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Eight magical days on the Danube: festive lights, imperial cities, and Christmas magic

Main features
Boat type: river boat
Number of cabins: 95
Maximum capacity: 190 travelers
Crew members: 53

Cabins

Explorer suite
Capacity: 2 Berths maximum
The suite, measuring approximately 41 square meters including a private veranda, is elegant and spacious and offers a separate living room with a private balcony and a 270-degree panoramic view of the river, as well as a French balcony in the bedroom. It features a queen-size bed that can be converted into twin beds, premium linens and pillows, and a bathroom with a glass-enclosed shower, heated floor, and high-end toiletries. The sitting area includes a... more+ TV, a minibar that is restocked daily, a coffee machine, and a fruit basket. Services include Wi-Fi, individual air conditioning, twice-daily housekeeping, cabin steward, breakfast in your room, laundry, and shoe shine. Convenient amenities include a safe, refrigerator, 110/220 V outlets, USB ports, binoculars, and under-bed storage. The experience begins with a champagne welcome and private transfer upon arrival. 
Veranda suite
Capacity: 2 Berths maximum
The Veranda Suite (AA), with an area of approximately 25.5 m² including a private veranda, is bright and comfortable, with a separate living room opening onto a full-size veranda and a French balcony in the bedroom. It features a queen-size bed that can be converted into twin beds, premium linens and pillows, and a bathroom with a glass-enclosed shower, heated floor, and premium toiletries. The sitting area includes a TV, a minibar that is restocked... more+ daily, and a fruit basket. Services include Wi-Fi, individual air conditioning, twice-daily housekeeping, cabin steward, laundry, and shoe shine. Convenient amenities include a safe, refrigerator, 110/220V outlets, USB ports, binoculars, and under-bed storage. The experience begins with a champagne welcome. 
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NB : The pictures, information, and visuals presented are not contractually binding. The itinerary and program indicated may be modified without notice for technical reasons (captain's decision).

Itinerary

Itinerary
Budapest
Come aboard and settle into your cabin. The beauty of the riverbanks and a vibrant cultural scene... more+ combine in Budapest to create one of Europe's most rewarding cities. The charming Hungarian capital stretches along the banks of the Danube, with traditional Buda perched on a hill and modern Pest below. By day, stunning Art Nouveau buildings, imposing castles, and majestic palaces provide the perfect backdrop for inspiring walks and long thermal baths. By night, the twinkling lights of the Parliament dance on the waters of the Danube, with the Chain Bridge uniting it all as a spectacular focal point. 
Included activities: Christmas market at Saint-Étienne Basilica, more+
Accommodation: Night on board
Breakfast
Lunch
Diner
Budapest The Danube Bend
The Christmas season adds a touch of magic to Budapest's already romantic charm. Nestled in the... more+ heart of Pest, Vörösmarty Square hosts the city's largest Christmas market. The enchanting aromas of national specialties fill the air as artisans display traditional and contemporary creations. At the cozy market at St. Stephen's Basilica, mulled wine warms visitors while light shows illuminate the church's facade after dark. Across the Danube in Buda, old-world charm blends with festivities at Fo Square, where seasonal events and an outdoor ice rink enliven the evenings.

Panoramic cruise: the Danube Bend Soak up the natural beauty of the legendary "Blue Danube" as you cruise through the Danube Bend, considered one of the most beautiful sections of the river. As you cruise this 64-kilometer stretch through northern Hungary, you'll discover peaceful agricultural landscapes and an ancient castle that once served as a hunting ground for members of the royal family and visiting dignitaries. Between the Börzsöny and Pilis mountain ranges, marvel at the steep hills lined with bucolic forests. You will also admire the majestic domes of churches overlooking the river from charming villages and historic towns. 
Included activities: Panoramic Budapest, more+
Accommodation: Night on board
Breakfast
Lunch
Diner
The Danube Bend Vienne
The holiday season transforms Vienna's beautiful squares into charming Christmas markets. Festive... more+ lights illuminate the old town. The Schönbrunn market, located in front of the Habsburgs' baroque summer palace, and the Freyung market, nestled in the city center, are ideal destinations for finding unique handmade decorations. Seasonal music and choral singing enliven the Christmas festivities on Am Hof Square, while the market on Belvedere Square combines excellent shopping opportunities with views of the majestic palace and adjacent lake, creating a magical atmosphere. 
Included activities: Panoramic Vienna and Christmas Market, Vienna's sights up close, more+
Optional services: Jewels of Vienna's Ringstrasse, The festive S... more+
Accommodation: Night on board
Breakfast
Lunch
Diner
Vienne
Nicknamed the "City of Waltzes," Vienna, the capital of Austria, is the European center of... more+ classical music. Strauss and Mozart composed many of their finest works here. Vienna's musical history is matched only by the elegant and graceful architecture that lines the Ringstrasse, the wide boulevard that encircles the city center. From the Hofburg Palace to the Vienna State Opera, the Baroque, Neo-Renaissance, Gothic-Romanesque and other splendid styles of buildings, with their majestic facades, are breathtaking. Vienna also has a more intimate side: pleasant walks through green parks and its famous Viennese cafés will enhance your stay with coffee and delicious Sachertorte. 
Optional services: Picturesque Bratislava at Christmas, Behind the scenes with the Lipizzaner stallions, more+
Accommodation: Night on board
Breakfast
Lunch
Diner
Vienne Krems
A small university town located at the eastern end of the Wachau Valley on the Danube, Krems is... more+ surrounded by terraced vineyards. At its peak in the 12th century, Krems was even more important than Vienna for its trade in iron, grain, salt, and wine. As for the latter, the town played an important and recognized role in the popularity of Wachau wine culture; the southern slopes of the valley, bathed in sunshine all day long, produce some of the best Riesling and Veltliner in the world. The town's cobbled streets, taverns, wine bars, and cafés have a timeless charm.

Panoramic cruise: Wachau Valley Cruise through a picturesque landscape of hillside vineyards, charming towns, and castle ruins in Austria's Wachau Valley, renowned as arguably the most scenic stretch of the Danube. Travel 29 kilometers through this vast UNESCO World Heritage Site, where the river flows through idyllic hamlets. Admire the hibernating wine villages, a legacy of winemakers dating back to Celtic and Roman times, and reminiscent of the more than 30 monasteries that served as vineyards during the Renaissance. 
Included activities: Göttweig Abbey at Christmas, more+
Accommodation: Night on board
Breakfast
Lunch
Diner
Krems Passau
Surrounding the magnificent Saint-Étienne Cathedral, home to Europe's largest organ, the romantic... more+ stalls of the Christkindlmarkt are truly enchanting. An assortment of handcrafted items, from delicacies to decorations, offers a multitude of opportunities to take home unique gifts created by local artisans. During the holiday season, the cathedral regularly hosts Christmas concerts, with choir songs echoing through the courtyard and the city's narrow streets. 
Included activities: Christmas traditions in Passau, more+
Optional services: Salzburg at Christmas, Festive Bavarian Beer... more+
Accommodation: Night on board
Breakfast
Lunch
Diner
Passau Ratisbonne
Regensburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, transforms itself during the holiday season, with its... more+ medieval streets decked out in festive cheer. Narrow passageways open onto hidden courtyards lined with stalls selling handicrafts such as dolls, pottery, and silk paintings. The air is filled with the scent of homemade gingerbread, cinnamon, and mulled wine. The world-famous boys' choir, the Regensburger Domspatzen, was founded in 975 in the city's cathedral and travels the world performing to enthusiastic international audiences. 
Included activities: Walking tour of Regensburg and organ concert, Historic Regensburg and Jewish heritage, more+
Accommodation: Night on board
Breakfast
Lunch
Diner
Ratisbonne
Make the most of the end of your trip to share your final memories with your travel companions, or... more+ give in to the temptation to see even more by joining one of our extensions. 
Breakfast
Lunch
Diner

included

The price includes
A free shore excursion in each port of call
Wi-Fi
Specialty coffees, teas and bottled water 24 hours a day
Taxes and port charges
Enrichment lectures & destination performances
Activities included in the program
Meals included in the program
The price does not include
Flights and taxes
Transfers
Possible fuel price increases
Activities not included in the program
Meals not included in the program
Tips for guides and/or crew
Filovent cancellation cover more+
Filovent comprehensive cover more+
Additional information
Itinerary and shore excursions are subject to change and may vary according to departure
Language spoken on board: English
Guide language: English
Optional services
Flights not included in the programme are available on request
Activities and excursions upon request more+

Activities

Christmas market at Saint-Étienne Basilica
Admire the sparkling lights of Budapest during the Christmas season and savor traditional Hungarian specialties. Meet your guide and take a short drive to the illuminated St. Stephen's Basilica, the city's magnificent neoclassical cathedral and one of the... more+ largest churches in Hungary. Upon arrival, enjoy some free time to explore the market at your leisure. This Advent market features a magnificent 18-meter Christmas tree, with skaters twirling on the ice below and surrounding stalls offering delicious specialties. Indulge in a tasty goulash (traditionally spiced with paprika) or a delicious langos (a fried flatbread that can be served with various toppings). For a little treat, savor kurtosh , also known as “Hungarian chimney cake.” This soft doughnut is a favorite among Hungarians. After your visit, you will be taken back to your waiting boat.

The walking portions can be long and somewhat difficult, with occasional climbs, stairs, and slopes. The total walking or standing time generally ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours. 
included
Panoramic Budapest
Discover one of Europe's greatest cultural capitals and its iconic landmarks. Over the past few decades, Budapest has reemerged as one of the continent's most iconic cities, divided by the Danube and connected by the graceful Chain Bridge. Meet your guide for... more+ a panoramic tour, starting with modern Pest. Along the elegant Andrássy Avenue, admire the National Opera House. Pass by Heroes' Square, a vast square adorned with monuments and statues commemorating the Magyar state. Across the river, explore the more traditional side of Buda. Visit the castle district with its imposing hilltop complex, the turreted Fisherman's Bastion, and Matthias Church. From the top of Buda Hill, admire the view of the famous Chain Bridge. Then enjoy some free time to explore the charming Buda Castle district at your leisure before returning to your ship.

The walking portions can be long and somewhat difficult, with occasional climbs, stairs, and slopes. The total walking or standing time generally ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours. 
included
Panoramic Vienna and Christmas Market
Discover the magnificent architectural gems of Vienna, Austria's elegant capital, on a festive tour. Embark on a combined bus and walking tour focusing on the splendid buildings of the remarkable Ringstrasse, an elegant boulevard built on the site of the old... more+ city walls in the mid-19th century. Step back in time as you admire these elegant public buildings, majestic residences, and imposing palaces. Take a short visit to the Christkindlmarkt at St. Stephen's Cathedral. Then, stroll through the beautiful Christmas market around Maria Theresien Platz. Renowned for its exceptional crafts and unique artistic decorations, this atmospheric market offers plenty of opportunities for shopping and browsing among its many stalls. After a brief orientation tour, you will have free time to explore the city at your leisure or return to your ship.

The walking portions can be long and somewhat challenging, with occasional climbs, stairs, and slopes. The total walking or standing time generally ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours. 
included
Vienna's sights up close
Travel like a local by subway and on foot to discover the city's main sights. Start with a subway ride to Karlsplatz, where you'll pass the magnificent opera house and discover the famous Viennese café, Café Sacher, and Albertinaplatz. This captivating walk... more+ will also take you to the Spanish Riding School, named after the Spanish horses that formed the basis of the Lipizzaner breed, on Josefsplatz. Continue with your guide along Kohlmarkt, home to many luxury boutiques and the famous Demel pastry shop, founded in 1786. Visit the Holocaust Memorial on Judenplatz, then head to one of Vienna's oldest squares, Hoher Markt, where the historic Ankeruhr (Anker Clock) stands. Enjoy some free time on Stephansplatz before returning to the ship by subway.

Physically demanding activities, including long walks, hiking, horseback riding, water sports, and high-altitude activities. Walking activities may involve difficult, unpaved surfaces, numerous stairs, and steep slopes. Total time spent walking or standing may exceed 3 hours. 
included
Göttweig Abbey at Christmas
Discover a Benedictine abbey where monks work and pray on a tour with exclusive access to Göttweig Abbey. Admire the beautiful Wachau Valley and the Danube on a scenic drive before arriving at the abbey, which stands majestically atop a hill. The oldest part... more+ of the monastery, a small chapel in the inner courtyard, dates back to 1072 and is usually closed to visitors. However, Viking guests are invited to enter the chapel and admire the nativity scene, a major work of the monks. Admire the craftsmanship and intricate carvings of the figurines while learning about the history of the abbey. After this enriching experience, you will return to your ship, which will be waiting for you.

The walking portions are generally on easy surfaces with few steps or slopes. The total walking or standing time is usually no more than 1.5 hours. 
included
Christmas traditions in Passau
Stroll through Passau's historic district, watch a demonstration of Advent wreath making, and sample a Christmas treat: gingerbread. Nicknamed “the city of three rivers,” Passau was founded over 2,000 years ago and is one of Bavaria's oldest cities. Your... more+ experienced guide will show you around the beautiful old town and stop to admire its imposing Baroque cathedral. Along the way, admire the twinkling lights and soak up the scents of spicy gingerbread, grilled sausages, and roasted almonds from street vendors. Take a break to learn tips for making the perfect Advent wreath and discover how gingerbread is made at a local bakery. Then enjoy some free time to browse the stalls of local artisans, who offer all kinds of handmade gifts: unique woolens, delicate glass ornaments, and traditional wooden toys. After your visit, you will return to your waiting boat.

The walking portions can be long and somewhat challenging, with occasional climbs, stairs, and slopes. The total walking or standing time generally ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours. 
included
Walking tour of Regensburg and organ concert
Soak up the splendor of one of Germany's hidden gems with this magnificent walking tour of Regensburg. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city is one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Germany, with architectural charm dating back over 2,000 years. Best... more+ explored on foot, take the opportunity to soak up Regensburg's festive atmosphere as you admire its twinkling lights. Admire historic sites preserved from the bombings of World War II, including the medieval stone bridge, the Altes Rathaus (old town hall), and the Gothic-style St. Peter's Cathedral, where you can admire its beautiful stained glass windows. Be charmed by the Christmas market in front of the cathedral and enjoy the atmosphere of an organ concert at the parish church before returning to your ship at your leisure.

The walking portions can be long and somewhat difficult, with occasional climbs, stairs, and slopes. The total walking or standing time generally ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours. 
included
Historic Regensburg and Jewish heritage
Discover Regensburg on a walking tour and learn more about the city's Jewish heritage. This tour covers the same ground as the classic Regensburg walking tour, but includes additional stops at several sites related to Judaism. Meet your guide at the pier and... more+ set off on foot to admire the Roman ruins and numerous monuments dating back to the Middle Ages. Continue your tour by immersing yourself in the city's Jewish heritage, with stops at important monuments. Learn more about its history at Neupfarrplatz, in the former Jewish quarter. Where the synagogue once stood, there is now a remarkable memorial. You will also see the former residence of Oskar Schindler, who saved more than 1,200 Jews, as well as the tombstones of the old town hall and the Stumbling Stones memorial. These small brass plaques on the sidewalk commemorate Jewish residents who died during the Holocaust.

The walking portions can be long and somewhat difficult, with occasional climbs, stairs, and slopes. The total walking or standing time generally ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours. 
included
Jewels of Vienna's Ringstrasse
Admire the elegant architecture of Vienna's famous Ringstrasse and explore two renowned national landmarks. Meet your guide and take the subway to Stephansplatz, where an informative walking tour will take you past the imposing St. Stephen's Cathedral, the... more+ Imperial Crypt, where the Habsburgs are buried, and the shop-lined Kärntner Strasse. Visit the famous Hotel Sacher, where Vienna's famous Sachertorte was created, and pass by the Vienna State Opera, the Albertina Museum, the tree-lined Burggarten, and the Mozart statue. At the famous Museum of Fine Arts, you'll have time to admire its magnificent collection and have lunch. Next, admire the Austrian National Library, whose façade is a magnificent example of Baroque architecture, and browse its vast collection of over 8 million books. Back at St. Stephen's Cathedral, enjoy some free time, then return to your ship by subway.

The walking portions can be long and somewhat difficult, with occasional climbs, stairs, and slopes. The total walking or standing time generally varies from 1.5 to 3 hours.

Please note: on Mondays, the Museum of Fine Arts may be closed. In this case, you will visit the Leopold Museum instead. 
Not included
The festive Schönbrunn Palace
Visit the magnificent residence of the Habsburg dynasty and immerse yourself in its grand traditional festivities. In 1569, Emperor Maximilian II of the Holy Roman Empire built the original hunting lodge here and named it Schönbrunn, meaning “beautiful... more+ spring.” In 1775, Empress Maria Theresa, the only female ruler of the Habsburg dynasty, added the majestic neoclassical colonnade of the Gloriette to enjoy a breathtaking view of the city. Silver and gold lights twinkle softly in the palace grounds, and dozens of stalls display traditional handicrafts made by local artisans. Buy unique gifts, sample Christmas treats, and enjoy a guided tour of the richly furnished and decorated rooms. After some free time, you will return to your ship.

Walking portions may be long and somewhat difficult, with occasional climbs, stairs, and slopes. Total walking or standing time generally ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours. 
Not included
Heurigen Dinner
Join in a convivial Heurigen dinner and toast the wine of the year at a local winery. Locals gather in the winemaker's tavern in a festive atmosphere; glasses are full, food is plentiful, and good cheer fills the soul. This tradition, dear to the whole... more+ country, is celebrated and marks the bottling of the vintage. This custom is essential to understanding Austria and the importance of viticulture to a people who have long relied on a successful harvest. You will travel with your guide to Grinzing, in the suburbs of Vienna. There, your host will welcome you with a glass of wine. Depending on the weather, you will enjoy delicious local dishes on the terrace or in the rustic dining room. A memorable and festive way to celebrate the grape harvest, accompanied by lively traditional music.

The walking portions are generally on easy surfaces with few steps or slopes. The total walking or standing time does not usually exceed 1.5 hours. 
Not included
Picturesque Bratislava at Christmas
Discover the vibrant Slovak capital and immerse yourself in its festive traditions. Meet your guide at your boat, then set off to explore this compact capital city. Pass by Grassalkovich Palace and Liberty Square on your way to Bratislava Castle to admire the... more+ city and surrounding plains, then head back down to the old town. Admire the medieval town hall complex, whose butter-colored tower dominates the city's red roofs, and marvel at the fortifications of Michael's Gate. Stroll through the main square and admire the Baroque Jesuit Church of St. Saviour and the Gothic St. Martin's Cathedral. Take time to browse the colorful market stalls and buy handmade crafts made of wood, glass, leather, beeswax, and more. Or sample some of the delicious Christmas specialties. Take time to relax; why not climb the tower of the old town hall for a breathtaking view?

The walking portions can be long and somewhat challenging, with occasional climbs, stairs, and slopes. The total walking or standing time generally ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours. 
Not included
Behind the scenes with the Lipizzaner stallions
Behind the scenes with the Lipizzaner stallions

Take a look behind the scenes at the elegant Spanish Riding School, home to the famous Lipizzaner stallions. Transfer to the Hofburg, the former imperial palace and seat of power of the Habsburgs. Upon... more+ arrival, you will join your host for a tour of this internationally renowned equestrian institution and its stables. Commissioned in 1729 by Emperor Charles VI, this facility is the oldest of its kind in the world. A portrait of the monarch is displayed in the opulent Baroque hall, the school's performance hall. Explore the outdoor courtyard, the tack room, and the historic stables of the Lipizzaner stallions, while your guide reveals interesting anecdotes about the heritage and training of Europe's oldest horse breed. Then climb aboard a fiacre, a traditional Viennese horse-drawn carriage, for a ride along the Ringstrasse, passing the Parliament, City Hall, and the Imperial Court Theater.

The walking sections can be long and somewhat difficult, with occasional climbs, stairs, and slopes. The total walking or standing time generally varies from 1.5 to 3 hours.

Please note: in July and August, the stallions are rested at another location. The mares and foals remain at the Lipizzaner stables. 
Not included
Mozart and Strauss Concert
Classical music never stops in Vienna, as you will hear live at this exceptional concert. Even the elegant architecture of the famous Ringstrasse seems to sing. Every day, the city celebrates its long musical tradition with concerts in prestigious venues. The... more+ Vienna Residence Orchestra is one of its most beloved institutions. Despite its youth (founded in 1989), it has welcomed some of the biggest names in classical music; Rudolf Nureyev was even a guest conductor. At this exceptional concert, let yourself be carried away by the lively tunes of Vienna's most beloved music. In a historic venue, experience the era with costumed singers and dancers taking to the stage. Enjoy the magnificent waltzes of Strauss and excerpts from Mozart's The Magic Flute. The magic continues with a panoramic walk after dark through illuminated Vienna.

The walking portions are generally on easy surfaces with few steps or slopes. The total walking or standing time is usually no more than 1.5 hours. 
Not included
Salzburg at Christmas
Spend the day in one of Austria's most beautiful Alpine cities, Salzburg, and visit its famous Christmas market. The setting for the cult film The Sound of Music, Salzburg is also the birthplace of the famous classical composer Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart. With... more+ your guide, you will travel through charming mountain villages, rolling hills, and crystal-clear lakes. Upon arrival in this magnificent city, enjoy a guided walking tour of the Italian-style old town, strolling past Baroque architecture and taking in breathtaking views of Salzburg. Continue to Domplatz, where you'll have the opportunity to browse the stalls of the traditional Christkindlmarkt, one of the oldest Advent markets in the world. Then enjoy lunch at Austria's oldest restaurant, named after the church, while classically trained singers and musicians will enchant you with songs inspired by the musical The Sound of Music.

The walking portions can be long and somewhat challenging, with occasional climbs, stairs, and slopes. The total walking or standing time generally ranges from 1.5 to 3 hours. 
Not included
Festive Bavarian Beer Festival
Take part in a festive celebration in an exceptional rural setting while sampling famous Bavarian beer. Bavaria is renowned for its rich brewing tradition, and for centuries the region has lived up to its reputation. You will meet your guide and head to the... more+ green hills of the Bavarian countryside to Gut Aichet, a large farm on the banks of the river, in the heart of the regional agricultural area. After a brief tour of the farm with your host, immerse yourself in the festive spirit of a true German Christmas, accompanied by traditional music and local beer. Watch an exceptional dance performance; if you wish, you can join in the dancing and sing a Christmas carol to celebrate the Bavarian spirit. Enjoy authentic pretzels during your stay, accompanied by an assortment of breads, spreads, and local cured ham.

Walking sections are generally on easy surfaces with few steps or slopes. The total walking or standing time is usually no more than 1.5 hours. 
Not included

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