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11 Day Christmas Markets River Cruise with Amsterdam - Frankfurt to Amsterdam Monarch Princess

Amsterdam, Netherlands Round-trip
Length: 11 Days - Departs: Tue, Dec 15, 2026
Operator
Departure
Dec 15, 2026
Arrival
Dec 25, 2026

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Price does not include airfare, departure or arrival transfers, airline taxes and fuel surcharges.

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Gate 1 offers the flexibility of paying for your vacation by credit card or check. Choose check for your final payment to save 5% off of your remaining balance. Full details will be sent with your invoice.


River Cruise Itinerary

  1. Day 1
    DAY 1, Tuesday - Depart for Germany
    Tue, Dec 15, 2026
    Depart for Germany
  2. Day 2
    DAY 2, Wednesday - Arrive in Frankfurt, Cruise Embarkation
    Wed, Dec 16, 2026
    Arrive in Frankfurt and transfer to the port. Embarkation begins at 2 PM. Earlier arrivals have access to the ship lounge or can drop off luggage prior to check-in. After arrival formalities, time to relax on board. This evening, meet your Cruise Director, and enjoy a dinner as it sets the festive mood for your delightful river cruise
    Overnight: River Cruise
    Meals: Dinner
  3. Day 3
    DAY 3, Thursday - Frankfurt City Tour & Christmas Market
    Thu, Dec 17, 2026
    This morning, take a walking tour of the city with your local guide. Frankfurt is home of the European Central Bank and financial heart of Germany. Situated on the banks of the River Main, Frankfurt is a city of contrasts. Its famous modern skyline is a striking backdrop to the historic town center, Römerberg, where you'll find wonderful examples of traditional half-timbered houses. Spend the afternoon at the Frankfurt Christmas market. Held for over 600 years, this traditional market is the highlight of the holiday season. A variety of stalls feature unique decorations and holiday gifts. A visit to the market is not complete without a glass of mulled wine and some local delicacies before you set sail for Mainz
    Overnight: River Cruise
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  4. Day 4
    DAY 4, Friday - Mainz City Tour & Christmas Market
    Fri, Dec 18, 2026
    This afternoon, explore the city of Mainz. Founded by the Romans, the city is one of Germany's oldest, with a history spanning almost 2000 years. Walk through the restored historic center, site of the market square. Free time to explore the local Christmas markets
    Overnight: River Cruise
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  5. Day 5
    DAY 5, Saturday - Koblenz City Tour & Christmas Market
    Sat, Dec 19, 2026
    Continue cruising this morning and take in the tranquil scenery of the iconic Rhine River. Upon arrival to Koblenz in the early afternoon, join a local guide for a walking tour of the city. Located at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers, French influence is evident in the architecture and culture of the area. Before returning to the ship, be sure to check Koblenz's picturesque Christmas market, located in the Old Town
    Overnight: River Cruise
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  6. Day 6
    DAY 6, Sunday - Cologne City Tour & Christmas Market
    Sun, Dec 20, 2026
    Depart for dynamic Cologne, with its 2000 year-old history, often called the capital of the Rhineland. Embark on a walking tour of the city, most famous for its Roman origins. Linger at the striking 13th century Cologne Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with its soaring twin spires. Known for its vibrant art scene, Cologne abounds with cafes, galleries, shops, and taverns. Later, discover the delights of Cologne on your own. A perfect opportunity to visit the city's Christmas market. In the evening, enjoy some well-known Christmas tunes by a popular local artist
    Overnight: River Cruise
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  7. Day 7
    DAY 7, Monday - Dusseldorf City Tour & Christmas Market
    Mon, Dec 21, 2026
    This morning, while cruising to Dusseldorf, admire the quaint scenery along the banks of the Rhine River. Dusseldorf is a bustling city, with more than 100 galleries, numerous museums, and a renowned opera house. It's also famous for its carnival, nightlife, and shopping. See symbolic Rheinturm Tower, one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city. Don't miss the opportunity to visit the city's lively Christmas markets before setting sail this evening
    Overnight: River Cruise
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  8. Day 8
    DAY 8, Tuesday - Amsterdam City Tour
    Tue, Dec 22, 2026
    Today's panoramic tour of 700-year-old Amsterdam introduces you to both the old and the new sections of this city. View Amsterdam's port, one of the main harbors of Dutch East India Company during the Golden Age. Continue to the former Jewish quarter with its 17th century Portuguese Synagogue, and National Holocaust Names Memorial. Pass by the 19th century neighborhood with its classic architecture, museums, and lively squares. Then, board a glass-top boat, and cruise the winding canals for an up-close view of the stately historic homes, 16th century warehouses, and charming churches with striking bell towers. This evening bid farewell to your Cruise Director on your final night on board
    Overnight: River Cruise
    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  9. Day 9
    DAY 9, Wednesday - Disembarkation, Rijksmuseum Tour
    Wed, Dec 23, 2026
    Meet your local host as you disembark from the river cruise. Begin with a visit to the world-famous Rijksmuseum. On the guided tour you will explore the vast collection of works from some of the world's greatest artists including the Dutch masters Vermeer and Rembrandt. This afternoon is free for personal exploration. As you walk through the city, sample some of the much-loved local dishes like fresh herring, salty fries, local cheeses, or stop at a lively pub for a sampling of some of the renowned Dutch beers
    Overnight: Amsterdam
    Meals: Breakfast
  10. Day 10
    DAY 10, Thursday - Full Day in Amsterdam
    Thu, Dec 24, 2026
    Today is free to further explore Amsterdam on your own. Perhaps, experience a taste of real Dutch life by renting a bike to discover the little alleyways, hidden courtyards, and canal-side treasures, or shop for some last-minute Dutch souvenirs. Tonight, treat yourself to dinner at a fabulous restaurant, or join the effervescent night scene in this city filled with theaters, nightclubs, and spirited cafes
    Overnight: Amsterdam
    Meals: Breakfast
  11. Day 11
    DAY 11, Friday - Depart The Netherlands
    Fri, Dec 25, 2026
    Transfer to the airport for your departure flight
    Meals: Breakfast

Countries Visited

Netherlands, Germany

Rivers Visited

Danube

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Inclusions

Price does not include airfare, departure or arrival transfers, airline taxes and fuel surcharges.

River Cruise Package Includes

  • Flights New York-Frankfurt, Amsterdam-New York
    Other departure cities available.
  • 9 nights accommodations
  • 7 nights outside cabin aboard the Deluxe the Superior First Class or the First Class
  • 2 nights Amsterdam
  • River port charges of $190 per person
  • Cruise porterage
  • All transfers included only with airfare purchase on package arrival & departure dates†
  • 22 meals: 9 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 7 dinners
  • Cruise director & activities host throughout cruise
  • Local host in Amsterdam
  • Services of local guides
  • Shore excursions per itinerary
  • Entrance fees per itinerary
  • Comfortable wireless earphones for enhanced touring during excursions
  •  

    Special Features

  • Enjoy Christmas-themed entertainment onboard
  • Experience the charm of the world-famous Christmas markets
  • Explore Frankfurt, a city of contrasts with both modern and historical influences
  • Cruise the Rhine in Mainz with stunning vistas of hilltop castles and villages
  • Visit Koblenz, located at the confluence of the "German Corner" where the Rhine & Moselle Rivers meet
  • Sail on the legendary Rhine to Cologne, capital of the Rhineland
  • See symbolic Rheinturm Tower in Dusseldorf, one of the most recognizable landmarks in the city
  • In Amsterdam, board a glass-top boat and cruise the winding canals
  •  

    River Cruise Features & Amenities

  • Wine and beer with dinners
  • Early riser breakfast in addition to buffet breakfast
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi access in public areas
  • Self-serve coffee and tea station
  • Lounge serving premium spirits
  • Fitness center and daily morning exercises
  • Non-smoking ship interior
  • Shore excursions conducted exclusively in English
  • Know Before You Book - High & Low Water

    European river cruising has gained in popularity for very good reason. It's a relaxing and convenient way to experience Europe while enjoying the comfort of a deluxe ship. However, before making the decision to reserve your vacation, please be aware of potential conditions which may impact your cruise. While most of the time river cruises operate exactly as planned, weather conditions may result in high or low water levels which impact a ship's itinerary and, on occasion, render a ship unable to sail at all. On very rare occasions, other events such as heavy fog, a damaged lock, or an incapacitated vessel blocking the river, may impact a sailing. These events typically occur with little or no notice. In the event that a cruise is partially or completely impacted, the itinerary will be operated by deluxe motor coach, accompanied by a Tour Manager, with overnights in hotels. When the option exists, the operator will "swap ships" with another vessel sailing in the opposite direction, retaining the sailing experience. Crew, ship and cabin configuration may differ. The itinerary will include as many of the originally scheduled sightseeing features as possible, considering the travel time and distances required, as well as meals. While it is not possible to recreate the more leisurely comforts of sailings, we will endeavor to provide a comparable itinerary. These alternative services will be provided at no additional charge.

    †Transfers are available for purchase for land only or on alternative flight dates

    Not Included:
    Gratuities.


    Additional Information:
    Christmas markets opening vary, and are seasonal.

    Land/Cruise only price does not include arrival/departure transfers.

    Due to physical constraints and space limitations, wheelchairs and walkers are not allowed on motor coaches and/or river cruises. Kindly refer to our Terms for additional information.

    While sailing with Monarch Cruises, passengers are subject to the cruise's Terms & Conditions which can be viewed at: .

    Know Before You Book - High & Low Water

    European river cruising has gained in popularity for very good reason. It's a relaxing and convenient way to experience Europe while enjoying the comfort of a deluxe ship. However, before making the decision to reserve your vacation, please be aware of potential conditions which may impact your cruise. While most of the time river cruises operate exactly as planned, weather conditions may result in high or low water levels which impact a ship's itinerary and, on occasion, render a ship unable to sail at all. On very rare occasions, other events such as heavy fog, a damaged lock, or an incapacitated vessel blocking the river, may impact a sailing. These events typically occur with little or no notice. In the event that a cruise is partially or completely impacted, the itinerary will be operated by deluxe motor coach, accompanied by a Tour Manager, with overnights in hotels. When the option exists, the operator will "swap ships" with another vessel sailing in the opposite direction, retaining the sailing experience. Crew, ship and cabin configuration may differ. The itinerary will include as many of the originally scheduled sightseeing features as possible, considering the travel time and distances required, as well as meals. While it is not possible to recreate the more leisurely comforts of sailings, we will endeavor to provide a comparable itinerary. These alternative services will be provided at no additional charge.

    Please note that the following inclusions may contain items that are only applicable when you purchase Land & Air. The brochure prices below are for Land Only - call us for our best deal.

    OR Call Us For a Free Quote 1-800-342-0019

    Ship Information

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    Cabins

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    Life on Board

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    Questions & Answers
      Ask A Question

    Question: Will the day-by-day itinerary change?

    Yes, the river cruise itineraries may change due to reasons such as inclement weather or unforeseen events. Your safety is the number one concern aboard and all precautions necessary will be taken in order to ensure passenger safety, including changing itineraries. Please note that when itineraries do change, the ship staff will do their best to substitute any missed port with an alternative destination.

    Question: In what language is the river cruise conducted?

    The river cruise will be conducted in English only.

    Customer Reviews

    Overall Rating
    4.5
    Accommodations
    4.4
    Itinerary
    4.4
    Professional Staff
    4.7
    Repeat with Operator
    4.4
    Value for Money
    4.6

    Ratings based off 35 reviews - currently showing 14 reviews with comments only

    Great trip,all went smoothly,great tour, lovely sites , great food and drinks. Will go again!!!

    David was great. He helped me find a great cruise at a great price, which was a challenge considering that I was booking two single rooms.

    Adam was excellent. Very helpful.

    The Gate 1 River Cruise was absolutely amazing.

    Simple process and nice to have your own rep. Had travelled on viking before, and found our gate one tour very good compatible for better value

    Gate 1 Danube River cruise exceeded our expectations and provided terrific service AND value! Beautiful ship and fabulous staff. Don't let their 'travel for less' slogan mislead you: they deliver FULL VALUE and service. We would travel with them again in a heartbeat.

    We had a wonderful time on this trip (14 day Danube with Budapest and Prague). One thing we noticed in the cabin: 1. Lack of outlets/USB ports at bedside tables 2. WiFi was really too basic. Dining room: While the breakfast and desserts were good, the lunch and dinner items left much to be desired. There was a lack of vegetable variety. The soups were very salty and the fish was fishy.

    Greatly appreciated the sessions that included information on the next days ports. Also found the on site mini tours of each port very enjoyable. Although we elected to go on much of the optional paid tours, it was great to learn some background information of each site.

    I will only book Gare 1 going forward. This was an excellent experience.

    Although we had to cut our trip short due to an illness. Shannon was there to make sure everything was taken care of.

    GateOne did a great job in every detail. We were pleased with the food, events, tours and staff. The complete tour was delightful. Thanks for a great experience!

    The operator's staff was friendly, efficient, and professional. Would definitely travel with them again.

    An amazing trip in every way--staff, crew, and, in fact, all who worked on the boat gave A+++ service--have raved about the trip to all my friends. On-land accommodations were also commensurate with ship accommodations, including guides, bus drivers, and hotels and hotel staff. .

    We loved the casual atmosphere on the river cruise portion of the trip. Our guides throughout were exceptional in their knowledge and personal relations. The entire staff was always friendly and helpful. There were so many good experiences and trips. We were exhausted by the last day. Maybe too many good experiences with too little time to explore on our own. We were able to see so much for a very reasonable cost. Hopefully, another Gate 1 trip is in our future.

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    AffordableTours.com is a travel agent for Gate1. Brochure Price is based on the itinerary's highest brochure price. Our price reflects our base price for the same departure as Brochure Price. All prices, itineraries, accommodations and dates are subject to change without notice and at any time. All prices are USD per person and based on double occupancy. Availability is limited and must be reconfirmed at time of booking. All prices change frequently and our website prices are not guaranteed until a deposit has been received by us. The prices on our website are intended to serve as a guide only and may not accurately reflect current prices. We are not responsible for errors, omissions, or changes in these prices until a booking has been confirmed by one of our agents. Please call us toll free at 1-800-342-0019 to confirm current prices and availability. Prices listed are per person, cruise only, and based on double occupancy.

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