11 Day Christmas Markets River Cruise with Amsterdam - Frankfurt to Amsterdam Monarch Queen
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The number of participants may vary during your tour as we accommodate travelers arriving and departing at different points in the itinerary.
DAY 1, Sunday - Depart for GermanyDepart for Germany
DAY 2, Monday - Arrive in Frankfurt, Cruise Embarkation
Arrive in Frankfurt and transfer to the port. Embarkation begins at 2 PM. Earlier arrivals have access to the ship lounge or can drop off luggage prior to check-in. 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, Tuesday - 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 to the historic town center, 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 before you set sail for Mainz
Overnight: River Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 4, Wednesday - Mainz City Tour & Christmas Market
This afternoon, explore the city of Mainz. Founded by the Romans, the city is one of Germany's oldest, 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
DAY 5, Thursday - 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. 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
DAY 6, Friday - 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. 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
DAY 7, Saturday - Dusseldorf City Tour & Christmas Market
This morning, while cruising to Dusseldorf, admire the quaint scenery along the banks of the Rhine River. Dusseldorf is a bustling city, with more than 100 galleries, numerous museums, and a renowned opera house. It's also 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 before setting sail this evening
Overnight: River Cruise
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
DAY 8, Sunday - Amsterdam City Tour
Today's panoramic tour of 700-year-old Amsterdam introduces you to both the old and the new sections of this city. 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
DAY 9, Monday - Disembarkation, Rijksmuseum Tour
Meet your local host as you disembark from the river cruise. Begin with a visit to the world-famous Rijksmuseum. On the guided tour you will explore the vast collection of works from some of the world's greatest artists including the Dutch masters Vermeer and Rembrandt. This afternoon is free for personal exploration. As you walk through the city, sample some of the much-loved local dishes like fresh herring, salty fries, local cheeses, or stop at a lively pub for a sampling of some of the renowned Dutch beers
Overnight: Amsterdam
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 10, Tuesday - Full Day in Amsterdam
Today is free to further explore Amsterdam on your own. Perhaps, experience a taste of real Dutch life by renting a bike to discover the little alleyways, hidden courtyards, and canal-side treasures, or shop for some last-minute Dutch souvenirs. Tonight, treat yourself to dinner at a fabulous restaurant, or join the effervescent night scene in this city filled with theaters, nightclubs, and spirited cafes
Overnight: Amsterdam
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 11, Wednesday - Depart The Netherlands
Transfer to the airport for your departure flight
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: Land/Cruise only price does not include arrival/departure transfers. 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.
Gratuities.
Additional Information:
Christmas markets opening vary, and are seasonal.
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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Hotel Jakarta Amsterdam
This first class hotel is located in Amsterdam, overlooking the IJ river.
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Gate 1 has always provided good travel experiences for me.
Speaking for my wife and I, we are of the age where we need slower guided tours. For example, we would be with the local guide and they would point out various shops, etc., but we would not be able to stop until the end of tour. We could not remember how to back track and find our way back in time.
I really liked this tour! It was nice only unpacking once.
Rui Miguel, tour guide could not have been a better match for the group of experienced travelers which made our group. Knowledgeable, professional, and humorous. Passionate about his country, his work and enjoyable to be around. Likewise the 2 other city guides, Pedro (Lisbon) and Marta (Porto). These tour guides were all cracked out of the same egg. Excellent!!! We have toured with two other companies. Gate 1 has something the others do not. Exceptional guides, exceptional communication, and exceptional itineraries which are affordable and fair. Because we choose to travel off season or shoulder I feel we get the best of all worlds. I always feel that we got the best we could at a price we were happy to pay. I have referred many to Gate 1. I will continue. (No, I did not collect a referral fee; they failed to mention, but they have all become Gate 1 travelers). Suggestions on the Affordable Portugal Itinerary: *Shorten Lisbon stay to 2 nights to allow personal time in Tomar or Porto. *Change "Bed options" in booking. It is not to my liking, as well as those we chatted with, to have to request a bed type at check in. I would like to preface this concern with the fact that the check-in rep was lovely, kind, and well spoken. The compaint: A tour reservation, (although many hotels do same thing),bed preference should be known and booked at time of booking. Our room, (we checked in at 3PM) was offered at twin, request was made for queen/double at desk. The request was given to a desk manager, then to the front Supervisor. Finally 15 minutes later with the desk lined up with check-ins were told "ok" and were told it was a very quiet room, in which we were most pleased. No, it was NOT a quiet room. Room 410 and those along that corridor were very noisy. EXTREMELY! Air conditioners/recycling bottle dump at 2AM/trash trucks/voices. Not a good sleeping experience at the Hotel Mondial. Others experienced same and mentioned as casual chit-chat.
Everyone loved our Tour Director, Jared, who was very competent and professional with a great sense of humor. We were lucky to have such a compatible large group of congenial and friendly people from all over the U.S. and a few from Canada.. The hotels, whether new and deluxe or in historic haciendas, exceeded our expectations as did the fully-packed itinerary of enjoyable museum and home visits, activities.
The trip was much more than i expected. Even though we had a relatively large group all activities ran very smoothly. The guide was extremely knowledgeable and informative. He answered questions easily and thoroughly. Several stops on the tour showed the life of the Turkish people.
Columbia SA has changed, the violence is gone and the tour was informative and interesting with great guides. Right now, the value for everything is a bargain compared to US prices
Chile, Patagonia, Argentina & Rio trip, 17 days, fast paced....wonderful! Gate 1 did a fabulous job coordinating everything, flights, transfers, attractions, etc. Special shout out to Silvana Cohen who was our tour director! Amazing job, attention to every participant!
Only thing that I didn’t like was that there are no airport transfers included.
This tour has exceeded my expectations. The place has so much to offer. Our tour manager (Eranga)was excellent and so was the driver and the assistant. Excellent accommodations and food.
This is a great tour. We saw so much of this beautiful country during the 2 weeks. Our tour guide and drivers were exceptional. Hotels were very nice. The meals that were included in our package were delicious and highlighted the local cuisine. Highly recommend this tour.
I was not picked up at the airport as I booked and paid for. I had to hire a cab which cost $150 and took 2 hours because the non-English speaking cab driver got lost several times. When I reached the hotel I learned that the hotel for the early nights in Playa del Carman had been changed. I never got an email telling me about the change. The Allergo Hi tower told me that they had never heard of Gate 1 even though this was the hotel on my itinerary. Fortunately there was another Gate 1 participant at the reception guest at the same time and gave me the name of the new hotel and I had a cab take me there. By the time I reached the original hotel Gate 1's office was closed and there was no one to contact. Due to this failure I would never book a Gate 1 tour again and have advised friends not to take any Gate 1 tours. Hopefully I will get reimbursed for the expense I incurred from Cancun Airport to Playa cel Carmen since I was not met and picked up as expected. The tour director was excellent and I saw marvelous sights. All hotels were unsatisfory and the food was mediocre to poor. I am ambivalent about having taken the tour and would never recommend it to anyone.
This trip is for dedicated travelers who recognize the North American roads and customs are not universal so we need to adapt quickly to what appears to be chaos, but in fact there are socially accepable systems and behaviors in place. We just have to learn them!
Our trip to Egypt was exceptional! Our accommodating Tour Manager, Ahmed was very knowledgeable and well versed with the history of the ancient Egyptian history and culture. The accommodations at the hotel and boat were impressive. The places we visited were amazing including the Optional tours. We have enjoyed this tour. We strongly recommend this tour!
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