Float from one Christmas market to another along the scenic Rhine River on an eight-day themed river cruise offered by Tauck. The Christmas Markets Along the Rhine itinerary is available in both northbound and southbound directions, each featuring classic holiday destinations, festive markets and local traditions.
On the northbound route, you’ll visit the picturesque half-timbered Alsatian wine village of Riquewihr, France, just across the German border. Experience the Christkindlmarkt in Strasbourg, where stalls brim with handcrafted goods and the scent of mulled wine and holiday cakes fills the air. Explore legendary Baden-Baden in the Black Forest, enjoy a guided city excursion and pause for gingerbread treats. In Heidelberg, the markets stretch across five city squares and a guided tour leads to the town’s famous hilltop castle. Stroll the cobblestone streets of the riverside village of Rüdesheim, hear holiday caroling, and take part in music-themed events. The route also calls at Aachen, long known for its spice-scented engraved cakes called Aachener Printen, made by local bakers using recipes handed down for generations.
The southbound sailing follows a similar pattern, revisiting many of the same highlights and offering comparable activities, so travelers can choose the direction that best fits their plans.
Rates for this themed cruise start at $2,550 per person. The fare includes private Tauck shore excursions and guided walking tours of market towns and villages with knowledgeable local guides. Enrichment features range from a storytelling lecture in Strasbourg to a cookie-baking demonstration and a visit to Siegfried’s Musikkabinett in Rüdesheim. In Heidelberg, passengers enjoy a special lunch ashore plus visits to Old Town and the historic Heidelberg Schloss.
Onboard, the celebration continues with a traditional European Christmas dinner and a program of holiday events. The price covers all meals on board—seven breakfasts, six lunches and seven dinners—along with service charges, taxes, porterage, airport transfers and any applicable fuel surcharges. Guests also benefit from unlimited complimentary beverages while aboard, including regional wines and beers, premium spirits, tea, specialty coffees, water and soft drinks.
This cruise combines the festive atmosphere of Europe’s most charming Christmas markets with guided cultural experiences and comfortable riverboat accommodations, making it an immersive holiday option for travelers who want to savor seasonal traditions, regional flavors and historic towns along the Rhine.