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Rhine Christmas Markets with Switzerland

Rhine Christmas Markets with Switzerland

About This Cruise

Christmas markets delight

Admire festive decorations and twinkling lights along streets and squares – even your Scenic Space-Ship will be decked out in all the Christmas finery.

Delight in the charms of a European Christmas as you cruise along the Rhine. Visit charming Strasbourg, take in the spa resort town of Baden-Baden and Heidelberg Castle. Marvel at the World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge, explore Cologne’s Christmas markets, and discover the canals of Amsterdam. Throughout your journey, you will be enchanted by the magical traditions of Christmas, including the fragrant aroma of Gluhwein, roasted chestnuts and bustling markets bursting with festive excitement.

Type

River, Luxury

Ship

Scenic Ruby

Departure Date

3 December 2027

Cruise Line

Scenic

Duration

7 Nights

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

Itinerary

Switzerland

Zurich

Welcome to Zurich. The largest city in Switzerland and a global financial centre, it hugs the shoreline of the spectacular Lake Zurich. Check in to your luxurious hotel for an overnight stay and the start of your Swiss journey.

Switzerland

Zurich

This morning, set off on a walking tour with a local guide. Zurich is one of the world’s great walking cities, with many pedestrian-only streets and historic bridges. Wander along the Bahnhofstrasse, the city’s main street lined with glamorous boutiques and international flagship stores.This afternoon arrive in Bern. Set on the River Aare, Bern is World Heritage-listed for its medieval Old Town, charming Renaissance fountains, and landmarks like the Zytglogge (Clock Tower) and Bern Cathedral. Check in to your luxury hotel for an overnight stay. Scenic Freechoice: Explore Bern with one of these Scenic Freechoice excursions:Orientation tour of Bern: Your expert Scenic Tour Director will take you on a short walk to explore this delightful city. See its many fountains, sandstone facades and narrow streets, and visit Bear Park, home to a family of bears that have lived along the river banks since 1857.Swiss chocolate tasting: Switzerland is known for its chocolate, which is considered to be some of the best in the world. Enjoy a tasting of different praline and other varieties at a local producer as you learn about chocolate production and its importance for the local economy.

Switzerland

Bern

This morning, set off on a walking tour with a local guide. Zurich is one of the world’s great walking cities, with many pedestrian-only streets and historic bridges. Wander along the Bahnhofstrasse, the city’s main street lined with glamorous boutiques and international flagship stores.This afternoon arrive in Bern. Set on the River Aare, Bern is World Heritage-listed for its medieval Old Town, charming Renaissance fountains, and landmarks like the Zytglogge (Clock Tower) and Bern Cathedral. Check in to your luxury hotel for an overnight stay. Scenic Freechoice: Explore Bern with one of these Scenic Freechoice excursions:Orientation tour of Bern: Your expert Scenic Tour Director will take you on a short walk to explore this delightful city. See its many fountains, sandstone facades and narrow streets, and visit Bear Park, home to a family of bears that have lived along the river banks since 1857.Swiss chocolate tasting: Switzerland is known for its chocolate, which is considered to be some of the best in the world. Enjoy a tasting of different praline and other varieties at a local producer as you learn about chocolate production and its importance for the local economy.

Switzerland

Bern

This morning, travel to Montreux. Located on the shores of picturesque Lake Geneva, it’s famous for its natural beauty, connection to legendary writers and love of jazz. Take a short orientation tour of the town to admire the lakeside promenade, cobblestone streets and historic buildings. Later, check in to your luxury hotel for a two-night stay. Scenic EnrichChaplin Museum: Learn about the life and work of one of the most influential early film stars, Charlie Chaplin. Experience an exclusive after-hours visit to the Chaplin Museum, set inside his former home.

Switzerland

Montreux

This morning, travel to Montreux. Located on the shores of picturesque Lake Geneva, it’s famous for its natural beauty, connection to legendary writers and love of jazz. Take a short orientation tour of the town to admire the lakeside promenade, cobblestone streets and historic buildings. Later, check in to your luxury hotel for a two-night stay. Scenic EnrichChaplin Museum: Learn about the life and work of one of the most influential early film stars, Charlie Chaplin. Experience an exclusive after-hours visit to the Chaplin Museum, set inside his former home.

Switzerland

Montreux

This morning, visit Chillon Castle. Set on the shore of Lake Geneva, it was first built in the 11th century and is one of the most visited medieval castles in Europe. Join a tour with a local guide and learn how this iconic castle has inspired poets and writers like Victor Hugo, Alexandre Dumas, Gustave Flaubert, Mary Shelley and Lord Byron.

Switzerland

Montreux

After breakfast, depart for the postcard perfect city of Lucerne. Its lovely Old Town, brightly coloured houses, covered bridges and cobalt blue lake make for the quintessential Swiss resort town. Join a walking tour to discover its highlights, including the Museggmauer and Türme (Town Walls and Towers), Hofkirche, and the Jesuit Church.This afternoon continue to Basel (Huningue) where you’ll board your Scenic Space-Ship for your all-inclusive river cruise, taking your memories of beautiful Switzerland with you.

Switzerland

Lucerne

After breakfast, depart for the postcard perfect city of Lucerne. Its lovely Old Town, brightly coloured houses, covered bridges and cobalt blue lake make for the quintessential Swiss resort town. Join a walking tour to discover its highlights, including the Museggmauer and Türme (Town Walls and Towers), Hofkirche, and the Jesuit Church.This afternoon continue to Basel (Huningue) where you’ll board your Scenic Space-Ship for your all-inclusive river cruise, taking your memories of beautiful Switzerland with you.

Switzerland

Basel

After breakfast, depart for the postcard perfect city of Lucerne. Its lovely Old Town, brightly coloured houses, covered bridges and cobalt blue lake make for the quintessential Swiss resort town. Join a walking tour to discover its highlights, including the Museggmauer and Türme (Town Walls and Towers), Hofkirche, and the Jesuit Church.This afternoon continue to Basel (Huningue) where you’ll board your Scenic Space-Ship for your all-inclusive river cruise, taking your memories of beautiful Switzerland with you.

Switzerland

Basel

Wake in Basel (Huningue), the cultural capital of Switzerland. With its cobblestone streets, historic buildings and picturesque riverside setting, it’s one of the most charming cities in Europe at any time of year. Over Christmas, it is even more appealing – the beautifully decorated Old Town glows with twinkling lights, while the scent of roasted almonds and mulled wine drifts from the traditional Christmas markets on Barfüsserplatz and Münsterplatz.Scenic Freechoice: Enjoy local festivities with the following Scenic Freechoice options:Guided tour of Basel with market visit: Step into the festive charm of Basel on a guided walk through the Old Town, where cobbled streets twinkle with fairy lights and historic facades shimmer with seasonal cheer. Discover the majestic Basel Minster, wander past elegant boutiques and galleries, and admire the tree in Münsterplatz. Your tour culminates at the famous Basel Christmas markets – a feast for the senses with handcrafted gifts, gourmet treats and warming mulled wine.Läckerli baking workshop: Immerse yourself in a sweet Basel tradition at a Läckerli baking workshop. Under the guidance of a local baker, you’ll learn the art of crafting these iconic spiced honey cookies, a cherished treat dating back to the 15th century. Experience the rich aromas of cinnamon, cloves, candied peel and almonds as you roll, shape, and decorate your own batch.

France

Strasbourg

Arrive in Strasbourg today. Strasbourg is located on the border of France and Germany, making it a unique mixture of both French and German architecture and culture. Over Christmas, the city is home to almost a dozen traditional markets as well as the largest natural Christmas tree in Europe, standing over 30 metres tall in Place Kléber.Scenic Freechoice: Discover more of the city on one of these excursions:Guided walking tour of Strasbourg: Join your local guide on a walking tour of the city, visiting the cathedral and the charming Petit France district. After your guided tour, you have free time to explore the magical markets. Strasbourg has some of the largest and most popular Christmas markets in Europe with the town squares and pedestrian zones coming alive with festive cheer.Alsace Christmas beer - brewery visit: The cherished tradition of Christmas beer or Biere de Noel dates back to the Middle Ages and blends local brewing heritage with festive spirit. Learn about this regional tradition in the Alsace, considered to be Frances most prominent beer-producing region, during a tasting.

Germany

Mannheim

You will arrive in Mannheim early this morning. Known as a ‘chessboard city’ for its methodical grid of streets, it is also the home of some of the world’s most brilliant engineering minds, including Carl Benz, founder of Mercedes-Benz.Scenic Freechoice: Today you can choose from a selection of Scenic Freechoice on offer:Orientation tour of Heidelberg with free time: From Mannheim, you will transfer by coach to Heidelberg. Enjoy a brief walking tour of Heidelberg, including the old town, and then enjoy ample free time to explore on your own. The town is particularly charming at Christmas, with elaborate decorations, a traditional market, ice skating rink and plenty of festive treats to try.Historical tour of Heidelberg: As well as a guided tour of Heidelberg, visit Heidelberg Castle, one of the most important Renaissance structures north of the Alps. Explore the courtyard, the balcony that offers an incredible view over the Old Town and view the great Heidelberg Tun, the world’s largest wine barrel located in the castle’s cellar.Scenic EnrichPrivate classical concert at Bruchsal Palace: Enjoy a private evening concert at Bruchsal Palace. Be greeted at the Palace with a welcome drink before witnessing the grandeur of the theatre room and taking in a fabulous classical concert. Your memorable performance will feature accomplished musicians and a soloist.

Germany

Rüdesheim

This morning you’ll arrive in Rüdesheim, a quaint town surrounded by steep vineyards that have been cultivating wine for a staggering two millennia.Take a mini-train from the pier to Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum, where some 350 musical instruments from the 18th and 19th century play themselves for your enjoyment. You will have time to wander through this beautiful town before returning to your Scenic Space-Ship.

Germany

Rüdesheim

This morning, your Scenic Space-Ship will cruise the Rhine Gorge, one of the most picturesque regions on this journey. The stunning 65-kilometre stretch of river is punctuated with a constellation of some 40 hilltop castles and fortresses that span a period of 1,000 years. Look out for the Lorelei statue, dedicated to the tragic legend of a beautiful maiden. Later, arrive in Cologne, known for its laidback lifestyle, auto industry and the largest Christmas tree in the Rhineland.Take the time to discover Cologne on a walking tour. Visit the city's centrepiece and icon, Cologne Cathedral, and its magnificent Christmas markets, where local vendors sell delicious treats and decorations.Your Scenic Space-Ship will depart after dinner, allowing you plenty of time to be immersed in the tastes and scents of Christmas.

Germany

Cologne

This morning, your Scenic Space-Ship will cruise the Rhine Gorge, one of the most picturesque regions on this journey. The stunning 65-kilometre stretch of river is punctuated with a constellation of some 40 hilltop castles and fortresses that span a period of 1,000 years. Look out for the Lorelei statue, dedicated to the tragic legend of a beautiful maiden. Later, arrive in Cologne, known for its laidback lifestyle, auto industry and the largest Christmas tree in the Rhineland.Take the time to discover Cologne on a walking tour. Visit the city's centrepiece and icon, Cologne Cathedral, and its magnificent Christmas markets, where local vendors sell delicious treats and decorations.Your Scenic Space-Ship will depart after dinner, allowing you plenty of time to be immersed in the tastes and scents of Christmas.

Germany

Düsseldorf

Early this morning you’ll arrive in Düsseldorf. The city comes alive during the Christmas season with lively markets, festive music and the scent of mulled wine sweetening the air. The Old Town is brimming with festive revelers, and the famed Konigsallee is lined with traditional market stalls.Enjoy a walking tour of Düsseldorf with a local guide. Discover traditions of the festive season before free time to explore the city’s Christmas markets.

Netherlands

Amsterdam

After a hearty breakfast, you’ll be transferred from your final port of Amsterdam to the airport for your onward or homebound flight leaving with cherished memories to last a lifetime.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, Scenic 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.Please book your flight to depart out of Amsterdam after 10:00 AM.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 what is stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions.

Overview

Christmas markets delight

Admire festive decorations and twinkling lights along streets and squares – even your Scenic Space-Ship will be decked out in all the Christmas finery.

Delight in the charms of a European Christmas as you cruise along the Rhine. Visit charming Strasbourg, take in the spa resort town of Baden-Baden and Heidelberg Castle. Marvel at the World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge, explore Cologne’s Christmas markets, and discover the canals of Amsterdam. Throughout your journey, you will be enchanted by the magical traditions of Christmas, including the fragrant aroma of Gluhwein, roasted chestnuts and bustling markets bursting with festive excitement.

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Suite

Royal Owner's Suite

These Suites on the Diamond Deck are the ultimate in luxury with more space (315ft²), impeccable service, thoughtful touches, an outdoor balcony, lounge area and an oversized bathroom.

Suite Highlights

  • A luxury queen sized Scenic Slumber Bed
  • Scenic Sun Lounge, for wide-angle splendour at the press of a button
  • Separate lounge area
  • Oversized bathroom with separate shower and bath, and upgraded bathroom amenities

Amenities & Features

  • Exclusive invitation to dine at Table La Rive or Table d’Or
  • Priority reservations at selected dining venues
  • A complimentary welcome bottle of champagne (750ml)
  • €200 per suite on board credit for use in the Wellness Centre
  • Private arrival and departure transfers in Europe*
  • Personalised butler service, including unlimited complimentary laundry, shoeshine and valet, early morning tea and coffee services and a daily delivery of savoury and sweet canapés or fruit
  • Mini bar, replenished daily
  • Pillow menu, including anti-aging, low-allergy and memory-foam neck pillows
  • Nightly turndown service
  • Bathrobes and slippers
  • In-suite safe

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Suite

Royal Panorama Suite

These Suites located on the Diamond Deck are the ultimate in luxury with more space, impeccable service, thoughtful touches, an outdoor balcony, lounge area and an oversized bathroom.

Suite Highlights

  • A luxury queen sized Scenic Slumber Bed
  • Scenic Sun Lounge, for wide-angle splendour at the press of a button
  • Separate lounge area
  • Oversized bathroom with separate shower and bath, and upgraded bathroom amenities

Amenities & Features

  • Exclusive invitation to dine at Table La Rive or Table d’Or
  • Priority reservations at selected dining venues
  • A complimentary welcome bottle of champagne (750ml)
  • €200 per suite on board credit for use in the Wellness Centre
  • Private arrival and departure transfers in Europe*
  • Personalised butler service, including unlimited complimentary laundry, shoeshine and valet, early morning tea and coffee services and a daily delivery of savoury and sweet canapés or fruit
  • Mini bar, replenished daily
  • Pillow menu, including anti-aging, low-allergy and memory-foam neck pillows
  • Nightly turndown service
  • Bathrobes and slippers
  • In-suite safe

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Suite

Royal Balcony Suite

These Suites located on the Diamond Deck are the ultimate in luxury with more space, impeccable service, thoughtful touches, an outdoor balcony, lounge area and an oversized bathroom.

Suite Highlights

  • A luxury queen sized Scenic Slumber Bed
  • Scenic Sun Lounge, for wide-angle splendour at the press of a button
  • Separate lounge area
  • Oversized bathroom with separate shower and bath, and upgraded bathroom amenities

Amenities & Features

  • Exclusive invitation to dine at Table La Rive or Table d’Or
  • Priority reservations at selected dining venues
  • A complimentary welcome bottle of champagne (750ml)
  • €200 per suite on board credit for use in the Wellness Centre
  • Private arrival and departure transfers in Europe*
  • Personalised butler service, including unlimited complimentary laundry, shoeshine and valet, early morning tea and coffee services and a daily delivery of savoury and sweet canapés or fruit
  • Mini bar, replenished daily
  • Pillow menu, including anti-aging, low-allergy and memory-foam neck pillows
  • Nightly turndown service
  • Bathrobes and slippers
  • In-suite safe

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Suite

Junior Balcony Suite

These spacious Suites, located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks, have a private full-length balcony complete with a Scenic Sun Lounge and elegant en-suite bathrooms featuring a large vanity basin and shower.

Room Highlights

  • A luxury queen-sized Scenic Slumber Bed
  • Scenic Sun Lounge, your all weather balcony at the press of a button
  • Spacious bathroom with luxurious amenities

Amenities and Features

  • Exclusive invitation to dine at Table La Rive/Table d’Or
  • Priority reservations at selected dining venues
  • Personalised butler service for every suite
  • Complimentary laundry service once per suite
  • Daily pressing for two pieces of clothing
  • In-suite breakfast with early morning tea and coffee services available
  • Daily delivery of savoury and sweet canapés or fruit
  • Mini bar, replenished daily
  • Pillow menu, including anti-aging, low-allergy and memory-foam neck pillows
  • Nightly turndown service
  • Bathrobes and slippers
  • In-suite safe

Suite

Balcony Suite

Located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks these stylishly decorated suites feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive Scenic Sun Lounge and offer private bathrooms with a luxurious vanity basin and shower.

Room Highlights

  • A luxury queen sized Scenic Slumber Bed
  • Scenic Sun Lounge, for wide-angle splendour at the press of a button
  • Spacious bathroom with luxurious amenities

Amenities & Features

  • Personalised butler service for every suite
  • Complimentary laundry service once per suite
  • Early morning tea and coffee
  • Beverage service in your suite
  • Mini bar, replenished daily
  • Pillow menu, including anti-aging, low-allergy and memory-foam neck pillows
  • Nightly turndown service
  • Bathrobes and slippers
  • In-suite safe
  • Shoeshine and valet service. 

Suite

Single Balcony Suite

Located on the Sapphire deck this suite is perfect for the solo traveller. Enjoy fantastic views from your full size balcony complete with Scenic Sun Lounge. This cabin also includes an elegant bathroon with a luxurious vanity basin and shower.

Room Highlights

  • A luxury queen sized Scenic Slumber Bed
  • Scenic Sun Lounge, for wide-angle splendour at the press of a button
  • Spacious bathroom with luxurious amenities

Amenities & Features

  • Personalised butler service for every suite
  • Complimentary laundry service once per suite
  • Early morning tea and coffee
  • Beverage service in your suite
  • Mini bar, replenished daily
  • Pillow menu, including anti-aging, low-allergy and memory-foam neck pillows
  • Nightly turndown service
  • Bathrobes and slippers
  • In-suite safe
  • Shoeshine and valet service. 

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Suite

Standard Stateroom

Our Jewel Deck Suites provide a lovely introduction to river cruising. Comfortable and luxurious with the finest in amenities.

Room Highlights

  • A luxury queen sized Scenic Slumber Bed
  • Spacious bathroom with luxurious amenities

Amenities and Features

  • Personalised butler service
  • Complimentary laundry service once per suite
  • Early morning tea and coffee
  • Mini bar, replenished daily
  • Pillow menu, including anti-aging, low-allergy and memory-foam neck pillows
  • Shoeshine and valet service
  • Nightly turndown service
  • In-suite safe 

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casual

Crystal Dining

Enjoy à la carte menus for breakfast, lunch and dinner at Crystal Dining. Available on all Europe and South East Asia river cruises, this main restaurant offers a relaxed dining experience with local delicacies. 

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italian

Portobellos

With up to only 32 guests an evening, the exclusive and intimate Portobellos or L’Amour showcase sumptuous regional specialities. The delectable five-course menu features either Italian, French or Portuguese cuisine (depending on your cruise location), paired with elegant wines, and is available on all European river cruises.

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casual

Table La Rive

Featuring a six-course degustation, the exclusive Table La Rive and Table d’Or on our European river cruises offers an intimate dining experience for only 10 guests per evening. Guests staying on the Diamond Deck for 10 nights or longer, as well as Royal and Junior Suite guests staying for up to nine nights, will be invited by our Executive Chef.

casual

Riverview Terrace

Savour a light bite or refreshing aperitif on the Riverview Terrace, a charming open-air lounge space that’s ideal for sunlit afternoons on the river. With all-inclusive refreshments available throughout your river cruise, this is the perfect place for enjoying a little alfresco dining.

casual

River Cafe

Offering a casual dining experience, you can enjoy all-day grazing options, light snacks and tasty treats to suit your schedule. The River Café is available on all Europe and South East Asia river cruises.    

room

In-Suite Dining

Choose to dine in the comfort of your luxurious suite, while taking in the incredible views and enjoy included room service throughout your cruise.  

Lounge, Bar

Panorama Lounge & Bar

Explore our extensive wine list, relax with a coffee or catch-up with new-found friends at the Panorama Lounge & Bar. This is the main bar lounge on-board our Space-Ships, and it’s tastefully furnished to guarantee your comfort and enjoyment.

Sun Deck

The Sun Deck

Make the most of every ray of sunshine with our purpose-built Sun Deck. Complete with deck chairs and a games area, this is a place to kick back and enjoy the view as your Space-Ship travels to its next destination.

Reception

Reception

Whatever you need on your cruise through Europe, our welcoming reception team is here to ensure your trip goes down without a hitch. The reception area is also the meeting point for the day’s shore excursions; you’ll find it in the middle of the Scenic Ruby.

Bar, Lounge

All Inclusive Beverages

Sit back and enjoy a beverage of your choice while cruising spectacular waterways, at your leisure. Sip on handcrafted cocktails or a full-bodied wine – the choice is yours.

You will enjoy:

  • Unlimited complimentary premium international beverages^, including international wines, beers and spirits
  • Full in-suite mini bar, restocked daily
  • Refillable water bottle for all onshore excursions
  • An extensive range of specialty teas and espresso coffees
  • This selection is available all day, every day.

*Exclusive invitation for Diamond Deck and Junior Suite guests cruising for 10 nights or more, or Royal and Junior Suite guests for 9 nights or fewer.

^All beverages are included except a very small number of fine and vintage wines, champagnes and spirits.

Spa, Wellness

Wellness Area

Maintain your wellness routine at our state-of-the-art gym, morning stretching classes with the Wellness Coach or rejuvenating spa treatments. Exercise on the walking track on the Sun Deck or take a dip in the Vitality Pool.

Spa, Wellness

Salt Therapy Lounge

This innovative lounge is featured on most of our Space-Ships in Europe. The salt brick walls of the humidity and temperature-controlled lounge are known to offer a range of health benefits for respiratory and immune systems.

Gym

Fitness Centre

Featuring state-of-the-art fitness equipment, including both cardio and weight-training machines, the Fitness Centre is ideal for those who want to stay active on their travels. Drop by and get ready for the day.
Pool, Whirlpool/Jacuzzi

Vitality Pool

Admire the passing views, or take a rejuvenating dip in the Vitality Pool.