Rhine Valley Christmas Markets - JG Explorer

We catch the ferry to Calais and journey onwards to the Rheinstein Hotel.

After breakfast, we cross the Rhine by ferry from Rüdesheim to Bingen, then continue to Boppard. Wander through Boppard’s festive Christmas market, surrounded by timber-framed houses and seasonal lights. Enjoy a glass of mulled wine, browse the stalls for handcrafted gifts, or simply soak up the cheerful atmosphere.

We then travel on to Koblenz, set at the meeting point of the Rhine and Moselle rivers at the famous Deutsches Eck. Here, the enchanting Old Town hosts a network of Christmas markets with more than 130 stalls offering decorations, local crafts and traditional festive treats. You may also wish to take the cable car across the Rhine to the Ehrenbreitstein Fortress (at own expense), for a visit and wonderful views over the rivers and town. There is time to explore at leisure before we follow the east bank of the Rhine back to Rüdesheim, for an evening at leisure.

Today begins with a ferry crossing from Rüdesheim to Bingen, followed by a visit to Bacharach – often called one of the Rhine’s most picturesque towns. Enjoy a two-hour stop wandering its cobbled streets, timber-framed houses and charming squares. We return to Rüdesheim via ferry to enjoy the town at leisure. Experience the joy of Christmas in this enchanting riverside setting on your last evening. Spend the afternoon exploring the Christmas market in the historic Old Town, sampling festive drinks and treats and browsing local crafts from cuckoo clocks to toys.

For a little extra relaxation, book a two-hour slot at the sister Rhein Hotel to enjoy the sauna, jacuzzi and steam room facilities for a small nominal charge (bookable at reception).

After breakfast we check out of our hotel and head back to Calais for our return ferry home.