Celebrate the holidays in the most magical way possible—cruising through Europe’s iconic Christmas markets along the Rhine River. This festive Chicas Abroad journey blends cozy river cruising with fairytale towns, twinkling lights, and centuries-old holiday traditions in the Netherlands, Germany, France, and Switzerland. From storybook canals to castle-lined riverbanks, every day feels like stepping into a winter postcard.

Sip mulled wine beneath glowing market stalls, wander cobblestone streets framed by half-timbered houses, and experience Europe’s most beloved cities during their most enchanting season. With thoughtfully curated excursions, flexible activity options, and the ease of unpacking just once, this trip is as relaxing as it is unforgettable—perfect for women who want culture, connection, and holiday magic without the stress.

This isn’t just a vacation—it’s a shared seasonal experience designed to spark joy, deepen friendships, and create memories you’ll treasure long after the lights come down. Keep reading to discover why this Christmas Markets cruise is one of the most special trips Chicas Abroad offers.

This trip offers a moderate activity level with plenty of flexibility, making it accessible and enjoyable for a wide range of travelers. Most days include guided walking tours at a relaxed pace, with options to choose more active experiences like biking or hiking if you’d like—or gentler alternatives if you prefer to take it slow. Whether you’re strolling through Christmas markets, exploring historic towns, or opting for an active excursion, you’re always able to participate at the level that feels best for you.

December along the Rhine River brings classic European winter weather, adding to the cozy holiday atmosphere. Expect cool to cold temperatures, generally ranging from the mid-30s to mid-40s°F (1–7°C), with crisp air and the occasional chance of light rain or snow. While days are chilly, the festive glow of Christmas markets, warm drinks, and winter layers make exploring these cities comfortable and wonderfully atmospheric.

All the excursions listed in the itinerary are included. Bring cash/credit cards for purchasing souvenirs, additional snacks/meals, alcoholic drinks, extra activities, and other items. You can either order Euros and Swiss Francs from your bank at home or use an ATM on arrival in Europe to get some cash. Exchanging USD to Euros at the airport or at a bank in Europe is not always easy and doesn't give the best exchange rates.

AmaWaterways does not automatically add gratuities like some ocean cruise lines do — tipping is at your discretion. For a 7-night river cruise, the following is recommended:

• Ship’s Crew: ~100 € per person

• Cruise Manager: ~25 € per person

The Chicas Abroad tour leader will be on board to assist with the group where needed. However, this is a unique Chicas Abroad experience where you are truly on your own to choose what you'd like to do each day. We will likely meet up as a group for breakfast and dinner each day and share our fun experiences! You may tip your Chicas Abroad tour leader if you'd like as she will be working tirelessly before and during the sailing to ensure you are having the best time ever! But it's entirely optional!

A custom packing list will be emailed out a few months prior to departure.

There are multiple excursions included at each stop along the cruise and you can decide which ones you'd like to participate in. There is no additional cost for these excursions.

Since we are traveling with AmaWaterways, there are specific terms and conditions you must be aware of. Here's the general terms, but please review the full document linked below:

• $400 deposit due at booking, which only 50% is refundable if you cancel your trip 121+ days prior to departure

• Cancel 120-90 days prior to departure: $400 deposit is non-refundable

• Cancel 89-60 days prior to departure: 35% of cruise and land price is non-refundable

• Cancel 59-31 days prior to departure: 50% of cruise and land price is non-refundable

• Cancel 30-0 days prior to departure: 100% of cruise and land price is non-refundable

Please review this document: https://www.amawaterways.com/terms-conditions/booking-sales

Welcome to Basel, where your magical Christmas Markets on the Rhine adventure begins. Step aboard your beautifully decorated river cruise ship and settle into your home for the week as the holiday spirit surrounds you from the very first moment.

This evening, meet your fellow Chicas Abroad travelers and enjoy your first dinner onboard as the ship prepares to sail. With festive décor, warm lights, and cozy vibes, the journey begins in true holiday style.

Accommodation: Room aboard cruise boat
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Note: We don't know the time of embarkation yet. As soon as we know, we will advise on the arrival time for flights to Basel.

Breisach opens the door to some of the most charming destinations of the journey, with excursions that feel straight out of a holiday postcard. Travel into medieval Colmar in France’s enchanting Alsace region, where pastel-colored, half-timbered houses line cobblestone streets and Christmas Markets glow with storybook charm. The blend of French and German traditions creates a festive atmosphere that feels cozy, whimsical, and completely unforgettable.

Or head to Freiburg, a historic city founded in 1120 and crowned by the magnificent Freiburg Münster, whose spire is often called the most beautiful in the world. Spend free time wandering the Christmas Markets, sampling local treats, and soaking in the warm holiday spirit. For those craving movement and fresh air, a scenic bike ride through Breisach’s countryside offers a peaceful and picturesque way to experience the region.

Accommodations: Room aboard a cruise boat

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Excursions Available:

1. Colmar Excursions and Christmas Markets

2. Brisach Bike Tour

Strasbourg shines brightest during the season of Advent, earning its reputation as the “Capital of Christmas.” Home to the legendary Christkindelsmärik—France’s oldest Christmas Market dating back to 1570—this city feels like a real-life holiday fairytale. After a short drive to the Place de la République, stroll through the historic Grande Île, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and wander the charming canals and half-timbered houses of the La Petite France district.

Marvel at the stunning Cathédrale de Notre Dame and its famous astronomical clock before soaking in the magic of Strasbourg’s iconic Christmas Market, filled with twinkling lights, handcrafted gifts, and irresistible seasonal treats. Prefer a different pace? Explore the city’s unique neighborhoods by bike, or choose an afternoon excursion to nearby Baden-Baden to experience its romantic Christmas Markets. However you spend the day, Strasbourg delivers pure European holiday magic.

Accommodations: Room aboard cruise boat

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Excursions Available:

1. Strasbourg City Tour and Christmas Markets

2. Guided Bike Tour

3. Baden Baden Walking Tour and Christmas Markets

Today invites you to step into the heart of Germany’s history and holiday traditions with a choice of unforgettable excursions. Fall in love with Heidelberg, where a majestic hilltop castle overlooks the city and one of Europe’s oldest universities sets the scene. Stroll along the lively Hauptstrasse—one of Europe’s longest pedestrian streets—lined with festive decorations, cozy cafés, and charming Christmas Market stalls brimming with Yuletide cheer.

For a more active adventure, hike the scenic Philosopher’s Path along the Neckar River, bike to the medieval town of Ladenburg and its picturesque Marktplatz, or explore Speyer, one of Germany’s oldest cities. Here, marvel at the awe-inspiring Romanesque cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, before wandering the Christmas Market along Maximilianstrasse, framed by views of the romantic Kaiserdom. Each option blends culture, movement, and holiday magic—making this another day you won’t soon forget.

Accommodation: Room on cruise boat
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Excursions Available:

1. Heidelberg Tour and Christmas Markets

2. Medieval Speyer and Christmas Markets

3. Philosopher's Path Hike

4. Ladenburg Bike Tour

This morning is pure storybook magic as we cruise through the Rhine River Gorge, a UNESCO-listed stretch dotted with fairytale castles, steep vineyards, and charming riverside villages. Keep your camera ready as the ship glides through one of the most scenic sections of the entire journey before arriving in the beloved wine town of Rüdesheim.

Once ashore, the day is yours to personalize with a choice of unforgettable experiences. Sip local vintages in a historic wine cellar followed by a festive Christmas Market visit, hike through rolling vineyards, float peacefully above the vines on Rüdesheim’s gondola, or join a guided bike ride along the Rhine. No matter your choice, the holiday magic continues at the Christmas Market. Later, dive into local culture with a visit to Siegfried’s Mechanical Instrument Cabinet or warm up with the town’s famous Rüdesheimer coffee—a cozy, unforgettable treat.

Accommodation: Room aboard cruise boat
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Excursions Available:

1. Siegfried's Mechanical Instrument Cabinet and Christmas Markets

2. Siegfried's Mechanical Instrument Cabinet and Gondola Ride

3. Rudesheim Vineyards Hike

4. Guided Bike Tour of the Rheingau

Cruise into Düsseldorf this morning as the Rhine’s winter scenery drifts by, setting the tone for a festive day in Germany. In the afternoon, choose an unforgettable excursion to nearby Cologne, where you’ll stroll through the enchanting Old Town with a local guide. Discover centuries of history at landmarks like the Cologne Rathaus, the colorful Fishmarkt, and the iconic Great St. Martin Church—then top it all off with time at one of Europe’s largest and most celebrated Christmas markets, filled with twinkling lights, handmade gifts, and the scent of mulled wine.

Prefer to stay closer to port? Explore historic Düsseldorf on foot with a knowledgeable guide who brings the city’s past and holiday traditions to life. End your walk at the local Christmas Market, where festive stalls and cozy treats make the perfect ending to another magical day along the Rhine.

Accommodation: Room aboard cruise boat
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Excursions Available:

1. Half-day Cologne Tour and Christmas Markets

2. Full-Day Cologne Excursion

3. Dusseldorf Walking Tour and Christmas Markets

4. Dusseldorf Bike Tour

Begin your day in Utrecht, where you can explore this charming town on a walking tour or sip beer during a special tasting tour. Choose to explore the town on a guided walking tour, wandering cobblestone streets and cozy squares, or opt for a special beer-tasting experience that showcases local flavors. However you spend it, the day blends culture, comfort, and holiday cheer in true Chicas Abroad style.

In the afternoon, enjoy the beautiful scenery as you glide to Amsterdam. Cruise the iconic canals of Amsterdam, considered the “Venice of the North” and admire the historic architecture along the way. Alternatively, taste local specialties at one of Amsterdam’s grand cafés. 

Accommodation: Room aboard cruise boat
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Excursions Available:

1. Utrecht Walking Tour

2. Utrecht Beer Tasting

3. Scenic Cruising into Amsterdam

4. Amsterdam Canal Cruise

Enjoy a final breakfast onboard as your Christmas Markets journey comes to a close in Amsterdam. Reflect on a week filled with festive cities, cozy markets, and unforgettable moments shared with an incredible group of women.

Bid farewell as you disembark and prepare for your journey home—bringing back photos, souvenirs, new friendships, and the magic of a truly special European holiday adventure. Until the next Chicas Abroad trip…

Meals: Breakfast