There’s something utterly magical about Europe in December—when towns twinkle with holiday lights, the aroma of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine fills the air, and every street corner seems to hum with cheer. My Christmas Market river cruise from Amsterdam to Basel was the perfect way to soak in the spirit of the season while exploring some of Europe’s most picturesque cities.
We began with a pre-cruise land package in Amsterdam, which set the tone for an unforgettable journey. A walking tour through the city’s historic heart revealed charming canals, leaning townhouses, and cozy cafés. A visit to Zaanse Schans offered a peek into the Netherlands’ rich heritage with its iconic windmills, wooden clogs, and artisan cheese-making. This visit was the perfect way to spend the morning before boarding our ship.
Our home for the week was the AmaSerena, a beautifully appointed ship that felt both elegant and welcoming. We sailed in a Category AB twin balcony stateroom on the Cello Deck, which offered the best of both worlds: a French balcony for fresh air and a full balcony for morning coffee with views of riverside villages. The stateroom was spacious, well-appointed, and a cozy retreat after each day of exploring.
We traveled with a small and lively group of fellow adventurers, and the intimate nature of river cruising meant we quickly formed friendships onboard. In fact, we picked up several new friends along the way—travelers with shared interests, stories, and laughter that made every dinner or lounge gathering feel like a holiday party with old friends.
The festive sailing took us to Cologne, where the imposing Gothic cathedral watched over a bustling Christmas market filled with hand-carved ornaments, traditional German pastries, and the smell of cinnamon in the air. Then came Rüdesheim, where the cobbled streets were lined with half-timbered houses and vineyards. We strolled through the charming Drosselgasse, sampled locally made brandy, and marveled at the cozy, snow-dusted rooftops.
Heidelberg turned out to be our favorite. The majestic castle overlooking the Old Town offered panoramic views of the Neckar River and the market below. The entire city was dressed for the season—garlands strung across medieval alleyways, market stalls selling handblown glass, and the scent of bratwurst on the grill. Yet every stop held its own magic. Strasbourg stunned with its Franco-German charm, intricate architecture, and the oldest Christmas market in France—Christkindelsmärik, dating back to 1570.
We ended with an overnight in Basel, which gave us the chance to join a day-long excursion to Lucerne. Nestled by a lake and surrounded by snowcapped Alps, Lucerne looked like a storybook town come to life. We wandered through its Old Town, crossed the iconic Chapel Bridge, and sipped glühwein while watching the ice skaters by the waterfront.
Onboard, the AmaSerena offered festive touches like tree-trimming, cookie decorating, glühwein receptions, and live holiday music in the evenings. Meals were inspired by regional flavors, and each night brought a toast to the day’s adventures with new friends and unforgettable scenery just outside the dining room windows.
This journey was more than a holiday getaway—it was a sensory experience that combined culture, cuisine, and the warmth of the season in a way only a river cruise can deliver. Whether you’re a first-time visitor to Europe or a seasoned traveler, a Christmas Market cruise along the Rhine is pure enchantment wrapped in twinkling lights.