4Nights

Rhine Christmas Markets 2025

Die Alte Oper in Frankfurt bei Nacht und mit einem weihnachtlich beleuchteten Brunnen im Vordergrund. Es rieselt Schnee
Two people are relaxing on the deck chairs in the relaxation area of SPA-ROSA, in front of them floor-to-ceiling windows with a view of the river.
View of the illuminated Mainz Cathedral at night, with the tip of a Christmas pyramid in front. In the foreground, bare trees adorned with string lights.

Highlights of the River Cruise on the Rhine

A cruise that’s as festive as any sleigh ride.

From Cologne to Rüdesheim, Mainz, Frankfurt, Loreley Valley and Koblenz to Cologne.

Magical Christmas markets huddle together in narrow timber-framed streets. Rüdesheim is in the Christmas mood. Celebrate with a glass of punch! Or perhaps with one of the world-famous local wines? Frankfurt’s towering Christmas tree proves that the city is as good at Christmas as it is at finance. One of Germany’s prettiest Christmas markets takes place every winter between the old Römerberg area and the historical St. Paul’s Church. The market and the rest of the city are overflowing with Christmas gift ideas for loved ones. And for yourself. Mainz’s Nikolose Market has a history stretching back more than 200 years. Today you can enjoy a mulled wine and Christmas baking in the market square in front of the mighty cathedral. As you do so, admire the lights twinkling around the colourful Renaissance façades of the historical buildings surrounding the market. The panorama of the Middle Rhine Valley – which, with its enchanting valleys and mountains dotted with knight’s castles, itself calls for a celebration – will accompany you onwards to Koblenz. Wrap up with a scarf and hat, and head out onto the ice! Experience the aroma of sugared almonds as you skate around the romantic rink in this old Roman city, with Christmas music accompanying the clip-clop of picturesque horse-drawn carriages. More Christmassy even than in Santa's grotto.

Mother and child are looking at a shop window with a Santa Claus figure together, the child is holding a lollipop and the mother a piece of pastry.

Rüdesheim

During your Christmas cruise you will visit the center of Rhine Romanticism, which once inspired poets and musicians. For example, Brahms composed his 3rd symphony in Rüdesheim. From a cultural point of view, the most famous place in the Rheingau has a lot to offer, including historic aristocratic estates and fortifications. And of course, the coffee speciality "Rüdesheimer Kaffee", invented here, should not be missed on this day on the Rhine.

Christmas tree with many lights next to an illuminated historic building at Römerberg in Frankfurt at night.

Frankfurt

Frankfurt proves that it can do Christmas as well as business with its tall Christmas tree. Between Römerberg and the historic Paulskirche down to the banks of the Main, one of the most beautiful and oldest Christmas markets in Germany takes place every winter. Market and metropolis offer on this Rhine cruise plenty of material for the gift shopping. Regional products such as Bethmännchen, a marzipan pastry with almonds, or hot apple wine are particularly popular.

Christmas market in Koblenz at night with a colorfully illuminated historic building, decorated Christmas trees, and a lit fountain with figures

Koblenz

Discover Koblenz during your Rhine cruise. Its history dates back over 2,000 years, making it one of Germany’s oldest cities – and one of its most picturesque, with a wealth of sights and cultural attractions. Marvel at Koblenz’s palaces, stately homes, grand townhouses, narrow lanes and romantic corners. And watch as our A-ROSA ship sails close to the famous Deutsches Eck headland.

Itinerary

Route map Rhine Christmas Markets with the ports Cologne, Koblenz, Rüdesheim, Mainz, and Frankfurt am Main.
Route map Rhine Christmas Markets with the ports Cologne, Koblenz, Rüdesheim, Mainz, and Frankfurt am Main.

Here we embark on a festive cruise on the Rhine. Make sure to explore Cologne itself, with its many imposing buildings and attractions. Enjoy the typical ‘Weckmänner’, a traditional yeast pastry, and some hot punch at the Christmas market right by the cathedral. 

A woman in winter clothing with a hat walks through a Christmas market in Cologne, surrounded by people and festively decorated stalls with lights.

Rüdesheim

Arr 10:00 am Dep 04:00 pm

Spend the time before Christmas in the heart of Rhine Romanticism, which once inspired poets and musicians. Brahms composed his 3rd symphony in Rüdesheim. You may even hear a Christmas song echoing through the many alleyways... and of course the coffee speciality ‘Rüdesheimer Kaffee’, which was invented here, is a must-try during your stay.

Mother and child are looking at a shop window with a Santa Claus figure together, the child is holding a lollipop and the mother a piece of pastry.

Trips

Just before Christmas, the city of Rüdesheim glitters in matchless splendour. Come with us and stroll along the atmospheric Christmas market to the largest nativity scene in Germany and try the local mulled wine. During the guided tour, you will also experience the marketplace, the Oberstraße, the world-famous Drosselgasse and the Rhine promenade. And if you do not want to return to your A-ROSA cruise ship just yet, you can simply stay in the old town and enjoy the peaceful bustle.

price:

€ 29.00 per person

duration:

approx. 2 Hours

transport:

walking

level:

Moderate

Christmas market stall with several gingerbread hearts in the foreground

Mainz

Arr 07:00 pm Dep 11:59 pm

Mainz is not only one of the oldest cities in Germany dating back 2000 years, but also a place where history comes alive at every corner. Local traditions are especially celebrated during the holiday season! Why not visit the historic Christmas market on the cathedral square? The illuminated and decorated Mainz Cathedral will certainly leave you enchanted. 

View of the illuminated Mainz Cathedral at night, with the tip of a Christmas pyramid in front. In the foreground, bare trees adorned with string lights.

Trips

Walk along the Rhine into the picturesque old town of Mainz with its half-timbered houses. Visit the outstanding Mainz Cathedral St. Martin, the Gutenberg Museum or the Heunensäule. Mainz has a lot to offer in terms of historical buildings and monuments, which you can discover on a walk with your private English-speaking guide.

price:

€ 289.00 per Reservation for max. 4 people

duration:

approx. 3 Hours

transport:

Private tour guide

level:

Moderate

Hint:

This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

The Mainz Cathedral with its distinctive red towers and spires, surrounded by green trees under a blue sky

Mainz is famous for Fastnacht, the city's fifth season. The Mainz tradition is reflected in the city, for example in the Fastnachtsmuseum and the Fastnachtsbrunnen. In addition to this tradition, Mainz has a beautiful old town with historical monuments and buildings to offer. Whether it's a visit to a museum or a tour of Mainz's old town, we'll take you comfortably wherever you want to go.

price:

€ 629.00 per Reservation for max. 4 people

duration:

approx. 3 Hours

transport:

Private Minivan

level:

Easy

Hint:

This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

Blick auf die Mainzer Altstadt mit dem Dom und historischen Türmen bei Abendlicht, reflektiert im Rhein

Come with us to the city where book printing was revolutionised in the 15th century! Whether a visit to the Gutenberg Museum, a stroll through the old town or a short shopping tour. Your private driver will take you comfortably from A to B.

price:

€ 599.00 per Reservation for max. 2 people

duration:

approx. 3 Hours

transport:

Private car

level:

Easy

Hint:

This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

A couple looks from the sun deck of a river cruise ship at the Rhine in the sunshine. The woman shields her eyes with her hand to look into the distance.

Mainz is not only known for its 1000-year-old history. Culinary delights also play a major role in Mainz. Mainz is surrounded by Germany's largest wine-growing region 'Rheinhessen'. On this tour you will discover the heart of Mainz's old town and have the chance to try regional wines during a wine tasting.

price:

€ 39.00 per person

duration:

approx. 2 Hours

transport:

walking

level:

Moderate

Zwei Weingläser mit Weißwein auf einem Tablett, im Hintergrund ein Fluss

Ho ho ho, it's Christmastime: Frankfurt has a lot to offer in winter, whether it's trying delicious food at the Christmas market, marveling at the view from one of the many skyscrapers or exploring Roman history in the old town.

Christmas market in Frankfurt at night with the Fountain of Justice in the foreground. Festively lit stalls and many people, surrounded by historic buildings under a clear dark sky.

Trips

Frankfurt am Main is known as a financial and banking metropolis. The Frankfurt skyline is graced by skyscrapers, but Frankfurt has much more to offer. Explore the old town with your English-speaking tour guide, past the Römer and the Paulskirche. Or stroll along the Museum Riverbank and discover Frankfurt's museums. You determine the programme and we implement it for you!

price:

€ 329.00 per Reservation for max. 4 people

duration:

approx. 3 Hours

transport:

walking

level:

Moderate

Hint:

This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

Statue of Justitia on a fountain in Frankfurts historic city centre under a cloudy sky. Flowers adorn the fountain. Historical buildings and parasols in the background.

Let the skyline of Frankfurt with its skyscrapers pass by and experience the financial and banking metropolis. Enjoy a fantastic view over Frankfurt from the approx. 200 metre high Main Tower or discover the old town. We will take you to the highlights of the city in a relaxed atmosphere and according to your wishes!

price:

€ 459.00 per Reservation for max. 4 people

duration:

approx. 3 Hours

transport:

Private Minivan

level:

Easy

Hint:

This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

Sonnenuntergang über der Frankfurter Skyline mit Hochhäusern, Brücke und Menschen, die am Flussufer spazieren und joggen

Known as a financial and banking metropolis, with a beautiful old town and the old opera house, Frankfurt has more to offer than skyscrapers. Explore the centre of Frankfurt at the Römer and the Paulskirche or drive to Alt-Sachsenhausen, where apple wine and historic half-timbered houses await you. Get to know the city in cosy togetherness!

price:

€ 429.00 per Reservation for max. 2 people

duration:

approx. 3 Hours

transport:

Private car

level:

Easy

Hint:

This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

Frankfurt skyline at sunset, with skyscrapers and the Main River in the foreground with ships and a bridge.

Let the Frankfurt skyline pass by without much effort and marvel at the mighty bank skyscrapers and the quaint old town. Enjoy a relaxed rickshaw ride past Frankfurt's sights and learn interesting facts about the old opera house, St. Paul's Church and life in Frankfurt am Main.

price:

€ 259.00 per Reservation for max. 2 people

duration:

approx. 2 Hours

transport:

Rickshaw and walking

level:

Easy

Hint:

No rain protection. This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

Zwei Personen lassen sich auf einer Rikscha durch eine belebte Stadtstraße fahren und schauen auf ihr Handy.

With its modern skyline, handsome old town and traditional apple wine, Frankfurt doesn’t fit into any one category. And that’s a good thing, since this city’s contrasts are what makes it so interesting. This combined bus and walking tour will take you along modern boulevards, past imposing skyscrapers, into the quaint Sachsenhausen neighbourhood with its apple wine taverns, and to the historic Römerberg market square. The square is named after the Römer building complex, which has served as Frankfurt’s city hall since the 15th century. Other impressive sights include the baroque Hauptwache building, the splendid Alte Oper concert hall and the round, neoclassical Saint Paul’s Church, which forms part of the backdrop to Frankfurt’s largest Christmas market every year.

price:

€ 49.00 per person

duration:

approx. 3 Hours

transport:

Bus and walking

level:

Easy

Christmas tree with many lights next to an illuminated historic building at Römerberg in Frankfurt at night.

Frankfurt

Dep 02:00 am

Leaving behind the Frankfurt skyline, we continue our festive cruise towards Koblenz.

Die Alte Oper in Frankfurt bei Nacht und mit einem weihnachtlich beleuchteten Brunnen im Vordergrund. Es rieselt Schnee

Loreley Valley

Arr 10:00 am

Steep cliffs and wintry forests stretch along the Loreley Passage, while the river quietly flows by. Legend has it that the Loreley, a beautiful nymph, once sat on the cliffside and lured sailors to their demise with her song - a myth that still captures the imagination of visitors today.

Winterliche Landschaft mit der Loreley am Rhein, schneebedeckte Hügel und der Fluss im Vordergrund unter einem klaren blauen Himmel.

Koblenz

Arr 03:00 pm Dep 09:30 pm

Enjoy the time beforeChristmas in Koblenz whilst admiring the city's sights. Back on board, the next culinary highlights are already waiting for you. What a treat!

Christmas market in Koblenz at night with a colorfully illuminated historic building, decorated Christmas trees, and a lit fountain with figures

Trips

Stroll along Koblenz's kilometre-long riverside promenade and discover the city's landmark, the Deutsches Eck with Kaiser Wilhelm I. There you can also see the beautiful confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers and not far from the Deutsches Eck, the cable car takes you to Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. Discover the beautiful corners of Koblenz together with your private English-speaking guide!

price:

€ 329.00 per Reservation for max. 4 people

duration:

approx. 3 Hours

transport:

walking

level:

Moderate

Hint:

This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

Luftaufnahme der Festung Ehrenbreitstein mit Blick auf den Zusammenfluss von Rhein und Mosel in Koblenz bei Sonnenuntergang

Discover one of the oldest cities in Germany and one of the most many-sided. Your private people carrier will take you comfortably from A to B, whether to the old town or to the cable car to visit Ehrenbreitstein Fortress. A visit to Stolzenfels Castle is also recommended. You decide the programme and we will implement it according to your wishes!

price:

€ 629.00 per Reservation for max. 4 people

duration:

approx. 3 Hours

transport:

Private Minivan

level:

Easy

Hint:

This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

Two women explore Strasbourg and stand in a doorway, both looking upwards.

Experience the romance of the Rhine in Koblenz in the cosiness of your private car. Whether at the Deutsches Eck, in the old town or at the Electoral Palace. We design the programme according to your wishes. To get even closer to the history and life in Koblenz, we recommend an English-speaking guide. This can be booked on request.

price:

€ 599.00 per Reservation for max. 2 people

duration:

approx. 3 Hours

transport:

Private car

level:

Easy

Hint:

This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

Promenade in Koblenz with a view of the Rhine, lined with trees and historic buildings, under clear skies and sunshine.

Discover Koblenz's old town in a relaxed and effortless way on this exclusive rickshaw tour. In Koblenz, modern rationality mixes with southern nonchalance. Passing the Schängel fountain and the romantic alleys, you will learn exciting information about the city's history. Of course, the city's landmark is also on the programme: the monumental Kaiser Wilhelm Monument at the Deutsches Eck. Enjoy the flowing together of the Rhine and Moselle and look up to the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress.

price:

€ 259.00 per Reservation for max. 2 people

duration:

approx. 2 Hours

transport:

Rickshaw and walking

level:

Easy

Hint:

No rain protection.This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

Zwei Personen lassen sich auf einer Rikscha durch eine belebte Stadtstraße fahren und schauen auf ihr Handy.

When modern rationality mixes with southern German nonchalance, something wonderful is created. Koblenz itself is the best example! The excursion begins with the landmark of the city: the monumental Kaiser Wilhelm monument at the Deutsches Eck (German Corner). The second landmark is the Schängel Fountain, which depicts a cheeky boy. Stroll through the romantic lanes between the Basilica St. Kastor and the Church of Our Lady, both feature impressive Romanesque two-tower façades. You will hear exciting details about the city's history along the way.

price:

€ 29.00 per person

duration:

approx. 2 Hours

transport:

walking

level:

Moderate

Luftaufnahme der Festung Ehrenbreitstein mit Blick auf den Zusammenfluss von Rhein und Mosel in Koblenz bei Sonnenuntergang

Your festive cruise on the Rhine comes to an end in Cologne. But before you set off on your journey home, full of memories, why not use the day to explore the city of Cologne? When in ‘Kölle’, a visit to the world-famous Cologne Cathedral is a must. Have a wonderful Christmas season, see you soon and ahoy! 

Cologne Cathedral at night with an illuminated Christmas market and a festively decorated Christmas tree in the foreground.

A-ROSA Premium all inclusive

Enjoy your most beautiful time with maximum comfort and with the all-round carefree package: A-ROSA Premium all inclusive.

Your desired cabin? Voilà! Sauna, fitness area, pool? Always at your service! Top culinary menus? Enjoy your meal! Attractive discounts on all massage and beauty treatments? Of course! Plus many other benefits that will always put a smile on your face, while you have nothing to do but think about your next wish.

  • Full BoardPlus: Comprehensive breakfast, lunch and dinner buffets with live-cooking stations, embarkation snack, as well as daily tea and coffee time
  • Tea, coffee and coffee specialities, water, soft drinks, beer, prosecco, as well as a selection of wines included throughout the day
  • Early Booking Discounts for bookings made until 31 August 2025 for cruises from November 2025 until January 2026.
  • Kids up to 15 years of age cruise for free on deck 1¹
  • One free change of reservation up to 30 days before departure
  • Comprehensive service concept with Guest Relations Management
  • Varied onboard entertainment for cruises of 7 nights or more with local performers
  • Room service in every cabin grade (during bar hours)²
  • A-ROSA App with information about your cruise
  • Special prices for additional services on board, e.g. SPA treatments, workshops³
  • Free e-bikes for independent exploration, subject to availability⁴
  • English-speaking travel and hotel management
  • Transfer between airport or TGV train station and ship when arrival is booked through A-ROSA⁵
  • Toiletries as well as bathrobes on request


¹ Children up to and including 15 years of age travel free of charge when accompanied by at least one (two in Cat. G) supervising adult on Deck 1. From Deck 2 children receive a 30 % discount. Furthermore, children up to 7 years of age accompanied by 2 supervising adults can use a sofa bed free of charge on the A‑ROSA SENA in categories B - D. On the A‑ROSA ALVA, A‑ROSA ALEA & A‑ROSA CLEA children accompanied by at least one supervising adult receive a 30 % discount. The children’s discount is only valid for the cruise itself. Limited availabilities on all cruises.
² Drinks only, according to the room service menu. Except A-ROSA ALVA, A-ROSA ALEA and A-ROSA CLEA
³ Except A-ROSA ALEA and A-ROSA CLEA
⁴ A-ROSA ALVA, A-ROSA ALEA & A-ROSA CLEA: E-bike rental not available.
⁵ If a flight or TGV booking is made through A-ROSA, the transfer is included. You will receive the relevant details with your travel information.

PLEASE NOTE: Transfer between railway station and ship on the Danube & Rhine can be booked for an additional fee.

Drinks Package Premium All-Inclusive Plus

Every wish will come true at the bar! Treat yourself to a wide variety of flavours. For just € 19 per night and person at the Premium All-Inclusive fare, you can enjoy the most popular cocktails, long drinks and spirits in addition to the already included premium drinks. (during bar opening hours)

Transfer railway station - Ship - railway station

You have the option of booking our transfer service from the railway station to the ship and back for € 25 per person in Passau and € 30 per person in Cologne. The transfer service is only offered on the day of embarkation and disembarkation. For further information, please see your travel information.

A-ROSA Early Booking Price for bookings made until 31 August 2025 for cruises from November 2025 until January 2026.

Choose exactly the cabin you like. If available, we will book your desired cabin with cabin number.

Dates & Prices

Spacious and comfortable outside cabin. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe (available on request at reception).

 

Inside view of the cabins in category S on the A-ROSA AQUA and A-ROSA BRAVA with an extra bed.

Spacious and comfortable outside cabin. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe (available on request at reception).

 

Inside view of the cabins in Category A on the A-ROSA AQUA and A-ROSA BRAVA.

Spacious, comfortable outside cabin with Juliette balcony. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe (available on request at reception).

 

Inside view of the cabins in category C and D on the A-ROSA AQUA and A-ROSA BRAVA with french balcony.

Spacious, comfortable outside cabin with Juliette balcony. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe (available on request at reception).

 

A couple is lying on the bed of a cabin in category C with a french balcony, planning their next excursion of their Rhine cruise with a map.

Spacious and comfortable outside cabin. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe (available on request at reception).

 

Inside view of the cabins in category S on the A-ROSA AQUA and A-ROSA BRAVA with an extra bed.

Spacious and comfortable outside cabin. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe (available on request at reception).

 

Inside view of the cabins in Category A on the A-ROSA AQUA and A-ROSA BRAVA.

Spacious, comfortable outside cabin with Juliette balcony. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe (available on request at reception).

 

Inside view of the cabins in category C and D on the A-ROSA AQUA and A-ROSA BRAVA with french balcony.

Spacious, comfortable outside cabin with Juliette balcony. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe (available on request at reception).

 

A couple is lying on the bed of a cabin in category C with a french balcony, planning their next excursion of their Rhine cruise with a map.