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Christmas Markets on the Rhine

Christmas Markets on the Rhine

About This Cruise

A classic journey on the Rhine, Main, and Danube rivers promises spectacular landscapes, rich culture, and fascinating history, where world-class cities are complemented by romantic towns.

Cruise through the heart of Europe’s finest cities, many of whom host large traditional Christmas markets. There’s nothing quite like taking a Rhine River cruise at Christmas time, as you’ll be able to take advantage of the hundreds of stalls all selling ideal Christmas presents for the folks back home.

Who Is This Cruise For?

  • Couples

    Luxury service and an intimate, small-ship feel

  • Over 50s

    A gentle pace with daily excursions and no sea days

Type

River, Luxury

Ship

Emerald Dawn

Departure Date

15 December 2027

Cruise Line

Emerald Cruises

Duration

7 Nights

Select Your Cabin Type
Select your cabin type
Call Us at 01 6874149

Itinerary

Switzerland

Zurich

Welcome to Switzerland and the start of your Christmas cruise journey. You’ll be met at the airport by a member of the Emerald Cruises team and transferred to your contemporary Emerald Star-Ship in Basel (Huningue), where your friendly captain and crew will be waiting to greet you.Please book your flight to arrive into Zurich prior to 01:00 PM.

Germany

Breisach

Set high above the Rhine at the point where the Black Forest joins Alsace, Breisach is a charming blend of German and French cultures. The Romanesque-Gothic St Stephen’s church is perched on a volcanic hill and visible from a great distance.This evening, join your fellow guests for a welcome dinner on board.Included ExcursionGuided tour of Breisach with Christmas Market VisitJoin your local guide for a walking tour of Breisach. See the Stephanmünster cathedral, the Radbrunnen sculpture, the Franciscan Monastery, and walk the pretty streets around Marktplatz. Afterwards, visit the Christmas market.EmeraldPLUSGuided visit to the Christmas Market at Ravenna ViaductEnjoy a picturesque drive through the Black Forest Highlands to the Hofgut Sternen complex at the foothill of Ravenna Gorge, a place where history and tradition merge. It was here that in 1770 Marie Antoinette stopped with 52 beautifully decorated carriages on the way to her wedding to King Louis XVI. Explore the lovely Christmas market underneath the 40-metre-high (131 ft) Ravenna Viaduct. Be amazed by the magical aroma of Black Forest specialties and handcrafted regional products.DiscoverMOREGuided tour of Colmar (extra expense)Commence your magical morning with a tour of Colmar. As you walk down the cobblestone lanes, it's easy to imagine the characters from the Grimm's Fairy Tales here. In the historic centre, you will be able to see the confluence of French and German architecture, lifestyle, and culture.Activity level: Easy, Duration: 5 hours

France

Strasbourg

Arrive in Strasbourg, a city that promises much in the way of beautiful architecture. The World Heritage-listed Neustadt district is an iconic example of 19th-century German Imperial architecture. Strasbourg is also at the heart of the Alsace wine region.Included ExcursionGuided tour of Strasbourg with Christmas MarketsYour guided walking tour will include the Grand Île, Strasbourg's UNESCO World Heritage-listed historical city centre, known for its medieval timber-framed buildings. See the Maison Kammerzell, one of the most famous buildings in Strasbourg, and Petite France, the postcard-worthy historic district with a charming canal system and half-timbered houses. Afterwards, visit one of its most charming Christmas markets to enjoy traditional Alsatian treats and shop for presents.DiscoverMOREBaden Baden Spa Experience (extra expense)Escape to the heart of Germany’s Black Forest for a rejuvenating day at the world-renowned Baden-Baden spa town. Famous for its healing thermal waters and elegant ambience, Baden-Baden offers the perfect blend of wellness, history and indulgence.Activity level: Easy, Duration: 3 hours

Germany

Mannheim

Take in the beauty of the heart of the Rhineland, where red-roofed villages line the river and historic castles dot the hills. Cruise on to Rüdesheim this evening.Included ExcursionGuided tour of Heidelberg and Christmas market visitTravel to nearby Heidelberg. The idyllic UNESCO City of Literature has inspired the likes of Mark Twain and famed British artist William Turner. A guided tour of the town will unveil its rich history, starting at the Renaissance ruins of Heidelberg Castle. Afterwards, explore the city’s romantic Christmas markets that are spread throughout its historic squares.DiscoverMORERüdesheim walk with specialty coffee (extra expense)On your visit to the charming town of Rüdesheim, take a short ride on the mini train to taste the specialty coffee in the region. A swig of Rüdesheimer coffee is a treat for wine lovers and coffee fans alike.Activity level: Easy, Duration: 2 hours

Germany

Rüdesheim

Take in the beauty of the heart of the Rhineland, where red-roofed villages line the river and historic castles dot the hills. Cruise on to Rüdesheim this evening.Included ExcursionGuided tour of Heidelberg and Christmas market visitTravel to nearby Heidelberg. The idyllic UNESCO City of Literature has inspired the likes of Mark Twain and famed British artist William Turner. A guided tour of the town will unveil its rich history, starting at the Renaissance ruins of Heidelberg Castle. Afterwards, explore the city’s romantic Christmas markets that are spread throughout its historic squares.DiscoverMORERüdesheim walk with specialty coffee (extra expense)On your visit to the charming town of Rüdesheim, take a short ride on the mini train to taste the specialty coffee in the region. A swig of Rüdesheimer coffee is a treat for wine lovers and coffee fans alike.Activity level: Easy, Duration: 2 hours

Germany

Koblenz

Cruise through the World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge, exemplifying the extraordinary beauty of an area that left the philosophers and artists of the German Romanticism movement entranced. Look out for the iconic Lorelei Rock, where a beautiful siren is said to have lured sailors to their death with her song.Later, arrive in the heart of Koblenz, an ancient city pulled from the pages of a German fairytale. Once a Roman stronghold, Koblenz was established around 8 BC for its strategic value. It’s now a modern park- and flower-filled city with a unique blend of historic and contemporary architecture.Included ExcursionOrientation walk of Koblenz and Christmas market visitJoin your local guide for an insightful walking tour of Koblenz, passing the twin-towered façade of the Church of Our Lady, the point at which two of Europe’s great rivers meet at the German Corner, and Ehrenbreitstein Fortress, one of the largest preserved fortresses in Europe. Afterwards, explore the town’s beautiful Christmas markets.DiscoverMOREMoselle Valley & Cochem Castle visit (extra expense)Perched on a spectacular hill 91 metres (300 ft) above the Moselle Valley is the medieval town of Cochem. Take a walking tour, including a guided visit to the magnificent Cochem Castle, boasting impressive views of the Moselle Valley. The original 12th-century Romanesque style was replaced by King Louis XIV, who ordered his troops to destroy it in 1689. Rebuilt in 1868, he chose the neo-Gothic architecture that we know today as the family's summer residence.Activity level: Difficult/Active, Duration: 5 hours

Germany

Cologne

Cruise to the 2,000-year-old city of Cologne, where the largest Christmas tree in the Rhineland can be found during the holiday season. The city is home to many Christmas markets, and the most spectacular one sits in front of the twin spires of the Neo-Gothic Cologne Cathedral. Look for stalls selling traditional lebkuchen, a beloved round or heart-shaped type of gingerbread that usually includes honey, cardamom or candied fruit.Later, arrive in the vibrant city of Düsseldorf. With its innovative architecture, high-end art scene and passion for fashion, it’s one of the country’s most intoxicating cities. It also has a proud tradition of elaborate Christmas decorations, festive celebrations and seven themed Christmas markets.Included ExcursionGuided tour of Cologne’s Old TownHistory and architecture intertwine in Cologne, where ancient Roman fortifications and medieval structures sit beside buildings that rose following World War II. Your guided tour of Cologne will unveil its illustrious history.Included ExcursionWalking tour of Düsseldorf with Christmas Market visitJoin your local guide on a walking tour of Düsseldorf and discover the Old Town filled with Christmas cheer. Learn about the customs and traditions of the festive season before free time to explore the wonderful Christmas markets scattered throughout the city.DiscoverMORECologne Christmas market & beer experience (extra expense)Spend some time exploring the Christmas markets before setting out to discover the spirited beer culture of Cologne. This lively and flavourful guided tour will take you through the city's legendary brewhouses where you can savour its signature Kölsch, a crisp, golden beer brewed only in this region.Please note this tour occurs at the same time as your included excursion.Activity level: Easy, Duration: 2 hours

Germany

Düsseldorf

Cruise to the 2,000-year-old city of Cologne, where the largest Christmas tree in the Rhineland can be found during the holiday season. The city is home to many Christmas markets, and the most spectacular one sits in front of the twin spires of the Neo-Gothic Cologne Cathedral. Look for stalls selling traditional lebkuchen, a beloved round or heart-shaped type of gingerbread that usually includes honey, cardamom or candied fruit.Later, arrive in the vibrant city of Düsseldorf. With its innovative architecture, high-end art scene and passion for fashion, it’s one of the country’s most intoxicating cities. It also has a proud tradition of elaborate Christmas decorations, festive celebrations and seven themed Christmas markets.Included ExcursionGuided tour of Cologne’s Old TownHistory and architecture intertwine in Cologne, where ancient Roman fortifications and medieval structures sit beside buildings that rose following World War II. Your guided tour of Cologne will unveil its illustrious history.Included ExcursionWalking tour of Düsseldorf with Christmas Market visitJoin your local guide on a walking tour of Düsseldorf and discover the Old Town filled with Christmas cheer. Learn about the customs and traditions of the festive season before free time to explore the wonderful Christmas markets scattered throughout the city.DiscoverMORECologne Christmas market & beer experience (extra expense)Spend some time exploring the Christmas markets before setting out to discover the spirited beer culture of Cologne. This lively and flavourful guided tour will take you through the city's legendary brewhouses where you can savour its signature Kölsch, a crisp, golden beer brewed only in this region.Please note this tour occurs at the same time as your included excursion.Activity level: Easy, Duration: 2 hours

Netherlands

Amsterdam

Welcome to The Netherlands. This is a wonderful destination year-round, but during the Christmas period, its cities sparkle with fairy lights and Christmas cheer. If snow dusts the narrow-cobbled streets, you’ll find the Dutch warming up with oliebollen and appelbeignets – traditional deep-fried treats sold from chalet-style stalls that pop up across Amsterdam’s many Christmas markets.Included ExcursionVisit to Festive AmsterdamAmsterdam’s Christmas markets are a magical blend of festive lights, cosy stalls, and Dutch winter charm, accented with the scent of warm treats like stroopwafels and oliebollen. Popular spots like Museumplein’s Ice Village and the Funky Xmas Market in Westergas offer everything from handmade gifts to mulled wine and live music. Set against the backdrop of Amsterdam’s iconic canals, the markets create a warm, joyful atmosphere perfect for holiday shopping and seasonal cheer.DiscoverMOREDutch Delights (extra expense)Rug up and explore the Dutch capital on foot. Admire the highlights of this ancient city while savouring delicious Dutch treats, such as pickled herring – a favourite street food – tasty cheeses and mouth-watering poffertjes, bite-sized fluffy pancakes.Activity level: Easy, Duration: 3 hoursDiscoverMOREHidden Gems tour of Amsterdam (extra expense)Explore a quieter, more authentic side of Amsterdam on this relaxed and personal tour through the city’s hidden treasures. Visit the historic Jordaan area and a charming chocolate shop for a sweet treat. Continue through some of the city’s most beautiful streets to Our Lord in the Attic, a 17th-century house with a fully preserved Catholic church in its attic. Finish with a beer and snacks at a local brewery.Activity level: Moderate, Duration: 2.5 hours

Netherlands

Amsterdam

After breakfast, bid farewell to your fellow guests and Emerald Star-Ship as you are transferred to the airport, taking memories of quintessential German & French villages and the magic of Christmas with you.Due to new restrictions on cruise ships at Amsterdam’s city docks, your cruise is now likely to embark and/or disembark at a port outside central Amsterdam. If your ship does not have a central Amsterdam docking, Emerald Cruises will provide a central Amsterdam meeting point and transfers to your ship as required. These changes are required by local authorities and are in line with our booking terms which allow changes to berthing or dock locations and ports where operationally necessary. You will be advised of the confirmed docking location prior to departure.This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.

Overview

A classic journey on the Rhine, Main, and Danube rivers promises spectacular landscapes, rich culture, and fascinating history, where world-class cities are complemented by romantic towns.

Cruise through the heart of Europe’s finest cities, many of whom host large traditional Christmas markets. There’s nothing quite like taking a Rhine River cruise at Christmas time, as you’ll be able to take advantage of the hundreds of stalls all selling ideal Christmas presents for the folks back home.

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Suite

Owner's One-Bedroom Suite

A limited number of Owner’s One-Bedroom Suites are available on each Star-Ship, making them our most exclusive suites. A separate living room and bedroom area offers a greater amount of space and a walk-in wardrobe provides ample storage room.

All Suites & Staterooms feature:

  • Plush queen-size or twin hotel-style beds draped in soft linens
  • En-suite bathroom with a revitalising shower, a selection of luxury ESPA toiletries
  • hair dryer
  • bathrobes and slippers
  • Bottled water restocked daily
  • Combined flat-screen HDTV and infotainment system
  • Individual climate control
  • Personal safe
  • Umbrella
  • Telephone
  • Walking sticks
  • Refillable water flask

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Suite

Grand Balcony Suite

Grand Balcony Suites come with an outdoor private balcony area, complete with open-air system. A pillow menu ensures you have the best night’s sleep possible, and a continental breakfast can be delivered to your room on request.

All Suites & Staterooms feature:

  • Plush queen-size or twin hotel-style beds draped in soft linens
  • En-suite bathroom with a revitalising shower, a selection of luxury ESPA toiletries
  • hair dryer
  • bathrobes and slippers
  • Bottled water restocked daily
  • Combined flat-screen HDTV and infotainment system
  • Individual climate control
  • Personal safe
  • Umbrella
  • Telephone
  • Walking sticks
  • Refillable water flask

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Balcony

Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite

These chic suites are perfect for viewing the scenery pass by. Our innovative all-weather balcony system allows the floor-to-ceiling window to drop down electronically and an indoor decked area allows you to enjoy the sights in all their glory.

All Suites & Staterooms feature:

  • Plush queen-size or twin hotel-style beds draped in soft linens
  • En-suite bathroom with a revitalising shower, a selection of luxury ESPA toiletries
  • hair dryer
  • bathrobes and slippers
  • Bottled water restocked daily
  • Combined flat-screen HDTV and infotainment system
  • Individual climate control
  • Personal safe
  • Umbrella
  • Telephone
  • Walking sticks
  • Refillable water flask

Outside

Emerald Stateroom

Staterooms boast a spacious layout when it comes to European small ship river cruising. A picture window provides plenty of natural light, and your en-suite bathroom will be fully stocked with luxurious ESPA toiletries.

All Suites & Staterooms feature:

  • Plush queen-size or twin hotel-style beds draped in soft linens
  • En-suite bathroom with a revitalising shower, a selection of luxury ESPA toiletries
  • hair dryer
  • bathrobes and slippers
  • Bottled water restocked daily
  • Combined flat-screen HDTV and infotainment system
  • Individual climate control
  • Personal safe
  • Umbrella
  • Telephone
  • Walking sticks
  • Refillable water flask

Outside

Emerald Single Stateroom

Select Star-Ships on the Danube, Moselle, Rhine and Rhône rivers come with tastefully-appointed cabins specially built for solo travellers, with excellent levels of comfort to guarantee the perfect accommodation for one.

All Suites & Staterooms feature:

  • Plush queen-size or twin hotel-style beds draped in soft linens
  • En-suite bathroom with a revitalising shower, a selection of luxury ESPA toiletries
  • hair dryer
  • bathrobes and slippers
  • Bottled water restocked daily
  • Combined flat-screen HDTV and infotainment system
  • Individual climate control
  • Personal safe
  • Umbrella
  • Telephone
  • Walking sticks
  • Refillable water flask

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casual

Reflections Restaurant

Our premiere on board dining spot

With open seating and elegant design, our Reflections Restaurant sets the benchmark in on board dining across our fleet of boutique Star-Ships throughout Europe and Southeast Asia. Here, savour delightful chef-prepared meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with dishes inspired by local flavours and a few favourites you may recognise from home.

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casual

The Terrace

Dine alfresco

A beautifully decked area in the forward of our European Star-Ships, The Terrace provides a lovely retreat from which to enjoy a light snack or refreshing drink. Depending on the ship, this partly indoor and outdoor space is a spectacular vantage point from which to soak up the scenery, whatever the weather. This peaceful setting is also a great spot to enjoy a drink as the wonders of the landscape pass by.

healthy

Healthy Dining

The freshest ingredients
Dine on delectable meals made with fresh, locally sourced produce.

Lunch with a view
Enjoy healthy meals while soaking in the stunning views and fresh air.

A range of dietary options
Sample amazing vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free meal options^. ^Please inform your crew of any dietary requirements.

bbq

Sky Barbecue

The Sky Barbecue can be found on the Sun Deck.

Cinema

Daytime Pool & Bar/Evening Cinema

Exclusive to Emerald Cruises Star-Ships cruising Central Europe and France, the innovative heated indoor pool with is a tranquil haven to swim and take in the passing river views by day. As dusk falls, the floor gently rises to cover the pool, and the space transforms into an intimate cinema or Riverside Lounge – a blissful setting to enjoy magical vistas, read, or socialise to gentle music and soft lighting. Morning stretch sessions will also invigorate you, before seamlessly transforming back into a luxurious pool for the day. Enjoy a touch of innovation on board your Emerald Cruises Star-Ship in Central Europe and France with the heated indoor pool. With expansive river views, it is a tranquil setting to relax by day and on select evenings, the space transforms into a cosy indoor cinema.

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Bar, Lounge

Horizon Bar and Lounge

Peruse our extensive drinks menu from the comfort of the Horizon Bar, the principal lounge area on board our boutique Star-Ships. Fitted with comfortable seating, a well-stocked bar and dancefloor and entertainment space, this is the premier spot to relax, unwind or dance the night away at the end of another exceptional day on the river. During the day, you'll also find unlimited coffee and speciality teas here

Relax, socialise and dance the night away in the contemporary lounge and bar. On selected nights enjoy evening entertainment or simply relax and unwind with your favourite drink from the well-stocked bar. Throughout the day, you can enjoy complimentary tea and coffee, making this an inviting space to pause, connect and take in the on board comforts.

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Sun Deck

Sun Deck

The Sun Deck is your panoramic outdoor space on-board Emerald Sun and Emerald Dawn, a place to relax, unwind and take in inspiring views of the river. Complete with deck chairs, walking track and games area, you’ll find the Sun Deck at the very top of your Emerald Star-Ship.

Sun Deck

Games Area and Golf Putting Green

Feel free to enjoy our games area and golf putting green. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the scenery while you challenge new-found friends.

Reception

Reception

If you want to purchase a drinks package, enquire about a DiscoverMORE excursion or simply catch-up with our friendly crew, you’ll always receive a warm welcome in our on-board reception area.

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Pool

Emerald Serenity Pool

Designed for Portugal’s warm climate, Emerald Radiance features a luxurious spa-style Serenity Pool on the Sun Deck, ideal for a refreshing dip as sun-drenched landscapes glide by. Morning wellness sessions set a tranquil tone for the day, and on movie nights this alfresco retreat transforms into an open-air cinema, with films playing beneath a canopy of stars.

Pool, Wellness

Wellness Area

A space dedicated to mind, body, and soul. Stay active on board with a fitness session in the well-equipped gym, or indulge in a blissful range of relaxing and invigorating spa treatments (at an additional cost).

A relaxing massage

Unwind with a massage courtesy of our expertly trained masseuses.

A dedicated space

Settle into a professional massage therapy room designed around serenity.

Every thoughtful detail

From soft gowns to luxurious ESPA toiletries, you’ll enjoy unparalleled comfort.

Gym, Wellness

Fitness Area

Your well-equipped gym

Keep up your workout regime in our well-equipped, modern gym.

Salon

Hairdressers

In need of a quick trim during your travels? On-board the Emerald Sun, Emerald Luna and Emerald Dawn, you can treat yourself at any point during your cruise with our dedicated hairdressers – perfect if you’re looking to get spruced up for a special evening.

Jogging or Walking Track

Walking Track

Stretch your legs and take in the sights as you enjoy a stroll on our purpose-built walking track. Taking you around the outside of the Sun Deck, it’s a great addition for those who like to stay active on their travels.