Cruises > Christmas Markets on the Rhine

About Your Trip

Christmas Markets on the Rhine

Departs: 24 November 2025

Celebrate the magic of the festive season in pure style with AmaWaterways’ Christmas Markets on the Rhine, an enchanting 10-day journey that blends European charm with luxurious river cruising. Begin your holiday with a 3-night stay in beautiful Basel, Switzerland, before boarding the elegant AmaSiena for a 7-night all-inclusive cruise through some of Europe’s most iconic Christmas markets. From the storybook streets of Strasbourg and the twinkling stalls of Cologne to the riverside charm of Rüdesheim and the romantic canals of Amsterdam, each port brings the wonder of the season to life. Enjoy gourmet dining with included drinks, immersive excursions at every stop, and seamless transfers throughout.

 

Ref: 732846

 

Call us on 01 905 9008 or email holidays@thetravelsuite.ie

More About This Cruise

What to Expect

Cruise Features

Your Ship – AmaSiena

 

Curate your festive journey

Experience the magic of Europe’s most enchanting Christmas markets aboard AmaSiena, with luxurious river cruising, gourmet dining, immersive cultural excursions, and festive cheer in every port. From Basel to Amsterdam, discover timeless seasonal traditions while enjoying five-star service and riverfront elegance.

Dining

Savour expertly prepared regional cuisine and festive favourites, with all meals included onboard. Complimentary fine wines and beers accompany lunch and dinner, ensuring every meal is a celebration of the season.

Lounging

Unwind in a warm, intimate atmosphere as you glide along the Rhine. Enjoy panoramic views, seasonal décor, and nightly entertainment that embraces local culture and holiday charm.

Wellness

Relax and rejuvenate with onboard wellness facilities and gentle fitness options. A river cruise designed for balance—where comfort and calm flow effortlessly together.

Excursions

Step ashore into the heart of Europe’s most iconic Christmas markets. From Strasbourg’s storybook stalls to Cologne’s festive squares, all guided excursions are included, revealing the unique charm of each destination.

Entertainment

Celebrate the season with curated onboard entertainment that captures the spirit of each country visited—live music, local performances, and immersive storytelling to warm the soul.

11-Day AMA WATERWAYS Christmas Markets Cruise Itinerary

Day 1 – Basel, Switzerland (Pre-Cruise Stay Begins)
Arrive in charming Basel and check in to your hotel for the start of your magical Christmas adventure. Spend the afternoon exploring the city’s Old Town, festive markets, and scenic Rhine riverfront.

Day 2 – Basel, Switzerland
Enjoy a full day to discover Basel’s rich cultural offerings. Visit the renowned Kunstmuseum, stroll along medieval streets, and soak in the joyful atmosphere of the city’s Christmas markets.

Day 3 – Basel, Switzerland
Savor your final day ashore before embarking. Perhaps take an optional day trip to nearby Lucerne or the Black Forest. In the evening, prepare for the start of your cruise journey.

Day 4 – Basel, Switzerland (Cruise Embarkation)
Board the AmaSiena and settle into your luxurious surroundings. Enjoy a welcome dinner and toast to the journey ahead as your ship departs Basel for Strasbourg.


Departure: Evening

Day 5 – Strasbourg, France
Arrive in the heart of Alsace. Explore the UNESCO-listed Grande Île, visit the stunning Strasbourg Cathedral, and delight in one of Europe’s oldest Christmas markets.


Arrival: Morning | Departure: Evening

Day 6 – Ludwigshafen, Germany
Today, choose from excursions including a visit to the university city of Heidelberg with its romantic castle or explore Speyer, one of Germany’s oldest cities.


Arrival: Morning | Departure: Afternoon

Day 7 – Rüdesheim & Lahnstein, Germany
Spend your morning in Rüdesheim, famous for its quaint Drosselgasse alley and festive charm. Later, cruise to Lahnstein for a festive celebration inside a medieval castle.


Rüdesheim Arrival: Morning | Departure: Late Morning
Lahnstein Arrival: Afternoon | Departure: Evening

Day 8 – Cologne, Germany
Arrive in Cologne and tour its striking Gothic cathedral. Then enjoy free time at the city’s atmospheric Christmas markets, spread across several lively squares.
Arrival: Morning | Departure: Evening

Day 9 – Amsterdam, Netherlands
Sail into the Netherlands and explore the artistic and architectural beauty of Amsterdam. Optional excursions include a canal cruise or a walking tour of the historic Jordaan district.
Arrival: Afternoon | Overnight in Port

Day 10 – Amsterdam, Netherlands (Disembarkation)
Disembark your ship after breakfast and bid farewell to the AmaSiena. Spend the day exploring more of Amsterdam or begin your onward journey.


Disembarkation: Morning

Day 11 – Travel Home
Conclude your festive journey through Europe’s most magical Christmas markets and return home with memories of twinkling lights, historic cities, and holiday cheer.

The Travel Suite Difference

Why you should book your holiday with us

At The Travel Suite – we have a Suite of reasons why booking your holiday will make you happy!

 

We have been curating travel for over 25 years

We offer personal concierge service

You are in the hands of an exceptional and experienced team

Our experiences are unique and tailor-made

The Travel Suite team nurtures personal connections with many hotels, resorts and airlines around the world to ensure your holiday is world class

You have peace of mind when booking with The Travel Suite team

Whenever you need us we are on-hand to assist

We work with the most trusted brands who will go above and beyond for you.

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Licenced by the Irish Aviation Authority, TA0443

Call 01 817 3586 to find out more about this offer.

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