Christmas Markets on the Rhine

Pricing based on departure date: 16 December 2026

Cruise through the heart of Europe’s finest cities, many of which host large traditional Christmas markets. There’s nothing quite like taking a Rhine River cruise at Christmas time, as you’ll be able to take advantage of the hundreds of stalls all selling ideal Christmas presents for the folks back home.

The Emerald Cruises Difference

Experience an unforgettable voyage of discovery with shore excursions, EmeraldPLUS cultural experiences, and the EmeraldACTIVE program all included.

• 7 nights on board an Emerald Cruises Star-Ship
• The services of an Emerald Cruises cruise director
• All tipping and gratuities
• Guided tour of Strasbourg and Christmas market visit
• Cologne Christmas markets & beer experience
• Walking tour of Duesseldorf and Christmas market visit Canal cruise
• 20 delectable meals including 7 breakfasts (B), 6 lunches (L), 7 dinners (D)
• Complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks served with lunch and dinner on board
• Airport transfers to and from your Star-Ship
• Port taxes and charges
• Guided tour of Breisach and Christmas market visit
• Guided tour of Heidelberg and Christmas market visit
• Orientation walk of Koblenz and Christmas market visit
• Guided visit to the Christmas market at Ravenna Viaduct
• Including a Welcome and Farewell Reception & Dinner

Itinerary Map

Itinerary Highlights

Breisach, Germany
Discover the charming Rhine town of Breisach, gateway to Germany’s Black Forest. Journey through the scenic Black Forest Highlands to the magical Christmas Market beneath the 40-metre-high Ravenna Viaduct, filled with regional specialties and handcrafted gifts.

Strasbourg, France
Explore Strasbourg’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed Grande Île, where medieval half-timbered houses, historic canals and Baroque architecture create a storybook setting. Wander the city’s enchanting Christmas markets and sample traditional Alsatian festive treats.

Heidelberg, Germany
Step into the romance of Heidelberg with a guided visit to the ruins of Heidelberg Castle overlooking the city’s red-roofed skyline. Stroll the cobbled Old Town past the Church of the Holy Spirit and Germany’s oldest university.

Koblenz, Germany
Discover historic Koblenz, a picturesque city surrounded by vineyards and mountain scenery. Wander through atmospheric cobbled squares and narrow streets as you uncover this enchanting corner of the Rhine.

Cologne & Düsseldorf, Germany
See Cologne’s magnificent UNESCO World Heritage-listed cathedral before embracing the festive spirit at the city’s Christmas markets. Continue to Düsseldorf to explore its distinctive markets, from the Fairytale Market to the traditional Handwerker Market.

Amsterdam, Netherlands
Cruise Amsterdam’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed canals aboard a glass-top boat, passing historic merchant houses from the Dutch Golden Age. Afterwards, soak up the festive atmosphere among Christmas stalls, seasonal treats and warming mulled wine.

Your ship: Emerald Star

Emerald Star offers a stylish and contemporary way to explore Europe’s waterways, combining panoramic river views, modern accommodation and inviting spaces designed for relaxing between each day’s adventures.

Pool & Cinema
Unwind in the heated indoor pool with its retractable roof and beautiful river views. In the evening, this innovative space transforms into a cinema, creating a unique onboard experience.

Dining & Onboard Experience
Enjoy delicious meals in the elegant Reflections Restaurant, with opportunities for al fresco dining on The Terrace. Relax with a drink in the Horizon Bar & Lounge while watching the ever-changing scenery through panoramic windows.

Sun Deck & Relaxation
Take in sweeping views from the spacious Sun Deck, with plenty of room to relax as you sail through Europe. Enjoy a game on the putting green or giant chess board, or keep active in the onboard fitness area.

Zurich, Breisach, Kehl, Mannheim (Heidelberg), Koblenz, Cologne, Amsterdam, Amsterdam.

All fares are displayed in AUD, and pricing is per person based on twin share occupancy unless stated otherwise. Although all due care is taken to keep information as up-to-date as possible, pricing and availability are subject to change without notice: due to varying timing schedules of supplier automated update processes; currency fluctuations; fuel surcharges or government tax & fee changes and may not be guaranteed until paid in full. Gratuities may be an additional onboard charge depending on particular cruise line selected. Please ask your cruise consultant for any clarification of Terms & Conditions.