Christmas on the Rhine & Moselle

  • From AU$8,795
  • |
  • 12 Days
  • |
  • 10 Guided Tours
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  • 4 Countries

Koblenz, Germany

  • Festive Christmas market with food stalls

Koblenz is a traditional German country town with a wine heritage that spans centuries; a key ingredient for the warming glühwein that is served from taverns and market stalls during the holiday season. The scent of cinnamon, cloves and spices waft from steaming mugs as the sounds of festivities fill the air from one of the many musical performances, creating a toe-tapping atmosphere. Centered around the Schängel fountain, the Koblenz Christmas market offers all the flavors of the yuletide season from its famous Christmas bakery.

Scenic Sailing: Middle Rhine

  • Snow-covered castle overlooking a river valley

The Rhine River flows through one of Germany’s most scenic regions. As you sail its most picturesque stretch, the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Middle Rhine, you will pass vineyard-blanketed hills whose steep slopes require vintners to pick grapes by hand, keeping a centuries-old tradition alive. Splendid castles line the banks, all of which have stories to share, and the Lorelei Rock presides at a dramatic curve in the river. Here, legend has it that a river maiden mesmerized sailors with her song and lured them to their demise at her feet.

Shore Excursions

Shore excursions vary by each itinerary and are subject to change.

Historic Koblenz at Christmas

Take a festive stroll around Koblenz to explore its historic past and visit the Christmas market.

Included

Historic Koblenz at Christmas

Duration: 4 hours      

Immerse Yourself in the Charm of a Traditional Christmas Market

Take a festive stroll around Koblenz to explore its historic past and visit the Christmas market. Begin your tour at Deutsches Eck, the city’s famed German Corner and home to a popular equestrian statue of Emperor Wilhelm I. After time to admire the sculpture, continue your walk among the narrow streets. Revel in the yuletide atmosphere in the heart of the Old Town and admire the beautiful old school that has operated as the Koblenz City Hall since 1895. Get acquainted with local Christmas traditions during a stroll through the cheerful Christmas market; six different locations, between Münzplatz and Zentralplatz, host the festivities. As you pass the charming stalls, the sweet aroma of traditional holiday favorites, such as glühwein and roasted almonds. Indulge in a delicious, sweet treat before returning to your ship.

* Moderate - Walking portions may be long and somewhat challenging with occasional step-ups, stairs and inclines. Total time walking or standing normally ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours.
Historic castle overlooking river valley

Medieval Marksburg Castle

Visit Marksburg Castle, the only medieval-era stronghold in the Rhine Valley to have never been destroyed.
Historic castle overlooking river valley

Medieval Marksburg Castle

Duration: 3 hours      

Well-Preserved Portrait of Life in Medieval-Era Castle

Visit Marksburg Castle, the only medieval-era stronghold in the Rhine Valley to have never been destroyed. This mighty castle has watched over the town of Braubach since the 13th century; due to its strong fortifications, it was never besieged by enemies. Its butter-churn tower, so named because the upper reaches have a smaller diameter than the lower, is a beloved landmark with its distinct profile. Upon arrival, enjoy striking views of the surrounding countryside from its 300-foot perch, before following your guide across the rough-hewn stone passageways as you tour the citadel. Navigate narrow, winding staircases to view the wine cellar, a bedroom, dining area and the impressive kitchen of the Gothic Hall building. Cap your visit studying the Gimbel Collection, including its life-size figurines detailing changes to armor and weaponry through the ages, then return to your ship.

* Demanding - Physically challenging activities, including extensive walks, hiking, riding, water sports, and high altitude activities. Activities by foot may contain difficult, unpaved surfaces and/or multiple stairs and steep inclines. Total time walking or standing may exceed 3 hours.
Shore excursions vary by itinerary and are subject to change.

Videos

Historic castle overlooking river valley

Romantic Middle Rhine

Experience the majestic stretch of the Rhine River known affectionately as the “Romantic Middle Rhine.” Winding past quaint villages and medieval castles, this idyllic waterway offers a window into the past and unmatched vistas.
Two people walking in a cemetery

Koblenz Jewish Cemetery

Join Karine for the moving story of the Koblenz Jewish Cemetery, a sanctuary of reflection and a window into the history of a community and culture that were once nearly lost.
Historic stone corridor with two visitors

Iconic Marksburg Castle

Painstakingly chiseled into the slate bedrock of a mountain peak, Marksburg has long stood as one of Germany’s most formidable castles. Step back into the Middle Ages with Karine as she explores the heart of this legendary stronghold.