5Nights

Rhine Enchanting Christmas Markets 2024

Weihnachtsmarkt mit A-ROSA
Koelner Weihnachtsmarkt
Strasbourg Weihnachtsmarkt mit A-ROSA

Highlights of the River Cruise Rhine

On A-ROSA ALEA

From Cologne to Rüdesheim, Germersheim (Speyer), Strasbourg (Kehl), Mainz and Koblenz to Cologne.

Since many of its dangerous shoals have been removed, the Rhine has been flowing peacefully along almost its entire length. So the best remedy for pre-Christmas stress: flow along for a few days. It will carry you relaxed past castles, palaces and monasteries to the old towns that have dressed up festively. There you can rummage for gifts in peace and quiet and get into the mood of anticipation with baked apples, punch and hearty brass band music. In addition, there are wonders to marvel at such as the Strasbourg Cathedral. In the evening on board, you can look forward to Christmas delicacies and inspiration for your own festive menus.

Weihnachten mit A-ROSA genießen

Rüdesheim

On your Christmas cruise, we'll also stop in Rüdesheim. With its half-timbered facades, Drosselgasse is a picturesque showcase for the outstanding wines of the Upper Middle Rhine Valley - a landscape that is the epitome of Rhine romanticism and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Rüdesheim was once secured by four castles, being strategically located at the end of former merchant routes. The ruins of Ehrenfels Castle, Boosenburg Castle and Brömserburg Castle, which today houses the Rheingau Wine Museum, are relics of the town's eventful history.

Mainz Dom Weihnachtsmarkt

Mainz

With 2,000 years of city history, Mainz is not only one of the oldest cities in Germany, but also a place where great history comes alive at every turn. Traditions are also fully celebrated at Christmastime! Be sure to visit the historic Christmas market on the Domplatz. The illuminated and decorated Mainz Cathedral will surely enchant you.

Weihnachten mit A-ROSA

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

Map: Rhine Enchanting Christmas Markets 2024
Map: Rhine Enchanting Christmas Markets 2024

Here we start the contemplative Christmas cruise on the Rhine. But you should also get to know the cathedral city with its many buildings and attractions. The best way is to arrive already relaxed one day before your cruise or simply extend your stay after the cruise.

A-ROSA Sena in Köln

You will spend the 2nd day of your Christmas cruise in the center of Rhine Romanticism, which once inspired poets and musicians. For example, Brahms composed his 3rd symphony in Rüdesheim. In cultural terms, the most famous place of the Rheingau has a lot to show, including historic noble courts and fortifications. And of course, on this day of your Christmas cruise on the Rhine, the coffee speciality "Rüdesheimer Kaffee", invented here, should not be missed.

 Weinplantage Rüdesheim

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:

€ 25 per person

duration:

approx. 2 h

transport:

walking

level:

Moderate

Weihnachten mit A-ROSA

Welcome to the Upper Rhine. Germersheim is only about 20 km from the city of Speyer, which is over 2000 years old. Speyer is Germany’s oldest planned medieval town. Speyer’s most prominent monument is its cathedral. As one of the country’s most important High Romanesque cathedrals, it is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You are sure to have an enjoyable day in Speyer.

Ausflug Speyer Kirche

Trips

The Palatinate is known for its laid-back atmosphere, its Mediterranean-style climate and its wonderful cuisine. If you like fine wine, good food and regional specialities, you’ve come to the right place. And, as if that wasn’t enough, there are also castles, palaces, museums and mining centres to explore. Your private tour guide will be happy to show you all of this: we recommend that you book a people carrier too, so that you can relax as you discover the beauty of the Palatinate.

price:

€ 459 per reservation for max. 5 people

duration:

approx. 4.5 h

transport:

german tour guide only

level:

Moderate

Hint:

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

Explore the Palatinate region at your own pace - English-speaking tour guide for up to 5 people

Few routes are better known than the Palatinate region’s German Wine Route, which passes through picturesque towns such as Bad Dürkheim, Deidesheim and Neustadt. You’ll find a wealth of treasures of all kinds in this region, which has long been famous for its wine. Thanks to your private people carrier and your driver, you’ll have the opportunity to explore this stunning region in comfort. You can also book an expert tour guide at the same time if you wish.

price:

€ 699 per reservation for max. 5 people

duration:

approx. 4.5 h

transport:

Private Minivan

level:

Easy

Hint:

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

Explore the Palatinate region at your own pace - Private people carrier with driver for up to 5 people

Experience 2,000 years of history in Speyer. This was once the centre of the Holy Roman Empire of the German nation. In the historical old town you’ll come across traces of its remarkable past at every turn as you stroll down romantic lanes and cross busy squares. The mighty Speyer Cathedral dominates the city’s skyline. It is the largest Romanesque church today and is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. At the end of your visit here there’ll be time to have a look around on your own: why not visit the crypt, which was consecrated in 1041 and boasts the largest Romanesque columned hall (admission costs approx. €4).

price:

€ 49 per person

duration:

approx. 3.5 h

transport:

Bus and walking

level:

Moderate

Ausflug Speyer Kirche

Heidelberg was already sung about, painted and described by the Romantics. No wonder, given its location on the Neckar and the castle towering over the city! The city's landmark is one of the most famous ruins in Germany. The tour takes you, among other things, through the dreamy inner courtyard and to the famous Great Barrel. Afterwards, you will explore the baroque Old Town with the Old Bridge, the Heiliggeistkirche (Church of the Holy Spirit), which was completed in the 16th century, and the "Haus zum Ritter". It is the most beautiful historic town house in the city. After the tour, you can look around individually before returning to Germersheim by coach.

price:

€ 75 per person

duration:

approx. 4.5 h

transport:

Bus and walking

level:

Moderate

Picturesque Heidelberg

Today your Rhine river cruise will call at Strasbourg – a centre of European policymaking. With its medieval half-timbered houses and its elegant city palaces, Strasbourg really stands out from the crowd. But the highlight is the cathedral. From its viewing platform, the city’s half-timbered houses appear as small as pieces from a model railway set. Enjoy your day in the French part of the Rhine region!

A-ROSA Kreuzfahrt Strassburg

Trips

Discover the best of Strasbourg with your private English-speaking tour guide – whether you opt to explore the European quarter, the former tanners’ quarter Petite France or the cathedral. You’ll decide what you want to do, and your guide will tailor the tour to meet your individual requirements. Walking through Strasbourg is like travelling through time, and you can choose which eras you’d like to experience.

price:

€ 399 per reservation for max. 6 people

duration:

approx. 4 h

transport:

german tour guide only

level:

Moderate

Hint:

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

Strassburg bei einer Rheinkreuzfahrt entdecken

Would you like to explore Strasbourg on your own while travelling in comfort? Then book a private people carrier for up to six people. You can also book an expert tour guide at the same time if you wish. Whether you go alone, as a couple or with new friends you’ve made on your cruise, you’ll be able to discover the parts of Strasbourg that you’re most interested in.

price:

€ 659 per reservation for max. 6 people

duration:

approx. 4 h

transport:

Private Minivan

level:

Easy

Hint:

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

A-ROSA Kreuzfahrt Strassburg

Strasbourg should not be missed during the pre-Christmas season, not only because it has France’s oldest Christmas Market. Beginning with a short stroll through the old town, the excursion will take you to the world-famous Strasbourg Minster and past numerous old timber-framed houses. Afterwards you will have enough time to explore the delightful Christmas market on your own.

price:

€ 69 per person

duration:

approx. 4.5 h

transport:

Bus and walking

level:

Moderate

Strassburg zur Weinachts Zeit

Mainz

Arr 08:00 am Dep 12:00 pm

With 2,000 years of city history, Mainz is not only one of the oldest cities in Germany, but also a place where great history comes alive at every turn. Traditions are also fully celebrated at Christmastime! Be sure to visit the historic Christmas market on the Domplatz. The illuminated and decorated Mainz Cathedral will surely enchant you.

St. Martin Dom in Mainz mit A-ROSA

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 per reservation for max. 4 people

duration:

approx. 3 h

transport:

Private tour guide

level:

Moderate

Hint:

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

St. Martin Dom in Mainz mit A-ROSA

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 per reservation for max. 4 people

duration:

approx. 3 h

transport:

Private Minivan

level:

Easy

Hint:

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

Rheinkreuzfahrt nach Mainz

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 per reservation for max. 2 people

duration:

approx. 3 h

transport:

Private car

level:

Easy

Hint:

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

St. Martin Dom in Mainz mit A-ROSA

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:

€ 45 per person

duration:

approx. 2 h

transport:

walking

level:

Moderate

Weingenuss in Cochem an der Mosel

Koblenz

Arr 06:30 pm Dep 09:30 pm

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.

Rhein-Kreuzfahrten nach Koblenz

Trips

On this private culinary excursion, you will walk through the alleys of Koblenz's old town and learn exciting anecdotes about life in the historic city. Learn interesting facts about popular recipes around "Debbekoche", "Dunkes" and "kalde Ent" while strolling past the fascinating and historically well-preserved half-timbered houses. Experience the modern city and its architectural masterpieces and and stop off at various places to sample typical Koblenz specialities and small appetisers.

price:

€ 299 per reservation for max. 4 people

duration:

approx. 2 h

transport:

walking

level:

Moderate

Hint:

This excursion is not available in English.

 Koblenz Ehrenbreitstein

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:

€ 299 per reservation for max. 4 people

duration:

approx. 3 h

transport:

walking

level:

Moderate

Hint:

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

Rhein-Kreuzfahrten nach Koblenz

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 per reservation for max. 4 people

duration:

approx. 3 h

transport:

Private Minivan

level:

Easy

Hint:

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

Flusskreuzfahrt nach Koblenz

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 per reservation for max. 2 people

duration:

approx. 3 h

transport:

Private car

level:

Easy

Hint:

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

Deutsches eck in Koblenz Ausflug

Let yourself be enchanted by the old town and the magnificent sights on this evening walk through Koblenz. Walk along the Moselle to the Deutsches Eck, where you can marvel at the monumental Kaiser Wilhelm Monument, as well as the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle and the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress opposite. Stroll through the romantic alleys into the old town, past the Schängelbrunnen, a monument to a rascal. Between the Romanesque churches of St. Kastor and the Liebfrauenkirche (Church of Our Lady) you will learn exciting information about the history of Koblenz.

price:

€ 0

duration:

approx. 1.5 h

transport:

walking

level:

Moderate

Hint:

This excursion is included on your cruise. Please book online in advance.

Deutsches eck in Koblenz Ausflug

Your exciting Rhine cruise ends in Cologne, but your wonderful memories will last forever. Before you start your journey home, use the day to take a further look around North Rhine-Westphalia or explore the city. The magnificent cathedral of Cologne is an absolute must-see. See you soon and Ahoy!

A-ROSA Sena in Köln

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 all transfers and 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 Board Plus: breakfast and lunch buffets, in the evening you choose your starters and desserts from the delicious buffet, the main courses are served at the table.
  • High-quality drinks included throughout the day: tea, coffee and coffee specialities, soft drinks, beers, sparkling wine and a selection of wines, cocktails and long drinks. Also besides the lunch and dinner hours. Exceptions are specialities subject to surcharges and champagne.
  • Super Early Booking Discount for bookings made until 31 October 2024
  • A-ROSA travel cancellation insurance (booking until 30 November 2023)
  • English-speaking travel and hotel management on our international ships.
  • Children up to and including 15 years accompanied by at least one supervising adult receive a 30 % discount.¹
  • Change booking one time free of charge up to 30 days prior to departure
  • Half-day excursion included (from 7-night cruises)
  • Comprehensive service concept with guest relations management
  • Free use of the on-board facilities such as whirlpool and fitness room
  • Free WiFi (excluding streaming services)
  • A-ROSA App with information about your cruise
  • Transfer between airport and ship when booked via A-ROSA
  • 15 % discount on treatments in our SPA-ROSA
  • Bathroom amenities and bathrobe at the reception
  • On-board entertainment
  • Port charges
  • many other services

 

¹The children’s discount is only valid for the cruise itself. Limited availabilities on all cruises.
²Guests receive a voucher, only for embarkation and/or debarkation in Cologne.

Book now your trip with the Premium all inclusive package until 31 October 2024 and you will benefit from our attractive Super Early Booking Discount (limited contingent).

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.

A-ROSA Alea Kabine S

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.

A-ROSA Alea Kabine S

Spacious and comfortable outside cabin with a 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.

A-ROSA Alea Kabine C

Spacious and comfortable outside cabin with a 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.

A-ROSA Alea Kabine C

Generously sized Junior Suite with Juliette balcony, sofa, spacious bathroom and walk-in closet. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Additional services: check-in and personal welcome from 12.00 h, Suite cocktail with the hotel manager, free use of the mini bar, fresh flowers and fruit, butler service.

A-ROSA Clea Kabine E

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.

A-ROSA Alea Kabine S

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.

A-ROSA Alea Kabine S

Spacious and comfortable outside cabin with a 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.

A-ROSA Alea Kabine C

Spacious and comfortable outside cabin with a 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.

A-ROSA Alea Kabine C

Generously sized Junior Suite with Juliette balcony, sofa, spacious bathroom and walk-in closet. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Additional services: check-in and personal welcome from 12.00 h, Suite cocktail with the hotel manager, free use of the mini bar, fresh flowers and fruit, butler service.

A-ROSA Clea Kabine E

Arrival & hotel

BY TRAIN TO COLOGNE - RAIL & CRUISE

Train operated by Deutsche Bahn from all German train stations to Cologne.

Train from € 179 per person (without BahnCard 2nd Class)

ARRIVE ON YOUR OWN - AND PARK SAFELY!

If you plan your arrival individually, we offer you a parking space in a guarded car park for the length of your cruise.

Price from € 81 per car (fenced parking lot)
Price from € 99 per car (roofed parking space)

OUTBOUND & RETURN FLIGHT TO/FROM COLOGNE, E.G. WITH LUFTHANSA, AIR FRANCE, SWISS

From Munich, Berlin, Vienna or Zurich incl. transfer Airport – Ship – Airport (incl. taxes).

Flights from € 309 per person

You want a relaxed arrival and departure? Then choose one of these hotels! Your advantage: You arrive already one or two days before disembarkation and can consciously look forward to the journey with A-ROSA. Or you can let your vacation come to an end in a very juicy way before you start your journey home. All hotels are personally and carefully selected by us to round off your vacation.

The Maritim Hotel Cologne is located directly on the Rhine, only a few steps away from the charming old town, the cathedral and the city centre as well as the central station. The hotel impresses with its extraordinary architecture and has 454 rooms and suites, all of which are equipped with a bathroom/toilet, mini fridge (unfilled), safe, radio, TV and a telephone. In the spacious, glass-roofed hotel lobby you will find a variety of boutiques and restaurants.

Prices include the tax for the promotion and advancement of culture. Not valid during certain exhibitions in Cologne.

Included services
Overnight stay incl. breakfast, extended stay possible

Double occupancy

€ 119 pp

Single occupancy

€ 179 pp

Double occupancy

€ 129 pp

Single occupancy

€ 209 pp

Double occupancy

€ 159 pp

Single occupancy

€ 279 pp

Luxury in the middle of the city center is what the Dorint Hotel am Heumarkt Cologne offers you. The panoramic elevator with a view of the cathedral takes you to your chic room, which includes everything you need to work and relax. In addition, an exclusive fitness and wellness area (fee required) with glass-roofed pool and the chic Harry's New-York Bar await you.

Prices include the tax for the promotion and advancement of culture. Not valid during certain exhibitions in Cologne.

Included services
Overnight stay incl. breakfast, extended stay possible

Hotel Rhein

Double occupancy

€ 129 pp

Single occupancy

€ 189 pp

Double occupancy

€ 169 pp

Double occupancy

€ 209 pp

Excelsior Hotel Ernst – Cologne's only member of The Leading Hotels of the World – offers a unique combination of tradition and innovation. The hotel’s prominent location near Cologne Cathedral means that it is easy to get to, while the harmonious colour scheme and classic yet modern furnishings create a timeless atmosphere. All rooms and suites have free Wi-Fi for mobile devices and are equipped with SuitePad, the hotel’s digital concierge service. The Michelin-starred restaurant "taku" welcomes you with deliciously authentic East Asian masterpieces. And in the gourmet restaurant "Hanse Stube" you can experience French cuisine with local influences. Access to the hotel gym, sauna and steam bath, use of your hotel room’s minibar and a shoeshine service are all included in the price. Prices include culture tax. Offer not valid during certain trade fairs in Cologne.

We would be pleased to make you an offer based on daily updated rates.
For further information, please contact service@a-rosa.com

Included services
Overnight stay incl. breakfast, extended stay possible

Excelsior Hotel Ernst Grand Deluxe

The listed Steigenberger Hotel is located in the heart of the Rhine metropolis Cologne, just a few minutes away from historic sights. Within a few minutes you can reach Cologne Cathedral as well as the famous Rhine river promenade and other hotspots of the city.

The 305 modern rooms, some of which even have a view over the city Cologne, are more than just a hotel room. The comfortable furnishings of all rooms include air conditioning, satellite TV, desk, free local calls, safe, minibar as well as a Nespresso coffee machine and a kettle for making tea. The bathrooms are equipped with shower or bathtub.

The Bar Bistro 19NullZwo offers the perfect atmosphere with modern colours and shapes for short breaks with delicious coffee specialities, snacks or a treat for body and soul.

We would be pleased to make you an offer based on daily updated rates.
For further information, please contact service@a-rosa.com

 

Steigenberger Köln

Ships on this cruise

A-ROSA ALEA

A-ROSA ALEA