- Magical Christmas Markets of Germany

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AmaWaterways

Magical Christmas Markets of Germany
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Magical Christmas Markets of Germany

Celebrate the magic of the holiday season on AmaWaterways’ Magical Christmas Markets of Germany river cruise, a festive journey along the Rhine featuring charming medieval towns, world-famous Christmas markets, and stunning winter landscapes. Guests can enjoy traditional holiday treats, handcrafted gifts, cultural excursions, and the warm atmosphere of Germany’s most beloved Christmas celebrations while sailing in comfort and style.

Germany

Ship: AmaCerto

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Guest Service Directory

Overview

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Overview

Map of the trip locations

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A. Nuremberg

90 Nuremberg, Germany

B. Bamberg

96 Bamberg, Germany

C. Würzburg

97 Würzburg, Germany

D. Wertheim am Main

97877 Wertheim am Main, Germany

E. Rüdesheim an der Nahe

55 Rüdesheim an der Nahe, Germany

F. Mainz

55 Mainz, Germany

G. Frankfurt am Main

Frankfurt am Main, Germany

12/08/2027

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Begin your Christmas Markets journey

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Begin your Christmas Markets journey

Arrive in historic Nuremberg and settle into your ship, your festive home for the coming week. Take the evening to relax, unwind, and get your first glimpse of the enchanting Bavarian landscapes that await.

  • Embarkation

12/09/2027

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Franconian Rome and festive delights

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Discover Bamberg’s seven hills and cozy Christmas Markets

Explore UNESCO-designated Bamberg, where medieval lanes, grand cathedrals, and the iconic Old Town Hall rise above the Regnitz River. Enjoy a guided walking tour or sample local specialties–from smoked beer to traditional pastries–before ending your visit at the magical Christmas Markets. Active guests can take in the scenery on a guided bike ride.

Choose from a variety of activities to enjoy on your cruise:

  • Walking tour and Christmas Market

  • Tastes of Bamberg

  • Bike Tour

12/10/2027

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Baroque beauty

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Experience palatial architecture and festive markets

Stroll through Würzburg’s Baroque Old Town and browse its Christmas Market, or explore the lavish UNESCO-listed Residenz Palace, home to Tiepolo’s renowned fresco. Alternatively, wander the cobbled fairytale streets of Rothenburg ob der Tauber, Germany’s best-preserved walled town and a Christmas wonderland.

Choose from a variety of activities to enjoy on your cruise:

  • Walking tour and Christmas Market

  • Residenz Palace Visit

  • Rothenburg Excursion and Christmas Market

  • Wurzburg Castle Hike

12/11/2027

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History and holiday warmth

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Discover Wertheim’s medieval charm and castle views

Meander through Wertheim’s half-timbered old town before learning the craft of pretzel-making at a local bakery. Enjoy browsing the Christmas Markets or choose an active outing by hiking to the hilltop castle or biking through the scenic Main River Valley.

Choose from a variety of activities to enjoy on your cruise:

  • Walking tour and Christmas Market

  • Castle Hill hike

  • Bike Tour

12/12/2027

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The Rhine’s most iconic views

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Taste local vintages and cruise the legendary Rhine Gorge

Soar above the vineyards of Rüdesheim via gondola, sip regional wines, or explore the whimsical Mechanical Instrument Museum. Later, relax as you pass through the UNESCO-designated Rhine Gorge, famed for its dramatic cliffs and storybook castles, before an evening stroll through charming Koblenz.

Choose from a variety of activities to enjoy on your cruise:

  • Gondola Ride and Wine Tasting

  • Sigfried’s Mechanical Instrument Cabinet

  • Vineyards Hike

  • Bike Tour of the Rheingau

  • Scenic Cruising

  • Evening Walk

12/13/2027

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Gutenberg’s legacy and old-world Mainz

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Walk in the footsteps of history and artistry

Join a guided tour of Mainz’s Old Town and visit the renowned Gutenberg Museum to see original 15th-century Bibles. Choose a historical walking tour, a scenic bike ride, or simply enjoy the city’s blend of Roman roots and festive winter atmosphere.

Choose from a variety of activities to enjoy on your cruise:

  • Walking tour and Christmas Market

  • Wiesbaden City Tour and Christmas Market

  • Bike Tour

12/14/2027

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Frankfurt festivities

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Experience Germany’s modern-meets-medieval metropolis

Explore Frankfurt on a guided city tour highlighting its mix of skyscrapers, historic squares, and cultural landmarks before wandering its lively Christmas Market. Food lovers can choose a Hessian tasting tour, while active guests may bike along the Main River’s scenic paths.

Choose from a variety of activities to enjoy on your cruise:

  • City Tour and Christmas Market

  • Kleinmarkthalle Visit and Tastings

  • Main River Bike Tour

12/15/2027

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Disembarkation

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Bid farewell to the festive Rhine and prepare for your journey home.

  • Disembarkation

OPTIONAL PRE-CRUISE ADD-ON: 12/04-08/2027

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2 nights in Berlin & 2 nights in Dresden

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12/04/2027: Welcome to Berlin

Begin your journey in Germany’s vibrant capital

Arrive in Berlin and settle into your hotel, the starting point for your enchanting land and river journey. Enjoy the evening at leisure as the city’s twinkling lights, festive décor, and rich history set the tone for the magical days ahead.

  • Hotel check-in

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12/05/2027: Icons, culture, and Christmas charm

Discover Berlin’s legendary landmarks

Experience Berlin’s dynamic blend of heritage and modern sophistication on a guided walking tour featuring the Brandenburg Gate, Museum Island, and other cultural treasures. Afterward, immerse yourself in the city’s spirited Christmas Markets, where artisanal crafts, traditional treats, and glowing lights transform Berlin into a winter wonderland.

  • Walking tour & Christmas Markets

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12/06/2027: From capital splendor to Baroque Dresden

Explore cultural grandeur and storied squares

Depart Berlin and journey toward Dresden, pausing in Leipzig for a guided tour of its storied squares, musical heritage, and elegant architecture. Continue to Dresden and check into your hotel, arriving in time to soak in the city’s graceful Baroque atmosphere and festive seasonal spirit.

Choose from a variety of activities to enjoy on your cruise:

  • Transfer to Dresden

  • Leipzig tour

  • Hotel check-in

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12/07/2027: The baroque heart of Saxony

Where royal grandeur meets holiday magic

Known as the Baroque jewel of Saxony, Dresden enchants with its masterfully restored landmarks–from the elegant Zwinger Palace to the soaring Frauenkirche–set gracefully along the Elbe River. Today’s guided walking tour reveals the city’s royal heritage, vibrant cultural scene, and charming streets, before you’re swept up in the festive glow of Dresden’s famed Christmas Markets.

  • Walking tour & Christmas Markets

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12/08/2027: Bavaria’s holiday capital

Welcome aboard your holiday journey

Depart Dresden this morning and travel into the heart of Bavaria, pausing in the storybook town of Meissen for a brief tour of its historic center and celebrated craftsmanship. Continue on to Nuremberg, where your river cruise begins and the city’s legendary Christmas spirit welcomes you aboard.

  • Transfer to Nuremberg

  • Meissen tour

  • Embarkation

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Inclusions & Exclusions

Includes:

  • Seamless travel from ship to city with Cruise Manager support (handling transfers, luggage, and logistics)

  • Stay in centrally located luxury hotels near major landmarks

  • Expertly curated experiences

  • Daily breakfast at the hotel

Excludes:

  • Any experiences or services not specifically listed in the itinerary

  • Optional activities or upgrades beyond the included experiences

Onboard Amenities & Facilities

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Onboard Amenities & Facilities

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Ship Facilities & Public Spaces

  • Glass elevator connecting decks

  • Main lounge with bar, piano, and dance floor

  • Additional lounge/social spaces

  • Fireside library (quiet reading area)

  • Gift shop

  • Multiple outdoor decks with panoramic views

  • Sun deck with lounge chairs and retractable roof

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Leisure & Relaxation

  • Heated swimming pool with swim-up bar

  • Whirlpool / hot tub

  • Sun deck relaxation areas

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Wellness & Fitness

  • Fitness center (gym equipment)

  • Walking/jogging track on sun deck

  • Spa services (massage rooms)

  • Hair & beauty salon

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Activities & Equipment

  • Complimentary bicycles onboard

  • Wellness activities / fitness programs

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Entertainment & Social

  • Live entertainment (music, cultural performances)

  • Lounge-based social events and performances

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Convenience & Services

  • 24-hour coffee & tea station

  • Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the ship

Cabins Categories

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Cabins Categories

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Violin Deck: Category AA

235 sq. ft.

French Balcony & Outside Balcony

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Violin Deck: Category BA

210 sq. ft.

French Balcony & Outside Balcony

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Violin Deck: C (3rd Flr) Cello Deck: C (2nd Flr)

170 sq. ft.

French Balcony

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CelloDeck: Category AB

235 sq. ft.

French Balcony & Outside Balcony

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CelloDeck: Category BB

210 sq. ft.

French Balcony & Outside Balcony

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Piano Deck: Category D

160 sq. ft.

Fixed Windows

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Cabin Features

🛏️ Room features

  • Hotel-style bed (queen or twin configuration)

  • Wardrobe/closet

  • In-room safe

  • Full-length mirror

  • Individual climate control (AC/heating)

  • Flat-screen TV with movies and music


🚿 Bathroom

  • Private bathroom with glass-enclosed shower

  • Multi-jet shower system

  • Toilet and sink

  • Hair dryer

  • Toiletries (shampoo, conditioner, body wash, soap, lotion)

  • Bathrobes

  • Slippers


💧 Drinks & refreshments

  • Complimentary bottled water (replenished daily)

  • Glassware

  • Coffee/tea maker station

Pricing

Price inclusions & exclusions

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What's included

Accommodation

Spacious double occupancy can be in one or two beds

Meals

Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner & 24h snacks

Beverages

Wine and beer included with lunch and dinner. Sip&Sail Happy hour including 1 beer and spirits before dinner every night. Coffee & tea and soft drinks available 24/7.

Excursions

ALL Shore excursions led by expert local guides

Wi-Fi

On cruise assistance

Services of a professional Cruise Manager throughout the journey.

What's not included

Supplement for Single occupancy

50% of per person cost except Suites where the cost would be 100%

Personal expenses

Everything not mentioned in “included”

Pre & Post Cruise Add-Ons

Laundry

Travel Insurance - REQUIRED.

Final payment will be adjusted to include the price of travel insurance.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Can you accommodate dietary restrictions or food allergies?

AmaWaterways will do its best to accommodate most dietary requests when notified in advance. Vegetarian, gluten-free, and other preferences can typically be arranged; however, kosher meals cannot be provided due to onboard preparation limitations.

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Are meals and beverages included on board?

Yes. All meals on board are included, along with complimentary wine, beer, and soft drinks at lunch and dinner, plus a Sip & Sail cocktail hour before dinner on European cruises. Coffee, tea, and bottled water are available around the clock. Premium beverages and imported wines are available for purchase.

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What happens if the river levels are too low or high?

With over 20 years of river cruise experience, AmaWaterways closely monitors river conditions and has contingency plans in place should water levels affect navigation. Adjustments may include alternate docking locations, modified excursions, or ship swaps, ensuring your journey continues smoothly.

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Is there free time in each destination?

Yes. Every itinerary includes free time to explore at your own pace, whether that means visiting a local café, shopping in a market, or strolling through town. Your Cruise Manager and local guides are always happy to offer recommendations.

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What’s the dress code on board?

Dress aboard AmaWaterways ships is comfortable and casually elegant. On all ships, something a little dressier is recommended for the Welcome and Farewell dinners. Guests sailing in warmer destinations such as Vietnam, Cambodia, Egypt, and Colombia should pack breathable fabrics, sun protection, and modest attire for temple visits. 

In primarily Muslim countries like Egypt, Jordan, and the UAE, guests should dress respectfully, with women covering shoulders and arms and men wearing collared shirts and lightweight pants.

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What types of experiences on shore are offered?

Each itinerary features a variety of guided excursions designed to showcase local culture, history, and cuisine. Choose from gentle walking tours, active hikes or bike rides, and immersive experiences such as wine or beer tastings, cooking classes, and visits to local artisans.

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What is included in the cruise fare?

Your AmaWaterways river cruise includes spacious accommodations, all meals on board, wine and beer with lunch and dinner, shore excursions led by expert local guides, Wi-Fi, and the services of a professional Cruise Manager throughout your journey. On select sailings, some shore excursions are an additional cost.

About your organizer

I have a passion for exploring the world's wonders. With almost 3 decades of travel experience, I have experienced unforgettable journeys individually and with fellow travelers. My mission is to inspire wanderlust and create bespoke travel experiences tailored to their client's interests and preferences. By leveraging my extensive networks and insider knowledge to craft authentic experiences that immerse travelers in the cultures, landscapes, and histories of destinations around the globe.

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- Magical Christmas Markets of Germany