SCENIC°
8 Days | Rhine Christmas Markets
Northbound
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ZURICH TO AMSTERDAM
Discover the canals of Amsterdam and marvel at the highlights of the legendary Rhine during your cruise through the World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge. Visit Rüdesheim and explore Cologne's Christmas markets. Take in Koblenz, explore Heidelberg Castle and venture on to charming Strasbourg and Basel. Thrill at the magical traditions of Christmas with the fragrant aroma of glühwein, roasted chestnuts and bustling markets bursting with festive excitement.
Day 1 | Zurich, Switzerland. Embark. Raise your glass to the marvellous cruise ahead of you at this evening’s welcome reception. Your journey into wonder is about to begin. (NOTE: Please ensure your flight arrives before 13:00 [1:00 pm] in Zurich and 15:00 [3:00 pm] in Basel.) (D)
Day 2 | Strasbourg, France. Enjoy a guided tour of Strasbourg, where you’ll discover La Petite France and stroll through the Old Town with its half-timbered houses and distinctive Alsatian winstubs. During your free time you might wish to explore stalls of Strasbourg’s Christkindelsmärik, one of the largest Christmas markets in Europe. (B,L,D)
Day 3 | Baden Baden, Germany. Arrive in charming Baden Baden, a popular spa town famous for its Roman baths. (B,L,D)
Freechoice. Join a guided tour of this picturesque town and learn of its rich heritage or take an active hike to Hohenbaden Castle and take in the scenic views of the Black Forest. Alternatively, visit the Mercedes-Benz factory and learn about the fascinating history of this luxury brand.
Enrich. Enjoy a private evening concert at a fine Baroque palace. It’ll be an evening of grandeur unlike any other, and a chance to create memories that you’ll cherish for a lifetime.
Day 4 | Mannheim. (B,L,D)
Freechoice. Uncover the fascinating history of Heidelberg, including a visit to its fine Renaissance castle, or enjoy an orientation tour of Heidelberg’s quaint old town, followed by some leisure time.
Day 5 | Koblenz. One of Germany’s oldest cities is turned into a Christmas paradise in the advent season, ideal for romantic strolls. (B,L,D)
Freechoice. Take a guided tour of this historic city, which straddles two of Europe’s most beautiful rivers. Six tranquil places in the old part of Koblenz offer more than 100 glittering, festive, cottage-style stands and Lebkuchenherzen – traditional gingerbread hearts – to create a magical European Christmas experience. Alternatively, discover Cochem – a true medieval gem on the banks of the Moselle River. You’ll feel as if you’re stepping straight into a fairytale on a guided tour that culminates in a visit to the iconic Reichsburg Castle.
Day 6 | Cologne. Stroll through Cologne on a guided city tour and get up close to the filigree twin towers of the famous cathedral. Enjoy free time and perhaps visit Cologne Cathedral markets, home to the largest Christmas tree in the Rhineland. (B,L,D)
Day 7 | Amsterdam, The Netherlands. This afternoon, you may wish to visit one of the many Christmas markets in the Dutch capital. Perhaps sample delicious Dutch treats such as Olibol and Poffertjes, or peruse the stalls for some last minute traditional gifts, or simply wander the streets taking in the magic of Amsterdam at this special time of the year. (B,L,D)
Freechoice. Experience an iconic canal cruise. Alternatively, discover charming Volendam before visiting the equally lovely village of Edam, or take to the streets with a local guide on the walking tour including a tasting of the Dutch favourite, herring.
Day 8 | Amsterdam. Disembark. After breakfast, you’ll be transferred to Amsterdam airport for your onward or homebound flight, taking a lifetime of wonderful memories back with you. (B)
NOTE: Itinerary is subject to change without notice. For the most up-to-date information, please refer to the itinerary schedule you receive with your final documents.
NORTHBOUND ITINERARY 8 DAYS | ZURICH TO AMSTERDAM Click HERE to view 8-day SOUTHBOUND itinerary. |
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