This festive European river cruise vacation begins in Prague, the beautiful capital of the Czech Republic.
See famous sights like Old Town’s Astronomical Clock and the Charles Bridge, but also get the unique chance to stroll through the Christmas markets. It’s a treat to see the rows of brightly decorated wooden huts that sell Christmas tree ornaments, wooden toys, and Czech handicrafts. Explore to your heart’s content with a warm cup of svarene vino (hot mulled wine). Board your river cruise vessel in Nuremberg, Germany, with its medieval fortifications, gothic churches, and palaces. The Old Town is illuminated with festive lights and decorations and the Christmas market, one of the most famous in the world, has dozens of stalls offering traditional wares, such as Lebkuchen (spiced gingerbread), Glühwein (hot mulled wine), and unique decorations and ornaments.
Learn about local Christmas traditions, as you cruise to historical Regensburg, the only German city not bombed during WWII. Experience Passau’s charming Christmas market set against the breathtaking backdrop of St. Stephen’s Cathedral—a masterpiece of baroque architecture. Arrive in Melk, Austria, and tour the magnificent 11th century Benedictine Abbey—one of Europe’s largest monasteries. As you cruise through the wintery landscape of the picturesque Wachau Valley, enjoy the view with a tasting of traditional Austrian cookies. This Christmas river cruise ends in Austria’s magical capital of Vienna, home to the sounds of Mozart, Strauss, and the Vienna Boys’ Choir. See the famous sights with a Local Guide and enjoy a tour through the Christmas markets to get a taste of all the best flavors Austria offers during this time of year.
Day 1: Prague, Czech Rebublic
Welcome to Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic.
This fascinating city straddles the Vltava River with domes, cupolas, spires, and pinnacles highlighting its skyline. Enjoy free time to explore the Prague and its surrounding countryside. Sample delicious plum dumplings and traditional Pilsner lager beside the Vltava River.
Day 2: Prague
Gothic Cathedrals, Grand Castles, and Czech Christmas Spirits
CLASSIC EXCURSION: Take a Guided City Walk to visit Hradčany Castle Grounds; see St. Vitus Cathedral, and Old Town’s Astronomical Clock. Spend the afternoon on your own to browse the exquisite Christmas Markets of Prague. Stroll through the brightly colored wooden stalls for ornaments and handmade toys and handicrafts. (B)
Day 3: Prague – Nuremberg, Germany
The Perfect Christmas Wish Come True
Indulge in traditional holiday fare and hot libations to warm your heart and soul before your transfer to Nuremberg and board your Avalon Suite Ship®
Overnight in Nuremberg (B, D)
Day 4: Nuremberg
Legends and History Lessons
CLASSIC EXCURSION: Choose a Guided Tour of Nuremberg’s medieval architecture, gilded fountain, Gothic cathedral, and Kaiserburg Castle, OR:
CLASSIC EXCURSION: Join a Guided Tour of the historic Nuremberg Rally Grounds—used by the Third Reich.
Spend free time on your own to browse the spruce stalls of the Christmas Markets of Nuremberg. Sample favorite Bavarian fare—from dozens of bratwurst varieties, gingerbread, mulled blueberry wine, and countless other culinary delights of the Christkindlesmarkt.
Enjoy live entertainment as you sail. Overnight sailing to Regensburg. (B, L, D)
Day 5: Regensburg
Christmas Magic in Bavaria
CLASSIC EXCURSION: Join a Guided City Walk and see Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall) and Porta Pretoria—entrance to the Castra Regina fortress built in 179 AD. Take time to browse Regensburg’s sparkling Christmas markets. Enjoy hot-mulled wine, candied almonds, gingerbread, or bratwurst.
DISCOVERY EXCURSION: Enjoy a Christmas Traditions Lecture on board.
Evening/Overnight cruise to Passau. (B, L, D)
Day 6: Passau
Saint Stephens, Salzburg, and the Story of Silent Night
CLASSIC EXCURSION: Join a Guided City Walk to learn more about this beautiful “City of Three Rivers.” You may like to join a Guided Optional Excursion to Salzburg, Austria. See the setting of The Sound of Music, and learn the story behind the beloved Christmas hymn, Silent Night. Spend free time in Passau’s charming Christkindlesmarkt near magnificent St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Take a brief evening cruise to Linz. Enjoy live entertainment on board.
Overnight cruise to Melk. (B, L, D)
Optional excursion to Salzburg’s Christmas Ties & Traditions.
Day 7: Melk, Austria - Vienna
Frescoes Above the Wachau Valley
CLASSIC EXCURSION: Take a Guided Tour of Melk’s magnificent Benedictine Abbey to marvel at its frescoed ceilings. DISCOVERY EXCURSION: Enjoy an Austrian Cookie Tasting while sailing through the splendid Wachau Valley to Vienna.
VIENNA | Vienna’s Winter Wonderland
This evening, you may choose to attend an Optional Excursion to a Royal Waltz Concert for an unforgettable evening of music in an elegant hall. Overnight docking in Vienna.(B, L, D)
Optional: Classical Concert: Enjoy a spellbinding evening
Day 8: Vienna – Disembarkation
Your vacation comes to an end.
Inquire for current pricing and promotions.
WZA-T3 | CHRISTMASTIME ON THE DANUBE WITH 2 NIGHTS PRAGUE EASTBOUND
PRAGUE TO VIENNA – 2026
December 2 – 10 – Avalon Vision
December 3 – 11 – Avalon Impression
December 6 – 14 – Avalon Passion
December 9 – 17 – Avalon Vision
December 12 – 20 – Avalon Expression
December 15 – 23 – Avalon Impression
PRAGUE TO VIENNA – 2027
November 25 – December 3 – Avalon Impression
December 1 – 9 – Avalon Tranquility II
December 2 – 10 – Avalon Expression
December 7 – 15 – Avalon Tranquility II
December 11 – 19 – Avalon Impression
December 13 – 21 – Avalon Tranquility II
Inquire about other preferred river cruise suppliers: Uniworld River Cruise, Riverside Luxury Cruises, Viking, Ama Waterways, Scenic.
Disclaimer: We do our utmost to ensure that the information is correct at time of publication, however trip details and promotions are subject to change without notice by the suppliers and operators involved. We update the information as soon as possible when changes are advised to us, however we cannot assume responsibility for such changes made by the suppliers and operators. Terms and conditions per supplier(s).
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