Christmas Markets on the Rhine (Smithsonian Journeys)
Experience the deep-rooted holiday traditions of Europe at its most festive time of year and get caught up in the magic of the holidays with visits to some of the world’s most timeless Christmas Markets. Warm up with a mug of steamy glühwein while at the Cologne Christmas Market located in front of its UNESCO-designated Gothic cathedral. Let the “Capital of Noël,” Strasbourg, the oldest and largest Christmas Market in France, captivate you the way it has for so many others for centuries. Meander through Heidelberg’s majestic Christmas Market nestled idyllically amongst the historic squares of the Old Town. Cherish all the glory of the season in grand European style as you cruise along the Rhine.
This river cruise journeys through Netherlands, Germany, France and Switzerland, calling at Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Düsseldorf, Rüdesheim, Ludwigshafen, Strasbourg, Breisach and Basel.
You’ll sail aboard the AmaWaterways river ships AmaViola and AmaLucia.
On our river cruises, you will enjoy an extensive lineup of included tours. In many cases, you will have a choice of excursions, such as standard tours, bike tours, hikes and special interest tours. We always include a large variety of activities so that you can choose how you want to explore. No matter your preference, your days will be full of discovery and wonder.
- 03 Dec 2028 – 10 Dec 2028
from $6,551 pp twin share * - 07 Dec 2028 – 14 Dec 2028
from $6,551 pp twin share *
* Prices and category availability are subject to change without notice.
Itinerary
Day 1 – Amsterdam
AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS – EMBARKATION. Arrive in Amsterdam and settle aboard your luxurious river ship as the city’s canals shimmer with lights, signaling the start of your enchanting Christmas voyage.
Day 2 – Amsterdam
AMSTERDAM – UTRECHT. Step into centuries of history at Slot Zuylen, a castle first built around 1250 and shaped by generations that followed. A significant renovation in the mid-17th century transformed the castle. This, along with smaller changes over the centuries have created a rich tapestry of architectural styles, evident as you move through its rooms and corridors. Beyond the walls, the gardens offer a more peaceful, quieter retreat. Together, the castle and its gardens make Slot Zuylen a place where history feels layered, lived in, and very much alive.
Day 3 – Düsseldorf
DÜSSELDORF, GERMANY. Discover Düsseldorf’s lively winter streets, or venture to Cologne to uncover the city’s ancient past among remarkable Roman ruins–then raise a glass of Kölsch at the storied Belgian House in celebration of its living history.
Day 4 – Rüdesheim
RHINE GORGE – RÜDESHEIM. Sail through the enchanting Rhine River Gorge, where castle ruins and steep vineyards frame breathtaking winter views. In Rüdesheim, stroll the cobblestone lanes, savor local wines, and take in the festive glow of one of Germany’s most charming Christmas Markets.
Day 5 – Ludwigshafen
LUDWIGSHAFEN. Celebrate Germany’s holiday traditions in Heidelberg’s castle-topped old town or Speyer’s historic heart, where centuries-old streets lead from soaring cathedrals to the wonders of the Technik Museum.
Day 6 – Strasbourg
STRASBOURG, FRANCE. Step into Strasbourg’s cobblestone streets, where timbered houses and glowing market stalls fill the air with the timeless magic of the season. While you’re there, gain exclusive insight into the heart of European democracy with a guided visit to the European Parliament, where history and policy converge in Strasbourg’s grand halls.
Day 7 – Breisach
BREISACH, GERMANY. Step into the magic of Alsace as you wander through Colmar’s half-timbered houses and snow-dusted squares, or explore the medieval charm of Freiburg, alive with the scent of mulled wine and the sparkle of its Christmas Market. For a deeper look into the region’s history, journey to the UNESCO-listed Neuf-Brisach Citadel–a masterpiece of 17th-century military design and a testament to France’s enduring cultural heritage.
Day 8 – Basel
BASEL, SWITZERLAND – DISEMBARKATION. Disembark the ship and bid farewell to Basel as you prepare for your return flight home.
Highlights
- Included Amsterdam canal cruise and scenic cruising in and out of Amsterdam
- Choice of standard, bike, hiking and special interest excursions
- Stateroom categories on AmaViola and AmaLucia river ships
Experience the deep-rooted holiday traditions of Europe at its most festive time of year and get caught up in the magic of the holidays with visits to some of the world’s most timeless Christmas Markets. Warm up with a mug of steamy glühwein while at the Cologne Christmas Market located in front of its UNESCO-designated Gothic cathedral. Let the “Capital of Noël,” Strasbourg, the oldest and largest Christmas Market in France, captivate you the way it has for so many others for centuries. Meander through Heidelberg’s majestic Christmas Market nestled idyllically amongst the historic squares of the Old Town. Cherish all the glory of the season in grand European style as you cruise along the Rhine.
This river cruise journeys through Netherlands, Germany, France and Switzerland, calling at Amsterdam, Amsterdam, Düsseldorf, Rüdesheim, Ludwigshafen, Strasbourg, Breisach and Basel.
You’ll sail aboard the AmaWaterways river ships AmaViola and AmaLucia.
On our river cruises, you will enjoy an extensive lineup of included tours. In many cases, you will have a choice of excursions, such as standard tours, bike tours, hikes and special interest tours. We always include a large variety of activities so that you can choose how you want to explore. No matter your preference, your days will be full of discovery and wonder.
Inclusions
- Amsterdam Canal Cruise.
- Scenic Cruising in/out of Amsterdam.
- Walking tour.
- Beer Tasting tour.
- Slot Zuylen Visit.
- Scenic cruising.
FAQs
Accommodation is aboard the AmaWaterways river ships AmaViola and AmaLucia.
Stateroom categories available
- Suite
- Category AA
- Category AB
- Category BA
- Category BB
- Category CA
- Category CB
- Category D
How long is this journey?
This itinerary runs for 8 days and 7 nights.
When can I travel?
Departures are currently scheduled between 03 Dec 2028 and 14 Dec 2028, subject to live availability.
Are there different departure options?
Yes, multiple departures may be available depending on your preferred travel period.
What is generally included?
Inclusions typically cover guided touring and selected experiences, with exact details listed in the itinerary.
What style of accommodation is used?
Accommodation is pre-arranged as part of the journey, with specific properties shown in the trip details.
Provided by: AMAWaterwaysFine Print
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