Discover, Plan & Go!

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Overnight Flight to Frankfurt / Transfer to Cologne

Settle into your well-appointed outside cabin then meet your fellow travellers at dinner aboard.

Deluxe Vantage River Cruise Ship (D)

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Cologne

Begin your explorations with a tour of 2,000-year-old Cologne, followed by a visit to either the 13th century Cologne cathedral with its stunning shrine of the Three Magi (when Cologne Cathedral is not available, you'll visit the Roman Germanic Museum). You'll also have a chance to visit Cologne's Christmas markets – the city boasts three! Later aboard ship, you’re invited to the Captain’s Welcome Dinner, followed by a rousing performance of seafaring tunes and carols by a Shanty Choir.

Deluxe Vantage River Cruise Ship (B,L,D)

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Rüdesheim

As you cruise the dramatic Rhine Gorge this morning, you’ll hear the Legend of the Lorelei. When you arrive in the wine town of Rüdesheim, you’ll visit Siegfried’s Musikabinett, a delightful collection of mechanical instruments from the 18th and 19th centuries. Then look for treasures at the Christmas Market. In the evening, you’ll enjoy dinner with a German twist at a local restaurant.

Deluxe Vantage River Cruise Ship (B,L,D)

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Mainz / Frankfurt

In Mainz, you’ll choose one of two tours: a full-day excursion to the medieval university city of Heidelberg with free time to enjoy the Christmas Market or a half-day tour of Mainz featuring the Johannes Gutenberg Museum.

Deluxe Vantage River Cruise Ship (B,L,D)

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Miltenberg

Step back in time this morning with an informative glassblowing demonstration, followed by a walking tour of Miltenberg with free time to explore on your own. Then enjoy a Christmas handicraft workshop onboard the ship, as well as a tasty Christmas baking demonstration.

Deluxe Vantage River Cruise Ship (B,L,D)

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Würzburg

Experience the magic of Bavaria today on a full-day excursion to enchanting Rothenburg ob der Tauber, encircled by a medieval city wall. After a walking tour, you’ll have time to explore on your own and take in the Christmas Market or the German Christmas Museum where yuletide accessories from various eras are on display. Enjoy local entertainment.

Deluxe Vantage River Cruise Ship (B,L,D)

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Würzburg

Würzburg is “The Pearl of the Romantic Road,” Bavaria’s fairytale region of beam-and-stucco houses and turreted castles. Your tour includes the Residenz, known for its marvelous baroque staircase, followed by time at the Christmas Market. As you cruise on, enjoy a presentation about Germany’s Christmas traditions, such as Tannenbaums, nutcrackers, and advent calendars.

Deluxe Vantage River Cruise Ship (B,L,D)

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Bamberg, Germany

Marvel at well-preserved Bamberg (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) on a walking tour. You’ll see the frescoed Old Town Hall, which straddles the river, and the soaring Cathedral. Then you’ll view one of the nativity scenes of Bamberg’s famed Krippenweg walk. Return to the ship for lunch, then take in the colorful sights and delicious aromas of Bamberg’s Christmas Market. The Captain’s Farewell Party and Dinner is tonight.

Deluxe Vantage River Cruise Ship (B,L,D)

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Nuremberg

Your city tour of Nuremberg includes the storybook 900-year-old ramparts; the history-rich Old Town; the Imperial Castle; and the Justice Palace where the War Crimes Tribunal sat in 1946. Your program manager will provide you with euros so that you can purchase lunch on your own. Then, finish your holiday shopping at the Christmas Market. In the afternoon, enjoy free time to further enjoy the city.

ms River Discovery (B,L,D)

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Nuremberg / Disembark/Transfer to Munich / Return Home or stay in Munich with our optional 3 night extension