Sail through the heart of Europe on a Christmastime river cruise that celebrates the season in grand style as you journey along the Main and Rhine Rivers with Avalon Waterways. This unforgettable voyage blends the romance of medieval towns, the sparkle of holiday markets, and the breathtaking scenery of Europe’s most celebrated waterways.

Your festive adventure begins in Nuremberg, home to one of the world’s oldest and most famous Christmas Markets, where the scent of gingerbread and spiced wine fills the air. Wander among hundreds of red-and-white market stalls offering handcrafted ornaments, toys, and seasonal treats. Continue to Bamberg, a UNESCO World Heritage city that feels like a living Christmas village, with its baroque architecture and winding lanes illuminated by twinkling lights.

As you sail the Main River, discover Würzburg, known for its magnificent Residence Palace and charming market square brimming with local crafts and warm mugs of Glühwein. The journey continues through the scenic river valleys dotted with castles and vineyards before arriving in Heidelberg, where you can stroll the romantic Old Town beneath the shadow of its famous castle. The medieval streets, adorned with festive décor, invite you to linger and savor the spirit of the season.

Entering the Rhine River, you’ll pass through some of Europe’s most enchanting landscapes. Then, in Strasbourg, France—often called the “Capital of Christmas”—you’ll find one of Europe’s most spectacular markets, set against the backdrop of the city’s striking Gothic cathedral and scenic canals. Finally, your voyage concludes in Basel, Switzerland, where the holiday magic continues with elegant decorations, artisan crafts, and delicious Swiss chocolates.

This Christmastime from Nuremberg to Basel cruise is more than a vacation—it’s a holiday experience wrapped in timeless charm, filled with music, markets, and memories you’ll treasure for a lifetime.

The Avalon Vista embodies the very best of Avalon Waterways’ award-winning fleet—combining sleek design, spacious accommodations, and an intimate onboard atmosphere that makes every moment unforgettable. Purpose-built with comfort and panoramic beauty in mind, the Avalon Vista is part of the continent’s youngest and most innovative river cruise fleet. Guests enjoy panoramic suites featuring floor-to-ceiling windows that open wall-to-wall, transforming your cabin into an open-air balcony with ever-changing views of Europe’s most scenic rivers. Every detail has been thoughtfully designed for relaxation, from the plush Comfort Collection beds facing the window to the elegant marble bathrooms and modern amenities throughout the ship.

Dining aboard the Avalon Vista is an experience to savor. Avalon’s signature FlexDining® concept gives you the freedom to dine when and where you please—without fixed seating times or stuffy dress codes. Enjoy regionally inspired dishes and classic favorites crafted from the freshest local ingredients. Whether it’s an al fresco lunch at the Sky Grill, a four-course gourmet dinner in the Panorama Dining Room with floor-to-ceiling glass walls, or a relaxed evening in the Panorama Bistro, every meal is as memorable as the views that surround you.

Life on board blends luxury with laid-back comfort. You can sip wine in the cozy Club Lounge, watch the world drift by from the Sky Deck’s whirlpool and lounge chairs, or enjoy nightly entertainment and cultural performances that bring each destination to life.

And when it’s time to explore, Avalon Vista offers a choice of included excursions in nearly every port—each designed to match your travel style. Choose Classic tours to dive into local history and culture, Discovery experiences for hands-on immersion like cooking classes or art workshops, or Active adventures such as biking, hiking, or kayaking along Europe’s most scenic stretches.

With Avalon Vista, every element—from the open-air design to the flexible dining and immersive excursions—has been crafted to give you the most relaxing, personalized, and inspiring river cruise experience imaginable.

For more info, you can read my review of a previous Avalon Waterways cruise we did.

9-Night Christmastime Cruise

Nuremberg to Basel
Avalon Vista
December 9-18, 2027

Places We Visit:

• Nuremberg, Germany
• Bamberg, Germany
• Wurzburg, Germany
• Miltenberg, Germany
• Frankfurt, Germany
• Speyer, Germany
• Kehl, Germany/Strasbourg, France
• Breisach, Germany
• Basel, Switzerland

Your river cruise fare includes many wonderful Classic, Discovery and Active shore excursions. We are also happy to let you know that we are also including free pre-paid gratuities as well! This includes opportunities to experience all the Christmas Markets.  We will have more details on the available excursions during our Zoom.  Also included is a daily happy hour on our ship.

Pricing*:

Panorama Suite - P: $17,614.00

Panorama Suite - A: $17,486.00

Panorama Suite - B: $17,230.00

Deluxe Stateroom - D: $12,344.00

Deluxe Stateroom - E: $12,344.00

*Pricing is based on the total cost per cabin, based on double occupancy, not per person

Traveling solo? Give us a call—we’d be happy to discuss your options! 

Pre-Cruise Extension:

Begin your Christmastime from Nuremberg to Basel river cruise with a magical 2-night pre-cruise stay in Prague, the “City of a Hundred Spires.” This Avalon Waterways extension lets you ease into the festive spirit before you even step aboard your ship.

Stroll through Old Town Square, where one of Europe’s most enchanting Christmas Markets comes alive with sparkling lights, carolers, and the scent of freshly baked trdelník pastries. Explore Prague Castle, St. Vitus Cathedral, and the iconic Charles Bridge, all beautifully illuminated for the holidays. With guided sightseeing, comfortable accommodations, and free time to discover cozy cafés and local traditions, this pre-cruise package adds the perfect touch of Old World charm to your Christmas journey.

After your Prague stay, you’ll transfer to Nuremberg to embark on your Avalon river cruise—already filled with the warmth, wonder, and spirit of the season.

This extension is $324 per person.

For those who would love to sail with us but prefer a shorter getaway, you can join us for the first 5 nights from Nuremberg to Frankfurt. We have special group pricing and free gratuities available — call Suzanne for details and pricing! 

You can learn more about this magical cruise, including cabin categories and current pricing, by visiting our groups page.

For the Short 5 Night Christmastime in Alsace and Germany (Basel to Frankfurt) from Nov 30 to Dec 4 pricing is as follows, these are room totals based on double occupancy, not per person. 

Panorama Suite - P: $8542.00

Panorama Suite - A: $8486.00

Panorama Suite - B: $8372.00

Deluxe Stateroom - D: $6086.00

Deluxe Stateroom - E: $6086.00

You can learn more about that cruise by visiting our groups page.