European Christmas Markets inc. Rhine & Moselle Viking Cruise
Experience Europe’s festive magic on this enchanting tour! Stroll through twinkling Christmas markets, savor Gluhwein, and explore Zurich, Strasbourg, and Trier.
Cruise the Rhine and Moselle rivers aboard the luxurious Viking Hild, ending in Paris with a festive lunch at the Eiffel Tower. Unforgettable holiday cheer and timeless charm await!
We start our comprehensive tour across the border in the Austrian capital and city of music, Vienna, before we journey to magical Salzburg and on into Switzerland. It might be a relatively small country surrounded by its larger neighbours, but Switzerland certainly offers a feast of sublime sights and experiences for the visitor – spectacular scenery, magnificent alpine lakes, snow-capped mountain peaks, lush rolling green meadows and a mixture of medieval old towns, country villages, and modern sophisticated cities. Highlights are many and include the Matterhorn, Jungfrau and a journey on one of the most famous trains in the world, the Glacier Express. To finish the tour, we join our river ship for 7 nights cruising on the Rhine enjoying the fairy-tale sights and romantic twists and turns en route to Amsterdam.
Viking Hild – Our Floating Hotel for 9-nights
We begin our Viking journey, with a 2-night hotel stay in Zurich before travelling through to Basel where we board our luxury river cruise ship “Viking Hild”. We enjoy 9 nights cruising, exploring two of Europe’s best-loved rivers, all while revelling in yuletide cheer. Discover beloved European holiday traditions and explore the festive Christmas Markets in each of the ports of call. Browse stalls full of local delicacies and handicrafts at the charming markets of Trier, Koblenz and Mannheim, admire the vibrantly lit facade of the cathedral in Reims and Alsatian bonhomie in Strasbourg. We conclude our cruise in Paris – a truly magical experience.
Dubai stopover, including visit to the Dubai Miracle Garden, Museum of the Future and tour of the world-famous Burj Al-Arab.
2-nights pre-cruise in Zurich, including city tour and cruise
Exploration of multiple Christmas Markets – plenty of opportunity to indulge in yuletide festivities and retail therapy
4-nights in Paris, including delicious Christmas lunch at Madame Brasserie – located on the first floor of the Eiffel Tower!
Eurostar journey from Paris to London in “Eurostar Plus” Class
3-nights London, including city tour and luncheon cruise on the River Thames
Cruise the Rhine & Moselle Rivers, for 9-nights from Basel to Paris on board Viking Hild in French Balcony Staterooms. Some excursions included en route.
Itinerary
Wednesday 10 December Home – Dubai
Late this afternoon, we report to the airport and join the flight to Dubai.
Thursday 11 December Dubai (D)
We arrive in Dubai early this morning and after clearing Customs and Immigration formalities, we are met and transferred to our hotel for a two-night stay. There is time to rest up after the flight until mid-afternoon where we meet up to enjoy a visit to Dubai Miracle Garden. Each season, as the weather begins to cool at the onset of winter, the gates reopen. With more than 150 million flowers in full bloom, this 72,000-sq-m paradise has flowered into one of the region’s most picturesque, sweet-scented destinations for more than a decade now. There is time for exploration at the garden, before we return to the hotel for dinner this evening.
Friday 12 December Dubai (B.D)
We start our day with a visit to the Museum of the Future. One of Dubai’s most famous landmarks, the museum takes pride of place along the city’s superhighway, Sheikh Zayed Road. Founded by the Dubai Future Foundation and launched on 22 February 2022, the museum explores how society could evolve in the coming decades using science and technology. Termed a ‘living museum’, it incorporates elements of traditional exhibitions, immersive theatre and themed attractions, so visitors can look beyond the present and towards the future’s limitless possibilities. Visitors have the chance to engage with this game-changing technology. Each floor of the museum is designed like an expansive, interactive movie set, brought to life by expert storytellers, technologists and visionary artists. In the afternoon, we visit the famous Burj Al-Arab Jumeirah for a special experience. The sail-like silhouette of the building has become a symbol of Dubai’s opulence and affluence, standing at 1,053 feet (321 meters) it is the third-tallest hotel and one of the most luxurious hotels in the United Arab Emirates. Opened in 1999, the landmark boasts plenty of superlatives, including its five-star status. We enjoy a tour of this magnificent hotel before partaking in the “Gold Experience” at the observation lounge on the 25th floor. Choose from either a glass of champagne, or a gold cappuccino. Later this afternoon, we return to the hotel for dinner.
Saturday 13 December Dubai – Zurich (B.D)
An early transfer to the airport where we join the 7-hour flight to Zurich. On arrival, we are met and transferred to our hotel, where we begin our cruise adventure with a 2-night hotel stay. Overlooking Lake Zürich and spanning the banks of the Limmat River, Switzerland’s largest city is often cited as one of Europe’s most liveable. It is the country’s financial heart, but its residents also embrace their natural surroundings, from soaring alpine peaks to the lake’s shimmering waters. Zürich is home to a lively and impressive arts culture. The avant-garde Dada movement was born here in 1916 and two of its most important churches boast stained glass windows by Marc Chagall and Augusto Giacometti. More masterworks reside in the city’s renowned Kunsthaus, including an enormous water lily painting by Monet. We enjoy dinner together this evening.
Sunday 14 December Zurich (B.D)
Take in the impressive sights of Switzerland’s stunning lakeside city as we explore by boat and by foot. Enjoy sweeping views of Zürich from its namesake lake, embarking on a scenic cruise along pristine waters surrounded by alpine splendour. Sit back and relax as we marvel at the beautiful surroundings. Next, we enjoy a guided walking tour of the city’s Old Town, the core of Zürich that was once enclosed by walls. The city is home to many colourful guild houses – former merchants’ quarters that create a fairy-tale aura. Stroll along the quay of the Limmat River, whose waters flow through the city’s heart. View the Rathaus, built in 1690, and the many churches: Fraumünster, which ruled the town until 1336; Grossmünster, founded by Charlemagne; and St. Peter’s Church, which boasts the largest church clock face in Europe. Walk down Zürich’s bustling shop-lined main street before returning to your Hotel.
Monday 15 December Zurich – Basel (join Viking Cruise) (B.L.D)
After breakfast, we check out of our hotel and begin our journey to our embarkation city. A delightful blend of old and new, Basel is Switzerland’s best-kept secret. During the holiday season, the medieval Old Town is transformed into a magical yuletide affair. Cobblestone streets are lined with wooden chalet-style huts selling all manner of festive treats and gifts. Visitors to the Christmas market can enjoy a warming cup of aromatic glühwein in a decorated boot-shaped mug. Hand-carved tree decorations, cheerfully painted ceramics and delicious food are sold from stalls throughout the city. We embark our ship and later on, we meet our guide and set off on foot for a tour of this fascinating city where three nations converge: Switzerland, France and Germany. Visit Marktplatz, or Market Square, surrounded by guild halls of late Gothic, Renaissance and baroque styles. Admire the ornate spires of the Rathaus, or Town Hall, and stroll to the Münsterplatz, where the thin towers of the 13th-century Romanesque Cathedral overlook the wooden chalets of the festive market. Take time to browse the stalls, and perhaps sample a local delicacy, such as a freshly prepared röstis, a fried, grated potato patty served with a helping of apple sauce; a fragrant fondue; or a grittibänz—a delicious, sweetened brioche shaped like a gingerbread man.
Tuesday 16 December Strasbourg (B.L.D)
Strasbourg is said to be the capital of Christmas in France, with the city’s cathedral square taking centre stage as it is transformed into a winter wonderland. The city’s Christkindelsmärik is the oldest in France, dating back to 1570. Hundreds of stalls are brimming with colourful wares, fine food and mulled wine, bringing festive cheer in abundance. Alsatian specialties feature an array of hearty classics, from bretzels (soft, bread-like pretzels) to bredele (star-shaped spiced cookies), and knacks (sausages) to pain d’epices (gingerbread). On our excursion, we will meet our guide and embark on a scenic ride by motor coach as our guide explains the history of the French city that has retained its German heritage and flair. Upon arrival, we will set off on foot to explore the city’s historic centre. Pause to take in the grandeur of the 15th century Notre Dame Cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece. Continue through the different districts of Strasbourg, including picturesque La Petite France, a charming quarter known for its classic cobblestone streets and picturesque canals. Head to the main square and delight in the festive ambiance of the Christmas market, with more than 300 wooden chalets located among the city’s Old Town squares. Thousands of shimmering lights and decorations make it one the most famous Christmas markets in Europe.
Wednesday 17 December Speyer & Mannum (B.L.D)
Speyer’s Old Town transforms into a winter wonderland during the holiday season. With the historic Old Gate as a stunning backdrop, market stalls are brimming with yuletide treats, serving Christmas cookies and steaming mugs of aromatic glühwein. Skaters don their woollen hats and gloves, and take to the ice for some festive fun, while visitors browse for unique handmade gifts. On our excursion, we enjoy a fascinating stroll through Speyer, home to the largest of the three Romanesque imperial cathedrals. It is believed that the Protestants earned their name here in 1529 after citizens and royalty drafted the “Protestation at Speyer,” proclaiming their right to practice Christianity as they please. In 1689, Louis XIV’s troops plundered Speyer and left it in ruins; over many decades, it was artfully rebuilt. During our walk, we will marvel at the exterior of the red sandstone cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Eight emperors are entombed here, including some of the most notable Holy Roman Emperors. Reconstructed after Louis XIV’s invasion, its six towers dominate the skyline. Pass the Jewish courtyard, once home to one of the most important medieval synagogues, and Speyer’s Altpörtel, or Old Gate, the last remains of the town’s fortifications. There will also be time to stroll the city’s charming, shop-lined main thoroughfare.
Later, we continue to Mannum. Mannheim’s Christmas market is a holiday season shopping extravaganza, centred around the city’s iconic water tower. One of Germany’s oldest and largest markets, more than 160 booths host vendors from around the world, offering handicrafts and handmade items. Beautiful glassware, and carved wooden toys and games, sit alongside Christmas lanterns, colourful baubles and ornaments, all of which are presented in quaint wooden houses. Luxurious cashmere scarves, sheepskin mittens and felt hats are the ideal purchase to take home as gifts for friends and family.
Thursday 18 December Mainz (B.L.D)
Located in the heart of the Rhine wine region, Mainz has been an important cultural centre for thousands of years. Every winter, the city transforms itself into a cozy winter wonderland with one of Germany’s prettiest Christmas markets. The 10th-century Cathedral of St. Martin becomes a dramatic backdrop for vendors selling handmade crafts, as well as candied almonds, chestnuts and mulled wine. Smaller WinterZeit markets dot the city, and concerts and traditional stage productions of fairy tales play regularly during the yuletide season. We take a guided tour of this city that boasts more than 2,000 years of history. Walk with our guide through the picturesque streets of the Old Town, stopping to explore Mainz Cathedral. This soaring landmark is more than 1,000 years old. Marvel at its six magnificent towers and step inside, if services allow, to admire hundreds of years of religious works on display, as well as the tombs of powerful prince-archbishops of a bygone era. Stroll past medieval houses and storefronts to the Gutenberg Museum, dedicated to the inventor of movable type and book printing. Founded in 1900 – 500 years after the birth of Johannes Gutenberg – the museum features a fascinating exhibit that covers the history of the printed word. During your visit, you may browse its many beautiful books and fascinating printing technologies, including a replica of Gutenberg’s workshop.
Friday 19 December Koblenz & Winningen (B.L.D)
Today, we take a festive stroll around Koblenz to explore its historic past and visit the Christmas market. We start our tour at Deutsches Eck, the city’s famed German Corner and home to a popular equestrian statue of Emperor Wilhelm I. After time to admire the sculpture, we continue our walk among the narrow streets. Revel in the yuletide atmosphere in the heart of the Old Town and admire the beautiful old school that has operated as the Koblenz City Hall since 1895. Get acquainted with local Christmas traditions during a stroll through the cheerful Christmas market; six different locations, between Münzplatz and Zentralplatz, host the festivities. As you pass the charming stalls, the sweet aroma of traditional holiday favourites, such as glühwein and roasted almonds. Indulge in a delicious, sweet treat before returning to our ship. In the afternoon, we arrive in Winningen. visit Hugging a gentle curve in the Moselle River, Winningen enjoys stunning vistas of forested hills and limestone cliff faces on the river’s opposite banks. The small city’s Weingüter, or wine taverns, showcase the valley’s famed Riesling, Müller-Thurgau and Elbling that are nurtured in steeply terraced vineyards draping nearby slopes. In a region with plentiful renowned wine towns, Winningen is less well-known, and therein lies its charm. Its typical German streets are lined with half-timbered buildings and are a pleasure to explore.
Saturday 20 December Cochem (B.L.D)
Explore Cochem, one of the most picturesque towns on the Moselle, and discover its lively Christmas market. Take a short drive up to the lofty perch of the 1,000-year-old Reichsburg Castle, conquered by Louis XIV in the Nine Years’ War and later purchased and restored in a splendid Gothic Revival style by a Berlin businessman. Return to the town below for a walking tour among its impressive landmarks. We will see its medieval town gate and pass various churches, including the 15th-century St. Martin’s. In the market square, admire the bay window of the baroque Town Hall and see the 17th-century Capuchin Monastery. After our tour, there is time to explore on your own. Stroll the stalls of the colourful Christmas market, its festive atmosphere filling the squares and alleyways of the Old Town. You may choose to sample a glass of mulled white wine, a specialty from the region, before returning to the ship.
Sunday 21 December Bernkastel & Trier (B.L.D)
The medieval Old Town of Bernkastel transforms itself during the holidays, with its cobblestone streets decked out in lights and the aroma of mulled wine, gingerbread and almonds filling the air. Picturesque half-timbered houses form the backdrop for about 40 stalls, where vendors showcase seasonal wares such as traditional handicrafts and jewellery. The market square is also home to the region’s largest Advent calendar, festively displayed in the window of a local pharmacy. The market’s highlight is the arrival by boat of Santa Claus, accompanied by swimmers carrying torches. In the afternoon on our included excursion, we discover Trier, a once-mighty regional centre of the Roman and Holy Roman Empires, and its festive holiday market. Vestiges of Rome’s power are everywhere, seamlessly mingling with a vibrant and active modern city. Pass the Roman amphitheatre and admire the massive Roman baths, which include the largest baths north of the Alps. You will also see the remarkably preserved Roman city gates, the Porta Nigra; the dark coloured stones of this UNESCO World Heritage Site once served as the formidable entrance to the city. Marvel at the edifice-like Cathedral of Trier and the Liebfrauenkirche, or Church of Our Lady, one of Germany’s earliest Gothic churches. Enjoy the romantic atmosphere of the vibrant Christmas market, its yuletide cheer filling the squares of both the medieval main market and cathedral. Afterward, you will have free time to explore on your own before returning to your ship.
Monday 22 December Reims & Paris (B.D)
After breakfast, we disembark our ship and explore Reims during a guided tour. We view the stunning Reims Cathedral and admire the Gothic architectural features. See the Gallery of Kings, then step inside to view the stunning stained-glass windows dating from the 13th through 20th centuries, including the glorious north rose window and windows designed by Marc Chagall. You will also have free time for lunch (at your own expense) and to browse the stalls of the Christmas market, immersing yourself in the yuletide atmosphere as you shop for regional specialties and festive gifts. During a visit to the solemn Luxembourg American Cemetery, you can take a moment to pause and reflect on the events of World War II. Many of the 5,073 US soldiers laid to rest here fought in the infamous Battle of the Bulge, including General George S. Patton. In the afternoon, we arrive and check in to our hotel. Long a hub of French culture and cuisine, Paris is one of the most romantic destinations in the world. Over the centuries, Parisian culture has been built on the wings of inspiration. Music, film, architecture, literature, dance and the visual arts all have their brilliant place in the museums, theatres, bookstores and remarkably preserved buildings of this magnificent city. At the centre of it all is the Champs-Élysées. With its inviting riverside promenade, graceful bridges and splendid views of all things Parisian, from the Eiffel Tower to the Louvre Museum.
Tuesday 23 December Paris (B)
Revel in the major sights of the “City of Light” during a festive drive amid twinkling lights. Begin along the famed Champs-Élysées, viewing the Arc de Triomphe, commissioned by Napoleon in 1806 to commemorate his triumphs. Admire the illuminated sights of Paris, including the celebrated Louvre Museum with its glass pyramid entrance and Town Hall. Continue into the Latin Quarter, then drive by Saint-Germain-des-Prés, Luxembourg Gardens, Musée d’Orsay, Place de la Concorde, and the recently restored Grand Palais and Petit Palais. See the Les Invalides complex of military buildings, where the tomb of Napoleon sits, and the École Militaire. Cap your tour with an iconic view of the Eiffel Tower from Champ de Mars. Before returning to the hotel, enjoy some free time at one of the Christmas markets in the city centre.
Wednesday 24 December Paris (B.D)
Our journey with Viking ends today however, we will remain in Paris for the next two-nights. Today is completely at leisure, for you to further explore the city or indulge in some retail therapy.
Thursday 25 December Paris (B.L)
Merry Christmas! After a leisurely morning, we meet to enjoy a very special Christmas Day lunch, as we celebrate at Madame Brasserie, nestled on the first floor of the Eiffel Tower. Enjoy a festive menu crafted by Thierry Marx, featuring exceptional ingredients, all while taking in panoramic views of Paris. Christmas at Madame Brasserie is much more than just a meal. It’s a moment suspended in time, where the breathtaking view of all of Paris blends with a festive and intimate atmosphere. From the sparkling Champs-de-Mars to the majestic silhouette of Notre-Dame, the whole of Paris unfolds before your eyes as you enjoy this exceptional gastronomic interlude.
Friday 26 December Paris – London (B.D)
Now for something different today, we transfer back to Paris Gare du Nord. Sit back and relax and enjoy the ride in “Eurostar Plus” Class comfort on board Eurostar for the 3-hour train journey under the English Channel to London’s St Pancras Station. On arrival, we are met and transferred to our hotel for a 3-night stay.
Saturday 27 December London (B.L)
You may have been to London before, but let’s refresh your memory with a full day sightseeing around the ‘grand old lady’. We view many of the sights for which London is famous – Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament, Westminster Abbey, Buckingham Palace, St. Paul’s Cathedral, Trafalgar Square to name but a few. And to break the day we enjoy a luncheon cruise on the River Thames where we see a different view of the city from the water.
Sunday 28 December London (B.D)
We have left this day totally free to allow you to visit the places that are of particular interest to you. There is so much to choose from – so many museums, monuments and attractions deserving of a visit. This evening, we get together for a farewell dinner.
Monday 29 December London – Dubai (B)
Sadly, it’s time to commence the homeward journey as we are transferred to London’s Heathrow Airport in time to join our flight to Dubai. We arrive just after midnight on 30 Dec and have a few hours at a transit hotel to rest prior to joining our onward flight to Auckland.
* For those that wish, there is the opportunity to extend your stay and return home at a later date.Tuesday 30 December Dubai – Auckland
Time for the last leg of our journey on our flight home.
Wednesday 31 December Arrive Auckland
Arrival time is mid-morning.
