Premium All-Inclusive Rhine Xmas Markets Cruise

Step aboard the elegant A-ROSA ALEA and embark on a magical Christmas market cruise along the enchanting Rhine. Wander through the charming timber-framed streets of Rüdesheim and see the enchanting stalls inviting you to celebrate its Christmas Market within the ancient historical landscape of the Rhine Gorge, creating a unique flair and atmosphere.

Our journey then continues to Mainz, a city rich in history and tradition. See the Christmas market in the shadow of the magnificent Mainz Cathedral, where the renaissance façades glow under a canopy of festive lights.

Next, we experience Frankfurt, home to one of Germany’s most beautiful Christmas markets. Marvel at the towering Christmas tree and explore the bustling stalls nestled between Römerberg Square and St. Paul’s Church.

Our final stop brings us to Koblenz, a historic Roman city where the aroma of mulled wine, sugared almonds and gingerbread fills the air as you explore the artisan market with its charming handmade treasures.

Celebrate the most wonderful time of the year on this unforgettable Rhine River cruise, where the festive spirit, stunning scenery, and moments aboard A-ROSA ALEA create lasting holiday memories.

A-ROSA ALEA

The A-ROSA ALEA offers an exceptional setting for relaxation and comfort as you glide along the river, featuring a stunning panoramic lounge, a spacious sundeck equipped with sun loungers and a giant chessboard.

Onboard this spacious ship you will find a restaurant, where a buffet breakfast and lunch are served daily. For dinner, you can select starters and desserts from the buffet, while the main course is elegantly served at the table. The ship also boasts excellent facilities, including a whirlpool, a fitness room and three different lounges including an outdoor area on the bow of the ship where you can relax and enjoy the impressive scenic view of the river.

All cabins feature a safe, air conditioning, television, Wi-Fi, hairdryer, telephone and a private bathroom with a shower. Cabins with a private Juliette Balcony are available on higher decks 2 and 3, where you can enjoy watching the delightful riverscapes pass by. Please note that the ship is equipped with a lift providing access between Decks 1 and 3; however, there is no lift access to Deck 4 (the Sun Deck).

WHAT'S INCLUDED IN THIS TRAVEL PACKAGE

Accommodation with breakfast in Ypres
Accommodation with breakfast in Lille
Deck 1 Outer Cabin onboard A-ROSA ALEA(Upgraded rooms are available)
Premium All-Inclusive package with breakfast, lunch, dinner and drinks*
Rüdesheim guided walking tour
Frankfurt guided tour
Entertainment and activities onboard ship
Use of facilities onboard ship
Excursions as described in the tour itinerary
Return Calais-Dover ferry crossings
Return coach travel from your local pick up point

*Premium All-Inclusive package includes speciality teas and coffees, soft drinks, beers, spirits, and a selection of wines and cocktails. Gourmet buffet meals with live cooking stations for breakfast and lunch; for dinner is served dining. No fixed sittings and al fresco dining including occasional BBQ’s. Afternoon tea and bar snacks, plus free drinks room service.

Please be advised that the itinerary and excursions may be subject to change. Adjustments may be necessary due to weather conditions, operational considerations, or other unforeseen circumstances. We will make every effort to ensure that any changes minimally impact your overall experience and that suitable alternatives are provided whenever possible.

Day One

Early departure for our journey south to Dover for a ferry crossing to Calais. On arrival in Calais we continue our journey through France and into Belgium and onto our overnight hotel in Ypres, a charming Belgian town steeped in history. See the market square dominated by the huge Cloth Hall and tonight pause at the Menin Gate where at 20:00 each evening the Last Post is sounded to honour of those who perished in the war and has done so since 1929.

Day Two

After breakfast we depart Ypres and continue our journey through Germany and onto Cologne, where we board A-ROSA ALEA, our cruise for the next four nights. In the late afternoon we will depart from Cologne and travel overnight along the Rhine making our way to our first destination, Rüdesheim.

B, D

Day Three

This morning we arrive in Rüdesheim, where a guided walking tour unveils the charm and beauty of this picturesque town. After the tour, enjoy free time to explore the enchanting Christmas Market. As you meander through the festive alleyways, the sound of Christmas carols may drift through the air, adding to the magical atmosphere. Don't miss the chance to sample Rüdesheimer Kaffee, a delightful coffee specialty created right here - a true must-try during your visit.

In the late afternoon our cruise departs Rüdesheim and makes its way towards Mainz, where we arrive in the evening. With over 2,000 years of history, Mainz is one of Germany's oldest cities, where tradition and heritage come alive, particularly during the holiday season. Stroll through the historic Christmas market, beautifully set against the backdrop of the cathedral square and marvel at the illuminated Mainz Cathedral, a sight sure to captivate and enchant.

After our visit to Mainz, we continue our overnight cruise towards Frankfurt.

B, L, D

Day Four

We arrive in Frankfurt early this morning, where a full day awaits to explore this vibrant and dynamic city. We begin with a combined walking and bus tour, showcasing the modern boulevards lined with impressive skyscrapers, the charming Sachsenhausen district known for its apple wine taverns and the historic Römerberg. Following the guided tour, the remainder of the day is yours to enjoy at leisure and immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere of Frankfurt's Christmas Markets. Stretching from the Römerberg and the historic Paulskirche to the banks of the River Main, this is one of Germany's oldest and most beautiful Christmas markets. Be sure to savour regional specialties like Bethmännchen, a delicious marzipan pastry topped with almonds, or warm up with a glass of hot apple wine, a local favourite.

B, L, D

Day Five

We depart Frankfurt in the early hours of this morning passing the stunning Lorelei Valley enroute to our final destination. This morning why not make use of the fantastic facilities or relax onboard our cruise before we arrive in the city of Koblenz this afternoon. Koblenz is one of the most beautiful and oldest cities in Germany with over 2000 years of history. Wander through the festively adorned city centre, transformed into a holiday wonderland with the delightful aromas of roasted almonds, mulled wine and gingerbread filling the air. In the evening, we depart Koblenz and enjoy our final night on board as we set sail back towards Cologne.

B, L, D

Day Six

This morning we bid farewell to our captain and crew as we disembark in Cologne and begin our return journey by coach through Germany and into France and onto our overnight hotel in Lille. During our visit the renowned Lille Christmas Market will be taking place. Discover the festive magic in Lille's beautiful old town, where charming wooden chalets, twinkling lights and seasonal treats create a truly enchanting experience.

Day Seven

We check out this morning and continue to Calais for our return ferry crossing to Dover and on home to North Wales.

B=Breakfast Included, L=Lunch Included, D=Dinner Included

Below is a list of pick-up points available on this tour.

Name	Address	Distance
Abergele	Abergele, Bowling Green Bus Stop
Bangor, Nelson Pub	Bangor, Bus Stop Opposite Nelson Pub
Bangor, Pontio Centre	Bangor, Pontio Centre Bus Stop
Bethel	Bethel, Primary School Bus Stop
Bontnewydd	Bontnewydd, Bus Stop Near Chip Shop
Bryngwran	Bryngwran, School Entrance
Caergeiliog	Caergeiliog, Outside Sportsmans Pub
Caernarfon, Campbell Road	Caernarfon, Bus Stop Bottom of Campbell Road
Caernarfon, Leisure Cent.	Caernarfon, Bus Stop opposite Leisure Centre
Caernarfon, Morrisons	Caernarfon, Morrisons Bus Stop
Caernarfon, Waterloo Port	Caernarfon, Waterloo Port Bus Stop
Caernarfon, Y Glyn	Caernarfon, Y Glyn Bethel Road
Chester	Chester, Holiday Inn South Hotel Bus Stop
Chirk	Chirk, Moreton Park Garden Centre
Colwyn Bay	Colwyn Bay, Railway Station Bus Stop
Criccieth, Medical Centre	Criccieth, Medical Centre Bus Stop
Ewloe	Ewloe, Outside St David's Park Hotel
Gaerwen	Gaerwen, Stermat Car Park
Gwalchmai	Gwalchmai, Opposite Clock
Holyhead	Holyhead, Bus Stop Outside Ferry Terminal Entrance
Llanberis, Maes Padarn	Llanberis, Bus Stop Opposite Maes Padarn
Llanberis, Spar	Llanberis, Outside Spar Shop
Llandudno	Llandudno, Mostyn Broadway Coach Park Bus Stop
Llandudno Jct. Station	Llandudno Junction, Station Hotel Bus Stop
Llandygai	Llandygai, Penrhyn Castle Entrance
Llanfairfechan	Llanfairfechan, Castle Bridge Bus Stop
Llanfairpwll	Llanfairpwll, Pringles Car Park (Parking not permitted at Pringles car park)
Llanfairpwll Park & Ride	Llanfairpwll, Park & Ride
Llangefni	Llangefni, Church Street Bus Stop
Llanrug	Llanrug, Arvonia Garage
Menai Bridge	Menai Bridge, Library Bus Stop
Northop	Northop, Red Lion Pub Bus Stop
Oswestry	Oswestry, Mile End Services Coach Park
Penrhyn Bay	Penrhyn Bay, Post Office
Penygroes	Penygroes, Crossroads (Outside Victoria Hotel)
Porthmadog	Porthmadog, Tesco Bus Stop
Pwllheli	Pwllheli, Bus Station
Rhos on Sea, Cayley Arms	Rhos on Sea, Bus Stop Opposite Cayley Arms
Rhos on Sea, Hickorys	Rhos on Sea, Bus Stop Opposite Hickorys Restaurant
St. Asaph	St. Asaph, Bus Stop Outside Petrol Station
Valley	Valley, Opposite Valley Hotel
Wrexham	Wrexham, Bus Stand Lord Street
Y Felinheli, St. Marys	Y Felinheli, St Mary's Church Bus Stop
Y Felinheli, Victoria	Y Felinheli, Victoria Hotel Bus Stop