2022 Budapest > Prague

Explore the Danube Christmas markets

The Christmas markets along the Danube are an incredible sight. Festive market stalls twinkle with fairy lights and are piled high with gingerbread and hand-blown Christmas glass ornaments.

In the heart of Europe’s grand waterways region, immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of the Christmas markets, which have brought festive charm to the banks of the Danube River for centuries. Spend seven nights cruising the majestic Danube from Budapest to Nuremberg then delight in the magic of Prague.

Tour Code:: XPNB
Duration:: 11 days
Departure City:: Budapest
Return City:: Prague

Selected Itinerary

11 Day Itinerary

Day 1 - Welcome to Budapest

Your journey into wonder begins here. Relax and raise your glass to the days ahead at this evening’s welcome reception.

Meals Included: Dinner
Day 2 - Budapest

Freechoice

Make the most of a guided tour including a piano concert, or discover the Jewish history on a guided tour with an expert local guide. Alternatively, if you are feeling more active, hike to Buda Hill or choose to travel to nearby Szentendre. Known for its museums, galleries and artists, you’ll have the opportunity to discover this charming town on a guided city tour.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3 - Vienna

As you cruise the mighty Danube relax in one of the lounges and viewing areas, and enjoy the scenery as your Scenic Space-Ship sails towards the majestic city of Vienna.

Enrich

Breathe in the opulence and luxury of Palais Liechtenstein while enjoying a glass of fine Austrian Sekt. Then be enthralled by an enchanting private Viennese evening concert featuring the timeless music of Strauss and Mozart. Even in elegant Vienna, Palais Liechtenstein is one of the grandest of all venues.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4 - Vienna

Freechoice

Arrive in Vienna this morning, take a guided tour of Schönbrunn Palace. Witness the sheer opulence of the Habsburg Empire and delight in the festive ambience at the market stalls that grace the palace courtyard. Alternatively, visit the Belvedere Museum, one of Europe’s most stunning Baroque landmarks, or discover a different side of Vienna on a guided bicycle tour.

Later, explore the magical Viennese Christmas markets at your leisure. An age-old tradition, the forerunners of the present-day events date back to the Middle Ages when in 1298 Albrecht I granted Vienna’s citizens the privilege of holding a December Market or ‘Krippenmarkt’. Nowadays, over 20 official advent markets sell a vast array of seasonal gifts and mouth-watering treats.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5 - Dürnstein > Melk

Freechoice

Embark on an enjoyable bike ride along the river from Dürnstein to Melk. Alternatively, enjoy a guided tour of Melk’s 18th- century Benedictine abbey, one of the world’s most magnificent baroque buildings. Alternatively, visit a Schnapps producer and sample some of the many flavours on offer, or taste your way through the Wachau Valley delighting in many of the regional delicacies.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6 - Salzburg, Austria or Ceský Krumlov, Czech Republic

Freechoice

Today, choose between a visit to Salzburg or the Czech town of Ceský Krumlov—both designated World Heritage sites. Stroll the storybook streets of Salzburg's Old Town, host to one of the continent’s oldest Christmas markets, set in a picturesque square in front of the Salzburg Cathedral and beneath the city’s iconic medieval castle. Or tour Ceský Krumlov’s historic center, a labyrinth of cobblestoned streets lined with medieval, baroque, and Renaissance houses.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7 - Regensburg

Freechoice

Experience the true wonder of Christmas at the romantic and picturesque markets of Thurn und Taxis Palace. This magical setting will make you feel like you have entered a fairytale with the gently lit lanterns and candles providing a charming atmosphere. Alternatively, enjoy a walking tour of Regensburg.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8 - Nuremberg > Prague

Today travel by coach to Prague, one of the truly magical cities of Europe. Complete your journey with a three night stay at one of our luxurious city central hotels.

Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 9 - Prague

This morning join your knowledgeable local guide on a fascinating walk through the city and view the famous Astronomical Clock. Afterwards, venture across the world-famous Charles Bridge. This incredibly beautiful structure was commissioned in 1357 by Charles IV after the Judith Bridge was destroyed by floods.

Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 10 - Prague

Stroll this magnificent city at your leisure. Situated on the banks of the River Vltava in central Bohemia, the beautiful city of Prague is rich in history and home to some of the world’s most striking architectural wonders. There’s no need to plan ahead – your Tour Director is on hand to take care of everything.

Meals Included: Breakfast
Day 11 - Prague

Your journey concludes today.
This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above.
Please note: Preview itinerary subject to change.

Meals Included: Breakfast