Enchanting Rhine & Yuletide Markets River Cruise
This 4-night River Cruise offers a wonderful way for Irish travellers to experience the festive traditions of Germany. Sailing on the five-star MS Oscar Wilde, you will visit the most iconic Rhine Yuletide Markets in Cologne, Bonn, and Rüdesheim. The holiday begins with flights from Dublin and includes full board accommodation, meaning all your meals and a selection of drinks are covered while you are on the river. The MS Oscar Wilde provides a comfortable and sophisticated base, with spacious cabins and excellent service from a dedicated English-speaking crew.
One of the main attractions of this trip is the scenery of the Rhine Gorge. As the ship navigates this narrow stretch of water, you will see dramatic cliffs, steep vineyards, and ruined castles that look like something from a storybook. To keep the winter chill at bay, steaming mugs of Glühwein are served on deck, allowing you to soak in the views in comfort. In Rüdesheim, the crooked houses and narrow streets create a beautiful setting for the local market, while a visit to the year-round Christmas shop offers a chance to find handcrafted nutcrackers and figurines.
The journey also takes you to Bonn, the historic former capital of West Germany. Here, you will be guided through the old town to see sights like the pink Rococo town hall and the home where Beethoven was born. The city’s markets are filled with the scent of baked apples and gingerbread, perfect for an afternoon stroll. The cruise concludes in Cologne, a city that truly embraces the season with seven different markets. You will have a guided tour of the historic quarter and the magnificent cathedral before having free time to browse the 160 stalls of the main market. From traditional crafts to live music, this organised tour ensures you see the very best of the Rhineland at its most festive time of year.
What is included in the drink package on board?
Do I need to worry about transfers from the airport?
Which Christmas markets will we visit?
What's Included+
- Booking advice from your Travel Escapes travel advisor
- Return flights from Dublin with 20kg check-in bag per person
- Return airport transfers
- 4 nights onboard the 5* Riviera River Cruise MS Oscar Wilde based on two sharing
- Full board basis
- Complimentary drinks throughout the cruise
- Complimentary onboard tea and coffees
- Complimentary onboard WIFI
- 5 included experiences plus Christmas market visits
Itinerary
1Arrival in Cologne+
Your journey begins with a flight from Dublin to Düsseldorf or Cologne. Upon arrival, you will be transferred to your five-star ship, the MS Oscar Wilde, which is moored in the historic city of Cologne. The evening provides a perfect opportunity to settle into your spacious cabin and get to know the ship’s facilities as the dedicated crew prepares for the voyage ahead.
2The Rhine Gorge and Rüdesheim+
Wake up to a winter wonderland as you sail through the magnificent Rhine Gorge. Enjoy a glass of warming Glühwein on deck as you pass vineyard-covered slopes and ancient castles. In the afternoon, you arrive in Rüdesheim. You can choose to visit Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet or take a cable car ride over the vineyards to the Niederwald Monument. Later, explore the local Christmas market before returning to the ship for a Rhenish folklore show.
3Rhine Gorge and Historic Bonn+
Sail back through the narrow valley of the Rhine Gorge towards Bonn, the former capital of West Germany. After a delicious lunch, join a guided walking tour of the city centre to see the Romanesque minster and the birthplace of Beethoven. You will have plenty of free time to enjoy the local festive markets, where the old town hall is famously transformed into a giant Advent calendar. The day concludes with a special Chef's Dinner on board.
4Exploring the Rhine Yuletide Markets in Cologne+
As the spires of the cathedral come into view, you arrive back in Cologne. A local guide will lead you through the historic quarter on a walking tour. The rest of the day is yours to explore the city's seven distinct Rhine Yuletide Markets. Whether it is the maritime-themed harbour market or the grand Cathedral market with its 160 stalls and massive Christmas tree, the festive atmosphere is truly infectious.
5Return to Ireland+
After a final breakfast on board, it is time to say goodbye to the crew and fellow travellers. You will be transferred to the airport for your return flight to Dublin, bringing home fond memories of the festive Rhineland.
| Date | Acc. | Price | Booking |
|---|---|---|---|
| 01 Dec 2026 | Main Deck | €3,199 | Sold Out |
| 06 Dec 2026 | Main Deck | €1,499 | Enquire Now |
| 08 Dec 2026 | Main Deck | €1,777 | Enquire Now |
| 10 Dec 2026 | Main Deck | €1,999 | Enquire Now |
| 16 Dec 2026 | Main Deck | €1,666 | Enquire Now |
- Booking deposit: enquire at time of booking
- Prices are per person based on two sharing.
- Single Supplement applies.
- A non-refundable / non-transferable deposit is required at the time of booking.
- Balance due 16 weeks before departure.
- Optional insurance available (terms & conditions apply).
- Taxes, prices & itinerary subject to change.
- Booking terms & conditions apply.
- Travel Insurance is not included.
Ref: RI
