2023 : Christmas Markets on the Rhine : 7-Night Cruise : Basel to Amsterdam : ms AmaSiena
Overview
CRUISE FROM : Amsterdam to Basel
Experience the deep-rooted holiday traditions of Europe at its most festive time of year and get caught up in the magic of the holidays with visits to some of the world's most timeless Christmas Markets. Warm up with a mug of steamy gluhwein while at the Cologne Christmas Market located in front of its UNESCO-designated Gothic cathedral. Let the "Capital of Noel," Strasbourg, the oldest and largest Christmas Market in France, captivate you the way it has for so many others for centuries. Meander through Heidelberg's majestic Christmas Market nestled idyllically amongst the historic squares of the Old Town. And while in Gengenbach, marvel at the world's largest Advent calendar, where every evening at 6:00 PM, the brightly lit windows of the neo-classical town hall open and behind each one is a picture by a famous artist, such as Andy Warhol. Cherish all the glory of the season in grand European style as you cruise along the Rhine.
COUNTRIES: France, Germany, Netherlands, Switzerland
RIVERS: Rhine
Christmas Markets on the Rhine
At A Glance
On our river cruises, you will enjoy an extensive lineup of included tours. In many cases, you will have a choice of excursions, such as standard tours, bike tours, hikes and Special Interest Tours. We always include a large variety of activities so that you can choose how you want to explore. No matter your preference, your days will be full of discovery and wonder.
Included Features
SPACIOUS STATEROOMS
7 nights luxury accommodation in an outside stateroom (most with twin balconies)
Entertainment-On-Demand in all staterooms featuring free high-speed internet access, movies, a music library and English language TV stations
Mini-fridge, desk and sitting area
Bottled water replenished dailyAN ARRAY OF AMENITIES
Wellness Activities with a dedicated Wellness Host leading various exercise classes as well as discussions on healthy eating and relaxation techniques, both on board and on shore.
Personalized service from a highly trained Cruise Manager during both cruise and land programs
Internet and Wi-Fi access
Sun deck pool with swim-up bar and walking track
Fitness room, massage services and hair salon
Main Lounge with panoramic views and bar
Daily entertainment including cultural performancesAWARD-WINNING DINING
All onboard dining in a variety of venues
Regionally inspired cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients
The Chef's Table specialty restaurant
Welcome Cocktail, Welcome Dinner, La Chaine des Rotisseurs Dinner, Captain's Cocktail and Gala Dinner
La Chaine des Rotisseurs exclusive dining experience
Unlimited fine wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner
Unlimited sparkling wine and fresh juice with breakfast
Sip & Sail Cocktail Hour with complimentary wine, beer, spirits and soft drinks
Tapas, sandwiches, snacks and refreshments served daily in the Main LoungeA WORLD OF EXPLORATION
Immersive tours in every destination
Gentle, regular, active and late-riser tour options
Bike tours and hikes
Special Interest Tours
Knowledgeable guides
Personal headset for easy exploration
Airport transfers with purchase of air from AmaWaterwaysDetailed Itinerary
Day 1 : BASEL, SWITZERLand - EMBARKATION
Embark the ship in Basel. Tonight, meet your fellow passengers on board. (D)
Day 2 : BREISACH, GERMANY
Visit the enchanting Alsatian town of Riquewihr beautifully dressed in her holiday finery with twinkling decorations and a lively Christmas Market. On your walking tour, admire historical architecture, as well as famous sights, such as the Dolder Gate. Alternatively, you may wish to visit Freiburg, founded in 1120, and home to Freiburg's Munster, a Gothic cathedral constructed of red sandstone, as well as its enchanting Christmas Market. (B,L,D)
Day 3 : STRASBOURG, FRANCE
Strasbourg is even more alluring during the season of Advent. The Christkindelsmarik dates back to 1570, making it the oldest Christmas Market in France. Enjoy a panoramic bus tour that takes you past the Parc de l'Orangerie, the European Parliament and the Place de la Republique. Afterwards, walk through the historic town center on the Grande Ile, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and through the lovely "La Petite France" district, where you will see the Cathedrale de Notre Dame with its famous astronomical clock and then visit the town's famous Christmas Market. You can also choose to explore Strasbourg's different districts by bicycle. During the afternoon, visit Gengenbach Christmas Market where every year the locals countdown to Christmas with a 24-day, larger-than-life Advent calendar. (B,L,D)
Day 4 : LUDWIGSHAFEN- RUDESHEIM
You have the choice to explore two of Germany's historically rich cities, along with their festive Christmas Markets. Visit Heidelberg, a city that will capture your heart with its mighty castle and historic university. While here, wander along one of Europe's longest pedestrian shopping streets, the Hauptstrasse, soaking up the Yuletide celebrations at the town's Christmas Markets. Alternatively, you can explore one of Germany's oldest cities, Speyer, known for the largest Romanesque cathedral in Europe-a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You'll also have time to visit its Christmas Market in front of the "Old Mint" (Alten Munze) in the famous Maximilianstrasse, with a view of the romantic imperial cathedral (Kaiserdom). Later in the day, sail to Rudesheim where you can taste local wine or taste one of the town's special delights, Rudesheimer Coffee, ceremoniously made with brandy. (B,L,D)
Day 5 : RUDESHEIM - RHINE GORGE
Your exploration of Rudesheim continues with your choice of excursions. Visit Siegfried's Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum or take a gondola ride to the Niederwalddenkmal Statue, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the river. Afterwards, indulge your taste buds with a sampling of Riesling wines in the vineyards. Alternatively, you can join a guided bike ride through the town and along the Rhine River to Schloss Johannisberg; or hike through the town's beautiful vineyards. During the afternoon, set sail along the scenic Rhine River Gorge with its fabled legends and many castles. (B,L,D)
Day 6 : COLOGNE
Join a guided tour through the enchanting Old Town. Explore the UNESCO-designated cathedral and then visit one of Europe's largest and most renowned Christmas Markets located in front of the cathedral. Alternatively, ride a bike along the Rhine and through the historic Stadtgarten; or visit a local tavern to taste Cologne's traditional Kolsch beer and Reibekuchen-potato pancakes served with apple sauce. (B,L,D)
Day 7 : AMSTERDAM, NETHERLandS
Cruise the iconic canals of Amsterdam, considered the "Venice of the North" and admire the historic architecture along the way. Then, taste local specialties at one of Amsterdam's grand cafes. Please note that an alternative tour will depend on docking location. (B,L,D)
Day 8 : DISEMBARKATION - DEPART AMSTERDAM
Bid Farewell to Amsterdam and prepare for your homeward flight. (B)
