The Magic of Christmas with A-ROSA Cruises
The Christmas season in European cities is a special time when squares light up, the aroma of spices fills the air, and a warm, enchanting atmosphere spreads throughout. For those looking to experience this magic in an unforgettable way, A-ROSA Christmas Market Cruises offer a unique journey, bringing travelers to explore Europe’s most charming cities and markets aboard elegant and welcoming ships.
Starting from the end of November, A-ROSA ships sail the Danube and the Rhine, visiting major capitals and delightful towns along the way. With stops at famous Christmas markets and entertainment on board, each cruise is designed to immerse guests in the festive atmosphere. During the Christmas and New Year’s cruises, guests are also welcomed with special performances and can admire festively decorated ships.
ARosa Clea
Frankfurt
As soon as the Christmas markets open their doors, A-ROSA ships begin their season with itineraries ranging from 4 to 5 days. These cruises offer the opportunity to visit some of the most enchanting markets in Germany, Austria, France, Slovakia, and the Netherlands. Destinations include iconic cities where visitors can explore a variety of distinct markets. In Vienna, for instance, the magical holiday ambiance comes alive with over twenty Advent markets, including the famous one at Rathausplatz, in the heart of the city. In Linz, a quieter and more traditional setting awaits visitors in the historic center, where tastefully decorated stalls are nestled between ancient baroque buildings.
The Rhine cruises include must-see stops in Strasbourg, Rüdesheim, Koblenz, Mainz, and Frankfurt. Each city shows its unique charm at this time of year; Strasbourg, for example, hosts France’s oldest Christmas market, which from November 27 transforms the city center around the cathedral into a sea of lights. Rüdesheim, in the Rheingau region, is ideal for savoring mulled wine crafted by local winemakers, while the Christmas Market of Nations allows visitors to discover customs, foods, and goods from over 20 countries. Each European Christmas market thus offers a unique blend of traditions and ambiance, from enchanting lights adorning the streets to the spicy fragrances of mulled wine and traditional sweets, creating a magical experience for visitors of all ages.
WEIHNACHTSMARKT
Wien
On Christmas Eve, A-ROSA ships will be in enchanting destinations such as Amsterdam, Antwerp, Bratislava, Frankfurt, Strasbourg, and Vienna. These cruises offer a unique opportunity to spend Christmas surrounded by magical atmospheres and spectacular on-board events. A-ROSA artists, like Jeffery Staten and Petter Bjällö, will entertain passengers with their captivating voices, while the Grand Celli Duo will bring an exciting cello concert to life, with Christmas classics reinterpreted in a modern style. On Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, guests will also enjoy culinary delights: along with gala buffets, freshly baked treats, mulled wine, and traditional drinks like eggnog will be served, offering a complete sensory experience.
The New Year 2024/2025 will be celebrated with special itineraries that allow guests to ring in the new year in some of the most beautiful capitals along the Danube and the Rhine. Among the destinations on the Danube, Budapest, Bratislava, and Vienna provide breathtaking backdrops for the celebrations, while on the Rhine, the ships will reach destinations like Amsterdam, Basel, Frankfurt, and Rotterdam. The New Year’s Eve celebrations will be enriched by unique performances, such as Marion Wilmer’s, transporting the audience into the world of musicals with her intense voice, and Shezad Eikmeier, as “Shelvis,” paying tribute to the legacy of Elvis Presley with his most famous hits. The celebration continues on New Year’s Day, with a grand buffet and the traditional charity raffle, with proceeds going to support charitable projects.
Rotterdam
Amsterdam
To make the experience extra special for younger guests, the A-ROSA Kids Club will be on board for select cruises, offering a festive entertainment program with activities like baking Christmas cookies. This is a perfect opportunity for children to experience the magic of Christmas while parents enjoy the scenery and festive ambiance on board.
A-ROSA Christmas Market and Holiday Cruises are much more than just a vacation: they are an immersion into European holiday traditions and magic. Through unique experiences, beautiful markets, and unforgettable performances, each journey becomes an adventure that leaves lasting memories. With a special attention to detail and a varied, engaging offer, A-ROSA captures the beauty and enchanted atmosphere of Christmas, making each cruise a unique experience.
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