Rhine Holiday Markets (2024) (Cologne to Basel, 2024)
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an enchanting 8-day journey through the heart of Europe, where the magic of Christmas comes alive in the most picturesque towns and cities. This multi-day tour offers a unique blend of history, culture, and festive cheer, taking you from the vibrant city of Cologne to the cultural hub of Basel. Along the way, you'll explore charming old towns, marvel at stunning cathedrals, and immerse yourself in the festive spirit at traditional Christmas markets. With a choice of excursions tailored to your interests, you'll experience the best of each destination, all while enjoying the comfort and luxury of your boutique ship accommodation. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or simply in love with the holiday season, this tour promises a memorable European adventure.
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
Cruise ship
Expert guide
Meals as stated
Map
Attractions
Studentenkarzer
Museum of Ancient Seafaring
Basel Town Hall
Cologne Cathedral
Cologne Chocolate Museum
Mainz CathedralDaily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Arrival in Cologne
- Cologne - Arrival day
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Welcome to Germany! Upon your arrival at Cologne Bonn Airport, you'll be greeted by a Uniworld representative and transferred to your luxurious boutique ship. Settle into your comfortable accommodation and prepare for the exciting journey ahead.
Day 2 – Day 2: Exploring Cologne
- Cologne
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- Cologne Cathedral
- Cologne Central Mosque
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Today, a local expert will guide you through the charming streets of Cologne's Old Town. Discover the city's rich history, marvel at the stunning cathedral, and soak up the festive atmosphere at the traditional Christmas markets. Don't forget to try some local delicacies and pick up unique holiday gifts.
Day 3 – Day 3: Journey to Koblenz
- Cologne
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- Pohl Roman Fortlet
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Today, you'll sail to the enchanting town of Koblenz, located at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers. Witness the spectacular sight of the waters merging at the German Corner before embarking on a walking tour of the town's historical treasures. Later, enjoy a leisurely afternoon onboard as you sail through the picturesque Upper Middle Rhine Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Day 4 – Day 4: From Rüdesheim to Mainz
- Mainz
- Wiesbaden
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- Die Drosselgasse
- Mainz Cathedral
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Begin your day in the charming city of Rüdesheim, famous for its beauty and the lively Drosselgasse, a street filled with shops and wine bars. After exploring Rüdesheim, return to the ship for a short cruise to Mainz. Spend the afternoon wandering through Mainz's Old Town, filled with specialty shops, or opt to visit the neighboring Wiesbaden's Christmas Market.
Day 5 – Day 5: Adventure in Baden-Baden
- Mainz
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- Historical Museum of the Palatinate
- The Baden-Baden Casino
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Today, choose between two exciting excursions. Venture into the storied city of Baden-Baden, known for its hot springs, spas, and unspoiled nature, or visit the unique Doktorenhof vinegar estate for a special vinegar tasting in a candlelit, holiday-decorated room. Whichever you choose, you're in for a memorable day.
Day 6 – Day 6: Discovering Strasbourg
- Kehl
- Strasbourg
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Today, you'll travel to the quaint city of Strasbourg, known as the 'Crossroads of Europe'. Explore the city's cobbled lanes, half-timbered homes, and pastry shops with a local expert. Don't miss the chance to try the delicious Christmas cake, bûche de Noël, and immerse yourself in the festive spirit at the city's renowned Christmas market.
Day 7 – Day 7: Basel - The Cultural Powerhouse
- Basel
- Strasbourg
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- Basel Town Hall
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Your journey continues to Basel, a city renowned for its cultural and artistic prowess. Visit the city's Christmas Market, one of the largest and most traditional in Europe, and stroll down Christmas Street, lined with beautifully decorated and illuminated Christmas trees. Don't forget to make a special wish for Christmas at Basel's 17th-century Town Hall.
Day 8 – Day 8: Departure from Basel
- Basel - Departure day
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As your magical European Christmas journey comes to an end, you'll disembark the ship and be transferred to EuroAirport Basel-Mulhouse-Freiburg for your flight home. Leave with unforgettable memories and the spirit of Christmas in your heart.
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