Christmas Markets on the Danube - Cruise Only

Step aboard for your unforgettable journey through Europe’s most enchanting Christmas markets.

Today, explore both the hilly Buda and flat Pest sides of the Danube River. Begin in Buda with a guided tour of the Castle District, be enchanted by the fairytale turrets of Fisherman's Bastion, enjoy panoramic views, and visit the stunning Matthias Church with its colorful mosaic roof. Stroll through the vibrant Christmas Markets, or opt for a more active experience by hiking to Castle Hill. In the afternoon, cross into Pest to admire the grand Hungarian Parliament Building, Heroes Square, and the poignant "Shoes on the Danube Bank" memorial.

Host to the crowning ceremonies of 11 Hungarian kings and queens between 1536 and 1830, Bratislava certainly has earned the title “Coronation City of Kings,” as you discover during your walking tour. You can also have an opportunity to visit Bratislava’s charming Christmas market. Or join a special “Tastes of Slovakia” tour. For a more active adventure, hike up to Bratislava Castle, offering magnificent views of the city. Enjoy a free evening to explore Vienna on your own. 

The “City of Waltzes” offers a treasure trove of gems just waiting to be discovered. Join a tour showcasing its regal splendors, such as the majestic Opera House and the former Imperial Palace of the Habsburgs, before concluding in Vienna’s historic city center. If you prefer a more active adventure, then join a guided bike ride through Vienna. In the afternoon, experience the spectacular festive atmosphere of the Schönbrunn Christmas Markets. at the beautifully decorated Christmas Markets in this magnificent city. In the evening, spend some free time at the beautifully decorated and illuminated Rathaus Square and the Chirstkindlmarkt, Vienna’s largest Christmas Market.

After reaching Weissenkirchen, you have a choice of excursions. Join a walking tour in Durnstein and then taste some of the village’s distinctive wines. Or visit a local boutique to taste Durnstein’s special apricot treats, such as jams and chocolates. Prefer more active adventures? Join a guided bike tour from Weissenkirchen to Melk. For those not biking to Melk, sail through the UNESCO-designated Wachau Valley to Melk, where you can have the opportunity to visit the magnificent Benedictine Abbey.

Linz is known for being the city of Christmas crèches and its ever-popular Linzer torte. While here, you have a choice of three excursions. The first is a morning walking tour through Linz’s old city center and by the Mozart House, where he composed the Linz Symphony in only three days, as well as visit Linz’s Christmas Markets. Or you can go on a guided bike tour through Linz and along the city’s famed “Culture Mile” and the Danube River. Or go on a full-day visit to Salzburg where you can enjoy a walking tour of the UNESCO-designated Old Town, its magnificent cathedral and its breathtaking Christmas Markets. Alternatively, you can visit the charming mountain town of Český Krumlov, a guest favorite located just over the Czech-Austrian border, on a full-day excursion.

During the season of Advent, beautiful Passau dresses in her Bavarian holiday splendor, which you can discover on your walking tour through the city and at its Christmas Market at St. Stephen’s Square—also home to its magnificent cathedral. Go in search of unique crafts, including Bavarian-style houses and glass ornaments. If you prefer a more active adventure, hike to Paulinerkloister Mariahilf or join a guided bike ride along the Danube. Later, sail for Vilshofen, be treated to an exclusive Oktoberfest celebration.

Disembark the ship and bid farewell to Vilshofen as you prepare for your flight home.