The enchanting Christmas markets along the Danube come alive from late November through December. This period offers a magical experience as towns and cities along the river are festooned with festive decorations, lights, and the spirit of the holiday season.

Experience the festive spirit and cultural richness of Europe’s Christmas markets along the iconic Danube by indulging in unique experiences like:

• Magical Christmas Market in Prague, where you’ll stroll through the charming Old Town Square, savoring mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, and traditional Czech treats while browsing handcrafted gifts and holiday decorations beneath the Astronomical Clock.

• Candlelit evening cruise in Vienna along the Danube, sipping hot mulled wine as you take in the breathtaking view of Vienna’s illuminated skyline and iconic landmarks.

• Private tour of Nuremberg’s world-famous Christkindlesmarkt, learning about centuries-old German Christmas customs while discovering unique holiday treasures and indulging in traditional German festive fare.

• Hands-on baking class in Salzburg, where you’ll learn to create iconic Austrian holiday pastries like Linzer cookies and Stollen, bringing a taste of the holidays back home with you.

• Traditional sausage tasting at Wurstkuchl in Regensburg, Germany’s oldest sausage kitchen, offering a historic dining experience by the Danube, complete with hand-grilled sausages, sauerkraut, and mustard.

• Exclusive visit to Budapest’s Christmas markets, where you can experience Hungary’s festive traditions, sample chimney cakes, and browse beautiful handmade gifts while surrounded by the city’s stunning winter ambiance.

Stay a little longer and immerse yourself in the festive wonders of Europe with pre- and post-cruise stays along the enchanting Danube.

Extend your holiday journey beyond the markets and embrace the magic of ancient cities dressed in twinkling lights. Before your river adventure begins, explore cobblestone streets, savor local holiday traditions, and uncover hidden gems in Europe’s most charming winter destinations. And when the cruise ends, don’t rush away - take time to bask in the warmth of local culture, cuisine, and picturesque winter landscapes, making this holiday escape one to cherish forever.

• Day 1: Embarkation in Budapest
  Begin your holiday voyage in the vibrant city of Budapest. Board your luxurious river cruise ship and settle into your cozy cabin. The journey kicks off with a special embarkation dinner featuring Hungarian holiday specialties, allowing you to savor the rich flavors of local cuisine while enjoying the company of fellow travelers.

• Day 2: Explore Budapest
  Start your morning with a guided tour of Budapest's historical Castle District, where cobblestone streets and baroque buildings tell tales of the past. Afterward, dive into the festive spirit at Budapest's Christmas markets. Browse through beautifully decorated stalls offering traditional crafts, gifts, and tasty treats, all set against the backdrop of the city’s stunning architecture.

• Day 3: Magical Evening in Vienna
  Arrive in the Imperial city of Vienna. Your evening begins with a private Danube cruise, offering spectacular views of Vienna’s illuminated skyline. Cap off the night with a visit to the Schönbrunn Palace Christmas Market, where the grandeur of the palace provides a breathtaking setting for one of the city’s most elegant holiday markets.

• Day 4: Vienna’s Christmas Markets
  Spend a full day immersing yourself in the magic of Vienna's Christmas markets. Highlights include the Rathausplatz Christkindlmarkt, renowned for its giant Christmas tree and unique gifts. Each market buzzes with festive activities, traditional foods, and the heartwarming sounds of holiday music.

• Day 5: Melk Abbey and Crafts on the Cruise
  Travel to Melk to tour the majestic Melk Abbey, an architectural marvel perched atop a rocky outcrop overlooking the Danube. In the afternoon, return to the cruise for a delightful holiday crafting workshop, where you can create your own souvenirs and decorations as you sail towards Passau.

• Day 6: Passau’s Charm and Christmas Market
  Discover the enchanting town of Passau, where its famous Christmas Market awaits. Enjoy a morning exploring the stalls filled with artisan gifts and seasonal goodies. In the afternoon, relax on the cruise as you continue your journey to Nuremberg, filled with anticipation for the days ahead.

• Day 7: Nuremberg’s Festive Finale
  Take a guided tour of Nuremberg, focusing particularly on the historic Christkindlesmarkt, one of the oldest and most famous Christmas markets in the world. In the afternoon, engage in a baking class to learn how to make traditional German holiday treats. The day concludes with a festive farewell dinner on board, celebrating the wonderful experiences shared.

• Day 8: Farewell or Extend Your Stay
  Disembark in Nuremberg after a memorable week exploring the heart of Europe’s Christmas markets. You may choose to depart for home or extend your stay to Prague.  You won’t regret it!