Christmas on the Danube featuring a 6-night Danube River Cruise - Alternative

Welcome the winter season with a timeless trip down the Danube River. Relax as you are transported along beloved cities, where age-old culture is interwoven into seasonal specialties. Peruse handcrafted trinkets, traditional sweets, and infectious holiday cheer as you make your way through some of Europe’s most renowned Christmas markets. Your holiday tour begins with an overnight flight to Austria.

Arrive in Vienna, Austria’s capital city. As arrival times may vary, there’s no scheduled sightseeing today. For those arriving earlier in the day, you may relax in the ship’s lounge and enjoy refreshments until your cabin is ready in the late afternoon. You may also consider visiting Vienna’s Christmas markets.* Tonight, gather with your fellow travelers and celebrate the journey ahead with a welcome dinner on board your ship.

It is time to step off the ship and explore. After walking along the pier to reach your coach, join a local expert on a panoramic city tour and see Vienna's architecture, including Hofburg Palace, the Vienna Opera House, and the Ringstrasse. Then, discover the city on foot as you walk through its charming cobblestone streets towards the awe-inspiring St. Stephen’s Cathedral and festive Christmas market. The afternoon is yours to enjoy Vienna however you wish. Perhaps you’ll join an optional excursion to Schönbrunn Palace, the Habsburgs’ summer retreat, to soak in its festive atmosphere and courtyard Christmas market.

Spend the morning visiting the medieval cobblestone streets of Dürnstein, a town crowned by the remnants of a castle tied to Richard the Lionheart’s legend. Enjoy some time to explore the charms and character of this centuries-old town. Then, get a taste of local tradition at a Glühwein party before returning onboard. Relax as you journey through the Wachau Valley, admiring the scenery dotted with castles and hillside houses. Arrive in the quaint town of Melk and take a short coach ride to the 900-year-old Benedictine Melk Abbey. Step inside on a guided tour, exploring the ceremonial halls and the magnificent library with its frescoed ceilings before returning to your ship.