Christmas River Cruises

Sail through fairy tale lands of magic and sparkle on these fun-filled festive itineraries

- Nick Dalton

TAKE A BREAK

During the busy festive season you might not have time for a full-length holiday, so a five-day break could be perfect. Riviera Travel offers a number of Enchanting Rhine & Yuletide Markets sailings in December on three ships with classic British names that simply conjure up candlelight and Christmas trees – Oscar Wilde, Emily Brontë and Thomas Hardy, the latter pair launched in 2017. The round-trip from Cologne takes in all the sights in the 2,000-year-old city, including its seven themed markets, Frankfurt (its 600-year-old Christmas market is one of the oldest in Europe), Koblenz (rich with the scent of roasting chestnuts), and Rüdesheim (warm up as you browse the stalls with a traditional coffee pepped up with local Asbach brandy and whipped cream).

Departs regularly from 1 December, from £549pp, including Eurostar travel from London St Pancras International (01283 888443; rivieratravel.co.uk).

SWISS BLISS

Sail into the snow-covered splendour of Switzerland on a Rhine river cruise. The Jura Mountains rise in the distance as you arrive in Basel at the end of an eight-day trip from Amsterdam on board sleek, contemporary Scenic Opal. Scenic’s 2018 voyage includes an overnight stay in Amsterdam with plenty of time to enjoy the dazzling 65ft tree outside the Royal Palace, the Ice Village market and the Winter Plaza ice rink. You’ll also visit Strasbourg, Cologne and Koblenz, and enjoy a classical concert in Rüdesheim.

Departs 5 December 2018, from £1,670pp, all-inclusive with flights (0808 149 6493; scenic.co.uk).

FRENCH DRESSING