The Christmas Cruise - Basel to Amsterdam

Step into a storybook winter wonderland in Basel, where centuries of romance and festive holiday magic flow as gracefully as the Rhine itself. Known in antiquity as Basilia, this enchanting city comes alive in winter as its medieval cobblestone avenues and historic plazas glow under thousands of sparkling lights. Wander through the festively decorated Old Town, pausing at Münsterplatz and Barfüsserplatz—home to one of Switzerland’s largest and most atmospheric Christmas markets.

Explore charming wooden chalets overflowing with hand-carved wooden toys, delicate glass ornaments, and traditional Swiss crafts. The irresistible aromas of freshly baked Magenbrot gingerbread, roasted chestnuts, and bubbling Swiss raclette fill the crisp winter air. After ascending the cathedral towers for a sweeping view over the glowing city and twinkling riverbanks, step aboard the eco-luxury Century Star starting at 1:00 PM. Gather for a warm welcome cocktail and an exquisite welcome dinner, celebrating the start of your festive voyage down the Rhine toward Amsterdam.

Begin your morning immersed in Basel’s enchanting holiday atmosphere as gentle sunlight illuminates the snow-dusted gables of the Old Town. Join your expert guide for a curated morning walk through winding streets toward the festively decorated Marktplatz, where the historic, red-sandstone Town Hall stands framed by sparkling Christmas trees and colorful holiday stalls.

Browse quaint artisanal shops and market booths for local delicacies, from traditional Basler Läckerli gingerbread cookies to handcrafted Swiss textiles. Stop at a cozy outdoor market café to warm your hands with a steaming cup of spice-infused Glühwein or rich hot chocolate while soaking in the cheerful sounds of seasonal carols.

After a delightful morning exploring Basel’s winter traditions, return to the vessel for a relaxing afternoon on deck or in the panoramic lounge as the ship prepares to sail. As twilight settles over the water, gather in the dining room for a chef-prepared dinner, watching the glowing Swiss skyline fade gently into the distance as your festive journey down the Rhine begins.

Discover Strasbourg, the self-proclaimed “Capital of Christmas” (Capitale de Noël), where French romance and Alsatian holiday traditions create an unforgettable winter spectacle. Today, this UNESCO World Heritage treasure transforms into a festive paradise, anchored by the legendary Christkindelsmärik—one of Europe’s oldest and most prestigious holiday markets, dating back to 1570.

Embark on a guided stroll through fairytale streets decorated with millions of twinkling lights and elaborate bough decorations. Marvel at the soaring, 100-foot natural Christmas tree at Place Kléber, then wander toward the magnificent Gothic Strasbourg Cathedral. Among the timber-framed stalls of Petite France, discover handcrafted Alsatian pottery, blown-glass ornaments, and intricate wooden nativity scenes.

Indulge in local holiday delicacies, savoring hot spiced wine infused with star anise and orange, alongside warm flammekueche (savory flatbread) and rich Alsatian bredle Christmas biscuits. Return to the Century Star as evening settles over the illuminated canals, ready to set sail for Germany.

Awaken in Speyer, where centuries of imperial grandeur blend seamlessly with classic German Weihnachtsmarkt charm. Step ashore for a guided walk anchored by the magnificent Speyer Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage site standing proudly over streets dressed in holiday greenery. Stroll through the romantic Christmas market set before the historic Altpörtel (Old Gate), browsing rustic wooden huts offering handmade pewter decorations, woolen knitwear, and delicate beeswax candles. Savor the inviting aromas of sizzling bratwurst, warm roasted almonds, and sweet Dampfnudeln (steamed dessert dumplings with vanilla sauce).

Continue toward nearby Mannheim, where the holiday spirit centers around the city’s historic Water Tower (Wasserturm). Stroll through one of the region’s most expansive Christmas markets, taking in the nostalgic carousel, handcrafted glass art, and festive regional delicacies.

After an afternoon immersing yourself in authentic holiday cheer and cozy gift shopping, return to the comforting luxury of the Century Star by 3:30 PM to relax, unwind, and enjoy a fine seasonal dinner as you sail toward Koblenz.

Awaken in historic Koblenz, where the Rhine and Moselle rivers meet at the famous Deutsches Eck. Explore picturesque plazas transformed into cozy winter markets, gazing up at the hilltop Ehrenbreitstein Fortress before retreating to the sun deck of the Century Star for an unforgettable afternoon sailing through the snowy cliffs and dramatic castles of the UNESCO-listed Rhine Gorge.

Sail past the legendary Loreley Rock before arriving in the famed winemaking village of Rüdesheim. Step ashore to experience the world-renowned “Christmas Market of the Nations,” where over 120 festive stalls represent holiday traditions from across six continents. Wander down the narrow, cobblestone Drosselgasse, lined with glowing lanterns, wine taverns, and specialty holiday shops selling wooden nutcrackers, German cuckoo clocks, and handcrafted holiday ornaments.

Pause at a local café to savor a traditional Rüdesheimer Kaffee—a warming concoction of rich coffee, flambéed Asbach brandy, and fresh whipped cream—or sample sweet, spiced Glühwein. Return to the ship for an exquisite chef-prepared dinner as twilight softly envelops the Rhine Valley.

Arrive in vibrant Cologne, home to some of Germany’s most magnificent and celebrated Christmas markets. Begin your morning with a scenic coach ride to Königswinter, where the historic Drachenfelsbahn cog railway transports you up Drachenfels hill to step into the fairytale winter landscape of Drachenburg Palace.

Afterward, return to Cologne to experience the magical Christmas Market situated beneath the towering, Gothic spires of the Cologne Cathedral (Kölner Dom). Centered around a massive, brightly lit Christmas tree, over 150 pavilion stalls offer an array of artisan treasures, from hand-blown glass decorations and carved wooden toys to local pewter crafts.

Stroll through the charming Old Town (Altstadt) to visit the whimsical Heimat der Heinzel market at Alter Markt, themed after local folklore elves. Treat yourself to warm, crispy Reibekuchen (potato pancakes with applesauce), rich German gingerbread (Lebkuchen), and a steaming mug of hot mulled wine served in collectible ceramic boots. Reboard the Century Star as evening falls to relax and enjoy a festive gourmet dinner.

Arrive in enchanting Amsterdam, where golden-age canals and historic gabled merchant houses are transformed by the warm glow of the annual Amsterdam Light Festival. This vibrant Dutch capital offers a uniquely charming, European winter atmosphere, blending romantic waterways with cozy festive traditions.

Set out with your expert guide on a scenic stroll toward the canal boat embarkation point, stepping aboard a glass-topped cruiser to glide through the UNESCO-listed canal ring. View the city’s historic bridges and canal houses decorated with dazzling light installations designed by international artists.

Afterward, wander through quaint winter boutique markets and seasonal pop-up shops along the famous Nine Streets (De 9 Straatjes). Shop for unique Delftware ornaments, hand-poured candles, and artisan Dutch crafts. Be sure to pause at a local bakery or street stall to sample hot stroopwafels pressed fresh before you, alongside warm stroopwafel bits and dusted stroopwafel bites or traditional oliebollen (Dutch holiday donuts). Return to the Century Star for a festive farewell dinner with fellow travelers.

Awaken to a serene final morning in Amsterdam as winter light reflects gently across the calm waters of the river. Enjoy a delicious, unhurried breakfast in the elegant dining room of the Century Star, reflecting on a week filled with glittering market squares, storybook castles, and warm holiday traditions shared along the Rhine.

Following breakfast, bid a fond farewell to the captain, crew, and newfound friends who have made your holiday voyage so unforgettable. Complete your disembarkation and step into your comfortable private transfer to Amsterdam Airport Schiphol for your flight home.

As your aircraft ascends over the Dutch countryside, you carry with you not just unique hand-carved keepsakes and festive treasures, but a rich tapestry of unforgettable holiday memories—from the glowing markets of Strasbourg and Cologne to the romantic, candlelit canals of Amsterdam. Safe travels home as your holiday journey comes to a graceful close.