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Rhine Holiday Markets

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Voyage Code: UNIWORLD58199
moon 7 nights
anchor River Duchess
calendar 16 Dec '26

Cruise overview

Discover the roots of our Christmas traditions as you explore some of Europe’s most charming towns. Browse for unique ornaments in Basel’s Christmas Market. Sip vin chaud as you stroll to Place Kléber to behold the enormous, brilliantly lighted tree of Strasbourg. See how the baroque town hall of Koblenz is transformed into an Advent calendar and find unexpected treasures in the stalls clustered around Cologne’s magnificent cathedral.

Savor tantalizing once-a-year treats with Uniworld’s “Taste of Christmas” program, including gingerbread and warm spiced wine. Revel in brightly painted carousels and handmade ornaments, medieval squares illuminated by twinkling lights, life-sized Nativity figures, and joyful brass choirs. Sail through castle-strewn hillsides and visit charming towns decked in festive finery for a holiday season you will never forget.

Please note that most Christmas Markets in Europe end their season on the 23rd of December and will not be available after that date.

Cologne
Cologne
Koblenz
Mainz
Mannheim
Strasbourg
Basel
Basel

Itinerary

Day 1

Cologne

Arrive at Cologne Bonn Airport. If your cruise package includes a group arrival transfer, or if you have purchased a private arrival transfer, you will be greeted by a Uniworld representative and transferred to the ship.


Cologne is a city in western Germany located across the Rhine river. It is the oldest in Germany, dating back 2000 years and is considered the region’s cultural hub. The city is known for its iconic landmark of the twin-spired Cologne Cathedral set against the reconstructed Old Town buildings. When in Old Town, visit the historic Old Town Hall and the Roman Church Great St Martin, or take time out and sit at one of the traditional breweries and enjoy the scenery around you. Historical sites such as the Roman Dionysus mosaic and the medieval Overstolzenhaus are worth a visit too. Another iconic sight in Cologne is at Hohenzollern Bridge. Here, local and tourist couples affix padlocks to the railings of the bridge and swear their loyalty to each other, they then throw the key into the Rhein to ensure everlasting love. Cologne is home to over 30 stages providing cabaret, free ensembles, theatre and dance and also celebrates its openly gay culture.

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Day 2

Cologne

Day 3

Koblenz

Day 4

Mainz

Day 5

Mannheim

Day 6

Strasbourg

Day 7

Basel

Day 8

Basel

Deluxe Stateroomfrom£4,149pp
French Balcony Stateroomfrom£6,249pp
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Classic StateroomCall for price

Deluxe Stateroom

from£4,149pp
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  • Lavishly appointed riverview stateroom (151 sq ft – 14 sq m)
  • Handcrafted Savoir® Beds of England, built-in closet, hair dryer, safe, individual thermostat, flat-screen TV with infotainment center and satellite
  • Marble bathroom with Asprey bath and body products, plush towels, heated mirror, backlit magnifying mirror, comfortable bathrobes and slippers

Amenities

  • Double
  • Shower
  • Toiletries Provided
  • TV
  • Safe
  • Hair Dryer
  • Room Service Available
  • Telephone
  • Desk
  • Media/Entertainment Station

Ship features

River Duchess combines refined European décor with Uniworld’s all-inclusive hospitality, ensuring every voyage feels uniquely personal.

Overview
Accommodation
Dining
Amenities
Wellness
Entertainment
Families
  • Luxurious staterooms for 130 guests
  • Restaurant and Panorama Lounge
  • Library and Captain’s Lounge & Bar
  • Fitness centre and Serenity River Spa
  • All-inclusive dining and beverages
  • Daily excursions with local guides
  • Complimentary bicycles and WiFi
  • Boutique hotel-style interiors
  • 24-hour coffee and tea service
  • Elegant yet relaxed onboard ambience
River Duchess Accommodation

Accommodation

Staterooms blend warmth and sophistication, featuring handmade beds, marble bathrooms, and French windows. Suites add extra space and personalised service. Rich fabrics and classic décor evoke a sense of timeless European refinement.

River Duchess Dining

Dining

Dining aboard River Duchess is gourmet yet unpretentious. The main restaurant offers open-seating fine dining with seasonal European menus, complemented by regional wines and craft cocktails. Afternoon tea and al fresco options are also available.

River Duchess Amenities

Amenities

Guests can relax in the Panorama Lounge, read in the library, or enjoy spa treatments. The Sun Deck features open seating for panoramic views, while the Captain’s Lounge hosts evening entertainment and wine tastings.

River Duchess Wellness

Wellness

The Serenity River Spa offers facials, massages, and aromatherapy treatments. The adjacent fitness room offers modern equipment and stretching classes, ensuring well-being at every stage of the voyage.

River Duchess Entertainment

Entertainment

Evenings feature live music, cultural performances, and expert-led lectures. Shore experiences highlight local traditions, art, and cuisine, often culminating in intimate onboard recaps led by the Cruise Manager.

River Duchess Families

Families

The River Duchess is ideal for adults, although older children are also welcome. Its elegant atmosphere and cultural focus suit couples and small groups seeking a refined exploration experience.