Scenic Ruby, 11 Night Rhine Christmas Markets with Bruges ex Basel to Brussels ex Basel, Switzerland to Brussels (Brugge), Belgium

Day 1
Welcome to Basel (Huningue) where the crew of your ultra-luxury Scenic Space-Ship will warmly greet you. Raise your glass to the marvelous cruise ahead of you at this evening’s welcome reception.

Scenic transfers are only available for flights arriving in Basel prior to 03:00 PM.Scenic transfers are only available for flights arriving in Zurich prior to 1.00 PM. Please contact us if you wish to secure this option.

Day 2
Wake in Basel (Huningue), the cultural capital of Switzerland. With its cobblestone streets, historic buildings and picturesque riverside setting, it’s one of the most charming cities in Europe at any time of year. Over Christmas, it is even more appealing – the beautifully decorated Old Town glows with twinkling lights, while the scent of roasted almonds and mulled wine drifts from the traditional Christmas markets on Barfüsserplatz and Münsterplatz.

Scenic Freechoice: Enjoy local festivities with the following Scenic Freechoice options:Guided tour of Basel with market visit: Step into the festive charm of Basel on a guided walk through the Old Town, where cobbled streets twinkle with fairy lights and historic facades shimmer with seasonal cheer. Discover the majestic Basel Minster, wander past elegant boutiques and galleries, and admire the tree in Münsterplatz. Your tour culminates at the famous Basel Christmas markets – a feast for the senses with handcrafted gifts, gourmet treats and warming mulled wine.Läckerli baking workshop: Immerse yourself in a sweet Basel tradition at a Läckerli baking workshop. Under the guidance of a local baker, you’ll learn the art of crafting these iconic spiced honey cookies, a cherished treat dating back to the 15th century. Experience the rich aromas of cinnamon, cloves, candied peel and almonds as you roll, shape, and decorate your own batch.

Day 3
Arrive in Strasbourg today. Strasbourg is located on the border of France and Germany, making it a unique mixture of both French and German architecture and culture. Over Christmas, the city is home to almost a dozen traditional markets as well as the largest natural Christmas tree in Europe, standing over 30 metres tall in Place Kléber.

Scenic Freechoice: Discover more of the city on one of these excursions:Guided walking tour of Strasbourg: Join your local guide on a walking tour of the city, visiting the cathedral and the charming Petit France district. After your guided tour, you have free time to explore the magical markets. Strasbourg has some of the largest and most popular Christmas markets in Europe with the town squares and pedestrian zones coming alive with festive cheer.Alsace Christmas beer – brewery visit: The cherished tradition of Christmas beer or Biere de Noel dates back to the Middle Ages and blends local brewing heritage with festive spirit. Learn about this regional tradition in the Alsace, considered to be Frances most prominent beer-producing region, during a tasting.

Day 4
You will arrive in Mannheim early this morning. Known as a ‘chessboard city’ for its methodical grid of streets, it is also the home of some of the world’s most brilliant engineering minds, including Carl Benz, founder of Mercedes-Benz.

Scenic Freechoice: Today you can choose from a selection of Scenic Freechoice on offer:Orientation tour of Heidelberg with free time: From Mannheim, you will transfer by coach to Heidelberg. Enjoy a brief walking tour of Heidelberg, including the old town, and then enjoy ample free time to explore on your own. The town is particularly charming at Christmas, with elaborate decorations, a traditional market, ice skating rink and plenty of festive treats to try.Historical tour of Heidelberg: As well as a guided tour of Heidelberg, visit Heidelberg Castle, one of the most important Renaissance structures north of the Alps. Explore the courtyard, the balcony that offers an incredible view over the Old Town and view the great Heidelberg Tun, the world’s largest wine barrel located in the castle’s cellar.

Scenic Private classical concert at Bruchsal Palace: Enjoy a private evening concert at Bruchsal Palace. Be greeted at the Palace with a welcome drink before witnessing the grandeur of the theatre room and taking in a fabulous classical concert. Your memorable performance will feature accomplished musicians and a soloist.

Day 5
This morning you’ll arrive in Rüdesheim, a quaint town surrounded by steep vineyards that have been cultivating wine for a staggering two millennia.Take a mini-train from the pier to Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum, where some 350 musical instruments from the 18th and 19th century play themselves for your enjoyment. You will have time to wander through this beautiful town before returning to your Scenic Space-Ship.

Day 6
This morning, your Scenic Space-Ship will cruise the Rhine Gorge, one of the most picturesque regions on this journey. The stunning 65-kilometre stretch of river is punctuated with a constellation of some 40 hilltop castles and fortresses that span a period of 1,000 years. Look out for the Lorelei statue, dedicated to the tragic legend of a beautiful maiden. Later, arrive in Cologne, known for its laidback lifestyle, auto industry and the largest Christmas tree in the Rhineland.Take the time to discover Cologne on a walking tour. Visit the city’s centrepiece and icon, Cologne Cathedral, and its magnificent Christmas markets, where local vendors sell delicious treats and decorations.Your Scenic Space-Ship will depart after dinner, allowing you plenty of time to be immersed in the tastes and scents of Christmas.

Day 7
Early this morning you’ll arrive in Düsseldorf. The city comes alive during the Christmas season with lively markets, festive music and the scent of mulled wine sweetening the air. The Old Town is brimming with festive revelers, and the famed Konigsallee is lined with traditional market stalls.Enjoy a walking tour of Düsseldorf with a local guide. Discover traditions of the festive season before free time to explore the city’s Christmas markets.

Day 8
Seamlessly transfer by coach from your Scenic Space-Ship to the Belgian city of Bruges, where your European journey of discovery continues. Over the next two days, enjoy the city’s vibrant atmosphere, well-preserved medieval architecture, world-renowned beer and exquisite chocolatiers. Upon arrival, join a local guide for an immersive walking tour of the city. Meander through cobbled laneways to charming town squares, see sights such as the Belfry of Bruges, the medieval bell tower and learn about the fascinating history of this ancient town.Later, check into your wonderfully located luxury hotel.

Day 9
Spend another day uncovering the charms of Bruges.

Scenic Freechoice: Immerse yourself in Bruges with Scenic Freechoice activities:Canal Cruise: Delight on a cruise through the canals of Bruges and see the sights of the city from a different angle. Admire medieval architecture at its best as you gently cruise under bridges and past the idyllic swans that grace these canals.Beer & chocolate tasting: Bruges is famous for many things, beer and chocolate chief among them. Join a local guide and gain an understanding of the city’s storied history in crafting these delicacies.

Spend the afternoon at your leisure. If you’re feeling active, climb the 366 steps of the Belfry Tower for breathtaking city views or indulge in the irresistible flavours of Belgian waffles at a nearby eatery.Tonight, join your fellow travelers for an included dinner at a local restaurant featuring delicious Flemish cuisine.

Day 10
After a delicious breakfast at your hotel, transfer to Brussels. The capital of Belgium and the administrative centre of the European Union, Brussels is a vibrant mix of history and cultures with world-class museums, lively outdoor markets and an ever-evolving dining scene. Though it’s known as a bureaucratic hub, it also has its own quirky character.Upon arrival, join a guided walking tour of the city. Wander Brussels’ elegant boulevards and grand squares, including the magnificent Grand Place, a World Heritage site. Admire ornate guildhalls, Art Nouveau facades, and chic boutiques, while your expert guide reveals stories of royal heritage, diplomacy and indulgent Belgian delights, from the finest chocolate to its legendary beer.

Day 11
After breakfast, farewell beautiful Belgium. You’ll transfer via coach to Brussels Airport for the journey home, taking with you a lifetime of wonderful memories.

This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions.

Transfers are only available for flights departing out of Brussels after 12:00 PM.

Please note: Preview itinerary subject to change.

Enjoy the ultimate European river cruise experience on board a luxury Scenic Space-Ship.

Scenic recently upgraded all our ships sailing the Rhine, Danube and Moselle to meet the same unrivaled standards set by our newer ships.

The upgrades include luxury suites boasting large private balconies fitted with Scenic Sun-Lounges, 32 inch Samsung HD TVs linked to Mac mini computers and complimentary internet access enhanced by an upgraded Wi-Fi system.

The two new spectacular dining areas, River Café and Table la Rive, are welcome additions, and all public areas feature new artwork, carpet, soft furnishings and designer furniture. Even the bar in the new Panorama Lounge of each ship has been upgraded and is made from sophisticated Port Laurent marble.

The Scenic Story Established in 1986, for 40 years Scenic have been taking their guests to the most fascinating destinations in over 100 countries and every continent.

Uniquely, Scenic Group is now the only cruise company to design, build and operate its own ships through its in-house shipbuilding division, MKM Yachts. This fully integrated model ensures exceptional quality and a consistently elevated guest experience.

Scenic Luxury Cruises & Tours sets the benchmark in truly all-inclusive, ultra-luxury travel. The Scenic Discovery Yachts including Scenic Eclipse and Scenic Eclipse II, with Scenic Ikon set to launch in 2028, offer unrivalled exploration across all seven continents, visiting more than 100 countries and 600 ports. Scenic’s river fleet is also expanding, growing from 13 to 16 ships with new additions planned for 2027 and 2028 in Europe, the Mekong and India, further strengthening their leadership in all-inclusive river cruising. Their handcrafted land journeys and extensions compliment the cruise experience, with immersive, seamlessly curated experiences around the world.

Cherish the Planet Scenic’s Cherish the Planet initiative is more than sustainability. It’s a commitment to creating positive change, from sustainability practices to rich community partnerships. They aim to leave as small a footprint as possible.

Award-Winning They are consistently recognised as the leading luxury cruise line and tour operator by respected consumer publications and industry groups. Scenic Eclipse was also named the Best Cruise Ship for Dining, Asia’s Best River Cruise Ship and Europe’s Best River Cruise Line at the inaugural World Cruise Awards in 2022.

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Scenic Ruby - Jewel Deck

Scenic Ruby - Sapphire Deck

Scenic Ruby - Diamond Deck

Scenic Ruby - Sun Deck

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Cat RA - Royal Balcony Suite

These Suites on the Diamond Deck are the ultimate in luxury with more space (300-315ft²), impeccable service, thoughtful touches, an outdoor balcony, lounge area and an oversized bathroom.

RS - Royal Panorama Suite

At 325ft², this suite is the largest on the ship. At the rear of the Diamond Deck, enjoy panoramic views of the breathtaking passing scenery through floor to ceiling windows across two walls of the cabin.

Cat BJ - Junior Balcony Suite

These spacious Suites (250ft²), located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks, have a private full-length balcony and elegant en-suite bathrooms featuring a large vanity basin, bathtub with shower above.

RO - Royal Owner's Suite

One bedroom suite including Scenic Sun Lounge – 48m2/520ft2. These Suites on the Diamond Deck are the ultimate in luxury with more space (48m2/520ft2), impeccable service, thoughtful touches, an outdoor balcony, lounge area and an oversized bathroom.

Cat R - Royal Balcony Suite

These Suites on the Diamond Deck are the ultimate in luxury with more space (300-315ft²), impeccable service, thoughtful touches, an outdoor balcony, lounge area and an oversized bathroom.

Cat RJ - Junior Balcony Suite

These spacious Suites (250ft²), located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks, have a private full-length balcony and elegant en-suite bathrooms featuring a large vanity basin, bathtub with shower above.

Cat P - Balcony Suite

Including Scenic ‘Sun Lounge’ – 19m2/205ft2. Located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks they feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive ‘Sun Lounge’ system and are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe’s rivers.

Cat A - Balcony Suite

Including Scenic ‘Sun Lounge’ – 19m2/205ft2. Located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks they feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive ‘Sun Lounge’ system and are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe’s rivers.

Cat B - Balcony Suite

Including Scenic ‘Sun Lounge’ – 19m2/205ft2. Located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks they feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive ‘Sun Lounge’ system and are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe’s rivers.

Cat BS - Single Balcony Suite

Cat C - Balcony Suite

Including Scenic ‘Sun Lounge’ – 19m2/205ft2. Located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks they feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive ‘Sun Lounge’ system and are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe’s rivers.

Cat E - Standard Suite

15m2/160ft2. Staterooms are located on the Jewel Deck with large picture windows to ensure a great view. They have a spacious design and clever layout alongside all the usual luxurious amenities and furnishings.

Cat BA - Balcony Suite

Including Scenic ‘Sun Lounge’ – 19m2/205ft2. Located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks they feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive ‘Sun Lounge’ system and are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe’s rivers.

Cat BB - Balcony Suite

Including Scenic ‘Sun Lounge’ – 19m2/205ft2. Located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks they feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive ‘Sun Lounge’ system and are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe’s rivers.

Cat PA - Balcony Suite

Including Scenic ‘Sun Lounge’ – 19m2/205ft2. Located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks they feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive ‘Sun Lounge’ system and are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe’s rivers.

Cat PP - Balcony Suite

Including Scenic ‘Sun Lounge’ – 19m2/205ft2. Located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks they feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive ‘Sun Lounge’ system and are larger than the standard river cruise cabins on Europe’s rivers.

Cat D - Standard Suite

15m2/160ft2. Staterooms are located on the Jewel Deck with large picture windows to ensure a great view. They have a spacious design and clever layout alongside all the usual luxurious amenities and furnishings.