This Christmas river cruise begins in Switzerland and takes you down the Rhine River to France and Germany, with beautiful passing views 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, considered 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 when smoke curls from the chimneys of the traditional Black Forest houses. 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. There’s 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 Frankfurt, Germany.
Christmastime in Alsace and Germany (Northbound) River Cruise
December 1: Basel, Switzerland (Embark)
December 2: Breisacht, Germany (Beautiful Black Forest)
December 3: Strasbourg, France
December 4: Speyer, Germany (Heidelberg)
December 5: Frankfurt, Germany (Disembark)
Current discounted river cruise pricing for this sailing starts at $2,319.00 per person for double occupancy category E Deluxe staterooms. Only 1 room remains at this price. Upgrades for an added cost are available to a Panorama Stateroom or a Royal Stateroom.
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Avalon Waterways is able to assist with arranging flights for our group. We will be able to start customizing those options beginning February 2025. Currently quoted pricing does not include flights to and from Europe.
If you are interested in traveling through Europe prior to the cruise we can work together to customize the perfect option for you. Currently quoted pricing does not include this option. This experience will be billed separately and RSVP sign-ups will begin December 2024.
For those wishing to extend their trip post-cruise, I will be planning an extension for up to 6 nights. While the itinerary is still in development, possible cities visited will be Cologne, Germany, Brussels, Belgium and Paris, France. This experience will be billed separately and RSVP sign-ups will begin December 2024. SAMPLE ITINERARY