Christmas Markets on the Rhine 2024|2025|2026 - 8 Days (from Basel to Amsterdam)

Welcome to Switzerland and the start of your enchanting Christmas cruise journey. Upon arrival in Basel, you will be warmly greeted by a member of the Emerald Cruises team and transferred to your luxurious Star-Ship. Settle in and meet your friendly captain and crew. This evening, enjoy a delightful dinner on board as you get to know your fellow guests.

Today, embark on a journey to the charming Rhine town of Breisach, known as the gateway to Germany’s Black Forest region. In the afternoon, enjoy a scenic drive through the Black Forest Highlands, leading to the historic Hofgut Sternen complex at the foothill of Ravenna Gorge. Here, explore the enchanting Christmas market beneath the 40-metre-high Ravenna Viaduct, where the aroma of Black Forest specialties and unique handcrafted products fills the air.

This morning, dock in Kehl and transfer by coach to Strasbourg, the captivating capital of France’s Alsace region. Enjoy a guided tour of Strasbourg’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed Grande Île, known for its medieval half-timbered buildings and charming canals. Afterwards, immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere at one of Strasbourg’s delightful Christmas markets, where you can savor traditional German Christmas treats and shop for unique gifts.

Explore the rich history of Heidelberg with a guided tour that includes a visit to the ruins of Heidelberg Castle, offering stunning views of the Rhine River and the city’s red-roofed skyline. Enjoy a wine tasting session and stroll through the cobbled streets of the Old Town, visiting the Church of the Holy Spirit and Germany’s oldest university.

Today, delve into the heart of Koblenz, an ancient city that seems to have leapt from the pages of a fairy tale. Your local guide will lead you through picturesque vineyards and snow-capped mountains, exploring cobbled squares and narrow streets. Visit the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers at the German Corner and enjoy panoramic views from Ehrenbreitstein Fortress.

Experience the festive magic of Cologne, where seven Christmas markets transform the city into a winter wonderland. Following a guided tour of the city, explore the markets at your leisure, perhaps visiting the ornate stalls beneath the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cologne Cathedral. Savor traditional glühwein from beautifully decorated mugs as you soak in the holiday spirit.

Board a glass-top canal boat for a scenic tour of Amsterdam’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed canal system, passing historic merchant houses from the Dutch Golden Age. Explore the city’s festive Christmas stalls, enjoying hot mugs of mulled wine and traditional festive foods as you soak in the holiday atmosphere.

After a delightful breakfast, bid farewell to your fellow guests and the Star-Ship crew. You will be transferred to the airport, taking with you cherished memories of quintessential German villages and the magic of Christmas.