2025 : Christmas Markets on the Rhine : 7-night Cruise : Basel to Amsterdam : ms AmaCerto
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
AN ARRAY OF AMENITIES
AWARD-WINNING DINING
A WORLD OF EXPLORATION
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 : BASEL, SWITZERLAND - EMBARKATION
Board your ship in Basel for your Christmas Markets on the Rhine cruise. (B)
Day 2 : BREISACH, GERMANY
Breisach is your gateway to several different excursions. Journey into medieval Colmar, located in the enchanting Alsace region of France. Delight in the half-timbered houses lining the cobblestone streets as you take in the whimsical blend of French and German culture and the town's wonderful Christmas Markets. 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. Those wishing a more active excursion will want to cycle through the scenic countryside. (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 Ele, 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 count down to Christmas with a 24-day, larger-than-life Advent calendar. (B,L,D)
Day 4 : LUDWIGSHAFEN, GERMANY - REDESHEIM, GERMANY
You have a choice of several excursions, depending on your interest. Visit Heidelberg, a perfectly preserved medieval city nestled in the Neckar River Valley along German's Castle Road, followed by a visit to the Christmas markets. For those seeking a more active adventure, hike the historic Philosopher's Path or bike along the shores of the river Neckar, ultimately arriving in the medieval town of Ladenburg. Alternatively, you can discover the medieval past of Speyer and its charming Christmas markets. Later in the day, sail to the winemaking town of Rudesheim, where you can taste the village's sweet wine or its special delight, Rudesheimer coffee, ceremoniously made with whipped cream and brandy. (B,L,D)
Day 5 : REDESHEIM - RHINE GORGE SCENIC CRUISING - LAHNSTEIN, GERMANY
Visit Siegfried's whimsical Mechanical Instrument Cabinet, take a guided bike tour through the town and along the Rhine River, hike through the vineyards or soar high above the town by gondola and later enjoy Christmas traditions from all over the world at Rudesheim Christmas market. Later in the day, sit in the Main Lounge, out on your balcony or bundle up on the Sun Deck to enjoy a scenic cruise through the Rhine Gorge, during which you will see many historic castles. Upon reaching Lahnstein, take a unique tour of Lahneck Castle. (B,L,D)
Day 6 : DESSELDORF, GERMANY
Enjoy a scenic cruise into Dusseldorf. In the afternoon, take a brief trip to the nearby city of Cologne on a guided tour of its enchanting Old Town, where you will see sites such as the Cologne Rathaus, Germany's oldest town hall; the Fishmarkt, which dates back to the 12th century and the Great St. Martin Church. Then visit one of Europe's largest and most renowned Christmas Markets. Or explore historic Dusseldorf on foot with a knowledgeable local tour guide. Then, be treated to a tasting of Altbier, a clean and crisp beer developed in Dusseldorf that is crafted using traditional brewing techniques. Conclude the tour with a visit to the local Christmas Market. Alternatively, cover more ground with an active bike tour of the city. (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. Alternatively, taste local specialties at one of Amsterdam's grand cafes. Please note that an alternative tour will depend on docking location. (B,L,D)
*Please note an alternative tour will operate depend on docking location.
Day 8 : AMSTERDAM - DISEMBARKATION
Disembark the ship and bid farewell to Amsterdam as you prepare for your return flight home.
Call (877) 294-4053 for more information or to book today! Mention code 18956792
- Cruise Line
- AmaWaterways
- Offer
- Offer valid through 3/31/2025
- Duration
- 8 Days
- Cruise Ship
- ms AmaCerto
Click for more information on this ship.
| Day | Port | Arrive | Depart |
| Day 1 | Basel | ||
| Day 2 | Breisach | ||
| Day 3 | Strasbourg | ||
| Day 4 | Ludwigshafen | ||
| Day 5 | Lahnstein | ||
| Day 6 | Dusseldorf | ||
| Day 7 | Amsterdam | ||
| Day 8 | Amsterdam |
- Dates/Pricing
- Disclaimer
NOTES:
Christmas Markets Notice Most Christmas Markets open during the last week of November and remain open until approximately Dec. 22. Check with each country's tourist office for more information.
Important Dates, prices & itineraries are subject to change.
Port Charges (included in cruise price) $240 per person.
Single Supplement for Cruise 50% of twin price; AA+ and Suite 100% of twin price.
Single Supplement for Land A single supplement charge will be applied to pre- and post-cruise hotel extensions. Please call for pricing details.
Bedding Please select bedding configuration at the time of booking. The Options are: Option A: Two twin beds Option B: One large bed (larger than queen size).
TERMS & CONDITIONS:
All rates are per person for cruise only, include port fees and are based on double occupancy in an entry level category stateroom unless stated otherwise. Offers are valid on select sailings only and applicable to new bookings only. Unless explicitly stated that single supplement is waived, solo travelers in a double occupancy stateroom must pay an additional single supplement amount before receiving any discounts. Ask about Solo Traveler promotions. Offers are not combinable with any other promotions/discounts, limited to availability, capacity controlled and subject to change or termination without notice. Stateroom upgrades, optional land programs and round-trip airfare are not included in cruise price. Other restrictions apply. AmaWaterways reserves the right to correct any errors or omissions at any time. Registration as a seller of travel does not constitute approval by the State of California.
