Travelsphere Rhine Cruise, Cologne & Christmas markets

• Standard-class return rail travel by Eurostar from St Pancras International or or Ebbsfleet to Brussels, then by Thalys high speed train to Cologne
• 2 nights in a 4-star hotel and 4 nights onboard 4-star ship A-ROSA AQUA
• 14 meals: 6 breakfasts, 3 lunches and 5 dinners including all drinks on board (excluding Champagne and some selected drinks) and welcome reception and canapes
• Travelsphere Tour Manager and Cruise Representative
• Overseas transfers, other transportation and porterage at your hotel and ship

• Cologne city tour including a visit to the Christmas markets
• Tour of Heidelberg Christmas markets
• Tour of Strasbourg including the Christmas markets
• Walking tour of historic Mainz
• Enjoy mulled wine and gingerbread
• Onboard entertainment

Day 1: UK – Cologne

Today you’ll make your own way to St Pancras or Ebbsfleet International to board the Eurostar for Brussels. From here you’ll travel by Thalys high speed rail to Cologne, where you’ll be transferred to your hotel. In the evening, you’ll enjoy dinner and meet your fellow travellers.

Day 2: Cologne

Cologne is a lively city with plenty of history and interesting architecture. You’ll be taken on a full-day guided tour to see landmarks including the famous gothic cathedral with its twin spires. Have a wander around the Christmas markets, where you can drink mulled wine and soak up the festive atmosphere. 

Day 3: Cologne – at leisure

There will be some free time this morning so why not explore more of Cologne, perhaps visiting one of the city’s many excellent museums or browsing the shops. In the afternoon, you’ll be transferred to your ship, the A-ROSA AQUA.

Day 4: Cologne – Heidelberg – Mannheim

Today you leave Cologne behind and set sail down the Rhine. The ship passes through one of the most scenic sections of the Rhine, full of hilltop castles, vineyards and picturesque towns with half-timbered houses. You’ll stop in Heidelberg, where you’ll step ashore and explore the historic town. The Christmas markets will be in full swing, so take time to browse the stalls, soak up the magical atmosphere and admire the enchanting trees adorned with twinkling lights. Later, there will be plenty of time to relax and take in the scenery from the comfort of the ship before arriving in Mannheim.

Day 5: Strasbourg

After sailing through the night to France, the ship will arrive in Strasbourg mid-morning. Strasbourg is a vibrant city where old meets new. On our excursion, you’ll stroll the cobbled streets of the Old Town and see the gothic cathedral. You’ll have the chance to visit the Christmas market, which is one of the oldest in Europe. There will be free time to explore the city’s more modern side too – perhaps visiting a museum or the shops, before heading back to the ship.

Day 6: Mainz

Today we travel back to Germany to the Rhineland town of Mainz. This medieval town boasts a magnificent 12th century cathedral with original stained glass which we will visit on our walking tour of historic Mainz. We will also see the old university and the Holy Spirit Hospital. You may choose to treat yourself to a glass of local wine in a typical Altstadt tavern – this is Germany’s largest wine-growing region, after all! In the evening, you’ll join other guests for a farewell dinner before the ship sets sail for Cologne.

Day 7: Cologne – UK

You’ll wake up in Cologne and after breakfast, be transferred to the station for your train journey back to the UK via Brussels.

Day 1 – 2: NH Collection Koln Mediapark

Day 3 – 6: Arosa Aqua

Your ship is the 4-star A-Rosa Aqua, an elegant vessel with an onboard restaurant, wine bar, spacious sun deck and heated outdoor whirlpool. For your entertainment, the ship also has a mini putting green and a giant chessboard. Your cabin has en suite facilities, safe, air-conditioning, TV, hairdryer and telephone.

Please note, prices listed are guide prices only and are based on 2 people sharing and don’t include any additional supplements. Holiday prices are fluid and dynamic and may be changed at a moment’s notice, prior to booking, at which point they are confirmed. Please call the team free on 0800 707 6229 for more departure dates available and a quote.