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Christmas Markets on the Rhine & Lucerne - Zurich

Christmas Markets on the Rhine & Lucerne - Zurich

About This Cruise

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 Luna

Departure Date

8 December 2026

Cruise Line

Emerald Cruises

Duration

7 Nights

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

Itinerary

Netherlands

Amsterdam

Welcome to The Netherlands, a postcard-worthy destination of picturesque canals, quintessential cafés and narrow cobblestone streets that sparkle with fairy lights and Christmas cheer during the festive season.You’ll be met at the airport by a member of the friendly greetings team and transferred to your contemporary Emerald Star-Ship. After boarding, you'll have some free time to explore and soak up the festive atmosphere.

Netherlands

Amsterdam

Spend the day exploring the wintery surrounds. 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.This evening, join your fellow guests for a welcome dinner on board.Included ExcursionCanal cruiseBoard a glass-top canal boat for a tour down the Dutch capital’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed canal system, passing historic merchant houses that reflect the bygone era of the Dutch Golden Age, a time when the Dutch empire was considered one of the most influential in the world. Throughout the city, you’ll explore the delightful Christmas stalls, each surrounded by people in their finest knitwear drinking hot mugs of mulled wine and enjoying traditional festive foods.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.

Germany

Düsseldorf

Cross the German border and arrive in the vibrant city of Düsseldorf this morning. 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 various themed Christmas markets.Later, 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.Included ExcursionWalking tour of DuesseldorfJoin 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.Included ExcursionCologne City tour with Christmas MarketsHistory 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. Later, enjoy a mug of traditional glühwein in the Roncalliplatz Christmas market in front of the cathedral, the largest in the city.DiscoverMOREGerman 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.Activity level: Easy, Duration: 2 hours

Germany

Cologne

Cross the German border and arrive in the vibrant city of Düsseldorf this morning. 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 various themed Christmas markets.Later, 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.Included ExcursionWalking tour of DuesseldorfJoin 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.Included ExcursionCologne City tour with Christmas MarketsHistory 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. Later, enjoy a mug of traditional glühwein in the Roncalliplatz Christmas market in front of the cathedral, the largest in the city.DiscoverMOREGerman 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.Activity level: Easy, Duration: 2 hours

Germany

Koblenz

Today, arrive in the heart of Koblenz, an ancient city that seems 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.Later, 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.Included ExcursionOrientation walk of KoblenzJoin 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

Mannheim

Take in the beauty of the heart of the Rhineland, where red-roofed villages line the river and historic castles dot the hills.Included ExcursionGuided tour of Heidelberg & 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.

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 market visitYour 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.

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.Included ExcursionGuided tour of Breisach & 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 Christmas Market in FreiburgExperience the magic of the Freiburg Christmas Market on a festive walking tour through the city's charming old town. Stroll among beautifully decorated stalls, discover local holiday traditions, and warm up with a cup of aromatic mulled wine. Along the way, enjoy delicious homemade Christmas cookies, adding an authentic taste of the season to this cozy and memorable holiday experience.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

Switzerland

Basel

Welcome to Switzerland and the quaint Rhine-side town of Basel. After breakfast, you will be transferred by coach to Lucerne, where your Tour Director will introduce you to the city’s highlights on a guided tour, including the Chapel Bridge and picturesque Old Town, before you settle in for a two-night stay.Included ExcursionGuided city tour of Lucerne

Switzerland

Lucerne

Welcome to Switzerland and the quaint Rhine-side town of Basel. After breakfast, you will be transferred by coach to Lucerne, where your Tour Director will introduce you to the city’s highlights on a guided tour, including the Chapel Bridge and picturesque Old Town, before you settle in for a two-night stay.Included ExcursionGuided city tour of Lucerne

Switzerland

Lucerne

Lucerne is known around the world for its spectacular setting, perfectly encapsulating a traditional Swiss city with a backdrop of snow-topped mountain ranges. What a better time than Christmas season to visit the city with an additional touch of magic! Lucerne becomes a contemplative city of lights with decoration all over the old town. Enjoy time at leisure to wander through the beautifully preserved Old Town, stroll along the picturesque waterfront, or relax in one of its inviting cafés. For a truly memorable experience, you may wish to join our optional excursion to majestic Mount Rigi, where panoramic alpine vistas await.When the sun sets later today, why not stroll around the old town and visit some of the several small Christmas markets where you can enjoy mulled wine and other typical Christmas treats.DiscoverMORETrain & cable car ride to Rigi – Weggis (extra expense)

Switzerland

Lucerne

This morning, transfer by coach from Lucerne to the cosmopolitan city of Zurich, known for its towering church steeples, winding cobbled lanes and contemporary centre. When you arrive, enjoy a guided tour of Zurich, followed by free time to explore the city's magical Christmas atmosphere. The central Bahnhofstrasse is all lighted up with 23,000 light crystals spread over a distance of one kilometre: a beautiful spectacle for the eyes!Included ExcursionGuided tour of Zurich

Switzerland

Zurich

This morning, transfer by coach from Lucerne to the cosmopolitan city of Zurich, known for its towering church steeples, winding cobbled lanes and contemporary centre. When you arrive, enjoy a guided tour of Zurich, followed by free time to explore the city's magical Christmas atmosphere. The central Bahnhofstrasse is all lighted up with 23,000 light crystals spread over a distance of one kilometre: a beautiful spectacle for the eyes!Included ExcursionGuided tour of Zurich

Switzerland

Zurich

After breakfast, it is time to bid farewell to your fellow guests and transfer to the airport, taking memories of the Swiss traditional Christmas markets and traditions with you.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.
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Suite

Owners 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.

Suite inclusions

  • Outdoor private balcony with open-air system
  • Separate bedroom and lounge area
  • Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds
  • Pillow menu
  • En-suite bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hair dryer, on-board complimentary bathrobes and slippers
  • Walk-in wardrobe
  • Complimentary in-suite mini- bar, restocked daily with wine, beer and soft drinks
  • Complimentary Nespresso machine
  • Continental breakfast, pre-dinner canapés and after-dinner sweet treats served in your suite
  • Four items of laundry per day
  • Complimentary water, restocked daily
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi
  • Use of an iPad
  • Flat screen TV and infotainment system
  • Individual climate control
  • Personal safe
  • Umbrella
  • Telephone
  • Walking sticks
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.

Suite Inclusions

  • Outdoor private balcony with open-air system
  • Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds
  • Pillow menu
  • En-suite bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hair dryer, on-board complimentary bathrobes and slippers
  • Mini-bar available at own expense
  • Complimentary Nespresso machine
  • Continental breakfast, pre-dinner canapés and after-dinner sweet treats served in your suite
  • Two items of laundry per day
  • Complimentary water, restocked daily
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi
  • Flat screen TV and infotainment system
  • Individual climate control
  • Personal safe
  • Umbrella
  • Telephone
  • Walking sticks

Suite

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. 

Suite Inclusions

  • Indoor balcony with open-air system
  • Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds
  • En-suite bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hair dryer, on-board complimentary bathrobes and slippers
  • Mini-bar available at own expense
  • Complimentary water, restocked daily
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi
  • Flat screen TV and infotainment system
  • Individual climate control
  • Personal safe
  • Umbrella
  • Telephone
  • Walking sticks
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.

Inclusions

  • Picture window
  • Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds
  • En-suite bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hair dryer, on-board complimentary bathrobes and slippers
  • Mini-bar available at own expense
  • Complimentary water, restocked daily
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi
  • Flat screen TV and infotainment system
  • Individual climate control
  • Personal safe
  • Umbrella
  • Telephone
  • Walking sticks
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. 

Inclusions

  • Picture window
  • Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds
  • En-suite bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hair dryer, on-board complimentary bathrobes and slippers
  • Mini-bar available at own expense
  • Complimentary water, restocked daily
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi
  • Flat screen TV and infotainment system
  • Individual climate control
  • Personal safe
  • Umbrella
  • Telephone
  • Walking sticks
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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.

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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

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Sun Deck

Sun Deck

From the stunning rooftop deck of our Star-Ships, enjoy panoramic views of the passing landscapes and a selection of activities to keep you entertained.

Cinema

Daytime Pool & Bar/Evening Cinema

Pool by day, cinema by night

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.

Activity, Exclusive

The Wheelhouse

The wheelhouse is open for all guests to visit during a river cruise itinerary. If you have a particular interest in river navigation, the wheelhouse can provide a wonderful insight into the role of the captain and the intricacies of working through locks.

Reception

Reception

Whether you want to buy a drinks package, learn about our optional excursions or simply talk with our friendly and attentive crew, the reception is the place to go for questions and enquiries during your time on-board.

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Pool

Pool

Getting your laps in
Spacious on board pools provide plenty of room for swimming.

Pool, Wellness

Wellness Area

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

Take a stroll, stretch those legs and drink in the views on our dedicated walking track. Spanning the perimeter of the ship, it’s there to help you stay active on-board.