Welcome to Amsterdam, a 700-year-old city that has seen legends form and prospered from the Dutch Golden Age, a time at which Dutch art was among the world's most acclaimed. Here, a number of old masters found their inspiration, and modern galleries showcase the work that they created. When you arrive to Amsterdam, you'll be met at the airport and transferred to your contemporary Star-Ship, where you'll enjoy some time to explore the city at leisure after boarding. ... Read More
Amsterdam is a wonderful destination all year-round, but during the Christmas period, the entire city sparkles with fairy lights and Christmas cheer. Snow blankets the narrow-cobbled streets, and the Dutch indulge in oliebollen and appelbeignets, deep fried sweets that can be purchased from stalls that look like the traditional alpine huts in one of Amsterdam's many Christmas markets. Today, you'll have the opportunity to take to Amsterdam's UNESCO World Heritage-listed canal system during a glass-top canal boat cruise, passing areas that are covered in white powdered snow and watching people relax with drinking warm cups of traditional hot chocolademelk. ... Read More
Thursday - Nov 28, 2024
Day 3
Cologne, Germany
The wafting aroma of freshly roasted chestnuts and mulled wine welcomes you in Cologne, where the largest Christmas tree in the Rhineland can be found during the holiday season. Today, enjoy a walking tour of Cologne and visit the colorful Christmas market that sits underneath the shadows of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Cologne Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece that effortlessly creates a striking backdrop to the nativity-like scene below. More than a hundred half-timbered stalls are swathed in light, streaming down from the twinkling canopy of bulbs that criss-crosses above. In Cologne's many Christmas markets, you'll find glittering ornaments, artisans creating handcrafted goods, and freshly baked produce, including lebkuchen, a beloved round or heart-shaped type of gingerbread that usually includes honey, cardamom, or candied fruit. Enjoy drinking mulled wine from a festive mug as you soak in the views of what is arguably one of the best Christmas markets in Europe. ... Read More
Friday - Nov 29, 2024
Day 4
Rudesheim, Germany
Today, take a step into the UNESCO World Heritage-listed historical landscape of the Rhine Gorge, where the beams of Rudesheim's half-timbered houses are covered in fairy lights. Rudesheim hosts the 'Christmas Market of Nations', where more than a hundred stalls effortlessly represent more than a dozen nations, each showcasing their own Christmas specialities, customs, and celebrations. While in Rudesheim, enjoy an excursion to Siegfried's Mechanical Music Museum, and perhaps indulge in some Rudesheim coffee, a famous drink made with locally distilled Asbach Uralt brandy, served with whipped cream, and sprinkled with vanilla sugar and chocolate flakes. This festive drink is certain to warm you on a frosty winter's day. Later, return to the plush surrounds of your Star-Ship for a special onboard performance. ... Read More
Saturday - Nov 30, 2024
Day 5
Miltenberg, Germany
Wertheim, Germany
Welcome to Miltenberg. This postcard-worthy town can be found set against the lush backdrop of the Odenwald forest. Christmastime swathes the area with festive cheer, and decorations and colorful window displays as far as the eye can see are all illuminated at dusk by twinkling fairy lights. Miltenberg is home to one of the oldest pubs in Germany, and its delightful boutique market features stalls full of local arts, crafts, and delightful treats. Perhaps try an apple streusel kuchen during your time here, a type of apple crumb cake that the area is famous for. ... Read More
Sunday - Dec 1, 2024
Day 6
Wurzburg, Germany
Today, enjoy a guided tour of Wurzburg and the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Wurzburg Residence. Nestled in the heart of the Old Town, you'll find an enchanting Christmas market. Steeped in 19th-century beginnings, more than 100 wooden stalls showcase seasonal decorations and delectable treats, all coated by the soft glow of Christmas lights. A traditional mug of Gluhwein, a hot red wine infused with spices, is the best way to fight off the chill of a cold day. The Wurzburg Residence is a true icon, built by the prince bishops centuries ago, and the opulence that it displays is truly breathtaking. Enjoy a guided tour of what is quite possibly one of the most beautiful Baroque palaces in Europe, as its gardens are blanketed by fresh snow. ... Read More
Monday - Dec 2, 2024
Day 7
Bamberg, Germany
The UNESCO World Heritage-listed town of Bamberg is home to not just one, but four delightful Christmas markets, each acting as sparkling gems set amongst half-timbered surrounds in this quaint little town. Here, you'll be able to find some of the loveliest Baroque nativity scenes that Germany has to offer. While you enjoy a guided tour of all of Bamberg's main highlights, make sure to stop and try a glass of Bamberg's famous beer. Nine breweries call the town their home, and several of their world-famous products are still made using traditional Franconian brewing methods. ... Read More
Tuesday - Dec 3, 2024
Day 8
Nuremberg, Germany
After breakfast, it is time to say farewell to your fellow guests and disembark the ship for your transfer to the airport for your onward or homebound flight, taking memories of the delightful Rhine and Main rivers with you. Please book your flight to depart out of Nuremberg after 1:00 pm. Please note: This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. ... Read More
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