Magic of Advent Rhine River Cruise
December 1 - December 5, 2025

Discover the enchantment of the European holiday season with the "Magic of Advent on the Rhine 2025" river cruise. Explore the renowned Christmas markets of Germany and France as you sail from Cologne to Strasbourg, surrounded by the twinkling lights, festive sounds, and delightful aromas that make this time of year so magical.

This five-day journey is designed to immerse you in the festive spirit, offering opportunities to connect with a community of like-minded travelers, indulge in local culinary delights, and create lasting memories. At each of our carefully curated ports of call – Koblenz, Rüdesheim, Heidelberg, Speyer, and Strasbourg – you'll have the chance to explore the charming streets, browse the stalls of the Christmas markets, and soak in the enchanting atmosphere.

Imagine strolling through the narrow, cobblestone lanes of Rüdesheim, where the sound of live music fills the air and the scent of gingerbread lingers. Or wandering through the historic "Petite France" neighborhood of Strasbourg, with its picturesque half-timbered buildings and the magnificent cathedral as the backdrop. These are the kinds of unforgettable experiences that await you on the "Magic of Advent on the Rhine 2025" river cruise.

Whether you're seeking a cozy retreat with friends, a solo adventure, or a chance to explore the world with a group of kindred spirits, this river cruise offers the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the magic of the European holiday season. Secure your spot today and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey that will leave you feeling inspired, rejuvenated, and filled with holiday cheer.

Itinerary


November 30, 2025 (Sunday)
  • Optional early arrival day.  Hotel details will be added soon.  This will include airport transportation, hotel, a city tour of Cologne, and transfers to the ship.
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December 1, 2023 (Monday) 
  • Arrive into Cologne. Arrival transfer included.  Embark the Amadeus Cara and settle into your cabin.  Meet the rest of the group this evening for a welcome drink.
  • Meals Included: Dinner

December 2, 2025 (Tuesday)
  • After breakfast, enjoy a walking tour of Koblenz where you'll see the main sights along with the holiday markets. After lunch and a mulled wine party back on board, we arrive Ruedesheim.  After a quick walking tour of this small village and a visit to the Music Cabinet Museum, you'll have time to enjoy the markets for yourself.  
  • Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

December 3, 2025 (Wednesday)
  • This morning, you'll arrive in Speyer.  After breakfast, take a tour to the old imperial residence town of Heidelberg, where you can enjoy not only numerous tourist attractions, but can also admire and enjoy the regional handicrafts, as well as the gingerbread and glühwein available at the romantic Christmas market. Lunch is back on board the ship, after which you can continue to explore Speyer on your own where another beautiful Christmas market waits for you.
  • Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

December 4, 2023 (Thursday)
  • This morning, you awake in France, where you will discover the most beautiful aspects of the exciting metropolis of Strasbourg. In the pre-Christmas season, the beautifully decorated shops which set the city aglow with festive light are particularly worth seeing. Of course, you will also visit the Christmas market. Tonight upon return to the ship, get ready for the exclusive Captain's Gala dinner.
  • Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner​

December 5, 2023 (Friday) - Departure Day
  • Today you disembark the Amadeus Cara and say farewell to Strasbourg and your new traveling friends.  
  • Meals Included: Breakfast

Overview

Arrival Information
  • Cologne, German (CGN)
  • December 1, 2025 (optional pre-night arrival of November 30, 2025)

Departure Information
  • Strasbourg, France (SXB)
  • December 5, 2025
  • Depart at any time

Places visited
  • Cologne, Germany
  • Koblenz, Germany
  • Ruedesheim, Germany​
  • Speyer, Germany
  • Strasbourg, France

Price
  • ​$2,673​ per person, double occupancy, Mozart suite, 284 sq ft, balcony. 3rd floor
  • $2,289 per person, double occupancy, Mozart A1, 188 sq ft, drop down panoramic window, 3rd floor
  • $2,074 per person, double occupancy, Strauss B1, 188 sq ft, drop down panoramic window, 2nd floor
  • Single occupancy is available and is between 50 and 100% of the double occupancy price.​​

Deposit
  • 10% of the cruise fare, per person
  • Deposit payment is 100% non-refundable!

Ready to Book?
Travel Insurance
  • An all inclusive plan that covers cancellation/interruption insurance is strongly recommended.  You can learn more about your options from Travelex and purchase a policy here. 

Inclusions

Accommodations
  • 5 nights onboard the Amadeus Cara  
  • Onboard wi-fi
Activities
  • Guided tours of Koblenz, Rudesheim, Heidelberg, Speyer, and Strasbourg
Meals
  • 4 breakfasts
  • 3 Lunches
  • 4 Dinners including the Captain's dinner
  • 4 late night snacks
  • Welcome reception
  •  Regional wines, beer, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner
Transportation
  • All transportation to and from included activities
  • Arrival transportation from the Cologne airport to the Amadeus Cara
Guides and Host:​
  • Rene from Grand Explorations will be your host for the duration of the trip
  • Experience Amadeus cruise director
  • Local expert guides where appropriate

Exclusions

  • International Flights
  • Any meals and drinks not listed under Inclusions
  • Any optional activities not listed under Inclusions
  • Items of a personal nature
  • Travel Insurance (Can be purchased here from Travelex.)

Important Notes

  • ​While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to this style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable.