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Christmas on the Rhine Cruise
6 Days Starting and ending in Cologne, Germany
Visiting: Cologne, Rüdesheim, Speyer, Strasbourg, Koblenz
Tour operator:
Tour code:
98489
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Celebrate Christmas along the Rhine, calling at pretty German riverside port cities, illuminated by glittering lights and decked with traditional decorations.
Step aboard a Premium All-Inclusive cruise for a magical five-night journey along one of Europe’s most enchanting rivers. Embrace a schedule of festive on-board activities, indulge in gourmet buffets, sip cocktails in cosy lounge bars, and escape the winter’s chill for treatments in the spa.
Travelling along a southern stretch of the Rhine, you’ll stop off in picturesque Rudesheim, spend a special Christmas Eve in the ancient city of Speyer, with its UNESCO-listed cathedral, and an unforgettable Christmas in Strasbourg, complete with a guided walking tour. Time will also be enjoyed in medieval Mainz and old-world Koblenz, where you’ll embark on an atmospheric evening walking tour. Finally, you’ll glide through the spectacular Loreley Valley before you return to the cathedral city of Cologne.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day One – Cologne, Germany
Location: Cologne
Accommodation Name: A-ROSA AQUA
You can start your journey by acquainting yourself with the cathedral city of Cologne, which boasts a multitude of remarkable structures, enticing attractions and festive Christmas markets before boarding A-ROSA AQUA. To fully immerse yourself, consider arriving a day ahead of your cruise, or perhaps extending your stay after the cruise concludes.
Day Two – Rüdesheim, Germany
Location: Rüdesheim
Accommodation Name: A-ROSA AQUA
Today, you'll find yourself in the heart of Rhine Romanticism, Rüdesheim, a source of inspiration for poets and musicians. Notably, Johannes Brahms composed his renowned third symphony in this enchanting town. From a cultural perspective, the Rheingau region's most celebrated destination abounds with treasures, from historic aristocratic estates to ancient forts.
Take to the winding lanes of the old town by foot, heading to one of Germany’s most well-known streets, Drosselgasse. This avenue is fringed by lively bars, wine taverns and cafés. Why not sample the coffee speciality, Rüdesheimer Kaffee, which was invented here? You’ll also have time to explore the Christmas markets before they close for Christmas.
Day Three – Germersheim, Germany (Speyer) And Included City Tour
Location: Speyer
Accommodation Name: A-ROSA AQUA
Christmas Eve will be celebrated in Germersheim, situated near the ancient city of Speyer, which boasts a history spanning over 2,000 years. Its crowning jewel is the magnificent cathedral, a showcase of High Romanesque architecture and one of Germany's most celebrated cathedrals, recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
You’ll also head off on an included guided tour, learning about the city’s historic and architectural treasures as you explore, as well as enter the cathedral to observe its striking interior.
Day Four – Strasbourg (Kehl), France, Germany
Location: Strasbourg
Accommodation Name: A-ROSA AQUA
Your cruise along the Rhine will bring you to the lively city of Strasbourg on Christmas day. This city enchants with its collection of medieval half-timbered houses and grand city palaces. A true standout is the Strasbourg Cathedral, offering a breathtaking vista from its observation deck, where the half-timbered houses resemble a model railway landscape. You can also cross Rhine Bridge, where you’ll be half in Germany (Kehl), and half in France (Strasbourg).
Embrace today in this French part of the Rhine, meandering around at your own pace and perhaps attending Christmas mass in the cathedral. This evening, you can enjoy some festive musical entertainment in the cruise lounge with a guest artist.
Day Five – Mainz And Koblenz, Germany And Included Evening Walking Tour Of Koblenz
Location: Koblenz
Accommodation Name: A-ROSA AQUA
The itinerary for Boxing Day features two beautiful stops. Your first call will be Mainz, a delightful city, home to half-timbered houses and sprawling medieval market squares. Experience the laid-back lifestyle of the residents as you stroll around one of Germany’s oldest cities, seeking out the Marktbrunnen, a striking Renaissance fountain, the Romanesque Mainz Cathedral and The Gutenberg Museum, which honours the inventor of the printing press.
In the afternoon, you’ll pass through the dramatic Loreley Valley before arriving at the next destination, Koblenz, another enthralling city with over 2,000 years of history. Venture along its labyrinth of cobbled streets, observing the stately town houses, castles and former historic courts along the way. From the A-ROSA AQUA ship, you can also see the famous Deutsches Eck, a promontory where the Mosel River joins the Rhine.
As you’ll be here after the sun has set, you’ll join an included evening walking tour through the old town. During this, you’ll pass the Kaiser Wilhelm Monument, the Schängelbrunnen and the Romanesque churches of St. Kastor and Liebfrauenkirche.
Day Six – Cologne, Germany
Location: Cologne
Accommodation Name: A-ROSA AQUA
As your cruise comes to an end in Cologne, consider making the most of your day before journeying home back to the UK.
What's Included
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Five nights' Premium All-Inclusive cruise accommodation
Enjoy five nights of premium all-inclusive cruise accommodation during your journey.
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14 meals
Savor 14 meals included in your cruise package.
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A guided tour of Speyer
Participate in a guided tour of the historic city of Speyer.
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An evening guided tour of Koblenz
Join an evening guided tour of the charming city of Koblenz.
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Return travel from the UK to Cologne
Return travel from the UK to Cologne is included unless you select the Tour Only option.
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Included coach transfers to the ship
Coach transfers to the ship are included unless you select the Tour Only option.
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Free Wi-Fi on board
Stay connected with free Wi-Fi available on board.
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On-board activities and entertainment
Enjoy a variety of on-board activities and entertainment throughout your cruise.
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Gourmet buffet dining with live cooking stations
Indulge in gourmet buffet dining with live cooking stations.
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Flexible mealtimes
Benefit from flexible mealtimes during your cruise.
What's Not Included
Tour Only option exclusionsReturn travel from the UK to Cologne and coach transfers to the ship are not included if you select the Tour Only option.
Itinerary changes
Unnavigable rivers
Water levels can fluctuate on Europe’s rivers which may result in low or high water conditions in specific destinations. Please be aware that the situation can evolve rapidly, and it is impossible to predict if a cruise will be affected more than a few days in advance. Rest assured water levels are monitored very closely and we will contact you immediately if we are advised that there is likely to be any impact to your upcoming cruise.
Disruption - Delays during your cruise
If progress along the river is disrupted, we will endeavour to keep your holiday going, however the Captain may need to alter the cruise itinerary. This could include remaining moored in the same place extra nights, postponing the departure to the next day or arranging excursions to the itinerary destinations or equivalent alternatives by coach. If this happens, the Cruise Manager will keep passengers informed.
Travelling to Europe
Rules may have changed since you last travelled to European Union countries as well as Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. The following are useful guidelines which will help you prepare for your next adventure. You do require government issued passport to travel.
Names - It is very important that all passenger names are exactly as per your passport although we do not require middle names.
Passport - Your passport must meet two requirements to travel to an EU country and to Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and Liechtenstein. It must be: Less than 10 years old on the day you return home (please check the "date of issue") and valid for at least 3 months after the day you return home (please check the "expiry date").
Visa - You do not need a visa for short trips to most EU countries, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland. You’ll be able to stay for up to 90 days in any rolling 180-day period.
European Travel Information & Authorisation System (ETIAS) - Due to commence in 2025, all citizens of the United Kingdom will require a ETIAS electronic form completed prior to their arrival into the EU and Schengen member countries. The cost for this travel authorisation will be €7.00 per person with exceptions for under 18’s and over 70’s. The latest information and further details can be found at www.etias.com.
Mode of Transport
The tour includes return travel from the UK to Cologne, with included coach transfers to the ship, unless you select the Tour Only option. Experience the convenience of a cruise along the Rhine, visiting multiple destinations with ease.
Accommodation
Enjoy five nights of premium all-inclusive cruise accommodation aboard the A-ROSA AQUA, featuring gourmet buffet dining, live cooking stations, and flexible mealtimes. Relax with free Wi-Fi, on-board activities, and entertainment, all while indulging in a free unlimited premium all-inclusive drinks package.
Special requirements
If you have notified us of any special requirements, please check that they have been noted and acknowledged. This is especially important with any dietary needs you may have.
Optional shore excursions
Optional excursions are available on all cruises. If the number of bookings needed to operate any excursion is not reached, the excursion may be cancelled.
Tipping
Tipping is not compulsory, but from experience we know that many passengers like to leave gratuities for the crew. At the end of the cruise you will find a tip box for the entire crew at the reception and the suggested amount is five Euros per guest per day. Of course, you are free to tip individual crew members at any time, should you wish.
Disabled guests and guests in need of assistance
All ships have stairs, are not equipped with lifts, and may not be suitable for passengers with restricted mobility. Wheelchairs cannot be used on board.
Dress code
The dress code on board and ashore is comfortable and casual; we recommend that you bring sturdy footwear for excursions. For the restaurant we recommend smart casual dress. Please remember to bring warmer clothes for evenings out on deck.
Wi-Fi
Wi-Fi is provided free of charge in accordance with A-ROSA's conditions of use. You can request a login and password from reception. Internet reception is limited and will vary from location to location.
Luggage
Where possible, we recommend non-rigid suitcases as these are easier to store within your cabin.
Pool
A heated pool can be found on the sun deck of the following ships: A-ROSA DONNA, FLORA, SILVA and STELLA.
Whirlpool
A heated Whirlpool can be found on the following ships: A-ROSA AQUA, and VIVA.
Cabin facilities
In your cabin you will find a safe installed in the wardrobe, a hairdryer, bathrobes and slippers, insect screens and pool towels. The power supply in your cabin is 220 V/50 Hz. All sockets are European two-pin, meaning you will need to bring an adapter.
Air-conditioning
All A-ROSA vessels are air-conditioned throughout, with individual climate control in each cabin.
Drinking water
The water on board is potable and bottled water is provided in your cabin.
Foreign Office travel advice
Visit www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice to find out the latest Foreign And Commonwealth Office travel advice for your holiday destination, as well as information about passports and visas.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of accommodation is provided during the Christmas on the Rhine Cruise?
The cruise offers five nights of Premium All-Inclusive cruise accommodation.
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Are meals included in the Christmas on the Rhine Cruise?
Yes, the cruise includes 14 meals, gourmet buffet dining with live cooking stations, flexible mealtimes, and afternoon tea with freshly prepared cakes and pastries.
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Is there a drinks package included in the cruise?
Yes, there is a FREE unlimited Premium All-Inclusive drinks package that includes water, soft drinks, speciality teas and coffees, beer, wine, spirits, and cocktails throughout the day and evening.
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What activities are available on board the cruise?
The cruise offers on-board activities and entertainment, as well as occasional regional treats and specialities to complement your destination that day.
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Is there Wi-Fi available on the cruise?
Yes, free Wi-Fi is available on board the cruise.
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What guided tours are included in the Christmas on the Rhine Cruise?
The cruise includes a guided tour of Speyer and an evening guided tour of Koblenz.
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What happens if there are disruptions during the cruise due to river conditions?
If progress along the river is disrupted, the Captain may need to alter the cruise itinerary, which could include remaining moored in the same place extra nights, postponing the departure to the next day, or arranging excursions to the itinerary destinations or equivalent alternatives by coach. The Cruise Manager will keep passengers informed.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1983
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Vaccination Requirements
Your health and safety are pivotal to our operations, and every customer travelling on a tour with us must be fully vaccinated against Covid-19. Fully vaccinated means that you have had the full course of an approved vaccine a minimum of 14 days prior to your holiday. We also recommend that you travel with proof that you’ve been fully vaccinated.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Our company’s mission is to enrich lives and improve wellbeing through travel. A big part of that is ‘Travel for Good’. Our ‘Travel for Good’ hub is our first step in a long journey to reduce carbon, offset anything we produce as a company and travel without harming the planet or the people of the destinations we go to.
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What policies are in place for Covid-19?
Please contact us for latest Covid-19 policies
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Fitness to Travel
We strive to give all our customers full care and attention, but we do need to know at the time of booking if there are any special needs or requirements. It is particularly important that we are advised of any disabilities and also if you intend to bring any specialist equipment such as a wheelchair with you. Please make sure that you make us aware of any requirements.
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Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Newmarket Holidays requires a minimum deposit of 35% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of newmarket holidays charges.
Up to 56 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 55 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 48 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 34 days before tour starts: Forfeit 90% of booking price.
At 15 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Vaccination Requirements
Your health and safety are pivotal to our operations, and every customer travelling on a tour with us must be fully vaccinated against Covid-19. Fully vaccinated means that you have had the full course of an approved vaccine a minimum of 14 days prior to your holiday. You can find the travel restrictions for different countries on www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice. We also recommend that you travel with proof that you’ve been fully vaccinated.
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