CHRISTMAS RIVER CRUISE

CHRISTMAS MARKETS RIVER CRUISE

 

Share in the joy of the season while creating holiday memories to savor forever. Imagine immersing yourself in the splendors of an old-world holiday by visiting centuries-old Christmas Markets, exploring some of Europe’s most charming towns, all while participating in traditional festive celebrations in each. Taste fresh-baked gingerbread, smell scents of cinnamon and roasting nuts, sip hot cocoa or warm spiced wine. Find the magic of the season on the rivers of Europe.

 

BEST TIME OF THE YEAR TO VISIT

 

Christmas Markets in Europe are open mostly around the holidays. Some open as early as mid-November and run up until Christmas, with a few being extended into the new year. The river cruise itineraries will start just before Thanksgiving, with the last sailing being the week between Christmas and New Year’s. It’s a short window but what a fantastic bucket list experience to have.

 

UNIQUE EXPERIENCES

 

• Experience the awe of the Christmas Markets of each city, some of the oldest in Europe.

• Purchase “handcrafted” gifts from the Budapest, and other, Christmas Markets

• Sip hot chocolate and indulge in freshly made gingerbread of all shapes and sizes

• Sing yuletide holiday songs with locals and tourists alike.

• Take a horse-drawn ride while sipping cocoa mulled wine, all snuggled in a cozy blanket.

• Search for unique gifts, such as hand-painted, glass ornaments.

• Kiss under the mistletoe in Strasbourg

• Sample traditional Christmas “treats” such as gingerbread, dried fruit, citrus fruits, goose, foie gras, Christmas beer, vin chaud, and roasted chestnuts. 

• Participate in Christmas traditions throughout your journey.

• Enjoy all the amenities onboard your cruise vessel. 

 

SAMPLE ITINERARY

 

Start your Holiday Market Cruise with a 2-night stay in Amsterdam. A city that is full of history, art and scenic canals. Board your 7-night cruise with daily stops along the Rhine to explore the Christmas Markets, history and local cuisine. Experience magical Switzerland for 2 nights after you disembark in Zurich. Not to miss – the 50-foot-tall Christmas tree decorated with thousands of glittering Swarovski crystals. 

 

INCLUDES

 

• Private Transfers from/to Airport upon arrival and departure

• 2 Nights Luxury Accommodations prior to cruise

• 7 Night River Cruise including all meals

• 2 Nights Luxury Accommodations at end of cruise

• Day Tours:

  • Visit Christmas Markets daily

  • Tree-trimming Party

  • Dine at the Chef’s Table specialty restaurant for a unique dining experience

  • Wine tasting experiences in Rudesheim

  • Old Town bike tours

  • Cruise the tranquil waters of Lake Lucerne

  • Stand under the mistletoe at Strasburg Christmas Market

  • Professional Photo Shoot in Amsterdam