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Open Monday — Friday

9am - 5pm

5 Day Christmas Markets On The Rhine River Cruise

from

$1,399
Per Person

Typically $1,599
Sail the Rhine and experience Europe’s most magical Christmas markets. Festive lights, mulled wine, and holiday cheer await!

the tour

Step into a winter wonderland on a Christmas Markets cruise along the Rhine. Twinkling lights, festive aromas, and charming wooden stalls create an enchanting holiday atmosphere. This unforgettable journey takes you through Germany’s most magical Christmas markets, where the spirit of the season fills the air.

Your adventure begins in Strasbourg, home to one of Europe’s oldest and most spectacular Christmas markets. Wander through the city’s historic centre, where half-timbered houses and glowing decorations set the perfect festive scene. Then, cruise to Speyer and Heidelberg, where beautifully decorated stalls overflow with artisan crafts, handcrafted ornaments, and seasonal treats.

In Rüdesheim, visit the famous Christmas Market of Nations, featuring over 120 stalls with gifts from around the world. The lively Drosselgasse is filled with music, mulled wine, and holiday cheer, making it an unforgettable stop.

Sailing through the breathtaking Rhine Valley, admire fairy-tale castles and the legendary Lorelei Rock, a spectacular sight during winter. Arriving in Koblenz, take a funicular ride to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress for stunning panoramic views before exploring the city’s festive market.

No Christmas cruise is complete without a stop in Cologne, where the scent of gingerbread, roasted almonds, and spiced wine fills the crisp winter air. Marvel at the grand Cologne Cathedral, beautifully illuminated against the night sky, while browsing the city’s many Christmas markets.

With guided tours, cosy onboard evenings, and festive entertainment, this Christmas Markets cruise is the perfect way to celebrate the season.

INCLUSIONS

Experience Europe’s magical Christmas markets on this 4-night Rhine River Cruise with all meals, drinks, and onboard activities. Enjoy a festive December with departures in 2025 by securing your spot today with a *50% DEPOSIT (Terms & Conditions apply). This cruise also travels in the opposite direction from Cologne to Strasburg. Call us to find out more.

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Itinerary

Day 1: Strasbourg, France

Step aboard our ship at 6:00 pm and settle in for an incredible journey. Meet our friendly crew over a welcome cocktail, setting the perfect tone for the adventure ahead. Then, sit back and enjoy a relaxing evening of entertainment as we begin our Christmas Markets Along the Rhine cruise.

MEALS: Dinner

OVERNIGHT: MS Lafayette OR MS Mona Lisa

Day 2: Strasbourg ~ Speyer, Germany

This morning, we’ll cruise towards Speyer, soaking in the scenic views along the way. In the afternoon, explore the city at your own pace or join an optional excursion to Heidelberg and its Christmas Market.

MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

OVERNIGHT: MS Lafayette OR MS Mona Lisa

OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS

Guided tour of Heidelberg and its castle (outdoor)

We’ll leave by coach from Mannheim to Heidelberg. Its unique charm comes from the harmonious combination of romanticism, dynamism, legend and modernity. We’ll take a guided tour of the outsides of the Heidelberg Castle on foot. It is partially in ruins, and as such has inspired generations of painters and poets ever since the 18th century. They perceived the damaged castle as a testimony to the grandeur and decadence of human creations. Goethe, Hölderlin, Uhland and Eichendorff celebrated the landscape surrounding the castle while many others took it as a model itself. Don’t miss the geometric terraces of the Palatinate gardens, once considered the “8th world wonder”. The gardens’ architect, Salomon de Caus, wanted to recreate the harmony with which city, river and hills all around intertwined. After this guided tour, you will take the coach down into the Neckarmünzplatz in the old historic city centre for a guided tour on foot. You will admire the Saint-Esprit Church (exterior view) and will have some free time for shopping before taking the coach back to the boat. On the way back you will go through the city centre of Mannheim, where you will find the boat.

NOTE

  • The access to the castle needs to climb up a 300m gradient.
  • We cannot visit the inside of the castle at this time of year.
  • Good walking shoes are recommended.
  • The order of the visits can change.
  • Times are approximate.

DURATION: TBC

Day 3: Speyer ~ Rüdesheim

Spend the morning cruising towards Rüdesheim, taking in the stunning riverside scenery. In the afternoon, join an optional city tour by tourist train.

MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

OVERNIGHT: MS Lafayette OR MS Mona Lisa

OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS

Rudesheim: small train and Music Museum

A little train will take us through the small alleyways of Rudesheim. The visit will continue to the Music Museum, located in an old building from the 15th century, close to the Drosselgasse. We’ll visit the “Siegfrieds Mechanisches Musikkabinett” which holds an impressive collection of no less than 350 mechanical musical instruments dating back to the 18th century to the 20th, all spread out on more than 4000 ft².

“You won’t believe your ears” once you embark on a musical adventure into the world of historical automated instruments. This is a vast collection, dating back three centuries, of fascinating musical instruments that function like computers, ranging from tiny, delicate music boxes to an enormous orchestrion. Tools and machines for the production of organ pipes, cardboard sheet music, rolls of sheet music and perforated disks are also on display in the collection.

You will then walk down the Drosselgasse, famous for its small restaurants with orchestras. Free time and return on board on foot.

NOTE

  • The order of the visits can change.
  • Times are approximate.
  • Good walking shoes are recommended.

DURATION: 2 hrs

Day 4: Rüdesheim ~ Koblenz

This morning, cruise through the breathtaking Rhine Valley, where every bend in the river unveils another fairy-tale castle perched above rolling vineyards. The Rhine River has inspired countless legends, including the story of the Rock of the Lorelei, said to lure sailors with its enchanting song.

In the afternoon, join an optional tour of Koblenz and Ehrenbreitstein Fortress.

Tonight, enjoy a special gala dinner on board as we continue our journey. The ship will cruise overnight to Cologne, ready for the final day of your Christmas Markets Along the Rhine adventure.

MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

OVERNIGHT: MS Lafayette OR MS Mona Lisa

OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS

Koblenz and the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress

Situated at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers, Koblenz offers visitors a rich collection of cultural monuments and historic buildings. Ludwig van Beethoven’s mother was born in the city, and Mozart’s family once sojourned here on a trip from Paris to London.

We’ll take the funicular railway up the hill to visit the historic castle, where we’ll have a magnificent view across the city and valleys. You’ll immediately understand the strategical importance of this fortress throughout history as the land stretches as far as the eye can see.

Afterwards, enjoy some free time at the Christmas market, where the yuletide tradition has taken place for centuries. The romantic holiday market runs from the old city to the famous Deutsches Eck. Explore the city on your own before returning to the ship.

NOTE

  • The order of the visits can change.
  • Times are approximate.

DURATION: 3 hrs

Day 5: Cologne – Disembark Ship ~ Strasbourg

Enjoy a relaxed breakfast on board as we arrive in Cologne. After a magical journey through the Christmas Markets Along the Rhine, it’s time to disembark at 9:00 am.

A coach transfer to Strasbourg may be available if required. Safe travels and happy holidays!

MEALS: Breakfast

Description

Step into a winter wonderland on a Christmas Markets cruise along the Rhine. Twinkling lights, festive aromas, and charming wooden stalls create an enchanting holiday atmosphere. This unforgettable journey takes you through Germany’s most magical Christmas markets, where the spirit of the season fills the air.

Your adventure begins in Strasbourg, home to one of Europe’s oldest and most spectacular Christmas markets. Wander through the city’s historic centre, where half-timbered houses and glowing decorations set the perfect festive scene. Then, cruise to Speyer and Heidelberg, where beautifully decorated stalls overflow with artisan crafts, handcrafted ornaments, and seasonal treats.

In Rüdesheim, visit the famous Christmas Market of Nations, featuring over 120 stalls with gifts from around the world. The lively Drosselgasse is filled with music, mulled wine, and holiday cheer, making it an unforgettable stop.

Sailing through the breathtaking Rhine Valley, admire fairy-tale castles and the legendary Lorelei Rock, a spectacular sight during winter. Arriving in Koblenz, take a funicular ride to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress for stunning panoramic views before exploring the city’s festive market.

No Christmas cruise is complete without a stop in Cologne, where the scent of gingerbread, roasted almonds, and spiced wine fills the crisp winter air. Marvel at the grand Cologne Cathedral, beautifully illuminated against the night sky, while browsing the city’s many Christmas markets.

With guided tours, cosy onboard evenings, and festive entertainment, this Christmas Markets cruise is the perfect way to celebrate the season.

INCLUSIONS

Experience Europe’s magical Christmas markets on this 4-night Rhine River Cruise with all meals, drinks, and onboard activities. Enjoy a festive December with departures in 2025 by securing your spot today with a *50% DEPOSIT (Terms & Conditions apply). This cruise also travels in the opposite direction from Cologne to Strasburg. Call us to find out more.

INCLUSIONS

 

4 Night Rhine River cruise

4x Breakfasts, 3x Lunch, 4x Dinner

Drinks with meals and at the bar (except for drinks from the specials list)

Onboard multi-lingual host/hostess

Welcome cocktail

Gala dinner

Onboard entertainment

Port fees

Complimentary Wifi

EXCLUSIONS

 

International flights – Contact us to add to your package

Travel insurance

Optional excursions

Transfers / travel to and from departure/arrival points

Drinks from our special lists, or drinks ordered during excursions or transfers

Personal expenses

Gratuities

Anything not mention in INCLUSIONS

DEPARTURE DATES

 

DEPARTURE DATES 2025:

*1 December: MS Lafayette

*9 December: MS Lafayette

10 December: MS Mona Lisa

 

Dates marked with a * incur a $200 per person surcharge

 

MS LAFAYETTE

MS LAFAYETTE

Named after the Marquis de Lafayette, a key figure in both French and American history, MS Lafayette offers an intimate and elegant cruise experience along the majestic Rhine River. Completely renovated in 2014, this Premium ship blends modern comfort with a warm, inviting atmosphere, making it the perfect vessel for discovering Europe’s most enchanting waterways.

Features

  • Length: 90 metres
  • Width: 10.1 metres
  • Year Built: 1992
  • Year Renovated: 2014
  • Decks: 2
  • Cabins: 43 (82 passengers max.)
  • Crew: 24

 

Onboard Amenities

  • Restaurant: Located on the Upper Deck, the restaurant offers a refined dining experience with panoramic windows, allowing guests to enjoy breathtaking views while savouring exquisite cuisine.
  • Lounge Bar with Dance Floor: At the front of the ship, the stylish lounge is the heart of the social scene, hosting cocktails, live music, and entertainment.
  • Sun Deck: Relax and take in the scenery from the spacious sun deck, featuring comfortable loungers and shaded areas, perfect for unwinding as the landscapes glide by.
  • Reception Desk & Gift Shop: Meet up with fellow travellers before excursions or browse the gift shop, offering souvenirs, CroisiEurope products, and postcards.
  • Fitness Area: Start the day with a morning fitness session on the sun deck, surrounded by fresh air and scenic river views.

 

Cabins

Upper Deck: 14 cabins with French balconies and sliding windows

  • Category A: 10 double cabins
  • Category B: 1 double cabin, 1 PRM cabin, 2 single cabins

 

Main Deck: 29 cabins with high sliding windows

  • Category A: 12 double cabins
  • Category B: 4 double cabins
  • Category C: 11 double cabins, 2 single cabins

 

All cabins (10–15m²) feature TV, internal telephone, safe, towels, independent air-conditioning, private bathroom with shower & toilet, Wi-Fi, and 220V electricity. (Please note: Laundry service is not available onboard.)

 

Highlights

  • Premium river cruise experience with modern comforts and elegant décor
  • Panoramic windows throughout, providing spectacular views of the Rhine
  • Lively onboard atmosphere, with entertainment, music, and social spaces
  • Intimate and personalised setting, ensuring a relaxed and immersive journey

 

The MS Lafayette invites you to discover the magic of the Rhine, where history, culture, and natural beauty come together for an unforgettable river cruise experience.

MS MONA LISA

MS MONA LISA

Inspired by Leonardo da Vinci’s masterpiece, the MS Mona Lisa offers an elegant and intimate Premium river cruise experience. Sailing on the Elbe, Danube, and Rhine, this stylish vessel takes passengers through some of Europe’s most stunning cultural and natural landscapes.

Features

  • Length: 82 metres
  • Width: 9.5 metres
  • Year Built: 2000
  • Year Renovated: 2010
  • Decks: 2
  • Cabins: 47 (94 passengers max.)
  • Crew: 22

 

Onboard Amenities

  • Restaurant: Located on the Upper Deck, the restaurant serves all meals in an elegant setting with panoramic windows that showcase breathtaking scenery.
  • Lounge Bar with Dance Floor: Spanning the bow of the ship, this stylish lounge offers cocktails, live entertainment, and social gatherings, all with stunning river views.
  • Sun Deck: Unwind on the spacious sun deck, equipped with recliners and deck chairs—the perfect spot to enjoy the passing landscapes.
  • Reception Desk & Gift Shop: Meet fellow travellers before excursions or explore the gift shop, stocked with souvenirs, CroisiEurope products, and postcards.
  • Fitness Area: Start your morning with a guided fitness session on the sun deck while taking in the fresh air and beautiful views.

 

Cabins

Upper Deck: 18 cabins with high sliding windows

  • Category A: 14 double cabins
  • Category B: 4 double cabins

 

Main Deck: 29 cabins with windows

  • Category A: 12 double cabins
  • Category B: 5 double cabins
  • Category C: 12 double cabins

 

All cabins (varied sizes) feature TV, internal telephone, safe, towels, independent air-conditioning, private bathroom with shower & toilet, Wi-Fi, and 220V electricity. (Please note: Laundry service is not available onboard.)

 

Highlights

  • Premium river cruise experience blending comfort and elegance
  • Panoramic views from the restaurant and lounge
  • Chic onboard atmosphere, with live entertainment and social spaces
  • Immersive journeys through Europe’s cultural and historic waterways

 

Sail the Elbe, Danube, and Rhine aboard the MS Mona Lisa for a cruise experience filled with culture, comfort, and captivating landscapes.

UPGRADES & OPTIONS

 

UPGRADE YOUR CABIN:

Choose your option in the “Buy Now” section.

  • Upper Deck – $400 person.

 

OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS:

Pre-book your excursions and save:

  • Koblenz and the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress: $110
  • Guided tour of Heidelberg and its castle (outdoor): $130
  • Rudesheim: small train and Music Museum: $65

All excursions prices are per person

CROISI CRUISES

 

CANCELLATION & REFUNDS:

This package is subject to Croisi’s terms and conditions.

By purchasing this package, you agree to Croisi’s terms and conditions as well as MyHoliday2’s terms and conditions.

 

MANDATORY INFORMATION

For the safety of our passengers, the captain and crew of the boat may decide to modify the navigational itinerary.

(1) Optional excursions.

Alcohol can damage your health. Please drink in moderation.

 

FORMALITIES

Valid national identity card or passport required. Non-EU nationals are advised to consult their embassy or consulate.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION

 

OFFER:

By purchasing this package, you agree to MyHoliday2’s Terms and Conditions and the specific terms detailed in each information tab of the package.

The package is valid for one person based on twin share.

Bookings are subject to availability.

 

GROUP SIZE: 

Minimum of 2 people

Maximum: N/A

If minimum numbers are not met, you will be requested to change to a different date.

Some tours can be guaranteed with fewer participants; however, surcharges will apply.

If you are unable to change dates, a credit or refund will be offered in accordance with MyHoliday2’s refund policy.

 

SINGLE TRAVELLERS:  

For solo travellers, a mandatory single supplement applies.

$750 per person

 

Accommodation for single customers on a tour or cruise package may be in a single room, subject to availability.  

 

CHILDREN POLICY:

Children under the age of 2 travel free of charge in existing bedding 

Children aged 2-8: 80% of adult rate. 

Children aged 9+ are classified as adults. 

Child discounts are only applicable if travelling with two full paying adults. 

Maximum room capacity is 2 adults and 1 child.    

 

AMENDMENTS:

Any amendments are subject to the supplier’s terms and conditions. 

Any changes will incur a $100 per person amendment fee PLUS any additional fees applied by the supplier. 

All changes must be requested in writing. 

No changes can be made within 90 days of departure.

The standard cancellation policy will apply. 

If unable to select new dates, a credit valid for 12 months may be offered.   

 

CANCELLATION POLICY: 

Cancellations are subject to MyHoliday2’s Terms and Conditions. 

Refunds and credits will be offered in accordance with MyHoliday2’s Refund Policy.   

 

PAYMENT PLANS:  

MyHoliday2 offers a variety of payment plans based on your tour departure date.

Refer to our Terms and Conditions for details. 

All payment plans incur a 2% surcharge, paid with the deposit. 

If the wrong plan is selected, a $25 fee will be charged to manually amend all invoices.   

 

TOURS, DRIVERS & GUIDES:

Day tours included may involve joining larger groups. 

Drivers do not provide information on tours. 

Drivers may assist in organising expert guides at certain locations.  

Guides may require communication via Whatsapp. 

Refer to INCLUSIONS for the type of guides included in this package. 

For more information on guides, refer to the Terms and Conditions.   

 

TRANSFERS:

Refer to INCLUSIONS/EXCLUSIONS to determine if a transfer is applicable and the type of transfer included. 

If you have booked your own flights, send flight details to booking@myholiday2.com.au to confirm transfers. 

Contact details for our local tour operator can be found on your voucher in your online account.   

Group Transfer 

The timing of group transfers will be set to accommodate the majority of arrival and departure flights. 

If you arrive early or depart late, you may need to wait or make your own way to the hotel or airport at your own expense. 

As you clear immigration, look for a MyHoliday2 sign with your name.   

Private Transfer: 

As you clear immigration, look for a MyHoliday2 sign with your name.   

 

OTHER INFORMATION:

A 25% deposit is non-refundable. 

Prices are in AUD$. 

Travel insurance is highly recommended.

MyHoliday2 takes no responsibility for any travel issues that may arise. 

MyHoliday2 pricing reflects current market rates which may fluctuate from day to day.  

MyHoliday2 is not obliged to refund or match any subsequent price reductions after purchase. 

Customers must obtain the correct visa for their destination and cover associated fees.

Please check visa and travel requirements via the Smartraveller website. 

For any medical-related information, refer to Smartraveller or contact a travel medical specialist. 

Customers must ensure their passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond the intended stay. 

MyHoliday2 pricing reflects market rates, so package prices may fluctuate, and refunds to match subsequent price reductions are not guaranteed. 

Departures are not guaranteed until confirmation. 

If advertised availability is not present post-purchase, another date selection is necessary.   

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