Yuletide Wonders on the Rhine: A Viking River Christmas Market Cruise Adventure

jjstravelplanners
Jan 6
11 min read

Experiencing Christmas along the Rhine River is an extraordinary adventure. Picture this: twinkling lights reflecting off the serene waters, historic towns dressed up in their holiday best, and the scent of mulled wine wafting through the air. Imagine a journey winding through storybook villages, each more enchanting than the last, where every cobblestone street hums with festive cheer.

From the moment I stepped into Zurich, Switzerland, I was whisked away into a world where Christmas isn’t just a season—it's a whole new realm. Let’s embark on this enchanting voyage together.

Zurich and Lucerne, Switzerland

After arriving in Zurich around midday, we checked into the Marriott Zurich. I loved its location—not in the tourist zone, but within walking distance of much of the city, including the train station. The Marriott made our stay easy by providing a city guide and map with plenty of ideas for seeing Zurich during the Christmas season. No advance research needed!

Once we dropped off our luggage, we headed out to find some traditional cheese fondue. Hotel Adler’s Swiss Chuchi drew us in. The scent was strong, and the portions were enormous! Sampling a couple of cheese options and pairing them with wine was a quintessential first meal in Switzerland.

With a few Christmas market stalls right outside, we began our journey through Zurich. We wandered through the winding streets, admiring the beautiful buildings, and eventually made our way to the Opera House, where we got our hands on the first festive mug of the trip. This market was all about food and drink, with some brilliant lights to enjoy.

Continuing our walk to the other side of the river, we came upon the “Lucy” Christmas lights on Bahnhofstrasse. Named after the famous Beatles song “Lucy in the Sky with Diamonds,” this light display was simply breathtaking. The Singing Tree was another fun surprise. From a distance, you might not realize it was kids positioned in the shape of a tree, but their sweet voices singing Christmas carols were a delight to hear and a perfect way to end our day.

The next morning, we hopped on a train to visit the charming city of Lucerne. We were instantly captivated by the serene beauty of Lake Lucerne and the picturesque buildings surrounding it. A visit to Aux Merveilleux de Fred for a sweet treat allowed us to watch the bakers creating their masterpieces, a delightful experience.

We then ventured up the hill to Musegg Wall and marveled at one of its nine towers, the Zyt Tower. The preservation of this historic site since the fourteenth century was interesting. However, the rain became too heavy, so we decided to cut our trip short.

Back in Zurich, still trying to warm up and dry off, we found refuge at San Gennaro right in the train station. The combination of wine and pizza was just what we needed to recharge for the afternoon.

The Christkindlimarkt at the train station, one of the largest in Europe with over 120 stalls, provided a cozy escape from the cold. We indulged in mini donuts as an after-lunch treat, and the sight of the Lindt Christmas tree against the backdrop of the train station windows added to the festive atmosphere.

Our next stop was the quaint Marea Cocktail Bar, where we enjoyed the perfect espresso martini and a beautiful view of the Limmat River. I highly recommend Marea for its small, local feel.

Continuing the festive fun, we headed to a Christmas pop-up bar, Rudolph’s Holy Moly, for a quick drink. Despite the corporate groups and parties, the Christmas cheer was infectious.

We ended our day with dinner at Restaurant Barengasse. The exceptional service from the servers, bartenders, and hosts did not go unnoticed. The steak was excellent, but the wine and company were even better! After a day packed with adventure and fun, we were ready to begin our Christmas market river cruise the next day.

Basel, Switzerland

We embarked on a train journey to Basel, a fascinating city located at the intersection of Germany, France, and Switzerland. After a swift Uber ride, we boarded the Viking Eir and settled in (more details on the Viking experience later). We enjoyed a delightful lunch onboard the ship before venturing out to admire the charm of Basel. The city's Christmas markets were a festive delight, and the red-sandstone Rathaus, or Town Hall, was a striking sight both from the outside and within its picturesque courtyard.

Breisach, Germany

We sailed through the night, and although the occasional noise from the locks woke us up a few times, it didn't dampen our energy and excitement for our first stop in Freiburg, Germany. For our morning excursion, we opted for the Freiburg Yuletide Market and an organ concert. The market offered some unique treasures, and I couldn't resist picking up a few treats to bring home for my dog. The Freiburg Minster was absolutely breathtaking with its combined Romanesque and Gothic styles. As we enjoyed the organ concert, I couldn't help but feel a deep appreciation for the fact that this magnificent cathedral survived the devastations of World War II.

Our afternoon excursion took us to the picturesque village of Staufen. The adventure began with a brief guided tour that provided fascinating facts and history about the area. We then had some free time to wander on our own. At Café Decker, we picked up some delightful German goodies to take home, admired the Christmas trees lining the streets, all adorned with different homemade ornaments, and did a bit of shopping at the local stores.

Our group reconvened for a wine tasting experience at Peter Landmann Wine. The journey began with a warm cup of glühwein before we headed into the cellar to learn more about the winemaking process. We savored several exquisite wines, and the evening culminated with a few purchases to enjoy later. It was a memorable and charming day that truly captured the spirit of the holiday season.

Strasbourg, France

One of my absolute favorite excursions was the Christmas Flavors of Alsace tour. Our group was the only one that signed up, so we had the luxury of a private tour with the incredibly knowledgeable Marina. After a short taxi and bus ride, followed by a walk, we found ourselves in Alsace, a region rich in history and tales of its many takeovers by Germany and France.

Marina guided us through the town, sharing her extensive knowledge along the way. We experienced so many delightful "flavors"—klausmann (a sweet bread shaped like a person), wine and cheese pairings, a delicious cookie, and some warm glühwein. A stop at Pain d’epices offered a truly sensory experience of flavors.

We had some time to explore on our own, during which we admired art at Carré D’Artistes, shopped at the numerous Christmas markets, and marveled at the Cathédrale Notre-Dame de Strasbourg. The cathedral's intricate Gothic architecture stood majestically against the winter sky, and the stained-glass windows were stunning. We later learned that many of the windows were preserved during World War II because both France and Germany believed they were protecting their own treasures.

We reunited with Marina for more Alsatian delights, including spätzle, beer, and wine. It was wonderful to immerse ourselves in the rich culture of Alsace for the day. The experience left me longing to spend more time in the Christmas capital of the world, as there is so much more to see.

Mannheim, Germany

Our time in Mannheim was brief but delightful. We chose to roam on our own, with the majority of our visit spent at the enchanting Yuletide market. Here, we marveled at the intricately decorated pyramids and festive Christmas décor at Kathe Wohlfahrt. Watching the artisans craft chimney cakes was fascinating, and, of course, we couldn't resist tasting one ourselves.

A bus ride took us back to our ship at Gernsheim, and we set sail for Rudesheim, Germany. That evening, we embarked on an exquisite excursion for wine tasting and dinner at the historic Eberebach Monastery. The abbey's architecture and history were even more captivating under the cloak of night, enhancing the experience. The wine was delightful, and the dinner was absolutely divine, making for a truly memorable evening.

Braubach and Koblenz, Germany

Our morning began with a leisurely sail along the Rhine River, admiring the many castles that adorn their banks. The activity director provided engaging narration, offering historical context and intriguing stories about each castle. We had the option to enjoy the scenic views from the deck or the comfort of our room. Fortunately, our travel companions had a room at the back of the ship, which allowed for panoramic views without crowds and cold temperatures. The sight of these ancient fortresses emerging from the misty morning was nothing short of magical.

After another delightful lunch on board, we set off on an excursion to the medieval Marksburg Castle. Perched high above the Rhine, this well-preserved fortress offered a glimpse into the past. As we toured the castle, we were awestruck by the impressive collection of armor, showcasing the evolution of military attire through the centuries. We learned about the peculiar practice of sleeping upright to avoid bad spirits and heard fascinating tales of the battles fought within these ancient walls. The views from the castle were breathtaking, offering a sweeping panorama of the Rhine Valley below.

In the afternoon, we rejoined the ship in Koblenz, Germany, and ventured out to discover the city. The enormous statue at Deutsches Eck, where the Mosel River joins the Rhine River, was a truly magnificent sight. Standing at the confluence of these two rivers, the statue seemed to guard the waters below. The Christmas markets in Koblenz continued to enchant, each one offering a unique and captivating experience.

Cologne, Germany

The Christmas markets in Cologne were a delightful experience, each one offering its unique charm and festive atmosphere. Our adventure began at the "Market of Hearts," set in the shadow of the majestic Cologne Cathedral. The market was bustling with life, and we couldn't resist the mouthwatering raclette, a warm, gooey cheese dish that was perfect for the chilly weather.

We took a break at Café Reichard, a charming spot that offered us a fantastic view of the cathedral. With a beverage in hand, we warmed up, used the water closets (trust me, you should check them out) and admired the stunning Gothic architecture that loomed over the market, its spires reaching high into the sky.

Our next stop was the "Market of Angels" at Neumarkt, which quickly became my favorite. The market was beautifully decorated with twinkling lights and angelic motifs, creating a magical ambiance. Strolling through the stalls, I felt as if I had become a local, immersing myself in the festive spirit. The friendly vendors and unique items added to the enchanting experience.

That evening, we continued our exploration of Cologne's Christmas markets. The Harbour Christmas Market at the Chocolate Museum was conveniently located near our ship's docking area. This market offered a wonderful variety of food and goods for purchase, from artisanal chocolates to festive ornaments.

Our journey through Cologne's festive wonderland didn't end there. We visited Heinzels Wintermärchen in Old Town, a winter fairytale market that featured ice skating and an observation deck. The market's whimsical decorations and cheerful atmosphere made it a delightful place to spend a little time.

Throughout our visit, the Cologne Cathedral remained an awe-inspiring presence. Its gigantic and gorgeous structure left me speechless. The intricate details of the Gothic architecture, the soaring spires, and the stunning stained-glass windows were truly breathtaking. Learning about the cathedral's history and its significance to Cologne added depth to our experience.

The Christmas markets of Cologne were a feast for the senses, each one offering its own unique blend of festive cheer, delicious treats, and charming decorations. The Cologne Cathedral, standing proudly amidst the holiday festivities, was a testament to the city's rich history and architectural beauty. It was a magical experience that I will cherish for years to come.

Dordrecht/Gouda, Netherlands

After a 45-minute bus ride from Dordrecht, we arrived in the charming town of Gouda. Our tour began with a brief guide through the city, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience.

The highlight was undoubtedly our stroopwafel-making session at Berg’s Bakery. Learning from a famous, witty baker who clearly loves his craft was a blast. While my attempts weren’t perfect, I still got to enjoy a couple of fresh, delicious stroopwafels.

Our next stop was Kaaswinkel Gouda, a local cheese shop offering about 45 different varieties of farmer’s cheese. Sampling these delightful cheeses was a treat, and they make fantastic gifts or a special something to bring home for yourself.

We were fortunate to be in the Netherlands around St. Nicholas Day and caught a glimpse of a few Black Petes on our way back to the bus. Although controversial, the tradition holds that Black Pete travels annually from Spain to assist St. Nicholas in bringing presents to well-behaved children and lumps of coal to those who have misbehaved.

Gouda is a town brimming with charm and culinary delights, and I’d love to explore it even more in the future!

Amsterdam, Netherlands

We disembarked on a very windy morning, ready to explore the vibrant city of Amsterdam. Our stay at Kimpton DeWitt was delightful—consistent with the quality we've come to expect from Kimpton hotels. Comfortable beds and pillows, beautiful décor, a hosted happy hour, and exceptional service made our stay memorable.

Our visit to the Anne Frank House was profoundly moving. Learning about how Anne and her family lived in hiding was both humbling and inspiring. Their resilience and courage serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of standing against discrimination.

I couldn’t resist the allure of Selma’s, a charming Nordic bakery. The afternoon treat was as delicious as it was delightful.

Dinner at The Seafood Bar was a culinary highlight. Despite having locations in multiple cities, it felt far from a typical chain restaurant. The seafood was incredibly fresh, the menu was expansive, and the espresso martini was a perfect finish.

We ended our last night with a private canal cruise on a historic boat, just a short walk from our hotel past the beautiful train station. We were fortunate to be there during the Rituals Light Festival, adding an extra layer of magic to the evening. Our tour guide shared fascinating details about Amsterdam, its canals, and life on a houseboat. I highly recommend this intimate and enchanting way to see the city.

The Viking Eir

The Viking Eir provided an epic journey, where luxury met festive cheer on the enchanting Rhine River.

Our room on the Viking Eir was a sanctuary of comfort and elegance. The spacious layout provided ample storage options for our luggage and belongings, ensuring a clutter-free stay. The generous-sized toiletries were of excellent quality, adding a touch of indulgence to our daily routine.

The Viking Eir offers countless opportunities to learn about the ship and its fascinating history, and many chances to get acquainted with the friendly staff and fellow passengers. The sense of community on board made our experience all the more enjoyable.

The culinary delights were a highlight of our journey. With a variety of consistently tasty options, each meal was a celebration of flavors. The menu, thoughtfully themed each day based on the ship's location, allowed us to savor regional specialties. One night, we were treated to a casual yet delightful Taste of Germany, complete with traditional dishes.

For those who appreciate fine beverages, the Silver Spirits beverage package is a must. It allowed us to indulge in higher-end wines and specialty cocktails, enhancing our dining experience.

Evenings on the Viking Eir were filled with entertainment and festive activities. We joined a tree trimming party, danced to the tunes of a DJ, learned how to make Christmas cookies and decorate gingerbread, and enjoyed live music from local performers. Each event added a layer of joy and festivity to our voyage.

The Christmas Market Cruise has come to an end

Sailing with Viking on the Rhine River is more than a trip; it's an experience that immerses you in the charm and wonder of Christmas in Europe. Whether you're enjoying the luxurious accommodations, delectable cuisine, or vibrant entertainment, every moment on the Viking Eir is designed to create lasting memories. Exploring more on the front and back end of the trip was perfect too. If you want a way to celebrate the Christmas season in a memorable way, reach out to me to explore your trip with Viking and embark on a journey of a lifetime.