9 Day Christmas River Cruise - Frankfurt to Amsterdam, Monarch Empress
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Tour Itinerary
DAY 1, Saturday - Depart for Germany
Depart for Germany
DAY 2, Sunday - Arrive in Frankfurt, Cruise Embarkation
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
DAY 3, Monday - 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, 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
DAY 4, Tuesday - Mainz City Tour & Christmas Market
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, home to one of the most beautiful Christmas markets in all of Germany
Overnight: River Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 5, Wednesday - Koblenz City Tour & Christmas Market
Continue cruising this morning, and take in the tranquil scenery of the iconic Rhine River. Upon arrival to Koblenz in the 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. The afternoon is yours to discover the various festive market stalls
Overnight: River Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 6, Thursday - Cologne City Tour & Christmas Market
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. In the evening, enjoy some well known Christmas tunes, by a popular local artist
Overnight: River Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 7, Friday - Dusseldorf City Tour & Christmas Market
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. Visit the historic Old Town area to wander through the various markets
Overnight: River Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 8, Saturday - Amsterdam City Tour & Christmas Market
Experience Amsterdam, the capital city of the Netherlands with its renowned museums and historical sites. Board a glass-top boat and cruise the winding canals for an up-close view of the stately historical homes, 16th century warehouses and charming churches. Continue on foot to view the Anne Frank House, the Royal Palace on Amsterdam's Dam Square and the Dutch National Museum dedicated as a memorial to victims of WWII. Rejoin the ship for lunch on board and spend a leisurely afternoon in Amsterdam. Your final night onboard is marked by a festive Farewell Dinner and local entertainment. Share wonderful memories of your cruise with your Tour Manager and newfound friends
Overnight: River Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 9, 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
Please Note: Land Price does not include airfare, departure or arrival transfers, airline taxes and fuel surcharges.
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Please Note: Land Price does not include airfare, departure or arrival transfers, airline taxes and fuel surcharges.
River Cruise Package Includes
Other departure cities available.
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: 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.
Optional shore excursions and gratuities.
Additional Information:
Cruise only price does not include arrival/departure transfers.
Health and Safety Protocols for Gate1 Tours
At Gate 1 we take your safety and security very seriously. We have a strong network of tour managers, local offices, ground operators and colleagues which help us stay informed in all the destinations that we operate. We closely monitor local situations which enable us to make the operational decisions necessary to keep our tours running safely. Millions of people travel the world each year and experience enjoyable and safe trips but crimes against people and property are sadly a fact of life. It is very important to be aware of your surroundings and avoid drawing attention to yourself. Please remember that you have the same responsibility for your personal safety and possessions as you do at home. It is essential to prepare for a safe and healthy travel abroad. Therefore before you travel, we strongly recommend that you visit the website of the US Department of State at https://travel.state.gov/content/travel.html for up-to-date travel advice on the countries that you are visiting. The website provides useful information on subjects such as safety and security information, health precautions and medications, health insurance and additional tips for traveling abroad. If you do not reside in the United States, we recommend you check your government's travel advisory website for any country you will be visiting. We recommend that you review the safety guidance that may be provided by us, our agents or suppliers, either before you go or when you arrive in your destination. You can also find helpful tips on our website in the "Trip Preparation" tab of each of our tour packages. We do know that in-spite of careful planning, things can sometimes still go wrong, so rest assured, we will be there to help and support you.
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