Alsace Christmas Spirit

DAY 1

Travelling by Eurostar Plus from London St Pancras to Brussels, then onwards in First Class to Düsseldorf for our overnight stay where we check in and enjoy our first evening meal together.

DAY 2

After breakfast this morning, we enjoy free time to explore this lively city of Düsseldorf including the historic Old Town which radiates a festive charm making it the perfect opportunity to discover the cobbled stone streets, stroll the local Christmas Markets, and admire the beautiful architecture. This afternoon, we transfer to board the MS VIVA ONE, our home for six nights, where we settle in and enjoy our evening meal together.

DAY 3

This morning, we have the opportunity to explore one of Germany's oldest and most scenic cities, Koblenz, on a unique walking tour to discover the rich history of this Rhine city. We will wander the charming streets and squares, discover the historical treasures and impressive landmarks, and walk the picturesque banks of the Rhine accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide. This afternoon, we return to the MS VIVA ONE and enjoy all that river cruising has to offer as we continue sailing and enjoy our evening meal together.

DAY 4

Today, we wake in the historic city of Speyer and, after breakfast, we enjoy a guided tour of this remarkable imperial city. We will discover impressive facades, charming half-timbered houses, and romantic squares beautifully adorned for the festive season plus we will enjoy a local delicacy - a freshly baked Speyer-style pretzel! The afternoon is at leisure to explore further, visit the magnificent Cathedral, or browse the local shops before returning to the MS VIVA ONE for our evening meal together.

DAY 5

Merry Christmas! Today, we cruise into France where the enchanting city of Strasbourg awaits, renowned as the Christmas capital of the world, with its idyllic half-timbered houses and picturesque landmarks. Along the way, we will enjoy a Christmas programme (to be advised closer to departure) plus a delicious, locally themed Christmas lunch to celebrate the special day.

DAY 6

This morning, we will discover Strasbourg and its unique blend of tradition and modernity on a panoramic coach tour combined with a guided city walk. Our scenic journey will take us past iconic sights and striking architecture with plenty of photo opportunities along the way before we continue by foot through the historic city centre. Here, we can immerse ourselves in the enchanting festive lights, admire the famous Cathedral, and explore independently before returning by coach to the MS VIVA ONE.

DAY 7

After breakfast this morning, we watch the beautiful Rhine slip by as we continue to our next destination of Rüdesheim, a town celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes and magnificent river vistas. This afternoon, we will embark on an inspiring walking tour through picturesque vineyards to St. Hildegard Abbey, a place of spiritual significance and natural beauty. We will experience the local culture, quiet ambience, and charming traditions before returning to the MS VIVA ONE to complete the final leg of this wonderful cruise and enjoy our final evening meal together.

DAY 8

We bid farewell to Düsseldorf and to Germany as we disembark and return by rail to Brussels, where we will join the Eurostar Plus service to London St Pancras.

*Important Note: Whilst the arrangements for all described excursions are in place, we do reserve the right to make substitutions/changes should it be deemed necessary for whatever reason.

B=Breakfast, L=Lunch, D=Dinner