Sail along the Danube River on a winter cruise with exciting stops and panoramic views in Austria and Germany, and conclude in historic Nuremberg, Germany. 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. Embark your Avalon Suite Ship in Budapest. As you leave Budapest, you’ll sail past the splendid Parliament Building and, along the Danube River, you’ll see Hungary on your left and Slovakia on your right as a 58-mile stretch of the river runs between both countries.

Enjoy an amazing view of the landscapes of Bratislava while sailing. Vienna, Austria, offers stunning St. Stephen’s Cathedral, the Habsburg Palace, the Vienna Opera House and in this time of the year, Christmas markets are scattered around the city, with the largest located in front of the city hall. Join a traditional city sightseeing tour ending with a walk through the Christmas market to taste some of the local traditional specialties. Glide through the winter wonderland of the Wachau Valley, and visit Austria’s majestic Benedictine Abbey in Melk. Join in a guided walk through Passau, with its narrow streets and the Christkindlmarkt set against the stunning backdrop of St. Stephen’s Cathedral.

Sail further up the Danube River to discover the medieval walls of Regensburg—the only German city not bombed during WWII. Here, you can become acquainted with some of Germany’s famous beers! The last stop on this memorable river cruise holiday is the thousand-year-old city of Nuremberg, famous for one of the oldest Christmas market in Germany. After guided city sightseeing, be sure to explore the many stalls and try some spicy gingerbread and Glühwein! The perfect ending to a memorable river cruise holiday!

Traveller Notes
Christmas markets generally operate from late November until the third week of December.