Rhineland Christmas Markets Cruise

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Rhineland Christmas Markets Cruise



Tour Description:

EXPERIENCE THE WARM AMBIANCE OF GERMANY’S TRADITIONAL CHRISTMAS MARKETS AND THE DRAMATIC VISTAS OF RHINE GORGE ON THIS HOLIDAY CRUISE VACATION ABOARD THE LUXURIOUS AMADEUS SILVER II.

The Rhine Gorge is a spectacular destination brimming with centuries of history and natural landscapes that put others in Europe to shame. Dense forests drape over sheer cliffs, and ancient castles dot the shores. There are wonderful cities and quaint villages, each of which offers a unique glimpse at the Rhine region’s culture. As the holiday season approaches, these locales are adorned in traditional decorations and twinkling lights as the Christmas Markets arrive once more. This cruise tour through the Rhine Gorge presents the yuletide warmings of this time of year in four fantastic destinations along the river: Rüdesheim, Koblenz, Bonn and Cologne. Aboard your luxury cruiser, the Amadeus Silver II, navigate the beauty of this Rhine while enjoying views from your comfortable cabin and indulging in memorable onboard experiences, such as a gingerbread-making demonstration. Each day brings a new port of call and a fresh chance to experience the excitement and merriment surrounding this time of year. Your off-board excursions may include guided touring of a city or the opportunity to meander through the local holiday markets at your own pace, soaking in the spiced air and bountiful offerings. There is no shortage of delights to behold on this holiday tour.

Highlights:
*
* Rail travel on the high-speed Eurostar
* Rail travel on local rail networks
* 4-night river cruise on board the Amadeus Silver II
* 11 meals, including a Christmas-themed gala dinner
* Koblenz guided walking tour
* Bonn city tour
* Experience the Christmas Markets in Cologne, Rudesheim, Koblenz and Bonn
* Enjoy a gingerbread-making demonstration
* Services of a professional tour escort and knowledgeable local guides for touring

Map for Rhineland Christmas Markets Cruise
Click for larger view.

Dates & Pricing



Destination & Sightseeing

ITINERARY

Day 1 – To Cologne
We meet at St Pancras to board the Eurostar to Brussels. We continue by train, traveling to Cologne, and here, we board our excellent vessel, the MS Amadeus Silver II. After we are settled into our cabins, we are treated to a welcome cocktail before dinner later tonight. The ship sets sail overnight. (D)

Day 2 - The Rhine Gorge and Rüdesheim
Today we set sail through what is one of the highlights of the cruise: the Rhine Gorge. This ancient gorge is truly beautiful, the winding river forming a perfect bend through the valley walls, which are lined by vineyards. We drift pass the enormous Lorelei Rock, a famous natural structure said to be looked over by the ghost of a woman who lures sailors to their doom. In the lounge, you are invited to learn how to decorate bredeles, tasty biscuits local to the region, by hand. This afternoon, we moor at pretty Rüdesheim where we pay a visit to the charming and eccentric Siegfried's Mechanical Music Cabinet, where we see over 350 mechanical instruments playing music by themselves. Back on board we enjoy mulled wine while listening to festive Christmas carol songing before dinner. You are free later to head to the fantastic Christmas market in Rüdesheim. (B, L, D)

Day 3 – Exploring Koblenz
We have a chance to watch a gingerbread making demonstration while sailing into Koblenz this morning, where you have a tour and then the rest of the day to uncover this traditional German town and its Christmas market. Our walking tour tells the story of Koblenz, and visits several important locations including the Basilika of St. Castor, Schängelbrunnen fountain and Munzplatz market square. You are free afterward to discover the Christmas market of Koblenz. (B, L, D)

Day 4 – Discovering Bonn
We arrive into Bonn this morning after sailing overnight. Here you will enjoy a guided tour of the city before taking part in an afternoon Christmas themed tea as we sail on to Cologne. Walk in the footsteps of the Romans and the Prince-electors of Cologne. The sights of the city centre are so close together that they can be easily visited on foot. Discover the haunts of the city’s most famous son, Ludwig van Beethoven, and enjoy the imposing view of the Siebengebirge hills. The most important points of interest on the circular walk are the Beethoven monument, the Minster, the Electoral Palace – today the University – with the Hofgarten park, the Old Town Hall and the birthplace of the world-famous composer.  After we enjoy lunch back onboard the ship as we sail to Cologne. Upon arrival feel free to set out on your own to admire the enchanting Christmas lights and decorations and browse a few of the Christmas markets set up across the city. (B, L, D)

Day 5 – Return home
Today we disembark and transfer to the station. We board our train to Brussels and then change for the Eurostar to London. (B)