European Christmas Markets
$4779-$8928
Deposit: $500
Why Travel with Chicas Abroad?
- Small, intimate groups (9-18 women)
- Perfect blend of adventure, culture, and relaxation
- Unique experiences best shared with a group of adventurous women
- Fun and experienced tour leaders who truly care about YOU
- A casual, judgment-free atmosphere
Who is Chicas Abroad?
We take women on small group adventures around the globe! We will take you out in nature to hike, kayak, bike, and do all the things with a fun group of adventure-seeking women! We also offer custom-curated adventures for you and your friends/family. Reach out to info@chicasabroad.com for more information. You can see all of our upcoming adventures and learn more about our company at chicasabroad.com
Dec 11-18, 2027
Group size: 9 – 18
Booking Deadline: Book ASAP for best cabin availability
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.
Important Notes
Activity Level – Moderate
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.
Weather
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.
Are you ready to embark on a journey of a lifetime?
Sneak Peek Trip Details
Day 1- Switzerland
Basel, Switzerland – Embarkation
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: 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.
Day 2- Germany
Breisach, Germany – Alsace & Black Forest Magic
Day 3 -France
Strasbourg, France
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:
-
Strasbourg City Tour and Christmas Markets
-
Guided Bike Tour
-
Baden Baden Walking Tour and Christmas Markets
Day 4-Germany
Ludwigshafen & Rudesheim, German
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:
-
Heidelberg Tour and Christmas Markets
-
Medieval Speyer and Christmas Markets
-
Philosopher’s Path Hike
-
Ladenburg Bike Tour
Day 5-Germany
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:
-
Siegfried’s Mechanical Instrument Cabinet and Christmas Markets
-
Siegfried’s Mechanical Instrument Cabinet and Gondola Ride
-
Rudesheim Vineyards Hike
-
Guided Bike Tour of the Rheing
Day 6-Germany
Monheim to Dusseldorf, German
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:
-
Half-day Cologne Tour and Christmas Markets
-
Full-Day Cologne Excursion
-
Dusseldorf Walking Tour and Christmas Markets
-
Dusseldorf Bike Tour
Day 7-Utrecht
Utrecht to Amsterdam
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:
-
Utrecht Walking Tour
-
Utrecht Beer Tasting
-
Scenic Cruising into Amsterdam
-
Amsterdam Canal Cruise
Day 8-Departures
Amsterdam, Netherlands – Disembarkation
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
Let’s Make This Journey Yours
What’s included
Accommodation
A room aboard the cruise boat. All rooms are double occupancy with 2 twin or queen beds. If you’d like a single room, you can purchase the single supplement at check out.
Ground Transportation
All meals included on the ship.
Tips for Local Guides
All excursions mentioned in itinerary
Some Drinks
Complimentary alcoholic drinks and soft drinks with meals and during Sip & Sail cocktail hour. Tea, coffee, and bottled water always available.
Meals
All meals included on the ship.
Excursions
All activities listed in the itinerary are included
Port Charges
$280 per person included in the registration price
Chicas Abroad Swag
We provide amazing swag items to our guests to enjoy during and after your adventure!
What’s not included
International Flights
Guests must book their own international flights to arrive at the Basel Airport (BSL) December 11 and depart Amsterdam (AMS) on Dec 18th. Exact times to arrive & depart will be provided after booking.
Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is highly recommend to cover any unforeseen events. Chicas Abroad will provide you with a link to our recommended carrier upon booking, but you may choose any carrier.
Alcoholic Beverages
There are some complimentary drinks with meals and cocktail hour. Additional alcoholic drinks and premium beverage are not included.
AmaWaterways Tips
AmaWaterways does not automatically add gratuities. Typical gratuities are 100 Euros per person for crew and 25 Euros per person for cruise manager.
Chicas Abroad Leader Tip
If you’ve had an exceptional experience, a typical gratuity for a trip of this length ranges from $350–$450.
Personal Purchase
Souvenirs and other personal purchases are not included.