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Christmastime on the Romantic Rhine (Northbound)

Dec 8 - 15, 2026

Your Advisor

Melinda Alcosser

With Heart Travel

melinda@withhearttravel.com

310-903-5107

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Full Itinerary Daily Overview Pricing

Overview

Experience an 8-day river cruise along the Rhine River from Basel to Amsterdam, exploring festive Christmas markets and historic sites in Switzerland, Germany, France, and the Netherlands.

Trip Details

The Avalon Experience

Cruise with the World at your Feet The widest view in the whole wide world No other fleet of river cruise ships offers you a view of the world like Avalon Suite Ships,® featuring Avalon Panorama SuitesSM. Thirty percent larger than the industry st...

Avalon Cruise Packing List

Essential Documents & Money Passport & ID: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your return date. Travel Insurance: Coverage for health, belongings, and trip interruptions is a must. Credit Cards & Euros: While credit cards a...

Day 1 · Tue, Dec 8 · Basel, Switzerland

About Your Ship - Avalon Envision

Just envision Europe's most spectacular views passing your panoramic window like ever-changing picture postcards. The Avalon Envision brings this dream to life as part of the youngest fleet of ships on Europe's waterways. Avalon continues our outstanding commitment to relaxed luxury and excellence with the Envision.

About Your Cruise - Christmastimeon the Rhine Basel to Amsterdam

One of Europe’s most legendary rivers awaits you on this winter wonderland journey along the Rhine River, which starts in Switzerland with stops in France, Germany, and Holland! Each town is festively lit and decorated, and strains of Christmas ca...

Avalon Panoramic Suite - Verandah Staterooms

Dec 8 - 15, 2026

Experience the elegance of the Avalon Panoramic Suite, where every detail is designed for your comfort and enjoyment. The ship offers a range of luxurious amenities, including fine dining, a fitness center, and a relaxing spa. With its innovative ...

Basel: A Cultural Crossroads

Dec 8

Destination Overview Nestled along the banks of the Rhine River, Basel is a city where Swiss precision meets a vibrant cultural tapestry. Known for its rich history, world-class museums, and lively arts scene, Basel is a place where tradition and ...

Day 2 · Wed, Dec 9 · Breisach, Germany

Breisach: A Riverside Gem

Dec 9

Destination Overview Nestled along the banks of the Rhine River, Breisach is a charming town that straddles the border between Germany and France. Known for its picturesque landscapes and rich history, Breisach offers a delightful blend of cultura...

Excursion to Black Forest

The Beautiful Black Forest Classic Excursion: Join a full-day Guided Tour to the magical Black Forest to experience local traditions and the vibrant Christmas mood, OR: Classic Excursion: Join a Guided Tour to explore Freiburg’s medieval city cent...

Day 3 · Thu, Dec 10 · Strasbourg, France

Strasbourg: A Charming Blend of Cultures

Dec 10

Destination Overview Strasbourg, nestled in the heart of the Alsace region, is a city where French and German influences intertwine to create a unique cultural tapestry. Known for its picturesque half-timbered houses, winding canals, and the majes...

Joyeux Noël in Strasbourg

Classic Excursion: Join a City Sightseeing Tour, including Strasbourg’s Gothic, stained-glass cathedral with its celebrated ancient murals and astronomical clock, as well as the magical La Petite France District. Savor the warmth and glow of Chris...

Day 4 · Fri, Dec 11 · Mainz, Germany

Mainz: A Journey Through Time and Taste

Dec 11

Destination Overview Nestled along the banks of the Rhine River, Mainz is a city where history and modernity blend seamlessly. Known for its rich cultural heritage, Mainz is the birthplace of Johannes Gutenberg, the inventor of the movable-type pr...

Excursion to Heidelberg

Discovery Excursion: Enjoy a Guided Tour to Heidelberg Castle at Christmastime to see the ruins of the magnificent renaissance treasure towering above the city, and its famed Great Vat, the “World’s Largest Wine Barrel,” OR: Classic Excursion: Enj...

Day 5 · Sat, Dec 12 · Rüdesheim, Germany

Koblenz: A Journey Through Time and Festivity

Dec 12

Destination Overview Nestled at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers, Koblenz is a city steeped in history and charm. Known for its picturesque landscapes and rich cultural heritage, Koblenz offers a delightful blend of ancient architect...

Rüdesheim and Rhine Gorge

Classic Excursion: Take a Guided Tour of the incredible Mechanical Music Museum; enjoy a tasting of the authentic Rüdesheimer coffee. Free time to enjoy Rüdesheim’s Christmas markets. Sail through the Rhine Gorge: Take in the breathtaking views of...

Day 6 · Sun, Dec 13 · Cologne, Germany

Cologne: A Timeless Tapestry of History and Culture

Dec 13

Destination Overview Cologne, a vibrant city in western Germany, gracefully straddles the Rhine River. As Germany's oldest city, with a history spanning over 2,000 years, Cologne is a cultural hub that seamlessly blends the ancient with the modern...

Celebrate in Cologne

Classic Excursion: Take a Guided City Walk of Cologne—with its soaring twin-steepled gothic cathedral. Free time enjoying Cologne’s Christmas markets. Discovery Excursion: Onboard lecture about European Christmas traditions. Afternoon/Overnight Cr...

Day 7 · Mon, Dec 14 · Amsterdam, Netherlands

Colorful Amsterdam: A Vibrant Journey

Dec 14

Destination Overview Amsterdam, the capital of the Netherlands, is a city that enchants with its vibrant canals, historic architecture, and a spirit of creativity that pulses through its streets. Known for its artistic heritage, Amsterdam is a pla...

Canals of Colorful Amsterdam

Classic Excursion: Explore the iconic waterways of Amsterdam on a Guided Canal Cruise. Free day to explore Amsterdam or join a Guided Optional Excursion to Zaanse Schans. Overnight Docking in Amsterdam Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner included.

Day 8 · Tue, Dec 15 · Amsterdam, Netherlands

About Your Cruise - Disembarkation in Amsterdam

Your cruise ends with breakfast this morning. - Breakfast included.