Available
Italy 8 days
Amalfi & Tuscany Private Escape
Coastline and countryside in perfect balance — a private cruise along the Amalfi Coast, vineyard dining in Tuscany and after-hours cultural access throughout.
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Available
Cruise the Rhine to Europe's Christmas Markets
France, Germany8 days
The journey
Overview
Little changed throughout the centuries, the holiday traditions of France and Germany harken back to the true spirit of the season. Celebrate these timeless European traditions on a festive Rhine cruise as you browse atmospheric Christmas markets, explore the historic streets of Strasbourg and Cologne, and sample fine regional wines along the way.
Highlights
- ◆Stroll the streets of Strasbourg, home to one of Europe’s most stylish Christmas markets, and taste wines in the Cave des Hospices, the city’s oldest cellar
- ◆Venture into the Black Forest to visit Freiburg’s market, exploring the small villages of the Alsace wine route along the way
- ◆Cruise the Rhine River, experiencing exclusive sightseeing in your private small-group vehicle, escorted by your own Resident Tour Director
- ◆Savor the seasonal wines, cuisine and shopping of Heidelberg
- ◆In Cologne, explore the city’s majestic cathedral, browse its bustling market and sample lebkuchen, a traditional holiday gingerbread
Day by day
Day 1
Arrive Strasbourg, France
The Alsatian capital of Strasbourg delights with its charming neighborhoods, narrow streets, superb eateries, and eclectic mix of medieval, Renaissance and Art Nouveau architecture. The city was a major trade hub in the Middle Ages and its marketplaces and squares remain lively today — and never more so than during the holiday season.
Day 2
Strasbourg - Timeless Christmas Market
Explore Strasbourg in the company of a local expert, followed by a specially arranged tasting at the Cave des Hospices, the city’s oldest wine cellar. Browse the city’s bustling Christmas market before boarding your riverboat.
Day 3
Freiburg, Germany - Into the Black Forest
Embark on an overland day trip to Freiburg, Germany, gateway to the Black Forest region and site of a bustling Weihnachtsmarkt. After time to explore and shop on your own, cross back into France along the Alsace Wine Road, each village revealing markets and history more beautiful than the last.
Day 4
Heidelberg - Christmas Within the Castle Walls
The lively university town of Heidelberg with its Christmas markets is an unforgettable setting for a holiday season excursion. Stroll the historic city center under the looming walls of Heidelberg Castle, pausing for a wine tasting paired with lunch. This evening, enjoy a private cocktail party followed by a Chef’s Table dinner, an Worldway Travels x A&K exclusive.
Day 5
Rüdesheim and Koblenz - Cruising the Rhine Gorge
Awake in Rüdesheim to stroll the city’s charming streets. Back on board, cruise a postcard-perfect stretch of river, the famous Rhine Gorge. Later, set out on a walking tour of Koblenz and its medieval center, capping things off with a Captain’s Gala dinner back aboard.
Day 6
Bonn – Beethoven’s Legacy
Disembark in Cologne and travel overland to Bonn, the former provisional capital of West Germany. Here, visit the spired Bonn Minster, one of Germany’s oldest churches, and celebrate the life of the great composer at the Beethoven-Haus Museum. Return to Cologne and check in to your hotel in the heart of the city.
Day 7
Cologne – Christmas Under Iconic Spires
Cologne is a Gothic masterpiece and cultural hub renowned for its reconstructed Old Town. The city is also home to storied Cologne Cathedral, with its filigree twin spires, gilded medieval reliquary and panoramic river views. Join a local expert for a city walk, followed by a free afternoon to visit the city’s inviting Christmas markets and museums. Tonight, gather at a local restaurant for a fare
Day 8
Depart Cologne
After breakfast, take your private transfer to the airport for your departing flight.
What's included
- Expert local guides & seamless transfers
- Carefully selected luxury accommodations
- Selected meals & signature experiences
- Private arrival & departure transfers
Not included
- International airfare
- Travel insurance
- Visas where applicable
- Gratuities & personal expenses
Accommodations
- ◆Régent Petite France
- ◆Amadeus Riva
- ◆Strasbourg
- ◆Speyer
- ◆Koblenz
- ◆Cologne
Frequently asked questions
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