Cologne to Cologne
4 night Rhine Christmas Markets South Cruise

 

There's only one remedy for the stressful lead-up to Christmas: to head for the river. The Rhine has seen so many Christmases that nothing can disrupt its tranquillity. At its own leisurely pace, it will carry you past castles, palaces and abbeys to old cities that have spruced themselves up for the Christmas season. Take your time as you browse for presents and get yourself in the Christmas mood with baked apples, punch and seasonal brass music. And there?s one more Christmas miracle to amaze you: Strasbourg Cathedral.

DAY 1:  Arrive Cologne and transfer to ship

Transfer from the Cologne train station to the ship.   The A-Rosa ship will depart Cologne at 4pm and you can enjoy your first dinner on board as the ship heads south along the Rhine.

DAY 2: Cruise to Mannheim

This morning your cruise takes you south through the picturesque winter landscapes of Germany. The ship will make a stop at Mannheim home to one of the largest and most beautiful Christmas markets in southwest Germany. Located in the centre of the city the market boasts over 200 stalls surrounded by an expansive Art Nouveau garden. Additionally, just500 meters away, there is a 2nd Christmas Market featuring over 70 artisans and food stalls. From here you may also join an optional excursion to Heidelberg.

DAY 3: Cruise to Kehl ( dock across the river from Strasbourg) 

The ship will dock in Kehl this morning and you have the whole day to explore the unique capital of Alsace. The morning's city tour will introduce you to the city which so wonderfully combines the cultures of France and Germany. Strasbourg's Cathedral is one of the most beautiful buildings in eastern France, whilst the Old Town – known as 'Petit France', is a true gem. During the Advent period, Strasbourg takes on an even more special charm, with its multitude of Christmas stalls selling hand-crafted gifts and tasty festive delicacies. From Strasbourg, you may also take a memorable afternoon excursion through the scenic Black Forest to Baden Baden.

DAY 4: Cruise to Mainz 

At lunchtime, the ship docks at Mainz, one of Germany's most historic cities. Today's walking tour of the city will introduce you to some of the highlights such as St Stephen's Church, with its windows by Chagall, St Martin's Cathedral (featuring one of the richest interiors in the Christian World) and the university, originally built as a Jesuit college between 1615 and 1618. Another important building is the Kurfurstliche Schloss (Electorial Palace). This is a aptime example of the German Renaissance style of architecture. Mainz's historic market square is also home to the Advent market, a beautiful spectacle of twinkling lights. The air is scented with a distinctive aroma of Christmas - an enchanting cocktail the essences of roast almonds, gingerbread, hot chestnuts and mulled wine.

DAY 5: Ship arrives in Cologne 

Your festive cruise comes to an end this morning as you disembark in Cologne after breakfast.

 

 

Cologne to Cologne

Day Port Arr Dep Comments
1 Cologne (Germany)   4:00pm Embarkation 2:00pm
2 Mannheim (Germany) 4:00pm 8:00pm  
3 Strasbourg (France)   10:30am 11:00pm Free time to explore Strasbourg   
Mainz (Germany) 12:00pm 7:00pm  
5 Cologne (Germany) 06:00am   Disembarkation 10:00

- subject to changes -

**Please note that this is a bi-lingual ship with information provided in both English and German,
and an international cruise host on board.**

2021 Per Person Cruise Only Fares
  

Departure Ship Cat (S) Deck 1
Back Deck
Cat (A)
Deck 1
Cat (C) Deck 2 French Doors Cat (D) Deck 3 French Doors
24-Nov-2021 Aqua $649 $805 $935 $1000
28-Nov-2021 Aqua $714 $857 $1000 $1078
02-Dec-2021 Aqua $714 $857 $1000 $1078
06-Dec-2021 Aqua $714 $857 $1000 $1078
10-Dec-2021 Aqua $714 $857 $1000 $1078
14-Dec-2021 Aqua $649 $805 $935 $1000
18-Dec-2021 Aqua $649 $805 $935 $1000

 

 

REGULAR Rate includes: cruise and port taxes, listed INCLUDED excursions, GRATUITIES and a beverage package - Soft Drinks, as well as tea and coffee specialties, Beer, sparkling white wine, Cremant and Prosecco (in a glass), as well as open wines and daily recommendations from the wine menu (by the glass), Cocktails and long drinks throughout the day and evening.

Sightseeing excursions are not included and can be booked onbaord.

 

3 Deck  
Deck 3
Cabins are Cat D with
French Doors

Deck 2
Cabins are Cat C with 
French doors

Deck 1
4 back cabins 
are Cat S
Other cabins are Cat A