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New Year on the Rhine: Mainz, Basel & Rüdesheim

 
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20262027
Duration
8 days
From per person
£2,299
Tour code
RLN27
Mobility Rating 2
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See in the New Year aboard a scenic Rhine cruise, exploring picturesque towns, historic cities and the stunning river landscapes of the Rhine Gorge

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 the ever-changing river landscapes and enjoy a seasonal atmosphere, with a New Year's Eve gala dinner and celebrations in the Swiss city of Basel, an unforgettable way to spend this time of year.

Unforgettable Experiences

Celebrating New Year’s Eve in Basel
Celebrating New Year’s Eve in Basel
See in the New Year with a special gala dinner onboard, as we soak up Basel’s festive atmosphere - all from the comfort of our beautifully decorated cruise ship.
Uncovering the beauty and charm of Mainz
Uncovering the beauty and charm of Mainz
Discover the allure of Mainz, where Roman history, Gothic architecture and wine culture blend with a warm, laid-back atmosphere known locally as the “Mainz feeling.”
Soaking up the sights of Strasbourg
Soaking up the sights of Strasbourg
Wander picturesque streets lined with half-timbered houses, admire the stunning cathedral and take in the unique blend of French and German culture in this enchanting riverside city.
Sailing through the spectacular Rhine Gorge
Sailing through the spectacular Rhine Gorge
Cruise past dramatic cliffs, hilltop castles and terraced vineyards in one of Europe’s most breathtaking river landscapes, on a scenic journey through this UNESCO-listed stretch of the Rhine Valley.
Discovering historic Speyer
Discovering historic Speyer
Step into one of Germany’s oldest cities, where Romanesque architecture, rich history and a timeless charm offer a glimpse into the heart of the Holy Roman Empire.

Itinerary

DAY1Travelling to Cologne where we board our luxurious ship

Your festive holiday begins at London St Pancras, where you meet the Tour Manager and rest of the group before boarding the Eurostar to Brussels.

Arriving in the Belgian capital, we change trains and continue to Cologne, where we board our luxurious cruise ship, the MS Amadeus Amara, receiving a welcome cocktail on arrival.

With seasonal touches, our ship offers a warm and welcoming retreat for the festive journey ahead. After settling in, we enjoy our first dinner and drinks package onboard the ship as we set sail towards the charming city of Mainz.

Includes
  • Dinner
DAY3A day taking in the sights of Strasbourg

Today we explore the picturesque city of Strasbourg, where French and German influences blend seamlessly in everything from the architecture to the cuisine. On a guided tour this morning, we admire the city's highlights, from the striking Gothic cathedral to the elegant Place Kléber, soaking up the history on every corner.

We return to the ship for lunch, before a free afternoon to explore independently awaits. You may decide to wander the charming Petite France district, a maze of canals, cobbled lanes and half-timbered houses, or take a winter stroll through Parc de l'Orangerie, a peaceful park with a lake, waterfall and French-style promenade. The 17th-century Barrage Vauban bridge is a great spot to take in panoramic views over the city and River III.

This evening, we regroup onboard for dinner after a day discovering one of the Rhine's most enchanting cities.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY4Morning sightseeing and New Year celebrations in Basel

This morning we arrive in Basel, Switzerland's cultural capital, where a guided tour introduces us to its fascinating blend of old and new. Here, we wander through the beautifully preserved Old Town, admiring landmarks along the way such as the red sandstone Town Hall, the impressive Basel Minster and the scenic views across the Rhine.

After lunch onboard, the afternoon is yours to explore at your own pace. Perhaps visit one of the city's renowned museums or art galleries, take a stroll through the festively decorated streets or enjoy a warm drink in cosy café. Basel's unique blend of French, German and Swiss influences make it fascinating to discover.

This evening, we enjoy a glass of mulled wine before gathering for our spectacular New Year's Eve gala dinner - a highlight of the cruise, with a choice between traditional German or British food. We celebrate with a front-row seat to Basel's fireworks from the ship, a magical way to ring in the new year.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY5New Year’s cruise along the breathtaking Rhine

Embrace the new year with a relaxing full day spent cruising along the Rhine, watching the ever-changing views unfold outside your window. To make the most of the ship's facilities, head to the viewing deck to soak up the scenery, unwind with a drink in the cosy bar or make use of the onboard gym and enjoy a workout.

After a leisurely lunch, enjoy a range of festive activities onboard. Get creative with a gingerbread-making session, a fun way to embrace the season, followed by a traditional afternoon tea featuring a selection of seasonal favourites.

This evening, we enjoy dinner after a relaxing day sailing and admiring the views of the Rhine.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY6The historic cities of Speyer and Heidelberg

This morning, there is time to explore the cultural city of Speyer at leisure. As one of Germany's oldest cities, it offers visitors a genuine insight into the heart of the Holy Roman Empire, while still maintaining a lively, present-day charm. Wander through the historic streets and soak up the atmosphere at your own pace.

We return to the ship for a leisurely lunch as we sail onwards to Heidelberg, taking in the scenic river views of the Rhine along the way.

This afternoon, we enjoy a guided tour of Heidelberg, where you'll discover its rich heritage and romantic charm. Nestled between the Neckar River and the foothills of the Odenwald forest, it is considered to be one of Germany's most beautiful cities and has inspired many poets and artists of Romanticism. Here, you can stroll the charming Old Town, admire the iconic Heidelberg Castle and take in the picturesque views from the Karl Theodor Bridge.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY7Rüdesheim and sailing the picturesque Rhine Gorge to Koblenz

We explore the wine-making town of Rüdesheim after breakfast this morning, known for its picturesque setting, wine culture and historic charm. With free time here, you can visit Rüdesheim Castle for an insight into the region's past or stroll down Drösselgasse, a picturesque street lined with cosy wine bars and quaint shops.

After returning to the ship for lunch, we sail onward to Koblenz, a city nestled at the confluence on the Rhine and Moselle rivers. Enroute, we experience a highlight of the trip, sailing through the breathtaking Rhine Gorge. This UNESCO World Heritage site and one of the most scenic stretches of the Rhine is known for its medieval castles, vineyards and the mythical Lorelei Rock.

On arrival in Koblenz, there is time at leisure to take in the scenic beauty and history of this relaxed city. Admire landmarks including the impressive Ehrenbreitstein Fortress or take in views of the Deutsches Eck, where the two rivers meet in an impressive natural confluence.

Includes
  • Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY8Homeward bound

We've journeyed through some of the Rhine's most charming towns and cities, from the storybook streets of Mainz and Strasbourg to the historic wonders of Speyer and Heidelberg. Along the way, we celebrated New Year's Eve in style with a spectacular firework display over the Rhine in Basel, and soaked up the ever-changing scenery of vineyards, castles and riverbanks villages that define this iconic river.

After breakfast this morning, your cruise comes to an end as we make our way to Cologne railway station. We continue by rail to Brussels and join the Eurostar to London St Pancras, where your festive holiday concludes and you are free to make your own way home.

Includes
  • Breakfast

Additional information

Mobility information

Due to the nature of our tours they are generally unsuitable for those with restricted mobility. If you’d like to discuss any particular holiday with us in this respect, then please don’t hesitate to call us.

What’s included on the tour?

Trains & Ships

More information on the different trains and ships that are used on this tour.

MS Amadeus Amara Cabin DS | Great Rail Journeys

Travel the rivers in the utmost comfort and style when you choose to stay in one of our incredible Deluxe Suites. These cabins are larger than the others on board, at 26.4 square metres, and come with additional touches that add just that extra touch of opulence, including private walk-out balconies and lounge areas.

MS Amadeus Amara Cabin A1 | Great Rail Journeys

Discover the perfect balance of luxury and relaxation when you choose to stay in one of our Deluxe Staterooms. Offering 17.5 square metres, these cabins offer plenty of room to ensure a comfortable experience, with a drop-down panoramic window to take in the river views.

MS Amadeus Amara Cabin B1 | Great Rail Journeys

Discover the perfect balance of luxury and relaxation when you choose to stay in one of our Deluxe Staterooms. Offering 17.5 square metres, these cabins offer plenty of room to ensure a comfortable experience, with a drop-down panoramic window to take in the river views.

MS Amadeus Amara Cabin C1 | Great Rail Journeys

Designed with both style and practicality in mind, our 16 square metre Classic Staterooms offer a peaceful and well-equipped space for your journey, offering an inviting space to relax and unwind after an engaging day of cruising or excursions.

Enhance your holiday

London Hotels

Spending a night in London before your tour can make such a difference to the first day of your holiday - you can arrive in the capital in good time, relaxed and ready to join your Tour Manager the next morning. You may even want to take in a show on the West End or dine in one of London's famous restaurants. Perhaps on your return to London, you would like to break your journey with an overnight stay before continuing home.

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We can book a wide range of hotels in central London or, for our holidays beginning with a flight, at Heathrow, Gatwick, or Manchester Airport for the night before or after your holiday. If you require a quote for single occupancy at any of the hotels, please contact us on 01904 734 805.

London hotels
UK rail connections

Buying tickets for UK train services can be a tricky business - there are so many fares to choose from, each with different rules and restrictions. As you are connecting with an international departure, we strongly recommend that you book a fully flexible ticket to ensure that should the departure times for your holiday change, your rail ticket can allow for these changes.

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We can book fully-flexible UK rail tickets from your local station to join your holiday whether this be a European holiday from St Pancras or a UK holiday. The prices are competitive and tickets are not restricted to a particular train or time of day, and in most cases offer you a free choice of routes.

For an up to date quote from your local station, please ask one of our Tour Advisors.

UK train tickets