There’s nothing fairly just like the magic of Christmas markets in Europe, and after visiting over 100 Christmas markets throughout Europe in just about EVERY doable means we knew that the very best approach to go was a river cruise.
BUT, there was one downside. All of the river cruises we went on did not go away sufficient time on the vacation spot. And never every thing was included. I felt like I used to be nickeled and dimed as quickly as I stepped on board. So, my husband Michael and I chartered our personal and had two unbelievable weeks in Germany and France!
Once I envisioned internet hosting a Christmas Market Cruise, my dream was to create one thing actually extraordinary—an unforgettable expertise that mixes the magic of Europe’s most lovely Christmas markets with the consolation of luxurious journey and the enjoyment of group. And in 2024, that dream turned a actuality not as soon as, however twice, as we chartered two unbelievable cruises alongside the Rhine River, bringing collectively 168 passionate vacationers every week to expertise the very best of Germany and France through the vacation season.
Right here’s a glance again at our unbelievable journey, the highlights, and what made the 2024 Christmas Market Cruises so particular.
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Why Constitution a Ship?
Through the years, Michael and I’ve traveled to greater than 100 Christmas markets throughout Europe. We’ve explored them by prepare, automobile, and river cruise, and there’s no higher approach to see them than aboard a ship. Why? Since you unpack as soon as and let the magic come to you. No lugging suitcases over cobblestones, no navigating crowded prepare stations, and no stress of planning the place to remain or what to do subsequent.
Chartering the Nicko Spirit allowed us to create a customized itinerary that catered to our group, making certain most time at every vacation spot, an ideal mix of excursions and free time, and a number of choices for exploring iconic markets like Heidelberg, Strasbourg, and Cologne.
The very best half? The ship was completely ours, creating an intimate, welcoming ambiance the place everybody might join, rejoice, and share within the pleasure of the season.
It was an environment in contrast to every other! We had a gaggle the place we might chat earlier than the ship, ask questions, adn get to know eachother. I completely ADORED watching friendships type. Actually it was so particular.
I’ll always remember a girl on the journey telling me, “I can not consider I simply met them, I really feel like I’ve identified them my complete life!”
River Cruise Itinerary: Christmas Market Classics in France and Germany
Cologne
We began our journey in considered one of Germany’s most magical cities through the vacation season: Cologne. Well-known for its towering Gothic cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Website, town supplied an ideal introduction to the Christmas Market expertise. This iconic landmark, as soon as the tallest constructing on the planet, homes the relics of the Three Sensible Males and gives a wide ranging backdrop for the primary market.
However Cologne is extra than simply its cathedral. It’s dwelling to eight distinct Christmas markets, every with its personal distinctive attraction. From the Angel’s Market with its twinkling lights to the maritime-themed market close to the Rhine, there’s one thing right here for everybody. And, in fact, we couldn’t resist having fun with the native Kölsch beer, served in small glasses on the excellent temperature. This cease set the festive tone for the week forward!
Koblenz and Arenfels Citadel
Koblenz, the place the Rhine and Moselle rivers meet, enchanted us with its mix of historic structure and picturesque riverside views. We strolled by means of the outdated city, marveling at landmarks just like the Deutsches Eck (German Nook), the Schängel Fountain, and the Church of Our Girl. The Christmas market right here was intimate and comfortable, providing an opportunity to buy handmade items and sip warming Glühwein.
We might simply stroll on and off the ship to expertise the Christmas markets or seize a bratwurst!
For these looking for a fairy-tale expertise, the non-obligatory tour to Arenfels Citadel was a spotlight. Nestled in scenic vineyards, this neo-Gothic fort dates again to the 1200s and supplied not solely panoramic views of the Rhine Valley but additionally a personal Christmas market on its grounds.
The included tasting of native specialties was the cherry on high of a magical day.
We overnighted right here so you may simply hop on and off the ship to discover extra! And we introduced on our favourite German band to serenade us into the night time!
Rüdesheim and the Rhine Gorge
One in every of my favourite days! Within the morning we cruised after which we had time to see the Christmas market within the day and night time (as we do for all our stops!!!)
As we cruised alongside the Rhine Gorge, we have been handled to breathtaking views of extra castles per mile than anyplace else on the planet. The towering cliffs and centuries-old fortresses have been straight out of a storybook.
Our port metropolis, Rüdesheim, charmed us with its half-timbered homes, cobblestone streets, and festive ambiance. The included strolling tour took us by means of the well-known Drosselgasse, a slim alley lined with quaint outlets and wine taverns- it seems straight out of a film! Then ended on the Mechanical Instrument Museum, the place we marveled at fascinating music-making machines.
We had tons of time within the night to discover the markets!
The non-obligatory tour supplied much more delights: a go to to an area espresso home to strive the famed Rüdesheimer espresso, fortified with Asbach brandy, adopted by a tasting at one of many area’s high wineries. It was an ideal mix of historical past, tradition, and indulgence.
Heidelberg and Mannheim
Heidelberg stole my coronary heart over again. As somebody who lived right here, it’s a metropolis I by no means tire of sharing with others. The romantic fort overlooking the Neckar River, the charming outdated city, and the sprawling Christmas market with over 100 festive stalls made this cease unforgettable. Our strolling tour included highlights just like the world’s largest wine barrel, the fort ruins, and the beautiful views of the valley beneath.
In the meantime, Mannheim supplied a distinction with its Baroque grandeur and distinctive grid format. For individuals who opted for the non-obligatory tour to Dangerous Dürkheim, the in-depth wine tasting showcased the area’s unbelievable varietals, paired with native sausages and glowing wine. YES, we did drink wine at 10 am within the morning and we liked it!!
Strasbourg and the Black Forest
Strasbourg, the self-proclaimed Capital of Christmas, actually lived as much as its title. With its 100-foot Christmas tree, 300+ stalls, and over-the-top vacation decorations, it felt like stepping right into a winter wonderland. Our guided tour included must-see sights just like the Notre Dame Cathedral with its astronomical clock and the picturesque Petite France district, the place half-timbered homes line the canals.
Actually simply questioning the streets is an journey. Nice meals (get the mulled orange wine with honey- it is unbelievable!) and simply get pleasure from. The streets are actually BURSTING.
There are even Baccarat chandeliers. ON THE STREET!
The non-obligatory tour to the Black Forest was equally enchanting. We explored the Vogtsbauernhof Open Air Museum, studying about conventional Schwarzwald tradition, from cuckoo clocks to folks costumes, and loved a slice of the well-known Black Forest cake.
The cease in Gengenbach, dwelling to the world’s largest Creation calendar, added a magical of entirety. I additionally notably prefer it as a result of… they’ve BUTTER BEER!
Mainz and Wiesbaden
I feel Mainz market is so underrated. Y’all. I really like Chimney cake nevertheless it’s SO hit and miss. Mainz formally has the very best one I’ve ever tried! The meals in Mainz is UNREAL.
Mainz supplied a captivating mix of historical past and vacation cheer. The hometown of Johannes Gutenberg, inventor of the fashionable printing press, is steeped in significance, and you’ll even go to the Gutenberg Museum to see two of the unique Bibles that revolutionized the world right here! The Christmas market right here, set in opposition to the backdrop of the 1,000-year-old cathedral, felt like stepping right into a fairy story.
Wiesbaden, obtainable as an non-obligatory tour, supplied a extra refined expertise. This spa city, identified for its grand structure and luxurious, dazzled us with its beautiful Christmas market and festive ambiance. The hovering spires and opulent buildings made it a feast for the eyes.
Cologne (Once more!)
Our journey got here full circle as we returned to Cologne. This metropolis, with its unbelievable markets and festive power, was the right place to say goodbye. Whether or not it was exploring the numerous themed markets, having fun with reside music, or indulging in a single final mug of Glühwein, we soaked up each final second of the vacation magic.
We stated “Auf Wiedersehen” with full hearts and recollections that can final a lifetime.
Onboard Expertise: A Floating Christmas Wonderland
Our ship was greater than only a mode of transportation; it was our dwelling for the week and an integral a part of the expertise. In-built 2021, the ship’s fashionable design, panoramic home windows, and splendid facilities made it really feel like a transferring boutique lodge.
- Eating: With three eating places onboard, the meals was nothing wanting distinctive. From informal bites to multi-course meals impressed by native delicacies, each meal was a deal with.
- Drinks: All drinks have been included (sure, even top-shelf alcohol!), which meant we might toast to the season with wine, cocktails, or beers every time we happy.
- Rest: The ship supplied loads of areas to unwind—whether or not it was the solar deck, sauna, or cozy lounge with panoramic views of the Rhine’s castles and cliffs.
A second for the meals. Actually a murals and so tasty! One of many causes we picked this cruise line and ship is it is among the finest meals I’ve ever had!
The onboard gala dinner was one other spotlight. Image this: a superbly adorned eating room, scrumptious meals, festive music, and a room stuffed with laughter and new associates.
The Individuals: The Coronary heart of the Cruise
One of the vital magical components of internet hosting this journey was the unbelievable individuals who joined us. Whether or not touring solo or with a liked one, everybody introduced their very own distinctive story, pleasure, and power to the cruise.
Our company ranged from first-time European vacationers to seasoned market-goers, and by the tip of the week, strangers turned associates. The onboard camaraderie prolonged to excursions, dinners, and even late-night chats within the lounge.
For me, this sense of group was what made the journey actually unforgettable.
I’ve already gotten messages of individuals getting collectively to do meet ups and go to eachother! The friendships which can be made are unbelievable.
Some highlights
I’ll always remember dancing to the band, having our cruise director, Mariia, learn ‘Twas the Night time Earlier than Christmas (I cried!), taking photos by the Christmas tree, the crew dancing with us to Satalana, toasting newly engaged and married {couples}.
We soaked up as a lot Christmas spirit as we presumably might!
There was a Christmas market stall in Rudesheim promoting Amazon returns and… in fact, a few of our group purchased a number of packages. One was security vests- they wore them nightly. One was a banner that we put up.
As I left the ship, I helped take away the banner with the assistance of the crew employees. “Your group was the very best this yr!” he advised me.
I’ve to agree.
Merriment, pleasure, happiness, recollections.
As I look again on the 2024 Christmas Market Cruises, I’m overwhelmed with gratitude—for the superb group of vacationers who joined us, the seamless coordination from our cruise companions, and the magical locations that welcomed us with open arms (and many Glühwein).
These journeys have been extra than simply cruises—they have been celebrations of the season, alternatives to attach with like-minded vacationers, and experiences that reminded us the entire pleasure and magic of Christmas.
Should you missed out on the 2024 cruises, don’t fear—we’re already planning for 2025! With itineraries alongside each the Rhine and Danube Rivers, subsequent yr guarantees to be much more magical. Be sure you keep tuned for updates and reserving info—I’d like to have you ever be part of us!
Should you missed out on the 2024 cruises, don’t fear—we’re already planning for 2025! With itineraries alongside each the Rhine and Danube Rivers, subsequent yr guarantees to be much more magical. Be sure you keep tuned for updates and reserving info—I’d like to have you ever be part of us!