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11 Days Christmas Markets Along the Rhine River Cruise Vacation Package Duration : 11 days / 10 nights Priced From : $2,495 Dates : December   A spirit of celebration defines this wintertime cruise to the famed Christmas markets in lands bordering the romantic Rhine River — Germany, France, and Switzerland. In earlier times, a town’s Christmas market was a major event, offering welcome change of pace from everyday life. Brilliantly painted stalls graced the ancient market squares, and hearty burghers offered a cornucopia of tasty delicacies and colorful wares. Over time, each market became known for its unique historic backdrop and own distinctive character, reflecting local traditions and customs, as well as true holiday spirit. For example, amid Cologne’s wealth of festivities, you’ll find a tempting Museum of Chocolate, fronted by medieval tumblers, craftsmen, and musicians. Strasbourg’s classic Christkindelsmarik — dating from 1570 — beckons locals and visitors alike to experience the heart of the season with its choir and Nativity performances. And, in Basel, the compact warren of booths is chock-full with everything imaginable, from klöpfer (a special sausage) and other savories to handicrafts and holiday decorations. You’ll have plenty of time to explore, browse for one-of-a-kind gifts, and enjoy the enchantment of yesteryear — when “Old World” magic filled the air. Itinerary Day 1 – Depart Home Leave your home city on a flight to Düsseldorf, Germany. Day 2 – Düsseldorf (Embark), Germany Arrive in time for afternoon embarkation of your luxury riverboat, the 98-passenger Sound of Music. Later, enjoy a welcome reception and dinner before joining your onboard river guide for a stroll ashore. At the Christmas market, in the heart of Old Town, holiday treasures — wooden nutcrackers and Bavarian handblown glass — abound, while the aromas of glühwein (mulled wine) and tasty treats tempt you. Day 3 – Cologne, Germany Take in lovely Rhineland panoramas as you cruise to Cologne. With its great Gothic cathedral, Roman ruins, medieval buildings, and world-class museums, it is one of the brightest jewels in Europe’s crown. Discover the main sights on your walking tour, and then delight in free time to explore the festive markets at Roncalliplatz, Alter Markt, Neumarkt, or Rudolfplatz. Later, an onboard children’s choir performance promises to lift your mood. Day 4 – Mainz, Germany Sail the spectacular, 50-mile-long Rhine Gorge and pass the slate crag of Lorelei, rising more than 400 feet from the water; here, listen closely for the song of this mythical river maiden. Later, in Mainz, stroll the Altstadt — overshadowed by its immense red-sandstone cathedral — and stop at the Gutenberg Museum before perusing the town’s centuries-old holiday market amid the glow of twinkling lights. Day 5 – Speyer, Germany Reach Speyer in time for an afternoon tour of this once-hub of the Holy Roman Empire, where eight emperors are buried in the Romanesque cathedral. It was from here that Martin Luther attempted compromise with Rome; Charles V’s refusal and subsequent treatment of Luther soon sparked the Thirty Years’ War and Protestantism. You’ll have time to discover this interesting city and browse its Weihnachtsmarkt to celebrate the season. Day 6 – Speyer (for Heidelberg, Germany) During the Middle Ages, Heidelberg was Germany’s political, intellectual, and cultural center. Today, its red roofs, picturesque squares, and beautiful castle ruins beckon. An all-day excursion reveals the best of romantic Germany, while a stop at Heidelberg’s Kornmarkt unveils the essence of the season — rare herbs, special teas, German delicacies, and traditional gifts. Your cruise continues from Speyer tonight. Day 7 – Greffern (for Baden-Baden/Black Forest), Germany/Strasbourg, France Trek overland to the spa town of Baden-Baden, where the Romans first discovered its healing waters more than two millennia ago. Then continue through the pine-covered highlands of southern Germany’s magnificent Black Forest, abundant with sparkling lakes and Alpine villages. Contrary to popular belief, this is not the impenetrable wilderness so vividly portrayed by the Brothers Grimm. Later, relax topside while cruising to Strasbourg. Day 8 – Strasbourg Because of its historic ambience and cosmopolitan appeal, most visitors hope to return again and again to this Alsatian cultural capital, known especially for its Old Town and Petite France area, which you’ll discover during a canal cruise and tour. Also delight in the 16th-century Christkindelsmarik — one of Europe’s oldest and France’s largest holiday market, where scents of gingerbread and spiced sausage hang in the air. Day 9 – Breisach (for Kaysersberg, France), Germany Arrive in Breisach midday for exploration along France’s Route du Vin en route to Kaysersberg, rich in Christmas spirit. Here, well-preserved medieval houses and Renaissance facades with ornate wood sculptures, balconies, and gables all add to its appeal. During today’s sightseeing, visit the birthplace of Albert Schweitzer, observe a glassblower at his trade, and sample famous Alsatian vintages. Day 10 – Basel, Switzerland First and foremost a Renaissance city, Basel’s intellectual and artistic rebirth was fueled by flourishing river commerce. A morning tour introduces you to the port’s arched stone gateway, Gothic-Romanesque St. Gallus Cathedral, and distinctive beamed houses. Plus, you’ll have ample time to take in the Christmas market revelry before gathering at tonight’s farewell dinner on board the Sound of Music. Day 11 – Basel (Disembark)/Return Home Save time, money and stress! For reservations: Fill out the vacation planner to be contacted by a Europe river cruise vacation specialist. Contact : Travelwizard.com Phone: 1-800-330-8820 or 1-415-446-5252 12/08 |
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