Christmas Magic in Alsace: an exceptional evening at the National Opera of the Rhine and the enchantment of the medieval Christmas market in Ribeauvillé (port-to-port)

3 nights from £617pp departing Friday 13th Dec 2024

Set off to discover the Alsatian Christmas markets, a return to festivities rooted in tradition. Youll be captivated by this world of delightful aromas, handcrafted treasures, and lights that fill the pathways, offering surprising and delicious encounters along the way.

Itinerary

Map

					Arrive	Depart
	13th13	DecDec	202424	Strasbourg, France, embark on the MS Monet	18:00
Reception at 3:00 p.m. Transfer by coach to the National Opera of the Rhine, a prestigious theater renowned for its neoclassical architecture and exceptional acoustics. You will be welcomed into the private Bastide Hall for a cocktail before attending the famous ballet, a Christmas season favorite, The Nutcracker, composed by Tchaikovsky. The story unfolds on Christmas Eve, when Clara, a young girl, receives a magical Nutcracker that comes to life and takes her on an enchanting journey through the Kingdom of Sweets. With its lavish sets, sparkling costumes, and captivating music, The Nutcracker embodies the Christmas spirit and invites you to immerse yourself in a dreamlike world of magic, evoking the joy and wonder of the holiday season.
	14th14	DecDec	202424	Strasbourg, France
Included day excursion: Strasbourg and Christmas markets. Departure for a panoramic tour of the city, giving you a great overview of its history and landmarks. Youll catch glimpses of parts of the Strasbourg port, remnants of the citys ancient fortifications built by Vauban, the European Quarter, the German Quarter (Neustadt), then the medieval Old Town, as well as several historic religious buildings. The visit continues on foot through Old Strasbourg, leading to the Petite France district, the most picturesque part of old Strasbourg. This area, once home to fishermen, millers, and tanners, was built directly on the waters edge. The beautiful half-timbered houses date back to the 16th and 17th centuries, with steep roofs that once opened to attics used to dry hides. You will then head to the Cathedral Square (exterior view). With its spire reaching 142 meters high, the cathedral, adorned with delicate pink sandstone, dominates the Alsace plain. Dont miss the Kammerzell House (1589), decorated with carved beams and half-timbering.Lunch on board. The afternoon is free to explore the Christmas markets. For four centuries, the iconic Christkindelsmrik has cast its magic in the heart of this European capital. Over 300 wooden chalets, spread across various squares in the city, offer the most enchanting finds in a magical atmosphere. In the evening, enjoy a tour of the Christmas lights with the onboard entertainment team: Cathedral Square, Place Klber, the Golden Square, Place Gutenberg, and more. Return to the ship. Dinner and accommodation on board
	15th15	DecDec	202424	Strasbourg, France
Included day excursion: the Wine Route and Colmar. Departure to explore the Alsatian vineyard. The Alsace Wine Route, the oldest in France, is dotted with typical, colorful villages and medieval castles. During the Christmas market season, Alsace lights up and transforms into a grand celebration under the fir trees. You will notably see Riquewihr, the jewel of the vineyard, and Kaysersberg, the birthplace of Dr. Schweitzer. Alsace is also home to seven grape varieties and must-try Grand Crus, awakening all the senses. A stop at a local winery will allow you to taste the famous Alsace wines, where white wine reigns supreme. Lunch at a restaurant.Free exploration of the Christmas market in Ribeauvill, an essential stop in this picturesque village where medieval ambiance mingles with festive magic. Between artisan stalls, costumed performances, and local delicacies, immerse yourself in a unique atmosphere that transports you through time. Then, head to Colmar. Let yourself be charmed by the intimate and warm atmosphere of this city of art and history, whose exceptional heritage serves as a backdrop for the festivities. Everywhere you look, you'll find beautifully decorated shop windows and houses, along with lively streets and alleys filled with the scents of orange and cinnamon. As night falls, a subtle play of light highlights the countless architectural treasures from the Middle Ages to the 19th century. A beautiful pathway of lights guides the visitor to discover the five Christmas markets, each nestled in an idyllic setting and exuding its own unique identity.Return to Strasbourg. Dinner while cruising. Accommodation on board.
	16th16	DecDec	202424	Strasbourg, France, disembark the MS Monet
Buffet breakfast on board.End of our services at 9:00 a.m.

MS Monet

Launch Year

1999

Refit Year

2007

Tonnage

15,000

Capacity

158

Cabins

Accessible

Sun Deck

Upper Deck

Main Deck

The images shown are for illustration purposes only and may not be an exact representation of what you find on the ship.

Restaurant

Located on the upper deck, the restaurant is where all meals are served during your cruise. It seats all guests at tables which vary in size with a panoramic view. The atmosphere is casual but elegant.

The images shown are for illustration purposes only and may not be an exact representation of what you find on the ship.

Lounge & Bar

The lounge tastefully decorated, is located at the front of the ship and offers panoramic views. Cocktails and games, dancing, and other forms of entertainment all happen here.

Sun Deck

Take advantage of the sun deck to relax! It is equipped with chairs and deckchairs, allowing you to cool off while enjoying a panoramic view of the magnificent landscapes.

The images shown are for illustration purposes only and may not be an exact representation of what you find on the ship.

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Holiday Summary

	3 nights cruising on the Rhine
	All meals included
	Drinks included with meals & at the bar
	Gala dinner & evening welcome cocktail
	Free Wi-Fi in lounge & bar
	Headsets included for excursions
	Travel Assistance & Repatriation Insurance
	Port Taxes and Fees
	ABTA and ATOL Protection*

Oceanview staterooms from		£617pp
C_TWN_PP	Cat C (Main Deck, 2 Single Beds)	£617pp
C_TPL_PP	Cat C (Main Deck, Triple)	£617pp

	Oceanview
	(All prices are £GBP per person)
Fri 13th Dec 202413 Dec 24	527
Thu 19th Dec 202419 Dec 24	527
Tue 9th Dec 202509 Dec 25	603
Fri 12th Dec 202512 Dec 25	541
Mon 15th Dec 202515 Dec 25	603
Thu 18th Dec 202518 Dec 25	541