This Danube River cruise at Christmastime delights with the shining sights and sounds of the holiday season. Experience the beautiful traditions of the festive season amid 14th-century architecture and towns virtually unchanged since Roman times. Walk down narrow cobblestone streets lined with beautiful patrician houses and Christkindlmarkt stalls alight with glowing atmosphere of three beautiful countries. Sail through a winter wonderland and revel in the Advent season as each town is festively decorated, offering holiday wares and delicious fare to warm the heart.
Sailing Avalon Waterways’ Christmas on the Danube means every moment is wrapped in holiday magic, from glittering markets to storybook villages along the river. You’ll enjoy the ease of unpacking once while still exploring multiple destinations, with every detail thoughtfully curated for you. Best of all, the warmth of the season is matched by Avalon's attentive service, making your journey as joyful as it is unforgettable.
It's Even Easier with Your Travel Advisor Onboard!
Traveling with me as your advisor means you’ll have a trusted guide right by your side, ensuring everything feels effortless so you can fully relax and enjoy the journey.
Welcome to Germany. Your Suite Ship® is Ready for Boarding.
Guests must be on board ship by 5 pm.
Indulge in traditional holiday fare and hot libations to warm your heart and soul.
Explore your ship this evening and enjoy dinner on board.
In Nuremberg, choose between a guided tour of the city’s medieval landmarks or the historic Rally Grounds, then enjoy time to explore the famous Christmas Markets filled with festive stalls, regional treats, and Bavarian specialties. The day concludes with live entertainment on board as your ship sets sail for Regensburg.
In Regensburg, take a guided city walk to historic sites like the Altes Rathaus and Porta Pretoria, then explore the festive Christmas markets with treats like mulled wine, gingerbread, and bratwurst. On board, enjoy a Christmas Traditions lecture before your evening cruise to Passau.
In Passau, take a guided city walk through the “City of Three Rivers” and explore the festive Christkindlesmarkt near St. Stephen’s Cathedral, or choose a full-day optional excursion to Salzburg to experience Austrian Christmas traditions.
Visit Melk’s stunning Benedictine Abbey on a guided tour to admire its frescoed ceilings, ornate pipe organ, and historic library, then enjoy an Austrian cookie tasting as you sail toward Vienna. In the evening, experience the magic of the Danube with Viennese waltzes, or join an optional Royal Waltz Concert.
Explore Vienna’s gilded landmarks on a guided city tour, including the Imperial Palace, Vienna Opera House, and St. Stephen’s Cathedral, then enjoy free time to visit the Christkindlesmarkt or a cozy café. In the evening, choose an optional tour of Schönbrunn Palace before relaxing on board with live entertainment as the ship sails to Budapest.
Discover Budapest on a guided city tour, including the iconic Heroes’ Square, then choose to take a scenic hike above the Danube or explore the city’s cafés, pubs, and vibrant Christmas market. The day concludes with an overnight stay docked in Budapest.
Your cruise concludes with breakfast on the ship this morning before departing for home or moving on to explore another local city.
Choose from a Deluxe Stateroom or Panorama Suite.
Enjoy delicious local and international cuisine with flexible dining options onboard. Also included are beer and wine with lunch and dinner, as well as cocktails during nightly Happy Hour.
You'll have your choice of various complimentary excursion options* at each port. Additional specially-curated excursions are available for purchase in select ports.
No need to worry about tipping -- your gratuities are included in your pricing, which means you have more to spend at the markets!
- Complimentary Starlink Wi-Fi (Standard Wi-Fi where available in Asia)
- Panoramic windows throughout the ship
- Elegant, contemporary design & decor
- Friendly, English-speaking crew & Cruise Director
- Sky Deck with whirlpool, shade awnings, game area and premium lounges
- Covered Observation Lounge
- Club Lounge with 24-hour self-serve beverage station with complimentary cappuccinos, lattes, tea, hot chocolate & premium coffees, as well as treats throughout the day
- Elevator
- Non-smoking interior and staterooms
Cabin Options from
• Deluxe Stateroom: $4,301 per person*
• Panorama Suite: $6,200 per person*
Deposit: $250 per person
Final Payment: August 25, 2027
*Double occupancy. Travel insurance, extra nights, airport transfers and airfare are additional. Please inquire for more details.