The journey
Little changed throughout the centuries, the holiday traditions of France and Germany harken back to the true spirit of the season. Celebrate these timeless European traditions on a festive Rhine cruise as you browse atmospheric Christmas markets, explore the historic streets of Strasbourg and Cologne, and sample fine regional wines along the way.
Complete package information
Little changed throughout the centuries, the holiday traditions of France and Germany harken back to the true spirit of the season. Celebrate these timeless European traditions on a festive Rhine cruise as you browse atmospheric Christmas markets, explore the historic streets of Strasbourg and Cologne, and sample fine regional wines along the way.
Day Day 1
The Alsatian capital of Strasbourg delights with its charming neighborhoods, narrow streets, superb eateries, and eclectic mix of medieval, Renaissance and Art Nouveau architecture. The city was a major trade hub in the Middle Ages and its marketplaces and squares remain lively today — and never more so than during the holiday season. Meals: Dinner
Day Day 2
Explore Strasbourg in the company of a local expert, followed by a specially arranged tasting in the wine cellar of a historic Alsatian brasserie. Browse the city’s bustling Christmas market before boarding your riverboat. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day Day 2.1
Day Day 2.2
Day Day 3
Embark on an overland day trip to Freiburg, Germany, gateway to the Black Forest region and site of a bustling Weihnachtsmarkt. After time to explore and shop on your own, cross back into France along the Alsace Wine Road, each village revealing markets and history more beautiful than the last. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day Day 3.1
Day Day 3.2
Day Day 3.3
Day Day 4
The lively university town of Heidelberg with its Christmas markets is an unforgettable setting for a holiday season excursion. Stroll the historic city center under the looming walls of Heidelberg Castle, pausing for a wine tasting paired with lunch. This evening, enjoy a private cocktail party followed by a Chef’s Table dinner, an Worldway exclusive. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day Day 4.1
Day Day 4.2
Day Day 5
Awake in Rüdesheim to stroll the city’s charming streets. Back on board, cruise a postcard-perfect stretch of river, the famous Rhine Gorge. Later, set out on a walking tour of Koblenz and its medieval center, capping things off with a Captain’s Gala dinner back aboard. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day Day 5.1
Day Day 5.2
Day Day 5.3
Day Day 6
Disembark in Cologne and travel overland to Bonn, the former provisional capital of West Germany. Here, visit the spired Bonn Minster, one of Germany’s oldest churches, and celebrate the life of the great composer at the Beethoven-Haus Museum. Return to Cologne and check in to your hotel in the heart of the city. Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day Day 7
Cologne is a Gothic masterpiece and cultural hub renowned for its reconstructed Old Town. The city is also home to storied Cologne Cathedral, with its filigree twin spires, gilded medieval reliquary and panoramic river views. Join a local expert for a city walk, followed by a free afternoon to visit the city’s inviting Christmas markets and museums. Tonight, gather at a local restaurant for a farewell dinner. Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day Day 7.1
Day Day 8
After breakfast, take your private transfer to the airport for your departing flight. Meals: Breakfast
Booking process: Submit an enquiry for Cruise the Rhine to Europe's Christmas Markets; a Worldway specialist verifies live availability, supplier terms, routing, rooming and guest requirements before confirmation.
Payments: Deposit, balance deadline, currency conversion and any gateway fees are confirmed in writing before payment. No automatic charge is made from this information page.
Changes & cancellation: Worldway Travels Group rules can vary by departure, cabin, aircraft, hotel and season. Final cancellation penalties are shared on the quote and invoice before booking.
Travel documents: Passport validity, visas, insurance, medical requirements and local taxes remain traveller responsibilities unless specifically included in the confirmed proposal.
Can this journey be tailored?: Yes — every element can be refined to your dates, pace and interests by our specialists.
How do I reserve?: Contact our team and we'll confirm availability and secure your preferred departure.
This page is designed as a complete pre-booking dossier. Final supplier availability, taxes, route permits, aircraft positioning, visas, insurance, rooming and cancellation rules are reconfirmed by Worldway before payment or ticketing.
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