Christmas Markets on the Rhine

Welcome to Dusseldorf, the starting point of your journey! Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel.

After check-in, the rest of the day is yours. Wander the cobblestone streets of the Altstadt, round off the evening with dinner at a cozy little restaurant, or simply unwind after your journey.

Wander through Düsseldorf's charming Altstadt, famous for its cobblestone streets and festive Christmas spirit: in the heart of winter, cozy Christmas markets spring to life here, and the "longest bar in the world" glows with fairy lights and the scent of mulled wine. Stop at Marktplatz to admire the historic town hall and the Jan Wellem equestrian statue, especially striking against the backdrop of festive illuminations and the city's Christmas tree.

Continue to the Rhine Tower for a panoramic view over the snow-dusted city and the Rhine. Next, visit the medieval St. Lambertus Church with its famous twisted tower, beautifully decorated for the season. The route then leads to the Kunstpalast, a perfect spot to warm up while taking in contemporary art.

The day concludes at the Tonhalle, home of the Düsseldorfer Symphoniker, where elegant architecture and the sound of music provide an inspiring finale to your Christmas stroll through the city.

After a hearty breakfast, check out of your hotel and enjoy a private transfer through the elegant streets of Düsseldorf to the pier. Arriving at the port, you'll be welcomed aboard MS "VistaRio" — bid farewell to Düsseldorf and set your sights on the legendary Rhine, where an unforgettable river journey awaits.

Boarding on MS "VistaRio" begins at 16:00, and you'll be welcomed aboard with a refreshing welcome cocktail that sets the tone for the evening ahead. Settle into your comfortable cabin, soak in the passing riverside views, and spend your first night on board, gently lulled by the water beneath you.

At breakfast time, we arrive in Koblenz, stepping ashore in one of Germany's most breathtaking and historic cities. Nestled at the legendary "German Corner" — where the mighty Rhine and Moselle rivers converge — Koblenz is cradled by four dramatic mountain ranges, rolling vineyards, and lush forests, offering a postcard-perfect backdrop at every turn.

Here, over two thousand years of history come alive in stunning architecture: majestic churches, elegant palaces, noble manor houses, and grand aristocratic estates all await your discovery. Join our guided walking tour and let Koblenz's timeless charm unfold before you.

Afterwards, return to the ship as we set sail toward Mainz. As night falls, we glide gently into the city. Overnight stopover in Mainz.

After breakfast, we set out to explore Mainz, a city whose historical heritage stretches back almost 2000 years. The cityscape is proudly dominated by its magnificent Cathedral, in whose shadow medieval Mainz unfolds — a maze of narrow, winding alleys where life still hums through countless small shops, boutiques, and inviting cafés surrounding the enchanting Kirschgarten with its romantic half-timbered houses.

Modernity of the city asserts itself through the striking Town Hall and the Congress Centre at Rheingoldhalle, while the Baroque and Renaissance periods live on in treasures like the Neues Zeughaus (New Arsenal), the Deutschordenshaus, and the stately Palace of the Prince Electors.

By late morning, we return to the ship and set sail for Rüdesheim, arriving in time to enjoy the charm of this storybook town in the afternoon.

After lunch, we arrive in Rüdesheim, a picture-perfect town nestled in the heart of the Rhine Valley and one of Germany's most cherished destinations. You'll have free time to stroll through its charming cobblestone streets and half-timbered houses, exploring at your own pace. Step back in time as you discover centuries of history: the enchanting Klunkhardshof, the mighty fortified Adler Tower, the millennium-old Brömser Castle, and the hauntingly beautiful ruins of Ehrenfels Castle all await your discovery. With its storybook charm around every corner, Rüdesheim promises an experience you won't soon forget.

After lunch, we arrive in Cologne, Germany's oldest city and a treasure trove of culture, history, and art. Home to world-famous museums and a thriving contemporary art scene, Cologne invites you on a remarkable journey through two millennia — from the grandeur of the Roman Empire to the vibrant energy of modern city life.

Join the guided group tour of Cologne and discover iconic cultural monuments that have shaped the city's identity for centuries, including its legendary cathedral, one of the most visited landmarks in all of Europe. Wander through charming streets where ancient history and modern sophistication exist side by side, offering something fascinating around every corner.

As evening falls, celebrate an unforgettable night with the exclusive Captain's Dinner, a fitting tribute to a remarkable journey. We arrive for our overnight stopover in Düsseldorf.

Welcome to Düsseldorf. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to the airport for your departure flight.