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Festive Christmas Markets on the Rhine 2025

Immerse yourself in the festive magic of Rhine River cities on a Christmas cruise, exploring holiday markets in Basel, Cologne, Mainz, and Bonn, and enjoying seasonal treats and enchanting decorations.

Embark on the Riverside Luxury River Cruise’s "Festive Christmas on the Rhine," an enchanting holiday journey aboard the elegant MS Debussy. This luxurious vessel offers an intimate and sophisticated cruising experience, blending modern comforts with classic charm. As you glide along the scenic Rhine River, you'll visit some of Germany and Switzerland's most picturesque cities, each adorned in festive splendor.

Start your adventure in Basel, where the aroma of fresh gingerbread and mulled wine fills the air at the city’s bustling Christmas market. Continue to Strasbourg, home to one of the oldest and most celebrated Christmas markets in Europe. Next, explore the magical markets of Mannheim and Rüdesheim, known for their delightful crafts and festive decorations. Experience the allure of Cologne, with its impressive cathedral and numerous themed markets, and wander through the charming town of Mainz, illuminated by glittering holiday lights.

Throughout your journey, the MS Debussy will be your luxurious retreat, offering exquisite dining, spacious accommodations, and panoramic views of the Rhine’s winter landscapes. Join us for a holiday cruise that promises unforgettable moments and a rich tapestry of European Christmas traditions.

Christmas Market Cruise 2025 Itinerary

Embark on Riverside Luxury River Cruise’s "Festive Christmas on the Rhine," a seven-day holiday adventure aboard the exquisite MS Debussy. This luxurious journey takes you through the heart of Europe's most enchanting Christmas destinations along the scenic Rhine River.

December 11, 2025

Your festive voyage begins in Basel, where the air is filled with the delightful scents of fresh gingerbread and mulled wine. Stroll through the city’s vibrant Christmas market, one of the largest and most charming in Switzerland, and soak in the holiday spirit with every step.

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December 12, 2025

Sail into Germany and dock at Kehl, a gateway to the historic and picturesque Strasbourg. Explore its famed Christmas market, a wonderland of twinkling lights, artisan crafts, and delectable holiday treats. Discover why Strasbourg’s festive celebration is one of the oldest and most beloved in Europe.

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December 13, 2025

Continue your journey to Mannheim, where the holiday cheer is palpable in its bustling Christmas market. Wander through stalls brimming with traditional crafts, ornaments, and seasonal delicacies, all set against a backdrop of festive decorations that light up the town.

December 14, 2025

In Frankfurt, experience the blend of modern and traditional festivities at the city’s renowned Christmas market. Marvel at the historic Römer square, transformed into a holiday paradise with stalls offering a variety of unique gifts, foods, and holiday delights.

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December 15, 2025

Awake in Mainz, a city aglow with glittering holiday lights. Take a horse-drawn carriage ride through its charming streets and enjoy the festive atmosphere of the local Christmas market. Later, sail to Bonn, where the enchanting market on Münsterplatz awaits. Savor a cup of hot cocoa as carolers fill the air with joyous holiday songs.

December 16, 2025

Begin your day with more festive exploration in Bonn before heading to Cologne. Here, the towering Christmas tree in front of the impressive cathedral and the numerous themed markets spread throughout the city create a magical holiday setting. Wander through the market stalls, savoring traditional handicrafts and seasonal treats.

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December 17, 2025

Conclude your enchanting cruise in Düsseldorf, where the holiday spirit is alive in its Christmas markets and festive decorations. Reflect on the unforgettable experiences and memories made during your Christmas journey along the Rhine.

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The suites on the SS Debussey set new standards in the world of river cruises.Furnished with the finest materials, refined fabrics, velvet and leather, all have elegant bathrooms and king-size beds. Not luridly colourful, but in the natural colours of the landscape. Through large panorama windows, you can take in all the beauty nature has to offer, even from the comfort of your bed. Our suites vary only in nuance – and size. What comfort!

  • Melody Suite -  183 sq ft with a french balcony. Simply beautiful. Almost small worlds of comfort in themselves – with king-size bed and rain shower in the marble-tiled bathroom. The colours in these suites blend into a successful unity.​

Larger suites may be available upon request.

What's Included

  • All meals onboard, prepared using the finest and freshest ingredients

  • Gratuities for onboard personnel (ship staff, crew, Cruise/Tour Manager) are included during the cruise/tour

  • A 10%, non-refundable deposit is due at time of booking.

  • Final payment due April 1, 2024

PRICING

Double Occupancy

Rates per person

Classic Stateroom - $3,219

Deluxe Stateroom - $3,919

French Balcony - $4,819

Suite - $7,619

Grand Suite - $9,819

Single Occupancy

Rates per person

Classic Stateroom - $5,019

Deluxe Stateroom - $6,069

French Balcony - $7,419

Suite - $15,618

Grand Suite - $20,018

What you need to know

  • Rooms are available on a first-come-first-serve basis.

  • International airfare is not included in your pricing. If you need assistance making flight arrangements, please click here for Airfare Assistance.

  • Arrange your flights to arrive and depart out of Bordeaux-Mérignac International Airport.

  • All flight information must be submitted to The Curious Traveler by June 15, 2024.

  • Arrival transfers are provided only on August 4, 2024.

  • Departure transfers are provided only on August 11, 2024.

  • You must hold a passport that is valid for 6 months after August 11, 2024. The passport must have one (1) blank page available for entry stamp.

  • Optional Travel Insurance is not included in your pricing.  We will send you a quote via email once your deposit is submitted.

  • We cannot accommodate wheelchairs or assistive mobility devices on this trip.

  • Any optional expenses or expenses related to anything not specifically listed in this itinerary are not included.

Cancellation Policy

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