This 7-day All-inclusive River Cruise Stops at Iconic Christmas Markets in Germany — But You Have to Act Fast

Yes, we're already ready for the holidays, too.

Influencer content isn’t always the most relatable. Yeah, splashy images of massive breakfasts floating in a pool in some far-off beach destination sure do look nice on the ‘gram, but often, the reality just doesn’t line up, making it hard to envision yourself taking the same journey. But not with Helene In Between. She makes travel look as approachable as it gets — and is now inviting you all to travel alongside her too.

In January, Helene Sula, the brains behind the wildly popular blog and Instagram account @HeleneInBetween, announced she’s hosting a river cruise later this year to show off all her favorite European Christmas markets.

“I can barely contain my excitement,” Sula wrote on her cruise’s announcement page. “Come explore the magic of the Christmas Markets in Europe with the Christmas Market queen and king, Helene and Michael Sula.”

According to Sula’s page, every destination was hand-selected, along with the excursions offered and the very ship the trip takes place on. "Specifically with our cruise, we wanted it all-inclusive: all food, drinks (even top-shelf alcohol), transportation, excursions, so that they can truly relax and enjoy," Sula told Travel + Leisure.

The seven-day journey begins in Cologne, Germany, which Sula noted is one of her “favorite” market destinations. She also chose it thanks to its proximity to Frankfurt Airport (FRA), allowing all her American followers the chance to hop on a direct flight.

From Cologne, the ship continues down the Rhine River to Koblenz, where guests will have the chance to disembark, explore the small village, and visit the famed Arenfels Castle.

On day three, the ship will dock in Rüdesheim, where guests can head out on an optional excursion to a local coffee house to try Rudeseheimer coffee and then to a local winery.

Day four is an exciting one, particularly for Sula, as the ship will dock in Heidelberg, where she and Michael lived during their time in Europe. (It's also where her blog began.) Here, guests can disembark to explore the town, the nearby castles, and, of course, the markets.

"We picked it because it's so idyllic: a castle looking over a river, flanked by pristine 16th-century buildings," said Sula. "But the Christmas market is so easy. It takes place along the main street, nearly a one-mile-long pedestrian-only street, with hundreds of hand-carved stalls selling hot mulled wine, succulent sausages, handmade ornaments, and more. It's delightful."

Day five continues to Strasbourg and a visit to the Black Forest, followed by a day in Mainz, before the journey ends on day seven back in Cologne. 

As for the ship, Sula chose a ship by Nicko Cruises, which is large enough for just 170 guests, making for an ultra-intimate experience. Guests can choose between a State Room (starting at $3,399 per person) or a larger Panorama Room (starting at $3,899 per person). Guests can mix and mingle in the common spaces, including the upper deck’s lounge and bar, the informal or formal dining spaces, or the ship’s onboard spa.

"Each market in Europe offers its own spin on the traditions whether in what they offer to eat, drink, music, decor, or what they sell," said Sula. "It's truly an incredible atmosphere and I just want to spread the love."

As mentioned above, space is limited, so if you want to sail with Sula, you better act fast. Learn more about the cruise at learn.heleneinbetween.com.

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