This Old World Christmas tour invites you to experience the magic of Europe’s holiday season from the comfort of a luxurious Rhine River cruise. As you glide along the river aboard the elegant MS Amadeus Riva, festive markets, historic towns, and seasonal traditions unfold at a relaxed and enjoyable pace.
You’ll stroll cobblestone streets in Koblenz, sip mulled wine in Heidelberg and Strasbourg, and explore Alsatian villages filled with lights and local specialties. From the Swiss Alps to the lakes of Lugano and Como, each day brings a new perspective, whether you are enjoying fondue in Lucerne or taking in sweeping views from Mount Pilatus.
With comfortable accommodations, thoughtfully paced touring, and the camaraderie of fellow travelers, this journey captures the warmth and joy of a European Christmas.
Highlights
- Cruise along the Rhine aboard the MS Amadeus Riva.
- Visit Christmas markets across Germany, France, Switzerland, and Italy.
- Experience local holiday traditions and seasonal foods.
- Take in panoramic alpine views from Mount Pilatus.
- Travel with CTD President Matthias Jonas.
DAYS 1-2: WELCOME TO COLOGNE
Following our included overnight flight, we will arrive in Cologne and transfer to our home for the next four nights — the MS Amadeus Riva. Once onboard, familiarize yourself with the amenities and indulge in the gourmet cuisine available. D
DAY 3: KOBLENZ
Today, we’ll discover one of Germany’s oldest and friendliest towns with a history spanning over 2,000 years. On this guided walk you will stroll through the appealing streets to uncover the St. Castor Basilica, the Church of Our Beloved Lady, and the iconic Schängel Fountain at the town hall. A stop at the Memorial of Emperor Wilhelm at the German Corner where the Rhine and Moselle rivers converge will add a historic touch. B, L, D
Option—Rudesheim with Music Cabinet Museum Hop on the unique Winzerexpress from the ship’s dock to the “Siegfried Mechanical Music Cabinet” for a tour of historic self-playing instruments. Then enjoy a guided walk through Rüdesheim’s old town, exploring the lively Drosselgasse, local wine taverns, the Eagle Tower, and 15th-century fortifications. Price $69 per person
DAY 4: HEIDELBERG/CHRISTMAS MARKET
We will travel to Heidelberg, a renowned University City with a preserved baroque Old Town. Start with a visit to the red sandstone Heidelberg Castle — a beautiful ruin offering stunning views from the Grand Terrace. The tour continues through the lovely old town, including the Karl-Theodor Bridge, Church of the Holy Spirit, and town hall. End with time at Heidelberg’s Christmas Market where the scent of mulled wine, toasted almonds, and roasted chestnuts will fill the air. B, L, D
Option—Speyer Walking Tour & Christmas Market Venture to Speyer, a historic city on the Rhine, known for its rich past and stunning architecture. The tour includes the Romanesque Imperial Cathedral, Church of the Holy Spirit, the Old Gate, and the Jewish Ritual Bath. Finish with a trip to Speyer’s Christmas Market. Price $59 per person
DAY 5: ALSACE/OBERNAI/STRASBOURG CHRISTMAS MARKET
Enjoy a scenic drive through wintry Alsace to Gertwiller, known for its Lebkuchen (Christmas gingerbread) and Glühwein (mulled wine). Then, stop at the charming town of Obernai and go through the old quarter to take in the centuries-old life-size Christmas crib in the market square. In the afternoon, explore Strasbourg by seeing the symbolic Strasbourg Cathedral and admire half-timbered houses up to 500 years old. Wander through the festive “Petite France” district and experience the Strasbourg Christmas Market, with free time to browse before returning to the ship. B, L, D
DAY 6: BASEL CHRISTMAS MARKET/LUCERNE
Upon disembarkation of the ship, we’ll begin the land portion of this journey. The adventure starts with a tasting of a local Basel specialty — the delicious, gingerbread-like pastry known as Läckerli Huus. Afterward, visit the enchanting Basel Christmas Market, along with some free time for lunch at your leisure. The group will then continue to Lucerne for a two-night stay in this lovely city. B, D
DAY 7: MOUNT PILATUS/SWISS FONDUE DINNER
Witness the breathtaking beauty of the Swiss Alps with a trip to Mount Pilatus. Ride the gondola and aerial cableway from Kriens to the summit, taking in panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and alpine landscapes along the way. At the top, savor a delicious lunch complete with traditional Swiss flavors and stunning scenery. After returning to Lucerne, spend a leisurely afternoon exploring the city and the Christmas Market, located just a short walk from our hotel. In the evening, delight in a cozy Swiss fondue dinner featuring a three-course menu at a local restaurant: the perfect end to a day filled with alpine adventure and cultural flavor. B, L, D
DAY 8: LUGANO/COMO
Begin your day with a guided tour of Lugano, a picturesque Swiss town nestled between mountains and lake known for its charming streets and stunning lakeside views. Continue to the exquisite city of Como, where you’ll uncover its rich history, impressive architecture, and scenic waterfront. After the tour, enjoy free time wandering through Como’s joyous Christmas Market, filled with seasonal treats, local crafts, and holiday cheer before continuing to Milan. B, D
DAY 9: MILAN
Relish a captivating day in Milan beginning with a guided city tour where you’ll explore the city’s rich history, elegant architecture, and iconic landmarks. Then, delve deeper into one of Milan’s crown jewels with a guided tour of the magnificent Cathedral and its stunning rooftop terraces. Marvel at the intricate gothic details and take in panoramic views of the city from above. Afterward, have fun exploring Milan at your own pace during free time — whether shopping along the fashionable Via Montenapoleone, sipping espresso at a café, or visiting one of the city’s world-class museums. Conclude the day with a farewell dinner together. B, D
DAY 10: FAREWELL
After breakfast, we head to the airport for our included flight home. We are sure that you will depart with long-lasting memories of our travels amongst the most festive Christmas Markets in the world! B
Quality Accommodations:
Nights 2-5: MS Amadeus Riva
Nights 6-7: Hotel Astoria, Lucerne, Switzerland
Nights 8-9: UNA Hotels Scandinavia, Milan, Italy
Dates:
Dec 6-15, 2026
Price Per Person:
See table below
Land only pricing available
Pre/Post Hotel:
$259 per night
Depart/Return:
Chicago, IL
Inclusions:
Round-trip airfare from the U.S.
Professional, English speaking Tour Director
Welcome Dinner and meals as indicated (B=breakfast, L=lunch, D=dinner)
Fees and tips for included attractions, meals, crew, and drivers
Luggage handling at most hotels
24-hour emergency call service
Pricing Table:
Arrival Time
Available about 90 days prior to departure.
Departure Time
Available about 90 days prior to departure.
Airport Transportation / Vehicle Parking
Our pre and post hotel offers complimentary shuttle service to and from the airport. Free parking can be offered during the tour with a pre or post night booked. Please let us know ahead of time if you desire this service.
Walking Distance
To fully enjoy your vacation, you should be in good physical health and understand there are times when a good deal of walking is involved in our tours. Those who have difficulty walking may not want to take this trip or should discuss their personal situation with their doctor before deciding. You should be able to walk at a steady pace up to a mile at a time for a daily total of three to four miles per day and be able to manage steps to board/de-board the motorcoach several times a day. In addition, many US and European airports require lengthy walks to get from ticketing counters to your departure gate and moveable walkways are not common throughout European Airports as they are in the United States.
Due to the lack of proper facilities at some of the farms, ranches, and off-the-beaten-path sites we often visit, we are unable to accommodate walkers and wheelchairs.
We are finding that larger European cities are closing their historic districts to motor traffic. This, of course, adds to the amount of walking involved when visiting a city (sometimes on uneven and/or cobblestone walkways). In addition, please know you may be expected to exit the motorcoach at each stop because local law requires mandatory motorcoach driver breaks.
Average Temps
High of 45°F, low of 20°F
Currency
Euro
Time Zone
GMT+2
Hotel Amenities
All AMADEUS ships have an elevator that operates between the Mozart, Strauss and Haydn decks. The sun deck is not accessible by elevator.
Wi-Fi is available aboard the ship and the price is fully covered by CTD. We will travel in rural river landscapes, meaning the Wi-Fi connection at times can be limited.
All cabins and suites are equipped with high-quality care products, such as soap, shampoo, body lotion, and shower gel. You will also find a hair dryer in your cabin. Laundry is available onboard for a small fee.
Breakfast and lunch are lavish meals, with evenings featuring chef’s specialties and regional dishes. In addition, a light breakfast and lunch are offered in the Panorama-Bar. There is always a vegetarian option for all meals on board.
Hotels during the land portion of the tour are equipped with a safe, Wi-Fi, hair dryer, and air conditioning. The properties may also feature a fitness center, spa, on-site restaurant, lounge, or have laundry services available.
Additional Information
A total of three mailings are sent to assist you in preparing for your tour, including information sent upon receipt of your reservation.
Dress on tour is casual. Evening dinners aboard the ship will be a more elegant occasion, so we welcome you to dress in a business casual manner. Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat, visors, and comfortable walking shoes will add to your enjoyment of this tour. Toward the end of the cruise, a Captain’s Dinner will be held. For this dinner, we suggest (for the women) dress pants or skirt along with a blouse or sweater, or possibly a dress, and (for the men) dress pants along with a collared long-sleeved shirt or sweater, and possibly a blazer of some sort (blazer not required).
An outlet converter that adapts to European outlets is needed. You can find these at many stores, including Amazon and Walmart.
A valid U.S. Passport is required for travel to/from the United States.
Travel Protection Available?
Yes, see CountryTravelDiscoveries.com/TravelProtectionPlan.
