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Christmas Markets on the Rhine (Smithsonian Journeys)

Christmas Markets on the Rhine (Smithsonian Journeys)

About This Cruise

Experience the enchantment of some of Europe’s most beloved Christmas Markets on our Christmas Markets Along the Rhine: A River Cruise from Amsterdam to Basel, featuring AmaWaterways’ signature Holiday Cruise traditions on the most elegantly decorated ships on the rivers. Delight in the dazzling holiday lights of Amsterdam and sample local flavors in Utrecht and Düsseldorf. Take in spectacular views of the castle-laden Rhine Gorge and venture to hilltop castles that have guarded the river for centuries. Visit charming towns like Rüdesheim and Heidelberg, rich in holiday traditions and local crafts, and immerse yourself in the enchanting Christmas Markets of Cologne, Strasbourg and Colmar, stopping to enjoy seasonal treats and warming mulled wines. Plus, enjoy specially curated tours of the Rijksmuseum, the Roman ruins of Cologne, the Technik Museum in Speyer and even the European Parliament. You will also have the unique opportunity to engage with and learn from two Smithsonian Journeys Experts throughout your journey whose specialized expertise will further immerse you in the history, art or culture of the region.

Type

River, Luxury

Ship

AmaViola

Departure Date

5 December 2026

Cruise Line

AmaWaterways

Duration

7 Nights

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

Itinerary

Netherlands

Amsterdam

Amsterdam, the Netherlands. Arrive in Amsterdam and board your elegantly decorated river cruise ship. You’ll have free time before and after dinner to take a stroll through the city, perhaps to see the Christmas tree in Dam Square or watch locals ice skate in front of the Rijksmuseum. Catch a glimpse of the radiant installations of the Amsterdam Light Festival, set up annually along the city’s canals. (Meals: D)

Netherlands

Amsterdam

Amsterdam/Utrecht. Step into centuries of history at Slot Zuylen, a castle first built around 1250 and shaped by generations that followed. A significant renovation in the mid-17th century transformed the castle. This, along with smaller changes over the centuries have created a rich tapestry of architectural styles, evident as you move through its rooms and corridors. Beyond the walls, the gardens offer a more peaceful, quieter retreat. Together, the castle and its gardens make Slot Zuylen a place where history feels layered, lived in, and very much alive.

Netherlands

Utrecht

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Germany

Düsseldorf

Düsseldorf or Cologne, Germany. Spend a relaxing morning cruising through scenic countryside to Düsseldorf. Stay in Düsseldorf for an afternoon bike ride or a walking tour of the historic center and its Christmas Market. Or head to Cologne, where the diverse architecture ranges from Romanesque churches to avant-garde buildings erected after the Allied bombings of World War II. Choose between a guided walk through the Old Town visiting the Fischmarkt and seeing Great St. Martin Church, or join an archaeological walking tour of its extensive Roman sites and the Belgian House where many Roman artifacts are on display. Venture into one of Europe’s largest and most renowned Christmas Markets, set against the soaring backdrop of the 13th-century Dom Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll have free time to wander among the stalls, sipping a glühwein if you wish, or nibbling on lebkuchen (gingerbread). (Meals: B,L,D)

Germany

Rüdesheim am Rhein

Rhine Gorge and Rüdesheim. Enter the spectacular Upper Middle Rhine Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site also known as the Rhine Gorge. Here, more than 40 medieval castles perch on bluffs high over the river and charming villages dot the riverbanks, twinkling with holiday spirit at this time of year. Hear the legend of Lorelei Rock as you glide toward Rüdesheim, a gateway to the Rheingau wine region. Choose from a range of excursions: visit a wine cellar for a tasting of Rheingau wines, go on a hike or a guided bike ride, or ride a gondola over the vineyards, taking in stunning views. Then experience holiday traditions from around the world at the town’s Christmas Market. Later, see whimsical self-playing instruments at Siegfried’s Mechanical Instrument Cabinet, or taste one of the town’s specialties: Rüdesheimer coffee. (Meals: B,L,D)

Germany

Ludwigshafen

Heidelberg or Speyer. From the riverside town of Ludwigshafen, explore your choice of historic Rhineland cities and their festive Christmas Markets. Visit Heidelberg, a city that will capture your heart with its mighty castle and centuries-old university. Here, wander along one of Europe’s longest pedestrian shopping streets, the Hauptstrasse, soaking up the yuletide celebrations at the town’s Christmas Market. Or hike along the historic Philosopher’s Path, enjoying views of Heidelberg’s castle and the city below, then enjoy free time to browse the Christmas Markets. Alternatively, bike along the River Neckar to medieval Ladenburg and visit its Marktplatz, or explore one of Germany’s oldest cities, Speyer, known for the largest Romanesque cathedral in Europe, a UNESCO World Heritage Site; and tour the Technik Museum to see a fascinating collection that includes vintage cars, a submarine and a space shuttle. You’ll have time to visit its Christmas Market in front of the Old Mint (Alten Münze). (Meals: B,L,D)

France

Strasbourg

Strasbourg, France. Strasbourg becomes even more enchanting during the season of Advent. Its Christkindelsmärik, dating back to 1570, is the oldest Christmas Market in France and one of the largest. Walk through the historic town center on the Grande Île, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and through the lovely Petite France district, where timeless, half-timbered houses line winding canals. See the Cathédrale de Nôtre Dame and its famous astronomical clock and then delve into the town’s famous Christmas Market, perhaps sampling a vin chaud or one of the city’s famous Christmas cookies. Alternatively, opt to visit the seat of the European Parliament on a guided tour (subject to availability). You may also choose to explore Strasbourg’s different neighborhoods on a guided bike tour. Later this afternoon, opt to visit the historic spa town of Baden-Baden and its romantic Christmas Markets. (Meals: B,L,D)

Germany

Breisach

Colmar or Breisach, Germany. Go ashore in the German town of Breisach, poised on the border between the Alsace region of France and Germany’s Black Forest. In the fairytale Alsatian town of Colmar, experience a whimsical blend of French and German culture, and choose to tour the home of August Bartholdi, the sculptor of the Statue of Liberty, or explore the town’s wonderful Christmas Markets. Alternatively, venture to the UNESCO-designated Neuf-Brisach Citadel, or ride a bicycle through the countryside around Breisach. (Meals: B,L,D)

Switzerland

Basel

Basel. Disembark the ship and bid farewell to Basel as you prepare for your return flight home. (B)

Overview

Experience the enchantment of some of Europe’s most beloved Christmas Markets on our Christmas Markets Along the Rhine: A River Cruise from Amsterdam to Basel, featuring AmaWaterways’ signature Holiday Cruise traditions on the most elegantly decorated ships on the rivers. Delight in the dazzling holiday lights of Amsterdam and sample local flavors in Utrecht and Düsseldorf. Take in spectacular views of the castle-laden Rhine Gorge and venture to hilltop castles that have guarded the river for centuries. Visit charming towns like Rüdesheim and Heidelberg, rich in holiday traditions and local crafts, and immerse yourself in the enchanting Christmas Markets of Cologne, Strasbourg and Colmar, stopping to enjoy seasonal treats and warming mulled wines. Plus, enjoy specially curated tours of the Rijksmuseum, the Roman ruins of Cologne, the Technik Museum in Speyer and even the European Parliament. You will also have the unique opportunity to engage with and learn from two Smithsonian Journeys Experts throughout your journey whose specialized expertise will further immerse you in the history, art or culture of the region.

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Suite

Suite

Spacious Staterooms and Suites

Unwind in thoughtfully designed rooms with room to relax and enjoy the river views. Elegant décor and comfortable spaces create a peaceful retreat to start and end the day.

Balconies and Panoramic Views

Take in ever-changing scenery from your room, whether through a picture window, French balcony, or our signature twin balcony design. Each offers its own beautiful perspective of the river.

Comfort and Understated Luxury

Experience the art of subtle indulgence in every room. Soft fabrics, marble-tiled bathrooms, and thoughtful touches elevate each room into a sanctuary of effortless luxury.

  • Violin Deck
  • Suite
  • French Balcony & Outside Balcony

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Balcony

Category AA

Spacious Staterooms and Suites

Unwind in thoughtfully designed rooms with room to relax and enjoy the river views. Elegant décor and comfortable spaces create a peaceful retreat to start and end the day.

Balconies and Panoramic Views

Take in ever-changing scenery from your room, whether through a picture window, French balcony, or our signature twin balcony design. Each offers its own beautiful perspective of the river.

Comfort and Understated Luxury

Experience the art of subtle indulgence in every room. Soft fabrics, marble-tiled bathrooms, and thoughtful touches elevate each room into a sanctuary of effortless luxury.

  • Violin Deck
  • Category AA
  • French Balcony & Outside Balcony

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Balcony

Category AB

Spacious Staterooms and Suites

Unwind in thoughtfully designed rooms with room to relax and enjoy the river views. Elegant décor and comfortable spaces create a peaceful retreat to start and end the day.

Balconies and Panoramic Views

Take in ever-changing scenery from your room, whether through a picture window, French balcony, or our signature twin balcony design. Each offers its own beautiful perspective of the river.

Comfort and Understated Luxury

Experience the art of subtle indulgence in every room. Soft fabrics, marble-tiled bathrooms, and thoughtful touches elevate each room into a sanctuary of effortless luxury.

  • Cello Deck
  • Category AB
  • French Balcony & Outside Balcony

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Balcony

Category BA

Spacious Staterooms and Suites

Unwind in thoughtfully designed rooms with room to relax and enjoy the river views. Elegant décor and comfortable spaces create a peaceful retreat to start and end the day.

Balconies and Panoramic Views

Take in ever-changing scenery from your room, whether through a picture window, French balcony, or our signature twin balcony design. Each offers its own beautiful perspective of the river.

Comfort and Understated Luxury

Experience the art of subtle indulgence in every room. Soft fabrics, marble-tiled bathrooms, and thoughtful touches elevate each room into a sanctuary of effortless luxury.

  • Violin Deck
  • Category BA
  • French Balcony & Outside Balcony

View More Images
Balcony

Category BB

Spacious Staterooms and Suites

Unwind in thoughtfully designed rooms with room to relax and enjoy the river views. Elegant décor and comfortable spaces create a peaceful retreat to start and end the day.

Balconies and Panoramic Views

Take in ever-changing scenery from your room, whether through a picture window, French balcony, or our signature twin balcony design. Each offers its own beautiful perspective of the river.

Comfort and Understated Luxury

Experience the art of subtle indulgence in every room. Soft fabrics, marble-tiled bathrooms, and thoughtful touches elevate each room into a sanctuary of effortless luxury.

  • Cello Deck
  • Category BB
  • French Balcony & Outside Balcony

Balcony

Category CA

Spacious Staterooms and Suites

Unwind in thoughtfully designed rooms with room to relax and enjoy the river views. Elegant décor and comfortable spaces create a peaceful retreat to start and end the day.

Balconies and Panoramic Views

Take in ever-changing scenery from your room, whether through a picture window, French balcony, or our signature twin balcony design. Each offers its own beautiful perspective of the river.

Comfort and Understated Luxury

Experience the art of subtle indulgence in every room. Soft fabrics, marble-tiled bathrooms, and thoughtful touches elevate each room into a sanctuary of effortless luxury.

  • Cello Deck
  • Category CA
  • French Balcony

Balcony

Category CB

Spacious Staterooms and Suites

Unwind in thoughtfully designed rooms with room to relax and enjoy the river views. Elegant décor and comfortable spaces create a peaceful retreat to start and end the day.

Balconies and Panoramic Views

Take in ever-changing scenery from your room, whether through a picture window, French balcony, or our signature twin balcony design. Each offers its own beautiful perspective of the river.

Comfort and Understated Luxury

Experience the art of subtle indulgence in every room. Soft fabrics, marble-tiled bathrooms, and thoughtful touches elevate each room into a sanctuary of effortless luxury.

  • Violin Deck
  • Category CB
  • French Balcony

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Outside

Category D

Spacious Staterooms and Suites

Unwind in thoughtfully designed rooms with room to relax and enjoy the river views. Elegant décor and comfortable spaces create a peaceful retreat to start and end the day.

Comfort and Understated Luxury

Experience the art of subtle indulgence in every room. Soft fabrics, marble-tiled bathrooms, and thoughtful touches elevate each room into a sanctuary of effortless luxury.

  • Piano Deck
  • Category D
  • Fixed Windows

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Outside

Category E

Spacious Staterooms and Suites

Unwind in thoughtfully designed rooms with room to relax and enjoy the river views. Elegant décor and comfortable spaces create a peaceful retreat to start and end the day.

Comfort and Understated Luxury

Experience the art of subtle indulgence in every room. Soft fabrics, marble-tiled bathrooms, and thoughtful touches elevate each room into a sanctuary of effortless luxury.

  • Piano Deck
  • Category E
  • Fixed Windows

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classic

Journeys Restaurant

Experience award-winning cuisine inspired by the regions you sail through. Every dish is crafted from the freshest local ingredients and presented with elegance, turning each meal into a celebration of flavor, artistry, and place.

Regional Flavors and Fresh Ingredients

Taste the essence of every destination through cuisine crafted from locally sourced ingredients and using regional traditions, bringing the authentic flavors of your travel destination directly to your table.

Perfectly Paired Wines and Beverages

Pair dishes with regional wines, beers, or handcrafted cocktails, thoughtfully chosen by our sommeliers to complement each dish and enhance your dining experience throughout the journey.

chef

The Chef’s Table

Enjoy an intimate, multi-course dinner where culinary artistry shines at The Chef’s Table, available on select sailings. Watch as our chefs prepare each course before your eyes, pairing exquisite flavors with impeccable service.

Bar, Lounge

Main Lounge & Bar

With fewer guests on board, you can enjoy the luxury of space to unwind, relax and reconnect with your loved ones. Our public areas, including lounges and restaurants, are never overcrowded.

Shop

The Gift Shop

The Gift Shop sells special occasion gifts and souvenirs, news papers and magazines and some convenience goods.

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Local Entertainment, Musicians

Onboard Entertainment

Onboard Performances and Musical Evenings

Throughout many voyages, the ship’s lounge transforms into a stage for local ensembles, jazz duos, and classical quartets

Select sailings have Music Hosts, conductors and musicians who guide you through historical context, lead onboard performances, and deepen your connection with the region’s musical heritage.

Live Regional Performances On Ship

Even on non-themed sailings, enjoy musical offerings like local performances, curated playlists, and connections to the musical stories of the rivers you traverse

Library

Library

The Library can be found on the Violin Deck.

Reception

Lobby

Guests will first enter the lobby when they embark on their river cruise.

Gym

Fitness Room

Stay energized with fitness classes, a session in the gym, or an afternoon pickleball game on board, or seek an active hike or bike ride on shore.

Pool, Whirlpool/Jacuzzi

Sun Deck Pool

Find calm in beautifully designed areas made for rest and reflection, whether it’s a quiet lounge, the Sun Deck, or simply watching the river drift by.

Spa, Wellness

Massage Services

Rejuvenate body and spirit with soothing spa and massage treatments, offering the perfect balance of indulgence and serenity.

Salon

Hair Salon

Whether you’d like to dress up for the captain’s special dinner or a night out on the town, you can complete your look by getting your hair styled in our salon.

Exercise Class

Fitness Classes

Start the day with intention through gentle stretching, yoga, or quiet moments on deck, surrounded by fresh air and flowing scenery.