Thursday, December 4 - BASEL, SWITZERLAND
Board your ship in Basel for your Christmas Markets on the Rhine cruise.
(Breakfast Included)
Friday, December 5 - BREISACH, GERMANY
Breisach is your gateway to several different excursions. Journey into the 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 fabulous Christmas Markets. Alternatively, you may wish to visit Freiburg, founded in 1120 and home to Freiburg's Munster, a Gothic cathedral constructed of red sandstone, in addition to its enchanting Christmas market. Those wishing a more active excursion will want to cycle through the scenic countryside.
(Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included)
Saturday, December 6 - STRASBOURG, FRANCE
Strasbourg is even more alluring during the season of Advent. The Christkindelsmarik dates back to 1570, making it the oldest Christmas market in France. Enjoy a panoramic bus tour past the Parc de l'Orangerie, the European Parliament, and the Place de la Republique. Afterward, walk through the historic UNESCO World Heritage Site and the lovely "La Petite France" district, where you will see the Catedral de Notre Dame with its famous astronomical clock and then visit the town's famous Chrismas 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 count down to Christmas with a 24-day, larger-than-life Advent calendar.
(Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included)
Sunday, December 7 - LUDWIGSHAFEN / RUDESHEIM, GERMANY
You have a choice of several excursions, depending on your interest. Visit Heidelberg, a perfectly preserved medieval city nestled in the Neckar River Valley along Germn's Castle Road, followed by a visit to the Christmas markets. For those seeking a more active adventure, hike the historic Philosopher's Path or bike along the shores of the river Neckar, ultimately arriving in the medieval town of Ladenburg. Alternatively, you can discover the medieval past of Speyer and its charming Christmas markets. Later in the day, sail to the winemaking town of Rudesheim, where you can taste the village's sweet wine or its exceptional delight, Rudesheimer coffee, ceremoniously made with whipped cream and brandy.
(Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included)
Monday, December 8 - RUDESHEIM / RHINE GORGE SCENIC CRUISING / LAHNSTEIN, GERMANY
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 high above the village by gondola and later enjoy Christmas traditions from all over the world at Rudesheim Christmas market. Later in the day, sit in the Main Lounge, out on your balcony, or bundle up on the Sun Deck to enjoy a scenic cruise through the Rhine Gorge, during which you will see many historic castles. Upon reaching Lahnstein, take a unique tour of Lahneck Castle.
(Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included)
Tuesday, December 9 - DUSSELDORF, GERMANY
As a leading hub for German culture, commerce, and architecture, Dusseldorf is a must-visit city for any travelers on the Rhine. Here, you will have multiple options for the day's excursion. If you're feeling adventurous, take a brief trip to the nearby city of Cologne. Home to one of Germany's most revered Gothic masterpieces, the Cologne Cathedral, this 2,000-year-old city is also a bustling cosmopolitan hotspot. Join a guided tour through the enchanting Old Town and explore the UNESCO-designated cathedral, where the remains of the fabled Three Kings - the Magi - are believed to rest. Plus, visit one of Europe's largest and most renowned Christmas Markets facing the cathedral. Alternatively, explore historic Dusseldorf on foot with a knowledgeable local tour guide. Then, be treated to a tasting of Altbier, a clean and crisp beer developed in Dusseldorf and crafted using traditional brewing techniques. Conclude the tour with a visit to other local Christmas markets. For a more active excursion, join a guided bike tour of Dusseldorf that will take you through different sections, including Medienhafena and the historic old town.
(Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included)
Wednesday, December 10 - AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS
Cruise the iconic canals of Amsterdam, considered the "Venice of the North," and admire the historic architecture along the way. Alternatively, taste local specialties at one of Amersterdam's grand cafes. Please note that an alternative tour will depend on the docking location.
(Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner Included)
Thursday, December 11 - AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS
Disembark the ship and bid farewell to Amsterdam as you prepare for your return flight home.