You'll have plenty of time to explore Rüdesheim and Koblenz, and with an optional day trip to Bonn on your journey from Mainz to Cologne, where you'll find quaint festive markets brimming with unique Christmas presents and handmade decorations. In Rüdesheim, there's an optional excursion† to the fascinating Mechanical Music Museum of Siegfried, too.
Set beside the city's magnificent Gothic cathedral, Cologne's main Christmas market is full of festive fun. There are smaller markets to discover, too, such as Cologne Harbour's stalls overlooking the Rhine river. It's a spectacular place to explore.
This four-star ship is one of The River Cruise Line's flagship vessels - featuring an elegant bar, excellent restaurant and comfortable accommodation. All cabins feature air conditioning, private en-suite bathrooms and windows for enjoying those river views. All of your meals are included in the price of this cruise. There's no need to lift a finger - which makes a refreshing change at Christmas!
Welcome to Germany! You'll start your journey in the quaint town of Mainz, known for its medieval markets and half-timbered houses. After settling into your cabin you'll enjoy a relaxing evening on the ship.
After a delicious breakfast onboard you'll have a free morning to explore pretty Mainz. With over 2,000 years of history, the city is full of interesting buildings, ancient cathedrals and museums. Over lunch you'll sail towards Rüdesheim, which is located in the wine-making region of the Rhone. Here you'll have your first taste of German Christmas market.
You'll set off for Koblenz early this morning, an ancient city at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers. It's a spectacular journey today as you'll cruise through the magnificent Rhine Gorge and past the famous Lorelei rock. This afternoon you'll have free time to explore the Koblenz Christmas Market, which boasts over 130 festive stalls.
Today you'll cruise to Cologne. Cologne's main Christmas market is one of the most famous in the world and is a hive of festive activity. Spend time perusing the stalls - or if you're looking for a smaller affair head to the Harbour Christmas markets held on the Rhine. There will be an optional coach trip to beautiful Bonn this afternoon.
It's time to bid farewell to your fellow travellers as you transfer from the ship for your journey home.
This four-star river cruise ship offers guests space, style and outstanding service
With her sleek design and claret-and-cream exterior, MS Serenity is a stylish ship - and she has fantastic cabins and facilities too.
On arrival you will enjoy a welcome drinks reception, after which you can make yourself at home. The cabins are what make this ship stand out: it's a lovely place to start each day, in your own private space with beautiful views of the river.
The panoramic restaurant ensures you miss none of the scenery during breakfast, lunch and dinner - all of which are freshly prepared by the onboard chefs. After a day of exploring, take a seat on the terrace of the Lido bar, or head up to the deck for a game of giant chess before enjoying your dinner and the evening's entertainment.
When you retire to your cabin, take a look at the daily programme to find out what the following day will bring...
KEY FEATURES
CABIN ACCOMMODATION
Panorama deck cabins: These cabins are of the highest standard. They are on the upper deck and have an en suite shower and toilet, air conditioning, twin beds, satellite TV, radio, safe and hairdryer. There's plenty of storage space and they have excellent views of the river with a french balcony.
Middle deck cabins: These cabins are on the middle deck and are the same size and layout as the panorama deck cabins. They have an en suite shower and toilet, air conditioning, twin beds, satellite TV, radio, safe, hairdryer and large sliding windows for you to enjoy the passing scenery.
Main deck cabins: These cabins are on the lower deck and are the same size and layout as the panorama deck cabins, with the same facilities. The only difference is the outside view, which is via two small windows.
To view The River Cruise Line’s supplier’s terms and conditions click here.