This Christmastime river cruise is a unique and unforgettable way to celebrate the season! Board your Avalon Suite Ship® in Frankfurt, Germany, then sail up the Rhine River to Basel, Switzerland, passing beautiful views and quaint villages festively lit and decorated. At every stop, you’ll experience the magical charm of this time of year, with the towns decked out in festive lights and décor, and the Christmas markets waiting to be explored. This one-of-a-kind Christmas river cruise through France and Germany takes you on an excursion to Heidelberg, Germany, to visit the fascinating ruins of Heidelberg Castle, towering magnificently over the city. At this time of year, an ice rink at the foot of the castle glistens with good cheer where a very special Christmas market spans more than five town squares! Delight in the holiday cheer with Glühwein (hot mulled wine), bratwurst, and other local specialties. You’ll also find an array of crafts, Christmas decorations, and gifts to carry the festive charm home. Strasbourg, located on the border of France and Germany, perfectly blends the cultures of both countries. Home to one of the oldest and finest Christmas markets in Europe-this stunning city dates back to the 16th century. Breathe in the aromas of mulled wine, spice cake, and biscuits as you bask in the holiday atmosphere, including a visit to Strasbourg Cathedral. Marvel at the Gothic masterpiece made of red sandstone, ancient murals, and fascinating astronomical clock. This Christmastime cruise along the Rhine River also takes you to Breisach-the the gateway to Germany’s Black Forest. Discover its unrivaled natural beauty and signature Black Forest ham, cherry cake, and the cuckoo clock. Storybook Christmas charm doesn’t get better than this as smoke curls from the chimneys of traditional Black Forest houses.

Your Christmastime vacation in Europe continues as you disembark your Avalon Suite Ship® in Basel, Switzerland. Transfer to Lucerne to explore this lovely city with more delights to unwrap with the perfect gift of this Rhine River cruise and Swiss vacation of a lifetime.