Christmas Markets of the Rhine and Amsterdam 2024

We recently embarked on a delightful journey to explore the enchanting European Christmas markets along the Rhine River. Our trip commenced with a captivating visit to Amsterdam, a city brimming with captivating sights and an electrifying energy. Additionally, we ventured to charming nearby towns, including Delft, The Hague, and Rotterdam, each offering its unique charm and historical significance.

Amsterdam sunrise
The view from our hotel of the many canals

Amsterdam’s City Center is home to many canals, which are a unique feature of the city. The canals and the architecture of the homes and businesses that line them give the area a distinctive character and make it a fun place to explore.

The oldest church in town - Oude Kerk
Beautiful City Center

Amsterdam’s cultural identity is deeply intertwined with its bicycles. For locals, navigating the city center by bike is an essential part of daily life. Every street and canal is lined with thousands of bikes, making it a constant challenge to stay alert as they zip by at high speed, seemingly materializing out of thin air.

Bikes and canals mix throughout the City Center
A local on the way to work in true Amsterdam fashion

Amsterdam boasts numerous world-class art exhibits, featuring renowned artists like Rembrandt and Van Gogh.

World-class museums are plentiful
Library at the Rijksmuseum

We had a wonderful time exploring the charming cities outside the City Center. We visited Delft, a mini-version of Amsterdam, The Hague, and Rotterdam. Our knowledgeable guide shared many fascinating places, including art galleries and cultural gems.

...So much to see and enjoy

Our trip to Amsterdam was an incredible way to kick off our Christmas Market Cruise. The city and its surrounding areas are brimming with sights and activities to explore. I’m already looking forward to our next visit, perhaps during tulip season!

Colorful row houses near the waterfront

Christmas Markets Cruise on AmaWaterways

After a delightful few days in Amsterdam, we embarked on a journey south aboard the AmaLucia. Our mission was to explore the enchanting Christmas markets nestled along the picturesque Rhine River. Along the way, we made several stops in Germany and France, culminating in our final destination, Basel, Switzerland.

The AMALUCIA was beautifully decorated for the holidays
Cruising past castles and charming towns along the Rhine River

Each Christmas Market was unique with a variety of hand-made goods, crafts, Christmas decorations, and of course - food and gluhwein!

The market next to the Cologne Cathedral in Germany
Great shopping and food across the Christmas Markets

Scenic towns

In addition to exploring the vibrant Christmas Markets, we embarked on a journey to visit several picturesque towns and renowned cities. The cathedrals of Strasbourg and Cologne stand as world-renowned architectural marvels. The charming town of Colmar, France, holds a special place in literature, as it is believed to have inspired the enchanting town in Beauty and the Beast. Despite our limited free time, we indulged in some window shopping as we moved from market to market, capturing the essence of each town’s unique charm.

Strasbourg - "The Capital of Christmas"
So much fun to walk through the festive decorated towns
Colmar, France - postcard picture perfect

After disembarking from the cruise, we visited one last Christmas Market in Basel, Switzerland, and marveled at the city’s enchanting lights before returning home. It was an incredible trip!

Basel at night
Created By
Jeffrey Lamarche

Credits:

JJL Photography