Cologne’s Christmas Market
Discover the magical atmosphere and traditional stalls.
Cologne and its cathedral
Enjoy the city’s festive atmosphere.
Festive stalls in Düsseldorf
Visit Düsseldorf’s Christmas Market.
The market square in Düsseldorf
Experience Germany’s festive traditions.

Christmas Markets of the Rhineland 2023

The Rhine and her Tributaries

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Enjoy the magical atmosphere of Advent

This festive mini cruise takes you on a journey along the mighty Rhine to visit three magical Christmas markets, overflowing with beautifully hand-crafted toys and colourful decorations, as well as a great variety of tempting culinary treats. Enjoy the aromas of roasting chestnuts, spicy gingerbread and hot mulled wine as you browse hundreds of traditional wooden stalls.

The cities of Cologne, Bonn and Düsseldorf provide a historic and beautiful backdrop to the winter wonderland and we’ll provide you with interactive maps and headsets to make exploring these cities independently even better. You’ll also have time to relax on board Spirit of the Rhine and watch the winter landscapes of the Rhine Valley drift by – it’s the perfect prelude to Christmas!

Itinerary

Spirit of the Rhine

16/12/2023 16th December

UK to Cologne, Germany

Travel to Cologne and embark Spirit of the Rhine.

17/12/2023 17th December

Cologne, Germany

Germany’s fourth largest city is dominated by its mighty Gothic cathedral. The city is also famous for its eponymous brand of perfume, which has now become a generic term for men's aftershave.

Expect wooden toys, arts and crafts, colourful Christmas decorations and cheery Christmas music as you explore the market.

18/12/2023 18th December

Cologne, Germany to Bonn, Germany

Depart Cologne, 0900.
Arrive Bonn, 1200.

This morning, Spirit of the Rhine will cruise to Bonn, where the illuminated facades of the Münsterplatz provide a festive backdrop to the Christmas market that fills the streets.

The old town hall is transformed into a huge Advent Calendar, with a different window being lit up each day as they city counts down to the 25th. Browse the brightly lit stalls selling beautiful handcrafted gifts and perhaps treat yourself to a glass of warming glühwein.

19/12/2023 19th December

Bonn, Germany to Düsseldorf, Germany

Depart Bonn, 0700.
Arrive Düsseldorf, 1300.

The large city of Düsseldorf is a centre for trade fairs and exhibitions, and is considered the fashion capital of Germany. During the festive period the city is home to a huge ice rink and popular Christmas market. Spend the afternoon exploring the sights. Your ship will remain moored here overnight.