Christmas & New Year: From the Rhine to the Danube

Arrive in Cologne and board your ship in the late afternoon. If you're here before then, enjoy free time in Cologne.  

Sit down to your first dinner on board before we begin our journey upstream, sailing overnight. 

Wake up in the historic city of Koblenz, strategically situated at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle. This 2,000-year-old city boasts a mighty fortress and enchanting half-timbered buildings beneath forested hillsides, offering timeless Rhineland appeal.

After breakfast, discover Koblenz’s maze of medieval buildings in the Altstadt – old town – on a guided tour. As you wander, historic buildings appear seemingly at every turn; see a former mint, the Four Towers – 17th-century houses with striking turrets set at a crossroads – and many fascinating squares and churches, including the 9th-century Basilica of Saint Kastor.

Later, enjoy time at leisure to peruse stalls laden with festive treats at the Christmas markets still spread across the city's historic squares, where the scent of mulled wine and seasonal delicacies fills the air beneath a canopy of twinkling lights, or sequester yourself in a cosy café and watch the world pass by.

Back on board for lunch, we enjoy an afternoon sailing. As the light begins to fade, we pass through the magnificent Rhine Gorge; wrap up warm and take to the deck for an invigorating breath of frosty air as we pass through the outstandingly beautiful scenery, where the river flows a little faster, the vineyard-covered valley sides are steeper and ruined castles sit atop rocky crags. Here, where the swifter current sweeps between the narrowing valley sides that tower above, the river twists and turns towards the famous Loreley Rock, where legend has it, unsuspecting sailors were lured to their deaths by enchanting maidens.

Our voyage also takes us through Boppard Bend, a dramatic 180-degree horseshoe curve that reveals the ever-changing panoramas of steep terraced vineyards, deep forests and towering clifftops.

As the ship glides through these legendary stretches of river, take a moment to savour the experience with a steaming mug of Glühwein in hand. Then, enjoy dinner, surrounded by twinkling festive decorations and wrapped in the cosy atmosphere on board. 

We spend the day before Christmas in Rüdesheim, where this morning we visit Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet and explore the town at leisure.

Join us on a fantastical adventure into the world of automatic musical instruments at the Brömserhof, a former noble residence and estate now home to Siegfried's excellent mechanical music cabinet. It houses a collection of around 350 intricate antique musical instruments and musical boxes from all over the world, many of which are in working order and still play the delicate sounds of yesteryear.

You will also have time to explore Rüdesheim’s quaint streets lined with crooked houses and decorated with festive cheer. Sights to see here include the Market Place, Brömserburg Castle and the charming Klunkhardshof, a monumental half-timbered building dating back to the first half of the 16th century. 

Spend the afternoon enjoying the facilities on board as we continue our cruise, leaving the Rhine River onto the Main River, passing Mainz and Frankfurt on our way.  Due to locks and low bridges, the sun deck will be closed between Mainz and Regensburg. However, the other outside areas in front of the lounge and the Riverview Kitchen are still accessible. Find a comfortable seat in the lounge to take in the lovely views of lush woodland and fertile vineyards as they drift by. As evening approaches, why not enjoy an apéritif in the bar before returning to the onboard restaurant for another masterful meal? 

Enjoy a leisurely start to your Christmas Day with breakfast on board before free time to explore Aschaffenburg at leisure. With much of the town quietly observing the holiday, it’s the ideal time to stroll along the river promenade, tracing the path of the River Main, and enjoy views of Johannisburg Castle. Keep an eye out for the Perth Inch walkway – an unexpected link to Aschaffenburg’s twin-town connection with Perth in Scotland.

Take the glass elevator up to the old town to wander through narrow, cobbled streets lined with 10th-century churches.

You might catch sight of local families taking a Christmas Day walk before returning home to share a festive feast. 

We set sail again during lunch on board, so why not settle in and enjoy the warmth as new landscapes drift by. We arrive in Miltenberg as our special Gala Dinner is served. Expect a festive atmosphere filled with seasonal cheer, exquisite cuisine prepared by our talented chefs, and the joy of celebrating this most wonderful time of year in unforgettable surroundings.  

After dinner, we retire to the lounge for an evening of music celebrating the magic of Christmas. This special concert blends beloved Christmas songs, traditional carols and celebrated classic pieces, all thoughtfully reimagined through elegant new arrangements.

Wake up in Miltenberg, a beautifully preserved medieval village whose labyrinth of winding alleys and lanes begs exploration. And so, this morning we do exactly that, as our local guide shows us the highlights of this charming destination.

Backed by dense emerald-green forest, this picturesque stop-off has a feel of a Brothers Grimm fairy tale, complete with a castle nestled into the lush, tree-clad hillside. Admire the impressive gatehouse, which stands like a proud guardian of the village, and wander across the charming marketplace, lined with traditional fachwerk buildings instantly recognisable by their timber-framed grids.

The story goes that locals were allowed to collect free wood from the surrounding forests, which explains the abundance of this architectural style. Highlights of this beautiful square include the trickling fountain, ornately carved from stone and complete with dancing cherubs, and the intricately detailed Gasthaus Zum Riesen, which claims to be Germany’s oldest tavern. If you would like to have more time to explore independently, you can choose a shorter orientation walk

Later this morning, enjoy a festive Boxing Day brunch in the onboard restaurant, a relaxed and indulgent way to continue your Christmas celebrations as we continue our cruise, soaking in the scenic beauty of the Main.

As the sun drops below the horizon, we moor in Wertheim, giving you time to soak up the festive atmosphere of this storybook wonderland, with its medieval half-timbered houses illuminated by the soft, warm glow of thousands of fairy lights, while the ancient stone ruins of Wertheim's mighty castle stand sentinel above.  

We continue sailing as we sit down with a digestif after another delicious dinner on board this evening.

One of the delights of river cruising is indulging in complete relaxation, so this morning, enjoy a leisurely breakfast as we cruise along the Main then perhaps catch up on some reading or simply watch the world float by.

We glide into our mooring in Würzburg, one of Bavaria's loveliest riverside towns, after lunch, and take a short coach ride to the Würzburg Residence. Commissioned by the powerful Prince-Bishops of the 18th century, this UNESCO-listed palace is considered Germany’s finest example of Baroque architecture. Here, our guided tour begins with a stroll through the formal Court Garden before stepping inside to explore its lavish interiors, including the grand staircase crowned by Tiepolo’s vast ceiling fresco – one of the largest in the world.

Afterwards, there’s some time to explore independently – highlights include the opulent Imperial Apartments, the Mirror Cabinet or the Court Church.

We’ll then regroup and make our way into the old town, where we’ll discover the city’s rich Franconian heritage before finishing at the Old Main Bridge, lined with statues of saints and offering sweeping views of the river, vineyards and hilltop Marienberg Fortress.

After dinner this evening, settle in for a captivating string performance where classical masterpieces meet familiar melodies from film and TV. After the show, we’ll continue our journey, sailing overnight to Volkach. 

Arriving in Volkach during breakfast, today you have a choice of included experiences: 

Take a coach from Volkach , passing vine-clad fields and medieval towns. Just under an hour later, we’ll arrive at gorgeous Rothenburg ob der Tauber, crowning a hill with glorious views over the meandering river Tauber below. Here, we follow a guide through the historic centre, stopping at the famous Plönlein, one of Germany’s most photographed corners, before reaching Market Square. After the short tour, there’s time to explore its narrow, cobbled streets lined with tall gabled half-timbered houses. 

Alternatively, stay in Volkach and discover this delightful wine-growing town. Passing under the imposing Upper Gate, we’ll explore the old town’s Franconian half-timber houses and Baroque buildings. After our short walking tour, there’s free time to wander Market Square, browse local shops or perhaps sample a glass of the region’s celebrated wines. Volkach sits at the heart of Franconia’s wine country, where crisp, dry Silvaner grapes thrive on the surrounding slopes. Keep an eye out for the distinctive Bocksbeutel bottle too – the flattened green flask that’s become a symbol of Franconian winemaking.

After a morning of discoveries, we return to the ship and, during lunch, commence sailing through Germany’s rural heart towards our next destination. Later, indulge in afternoon tea and, perhaps, our chef’s special patisserie, while being sure to leave room for the evening’s dinner.

Another day brings another new view when you draw back the curtains in your cabin.

Bamberg is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful small towns in Europe, and UNESCO has confirmed this by declaring it a World Heritage Site. Planned by Emperor Heinrich II in the 11th century as a Franconian capital as grand as Rome, Bamberg sits on seven lush green hills, akin to its Italian inspiration.

Join the guided tour and see the historic old town and the impressive multi-spired cathedral; perhaps the most noticeable and intriguing landmark is Bamberg’s old town hall, which sits on an island in the middle of the burbling river, flanked by bridges on either side. From here you can also see ‘Little Venice’ – a delightful cluster of former fishermen’s houses built along the waterfront, mostly dating from the Middle Ages. 

During another splendid lunch on board, we leave the Main River and join the Main-Danube Canal, as we continue on to Nuremberg. Take the afternoon to enjoy the ship’s five-star facilities, while taking in the magnificent undulating landscape as we venture deeper into this beautifully scenic region. 

Nuremberg is often remembered for its role in WWII, notably as the site of major Nazi rallies and, later, the historic war crime trials. But beyond its infamous history, the Bavarian city captivates visitors with its cobbled streets with classic half-timbered houses, an enchanting castle (rebuilt after wartime bombings) and many historic landmarks. These include the Church of Saint Lawrence, a stunning example of Gothic architecture, and the intricate Church of Our Lady, which features a working mechanical clock dating from 1506 and overlooks the bustling Hauptmarkt square – renowned for its elaborate fountain resembling a Gothic church tower.

This morning you have two choices: 

Choose to explore Nuremberg's medieval heart on a panoramic coach tour, seeing many of the city's most famous monuments and learning about its rich history before arriving near the Hauptmarkt, where you'll enjoy free time to explore the Old Town at leisure. You might stroll along picturesque Weißgerbergasse, one of Germany's best-preserved medieval streets, admire the Church of Our Lady or pause beside the aptly named Schöner Brunnen (Beautiful Fountain). 

The panoramic coach tour culminates in a visit to the imperial Nuremberg Castle. Once a residence of the Holy Roman Emperors, the fortress features the opulent Knights’ and Imperial Hall, a Romanesque double chapel, and engaging exhibits that explore the inner workings of the empire. Enjoy sweeping views from Sinwell Tower and peer down into the Deep Well before continuing to the old town for a guided walk highlighting key medieval landmarks such as Hauptmarkt Square - home to the enchanting Christmas Markets - the Old City Hall, the Church of Our Lady and the timber-framed house of celebrated Renaissance artist Albrecht Dürer, before finishing at Schöner Brunnen.

Returning to the ship for lunch, there’s plenty of time to relax and enjoy the views along the Altmühl Valley, with its dramatic limestone outcrops, castles and historic towns. We continue sailing during dinner this evening and overnight, traversing a remarkable series of locks that carry us to the summit of the Main–Danube Canal before descending towards Kelheim. 

We arrive in Kelheim by breakfast time on New Year’s Eve. Nestled at the meeting point of the Danube and Altmühl rivers, Kelheim sits on the edge of a beautiful nature park, where forested hills, limestone cliffs and winding waterways create some of Bavaria's most captivating scenery.

Here, we set off to explore, beginning with a short walk through the historic old town. We then ascend the hilltop by coach to Liberation Hall, marvelling at its impressive facade and sweeping views over the Danube valley towards the gorge where the river meanders through high limestone cliffs. A scenic drive through the beautiful Altmühl Valley completes the morning’s discoveries before we return to the ship. 

After lunch, spend the afternoon relaxing on board on our way to Regensburg, where we moor before we gather to ring in the New Year in true Riviera style.

You’ll enjoy a superb New Year’s Eve dinner in the ship’s beautifully adorned restaurant, where our chefs will serve a specially curated menu to mark the occasion. After dinner, make your way to the lounge – transformed with seasonal décor – for a lively musical performance. Enjoy the powerful, resonant tones of brass instruments as a group of talented musicians fill the lounge with festive energy, bringing the region’s rich heritage to life through traditional folk music, polkas, and waltzes.  

As midnight approaches, gather with fellow guests to welcome the new year. With our DJ setting the mood, and drinks and canapés served at midnight, it’s the perfect way to celebrate.

After an exciting evening welcoming in the new year, you can enjoy a slower start to the morning. Rest on board and linger over breakfast or join our local guide mid-morning for a tour of Regensburg.  

Formerly an important garrison guarding the most north-westerly point of the Roman Empire, whose camp gate, the Porta Praetoria, can still be seen, we take in the sights of its historic, UNESCO-protected centre. See the wealthy merchants’ houses, the Old Town Hall. Stroll along the iconic stone bridge; see the Altes Rathaus – the seat of the Diet, or parliament, of the Holy Roman Empire from 1663 to 1806 – and gaze in wonder at the Gothic cathedral.

Regensburg calls itself ‘Germany’s medieval miracle’, and it’s hard to argue as you wander along the glorious winding streets and elegant squares of the old town. 

We wave goodbye to Regensburg during lunch and sail through the afternoon. Join us later for high tea – cups that clink and cakes that disappear a little too quickly, accompanied by enchanting riverside scenery. 

Another day dawns as our journey brings us to Passau, the last town we stop at in Germany, nestling at the convergence of three rivers: the Danube, Inn and Ilz. After breakfast, you have the choice of two excursions:

Take the opportunity to explore the ‘Three Rivers City’, overlooked by the Veste Oberhaus, a 13th-century hilltop fortress, on our guided tour. The old town below is known for its Baroque architecture, including Saint Stephen’s Cathedral, where the world’s largest cathedral organ sounds (currently under renovation). 

If the weather allows, you may instead choose to join a guide on an active hike to Veste Oberhaus. Reaching the 13th-century defensive fortress requires a picturesque hike along a steep, wooded path with loose rocks and occasional steps, so a good level of fitness and appropriate footwear are a must. As your reward, once we reach the top, we'll be treated to superb views of the city and into Austria. The Veste Oberhaus, built by the prince-bishops, majestically overlooks Passau with an air of authority. For nearly 600 years, this castle symbolised power and strength, serving as a fortress that protected the prince-bishops from both internal and external threats. The citizens of Passau often rebelled against the ruling bishops, striving for greater independence. However, all of these attempts were in vain. The steadfast castle withstood numerous challenges throughout the centuries. 

Back on board, make sure to keep an eye on the superb views slipping silently by as we cross into Austria. It’s a country synonymous with breathtaking scenery, but this beautiful section of the Danube Valley is still something of a secret – wrap up warm and head up to the Sun Deck for the best views.

On a striking rocky bluff above the town of Melk is the enormous Benedictine Abbey, which we visit this morning. This extraordinary building was originally a castle that was subsequently bequeathed to the Benedictine order during the 11th century and has been a monastery ever since. Reconstructed in full Baroque style during the 18th century, the Abbey has many fine rooms and a stupendous library with 100,000 priceless volumes, including some intricate illuminated manuscripts. After the tour, explore the grounds or take a stroll back to the ship through the picturesque old town, with buildings dating back to the 15th century. 

As lunch is served, we cruise downstream through the delightfully picturesque Wachau Valley – considered one of Europe’s most enchanting river valleys. Slip past a dramatic, quiet landscape of frost-dusted terraced vineyards, towering medieval ruins, and steep riverbanks enveloped in mist before approaching our next destination: Vienna, the city of Strauss.

The main event this evening is the ‘Chef’s Dinner’, when the chef prepares his superb ‘signature’ dishes for you to enjoy in the splendid surroundings of the ship’s restaurant. Afterward, to celebrate Vienna’s wonderful legacy, we have arranged a recital on board by a quartet of talented classical musicians. Listening to this exquisite music while in the city of its creation makes a wonderful finale to the day. 

The very name “Vienna” provokes images of elegance, fine music, wide boulevards, Baroque architecture and a rich tapestry of peoples who were drawn here from all corners of Europe.

For 200 years until the First World War, Vienna was the cultural centre of Europe and many of the showpiece buildings, galleries, aristocratic palaces and magnificent churches you see today were built to reflect its imperial status. The city’s most iconic monument is the breathtaking Saint Stephen’s Cathedral, whose striking multi-coloured roof and huge Gothic South Tower dominate the skyline.

There’s also the colossal Hofburg, the former royal court that is now home to a collection of museums, the Crown Jewels and the Spanish Riding School, and where the Vienna Boys’ Choir performs. Then there are the lavish Imperial Apartments and an outstanding collection of relics of the Holy Roman Empire, including, allegedly, the sabre of Charlemagne himself.  

This morning we have a tour with a local guide offering insights into why Vienna is one of Europe’s great capitals – the seat of the Habsburg emperors and home to some of the world’s finest classical composers, including Beethoven, Brahms, Mozart and, of course, a whole family of Strausses. After the panoramic tour on coach along the Ringstrasse, the famous boulevard, built where the city walls once stood and lined with many of the most important sights, you can choose to continue your tour on foot through the old town or explore independently. 

During the afternoon you’re free to explore as you wish. Take a stroll in the Prater, notable for the huge Ferris wheel that features in several Cold War spy thrillers. Or, for something quite different, visit The Kunsthistorisches Museum, which contains the world’s fourth largest collection of paintings, is just across the road. Perhaps, though, just take a stroll through Vienna’s atmospheric side streets, or enjoy a coffee and a slice of delicious Sachertorte in one of the lovely coffee houses.

We spend our last night onboard moored in Vienna.