Glittering fairy lights, pretty wooden stalls, and the aroma of mulled wine, roast almonds and spiced cider filling the air... there's nothing that gets you in the festive spirit quicker than a traditional Christmas market and this cruise will take you to several of Germany's best.
You'll begin your cruise in Cologne, where you'll have time to get to know this famous cathedral city before setting sail along the Rhine Valley to visit Rüdesheim, the centre of Rhine Romanticism, Mainz one of the oldest cities in Germany, and Frankfurt, where its towering Christmas tree takes centre stage.
Koblenz is also on your itinerary, where you'll see what is considered one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in Germany, and where you can try a variety of delicacies here.
You'll be sailing on the stylish A-ROSA BRAVA with a sauna, whirlpool, extensive breakfast, lunch and dinner buffets, and a range of drinks.
You'll start your Christmas cruise on the Rhine today, boarding your premium all-inclusive A-ROSA ship. You'll be boarding your ship in Cologne, where you can spend some time getting to know this enchanting cathedral city with its many elegant buildings and historical attractions.
You might choose to arrive one day before your cruise so that you'll have time to see all the sights, or extend your stay at the end of the trip.
Today you will visit Rüdesheim, the centre of Rhine Romanticism, which once inspired poets and musicians, including Brahms.
From a cultural point of view, the most famous place in the Rheingau has a lot to offer, including historic aristocratic estates and fortifications. Rüdesheim is also known for its winemaking, especially of aromatic Riesling wines. You may also want to stop off in one of the town's cafes to sip some delicious speciality Rüdesheimer Kaffee, an alcoholic coffee-based drink made with brandy and plenty of sugar.
You'll also visit Mainz today, a city with 2,000 years of history, making it one of the oldest cities in Germany. Traditions are fully celebrated at Christmastime at the historic Christmas market on the Domplatz, where you'll also spot the illuminated Mainz Cathedral.
Although Frankfurt is possibly better known for its business activity, it proves that it can do Christmas as well as with its tall, sparkling Christmas tree.
Between Römerberg and the historic Paulskirche down to the banks of the Main, one of the most beautiful and oldest Christmas markets in Germany takes place every winter.
There's plenty of opportunity to sample local delicacies here, with regional products such as Bethmännchen, a marzipan pastry with almonds, or hot apple wine being particularly popular.
Today you'll sail along the Middle Rhine Valley from Frankfurt to lovely Koblenz, at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers. This stretch of the river is the true centre of Rhine Romanticism, with vine-clad slopes, palaces and castles scattered across hills, and villages nestled along the riverbanks. It is clear why this area was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2002.
On arrival in Koblenz you'll get to see why this city's Christmas market is considered one of the most beautiful on the Rhine. On Jesuitenplatz you'll find what is possibly the world's largest Advent calendar, made up of the colourfully-lit windows of the baroque town hall.
Your Christmas cruise comes to an end today as your ship docks once again in Cologne. You might wish to extend your trip to see more of this beautiful city before heading home full of the Christmas spirit.
The A-ROSA BRAVA has 99 cabins, two with a connecting door per deck. Enjoy onboard activities including putting green, shuffleboard and a giant chessboard. There is a whirlpool, gym and the Spa is a special place to relax and rejuvenate. You’ll be able to dine indoors or on the sun deck when the weather is good. The bar and lounge provide the perfect space to enjoy an excellent schedule of nightly entertainment.
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