each of the expertly hand-picked destinations. On board your spacious and modern A-ROSA ship, the atmosphere is warm and cosmopolitan with an attentive crew and leisurely atmosphere which you’ll see in touches like the expansive gourmet buffet dining served without set times and
SPA-ROSA is the ship’s wellness hub. You will find a relaxation room, sauna, gym and professional treatment rooms. There’s a whirlpool at the very front of the ship too. All facilities are complimentary - and you’ll receive a 15% discount on spa
With over 20 years’ experience sailing Europe’s most beautiful waterways, A-ROSA River Cruises have crafted the art of uniquely relaxed and flexible journeys to spectacular cities, charming towns and awe-inspiring natural gems.
A-ROSA AQUA is a comfortable, welcoming ship offering the perfect relaxed way to explore the Rhine. With space for 209 passengers, A-ROSA AQUA plays host to a wide range of cabin options, all with river views. Choose to upgrade to a Juliet balcony and enjoy the river panoramas from your own private space.
Why choose A-ROSA River Cruises? A-ROSA AQUA A-ROSA RIVER CRUISES - RHINE CHRISTMAS MARKETS SOUTH 2022
The main restaurant offers a casual atmosphere with buffet dining and live cooking plus outdoor seating and a café and wine bar a short amble away.
O UR
One thing you won’t want to forget – your camera.
A-ROSA RIVER CRUISES - RHINE CHRISTMAS MARKETS SOUTH 2022
Choose to add extra time in Germany and make your holiday completely unique. We can tailor-make your entire experience with a fantastic choice of hotel stays before or after your cruise so you can enjoy our favourite destinations for a little longer.
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On board your ship, the dress code is relaxed which means you can enjoy the public areas and restaurants in the clothing you feel most comfortable in. On shore, we recommend packing for a variety of weathers depending on the time of year you plan to travel.
Ensure you bring your favourite pair of walking shoes, trainers or sandals for discovering new cities, plus layers for cooler days and a rain jacket or coat too.
The on board currency is Euros. Tips are entirely discretionary. We're an international line, so expect a cosmopolitan feeling on board and announcements in both English and German.
PACKING TIPS
Make it yours
Useful information
We no longer require proof of vaccination or testing to join our ships. Our friendly team can help to advise on any local requirements or up-to-date Foreign Office advice.
One of the most exciting things about a river cruise is the variety of destinations you’ll visit.
- LUCIA ROWE -
Consider making yourself an appointment at the spa on Day 2. You'll have a full morning and afternoon of scenic sailing and there's nothing like a relaxing treatment followed by time in the ship's whirlpool or relaxation room watching the river views drift by. You'll receive a 15% discount on spa treatments too.
INSIDERTIP...
TO BOOK, OR FIND OUT MORE: CONTACT YOUR LOCAL INDEPENDENT TRAVEL AGENT
