Enchanting Rhine Christmas Markets

• Day 1 - Arrive Amsterdam, Embark Ship:
  

  Welcome to Amsterdam. We’ll meet you on arrival and transfer you to your ship. Settle into your suite before getting to know your fellow travellers and APT Cruise Director at a welcome reception. Savour fresh locally sourced oysters with regional sparkling wine. After your first dinner on board, you may like to explore the city at your own pace.

• Day 2 - Amsterdam:
  

  Spend the day in the Dutch capital on your preferred activity. Rejoin the ship in Utrecht and cruise towards Germany in the afternoon.

  Freedom of Choice – Glass-Top Boat Canal Cruise

  Step aboard a glass-top boat and glide through Amsterdam's iconic maze of World Heritage-listed canals, admiring the unique gable facades of the buildings, and 17th-century architecture along the way - a tranquil way to experience the city.

  Freedom of Choice – Culinary Discovery

  Discover the culinary favourites of The Netherlands. See and taste a variety of Dutch delicacies as you visit local producers..

• Day 3 - Cologne:
  

  Discover the rich history and charm of Cologne on a guided walking tour. A highlight of the tour is a visit to Cologne Cathedral. This gothic masterpiece overlooking the Rhine took over seven centuries to complete and is considered one of finest Catholic cathedrals in the world. The cathedral’s iconic twin spires rise high above the city, greeting visitors from a distance as they sail into Cologne. It is Germany's most visited landmark and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

  The afternoon is yours to enjoy at leisure. Wander through Cologne's enchanting Christmas Markets, ideally located along the riverfront, where festive lights, hand-crafted decorations, and the distinctive aroma of cinnamon, cloves, orange peel, and other Christmas spices fill the air. Sip hot glühwein, savour lebkuchen cookies, and revel in the rich traditions of German Christmas.

• Day 4 - Andernach, Rüdesheim:
  

  This morning, enjoy an exclusive Signature Experience and a favourite among APT guests. Later, back on board your vessel, begin a scenic journey sailing between Andernach and Rüdesheim, a strech considered one of the most spectacular along the Rhine River. Glide past ancient castles, monasteries, vineyards, historical towns and villages.

  Signature Experience – Namedy Castle

  Visit Namedy Castle, a 14th-century residence set near the Rhine River in Germany, and the home of Princess Heide von Hohenzollern. If you're lucky, you might have the opportunity to meet the princess, if she's in residence. Discover the rich interiors of the palace on a guided tour, admiring the ornately decorated rooms, perfectly manicured gardens and grounds. Afterwards, relax during morning tea, while a pianist sets the mood with a performance of classical music.

• Day 5 - Rüdesheim:
  

  Explore one of Germany’s most revered cultural and historic cities with your chosen activity.

  Freedom of Choice – Gondola Ride

  Glide over the emerald vineyards of the Rhine Valley in a gondola, enjoying stunning vistas. At the top, arrive at the Niederwald Monument, commemorating the unification of Germany in 1871.

  Freedom of Choice – Siegfried's Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum

  Take a tour of Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum. This eccentric and unique museum is home to a beautiful collection of fascinating automated musical instruments from all stages of history. During the festive season, the Christmas market transforms the town's square into a festive wonderland, filled with delightful hand-craftec gifts and delicious treats only available at this joyful time of year.

  Freedom of Choice – Visit a Historic Wine Cellar

  Visit a historic wine cellar for a tasting of Rhine Valley wines. Discover why this location is one of Germany’s most well-known wine regions, and perhaps savour a hot mug of Christmas glühwein.

• Day 6 - Strasbourg:
  

  Embark on a guided walking tour of Strasbourg, discovering the city's charming medieval historic quarter, filled with cobbled streets, picturesque squares and enchanting canals. During the tour, experience the region's rich culinary heritage with a tasting of traditional Alsatian cheeses and freshly made macarons, showcasing the flavours of Strasbourg, located in the northeast of France, near the border with Germany.

  This afternoon, embrace the festive spirit of Strasbourg as you wander through the atmospheric lanes of the renowned Christkindelsmärik. Dating back more than four centuries, Strasbourg's celebrated Christmas market transforms the city's historic heart into a captivating winter wonderland, where festive lights strewn between the city's famous half-timbered buildings create an unforgettable ambience. Take time to soak up the enchanting atmosphere and discover why Strasbourg is known as the 'Capital of Christmas'.

• Day 7 - Breisach:
  

  Arrive in Breisach today and discover the region on your preferred activity.

  Freedom of Choice – Local Wine Tour

  Journey through a landscape of terraced vineyards and charming wine villages while gaining insight into a winemaking tradition that has shaped the region's identity for generations.

  Freedom of Choice – Colmar Guided Tour

  Discover the charm of Colmar, one of Alsace’s most picturesque towns, known for its colourful half-timbered houses, canals and rich cultural heritage. Enjoy a guided tour before time at leisure to explore the town’s enchanting Christmas markets, where festive lights, local traditions and seasonal treats create a truly magical atmosphere.

  Freedom of Choice – Black Forest

  Journey into the snow-dusted landscapes of the Black Forest, where picturesque villages, centuries-old traditions and the artistry of cuckoo clock making offer a fascinating glimpse into local life.

• Day 8 - Disembark Ship, Depart Basel:
  

  Your extraordinary Rhine Cruise concludes today. Following breakfast, say goodbye and be transferred to the airport.

• 18 Nov 2028 - 25 Nov 2028
  from $6,645 pp twin share / $11,645 pp solo *
• 02 Dec 2028 - 09 Dec 2028
  from $6,945 pp twin share / $12,145 pp solo *
• 16 Dec 2028 - 23 Dec 2028
  from $6,945 pp twin share / $12,145 pp solo *

* Prices and category availability are subject to change without notice.

• Seven nights, APT Alara

How long is this journey?

This itinerary runs for 8 days and 7 nights.

When can I travel?

Departures are currently scheduled between 18 Nov 2028 and 23 Dec 2028, subject to live availability.

Are there different departure options?

Yes, multiple departures may be available depending on your preferred travel period.

Can I travel solo?

Solo pricing may be available on selected departures, and final options can be confirmed at enquiry.

What is generally included?

Inclusions typically cover guided touring and selected experiences, with exact details listed in the itinerary.