Christmas River Cruise Rhine | Weave Thousand Journeys

the famous idyllic Christmas Market in Wernigerode,Harz Mountains,Germany.jpg

River Cruise Specialists: Christmas Markets 2026 - 10 Cabins Left

Festive Cheer From Luzern to Dusseldorf
A Holiday River Cruise to Dazzle Your Senses!

OPTIONAL ADD-ON - 2N Pre-Cruise Land Package in Luzern, Switzerland Begins on Dec 5, 2026

Cruise Begins in Basel, Switzerland on Dec 7, 2026 and Ends in Dusseldorf, Germany on Dec 13, 2026

Step into a storybook Christmas as you cruise through Europe’s most magical holiday cities. From the iconic Christmas markets beneath the towering Cologne Cathedral to the twinkling stalls of Mannheim and the peaceful charm of Kehl, this festive journey is filled with wonder at every turn.

Breathe in the crisp scent of pine and spiced Glühwein as you stroll through centuries-old squares aglow with fairy lights. In Köln, lose yourself in the magic of handcrafted ornaments, carolers’ songs, and the joy of traditional German treats like stollen and Lebkuchen. Mannheim offers a vibrant yet cozy atmosphere with its melodious Christmas markets, while Kehl, just across the river from Strasbourg, invites you to slow down and savor the quieter beauty of the season.

Whether it’s your first European Christmas or your fifth, this cruise offers an unforgettable blend of festive cheer, cultural charm, and curated luxury.

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Rhine River Cruise - Christmas 2026
Luxury, redefined on Europe’s Rivers

At Weave a Thousand Journeys, we don’t settle for ordinary — and neither should you. That’s why we’ve partnered with Riverside Luxury Cruises, a river cruise line that’s rewriting the rules of five-star travel on Europe’s waterways.

From the moment Devaki stepped aboard a Riverside Luxury Cruises ship in Vienna, she knew: it was something special. A family-led passion project by the Gerlach siblings, Riverside is the new name in river cruising — but already leagues ahead of the old guard. With accolades like Travel + Leisure’s World’s Best Awards (2024), FORBES’ Best European River Cruise for Foodies, and Best Luxury Cruise Line in Europe (2025), their commitment to elegance, authenticity, and innovation is undeniable.

Expect refined butler service, exquisite gastronomy, and a relaxed sophistication that elevates every moment onboard.

We’ve reserved just 14 cabins for this special sailing — an intimate group experience designed for travelers who value connection, care, and curated detail. No crowds. No rush. Just the joy of discovery shared with a like-minded community.

If you’re ready for a one-of-a-kind luxury journey that feels deeply personal and truly unforgettable, this is your invitation. We can’t wait to welcome you aboard.

Explore the destinations

WHAT'S THE ROUTE?

We board the cruise ship in Basel, Switzerland and disembark in Dusseldorf, Germany.

Over seven unforgettable days, we’ll explore unique Christmas markets at your own pace—sipping on authentic Glühwein, savoring scrumptious local holiday treats, and discovering handcrafted treasures that capture the spirit of the season.

Our journey begins in Basel, the festive crossroads where Switzerland, Germany, and France converge in joyful celebration. Our journey ends in Dusseldorf but before that we’ll glide into Germany’s heart, visiting captivating cities like:

Kehl — a fascinating town with a rich history of French and German heritage spanning a thousand years, perfect for soaking up holiday charm.
Mannheim — home to one of the world’s largest and most stunning palace complexes, a magnificent backdrop for winter exploration.
Frankfurt am Main — Germany’s vibrant financial center buzzing with festive energy and modern delights.
Bonn — the former capital city, steeped in history and seasonal cheer.
Cologne (Köln) — famous for its towering Christmas tree and the iconic twin-spired cathedral standing majestically in Old Town.

And that’s just the beginning of an extraordinary celebration along Europe’s legendary river.

This is more than a trip — it’s a very special one.

Route image

DEC 5 & 6 (2N) | PRE-TOUR IN LUZERN, SWITZERLAND

Dec 5 | Chocolate Tasting & Dinner:
Arrive in Zurich and be whisked away by our limousine service to the Exquisite Flagship hotel, MANDARIN ORIENTAL in Luzern (Superior rooms, city views with breakfast).

This iconic Belle Époque landmark, offers a premier luxury experience with stunning Lakefront views of the Swiss Alps, and unforgettable outdoor adventures. Just the perfect start to our exquisite river cruise!

Chocolate Tasting at the Local Atelier before dinner. Welcome dinner at a traditional Swiss restaurant serving classics like table side Weiner Schnitzel, creamed spinach and shrimp cocktail.

Overnight at the Mandarin Oriental, Luzern.

Dec 6 | Breakfast & Lunch:

There is nothing more beautiful than the Bernese Oberland! In A/C vehicles with our driver and Guides we will head on a full-day tour to some of the most exquisite and scenic locations in Switzerland from Bern to Lauterbrunnen. Dinner on our own this evening.

Overnight at the Mandarin Oriental, Luzern.

Dec 7 | Breakfast:

Free day to explore Luzern on our own. Transfers from the Hotel in Luzern to Basel for embarkation on our river cruise ship.

DEC 7, 2026 | BASEL, SWITZERLAND
Embarkation : 4:00 PM

We set sail at 10:00 PM.

Basel is a picturesque Swiss city located at the intersection of the Rhine river and the borders of Switzerland, Germany, and France. The city dates back to the Roman era, but it was during the Middle Ages that Basel became an important cultural and commercial center. The city was also an important center for the printing industry during the 15th century, and it was in Basel that the first printed book in the world was published.

Today, Basel is known for its world-renowned pharmaceutical industry, as well as its thriving art scene, with several world-class museums and galleries.

The city is also home to a number of historic landmarks, including the impressive Basel Minster, a 13th-century cathedral with stunning Gothic architecture. Basel is also famous for its Carnival celebrations, which take place every year in February, and attract thousands of visitors from all over the world.

DEC 8, 2026 | KEHL
In Port: 2:00 PM - 10:00 PM

Kehl has a rich history that spans over several centuries. The city was founded in the 12th century, and it served as a strategic location for trade between France and Germany.

Over the years, Kehl has been part of various territories, including the Duchy of Württemberg, the Margraviate of Baden, and the French Empire. During the Napoleonic Wars, Kehl was the site of several battles, and it was occupied by French troops for many years.

In the 19th century, Kehl became an important railway hub, and it played a crucial role in the industrialization of the region. In the 20th century, Kehl was heavily damaged during World War II, and it took many years to rebuild the city. Today, Kehl is a vibrant city that combines its rich history with modern lifestyle.

The Kehl Canal, also known as the Grand Canal d'Alsace, is an important waterway that connects the Rhine River to the Rhone River. The canal was constructed in the mid-20th century to improve navigation and transport between the two rivers.

The Kehl Canal is approximately 50 kilometers long, and it passes through several locks, tunnels, and aqueducts. The construction of the Kehl Canal was a significant engineering achievement.

DEC 9, 2026 | MANNHEIM
In Port: 10:00 AM - 10:30 PM

Mannheim is a modern city located in the southwestern part of Germany. It is known for its stunning architecture, rich cultural heritage, and scenic location along the Rhine River.

Visitors can explore the city's many landmarks, such as the Mannheim Palace, the Luisenpark, and the Mannheimer Wasserturm.

The city is also home to several museums and galleries, such as the Kunsthalle Mannheim, which features modern and contemporary art, and the Reiss-Engelhorn-Museen, which showcase the region's history and culture. And for those who love shopping, Mannheim is famous for its many boutiques and department stores.

DEC 10, 2026 | FRANKFURT
In Port: 07:00 AM - 11:30 PM

The history of Frankfurt am Main dates back over 2,000 years, when the Romans established a military camp at the site. Over time, the city grew into an important commercial center, with trade routes connecting it to other major European cities.

In the Middle Ages, Frankfurt became a free imperial city. During the Renaissance, Frankfurt played a significant role in the development of the printing press and the spread of the Reformation. It became an important center of learning, with the establishment of the University of Frankfurt in the 18th century.

In the 19th and 20th centuries, Frankfurt experienced significant upheaval, including the devastation of World War II. The city was heavily bombed, leading to the loss of much of its historic architecture. However, Frankfurt was rebuilt quickly and emerged as a major hub of commerce and finance in the post-war era, with the establishment of the European Central Bank and other important financial institutions.

The River Main is a significant feature of Frankfurt's geography and history. It runs through the center of the city, dividing it into two halves - the north and the south. The river has been an essential part of Frankfurt's development, as it provided a means of transportation for goods and people, and served as a source of water for drinking and other purposes.

DEC 11, 2026 | MAINZ
In Port: 06:00 AM - 4:00 PM

Mainz is a historic city located in southwestern Germany, situated on the banks of the Rhine River. The city is famous for its association with the printing press, which was invented by Johannes Gutenberg in the mid-15th century. Gutenberg was born in Mainz and it was here that he developed his revolutionary printing technique, which used moveable type to produce books and other printed materials.

The printing press had a profound impact on the spread of knowledge and information throughout Europe, allowing for the mass production of books and other materials for the first time. Gutenberg's invention is widely regarded as one of the most important developments in the history of human communication, and it cemented Mainz's reputation as a center of intellectual and cultural innovation.

Today, Mainz is a vibrant city with a rich cultural heritage. Visitors to the city can explore numerous museums and galleries, including the Gutenberg Museum, which houses one of the world's largest collections of books and printing materials.

DEC 12, 2026 | BONN
In Port: 01:30 AM - 1:30 PM

Bonn is a city in western Germany with a fascinating historical legacy that dates back to Roman times. However, perhaps its most significant historical feature is that it was once the capital of West Germany, serving as the seat of government from 1949 until reunification in 1990. During this period,

Bonn was transformed into a modern, cosmopolitan city, with sleek new government buildings, bustling shopping districts, and a thriving cultural scene. Despite this, the city has managed to preserve much of its historic charm and character, with winding cobbled streets, charming old buildings, and centuries-old churches and cathedrals.

Notable landmarks include the Beethoven-Haus, the birthplace of the famous composer Ludwig van Beethoven, and the Poppelsdorf Palace, a grand 18th-century estate that now houses the University of Bonn's Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences.

DEC 12, 2026 | COLOGNE
In Port: 4:00 PM - 11:30 PM

Köln, also known as Cologne in English, is the fourth largest city in Germany with a population of over one million people. The history of Köln dates back over 2,000 years to the Roman Empire when it was known as Colonia Claudia Ara Agrippinensium.

It was founded in the year 50 AD by the Roman general Agrippa, and was named in honor of Emperor Claudius. It quickly became an important center of trade and commerce due to its strategic location on the Rhine River.

Throughout the Middle Ages, Köln continued to thrive as a major trading center and was a key player in the Hanseatic League. It was also a center of art and learning, with the famous theologian and philosopher Thomas Aquinas studying at the University of Köln in the 13th century.

During the 16th and 17th centuries, Köln was hit hard by wars and plagues, but managed to recover and continue to grow. In the 19th century, it became a major industrial center and played a key role in the development of Germany's chemical industry.

Unfortunately, Köln suffered extensive damage during World War II, with nearly 90% of the city center destroyed. However, much of the historic architecture and cultural heritage was rebuilt and restored in the post-war period, including the famous Köln Cathedral, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

DEC 13, 2026 | DUSSELDORF
8:00 AM | Disembark after Breakfast

Düsseldorf is a vibrant and modern city located in western Germany. It is known for its art and culture, its lively nightlife, and its stunning architecture. Visitors can explore the historic Old Town, which features many well-preserved buildings from the Middle Ages, such as the St. Lambertus Church and the Schlossturm.

The city is also home to numerous museums and galleries, including the Kunstsammlung Nordrhein-Westfalen, which houses an impressive collection of modern and contemporary art. And for those who love shopping, Düsseldorf is a paradise, with numerous high-end boutiques and designer stores.

Keep in Mind: This itinerary is the current plan but is ever evolving and things may change. We will make every effort to provide the tours and experiences that are described above.

All images sourced with permission from Riverside cruises and purchased on Shutterstock.

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PROMOTION! Book By August 1, 2025 and Get USD 250 off per Cabin.

Christmas markets

Here's a little festive tour of the Christmas markets in each destination en-route:

Basel, Switzerland

The Christmas market sweeps through the Old Town with enchanting lights.. Unique touch: Artisan crafts from local Swiss makers.

Must-try: Swiss raclette and mulled wine.

Kehl, Germany

Cozy market with a stunning view overlooking Strasbourg across the Rhine.

Perfect for quiet strolls and intimate shopping for handcrafted gifts.

Mannheim, Germany

A lively market famed for its carousel and ice skating rink.

Frankfurt, Germany

One of Germany's larger markets with a mix of historic and modern stalls. Indulge in 'Bethmännchen' marzipan sweets and hearty sausages.

Mainz, Germany

Dive into the Romanesque charm with stalls set against the Mainz Cathedral. Sample local wines and Christmas punch.

Bonn, Germany

The market's blend of fairy lights and historical surroundings creates a cozy festive vibe. Don't miss the artisan stalls with regional crafts.

Köln (Cologne), Germany

Famous for its stunning cathedral backdrop and diverse markets scattered around the city.

Try the Glühwein (mulled wine) with a shot of rum or amaretto!

All these Christmas markets deliver a unique blend of scents, sights, sounds, and tastes — perfect for creating memory-filled holiday journeys!

About the Excursions

The festive season makes every trip extra special, and our 2026 river cruise from Basel to Düsseldorf is no exception.

We have some amazing shore excursions on the menu for some of our destinations on this holiday cruise —think twinkling Christmas markets, cozy sips of Glühwein, historic towns full of stories, and delicious local tastings.

Here's the thing - YOU get to choose the excursions YOU WANT! Whether you want one that is CULTURE-LEARN-SEE or LEARN-SEE-TASTE there's one that is just right and waiting for you!

Full transparency, all excursions are locked in 90 days before sailing, so some of these may be subject to some tweaks. Also, keep in mind that warm weather sailings typically offer more excursions per day – the Christmas Market sailings tend to focus on letting guests enjoy the Markets and explore each town we visit.

ALL excursions are INCLUDED in our cruise packages on offer so all you have to do is do the picking and choosing. And you get to decide the perfect balance of activity and relaxation so each day is tailored the way you want it!

Whether you love history, wine, or just soaking up the holiday spirit, these experiences are made to spark your curiosity and make your journey unforgettable!

Featured excursions spotlight

KEHL | Charms of Obernai with Alsatian Wine Tasting
Duration: 4h | Difficulty: Moderate
Travel the Alsace Wine Route and savor local wines at a family-run winery. Stroll through Obernai’s enchanting cobblestone streets, lined with 13th-century half-timbered houses. You’ll have time for shopping or a cozy café visit.

Discover Heidelberg at Christmas with Christkindlmarkt
Duration: 6h | Difficulty: Easy
Explore Heidelberg’s majestic castle, Old Bridge, and bustling Christmas Market, brimming with festive aromas of gingerbread, sausages, and mulled wine. Don’t miss the chance to keep a commemorative mug as a souvenir!

Bertha Benz & The City of Inventions
Duration: 2h | Difficulty: Easy
Dive into Mannheim’s inventive past and meet Bertha Benz, a pioneering woman who helped launch the automobile age. Learn about fascinating inventions and visit the stunning Electoral Palatinate Mile of Innovation.

Mannheim at Christmas with City & Palace Tour
Duration: 3h | Difficulty: Moderate
Stroll Mannheim’s grid-patterned city centre, see the famous water tower, visit Mannheim Palace, and soak in the festive Friedrichsplatz Christmas market atmosphere.

Bonn Through the Centuries Christmas Walk
Duration: 3h | Difficulty: Easy
Step back in time to explore Roman roots, Beethoven’s birthplace, the rococo Town Hall, and the festive Christkindlmarkt.

Eternal Bonn with Christmas Market
Duration: 3h | Difficulty: Moderate
Enjoy a panoramic coach tour of Bonn’s highlights, then mingle with locals amid the vibrant Christmas market filled with traditional treats.

Cologne at Christmastime
Duration: 2.5h | Difficulty: Easy
Walk the historic streets, visit the awe-inspiring Gothic cathedral, and revel in the spirit of Cologne’s extensive Christmas markets with over 100 festive stands.

Exquisite gastronomy

The chefs will spoil you from breakfast to dinner – they prepare everything themselves, with regional, fresh products.

You will experience dreamlike landscapes and special cities, and at the same time the chefs will tailor their creations to the regions through which the ship is currently sailing.

The same goes for wine. Here’s to life, and all the pleasure it brings!

Beautiful surroundings - exquisite meals

On the Riverside Debussy, you have the choice between different culinary concepts.

BISTRO: When the smell of freshly brewed coffee and tempting pastries hits your nose, you can enjoy a wonderful breakfast even if you are a late riser.

VISTA UPPER DECK: This deck is a bar and barbecue and another highlight on the Riverside Debussy. How about eating freshly grilled scampi for lunch, drinking a glass of Riesling from the region and letting the UNESCO-protected, romantic landscape between Bingen and Bacharach pass by?

Fine Dining WATERSIDE RESTAURANT: It is a gourmet island with a buffet at lunchtime and a Michelin star-level, fine-dining world in the evening.

Exclusive evenings at VINTAGE ROOM: Special occasions need a special place: a room for small group dinners for up to 10 people.

So much style: Cabinets set in gold to temper the wines already reveal that only the very best is served here, finely tuned to each individual course.

Let's talk service

The crew to guest ratio is 2 crew for every 4 guests! The industry standard in the luxury space is 2 crew for every 5-6 guests.

PERSONALIZED BUTLER SERVICE:

Every guest will receive butler service with personalized attention and assistance. This includes room service, packing and unpacking luggage, and helping with reservations for onboard amenities and shore excursions. Butlers also handle deliveries and provide recommendations.

Our butler will be in direct communication with every guest (via WhatsApp),and takes care of any request. Perhaps you want an appointment at the spa or reserve a table at the restaurant, simply let your personal Butler know and relax.

Butlers can handle laundry and pressing services, as well as shoe-shining, at an additional cost.

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Set sail on a journey unlike any other.
Book your FREE 30-minute Consultation Call!

PROMOTION! Book By August 1, 2025 and Get USD 250 off per Cabin.

Your cabins choices - exquisite accommodations

DEBUSSY SUITE

Inclusions

2N pre-cruise tour in Luzern, 5-star luxury accommodations at the Mandarin Oriental, Luzern.

Luxurious Comforts:

Enjoy the largest average suite size on European rivers.

Butler service personalized for each of our guests in every suite category.

King beds in every suite.

Premium All-inclusive Dining:

24-hour room service.

Gourmet cuisine prepared a la minute.

Pop-up bar and grill on the Vista deck.

Meals of your choice in all restaurants and bars.

Specialty fine-dining.

Cakes, waffles and ice cream at your beck and call.

Premium All-inclusive Beverages:

Premium level beverage package that includes: Premium wine, Cocktails, Spirits and French Champagne.

Minibar.

All Excursions Included with Storytellers and Subject Matter Experts:

A variation of excursions can be booked according to personal interest and preference. From those passionate about architecture and design, art and cuisine, history and nature - choose an excursion that is a perfect fit for you!

Other important matters:

Free WIFI.

Airport transfers from nearest major airports.

VAT and all other fees.

ZOOM Meet-ups with the Group prior to departure.

The itinerary is in real-time on your smartphones and devices on the travel app. Hauling paper copies around is the thing of the past!

WEBINARS with the CEO and Business Development Managers of Riverside Cruises and Devaki of Weave A Thousand Journeys.

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Set sail on a journey unlike any other.
Book your FREE 30-minute Consultation Call!

Book a call

WhatsApp inquiry

PROMOTION! Book By August 1, 2025 and Get USD 250 off per Cabin.

Festive Cheer From Luzern to Dusseldorf
LIMITED TO 14 CABINS ONLY
A Holiday River Cruise to Dazzle Your Senses!

RIVERSIDE SUITE

USD 7488 per person

Double Occupancy

SEAHORSE SUITE

USD 6992 per person

Double Occupancy

SYMPHONY SUITE

USD 9968

Recommended for our Solo Travelers

PRE-TOUR LAND PACKAGE ADD-ON

USD 2398 per person

Double Occupancy

PRE-TOUR LAND PACKAGE ADD-ON

USD 3282 per person

Single Occupancy

PROMOTION! Book By August 1, 2025 and Get USD 250 off per Cabin.

Would you like a price for the Owners Suite or the Debussy Suite? Prices Begins at USD 16,000 per person. Double Occupancy.

Email inquiry

"We loved working with Dev and her team. Everything was planned perfectly and the itinerary was wonderful!! The guides she used, Fernando and Chris, were so enjoyable and informative. We enjoyed our days with them so much!! We had a few small things come up while we were on the trip and Anna took care of those immediately. We felt very well taken care of!! We would definitely recommend traveling with Weave A Thousand Journeys and we will again!!"

Christy & Bill V, Indiana

Weave a Thousand Journeys has been featured in:

The Common Pieces Of Travel Advice You Should Actually Ignore

Set sail on a journey unlike any other.
Book your FREE 30-minute Consultation Call!

Book a call

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River Cruise Specialists: Christmas Markets 2026 - 10 Cabins Left

Festive Cheer From Luzern to Dusseldorf A Holiday River Cruise to Dazzle Your Senses!

Expertise matters. Curated luxury travel.

Set sail on a journey unlike any other. Book your FREE 30-minute Consultation Call!

Rhine River Cruise - Christmas 2026 Luxury, redefined on Europe’s Rivers

Explore the destinations

WHAT'S THE ROUTE?

Set sail on a journey unlike any other. Book your FREE 30-minute Consultation Call!

Christmas markets

About the Excursions

Featured excursions spotlight

Exquisite gastronomy

Beautiful surroundings - exquisite meals

Let's talk service

Set sail on a journey unlike any other. Book your FREE 30-minute Consultation Call!

Your cabins choices - exquisite accommodations

Inclusions

Set sail on a journey unlike any other. Book your FREE 30-minute Consultation Call!

Festive Cheer From Luzern to Dusseldorf LIMITED TO 14 CABINS ONLY A Holiday River Cruise to Dazzle Your Senses!

RIVERSIDE SUITE

SEAHORSE SUITE

SYMPHONY SUITE

PRE-TOUR LAND PACKAGE ADD-ON

PRE-TOUR LAND PACKAGE ADD-ON

Weave a Thousand Journeys has been featured in:

Set sail on a journey unlike any other. Book your FREE 30-minute Consultation Call!

Festive Cheer From Luzern to Dusseldorf
A Holiday River Cruise to Dazzle Your Senses!

Expertise matters.
Curated luxury travel.

Set sail on a journey unlike any other.
Book your FREE 30-minute Consultation Call!

Rhine River Cruise - Christmas 2026
Luxury, redefined on Europe’s Rivers

Set sail on a journey unlike any other.
Book your FREE 30-minute Consultation Call!

Set sail on a journey unlike any other.
Book your FREE 30-minute Consultation Call!

Set sail on a journey unlike any other.
Book your FREE 30-minute Consultation Call!

Festive Cheer From Luzern to Dusseldorf
LIMITED TO 14 CABINS ONLY
A Holiday River Cruise to Dazzle Your Senses!

Set sail on a journey unlike any other.
Book your FREE 30-minute Consultation Call!