Enchanting Rhine and Yuletide Markets River Cruise - JWT Travel

Enchanting Rhine and Yuletide Markets River Cruise

Special
  • 1 December 2026
  • 4 Nights
  • From 1599 Per Person
  • Dublin
  • MS Riviera Resplendence
Discover the magic of Germany’s traditional Christmas Markets and the stunning beauty of the Rhineland on an enchanting Rhine and Yuletide Markets River Cruise on board the NEW MS Riviera Resplendence.

Departing from Cologne, cruise through the famous Rhine Gorge with the most stunning river views before arriving at the wine town of Rüdesheim, with its crooked houses sloping down from wooded hillsides. At Rüdesheim Christmas Markets, enjoy a slice of gingerbread or a warming cup of the popular Rüdesheim coffee.

As you set sail toward Bonn, you’ll glide past Koblenz, dramatically situated on the confluence of the rivers Rhine and Moselle, with the impressive Ehrenbreitstein fortress towering above.

Next stop is Bonn, known for being the birthplace of Ludwig van Beethoven, before travelling back to Cologne as you explore its seven Christmas markets, including the Cathedral Christmas market, Weihnachtsmarkt am Dom, with more than 160 festive stalls.

MS Riviera Resplendence features all the facilities guests can expect to find in a boutique hotel. With its main restaurant taking fine dining to another level, and two additional, specialty restaurants, which offer a more intimate dining experience with a delicious array of local flavours. The ship also features spa and wellness, swimming pool and more, so guests can enjoy a comfortable and unique experience on board.

Contact your JWT Cruise team for more information and dates on the Enchanting Rhine and Yuletide Markets River Cruise with Riviera Travel.

Enchanting Rhine and Yuletide Markets River Cruise

Discover the magic of Germany’s traditional Christmas Markets and the stunning beauty of the Rhineland on an enchanting Rhine and Yuletide Markets River Cruise on board the NEW MS Riviera Resplendence.

Departing from Cologne, cruise through the famous Rhine Gorge with the most stunning river views before arriving at the wine town of Rüdesheim, with its crooked houses sloping down from wooded hillsides. At Rüdesheim Christmas Markets, enjoy a slice of gingerbread or a warming cup of the popular Rüdesheim coffee.

As you set sail toward Bonn, you’ll glide past Koblenz, dramatically situated on the confluence of the rivers Rhine and Moselle, with the impressive Ehrenbreitstein fortress towering above.

Next stop is Bonn, known for being the birthplace of Ludwig van Beethoven, before travelling back to Cologne as you explore its seven Christmas markets, including the Cathedral Christmas market, Weihnachtsmarkt am Dom, with more than 160 festive stalls.

MS Riviera Resplendence features all the facilities guests can expect to find in a boutique hotel. With its main restaurant taking fine dining to another level, and two additional, specialty restaurants, which offer a more intimate dining experience with a delicious array of local flavours. The ship also features spa and wellness, swimming pool and more, so guests can enjoy a comfortable and unique experience on board.

Contact your JWT Cruise team for more information and dates on the Enchanting Rhine and Yuletide Markets River Cruise with Riviera Travel.

Itinerary

Enchanting Rhine and Yuletide Markets River Cruise

ITINERARY

Day 1 – Arrival in Cologne

Embark onto your five-star ship. On arrival, see your five-star cruise ship moored in historic Cologne, whose skyline is dominated by the spires of its magnificent cathedral. The dedicated English-speaking crew welcomes you on board and helps you to your cabin.

After settling into your spacious and tastefully furnished accommodation, there’s time to familiarise yourself with this splendid ship.

Day 2- Rhine Gorge & Rüdesheim

Sail through the famous Rhine Gorge on our way to Rüdesheim, where you can choose between two afternoon activities.

  • Scenic cruise through the Rhine Gorge
  • Afternoon option 1: Rüdesheim with visit to Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet
  • Afternoon option 2: Rüdesheim with cable car to Niederwald Monument
  • Visit to the Christmas market
  • A live folk music performance on board

Day 3 – Rhine Gorge & Bonn

Cruise through the Rhine Gorge once more, arriving in Bonn for a guided tour. Afterwards explore the festive markets.

  • Rhine Gorge & Bonn details
  • Scenic Cruise through the Rhine Gorge
  • Guided tour of Bonn
  • Visit to the Christmas market
  • Chef’s dinner

Day 4 – Cologne

Sail back to Cologne where we learn more about the old town on a guided walk, then you are free to explore the many Christmas markets.

Day 5 – Return home

It’s time to say goodbye to your crew and start the journey home.

 

  • Return flights from Dublin
  • Full board during your cruise from dinner on your day of arrival until breakfast on your final day
  • Free Superior drinks package
  • Complimentary on-board tea and coffee
  • Complimentary on-board Wi-Fi (connection speeds may vary)
  • All visits and excursions as per itinerary
  • Coach travel
  • Transfers from the airport or station to and from the port of embarkation
  • English-speaking expert guides
  • The services of a Riviera Travel Cruise Director and Concierge

What to see and do?

  • Enjoy visits to four Christmas markets, including Rüdesheim, Koblenz, Bonn and Cologne.
  • Explore Rüdesheim, the quintessential Rhine village with crooked houses sloping down from wooded hillsides.
  • Discover the historic city of Koblenz, dramatically located at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers.
  • Visit the former capital of West Germany and the birthplace of Beethoven, Bonn, then free time in Cologne to explore more than 160 festive stalls at the Cathedral Christmas market.
  • Sample a glass of warming Glühwein sailing through the stunning Rhine Gorge, and enjoy a Rhenish folklore show on board.
  • Subject to availability
  • T&Cs Apply

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