2026 Christmas Markets on the Rhine
Dec 9, 2026 to Dec 16, 2026
Christmas Markets on the Rhine River Cruise
Vacation at a Glance
From December 9 - 16, 2026, experience the deep-rooted holiday traditions of Europe at its most festive time of year and get caught up in the magic of the holidays with visits to some of the world's most timeless Christmas Markets. Warm up with a mug of steamy glühwein while at the Cologne Christmas Market located in front of its UNESCO-designated Gothic cathedral. Let the "Capital of Noël," Strasbourg, the oldest and largest Christmas Market in France, captivate you the way it has for so many others for centuries. Meander through Heidelberg’s majestic Christmas Market nestled idyllically amongst the historic squares of the Old Town. And while in Gengenbach, marvel at the world’s largest Advent calendar, where every evening at 6:00 PM, the brightly lit windows of the neo-classical town hall open, and behind each one is a picture by a famous artist, such as Andy Warhol. Cherish all the glory of the season in grand European style as you cruise along the Rhine.
Meet Your Ship: AmaCerto
Like a fallen leaf floating atop the water, AmaCerto floats effortlessly down Europe’s most fascinating waterways. From the spacious and well-appointed staterooms, with their plush bedding and soft robes, to the classically elegant Main Lounge with its baby grand piano and bar, this haven on the river is filled with luxurious amenities. An onboard salon puts you center stage and ready for your close-up. On the Sun Deck, a heated pool features a swim-up bar with underwater bar stools, and a walking track provides the perfect venue for a romantic sunrise or sunset stroll. And from the kitchen, you’ll find fine dining to the extreme, with exquisite, regionally inspired cuisine prepared in both the Main Restaurant and at The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant, where views of the rippling river are just the amuse-bouche to every mouthwatering bite..
Itinerary
| Day | Port |
| Wednesday, December 9, 2026 | Basel, Switzerland |
| Thursday, December 10, 2026 | Breisach, Germany |
| Friday, December 11, 2026 | Strasbourg, France |
| Saturday, December 12, 2026 | Ludwigshafen, Germany - Rüdesheim, Germany |
| Sunday, December 13, 2026 | Rüdesheim - Rhine Gorge Scenic Cruising - Lahnstein, Germany |
| Monday, December 14, 2026 | Düsseldorf, Germany |
| Tuesday, December 15, 2026 | Amsterdam, Netherlands |
| Wednesday, December 16. 2026 | Amsterdam, Netherlands |
Ports of Call
BASEL, SWITZERLAND
You'll find over 180 stalls from local artisans and tasty treats in Basel's historic Old Town! Basel also has a musical Advent Calendar. These markets are walkable and spread throughout the town.
BREISACH, GERMANY
The Christmas Market is famous for Cuckoo Clock Carving and Black Forest Cake Baking demonstrations.
Breisach is home to the Black Forest and your gateway to several excursions. Journey into medieval Colmar, located in the enchanting Alsace region of France. Delight in the half-timbered houses lining the cobblestone streets as you take in the whimsical blend of French and German culture and the town’s wonderful Christmas Markets. Alternatively, you may wish to visit Freiburg, founded in 1120 and home to Freiburg’s Münster, a Gothic cathedral constructed of red sandstone, and its enchanting Christmas market. Those wishing a more active excursion will want to cycle through the scenic countryside.
STRASBOURG, FRANCE
From the fairy tale setting surrounding the Strasbourg Cathedral to the unique market stalls, food, and festive decor, Strasbourg is even more alluring during the season of Advent. The Christkindelsmärik dates back to 1570, making it the oldest Christmas market in France. Enjoy a panoramic bus tour that takes you past the Parc de l’Orangerie, the European Parliament, and the Place de la Republique. Afterward, walk through the historic town center on the Grande Île, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and through the lovely “La Petite France” district, where you will see the Cathédrale de Nôtre Dame with its famous astronomical clock and then visit the town’s famous Christmas market. You can also choose to explore Strasbourg’s different districts by bicycle. During the afternoon, visit Gengenbach Christmas market where, every year, the locals count down to Christmas with a 24-day, larger-than-life Advent calendar.
LUDWIGSHAFEN, GERMANY - RÜDESHEIM, GERMANY
You have a choice of several excursions, depending on your interest. Visit Heidelberg, a perfectly preserved medieval city nestled in the Neckar River Valley along Germany’s Castle Road, followed by a visit to the Christmas markets. For those seeking a more active adventure, hike the historic Philosopher’s Path or bike along the shores of the river Neckar, ultimately arriving in the medieval town of Ladenburg. Alternatively, you can discover the medieval past of Speyer and its charming Christmas markets. Later in the day, sail to the winemaking town of Rüdesheim, where you can taste the village’s sweet wine or its special delight, Rüdesheimer coffee, ceremoniously made with whipped cream and brandy.
RÜDESHEIM - RHINE GORGE SCENIC CRUISING - LANSTEIN, GERMANY
Visit Siegfried’s whimsical Mechanical Instrument Cabinet, take a guided bike tour through the town and along the Rhine River, hike through the vineyards or soar high above the town by gondola and later enjoy Christmas traditions from all over the world at Rüdesheim Christmas market. Later in the day, sit in the Main Lounge, out on your balcony or bundle up on the Sun Deck to enjoy a scenic cruise through the Rhine Gorge, during which you will see many historic castles. Upon reaching Lahnstein, take a unique tour of Lahneck Castle.
DÜSSELDORF, GERMANY
Enjoy a scenic cruise into Düsseldorf. In the afternoon, take a brief trip to the nearby city of Cologne on a guided tour of its enchanting Old Town, where you will see sites such as the Cologne Rathaus, Germany’s oldest town hall; the Fishmarkt, which dates back to the 12th century and the Great St. Martin Church. Then visit one of Europe’s largest and most renowned Christmas Markets. Or explore historic Düsseldorf on foot with a knowledgeable local tour guide. Then, be treated to a tasting of Altbier, a clean and crisp beer developed in Düsseldorf that is crafted using traditional brewing techniques. Conclude the tour with a visit to the local Christmas Market. Alternatively, cover more ground with an active bike tour of the city.
AMSTERDAM, NETHERLANDS
Cruise the iconic canals of Amsterdam, considered the “Venice of the North” and admire the historic architecture along the way. Alternatively, taste local specialties at one of Amsterdam’s grand cafés. Please note that an alternative tour will depend on the docking location.
Deck Plans & Room Options
All pricing is based on 2 people per room. If you would like to travel solo or with more than two in a room, please email your travel advisor or christy@hiddenadventuretravel.com for pricing info.
1 - Lower Sun Deck
2 - Navigation Bridge
3 - Bicycles
4 - Heated Pool
5 - Sun Deck
6 - Walking Track
7 - Al Fresco Dining Terrace
8 - Observation Lounge
9 - Main Lounge & Bar
10 - Gift Shop
11 - Reception
12 - Fitness Room
13 - Massage & Hair Salon
14 - The Chef's Table Restaurant
15 - Main Restaurant
16 - Elevator
17 - Crew Cabins
2 - Navigation Bridge
3 - Bicycles
4 - Heated Pool
5 - Sun Deck
6 - Walking Track
7 - Al Fresco Dining Terrace
8 - Observation Lounge
9 - Main Lounge & Bar
10 - Gift Shop
11 - Reception
12 - Fitness Room
13 - Massage & Hair Salon
14 - The Chef's Table Restaurant
15 - Main Restaurant
16 - Elevator
17 - Crew Cabins
Suite (SS)
Location: Violin Deck
Price: $8448 per person
Deposit: $400 per person
Final Payment Due: 8/27/2026
Twin Balconies (AA+) 
Location: Violin Deck
Price: $7748 per person
Deposit: $400 per person
Final Payment Due: 8/27/2026
Twin Balconies (AA) 
Location: Violin Deck
Price: $6148 per person
Deposit: $400 per person
Final Payment Due: 8/27/2026
Twin Balconies (AB) 
Location: Cello Deck
Price: $6948 per person
Deposit: $400 per person
Final Payment Due: 8/27/2026
Twin Balconies (BA) 
Location: Violin Deck
Price: $6748 per person
Deposit: $400 per person
Final Payment Due: 8/27/2026
Twin Balconies (BB) 
Location: Cello Deck
Price: $6548 per person
Deposit: $400 per person
Final Payment Due: 8/27/2026
French Balcony (C) 
Location: Violin & Cello Deck
Price: $5948 per person
Deposit: $400 per person
Final Payment Due: 8/27/2026
Fixed Windows (D) 
Location: Piano Deck
Price: $4748 per person
Deposit: $400 per person
Final Payment Due: 8/27/2026
Fixed Windows (E) 
Location: Piano Deck
Price: $4224 per person
Deposit: $400 per person
Final Payment Due: 8/27/2026
What's included
-
Spacious Staterooms:
- 7 nights luxury accommodation in an outside stateroom (most with twin balconies)
- Entertainment-On-Demand in all staterooms featuring FREE HIGH-SPEED INTERNET access, movies, a music library, and English language TV Stations
- Mini-fridge, desk, and sitting area
- Bottled water replenished daily
-
An Array of Amenities
- Wellness Activities with a dedicated Wellness Host leading various exercise classes as well as discussions on healthy eating and relaxation techniques, both on board and onshore
- Personalized service from a highly trained Cruise Manager during both cruise and land packages
- Internet and Wi-Fi access
- Sun Deck pool with swim-up bar and walking track
- Fitness Room, massage services, and hair salon
- Main Lounge with panoramic views and bar
- Daily entertainment including cultural performances
-
Award-Winning Dining
- All onboard dining in a variety of venues
- Regionally inspired cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients
- The Chef's Table Specialty Restaurant
- Welcome Cocktail, Welcome Dinner, La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs Dinner, Captain's Cocktail and Gala Dinner
- La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs exclusive dining experience
- Unlimited free wine, beer, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner
- Unlimited sparkling wine and fresh juice with breakfast
- Sip & Sail Cocktail Hour with complimentary wine, beer, spirits, and soft drinks
- Tapas, sandwiches, snacks, and refreshments served daily in the Main Lounge
-
A World of Exploration
- Immersive tours in every destination
- Gentle, regular, active, and late-riser tour options
- Bike tours and hikes
- Special interest tours
- Knowledgeable guides
- Personal headset for easy exploration
Additional Information:
All Payments are non-refundable.
The Final Payment Date cannot be extended.
Available Packages
Fixed Window (Piano Deck - E)
Unavailable as of
December 31, 2024
$4,224.00
Deposit: $400.00 per person
Fixed Window (Piano Deck - D)
Unavailable as of
December 31, 2024
$4,748.00
Deposit: $400.00 per person
French Balcony (Violin & Cello Deck - C)
Unavailable as of
December 31, 2024
$5,948.00
Deposit: $400.00 per person
Twin Balcony -French & Outside (Cello Deck - BB)
Unavailable as of
December 31, 2024
$6,548.00
Deposit: $400.00 per person
Twin Balcony -French & Outside (Violin Deck - BA)
Unavailable as of
December 31, 2024
$6,748.00
Deposit: $400.00 per person
Twin Balcony - French & Outside (Cello Deck - AB)
Unavailable as of
December 31, 2024
$6,948.00
Deposit: $400.00 per person
Twin Balcony - French & Outside (Violin Deck - AA)
Unavailable as of
December 31, 2024
$7,148.00
Deposit: $400.00 per person
Twin Balcony - French & Outside (Violin Deck - AA+)
Unavailable as of
December 31, 2024
$7,748.00
Deposit: $400.00 per person
Suite with Twin Balcony - French & Outside (Violin Deck - SS)
Unavailable as of
December 31, 2024
$8,448.00
Deposit: $400.00 per person
Extra Options
Pre-Cruise Land Package
Unavailable as of
December 31, 2024
$3,920.00
2 Nights Zurich & 2 Nights Lucerne
Stays at world-class 4- and 5-star hotels conveniently located near the major sites. Daily breakfast at the hotel.
Convenient transfers and portage service between your hotel and river cruise ship.
Services of one of the Extraordinary Cruise Managers throughout the journey.
Enriching city tours and excursions led by knowledgeable local guides.
This is for 2 people. If more than two are traveling, price will be adjusted.
Vacation Protection
Unavailable as of
December 31, 2024
$0.00
If you are interested in Vacation Protection, select this option and you will receive a call to discuss your options.
Pre-Cruise Flights and Hotel
Unavailable as of
December 31, 2024
$0.00
If you are interested in adding Pre-Cruise Flights, Hotel, and Transfers, select this option and you will receive a call to discuss your options.