River Cruise Itinerary

1. Day 1
   DAY 1, Tuesday - Depart for Germany

   Tue, Dec 17, 2024

   Depart for Germany
2. Day 2
   DAY 2, Wednesday - Arrive in Frankfurt, Cruise Embarkation

   Wed, Dec 18, 2024

   Arrive in Frankfurt and transfer to the port. Embarkation begins at 2 PM. After arrival formalities, time to relax on board. This evening, meet your Cruise Director, and enjoy a dinner as it sets the festive mood for your delightful river cruise
   Overnight: River Cruise
   Meals: Dinner
3. Day 3
   DAY 3, Thursday - Frankfurt City Tour & Christmas Market

   Thu, Dec 19, 2024

   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 historic town center, or Römerberg, where you'll find wonderful examples of traditional half-timbered houses. 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
4. Day 4
   DAY 4, Friday - Mainz City Tour & Christmas Market

   Fri, Dec 20, 2024

   This afternoon, explore the city of Mainz. Founded by the Romans, the city is one of Germany's oldest cities with a history spanning almost 2000 years. Walk through the restored historic center, site of the market square. Free time to explore the local Christmas markets
   Overnight: River Cruise
   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
5. Day 5
   DAY 5, Saturday - Koblenz City Tour & Christmas Market

   Sat, Dec 21, 2024

   Continue cruising this morning, and take in the tranquil scenery of the iconic Rhine River. Upon arrival to Koblenz in early afternoon, join a local guide for a walking tour of the city. Located at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers, French influence is evident in the architecture and culture of the area. Before returning to the ship, be sure to check Koblenz's picturesque Christmas market, located in the Old Town
   Overnight: River Cruise
   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
6. Day 6
   DAY 6, Sunday - Cologne City Tour & Christmas Market

   Sun, Dec 22, 2024

   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. Later, discover the delights of Cologne on your own. A perfect opportunity to visit the city's Christmas market. In the evening, enjoy some well known Christmas tunes, by a popular local artist
   Overnight: River Cruise
   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
7. Day 7
   DAY 7, Monday - Dusseldorf City Tour & Christmas Market

   Mon, Dec 23, 2024

   Admire the quaint scenery along the banks of the Rhine River, before arriving in Dusseldorf this morning. Dusseldorf is a bustling city, with more than 100 galleries and numerous museums, a renowned opera house and famous for its carnival, nightlife and shopping. See symbolic Rheinturm Tower, one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the city's lively Christmas markets
   Overnight: River Cruise
   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
8. Day 8
   DAY 8, Tuesday - Amsterdam City Tour

   Tue, Dec 24, 2024

   Cruise into Amsterdam as you enjoy breakfast on board and join a panoramic tour of 700-year-old Amsterdam. View Amsterdam's port, one of the main harbors of Dutch East India Company during the Golden Age. Continue to the former Jewish quarter with its 17th century Portuguese Synagogue, and National Holocaust Names Memorial. Pass by the 19th century neighborhood with its classic architecture, museums, and lively squares. Then, board a glass-top boat, and cruise the winding canals for an up-close view of the stately historic homes, 16th century warehouses, and charming churches with striking bell towers. This evening bid farewell to your Cruise Director on your final night on board
   Overnight: River Cruise
   Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
9. Day 9
   DAY 9, Wednesday - Depart The Netherlands

   Wed, Dec 25, 2024

   This morning transfer to the airport in Amsterdam for your departure flight. The airport is approximately a 30 minute drive from the port. Disembarkation will end at 9:30 AM
   Meals: Breakfast

Inclusions

Price does not include airfare, departure or arrival transfers, airline taxes and fuel surcharges.

River Cruise Package Includes

Special Features

River Cruise Features & Amenities

Know Before You Book - High & Low Water

European river cruising has gained in popularity for very good reason. It's a relaxing and convenient way to experience Europe while enjoying the comfort of a deluxe ship. However, before making the decision to reserve your vacation, please be aware of potential conditions which may impact your cruise. While most of the time river cruises operate exactly as planned, weather conditions may result in high or low water levels which impact a ship's itinerary and, on occasion, render a ship unable to sail at all. On very rare occasions, other events such as heavy fog, a damaged lock, or an incapacitated vessel blocking the river, may impact a sailing. These events typically occur with little or no notice. In the event that a cruise is partially or completely impacted, the itinerary will be operated by deluxe motor coach, accompanied by a Tour Manager, with overnights in hotels. When the option exists, the operator will "swap ships" with another vessel sailing in the opposite direction, retaining the sailing experience. Crew, ship and cabin configuration may differ. The itinerary will include as many of the originally scheduled sightseeing features as possible, considering the travel time and distances required, as well as meals. While it is not possible to recreate the more leisurely comforts of sailings, we will endeavor to provide a comparable itinerary. These alternative services will be provided at no additional charge.

†Transfers are available for purchase for land only or on alternative flight dates

Not Included:
Optional shore excursions and gratuities.

Additional Information:
Christmas markets opening vary, and are seasonal.

Cruise only price does not include arrival/departure transfers.

Monarch Queen & Monarch Baroness: Passengers arriving to Frankfurt on day 2 should select flights that arrive no later than 2 PM.

Due to physical constraints and space limitations, wheelchairs and walkers are not allowed on motor coaches and/or river cruises. Kindly refer to our Terms for additional information.

While sailing with Monarch Cruises, passengers are subject to the cruise's Terms & Conditions which can be viewed at: .

Know Before You Book - High & Low Water

European river cruising has gained in popularity for very good reason. It's a relaxing and convenient way to experience Europe while enjoying the comfort of a deluxe ship. However, before making the decision to reserve your vacation, please be aware of potential conditions which may impact your cruise. While most of the time river cruises operate exactly as planned, weather conditions may result in high or low water levels which impact a ship's itinerary and, on occasion, render a ship unable to sail at all. On very rare occasions, other events such as heavy fog, a damaged lock, or an incapacitated vessel blocking the river, may impact a sailing. These events typically occur with little or no notice. In the event that a cruise is partially or completely impacted, the itinerary will be operated by deluxe motor coach, accompanied by a Tour Manager, with overnights in hotels. When the option exists, the operator will "swap ships" with another vessel sailing in the opposite direction, retaining the sailing experience. Crew, ship and cabin configuration may differ. The itinerary will include as many of the originally scheduled sightseeing features as possible, considering the travel time and distances required, as well as meals. While it is not possible to recreate the more leisurely comforts of sailings, we will endeavor to provide a comparable itinerary. These alternative services will be provided at no additional charge.

Please note that the following inclusions may contain items that are only applicable when you purchase Land & Air. The brochure prices below are for Land Only - call us for our best deal.

Ship Information

Cabins

Life on Board

Questions & Answers