Price Promise – Launch Savings, book Early for the Best Deal*
Expert-led Shore Excursions Included*
Cruise Overview
Duration 4 nights
Departs 05 Dec 2026
Sails from Cologne, Germany
Ship MS Riviera Resplendence
Flights and transfersYes
Cruise code
2235399
Your Itinerary
Fly from your local airport to Cologne, Germany
Sat 05 Dec 2026
(premium class flights may be available on request)
Cologne, Germany
Sat 05 Dec 2026
Upon arrival, transfer to the port and embark your 5★ luxury river ship
Cruising Rhine Gorge - Rüdesheim, Germany
Sun 06 Dec 2026
Sail through the famous Rhine Gorge on our way to Rüdesheim.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast this morning and relax on board while a kaleidoscope of riverside views drifts by in all their seasonal glory. Wrap up warm and take to the deck for an invigorating breath of frosty air as we pass through the outstandingly beautiful Rhine Gorge, where the river flows a little faster, the vineyard-covered valley sides are steeper and ruined castles sit atop rocky crags.
After lunch on board, we arrive in Rüdesheim. The quirky, crooked houses and tiny streets provide the perfect chocolate-box setting for its Christmas market.
As the evening light fades, amble back on board to enjoy a sumptuous dinner in the ship’s excellent restaurant before delighting in the upbeat sounds of Rhenish folk music and dancing with a live performance on traditional instruments.
★INCLUDED EXCURSION: Guided tour of Rüdesheim and visit to a Christmas market
Cruising Rhine Gorge - Bonn, Germany
Mon 07 Dec 2026
During breakfast the ship effortlessly glides out of port as we commence a spectacular morning’s cruising. One of the cruise highlights will be our return passage through the magnificent Rhine Gorge so have your camera at the ready to capture some of the most stunning river views, as the captain skilfully navigates our passage between the narrow valley sides that tower above.
Enjoy another delicious lunch in the ship’s restaurant as we sail past Koblenz, dramatically situated on the confluence of the rivers Rhine and Moselle, with the impressive Ehrenbreitstein fortress towering above. We’ll soon arrive in Bonn.
This afternoon there’s the opportunity to learn more about this fascinating city, which served as the capital of the West German state from 1949-1990, until the reunification of Germany which restored Berlin as the country’s capital.
You’ll have some free time to wander the seasonal market, centred around the old town; the old town hall’s windows are transformed into a giant Advent calendar and an imposing Christmas tree takes centre stage. Classical music floats on the air, along with the delicious smells of gingerbread and baked apples – simply magical.
With the ship moored here overnight, perhaps step ashore again after dinner to experience the town sparkling under its Christmas lights.
★INCLUDED EXCURSION: Guided tour of Bonn with a visit to the Christmas market
Bonn - Cologne, Germany
Tue 08 Dec 2026
Sail back to Cologne where we learn more about the old town on a guided walk, then you are free to explore the many Christmas markets.
During breakfast, we make our return to Cologne as the ever-changing river scenery drifts silently by. As the towering spires of Cologne’s cathedral come into view on the wintry skyline, we moor in the shadow of this ancient monument once again.
Arriving in Cologne mid‑morning, we meet our local guide for a walking tour of the old town, focusing on the historic quarter surrounding the magnificent cathedral. Afterward, you may like to return to the ship for lunch on board, or choose to stay out a little longer and sample some of the tempting regional specialities from the nearby Christmas market stalls.
After browsing the market and its Aladdin’s cave of festive gifts and foods, return to the ship to raise a festive toast with newfound friends before a final delicious dinner this evening.
INCLUDED EXCURSION: Visit to Cologne and its Christmas markets
Disembark in Cologne, Germany
Wed 09 Dec 2026
The romantic Rhine River flows down from the Swiss Alps and meanders through central and Western Europe until it reaches the North Sea.
Transfer to the airport and fly to your local airport
Wed 09 Dec 2026
Introducing Riviera
Riviera, a leading river cruise operator renowned for combining exceptional quality with outstanding value. With over 40 years of experience, Riviera offers meticulously crafted itineraries that reveal the heart of Europe’s most captivating waterways. Each voyage blends luxurious, five-star ships, elegant dining, and insightful excursions led by expert local guides. What truly sets Riviera apart is their dedication to personal service, transparent pricing with no hidden extras, and a commitment to enriching travel experiences that leave lasting memories. Whether you’re a first-time cruiser or a seasoned traveller, a journey with Riviera promises style, substance, and discovery at every turn.
What's included *
SAVE up to 20%
ROL Cruise Presents Riviera Travel
FOUR NIGHTS All-inclusive river cruising onboard your 5★ Riviera River Ship, including:
INCLUDED all-inclusive drinks throughout your voyage including a choice of house wines, a choice of draught beers, a selection of soft drinks & juices, house spirits and mixers, cocktail of the day & tea and coffee (10am-12am)
INCLUDED shore excursions
INCLUDED Wi-Fi
Expert Riviera Cruise Director & Concierge
All port charges and taxes
Price Promise - Book early confident in the knowledge it will be the lowest price
Money-Back Guarantee with the Happiness Guarantee - if you’re not happy by day two of your holiday, Riviera Travel will bring you home with a full refund
Return Flights from a selected Regional Airport (premium class may be available at a supplement) & overseas transfers
We offer Interest Free Payment Plans, please contact us for more information (please note these are only available for sailings outside the balance due date)
Book today and earn up to £22.98 off your next ROL Cruise booking
For every booking you make with ROL Cruise, your Cruise Miles account will be credited with one Cruise Mile for each pound you spend. You can earn Cruise Miles on all bookings made with ROL Cruise.
Then, once you’ve chosen a cruise, simply let us know how many Cruise Miles you would like to redeem at the time of booking, every Cruise Mile on your account is worth 1p when redeeming. It’s as simple as that!
Cabins & Prices
View prices as:
Your current viewing preference is: Per-Person Pricing
* Prices shown are per person, based on two adults sharing a twin cabin and include all cruise offer discounts and savings.
The (Category 6) Double Cabin on MS Riviera Resplendence provides around 172 sq. ft. of bright, comfortable accommodation, complete with a French balcony for fresh air and riverside views. Inside, you’ll find twin beds that can be configured as a double, individual climate control, a flat-screen TV, tea and coffee-making facilities, a mini fridge, a safe and UK plug sockets with USB charging points. The ensuite bathroom features a walk-in shower, luxury toiletries and complimentary towels, bathrobes and slippers. A writing desk, table and chairs, plus nightly turndown service, add to the cabin’s practicality and relaxed atmosphere.
The (Category 3) Double Cabin on MS Riviera Resplendence offers approximately 172 sq. ft. of well-designed comfort, complete with a French balcony that brings in plenty of natural light and fresh air. Inside, you’ll find twin beds convertible to a double, individual climate control, a flat-screen TV, tea and coffee-making facilities, a mini fridge, a safe and convenient UK plug sockets with USB charging points. The ensuite bathroom features a walk-in shower, luxury toiletries and soft towels, bathrobes and slippers. A writing desk, table and chairs, along with a nightly turndown service, add thoughtful touches that make this cabin a practical and inviting space to relax.
The (Category 5) Double Cabin on MS Riviera Resplendence offers around 172 sq. ft. of comfortable, well-designed space, enhanced by a French balcony that brings in plenty of light and fresh air. It features twin beds that convert to a double, individual climate control, a flat-screen TV, tea and coffee-making facilities, a mini fridge, a safe and convenient UK plug sockets with USB charging points. The modern ensuite bathroom includes a walk-in shower, complimentary luxury toiletries and soft towels, bathrobes and slippers. A writing desk, table and chairs, and nightly turndown service complete this practical and welcoming cabin.
The Grand Balcony Suite on MS Riviera Resplendence is the ship’s most spacious and indulgent accommodation, offering around 344 sq. ft. of well-designed comfort. Located in a premium position, it features a generous indoor seating area with a sofa and writing desk, plus a private balcony furnished with a table and chairs for relaxed river views. Inside, you’ll find twin beds convertible to a double, individual climate control, a mini fridge, a flat-screen TV, tea and coffee-making facilities, and ample charging points. The large ensuite bathroom includes a walk-in shower, luxury toiletries and soft towels, robes and slippers. A nightly turndown service and thoughtful touches such as a safe, telephone and hairdryer complete a suite designed for an effortlessly comfortable stay.
The Superior Suite (Category 2) on MS Riviera Resplendence offers around 258 sq. ft. of bright, comfortable living space, complete with a separate seating area featuring a sofa, table and writing desk. Its French balcony brings in plenty of natural light and lets you enjoy fresh air and passing scenery. The suite includes twin beds convertible to a double, individual climate control, a mini fridge, flat-screen TV, tea and coffee-making facilities, and convenient UK plug sockets with USB charging points. The spacious bathroom has a walk-in shower, luxury toiletries, and soft towels, robes and slippers. Added touches such as a safe, telephone, hairdryer and nightly turndown service ensure a relaxed and well-appointed stay.
The (Category 4) Superior Suite on MS Riviera Resplendence offers around 258 sq. ft. of bright, relaxing space, complete with a French balcony for fresh air and river views. Inside, twin beds convert to a comfortable double, complemented by individual climate control, a flat-screen TV, tea and coffee-making facilities, a mini fridge, a safe and UK plug sockets with USB charging points. The spacious ensuite bathroom features a walk-in shower, luxury toiletries and soft towels, bathrobes and slippers. A separate seating area with a sofa, table and chair, along with a writing desk and nightly turndown service, adds to the suite’s sense of comfort and convenience.
Launched in 2025, MS Riviera Resplendence represents the next generation of river cruising for Riviera Travel. Combining contemporary design with classic elegance, she carries just 178 guests in beautifully appointed surroundings that balance sophistication with warmth. Every detail, from her stylish public spaces and panoramic lounges to her luxurious all-suite accommodations, has been carefully crafted to enhance the journey, creating an atmosphere of relaxed indulgence. Designed to glide gracefully along Europe’s most scenic waterways, MS Riviera Resplendence offers an experience defined by fine dining, attentive service and unforgettable views.
What’s onboard: 178 guests, 89 guest suites, one entertainment venue, three complimentary restaurants, one bar and lounge, three relaxation and fitness venues, and four essential venues
Our ABTA membership & ATOL licence protects all our packages or tailor-made holidays booked through ROL Cruise, so you can book with confidence knowing you are fully protected
Award-winning Cruise Miles® loyalty programme; with over 400,000 UK members
Winners of more than 50 Cruise Awards over the last 5 years
The UK's No.1 Independent Cruise Specialist; delivering impartial advice
Customer satisfaction at 98% and a Feefo score of 4.9/5.
Expert staff with over 1,000 years of combined travel expertise offering 5★ service
Flexible Payment Options Available
Celebrating 30 years as a cruise-only specialist
Insurance Guidance - ROL Cruise will assist you with obtaining insurance cover, including Covid-cover.
Key strategic partner with the major cruise lines
Ambassadors representing us and guiding our customers onboard and at key locations on their holidays
Booking conditions of Riviera Tours Limited trading as Riviera Travel and Reader Offers Limited Agency terms of business apply. Fares are per person based on two adults sharing, except solos, may increase or be withdrawn at any time, offer applies to new bookings only. Ports may require a tender. Tours are subject to change and may incur a supplement, are non-transferable and may not be suitable for guests with mobility restrictions. Star ratings are ROL Cruise classified. The Price Promise applies to the core elements of the Holiday you have booked with Riviera (including tour or cruise, flights and transfers if booked as a package, or tour/cruise only). Regional flights may be available on request, will be at a further supplement and may require an additional overnight stay at an extra cost and may be indirect. Flights are subject to schedule changes and may be based on indirect services with flights arriving same day or overnight. Flights will be confirmed closer to departure which may affect your overall holiday duration and an additional overnight hotel stay may be required. Drinks are subject to T&Cs. All meals are included on the cruise. Wi-Fi cannot be guaranteed. Cruise Miles T&Cs apply. E&OE.
