- Luxury tour company Abercrombie & Kent is launching a new holiday river cruise, “Christmas Markets on the Rhine.”
- The trip takes in storybook villages from France and Germany, which offer a multitude of festive customs.
- This is a 24-person vehicle. Amadeus Star Eight destinations are visited over eight days beginning in early December.
While the holidays might seem far away, it’s never too early to plan a yuletide escape—yes, even before the start of summer. This holiday season, Abercrombie & Kent invites travelers on a luxurious journey through the heart of Europe with its “Christmas Markets on the Rhine” cruise.
Passengers sail the Rhine River for eight days of festive fun, stopping at storybook towns that are ablaze with twinkling lights. From charming market stalls This itinerary is the perfect way to discover Europe’s favorite Christmas traditions.
In Strasbourg, France (also known as “Capital of Christmas”), guests can explore one of Europe’s most famous and oldest Christmas markets set against the backdrop of timber-framed homes. Strasbourg’s Cave des Hospices hosts the city’s oldest cellar where visitors can taste local wines and learn more about the area’s winemaking tradition.
The cruise then heads to the legendary Black Forest in Germany. The market is bursting with traditional nutcrackers and handcrafted ornaments. There are also stalls selling bratwursts, roasted chestnuts and spiced cups of tea. glühwein (mulled wine). The route takes you through several picturesque villages. Alsace wine region.
Heidelberg, Germany is a magical holiday destination, with guests transported into a romantic fairytale setting nestled under the romantic ruin of the historic castle. The activities are a cocktail reception, a gourmet chef’s table dinner and plenty of time for the holiday markets.
In Rüdesheim, travelers can explore the famed Drosselgasse, a picturesque street lined with charming shops, and take a guided walking tour of the medieval town of Koblenz. The Captain’s Gala Dinner is a celebration on board, with fine food and Rhine River views.
Bonn is next on the itinerary, where Ludwig van Beethoven was born. Visit the Beethoven-Haus Museum to learn more about the life and legacy this legendary composer.
The cruise ends in Cologne. This is home to some of Germany’s best-loved Christmas markets and one of Germany’s most impressive cathedrals. After exploring the Cologne Cathedral and its festive stalls, guests are invited to try some of the local delicacies. lebkuchen—the spiced gingerbread holiday favorite.
The exciting eight-day cruise, which starts at $7,995 for each person, is available from December 1 to 8 and includes one night of hotel accommodation before and after. Guests will cruise aboard the luxurious, modern Amadeus StarYou can enjoy the luxury of hotel comforts, gourmet meals, and private, small-group excursions, all led by an experienced tour director.
Visit the website to learn more. abercrombiekent.com.
