Cologne and the Rhine Valley Christmas Markets Cruise by Rail
Immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere of Germany’s most magical destinations and their Christmas markets on this enchanting river cruise. Meandering along the majestic Rhine, we’ll explore the chocolate-box town of Rüdesheim; browse cosy chalets and taste local delicacies with a visit to beautiful Cologne; and end our tour on a high as we soak up the seasonal delights of Cologne. With wonderful, floating accommodation onboard the MS Johann Strauss, get into the festive spirit in style this year.
Tour Includes
- 4 nights cruise on a full-board basis
- Return travel by Eurostar from London St Pancras International
- Services onboard the ship of a Cruise Director & Manager
- Welcome drink and Captain’s Gala Dinner
- Return connecting rail journeys
- Coach transfers between station and ship
Travel Options
On-Tour
Experiences
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Itinerary
Please choose your preferred 5 day itinerary
We journey aboard the Eurostar from London St. Pancras International to Brussels and then connecting train to Cologne. On arrival, our coach picks us up and transfers us to our ship where we enjoy a peaceful evening as we sail towards Rüdesheim.
Includes Dinner
Relax this morning as we cruise along the Rhine through the astonishing gorge, passing by the incredible landmark of Lorelei. In the early afternoon, we arrive into Rüdesheim where you have free time to enjoy the Christmas Market, a delightful event held in the town’s chocolate-box old quarter.
Alternatively, you can join our optional excursion, 'Rüdesheim Delights', visiting the wonderful Mechanical Music Museum of Siegfried before enjoying a delicious mug of glühwein. This evening, there is also the opportunity to join our excursion to a traditional wine cellar to sample some of the region’s delicious wine.
Includes Breakfast
Includes Lunch
Includes Dinner
Optional Excursions
Our optional excursions are a great addition to enhance your holiday experience and are highly recommended.
This optional excursion is available to pre-book or you can book during your tour.
This morning, we head to the convergence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers at Koblenz. Enjoy free time at the Koblenz Christmas Market and visit the endless stream of exquisite wooden stalls offering a range of festive gifts and decorations whilst drinking a glass of glühwein. Or, explore the quaint lanes and atmospheric squares of the city, filled with lovely old buildings.
Includes Breakfast
Includes Lunch
Includes Dinner
Today, we venture to stunning Cologne, where the festivities are focused around the old town of the city. There, you will find the incredible UNESCO World Heritage site, the Cologne Cathedral, as well as a wide assortment of beautiful stalls selling exceptional arts and crafts. Held on the Rhine, there are also several smaller markets like the Harbour Christmas market, with its picturesque sights and lovely ambience.
Includes Breakfast
Includes Lunch
Includes Dinner
We bid farewell to our captain and crew this morning as we disembark for the return journey back to London St. Pancras International.
Includes Breakfast
Got a question about
this holiday?
Don’t hesitate to get in touch – our friendly team are ready and waiting to help with any further information you need!
Accommodation
You will stay for 4 nights on a full-board basis on board the MS Johann Strauss.Got a question about
this holiday?
Don’t hesitate to get in touch – our friendly team are ready and waiting to help with any further information you need!