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Rhine River Cruise: Christmas Markets


Date: December 17-24, 2026

Adult: $6,599

Children: $5,899

Celebrate the holiday season in style with an Adventures by Disney Rhine River Cruise: Christmas Markets edition. Journey through Switzerland, France, Germany, and the Netherlands while embracing festive traditions. Browse world-famous Christmas markets, admire Strasbourg aboard the charming Petit Train, explore a one-of-a-kind theme park, cruise Amsterdam’s picturesque canals, and enjoy countless magical experiences along the way.

Trip Details:

  • Start: Basel, Switzerland

  • End: Amsterdam, The Netherlands

  • Destinations: Switzerland, France, Germany, the Netherlands

  • Meals: 7 Breakfasts, 6 Lunches, 7 Dinners

  • Accommodation: AmaLucia

  • Days: 8

  • Ages: Minimum Age: 5; Suggested Age: 8+

  • Trip Type: Small Ship Adventures

Why You’ll Love This Trip:

  1. Christmas Markets: Celebrate the season as you browse festive markets filled with handmade crafts, unique gifts, and delicious holiday treats.

  2. Heidelberg Castle Tour: Step back in time with a guided visit to this fairytale-like castle, originally built in 1614, and uncover its fascinating history.

  3. Amsterdam Canal Cruise: Discover the charm of Amsterdam while gliding along its scenic canals and taking in the city’s iconic sights.

  4. Rhine Gorge Castle Cruise: Cruise past the breathtaking Rhine Gorge, where 30 legendary castles line the riverbanks.

  5. Europa-Park Experience: Delight in thrilling rides, lively shows, and holiday magic at Europe’s beloved theme park, showcasing the spirit of the season.

What Makes Disney River Cruises So Special

Adventures by Disney River Cruises combine the enchantment of Disney’s signature storytelling with the elegance of European river cruising. Here’s what sets them apart:

  • The Disney Touch – Experience the magic of Disney while exploring charming European towns and cities. With smaller ports of call and an excellent guest-to-crew ratio, every detail feels personal.

  • Fun for All Ages – From family-friendly adventures to adult-focused activities, the programming ensures every traveler has something exciting to enjoy.

  • Personalized Service – Expert Adventure Guides curate activities tailored to both kids and adults, making the journey seamless and memorable for families.

  • Luxury Comfort – The ships feature stylish accommodations, spacious staterooms, and top-notch amenities designed for relaxation and comfort.

  • Flexible Itineraries – With a wide range of excursions and activities to choose from, guests can tailor their days to suit their interests.

  • Immersive Experiences – Each stop offers opportunities to connect with local culture, often through engaging, eco-conscious activities that bring destinations to life.

With its perfect balance of Disney magic, cultural immersion, and world-class comfort, an Adventures by Disney River Cruise is a truly unforgettable way to explore Europe.

Itinerary

  • Transfer from Basel Airport (BSL) to Your Ship
    Begin your journey with a smooth transfer from Basel Airport to your home for the next eight days—a luxurious AmaWaterways ship.

    Check In to Your Stateroom
    With the assistance of your Adventure Guides, settle into your elegantly appointed stateroom. Then, explore the ship’s many inviting amenities, from the heated pool and fitness center to the massage and hair salon, library, giant chessboard, sun deck, and lounge.

    Welcome Reception in Basel
    Kick off your adventure with a warm welcome reception featuring Swiss-inspired hors d’oeuvres and wine, enjoyed right on board.

    Captain’s Welcome Cocktail & Dinner
    Meet the captain and your fellow travelers over cocktails, followed by your first delicious dinner on the ship. Afterward, head to the Sun Deck, bundle up, and admire Basel’s sparkling holiday lights.

    Meals Included: Dinner
    Accommodations: AmaLucia

  • Breakfast On Board
    Begin your morning with a delicious breakfast while enjoying the company of your fellow travelers.

    Full-Day Adventure – Choose Your Experience

    Option A: Europa-Park in Rust, Germany
    Set between the Black Forest and the Vosges Mountains, Europa-Park offers endless fun with thrilling attractions, lively entertainment, and seasonal festivities. During the holidays, the park transforms into a winter wonderland complete with a charming Christmas village and festive market. Lunch will be provided during your visit.

    Option B: Colmar Excursion
    Step into the storybook town of Colmar, France, beautifully adorned for the holidays. Renowned for its enchanting Christmas markets, the village sparkles with stalls, lights, and seasonal cheer. Your visit includes:

    • A guided walking tour of Colmar

    • A stop at the Cheese Museum with a live cheese-making demonstration and tasting

    • Lunch at the Cheese Museum

    • Free time to explore the Christmas markets at your own pace

    Dinner On Board
    Return to the ship and savor a delightful evening meal.

    Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    Accommodations: AmaLucia

  • Breakfast On Board
    Fuel up for the day with a hearty breakfast before heading out for your Strasbourg adventures.

    Batorama Canal Boat Tour
    Glide along Strasbourg’s waterways on the Batorama Canal Boat and admire the city’s highlights, including its towers, covered bridges, and the Vauban Dam. Cruise through various districts, with a special look at the charming Petite France quarter.

    Strasbourg Cathedral de Notre Dame
    Enjoy free time to explore the magnificent Strasbourg Cathedral de Notre Dame. Completed in 1439, this Gothic masterpiece features stunning Renaissance stained-glass windows and an impressive astronomical clock dating back to 1843.

    Lunch On Board
    Return to the ship for a meal inspired by Strasbourg’s unique blend of French and German culinary traditions—perfect for recharging before the afternoon activities.

    Afternoon Adventure – Choose Your Experience

    Option A: French Macaron Workshop
    Join the ship’s chef for a hands-on demonstration and learn how to create the delicate and delicious French macaron.

    Option B: Petit Train of Strasbourg
    Climb aboard the Petit Train for a delightful ride through Strasbourg’s Petite France district, passing narrow streets, scenic quays, and historic bridges.

    Dinner & Festivities On Board
    End your day with a festive dinner, followed by holiday-themed fun with your fellow Adventurers. Activities may include cookie decorating, a gift exchange, and a Disney trivia challenge hosted by your Adventure Guides.

    Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    Accommodations: AmaLucia

  • Breakfast On Board
    Start the morning with a hearty breakfast and enjoy the company of your fellow Adventurers as you prepare for an exciting day.

    Tour of Heidelberg & Heidelberg Castle
    Step back in time with a guided visit to the iconic Heidelberg Castle. Led by a costumed guide, discover the rich history of this Renaissance fortress, built in 1614 and once home to royalty. Afterwards, wander through the charming streets of Heidelberg, Germany’s oldest and most famous university town. Admire its Baroque architecture, browse local shops, and stroll along the picturesque riverfront at your own pace.

    Christmas Market & Ice Skating
    Experience the festive magic of Heidelberg’s renowned Christmas market. Shop for handcrafted treasures and seasonal keepsakes, then lace up your skates for a whirl around the open-air ice rink.

    Lunch On Board
    For Adventurers who prefer a lighter schedule, enjoy a relaxing lunch back on the ship.

    Dinner & Evening Celebration On Board
    Return to the ship after a day of exploration and gather with your group for a festive dinner. The evening will be filled with holiday cheer, laughter, and special moments to share with family and fellow travelers.

    Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    Accommodations: AmaLucia

  • Breakfast On Board
    Begin your morning with a delicious breakfast while catching up with fellow Adventurers.

    Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet Museum
    Step into a world of enchanting sound at Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet Museum, home to one of the largest collections of mechanical music boxes, self-playing pianos, and automated instruments from the 18th to 20th centuries.

    Morning Activity – Choose Your Experience

    Option A: Bike Ride Around Rüdesheim
    Pedal at your own pace through the charming town of Rüdesheim and the surrounding wine country, birthplace of world-renowned Pinot Noir and Riesling wines.

    Option B: Leisure Time in Rüdesheim
    Discover Rüdesheim on your own, with options such as:

    • Coffee & Hot Chocolate Tasting: Savor a warm cup of Rüdesheim’s signature coffee or a rich hot chocolate.

    • Gondola Ride to the Niederwald Monument: Take in breathtaking views of the Old Town, vineyards, and the Rhine River from this cultural landmark celebrating the Unification of Germany.

    Lunch On Board
    Return to the ship for a relaxing midday meal before continuing your adventures.

    Afternoon Activity – Choose Your Experience

    Option A: Bike Ride Around Rüdesheim
    Continue your cycling adventure through the town and surrounding vineyards.

    Option B: Leisure Time in Rüdesheim
    Enjoy more time to explore the town at your own pace, including coffee, hot chocolate, and gondola ride options.

    Option C: Wine Tasting at Weingut Adolf Störzel
    Savor local flavors with a guided wine tasting paired with pretzels inside the atmospheric Bassenheimer Hof’s cellar.

    Iconic Castle Cruise Through the Rhine Gorge
    Set sail through the stunning Rhine Gorge, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and marvel at nearly 30 castles dotting the riverbanks. Listen as the ship’s Cruise Manager shares fascinating stories about the region’s history. On the Sun Deck, enjoy a Rüdesheimer coffee demonstration and tasting as you take in the panoramic views.

    Dinner On Board
    Cap off your day with another memorable dinner prepared by the ship’s culinary team.

    Note: Some activities have limited availability and are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

    Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    Accommodations: AmaLucia

  • Breakfast On Board
    Begin the day with an early breakfast shared with fellow Adventurers as you prepare for your final excursions along the Rhine.

    Morning Activities – Choose Your Experience

    Option A: Cologne Walking Tour, Cologne Cathedral & Fragrance Museum

    • Stroll through Cologne on a guided walking tour, exploring its 2,000-year history, Gothic architecture, and cultural landmarks.

    • Visit the magnificent Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, at your own pace.

    • Step inside the Fragrance Museum to discover the fascinating story of perfume and learn how the world-famous eau de cologne is crafted.

    Option B: Cologne Walking Tour, Cologne Cathedral & Chocolate Museum

    • Enjoy a guided walking tour of Cologne and soak in its rich history and restored Gothic charm.

    • Wander through the Cologne Cathedral at your leisure.

    • Tour the Chocolate Museum, where you’ll learn about the history of chocolate, sample sweet treats, and even create your own personalized chocolate bar.

    Option C: Cologne Walking Tour, Cologne Cathedral & Pub Tour

    • Experience Cologne on foot, exploring its historic streets and cultural highlights.

    • Take time to explore the iconic Cologne Cathedral.

    • Join a guided pub tour, sampling local beers while uncovering the traditions and stories behind Cologne’s vibrant pub culture.

    Lunch On Board & Scenic Sailing to Amsterdam
    Return to the ship for tapas available at noon, followed by a late lunch around 2:30 PM as the ship departs. Bid farewell to Cologne and enjoy the Rhine’s picturesque scenery on your journey toward Amsterdam.

    Afternoon Frühschoppen
    Gather with your Adventure Guides for a Bavarian-style break featuring beer, sausages, and pretzels, while learning what to expect upon arrival in Amsterdam.

    Captain’s Farewell Cocktail Party & Dinner
    Celebrate your final evening on board with cocktails hosted by the captain, followed by a special farewell dinner. Share memories, toast to new friendships, and reflect on the incredible experiences of your river cruise.

    Please Note: Some activities are limited in capacity and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

    Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    Accommodations: AmaLucia

  • Breakfast On Board
    Enjoy a hearty breakfast to start your day before setting off to explore the treasures of Amsterdam.

    Amsterdam Canal Cruise
    Glide through one of Amsterdam’s 165 canals and take in the sights of this 800-year-old city. Admire the historic center and its highlights—ancient churches, charming canal houses, graceful bridges, cobblestone streets, and more.

    Morning Activity – Choose Your Experience

    Option A: Rijksmuseum
    Step inside the Netherlands’ most famous museum and journey through centuries of history and art. The Rijksmuseum features nearly 8,000 works from the 9th to 19th centuries, with masterpieces by Rembrandt, Vermeer, and other Dutch masters, alongside a distinguished Asian collection.

    Option B: Van Gogh Museum
    Delve into the world of Vincent van Gogh at the museum dedicated to his life and legacy. Home to over 1,000 works—including Sunflowers and The Bedroom—this collection offers the largest display of Van Gogh’s art in the world, along with works by his contemporaries and insights into his personal story.

    Lunch On Board
    Return to the ship for a relaxed lunch with fellow travelers before your afternoon excursions.

    Afternoon Activity – Choose Your Experience

    Option A: Visit Volendam
    Step back in time in the fishing village of Volendam, set on IJsselmeer Lake. With its quaint harbor, old fishing boats, and residents dressed in traditional Dutch attire, this charming town offers a glimpse into classic Dutch culture.

    Option B: Explore Zaanse Schans
    Discover the storybook village of Zaanse Schans, filled with historic wooden windmills, houses, and shops that have been preserved and reassembled to showcase the region’s past. Try clog decorating, watch a cheese-making demonstration, and stroll through this welcoming community surrounded by meadows.

    Dinner On Board
    As your ship cruises back toward Amsterdam, gather with your group for one last delicious dinner on board.

    Please Note: Some activities have limited capacity and are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

    Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    Accommodations: AmaLucia

  • Breakfast On Board
    Savor one final breakfast with your fellow Adventurers as you wrap up your unforgettable journey along the Rhine.

    Transfer to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS)
    Receive assistance with your luggage and enjoy a smooth transfer to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) for your departure.

    Meals Included: Breakfast

Important notes

What’s Included

  • Disney-trained Adventure Guides plus expert local hosts throughout your journey

  • Exceptional accommodations as outlined in the itinerary

  • Meals listed in the itinerary

  • Daily excursions, activities, and entertainment

  • Admission to scheduled attractions and performances

  • Porterage service for your luggage

  • Unlimited wine, beer, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner

  • Sparkling wine and fresh juice with breakfast

  • All transportation during the trip as detailed in the itinerary

  • Airport transfers on arrival and departure days (when booked through Adventures by Disney)

  • Complimentary Wi-Fi on the ship

  • All gratuities covered

  • Applicable taxes, including airport departure taxes (where required)

What’s Not Included

  • Airfare to and from your trip destination (plus excess baggage fees and airline surcharges)

  • Travel protection insurance

  • Passport and visa expenses

  • Alcoholic beverages and soft drinks outside of mealtimes

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