Christmas Markets Cruise on the Romantic Rhine

DAY 4 Cologne, Germany: Christmas markets transform picturesque Cologne into a winter wonderland over the holiday season. Upon arrival, stroll through the city on a guided walking tour and get upclose to the filigree twin towers of the famous cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Enjoy free time and visit the cathedral Christmas markets in the Domplatz, in the shadows of the historic cathedral. This square is also home to the largest Christmas tree in the Rhineland. Decorated mugs hold steaming hot Glühwein and local vendors sell handmade sweets and local delicacies. Meals: B, L, D

DAY 5 Koblenz: Relax onboard as the ship makes her way to Koblenz. After a morning arrival, there is a choice of two Freechoice activities. Explore Koblenz on a walking tour with a local guide and see this historic city which straddles two of Europe’s most beautiful rivers. In the historic part of the city, six areas offer more than 100 glittering, festive, cottage-style stands and Lebkuchenherzen (traditional gingerbread hearts) to create a magical European Christmas experience. OR, travel by coach to Cochem and discover a true medieval gem resting on the banks of the Mosel River. Feel as if you’ve stepped straight into a fairytale during the guided tour through town, culminating with a visit to the iconic 19th-century Reichsburg Castle.

This afternoon, sail through the spectacular UNESCO World Heritage Rhine Gorge. Pass countless medieval castles and vineyards lining the shores of this section of the river, with photo opportunities around every bend, See the infamous Lorelei Statue and hear about her legend. Meals: B, L, D

DAY 6 Mannheim: Awaken this morning in the town of Mannheim, departure point for the day’s activities. Your Freechoice activities include a visit to Heidelberg, with two options: visiting the ruins of the famous Renaissance castle and a walking tour. OR a guided walk through the quaint Old Town on an orientation tour. Alternatively, take a short drive through vine-covered landscapes to the wine region of Bad Durkheim, where you will taste a selection of the exceptional wines on offer at the historic Fitz Ritter vineyard.

During your free time, don’t miss out on shopping for unique treasures at the Christmas Market in Heidelberg! The Old Town radiates with Christmas spirit from its decorated wooden stalls to the aromas of spices from local specialties and the merriment of the season. Enrich: Enjoy a private evening concert at the magnificent Schwetzingen Palace. With a history that dates back to 1350, the palace is a stunning architectural masterpiece. It’ll be an evening of grandeur unlike any other, and a chance to create memories you’ll cherish for a lifetime Meals: B, L, D

DAY 7 Rastatt (Baden-Baden): Famous for its Roman baths, Baden-Baden is a charming town on the edge of the Black Forest. Today’s Freechoice activities, from the port of Rastatt, are: Join a guided walking tour of this picturesque town and learn of its rich heritage, afterwards you will have free time to visit the delightful Christmas Markets that occupy the Lichtentaler Allee. OR relax with a visit to a rejuvenating thermal spa. Meals: B, L, D

DAY 8 Kehl (docking site for Strasbourg, France): A local guide leads you on a walking tour through this picturesque town. Stroll through the charming Old Quarter, “La Petit France”, admire the half-timbered houses and marvel at the gothic cathedral in the city center. Enjoy free time to visit the stalls of Strasbourg’s Christkindelsmärkt, one of the largest in Europe, before returning to the ship. Meals: B, L, D

DAY 9 Basel, Switzerland – Zurich / USA: It’s time to bid farewell to the Captain and crew and depart for Zurich airport as you say goodbye to Europe and return home with lifelong memories of your Christmas Markets cruise along the Rhine River. Flights should depart Zurich after 12:00pm. Meal: B

Itinerary and vessel are subject to change.