New Year's Eve on the Rhine River cruise aboard the MS Serenade 2

Day 1: Switzerland - Cologne

Journey to Cologne, the historic cathedral city on the Rhine, whose roots reach back to Roman times. Your "floating premium hotel" is already waiting for you here. After embarkation and a "Welcome on board", a delicious welcome dinner awaits you as the MS SERENADE 2 glides slowly and elegantly downstream along the Rhine.

(Embarkation from approx. 16:00 / departure 19:00)

Day 2: Arnhem & Nijmegen

In the morning, the MS SERENADE 2 moors in the city of Arnhem. The city, with around 155,000 inhabitants, stands out for its old town with many cafés and bars. It is a delightful place to stroll, wander and admire the houses.

Nijmegen is aglow! From 18 December to 23 January, the city is beautifully decorated with lights and eight impressive light sculptures. Stroll through the city, including along the beautiful snowy owl in the trees at the Ganzenheuvel; press the button to make Rudolph's red nose light up at the Stevenskerk, and don't forget to visit the labyrinth, where the real Nijmegen Emperor Charlemagne looks out over the Waal.

The imposing stag stands on the Waalkade this year, near the Veerpoort steps. The route is crowned by a giant Christmas bauble that you can sit inside to enjoy the lights. Head to Plein '44 and take a seat in the Arrenslee! (Arnhem: 08:00 - 13:00 / Nijmegen: 16:00 - 23:30)

Day 3: Dordrecht & Rotterdam

The small town of Dordrecht captivates with its charm and authenticity. Rotterdam stands in appealing contrast to it. After Amsterdam, it is the second-largest city in the Netherlands and is of great importance for transport thanks to Europe's largest seaport. Rotterdam has a university, several universities of applied sciences, a music conservatoire and an art academy.

It is the leading industrial and commercial city of the Netherlands. Particularly striking is Rotterdam's skyscraper skyline, which has developed over the last 20 years. Use the time for a guided city tour and learn all sorts of interesting facts about the home of the famous Erasmus of Rotterdam. (Dordrecht: 07:00 - 13:00 / Rotterdam: arrival 15:00)

Day 4: Day on the river

Today is devoted entirely to the MS SERENADE 2. While the wintry landscape of the Netherlands drifts leisurely past, you can enjoy the amenities of your floating hotel. How about a visit to the fitness room or the sauna? Or perhaps you would prefer a drink in the bar, possibly with a good book? In the late afternoon / evening, the MS SERENADE 2 reaches Utrecht. (Rotterdam: departure 10:00 / Utrecht: arrival 17:00)

Day 5: Utrecht

Utrecht delights with its historic flair, picturesque canals and lively old town. The impressive Dom Tower, the city's landmark, rises proudly above the winding lanes. Along the unique two-level canal-side quays, cosy cafés and small boutiques invite you to linger. The mix of history, culture and relaxed way of life makes Utrecht an unforgettable stop on your river cruise. (Utrecht: departure 15:00 / Amsterdam: arrival 22:00)

Day 6: Amsterdam

The period around Christmas and the turn of the year in Amsterdam is a special highlight of the year. When we say that Amsterdam in winter resembles a scene from a fairy tale, it is no exaggeration. The Amsterdam Light Festival, which takes place this year between 1 December and 22 January, creates impressive moments with hundreds of lights throughout the city.

During the Festival of Light and Water, the city's canals are showcased with light installations. For the duration of the festival, the sculptures can be seen all over the city centre. They illuminate and transform familiar buildings in magical and surprisingly new ways. Experience the end of the old year and the start of the new one in this picturesque and incomparable city of canals!

Day 7: Amsterdam & Emmerich

Happy New Year - welcome to 2027! In the morning, the MS SERENADE 2 cruises towards Emmerich, where there will be time for a stroll in the afternoon. Or simply enjoy the day on board and make use of the ship's amenities. (Amsterdam: departure 01:00 / Emmerich: 12:00 - 18:30)

Day 8: Cologne - Switzerland

Return to the cathedral city of Cologne, where disembarkation takes place after a hearty breakfast. Journey back to Switzerland.