Dates

Overview

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 of 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 at the Cologne Christmas Market, located in front of its UNESCO-designated Gothic Cathedral. Let Strasbourg, the “Capital of Noël” and home to the oldest and largest Christmas market in France, captivate you the way it has for centuries.

Itinerary

Day 1 – Arrive Basel, Switzerland – Embark

NOTE: Itinerary operates as described here, or in reverse direction from Amsterdam to Basel. Embark the ship in Basel. Tonight, meet your fellow passengers on board. (D)

Day 2 – Breisach, Germany

Breisach is your gateway to several different excursions. Journey into medieval Colmar, located in the enchanting Alsace region of France. Delight in the half-timbered houses lining the cobblestone streets as you take in the whimsical blend of French and German culture and the town’s wonderful Christmas markets. 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. Those wishing a more active excursion may cycle through the scenic countryside. (B,L,D)

Day 3 – Strasbourg, France

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 République. 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 Notre-Dame with its famous astronomical clock, before visiting the city’s renowned Christmas market. You may also choose to explore Strasbourg’s different districts by bicycle. In the afternoon, visit the Gengenbach Christmas Market, where locals count down to Christmas each year with a 24-day, larger-than-life Advent calendar. (B,L,D)

Day 4 – Ludwigshafen – Rüdesheim

Choose between two of Germany’s historically rich cities and their festive Christmas markets. Visit Heidelberg, a city that will capture your heart with its mighty castle and historic university. Wander along one of Europe’s longest pedestrian shopping streets, the Hauptstraße, and enjoy the Yuletide celebrations at the town’s Christmas markets. Alternatively, explore Speyer, one of Germany’s oldest cities, home to the largest Romanesque cathedral in Europe, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You will also have time to visit its Christmas market in front of the Old Mint (Alten Münze) on Maximilianstraße, with views of the imperial cathedral (Kaiserdom). Later, sail to Rüdesheim, where you can taste local wine or enjoy Rüdesheimer Coffee, ceremoniously prepared with brandy. (B,L,D)

Day 5 – Rüdesheim – Rhine Gorge

Visit Siegfried’s whimsical Mechanical Instrument Cabinet, take a guided bike tour through the town and along the Rhine River, hike through the vineyards, or soar above the town by gondola. Later, enjoy Christmas traditions from around the world at the Rüdesheim Christmas market. In the afternoon, relax in the Main Lounge, on your balcony, or on the Sun Deck as you cruise through the scenic Rhine Gorge, passing numerous historic castles. Upon reaching Lahnstein, enjoy a unique tour of Lahneck Castle. (B,L,D)

Day 6 – Düsseldorf

Enjoy a scenic cruise into Düsseldorf. In the afternoon, travel to nearby Cologne for a guided tour of its enchanting Old Town, including the Cologne Rathaus, Germany’s oldest town hall; the Fishmarkt, dating back to the 12th century; and the Great St. Martin Church. Visit one of Europe’s largest and most renowned Christmas markets. Alternatively, explore historic Düsseldorf on foot with a knowledgeable local guide, followed by a tasting of Altbier, the city’s traditional crisp beer. Conclude with a visit to the local Christmas market. Active guests may opt for a guided bike tour. (B,L,D)

Day 7 – Amsterdam, Netherlands

Cruise the iconic canals of Amsterdam, the “Venice of the North,” and admire the historic architecture along the way. Enjoy tastings of local specialties at one of the city’s grand cafés. Please note that the tour may vary depending on docking location. (B,L,D)

Day 8 – Disembarkation – Depart Amsterdam

Bid farewell to Amsterdam and prepare for your homeward flight. (B)