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Celebrate the festive season in style
Sail through Europe’s most magical destinations 

Festive River Cruises

There's nothing more magical than celebrating the festive season by exploring Europe's enchanting destinations, bedecked in their winter finery. As one of Europe's most iconic rivers, the Rhine flows past some of the continent's most captivating cities, from Strasbourg in France to Rotterdam in the Netherlands - all of which come into their own during the festive period. Twinkling lights, traditional Christmas markets and the scent of mulled wine line the riverbanks, creating a warm and magical atmosphere, while the Rhine Gorge takes on an almost fairytale beauty at this time of year.

With Great Rail Journeys' festive river cruises, you can experience it all in style. Weave between charming markets on our Festive Markets of the Rhine & Alsace tour, celebrate Christmas on the water aboard our Christmas on the Rhine: Cologne & Strasbourg cruise or ring in the new year in style on our New Year on the Rhine: Mainz, Basel & Rüdesheim journey. From cosy moments onboard our luxury ships to magical cities ashore, it's the perfect way to celebrate the season.

Find out more with a free brochure and enjoy weekly travel inspiration and offers in our e-newsletter.

Embrace the most wonderful time of the year

Seasonal Charm

Discover Europe on guided tours of charming riverside towns and cities. Wander through twinkling Christmas markets in Strasbourg and Cologne, explore the cobbled streets of Rüdesheim or soak up the seasonal atmosphere in historic Mainz.

Celebrating in style

Combine memorable excursions to some of Europe's most magical destinations with relaxing moments onboard. Soak up festive surroundings, seasonal dining and Christmas or New Year celebrations - all from the comfort of your luxurious ship.

Indulge with our drinks package

Enjoy a thoughtfully included drinks package onboard all our river cruises. Help yourself to tea and coffee throughout the day and savour a selection of drinks with dinner - from soft drinks and beer to celebrated regional wines sourced from the areas we visit.

4 results matching: Festive Cruise Holidays in Europe

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River CruiseRiver Cruise
Cologne Christmas MarketsCologne Christmas MarketsCologne Christmas MarketsCologne Christmas MarketsCologne Christmas Markets
Save up to £300pp
4.5 stars(185 reviews)
2026NovDec

Feel the spirit of Christmas on this cruise along the beautiful Rhine. Discovering Germany at the most magical time of the year we stop at traditional Christmas markets along the way, including Cologne, Bonn, Koblenz and Rüdesheim. Strolling through the stalls, admire the craftsmanship of local artisans and savour the flavours that define...

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Save up to £300pp
5 days from
£1,599 pp
per person
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River CruiseRiver Cruise
Strasbourg at ChristmasStrasbourg at ChristmasStrasbourg at ChristmasStrasbourg at ChristmasStrasbourg at Christmas
Save up to £300pp
4.3 stars(24 reviews)
2026NovDec

Embark on a festive cruise through Europe's most enchanting Christmas destinations on the Rhine river. Scenic landscapes and charming towns come alive with seasonal cheer in Germany and France during the most wonderful time of the year. From the twinkling lights of Koblenz's historic streets to the captivating markets of Rüdesheim,...

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Save up to £300pp
5 days from
£1,599 pp
per person
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River CruiseRiver Cruise
HeidelbergHeidelbergHeidelbergHeidelbergHeidelberg
Save up to £300pp
2026Dec

Embark on a breathtaking Rhine cruise through some of Germany's most picturesque towns and cities at this most magical time of year. From the historic charm of Mainz and Koblenz to the storybook streets of Strasbourg and Rüdesheim, experience scenic beauty and rich culture at every stop. Onboard, enjoy a festive atmosphere with a...

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Save up to £300pp
7 days from
£1,999 pp
per person
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River CruiseRiver Cruise
Basel In The MorningBasel In The MorningBasel In The MorningBasel In The MorningBasel In The Morning
Save up to £300pp
2026Dec

Celebrate the start of a new year on this unforgettable Rhine cruise, visiting charming towns and cities steeped in history and culture. From the picture-perfect streets of Mainz and Strasbourg to the romantic allure of Heidelberg and Rüdesheim, experience fascinating sights and a warm welcome at every stop. Relax onboard as you take in...

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Save up to £300pp
8 days from
£2,499 pp
per person
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Our customers love our Festive Cruise tours
German Christmas Markets of the Rhine
10/Jan
Ian
5 stars
“A magical pre-Christmas trip, organised and delivered to Great Rail Journey's usual high standards! The crew, cabin, facilities and food on the Amadeus Cara were fantastic, and the views as we cruised the Rhine gave us some amazing memories. We did get a little 'Christmas market overload' at times, but...
Collected by Trustpilot
Festive Markets of the Rhine & Alsace
18 Dec 2025
david turpie
5 stars
“My daughter and I had an amazing trip. The staff were brilliant and the catering staff dealt with my daughters allergies superbly. We loved all the trips and the help we received with getting on and off the boat with my daughters walker. have recommended it to several friends!
Collected by Trustpilot