Day 1: A Sparkling Arrival - Budapest, Hungary
Begin your festive journey on the Danube
Arrive in enchanting Budapest, where twinkling lights and Old-World charm welcome you aboard your luxurious river cruise ship. Settle in, toast to the season, and prepare for a magical holiday voyage through the heart of Europe.
Day 2: Holiday magic in Buda and Pest - Budapest, Hungary
Discover grand boulevards and winter warmth
Explore both sides of Budapest as you wander through the snow-kissed Castle District, marvel at Fisherman’s Bastion’s fairytale towers, and admire the colorful roof of Matthias Church. In Pest, discover the iconic Parliament Building, Heroes’ Square, and the moving “Shoes on the Danube Bank” memorial. Whether you stroll, hike, or explore more actively, Budapest shines bright with festive splendor.
Day 3: Royal holiday charm - Bratislava, Slovakia
Kings, castles and warm seasonal flavors
Step into Bratislava’s regal past as you explore its historic Old Town, once the site of royal coronations. Celebrate the season with a culinary experience featuring traditional Slovak specialties–or take in sweeping winter views from Bratislava Castle on a guided hike. Cozy, colorful, and festive, the city feels like a holiday postcard brought to life.
Day 4: A Viennese winter waltz - Vienna, Austria
Imperial grandeur wrapped in holiday glow
Embrace the timeless elegance of Vienna during the holiday season. Visit its majestic Opera House, the former Imperial Palace, and iconic St. Stephen’s Cathedral–or glide through the city on a winter bike tour. With free time to shop, wander, or sip warm treats, Vienna’s festive sparkle is yours to enjoy.
Day 5: Wachau Valley winter wonders - Weissenkirchen, Austria
Cozy wines, apricot treats, and Abbey splendor
In charming Weissenkirchen, sample local wines and festive apricot specialties–or bike through the valley’s quiet winter vineyards to Melk. Later, explore the grand Melk Abbey, glowing warmly above the Danube with its treasured manuscripts and opulent frescoes. The Wachau Valley’s seasonal beauty is a true holiday delight.
Day 6: Holiday adventures in Austria - Linz, Austria
From musical magic to fairytale streets
Choose your perfect festive experience: stroll through Salzburg’s iconic filming sites from The Sound of Music, explore the snow-dusted charm of Český Krumlov, or discover Linz’s historic heart and creative riverfront. Cap off the day with an engaging whiskey distillery tour for a warm winter finish.
Day 7: Passau’s winter beauty - Passau, Germany
Baroque splendor and scenic adventures
Explore Passau’s Gothic and Baroque treasures on foot, bike along the Danube, or hike to the hilltop Veste Oberhaus fortress for stunning winter views. Later, cruise to Vilshofen for an exclusive holiday-themed Oktoberfest celebration–complete with Bavarian music, dancing, and local beer to toast the season.
Day 8: Bid farewell to the magical Danube and prepare for your journey home - Vilshofen, Germany