Christmas Markets on the Rhine 2024|2025|2026 - 8 Days (from Zurich to Amsterdam)
Description
Summary
Description
Embark on an enchanting multi-day tour through the heart of Europe, where the magic of Christmas comes alive. From the picturesque towns of Switzerland and Germany to the festive streets of France and the Netherlands, this journey promises unforgettable experiences. Enjoy guided tours, scenic drives, and visits to charming Christmas markets, all while staying in luxurious accommodations like the Star-Ship (or similar). Savor traditional festive foods, explore historical sites, and immerse yourself in the holiday spirit on this captivating Christmas cruise.
Included
7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 7 dinners
Airport transfers outside Australia are included
7 nights on board an Emerald Cruises Star-Ship
Emerald Sun: Owner's Suite ,Grand Suite ,Emerald Panorama Suite ,Emerald Stateroom, Emerald Destiny: Owner's Suite ,Grand Suite ,Emerald Panorama Suite ,Emerald Stateroom
The services of an Emerald Cruises cruise director
7 nights on board an Emerald Cruises Star-Ship
Airport transfers to and from your Star-Ship
The services of an Emerald Cruises cruise director
Port taxes and charges
All tipping and gratuities
Guided tour of Breisach
Guided tour of Strasbourg
Guided tour of Heidelberg
Walking tour of Koblenz & a visit to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress
Guided tour of Cologne's Old Town
Canal cruise
Guided visit to the Christmas market at Ravenna Viaduct
20 delectable meals including 7 breakfasts (B), 6 lunches (L), 7 dinners (D)
Including a Welcome and Farewell Reception & Dinner
Complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks served with lunch and dinner on board
Map
Attractions
Martin's Gate
Church of the Holy Spirit
Old Bridge Heidelberg
Amsterdamse Poort, Haarlem
Heidelberg Palace
Cologne Cathedral
Ehrenbreitstein Fortress
Cologne Zoological Garden
Amsterdam MuseumDaily Itinerary
Day 1 – Day 1: Basel
- Zurich
- Basel - Arrival day
- More
Welcome to Switzerland and the start of your enchanting Christmas cruise journey. Upon arrival at Zurich Airport, you will be greeted by a member of the Emerald Cruises team and transferred to your luxurious Star-Ship in Basel. Here, your friendly captain and crew will be waiting to welcome you. This evening, join your fellow guests for a delightful dinner on board, setting the tone for the magical days ahead.
Day 2 – Day 2: Breisach
Day 2: Breisach
- Martin's Gate
- Holbeinpferd
- Triberg-Land
- More
Today, explore 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, arriving at the historic Hofgut Sternen complex at the foothill of Ravenna Gorge. Here, history and tradition merge beautifully. As part of your EmeraldPLUS programme, visit 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.
Day 3 – Day 3: Kehl and Strasbourg
- Kehl
- Strasbourg
- More
- Burgruine Lützelhardt
- Sulzbach Wasserpfad
- More
This morning, dock in Kehl and transfer by coach to Strasbourg, the captivating capital of France’s Alsace region. Your guided tour will take you through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Grande Île, the historical heart of the city, known for its medieval half-timbered buildings and charming canals. Afterwards, visit one of Strasbourg’s most delightful Christmas markets, where you can savor traditional German Christmas treats and shop for unique gifts.
Day 4 – Day 4: Heidelberg
Day 4: Heidelberg
- Church of the Holy Spirit
- Old Bridge Heidelberg
- Heidelberg Palace
- More
Discover the rich history of Heidelberg with a guided tour that includes a wine tasting session and a visit to the ruins of Heidelberg Castle, offering stunning views of the Rhine River and the city’s red-roofed skyline. Stroll through the cobbled streets of the Old Town, visiting the Church of the Holy Spirit and Germany’s oldest university, immersing yourself in the city’s romantic charm.
Day 5 – Day 5: Koblenz
Day 5: Koblenz
- Grenzau Castle
- Ehrenbreitstein Fortress
- More
Today, venture into the heart of Koblenz, an ancient city straight out of a German fairy tale. Enjoy a guided tour through cobbled squares and narrow streets, including a visit to the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers at the German Corner. Take in the idyllic panoramic views of the Rhine from the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, capturing the essence of this picturesque city.
Day 6 – Day 6: Cologne
- Cologne
- More
- Cologne Cathedral
- Cologne Zoological Garden
- More
Experience the festive charm 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. Enjoy traditional glühwein and soak in the holiday spirit.
Day 7 – Day 7: Amsterdam
- Amsterdam
- More
- Amsterdamse Poort, Haarlem
- Amsterdam Museum
- More
Board a glass-top canal boat for a tour of Amsterdam’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed canal system, passing historic merchant houses that reflect the Dutch Golden Age. Explore the delightful Christmas stalls throughout the city, enjoying traditional festive foods and hot mugs of mulled wine amidst the holiday cheer.
Day 8 – Day 8: Amsterdam
- Amsterdam - Departure day
- More
After breakfast, bid farewell to your fellow guests and the Star-Ship as you are transferred to the airport. Take with you cherished memories of quintessential German villages and the magic of Christmas, concluding your enchanting journey.
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