We begin with the VIP Home Departure Service to London Heathrow Airport or Gatwick and your direct scheduled British Airways or other leading airline flight to Munich. On arrival we transfer to Nuremberg to embark the River Duchess.

Our first port of call is Nuremberg and your included city tour will explore the rally grounds of the Nazi Party, Kaiserburg Castle and the medieval town wall and towers. We then walk to the central market with its beautiful fountain at the centre. The immense Christmas Market here is the perfect way to round off your cruise. This evening the ship hosts the Captain's Welcome Dinner.

A full day in Bamberg and your included walking tour this morning takes in the centuries old tradition of the Nativity Scenes, which Bamberg continues to uphold. Stationed throughout the city are different nativity scenes and you will be able to enjoy the local colour as you walk from scene to scene.

From the charming town of Würzburg your included tour sets off along the Romantic Road passing fairytale castles and pretty villages for a full day visit to Rothenberg. Learn about the history of this wonderful medieval walled town with its Renaissance city hall, timber frame houses and fountains. You will have free time before we return to the ship (lunch not provided).

This morning you will experience one of Germany's best examples of Baroque architecture as you visit the magnificent 18th century Würzburg Residenz. Inside you will admire the sweeping staircase and the wonderful Tiepolo ceiling frescos, and at the end of the tour enjoy a tasting of Franconian wines in the Residenz cellar. You will also see the court, church and magnificent gardens, and later get a chance to explore the Christmas market.

This morning we reach Wertheim where an included walking tour is available. Visit the Pointed Tower, a former jail built in 1170, the Market Square lined with half-timbered houses and the baroque church.

Today enjoy a guided city tour of Frankfurt before exploring the Christmas market.

Today we are in Rüdesheim, arguably the Rhine valley's prettiest and most popular town with its attractive buildings and cobbled streets. Join an included excursion by minitrain to Siegfried's Mechanical Music Museum with its fabulous collection of musical instruments housed in one of the town's 16th century mansions.

Your walking tour this morning winds through the streets of Cologne past quaint squares, churches and inns before reaching the cathedral that dominates the city skyline. Your guide will take you inside the cathedral and explain its fascinating history before allowing you plenty of time to explore the Christmas market outside with a magical tradition with wooden stalls selling handicrafts, ceramics and local fare. A Captain's Farewell Dinner is held onboard this evening before we sail.

We say farewell to the River Duchess and her crew and transfer to Dusseldorf Airport for the return direct scheduled British Airways or other leading airline flight to London Heathrow or Gatwick where a representative will greet you and transport you to your front door.