3-Day Rhine Cruises
Insider tips: Recommended 3-day Rhine itineraries
Compiled by
MelissaRhine travel expert at TourRadar
3 Days Christmas Rhine River Cruise, incl. Strasbourg and Colmar
A charming Christmas cruise connects three captivating destinations: Strasbourg's cathedral market, Colmar's artistic quarter, and Breisach for midnight mass. Starting at approx. $190 per day, the recently refurbished MS Victor Hugo offers inclusive meals, Christmas Eve dinner, and guided excursions.
- Day 1
Strasbourg Christmas Markets
Board the MS Victor Hugo in Strasbourg at 3 PM. Get there 30 minutes early for a smooth check-in. The ship's central docking location puts you within walking distance of the famous Place Broglie Christmas market. Dress warmly since December temperatures usually fall below 40°F (4°C). Visit the Cathedral market first during daylight for photos, then explore Place Broglie after dark when the lights create a beautiful atmosphere.
- Day 2
Colmar & Breisach Christmas Eve
Start your morning cruising the Rhine to Colmar. Unlike Strasbourg's bigger markets, Colmar offers five smaller, charming markets throughout its old town. Take time to visit the Koïfhus covered market, set in a medieval customs house where you can find local artisans selling traditional crafts. The ship docks in Breisach, Germany for Christmas Eve. You might want to join the midnight mass at St. Stephansmünster cathedral. It's only a 10-minute walk from the dock, but wear good shoes for the steep cobblestone climb.
- Day 3
Return to Strasbourg
Spend your final morning taking in the Rhine River views during the cruise back to Strasbourg. You'll arrive between 3-4 PM. Since this is a small ship, getting off is usually quick and simple. If you're traveling onward, you can reach the main train station by taxi in about 15 minutes.
Rhineland Christmas on the Romantic Rhine (port-to-port cruise)
Christmas magic flows through three days of market visits, celebratory dining, and midnight mass. Daily activities blend with scenic sailing between historic ports.
New Year on the Wild Rhine (port-to-port cruise) - VICTOR HUGO
Sail the majestic Rhine visiting Strasbourg's UNESCO-listed Grande Île and medieval Breisach. MS Victor Hugo's boutique size enables intimate views of historic waterfronts. Ring in the New Year with champagne between two iconic Rhine ports.
Rhine 3 Day Tour Packages You'll Love
Rhineland Christmas on the Romantic Rhine (port-to-port cruise) - VICTOR HUGO
Rhineland Christmas on the Romantic Rhine (port-to-port cruise)
New Year on the Wild Rhine (port-to-port cruise) - VICTOR HUGO
New Year on the Wild Rhine (port-to-port cruise)
The Most Beautiful Christmas Markets on a Cruise through Alsace - Strasbourg, Colmar, delicious food, and festive lights during the pre-holiday season (port-to-port cruise) (from Breisach to Strasbourg)
The Most Beautiful Christmas Markets on a Cruise through Alsace - Strasbourg, Colmar, delicious food, and festive lights during the pre-holiday season (port-to-port cruise)
