After we begin our journey on the ship, we will see a delightful blend of old and new in Basel, known to be Switzerland’s best-kept secret. During the holiday season, the medieval Old Town is transformed into a magical Yuletide affair. Cobblestone streets are lined with wooden chalet-style huts selling festive treats and gifts. Visitors to the Christmas market can enjoy a warming cup of aromatic glühwein in a decorated boot-shaped mug. Hand-carved tree decorations, cheerfully painted ceramics, and delicious food are sold from stalls throughout the city.

In the heart of Breisach’s old town with a backdrop of the Romanesque-Gothic St. Stephen’s Cathedral, the Weinachtsmarkt is a highlight of the season. Continue to enjoy glühwein, alongside tasty Christmastime treats, keeping visitors warm as they browse market stalls for gifts and handicrafts. The nearby Black Forest provides a fairy-tale atmosphere; its towering, snow-covered spruce trees resemble a winter wonderland.

Mannheim’s Christmas market is a holiday season shopping extravaganza, centered around the city’s iconic water tower. One of Germany’s oldest and largest markets, more than 160 booths host vendors from around the world, offering handicrafts and handmade items. Beautiful glassware and carved wooden toys and games, sit alongside Christmas lanterns, colorful baubles and ornaments, all of which are presented in quaint wooden houses. Luxurious cashmere scarves, sheepskin mittens and felt hats are the ideal purchase to take home as gifts for friends and family.

Located in the picturesque Rhine Valley, Rüdesheim is brimming with festive cheer. The vibrant Drosselgasse, a narrow alleyway lined with decorated restaurants and bars, is the perfect place to explore and immerse in the spirit of the holiday season. Traditional Rhineland music provides the backdrop to a tankard of Christmas beer. Market stalls offer an array of tasty morsels from various nations, and local artisans demonstrate their talents with displays of unique, handcrafted gifts.

Themed winter markets are featured across Cologne during the holiday season, inviting visitors to browse colorful market stalls for handmade gifts, beautiful artwork, and colorful crafts. The towering Gothic Cologne Cathedral provides a stunning backdrop to the city’s festivities and array of offerings from its red wooden stalls. Beneath the pointed roofs of Cologne harbor’s tented market, unique crafted goods are displayed amid the twinkling lights of boats bobbing in the marina.

Bid farewell to your fellow guests and journey home. Or spend more time exploring, perhaps joining one of our extensions.