Rhine Christmas Markets
2020 Amsterdam > Basel
Christmas markets delight
Admire festive decorations and twinkling lights along streets and squares – even your Scenic Space-Ship will be decked out in all the Christmas finery.
- Tour Code:
- XAMB
- Duration:
- 8 days
- Departure City:
- Amsterdam
- Return City:
- Basel
Selected Itinerary
8 Day Itinerary
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Day 1 - UK > Amsterdam
Fly to Amsterdam from one of up to 16 UK airports. If you'd prefer not to fly, why not take advantage of our Eurostar No-fly option at no extra cost and travel Standard Premier Class from St. Pancras international to Brussells and onto Amsterdams in First Class? You'll then be transferred to your Scenic Spae-ship. This evening, raise your glass to a fabulous curise at this evening's welcome reception.
Meals Included: Dinner
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Day 2 - Amsterdam
FreechoiceExperience an iconic cruise of Amsterdam’s canals or take to the streets with a local guide on a walking tour including a tasting of the Dutch favourite, herring. Or if you’re feeling more active, join a guided cycling tour. Alternatively, discover charming Volendam before visiting the equally lovely village of Edam.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Day 3 - 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.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Day 4 - Koblenz
One of Germany’s oldest cities is turned into a Christmas paradise in the advent season, ideal for romantic strolls.
FreechoiceTake a guided tour of Koblenz, which straddles two of Europe’s most beautiful rivers. Six tranquil places in the old part of the city 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.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Day 5 - Heidelberg
FreechoiceUncover the fascinating history of Heidelberg, including a visit to its fine Renaissance castle. The castle ruins are among the most important Renaissance structures north of the Alps. Alternatively, enjoy an orientation tour of Heidelberg’s quaint old town, followed by time at leisure.
During your free time why not explore the city’s Christmas markets. Heidelberg’s Old Town radiates with Christmas spirit, walk past decorated wooden stalls, smell wafts of spice in the air from the warming glühwein and taste delicious delicacies such as traditional Gingerbread and the popular local treat of Germknödel – a spiced jam filled dumpling drizzled with a decadent vanilla sauce.
EnrichEnjoy a private evening concert at a fabulous Baroque Palace in the region. It’ll be an evening of grandeur unlike any other, and a chance to create memories that you’ll cherish for a lifetime.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Day 6 - Baden-Baden
Arrive in charming Baden-Baden, a popular spa town famous for its Roman baths.
FreechoiceJoin a guided tour of this picturesque town and learn of its rich heritage or take an active hike to Hohenbaden Castle for scenic views of the Black Forest. Alternatively, visit the Mercedes-Benz factory and learn about the fascinating history of this luxury brand.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Day 7 - Strasbourg
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 the stalls of Strasbourg’s Christkindelsmärik, one of the largest Christmas markets in Europe.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
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Day 8 - Basel > Zurich
After breakfast, transfer to the airport or train station for your return journey home. Travel to one of up to 16 UK airports.
Meals Included: Breakfast
Tour inclusions
- 5-star Scenic Space-Ships featuring Scenic Sun Lounges
- 1 exclusive Scenic Enrich experience
- Your choice of 11 Scenic Freechoice activities
- Up to five on board dining options, from casual to fine dining
- 20 meals – 7 breakfasts (B), 6 lunches (L) and 7 dinners (D)
- Complimentary beverages all day, every day
- Butler service for all guests
- Exclusive Scenic Tailormade available throughout your cruise
- The freedom of our e-bikes – electronically assisted bicycles
- Cruise Directors to guide and assist
- Expert local guides
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- All tipping and gratuities