Start this timeless Europe river cruise holiday with two nights in vibrant Budapest, Hungary, sail along the Danube River with exciting stops and panoramic views in Austria and Germany, and end with two nights in Prague, capital of the Czech Republic. At this time of year, the towns and cities are festively lit and decorated, each in its own particular style and taste. Christmas markets abound, and the strains of carols and aroma of gingerbread fill the air.
In lively Budapest, enjoy an introduction to the city by a local expert who shows you the must-see sights, and take this first chance to explore a Christmas market. Leave Budapest, and sail up the Danube River to Vienna, Austria. Here, Christmas markets are scattered around the city, with the biggest located in front of the city hall. Join a traditional city sightseeing or a guided culinary walk through the Christmas market to taste some of the local traditional specialties. Glide through the winter wonderland of the Wachau Valley, and in Melk visit Austria’s majestic Benedictine Abbey. You’ll love a guided walk through Passau, with its narrow streets and beautiful patrician houses, and the Christkindlmarkt set against the stunning backdrop of St. Stephen’s Cathedral.
Sail further up the Danube River through panoramic views, and you’ll come to the medieval walls of Regensburg, the only German city not bombed during WWII. Your last stop along the Danube River is thou-sand-year-old Nuremberg, famous for one of the oldest Christmas market in Germany. After guided city sight-seeing, be sure to explore the many stalls and try some spicy gingerbread and Glühwein! Disembark and travel to beautiful Prague, Czech Republic. See the sights with a Local Guide, and then explore on your own—get your last-minute gifts at the Christmas market, and don’t miss the beautifully-decorated tree in Old Town! The perfect ending to a memorable river cruise holiday!
