Christmas Markets of the Rhine: Mainz to Düsseldorf

Disembarking the ship, you will start by boarding the Land Train for a short relaxing journey through the pretty streets of Rüdesheim. After enjoying the passing vistas of this small wine town, get ready for a musical tour through Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Museum, home to the world's largest collection of immersive self-playing instruments.

Accompanied by a guide, you will be shown some of the most beautiful musical pieces spanning three centuries, from music boxes to concert piano orchestrions, all presented to you in a humorous and curious way. You will also experience the music of the "Admiral 2", dating back to 1910 and fully restored, it is now the largest instrument in the collection.

Finally, head next door to meet a local vinter and have the chance to sample three regional wines with a guided tasting. After your tour you will return to the ship via the Land Train or you may choose to take further time to explore the famous Drosselgasse before making your own way back to your waiting ship.

Activity Level:  Walking Grade 2 - Minimal walking

Duration: 2½ hours

Please note: Expect to walk approximately 250 yards in total over flat ground with a total standing and/or walking time of approximately 45 minutes. Inside the Museum of Mechanical Music there are a number of stairs which are narrow in places. A lift is available if required and there are regular opportunities to be seated. Due to the age of the building there are also some uneven floors. This tour includes travel by land train which can occasionally be bumpy and therefore may be unsuitable for those with back and/or neck problems. This tour may also operate in reverse with the wine tasting taking place before the museum visit.

Depart from your ship on foot for this tour of Bonn, led by an expert local guide who will bring the city's rich history to life. The tour will take you through picturesque streets and iconic landmarks, starting with a scenic walk along the banks of the Rhine River, where on a clear day you can enjoy views of the majestic Seibengebirge Mountains.

Your journey then continues with a stroll to the renowned Beethoven Monument – you will find the legacy of the great composer is felt throughout the city. Next, explore the Romanesque Minster Cathedral, home to a hidden cloistered garden, that provides a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle. You will also discover the historic University of Bonn, once the Elector’s Palace, and admire the grand Baroque City Hall that adds to Bonn’s architectural charm.

The tour comes to a close with a visit to the Beethoven House Museum. Here, you will learn more about the composer himself, along with his work and early life in this charming German city. At the end of the tour your guide will accompany you back to your ship or alternatively dependent on your cruise itinerary you may have the opportunity to stay in the centre to explore further and return independently.

Activity Level:  Walking Grade 4 - Considerable walking

Duration: 2½ hours

Please note: Expect to walk approximately one-and-a-half miles over mainly flat terrain with the possibility of cobblestones. The Beethoven House Museum, whilst compact, is split across several floors with some steep stairs in between. This tour has a total standing and/or walking time of approximately two-and-a-half hours. The tour may also run in reverse, with the walking tour following the visit to Beethoven House Museum.

Dive into the most interesting facets of Cologne's past and present on this guided tour through history. First, you will see the grand exterior of Cologne Cathedral, recognised as a UNESCO-listed site in 1996. During independent time later, you may choose to go inside for a glimpse into the Roman’s previous love for ornate and intricate architecture. Then it’s time to venture into the medieval Old Town, home to characteristic churches, guilds and merchant’s houses. Stroll past the town hall and the Romanesque St Martin Church and see Cologne’s modernised and urban development. Many parts of the city have undergone a long period of restoration following heavy bombing during World War Two and it is now a diverse metropolitan city which celebrates art, culture and history and is popular with tourists and locals alike. After your guided walk you will return to your waiting ship or, depending on your cruise itinerary, it may be possible for you to remain in the centre to explore further independently.

Activity Level:  Walking Grade 4 - Considerable walking

Duration: 1½ hours

Please Note: Expect to walk approximately one-and-a-quarter miles over mostly flat ground. On the way to the Alter Markt, there is a gentle incline with some cobblestones. If a coach transfer is required for this excursion due to a less central docking location, it will add approximately 45 minutes to the overall excursion duration.