Rhine Holiday Markets (2024) (Cologne to Basel, 2024)
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an enchanting 8-day tour that takes you through the heart of Europe during the festive season. This multi-day tour offers a unique blend of cultural exploration and festive cheer, as you visit bustling Christmas markets, explore historic towns, and indulge in local delicacies. From the artistic powerhouse of Basel to the quaint charm of Strasbourg, the hot springs of Baden-Baden to the historic treasures of Koblenz, every day brings a new adventure. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or simply looking to soak up the holiday spirit, this tour offers something for everyone.
Included
7-night cruise in a riverview stateroom on the exquisite
S.S. Antoinette
Lavishly appointed riverview staterooms and suites have handcrafted Savoir® Beds of England, high thread count 100% Egyptian cotton sheets and European duvets, and a menu of pillow options
Free Internet and Wi-Fi access
S.S. Antoinette: Grand Suite ,Suite
3 countries: France, Germany, Switzerland
3 UNESCO World Heritage sites
Services of an experienced Uniworld Cruise Manager
Group Transfers are included on arrival and departure days (please see terms and conditions for transfer guidelines)
Gratuities for onboard personnel (ship staff, crew, Cruise/Tour Manager) are included during the cruise/tour
Captivating onboard local entertainment
Cultural enrichment, including a Signature Lecture
Excursions included:
- Cologne Walking Tour with Old Town Visit and Christmas Markets
- Koblenz Walking Tour with Christmas Market
- Basel Walking Tour with Christmas Market
Additional excursions to choose from:
- Rüdesheim Walk with Local Treats and Christmas Market
- Rheinweinwelten Visit - The Best Rhine Rieslings
- Mainz Christmas Market Stroll
- Baden-Baden Walking Tour with Christmas Market
- Private Doktorenhof Vinegar Estate Visit and Tasting
- Strasbourg Walking Tour with Christmas Market
- “Taste of Christmas” Strasbourg Walking Tour
All meals onboard, prepared using the finest and freshest ingredients
7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 7 dinners
Captain’s Welcome and Farewell Receptions
Welcome and Farewell Gala Dinners
Unlimited beverages onboard, including fine wine, beer, spirits, specialty coffee and tea, soft drinks and mineral water
S.S. Antoinette
Services of an experienced Uniworld Cruise Manager
Destinations
Mainz
Kehl
Basel
Strasbourg
Cologne
Wiesbaden
Baden-BadenMap
Attractions
Karzer (Heidelberg)
Museum of Ancient Seafaring
Basel Town Hall
Cologne Cathedral
Cologne Chocolate Museum
Mainz CathedralDaily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Arrival in Basel
- Cologne - Arrival day
- More
Welcome to Basel, the cultural and artistic powerhouse of Switzerland. Upon your arrival at EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg, you will be greeted by a representative and transferred to your luxurious ship.
Day 2 – Day 2: Exploring Basel
- Cologne
- More
- Basel Town Hall
- More
Today, immerse yourself in the festive spirit of Basel. Visit the city's renowned Christmas Market, where you can browse through a variety of stalls selling everything from handmade crafts to delicious local delicacies. Don't forget to make a special Christmas wish at the 17th-century Town Hall.
Day 3 – Day 3: Strasbourg - The Crossroads of Europe
- Cologne
- More
Today, explore the quaint city of Strasbourg, known as the 'Crossroads of Europe'. Wander through its cobbled lanes, admire the half-timbered homes, and visit the city's Christmas Market. Don't miss out on trying the local holiday treat, bûche de Noël.
Day 4 – Day 4: Baden-Baden - A Blend of Contemporary Flair and Natural Beauty
- Mainz
- Wiesbaden
- Baden-Baden
- More
Today, venture into the city of Baden-Baden, known for its hot springs, spas, and unspoiled nature. Visit the city's Christmas Market or opt for a unique experience at the Doktorenhof Vinegar Estate, where you can enjoy a special vinegar tasting in a candlelit room.
Day 5 – Day 5: Mainz and Rüdesheim - A Tale of Two Cities
- Mainz
- More
- Museum of Ancient Seafaring
- Mainz Cathedral
- More
Today, explore the Old Town of Mainz, brimming with specialty shops, or opt to visit the Christmas Market in neighboring Wiesbaden. Later, cruise to Rüdesheim, a city famous for its beauty and the entertaining Drosselgasse, an alley of shops and wine bars.
Day 6 – Day 6: Koblenz - Where the Rhine and Moselle Meet
- Kehl
- Strasbourg
- More
Spend the morning onboard your ship, sailing through the picturesque Upper Middle Rhine Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Arrive in Koblenz, located at the famous intersection of the Rhine and the Moselle, and embark on a walking tour to explore the city's historical treasures.
Day 7 – Day 7: Cologne - A Blend of History and Culture
- Basel
- More
- Cologne Chocolate Museum
- More
Today, explore the vibrant city of Cologne. Join a local expert on a walking tour around the Old Town and uncover some of the city's most intriguing secrets. Visit the city's Christmas Markets and soak up the festive atmosphere.
Day 8 – Day 8: Departure from Cologne
- Basel
- Cologne - Departure day
- More
Your enchanting 8-day tour comes to an end today. After disembarking the ship, you will be transferred to Cologne Bonn Airport for your flight home. Take back memories of a lifetime from this magical holiday tour.
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