Christmas Markets Cruise - Nuremberg to Amsterdam

DAY 1, Sunday - Cruise Embarkation in Nuremberg
Arrive in Munich and transfer to the port in Nuremberg. Embarkation begins at 2 pm. After arrival formalities, time to relax on board. Tonight, a gala Welcome Dinner sets the festive mood for your delightful river cruise
Overnight: River Cruise
Meals: Dinner

DAY 2, Monday - Nuremberg City Tour & Christmas Market
Continue cruising this morning and marvel at the stunning scenery along the way. After lunch, arrive in Nuremberg, Bavaria's energetic city with its history of almost one thousand years. View the historic Palace of Justice where the War Crimes Tribunal met in 1946, known as the Nuremberg Trials, and the chilling Nazi Rally Grounds where mass events were held to fuel the party propaganda. After destruction in WWII, the city has been painstakingly reconstructed, returning to some of its former glory. Explore the renowned Christmas market in the Old Town which attracts visitors from all over the world. The air is scented with a Yuletide aroma of roasted almonds, fresh gingerbread and hot chestnuts. Look up and see the golden angel in her white dress and jeweled crown, symbol of this magical market
Overnight: River Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 3, Tuesday - Bamberg City Tour & Christmas Market
Today, dock in historic Bamberg, former residence of one of Germany's most powerful imperial dynasties and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Begin your tour in the medieval city center with its impressive 11th century Romanesque cathedral and gorgeous rose garden. After, view the very unusual City Hall built on a tiny island in the middle of the Regnitz River and Little Venice, an area of colorful fishermen's houses. Bamberg's famous Trail of Nativity Scenes comprises more than 38 churches, chapels and public places with Creches and Nativity scenes. The afternoon is yours to discover the various festive markets
Overnight: River Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 4, Wednesday - Wurzburg City Tour & Christmas Market
Discover Wurzburg, named the "Pearl of the Romantic Road",with its dramatic Marienberg fortress, 15th century bridge and lush vineyards. Your walk takes you to the ornate Bishops' Residenz Palace, a stunning example of Baroque architecture, home to the largest ceiling fresco ever painted, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This afternoon, visit the Christmas markets and browse the various wooden stalls. Look out for handmade knitwear, creative jewelry, pewter and wooden toys. Sample delicious Franconian Christmas specialties along with traditional Gluhwein, a popular hot red wine infused with spices and orange peel
Overnight: River Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 5, Thursday - Wertheim City Tour
This morning, stroll through Wertheim on your guided tour, a charming German town well-known for its glassworks and Franconian wine. View half-timbered houses and the medieval town centre with its historic Market Square. In the afternoon, your time at the markets could be spent enjoying a classic German pretzel
Overnight: River Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 6, Friday - Frankfurt City Tour & Christmas Market
This morning, take a walking tour of the city with your local guide. Frankfurt is home of the European Central Bank and financial heart of Germany. Situated on the banks of the River Main, Frankfurt is a city of contrasts. Its famous modern skyline is a striking backdrop of the historical town center, or Römerberg. Spend the afternoon at the Frankfurt Christmas Market. Held for over 600 years, this traditional market is the highlight of the holiday season. A variety of stalls feature unique decorations and holiday gifts. A visit to the market is not complete without a glass of mulled wine and some local delicacies
Overnight: River Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 7, Saturday - Cologne City Tour
Depart for dynamic Cologne, with its 2000 year-old history, often called the capital of the Rhineland. Embark on a walking tour of the city, most famous for its Roman origins. Linger at the striking 13th century Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its soaring twin spires. Known for its vibrant art scene, Cologne abounds with cafes, galleries, shops and taverns
Overnight: River Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 8, Sunday - Depart The Netherlands
This morning transfer to the airport in Amsterdam for your departure flight. The airport is approximately a 30 minute drive from the port. Disembarkation with end at 9:30 am 
Meals: Breakfast

• Sat Dec 7, 2019
• Sat Dec 14, 2019

Monarch Countess

The Monarch Countess is a first class river cruise vessel chartered by Gate 1 Travel. Built in 2010, with a maximum capacity of 136 passengers, the ship features 64 spacious cabins and 4 suites each fully air conditioned with private bath facilities, shower, telephone and flat screen satellite TV.

OR: Monarch Empress

Sail the Danube in comfort and style on the Monarch Empress by Gate 1 Travel. The MS Monarch Empress is a deluxe river cruise vessel operated by Gate 1 Travel. Built in 2015/16, maximum capacity of 140 passengers, this ship features 70 spacious outside cabins, 58 with French Balcony, each fully air-conditioned with individual climate control and private bathrooms.