Rhine and Moselle Christmas Markets with Lucerne and Zurich

Be met on arrival in Amsterdam and transferred to your premium river ship. Perhaps take a stroll to the Ice Village Christmas Market and pick up some traditional Dutch Christmas treats, before meeting your Cruise Director and fellow passengers during a Welcome Reception.

Framed by historic gabled houses and low arched bridges, Amsterdam’s 17th-century canals have earned it the nickname 'Venice of the North'. Today, board a glass-top boat and cruise the waterways with a local guide, taking in the city’s waterside landmarks. Back on land, enjoy free time to explore before rejoining your ship. This evening, celebrate with a special Captain’s Welcome Dinner on board.

Having entered Germany, arrive in Cologne, where the magnificent Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom) rises above the banks of the Rhine. Disembark for a guided tour and learn how the cathedral’s famous twin spires took more than six centuries to complete.

Insider Experience – Cologne Christmas Market

Soak up the festive atmosphere at Cologne’s renowned Christmas market, set beneath the soaring Kölner Dom. Browse the wooden stalls and sample mulled wine and local seasonal delicacies.

Relax on board as your ship glides along one of the Moselle River’s most picturesque stretches, passing vineyard-clad hills and storybook villages. Disembark in the charming town of Cochem and wander its narrow lanes lined with half-timbered houses before seeing the magnificent Reichsburg Castle, perched high above the river. Later, browse Cochem’s delightful Christmas market, where festive decorations, twinkling lights and seasonal treats bring the town to life.

Cruise through the Rhine Gorge, widely regarded as the most scenic stretch of the Rhine River. Dock in Rüdesheim and ride the Winzerexpress mini train through town to Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum, home to a remarkable collection of automated instruments. Afterwards, follow the scent of gingerbread into the old town, where Rüdesheim’s festive Christmas market awaits, and visit the famous Käthe Wohlfahrt Christmas store for handcrafted decorations and gifts.

Arrive in Strasbourg, the enchanting Alsatian city on the border of France and Germany. Join a guided tour through its historic quarters, admiring half-timbered houses, canals and the soaring cathedral. After your special Insider Experience, return to your river ship for a Farewell Dinner.

Insider Experience – France’s Oldest Christmas Market

Enjoy time at the Christkindelsmärik, one of Europe’s oldest and most famous Christmas markets. More than 300 chalet-style stalls fill the historic district, centred around a towering Christmas tree.

Disembark in Breisach to explore the Black Forest region. Travel by coach, on a scenic drive through Kaiserstuhl and Karlsplatz to the Freiburg Christmas Markets where you will enjoy a gingerbread tasting. 

Return to your river ship where the gourmet delights continue as you indulge in a sumptuous Farewell Dinner.

After breakfast, disembark your ship and join a guided tour of Basel. Later, travel to Lucerne and check in to your hotel. This evening, you may wish to enjoy an optional traditional dinner and entertainment at a Swiss folklore restaurant (additional expense).

Framed by the breathtaking Swiss Alps, Lucerne is a joy to explore. Join a festive walking tour to discover the city’s Christmas traditions, then wander among the twinkling stalls of Lucerne’s charming Christmas markets and soak up the seasonal atmosphere.

Enjoy a memorable Insider Experience this morning before continuing to Zürich, where the afternoon is yours to explore at leisure. This evening, gather with your fellow travellers for a Farewell Dinner.

Insider Experience – Mount Pilatus

Ascend to the summit of Mount Pilatus by gondola and the spectacular Dragon Ride aerial cableway. As you climb, sweeping views unfold across Lake Lucerne, forested slopes and rugged alpine peaks.

Today is yours to explore Zürich at leisure. This evening, join a guided tour of the city and soak up its festive atmosphere. Visit one of Europe’s largest indoor Christmas markets and see the famous Singing Christmas Tree, a beloved seasonal tradition. Alternatively, you may like to take part in a Christmas chocolate making course at Lindt Home of Chocolate (additional expense).

Transfer to the airport for your onward flight home, bringing your festive European journey to a close.