We have bought the heavy coats, sweaters, hats and gloves. Now were traveling over 4300 miles to embark on our first Viking River Cruise. Our 8-Day Rhine Getaway itinerary begins in Amsterdam and ends in Basel, Switzerland. Why the cold weather gear, you ask? Because this cruise will be a special “Christmas markets” sailing. Held during the pre-christmas weeks of late November through December. The daily highs for our scheduled ports will be in the low 40’s or 30’s °F.
Christmas Markets or “Christ child markets” can be traced back to the middle ages. They originated in Germany, Austria, Italy and many French regions. Present day they are now being held in many other countries. The markets are held in town squares and offer food, drink and entertainment. Often described as having a Carnival atmosphere, they sell seasonal items from open-air stalls.
Our journey will take us through the Rhine River, visiting historic Cathedrals, Castles and Christmas Markets along the way. Highlights of the trip will be stops at the Windmills of Kinderdijk, Cologne’s Dom, Touring the 700 yr old Marksburg Castle and much more.
We will cruise aboard one of Viking River Cruises newest longships, Viking Tor. Built in 2013 and designed by celebrated maritime architects Yran & Storbraate, the same team behind the Disney Dream and the Yachts of Seabourn. Technically advanced by design, she features onboard organic herb-gardens, solar panels and hybrid diesel-electric engines. Accommodating 190 passengers in 95 staterooms. You won’t find any Casino, Spa or Water slides aboard this ship. The destination will be the primary focus with our stops being right in the city centers with the Christmas Markets being just steps away.
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Learn More about Viking River Cruises, Christmas Markets
