Day 1: Arrive Munich, Germany
Welcome to Munich. Upon arrival, make your own way to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure.
You may wish to take a gentle stroll through the city, relax after your flight, or begin soaking up the festive atmosphere ahead of the Christmas markets to come.
OVERNIGHT: Alpen Hotel München, Munich or similar
MEALS: Nil
Day 2: Munich ~ Passau, Germany ~ Embark Ship
After breakfast this morning, make your own way to the train station and board your train to Passau. The journey takes approximately 2.5 hours and is a comfortable way to travel through the Bavarian countryside.
Welcome to Passau, the starting point of your festive Danube River cruise. Known as the City of Three Rivers, Passau sits at the meeting point of the Danube, Inn, and Ilz rivers and is famous for its baroque architecture, rich church history, and charming old town.
On arrival, you may have some free time to explore Passau before embarkation. Wander through the historic centre with its pastel-coloured buildings and cobbled streets, or visit St Stephen’s Cathedral, home to one of the world’s largest cathedral organs.
This afternoon, transfer to the ship and embark on your festive Danube River cruise. Settle into your cabin and enjoy the atmosphere as the ship departs Passau and begins its journey along the Danube, surrounded by wintry scenery and Christmas cheer.
NOTE: Luggage lockers are available at Passau train station if required. The group transfer from the train station to the ship departs at 3:00 pm, so please ensure you are at Passau station by this time.
PORT TIMES:
Passau: Departure: 4:00PM
PORT ADDRESS:
Racklau 3a
94036 Passau
NOTE: Pier allocation can change at short notice.
OVERNIGHT: A-ROSA DONNA
MEALS: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 3: Wachau Valley ~ Vienna, Austria
This morning, enjoy scenic cruising through the breathtaking Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage listed region celebrated for its natural beauty, historic villages, and vineyard covered hillsides. As the Danube winds its way through this magical landscape, take in uninterrupted views of medieval ruins, charming riverside towns, and peaceful winter scenery. This stretch of the river is a true highlight of your festive Danube cruise.
Arrive in Vienna this afternoon, a city that truly comes alive during the Christmas season. Grand squares and elegant boulevards are transformed into festive wonderlands, filled with the scent of cinnamon, mulled wine, and sweet seasonal treats.
As you explore Vienna’s famous Christmas markets, Christmas music drifts through the streets and traditional arts, crafts, and decorations are beautifully displayed against the city’s imperial architecture. From Rathausplatz to Stephansplatz, each market offers its own unique atmosphere.
Spend the evening at leisure soaking up the festive charm, wandering through illuminated streets, or enjoying a warm drink at one of the many market stalls. Tonight, Vienna invites you to slow down, explore, and simply enjoy the magic of the season.
PORT TIMES:
Vienna: Arrival: 2:00PM | Departure: 11:59PM
OVERNIGHT: A-ROSA DONNA
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4: Dürnstein ~ Melk, Austria
This morning, arrive in the picturesque village of Dürnstein, one of the most celebrated stops along the Austrian Danube. Nestled among vineyard covered hills, Dürnstein is where terraced vineyards meet medieval architecture.
Enjoy time at leisure to wander through the charming old town, visit the distinctive blue tower of Dürnstein Abbey, or take a short walk up to the ruins of Dürnstein Castle. It was here that England’s King Richard the Lionheart was famously imprisoned in the 12th century. From the castle ruins, enjoy sweeping views across the Danube and the surrounding Wachau Valley.
This afternoon, arrive in Melk, often referred to as the Gateway to the Wachau Valley. Dominating the town is the magnificent Melk Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage listed Benedictine monastery perched high above the Danube.
Spend time exploring Melk at your leisure, admiring the abbey’s impressive baroque architecture and enjoying panoramic views across the river and surrounding countryside. The blend of historic charm and natural beauty makes Melk a memorable highlight of your festive Danube cruise.
PORT TIMES:
Dürnstein: Arrival: 7:00AM | Departure: 12:00PM
Melk: Arrival: 3:00PM | Departure: 9:00PM
OVERNIGHT: A-ROSA DONNA
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Linz, Austria
Today, explore the vibrant city of Linz, set along the banks of the Danube and known for its lively blend of culture, history, and contemporary art. Linz offers an engaging contrast between historic architecture and modern creativity.
During the Christmas season, the city becomes especially enchanting, with several Christmas markets spread throughout the old town. Wander through festive stalls, sample seasonal treats, and soak up the cheerful atmosphere set against baroque squares and beautifully illuminated landmarks.
Spend the day at leisure exploring the old town, strolling along the Danube promenade, or visiting one of Linz’s museums and galleries. As evening approaches, return to the ship and continue your festive journey along the Danube.
PORT TIMES:
Linz: Arrival: 7:00AM | Departure: 7:30PM
OVERNIGHT: A-ROSA DONNA
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Passau ~ Disembark Ship ~ Frankfurt
This morning, your festive Danube River cruise comes to an end in Passau. After breakfast, disembark the ship and enjoy a group transfer to the train station for your onward train journey to Frankfurt (exact transfer timing TBC once onboard).
Upon arrival in Frankfurt, make your own way to your hotel and enjoy the remainder of the day at leisure. You may wish to relax after your journey or head out to explore the city and soak up the festive atmosphere.
PORT TIMES:
Passau: Arrival: 7:00AM
OVERNIGHT: Hotel Monopol, Frankfurt or similar
MEALS: Breakfast
Day 7: Frankfurt ~ Cologne ~ Embark Ship
After breakfast this morning, make your own way to the train station and board your train to Cologne.
Welcome to Cologne, the starting point of your festive Rhine River cruise. After arriving in this historic city, enjoy time to explore at your own pace. Admire Cologne’s impressive architecture and iconic landmarks, including the world-famous Cologne Cathedral.
This afternoon, soak up the festive atmosphere at the Christmas markets located near the cathedral. You may wish to sample a traditional Weckmänner, a classic German yeast pastry, and enjoy a warming cup of hot punch as the stalls glow with seasonal lights.
Later this evening, transfer to the ship and embark on your Christmas cruise along the Rhine. Settle into your cabin, enjoy your first dinner onboard, and begin your magical journey through Europe’s festive heartland.
NOTE: The group transfer from the train station to the ship departs at 3:00 pm. Please ensure you are at Cologne train station by this time.
PORT TIMES:
Cologne: Departure: 5:00PM
PORT ADDRESS:
Siegburger Strasse 104
Drehbruecke Deutz
50679 Koeln (Cologne)
NOTE: Pier allocation can change at short notice.
OVERNIGHT: A-ROSA SILVA
MEALS: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 8: Rüdesheim, Germany
This morning, arrive in the charming town of Rüdesheim, set in the heart of the Rhine Valley and renowned for its romantic scenery, music, and wine traditions. This picturesque destination has inspired poets and composers for centuries, including Johannes Brahms, who composed his Third Symphony here.
As you explore, you may hear Christmas carols drifting through the narrow laneways, adding to the festive atmosphere. Be sure to try the local speciality, Rüdesheimer Kaffee, a warming coffee drink invented here and a must try during your visit.
You may choose to enjoy time at leisure or join an optional guided excursion to experience Rüdesheim in full Christmas splendour. Stroll through the atmospheric Christmas market, visit the town’s charming marketplace, wander along the famous Drosselgasse, and enjoy views along the Rhine promenade. You may also see Germany’s largest nativity scene, a true seasonal highlight.
PORT TIMES:
Rüdesheim: Arrival: 10:00AM | Departure: 6:00PM
OVERNIGHT: A-ROSA SILVA
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS:
Rüdesheim in Christmas Splendour – Guided Walking Tour
Just before Christmas, Rüdesheim comes alive with festive charm. Stroll through the atmospheric Christmas market with your guide, visit the largest nativity scene in Germany, and sample local mulled wine. Along the way, discover the historic marketplace, the famous Drosselgasse, and the scenic Rhine promenade. If you prefer not to return to the ship immediately, you may stay in the old town and enjoy the peaceful festive atmosphere at your own pace.
- Duration: Approx. 2 hours
- Transport: Walking
- Activity Level: Moderate
Day 9: Germersheim (Speyer), Germany
Guten Tag and welcome to Germersheim, your gateway to the historic city of Speyer. With a history spanning more than 2,000 years, Speyer is one of Germany’s oldest cities and is especially atmospheric in the lead up to Christmas.
During your time ashore, we recommend visiting the magnificent Speyer Cathedral, the city’s most important landmark and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This Romanesque masterpiece dominates the skyline and is considered one of the most significant buildings of its kind in Europe.
You may choose to explore independently or join one of the optional excursions below, offering a deeper insight into the Palatinate region and its rich history, wine culture, and picturesque towns.
Return to the ship this evening and continue your festive Rhine River cruise.
PORT TIMES:
Speyer: Arrival: 8:00AM | Departure: 7:00PM
OVERNIGHT: A-ROSA SILVA
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS:
Time Travel Through Speyer – Guided Walking Tour
Step back in time on a guided walk through Speyer’s historic old town with a guide in period costume. Learn fascinating stories of emperors and kings and visit the iconic cathedral.
- Duration: Approx. 3.5 hours
- Transport: Coach and Walking
- Activity Level: Moderate
Picturesque Heidelberg
Visit one of Germany’s most romantic cities, set on the Neckar River and crowned by its famous castle ruins. Explore the old town, Old Bridge, Church of the Holy Spirit, and enjoy free time before returning to the ship.
- Duration: Approx. 4.5 hours
- Transport: Coach and walking
- Activity Level: Moderate
Day 10: Strasbourg (Kehl), France
This morning, arrive in Kehl and cross into Strasbourg, widely regarded as the Capital of Christmas. During the festive season, Strasbourg is truly magical, with glittering Christmas markets, medieval half-timbered houses, and elegant city palaces beautifully decorated for the season.
The absolute highlight is Strasbourg Cathedral, an extraordinary Gothic masterpiece that dominates the skyline. From its observation deck, enjoy breathtaking views across the city, which resemble a miniature railway landscape during the Christmas period.
Spend time exploring the atmospheric old town, known as La Petite France, with its canals, cobbled streets, and charming shopfronts. You may choose to explore independently or join the optional excursion below to experience Strasbourg in greater depth.
Return to the ship this evening and continue your festive Rhine River cruise.
PORT TIMES:
Strasbourg: Arrival: 7:00AM | Departure: 6:00PM
OVERNIGHT: A-ROSA SILVA
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS:
Christmas Time in Strasbourg
Experience the festive heart of Strasbourg on a guided tour through the old town, visiting the famous Strasbourg Minster and historic timber framed houses. Afterwards, enjoy free time to explore France’s oldest Christmas market at your own pace.
- Duration: Approx. 4 hours
- Transport: Coach and walking
- Activity Level: Moderate
Day 11: Wiesbaden ~ Loreley Valley ~ Koblenz, Germany
This morning, arrive in historic Wiesbaden, one of Germany’s oldest spa cities with more than 2,000 years of history. During the Christmas season, Wiesbaden is particularly atmospheric, with festive lights, seasonal stalls, and a traditional Christmas market set around Schlossplatz (Palace Square) and the striking Marktkirche (Market Church). The illuminated church and surrounding historic buildings create a wonderful festive setting, ideal for exploring at a relaxed pace.
Alternatively, you may choose to join an optional excursion to nearby Mainz, just across the Rhine. Here, discover a charming old town shaped by Roman heritage, half-timbered houses, and the impressive Mainz Cathedral. Located in the heart of Germany’s wine country, Mainz offers a rich blend of history, culture, and seasonal traditions, especially lively during the Christmas period.
This afternoon, sit back and relax as the ship cruises through the legendary Loreley Valley. Steep cliffs, wintry forests, and charming riverside villages line this famous stretch of the Rhine. According to legend, the Loreley, a beautiful nymph, once sat atop the cliffs and lured sailors with her song, a tale that continues to capture the imagination.
Arrive in Koblenz in the early evening and enjoy time ashore before returning to the ship. Stroll through the city and admire its festive lights and picturesque riverside setting at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle rivers. Back on board, delicious culinary delights await.
PORT TIMES:
Wiesbaden: Arrival 6:00AM | Departure 12:00PM
Loreley Valley: Arrival 1:00PM | Departure TBC
Koblenz: Arrival 6:30PM | Departure 9:30PM
OVERNIGHT: A-ROSA SILVA
MEALS: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS:
Sparkling Experiences: Wiesbaden & Henkell Freixenet
Enjoy a scenic journey through Wiesbaden by little train, followed by a behind-the-scenes visit and tasting at the renowned Henkell Freixenet sparkling wine cellars.
- Duration: Approx. 3.5 hours
- Transport: Walking and little train
- Activity Level: Easy to Moderate
An Evening Walk Through Koblenz
Enjoy a guided evening stroll through Koblenz, visiting the Moselle River, Deutsches Eck, and the historic old town. Learn about the city’s Roman roots and medieval heritage along the way.
- Duration: Approx. 1.5 hours
- Transport: Walking
- Activity Level: Moderate
Day 12: Cologne ~ Disembark Ship ~ Frankfurt ~ Departure
This morning, your festive Rhine River cruise comes to an end in Cologne. After breakfast, disembark the ship and enjoy a group transfer to the train station for your onward train journey to Frankfurt Airport (exact transfer timing TBC once onboard), where you will board your flight home.
If time permits before your departure, we recommend taking the opportunity to explore Cologne a little further. A visit to the world-famous Cologne Cathedral is a must. This iconic Gothic masterpiece dominates the skyline and is one of Germany’s most recognisable landmarks.
With memories of festive markets, historic towns, and scenic Rhine and Danube cruising, your journey comes to a close. We hope you have enjoyed a wonderful Christmas season experience and look forward to welcoming you again on another MyHoliday2 journey.
PORT TIMES:
Cologne: Arrival 5:00AM
MEALS: Breakfast
