Cruise · APT · 7 nights

Enchanting Rhine Christmas Markets

Explore the region's winemaking tradition with a local wine tour
Enjoy a guided tour of the iconic Cologne Cathedral
Glide over the Rhine Valley in a gondola, taking in stunning vistas

From

$6,645 pp twin share

$11,645 pp solo share

7 nights

Enquire

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Enchanting Rhine Christmas Markets

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Cruise Snapshot

7 Nights

Sail the enchanting Rhine River and experience the magic of Christmas markets in destinations like Strasbourg and Cologne

Stroll through atmospheric Christmas markets, admiring hand-crafted ornaments and savouring seasonal treats
Discover charming towns like Colmar and the snow-dusted landscapes of the Black Forest
Attend a cocktail party at the royal Namedy Castle, set near the Rhine River

Trip Details

Departs: 25 November 2028
Returns: 30 December 2028
Embarks
Operator: APT

Sail from Basel to Amsterdam along the Rhine River and experience the enchanting traditions of Christmas in destinations including Strasbourg and Cologne. Stroll through atmospheric Christmas markets, admiring hand-crafted ornaments while sipping a warm, spicy glühwein or savouring lebkuchen, the quintessential German Christmas cookie.

$6,645

pp twin share

$11,645

pp solo share

Enquire

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When & how much

Departures & Pricing

Departs

25 November 2028

Returns

30 December 2028

Duration

7 nights

From pp twin share

$6,645 pp

From pp solo cabin

$11,645 pp

25 Nov 2028 - 02 Dec 2028
from $6,645 pp twin share / $11,645 pp solo *
09 Dec 2028 - 16 Dec 2028
from $6,945 pp twin share / $12,145 pp solo *
23 Dec 2028 - 30 Dec 2028
from $6,645 pp twin share / $11,645 pp solo *

* Prices and category availability are subject to change without notice.

Upgrades, transfers, accommodation and more can be quoted on enquiry — call 1300 414 198.

Day by day

Itinerary

1
Arrive Basel, Embark Ship
Welcome to Basel. We’ll meet you on arrival and transfer you to your ship. Settle into your suite before getting to know your fellow travellers and APT Cruise Director at a welcome reception. After your first dinner on board, you may like to explore the city at your own pace.
2
Breisach
Arrive in Breisach today and discover the region on your preferred activity.
Freedom of Choice – Local Wine Tour
Journey through a landscape of terraced vineyards and charming wine villages while gaining insight into a winemaking tradition that has shaped the region's identity for generations.
Freedom of Choice – Colmar Guided Tour
Discover the charm of Colmar, one of Alsace’s most picturesque towns, known for its colourful half-timbered houses, canals and rich cultural heritage. Enjoy a guided tour before time at leisure to explore the town’s enchanting Christmas markets, where festive lights, local traditions and seasonal treats create a truly magical atmosphere.
Freedom of Choice – Black Forest
Journey into the snow-dusted landscapes of the Black Forest, where picturesque villages, centuries-old traditions and the artistry of cuckoo clock making offer a fascinating glimpse into local life.
3
Strasbourg
Embark on a guided walking tour of Strasbourg, discovering the city's charming medieval historic quarter, filled with cobbled streets, picturesque squares and enchanting canals. During the tour, experience the region's rich culinary heritage with a tasting of traditional Alsatian cheeses and freshly made macarons, showcasing the flavours of Strasbourg, located in the northeast of France, near the border with Germany.
This afternoon, embrace the festive spirit of Strasbourg as you wander through the atmospheric lanes of the renowned Christkindelsmärik. Dating back more than four centuries, Strasbourg's celebrated Christmas market transforms the city's historic heart into a captivating winter wonderland, where festive lights strewn between the city's famous half-timbered buildings create an unforgettable ambience. Take time to soak up the enchanting atmosphere and discover why Strasbourg is known as the 'Capital of Christmas'.
4
Rüdesheim
Explore one of Germany’s most revered cultural and historic cities with your chosen activity.
Freedom of Choice – Gondola Ride
Glide over the emerald vineyards of the Rhine Valley in a gondola, enjoying stunning vistas. At the top, arrive at the Niederwald Monument, commemorating the unification of Germany in 1871.
Freedom of Choice – Siegfried's Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum
Take a tour of Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum. This eccentric and unique museum is home to a beautiful collection of fascinating automated musical instruments from all stages of history.
Freedom of Choice – Visit a Historic Wine Cellar
Visit a historic wine cellar for a tasting of Rhine Valley wines. Discover why this location is one of Germany’s most well-known wine regions.
5
Andernach
Today you’ll approach what is known as the most beautiful stretch of the Rhine River. Glide past crumbling ruins that cling to rocky cliffs and rolling hillsides marked with perfectly planted vineyards. Disembark in Andernach, where an exclusive Signature Experience awaits.
Signature Experience – Namedy Castle
Princess Heide von Hohenzollern graciously welcomes APT guests into her home, Namedy Castle, a royal escape set near the Rhine River in Germany. After wandering through the castle and its manicured gardens, you’ll attend a cocktail party, where a pianist sets the mood.
6
Cologne
Discover the rich history and charm of Cologne on a guided walking tour. A highlight of the tour is a visit to Cologne Cathedral. This gothic masterpiece overlooking the Rhine took over seven centuries to complete and is considered one of finest Catholic cathedrals in the world. The cathedral’s iconic twin spires rise high above the city, greeting visitors from a distance as they sail into Cologne. It is Germany's most visited landmark and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure. Wander through Cologne's enchanting Christmas Markets, ideally located along the riverfront, where festive lights, hand-crafted decorations, and the distinctive aroma of cinnamon, cloves, orange peel, and other Christmas spices fill the air. Sip hot glühwein, savour lebkuchen cookies, and revel in the rich traditions of German Christmas.
7
Amsterdam
Arrive in Amsterdam and set out on your chosen activity. This evening, savour fresh, locally sourced oysters with regional sparkling wine.
Freedom of Choice – Glass-Top Boat Canal Cruise
A peaceful way to see the best of Amsterdam, board a glass-top boat and admire the city’s unique architecture as you cruise the maze of World Heritage-listed canals for which the city is famous.
Freedom of Choice – Culinary Discovery
Discover the culinary favourites of The Netherlands. See and taste a variety of Dutch delicacies as you visit local producers.
8
Disembark Ship, Depart Amsterdam
Your spectacular journey comes to an end today. Following breakfast, say goodbye and be transferred to the airport.

What you get for the price

Inclusions & exclusions

What’s included

Namedy Castle.
Day 1 highlights Arrive Basel, Embark Ship:
Welcome to Basel. We’ll meet you on arrival and transfer you to your ship. Settle into your suite before getting to know your fellow travellers and APT Cruise Director at a welcome reception. After your first dinner on board, you may like to explore the city at your own pace.
.
Day 2 highlights Breisach:
Arrive in Breisach today and discover the region on your preferred activity.
Freedom of Choice – Local Wine Tour
Journey through a landscape of terraced vineyards and charming wine villages while gaining insight into a winemaking tradition that has shaped the region's identity for generations.
Freedom of Choice – Colmar Guided Tour
Discover the charm of Colmar, one of Alsace’s most picturesque towns, known for its colourful half-timbered houses, canals and rich cultural heritage. Enjoy a guided tour before time at leisure to explore the town’s enchanting Christmas markets, where festive lights, local traditions and seasonal treats create a truly magical atmosphere.
Freedom of Choice – Black Forest
Journey into the snow-dusted landscapes of the Black Forest, where picturesque villages, centuries-old traditions and the artistry of cuckoo clock making offer a fascinating glimpse into local life.
.