Duration: 5 Days
This European Christmas river cruise begins in Switzerland and sails along the Rhine River to France and Germany, with beautiful passing landscapes and quaint villages festively lit and decorated—a unique and unforgettable way to celebrate the season!
Board your ship in Basel, Switzerland, then stop in Breisach—the gateway to Germany’s Black Forest. An area of unrivaled natural beauty, best known for Black Forest ham, cherry cake, and the cuckoo clock, there is no better setting than at this time of year than seeing the smoke curling from the chimneys of traditional Black Forest houses in winter.
Strasbourg, France, located on the border with Germany, perfectly blends the cultures of both countries. The city is home to one of the oldest and finest Christmas markets in Europe—dating back to the 16th century. Take in the aromas of mulled wine, spice cakes, and biscuits. Bask in the holiday atmosphere as you visit Strasbourg Cathedral, a gothic masterpiece made of red sandstone, and containing ancient murals and fascinating astronomical clock.
You’ll go on an excursion to Heidelberg, Germany, to visit the fascinating ruins of Heidelberg Castle, towering magnificently over the city. This time of year, an ice rink can be found at the foot of the castle and the Christmas market is spread over five town squares. Delight in the holiday cheer with Glühwein (hot mulled wine), bratwursts, and other regional delicacies.
Enjoy plenty of time to find just the right Christmas present amongst the array of crafts, Christmas decorations, and gifts before this magical European river cruise ends in Wiesbaden, Germany. Delight in Christmas season memories to last a lifetime, and will call you back again and again!
Welcome to Switzerland! Your Suite Ship is ready for boarding.
Flights into Zurich must arrive by 3pm.
Guests must be on board ship by 5pm.
Stroll through the city centre, enjoy the festive illumination and savour Christmas delicacies like waffles, gingerbread, sweets, and Swiss raclette. EVENING CRUISE TO BREISACH. (D)
History, Artistry, and the Beautiful Black Forest.
DISCOVERY - Join a Guided Tour to the magical Black Forest to experience local traditions and the vibrant Christmas mood.
This afternoon you may choose to join a Guided Optional Excursion to visit the charming village of Colmar, with its half-timbered medieval and early renaissance buildings. OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO STRASBOURG (B,L,D)
A Gothic Cathedral, Heaven's Time, and Joyeux Noel.
CLASSIC - Come along for City Sightseeing, including the city's gothic, stained-glass cathedral with its celebrated ancient murals and astronomical clock, as well as the magical La Petite France District.
You may choose to join a Guided Optional Excursion to beautiful Alsace, for an afternoon in a French wine-country village. Savour the warmth and glow of Christmas tradition by spending your free time this afternoon wandering the French winter markets of Strasbourg. Take in the lights, music, and the pleasures of the season. EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO SPEYER (B,L,D)
Winter Wonders and a Wine Barrel Fit for a King.
CLASSIC - Take a Guided Tour that includes the magnificent Heidelberg Castle and the Great Vat-the world's largest wine barrel.
After the tour, visit the local German Christmas Markets in Heidelberg, or Speyer. Explore at your own pace to soak up the sights and sounds, tantalising treats, and seasonal handiwork of these sparkling winter wonderlands. EVENING/OVERNIGHT TO MAINZ (B,L,D)
Your holiday ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
