Christmastime on the Romantic Rhine (Southbound)

Day 1 – Dec 13 | Frankfurt, Germany (Hotel Stay)
Arrive in Frankfurt and check into the elegant Westin Grand Frankfurt. Spend the evening exploring the nearby Christmas markets, where twinkling lights, festive music, and the scent of roasted chestnuts fill the air.

Day 2 – Dec 14 | Frankfurt – Embarkation
Enjoy a leisurely morning in Frankfurt before transferring to your Avalon Suite Ship®. In the afternoon, embark and settle into your spacious stateroom. That evening, sail down the Rhine as the holiday spirit begins to unfold.

Day 3 – Dec 15 | Mainz & Rüdesheim, Germany
Discover the charm of Mainz, home to one of Germany’s oldest Christmas markets. Later, visit Rüdesheim, famous for its holiday stalls, music boxes, and locally-crafted Christmas ornaments.

Day 4 – Dec 16 | Rhine Gorge – Koblenz, Germany
Cruise through the breathtaking Rhine Gorge, a UNESCO World Heritage site dotted with castles and vineyards. Stop in Koblenz, where festive markets line the squares and holiday cheer fills the streets.

Day 5 – Dec 17 | Cologne, Germany
Experience the magic of Cologne’s Christmas Market beneath the stunning Gothic cathedral. Sip mulled wine, shop for handmade gifts, and soak in the joyful holiday atmosphere.

Day 6 – Dec 18 | Heidelberg – Speyer, Germany
Take an excursion to Heidelberg, with its romantic castle overlooking the Neckar River and a Christmas market full of charm. Later, stroll through Speyer, a historic city with festive streets and holiday treats.

Day 7 – Dec 19 | Strasbourg, France
Cross into France for a day in Strasbourg, home to the famous “Christkindelsmärik.” Wander medieval squares, enjoy holiday delicacies, and admire one of Europe’s most celebrated Christmas markets.

Day 8 – Dec 20 | Breisach, Germany – Black Forest
Explore the legendary Black Forest, where holiday traditions come alive. From handmade cuckoo clocks to Black Forest cake, this region brings a cozy winter wonderland feel to your journey.

Day 9 – Dec 21 | Basel, Switzerland (Disembarkation)
Your magical Christmas markets cruise concludes in Basel. After breakfast, disembark and either head home or extend your holiday adventure in Switzerland.