Christmas On The Danube – Cruise BD135
Christmas On The Danube - BD135
The Christmas On The Danube cruise visits renowned Christmas market towns such as Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest. Admire the beauty of Austria’s Lake District and the Czech Republic’s charming mountain town, Český Krumlov and visit the best Christmas Market in the world. Travel from Budapest to Passau to experience the best Christmas cruise!
Countries:
Rivers:
7 NIGHT CRUISE - WITH EXCURSIONS
On our Christmas on the Danube Cruise from Budapest to Passau there is an extensive lineup of tours that are all included in the price. Choose between excursions, such as standard tours, bike tours, hikes and Special Interest Tours.
Itinerary ~ Christmas On The Danube
1st Day
EMBARKATION – BUDAPEST, HUNGARY
Board your Christmas on the Danube from Budapest to Passau. Tonight, meet your fellow passengers. (D)
2nd Day
BUDAPEST
Home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Buda Castle quarter in Castle Hill and Heroes’ Square, Budapest offers an unmatched combination of culture and tradition. Your city tour begins with a visit to the vibrant Great Market Hall.
The remainder of this tour takes you to both the Buda (hilly) and the Pest (flat) sides of the river. Afterwards, you’ll visit Vörösmarty Square, the oldest, richest and the most spectacular of all the Christmas Markets in Budapest.
As an alternative, you can hike to Castle Hill, walking along Fishermen’s Bastion and take in all the iconic sites of Budapest with an active exploration.
3rd Day
BRATISLAVA, SLOVAKIA
Discover why Bratislava earned the title “Coronation City of Kings” on a walking tour that includes the Old Town Hall, Mirbach Palace and St. Martin’s Cathedral.
Visit the Bratislava Christmas market or join a "Tastes of Slovakia" tour.
For more adventure, go high above the city on a hiking tour to Bratislava Castle. (B,L,D)
4th Day
VIENNA, AUSTRIA
Join a city tour showcasing Vienna. The tour includes the majestic Opera House and the former Imperial Palace of the Habsburgs. Conclude the tour in Vienna’s historic city center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and then visit St. Stephen’s Cathedral.
For a more active exploration of the area, take a guided bike ride along the Danube.
During the afternoon, you can enjoy leisure time or pedal your way to Klosterneuburg Monastery on a guided cycling tour. (B,L,D)
5th Day
KREMS, AUSTRIA
Morning Options
- Stroll along Dürnstein’s cobblestone streets to the Baroque Stiftskirche, with its famed church tower on a walking tour.
- For a more culinary-focused experience in Dürnstein, enjoy a wine tasting and special apricot treats from a local boutique.
- Those who wish a more active adventure of the area can hike to historic Dürnstein Fortress or cycle from Krems to Spitz and back for lunch.
Afternoon Options
- Cruise through the vineyard-rich Wachau Valley to Spitz. One of the most beautiful river valleys in Europe and it is also where some of Austria’s finest white wines are produced.
- Visit the 900-year-old Melk Abbey situated high atop the granite cliffs of the Danube; or get active with either a Spitz-Melk-Spitz bike tour or hiking adventure.
Evening
Enjoy an exclusive wine festival where you’ll enjoy some of the regions famous wines, including Grüner Veltliner and Riesling. (B,L,D)
6th Day
Linz
Linz is known for being the city of Christmas crèches and its ever-popular Linzer torte. While here, you have a choice of excursions.
The first is a full-day visit to Salzburg where you’ll enjoy a walking tour of the UNESCO-designated Old Town, its magnificent cathedral and its Christmas Markets, including the Hellbrunn Palace, where its inner courtyard is turned into a romantic backdrop for one of the most beautiful Christmas Markets in Austria.
Alternatively, you can choose a morning walking tour through Linz’s old city center and by the Mozart House, where he composed the Linz Symphony in only three days, as well as visit Linz’s Christmas Markets.
Or you can go on a guided bike tour through Linz and along the city’s famed “Culture Mile” and the Danube.
Your last choice is to visit the charming Czech mountain town of Cesky Krumlov. (B,L,D)
7th Day
PASSAU
Discover Passau's Christmas livery on your walking tour through the city, the Christmas Market at St. Stephen’s Square. Go in search of unique crafts, including Bavarian-style houses and glass ornaments.
If you prefer a more active adventure, join a guided bike ride along the Danube to Wernstein
Alternately, you can hike to the Mariahilf pilgrimage church and monastery, enthroned high above Innenstadt, a suburb that offers magnificent views across the old town and surrounding countryside.
Later, sail to Vilshofen, where you’ll be treated to an exclusive Oktoberfest celebration. (B,L,D)
Day 8
VILSHOFEN – DISEMBARKATION
Disembark your cruise from Budapest to Passau. We hope you enjoyed Christmas on the Danube and will retrun to sail with us again. Bid farewell to the ship, your new friends and the cute little town of Vilshofen. (B)
Land Extensions
- Vilshofen A - Pre Cruise: 2 night Munich; Post Cruise 2 Nights Budapest
- Vilshofen B - Pre Cruise: 3 nights Prague; Post Cruise: 2 nights Budapest
- Budapest B - Pre Cruise : 2 nights Budapest; Post Cruise 3 nights Prague
Pricing ~ Christmas On The Danube
2020
2021
| Embark Date | Start City | Ship Name | Cruise | Land Extension | Cruise & Land | Discounts |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Nov-29 | Vilshofen | AmaMagna | 3,399 | 1,390 | 4,789 | $250 |
| Dec-06 | Budapest | AmaMagna | 3,499 | 1,390 | 4,889 | $500 |
| Dec-13 | Vilshofen - Triple Savings | AmaMagna | 3,499 | 1,390 | 4,889 | $1,000 |
| Dec-20 | Budapest - Triple Savings | AmaMagna | 3,499 | 1,390 | 4,889 | $1,000 |
Price Per Person in USD
Promotions
1. Early Bird - $ Discount Per Person if you book By April 30, 2020 (plus 5%off balcony or suite)
2. (5%) Balcony or Suite - additional savings when you book a Balcony Stateroom or Suite on this departure.
Cabin Upgrades
| Cabin Upgrade | Sq. ft. | Premium |
|---|---|---|
| Category OS Upper Deck Outside Balcony | 710 | 9,999 |
| Category GS Upper Deck Outside Balcony | 474 | 6,999 |
| Category SA Upper Deck Outside Balcony | 355 | 3,399 |
| Category SB Upper Deck Outside Balcony | 355 | 2,999 |
| Category AA Upper Deck Outside Balcony | 252 | 2,099 |
| Category AB Main Deck Outside Balcony | 252 | 1,899 |
| Category D Lower Deck Fixed Window | 205 | 499 |
| Category E Piano Deck Fixed Window | 205 | - |
Notes:
- Port Charges not included in cruise price $182 per person.
- Single Supplement for Cruise: 50% of twin price; AA+ and Suite 100% of twin price.
- Single Supplement for Land: A single supplement charge will be applied to pre- and post-cruise hotel extensions. Please call for pricing details.
- Please select bedding configuration at the time of booking. Option A: Two twin beds Option B: One large bed (larger than queen size).
Included ~ Christmas On The Danube
SPACIOUS STATEROOMS
- 7 nights luxury accommodation in an outside stateroom (most with twin balconies)
- Computer for internet access
- Entertainment-On-Demand in all staterooms featuring free high-speed internet access, movies, a music library and English language TV stations
- Mini-fridge, desk and sitting area
- Bottled water replenished daily
A WORLD OF EXPLORATION
- Immersive tours in every destination
- Gentle, regular, active and late-riser tour options
- Bike tours and hikes
- Special Interest Tours
- Knowledgeable guides
- Personal headset for easy exploration
- Airport transfers with purchase of air from AmaWaterways
AN ARRAY OF AMENITIES
- Wellness Program with a dedicated Wellness Host leading various exercise classes as well as discussions on healthy eating and relaxation techniques, both on board and on shore.
- Personalized service from a highly trained Cruise Manager during both cruise and land programs
- Internet and Wi-Fi access
- Sun deck pool with swim-up bar and walking track
- Fitness room, massage services and hair salon
- Main Lounge with panoramic views and bar
- Daily entertainment including cultural performances
AWARD-WINNING DINING
- All onboard dining in a variety of venues
- Regionally inspired cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients
- The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant
- Welcome Cocktail, Welcome Dinner, La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs Dinner, Captain's Cocktail and Gala Dinner
- La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs exclusive dining experience
- Unlimited fine wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner
- Unlimited sparkling wine and fresh juice with breakfast
- Sip & Sail Cocktail Hour with complimentary wine, beer, spirits and soft drinks
- Tapas, sandwiches, snacks and refreshments served daily in the Main Lounge
Blue Danube Holidays are authorized AmaWaterways distributors
Gallery ~ Christmas On The Danube
The Ship ~ Christmas On The Danube
AmaMagna
The AmaMagna redefines the river cruise experience. Twice the width of traditional European river ships, the AmaMagna offers more than 50% ultra-spacious suite accommodations with full balconies as well as five onboard bars, four unique dining experiences, an expansive Zen Wellness Studio, two soothing massage rooms, a hair salon, nail salon and much more.
The Christmas Markets ~ Christmas On The Danube
One of the most exciting highlights on a European cruise in December is the abundance of Christmas markets. Many of these markets have been operating for centuries upholding the seasonal traditions and values of the local people.
Scheduled shore excursions will feature visits to the most famous, authentic and simply stunningly decorated markets. The stalls sell high quality, locally made, hand crafted items that make wonderful gifts and souvenirs for your loved ones back home. Here is an overview.
Budapest – Advent and Christmas Fair on Vorosmarty Square
The Vorosmarty Square Christmas Market is considered one of the most beautiful markets in Europe. It features more than a hundred selected artisans that must adhere to strict regulations ensuring only the finest handmade original crafts are on sale. Here you will find a diversity of unique gifts including traditional Hungarian textile products, crafted wooden toys, beautiful jewelry, ceramic and glass ornaments. You will also find an array of gingerbread, marzipan and chocolate goodies to enjoy or if you can delay the gratification take home! There will be a variety of live stage performances and activities for the children. Entry is free.
For more information: https://www.budapestinfo.hu/advent-and-christmas-fair
The following cruises visit the Budapest Christmas market:
https://www.bluedanubeholidays.com/tours/iconic-christmas-markets-cruise/
https://www.bluedanubeholidays.com/tours/christmas-markets-danube-cruise/
Vienna – Viennese Dream,
Christmas markets in Vienna are a long-held tradition originating back to the Middle Ages. In 1298 Albrecht I granted the Viennese people the right to hold a December market, known then as “Krippenmarkt”.
Nowadays there are 20 markets operating in Vienna. Our favorites include the Viennese Dream Christmas market, which is held in the backdrop of the spectacularly lit City Hall. Children can enjoy learning to make Christmas cookies or candles and a festive spirit is imbued by choirs singing carols.
This market opens mid-November and runs through until Christmas. For more information about the Viennese Dream Christmas Market: https://www.wienerweihnachtstraum.at/en/viennese-christmas-market-and-ice-dream/
Schönbrunn Palace
The Schönbrunn Christmas and New Year’s market is held right in front of the famous palace. It features 80 exhibitors selling traditional handicrafts as well as Austrian delicacies. Don’t forget to try the freshly baked Vanillekipferl a wonderfully light, crescent shaped Christmas cookie dusted in vanilla sugar. Delicious! The Schönbrunn Palace Christmas and New Year’s market opens late November and runs to early January.
For more information: http://www.weihnachtsmarkt.co.at/en/
Maria -Theresien Platz Christmas Markets
The beautifully decorated Maria Theresien Platz Christmas Village and Market is set amongst the world famous Ringstrasse and the illuminated Rathaus. It is Vienna’s largest Christmas market and one not to be missed. 10 restaurateurs offer an array of delicacies and mulled wines. Artisans display a variety of lovingly decorated wooden, glass and ceramic items. The market opens late November through early January.
For more information: https://www.weihnachtsmarkt.at/en/maria-theresien-platz/the-market/information/
The following cruises visit Vienna’s Christmas markets:
https://www.bluedanubeholidays.com/tours/iconic-christmas-markets-cruise/
https://www.bluedanubeholidays.com/tours/christmas-markets-danube-cruise/
https://www.bluedanubeholidays.com/tours/magical-christmas-markets-cruise/
https://www.bluedanubeholidays.com/tours/christmas-cruise-danube/
https://www.bluedanubeholidays.com/tours/magic-advent-danube-cruise/
Passau – Christkindelsmärik
The Passau Christmas market is set in the backdrop of St Stephen's Cathedral in the old historic heart of this beautiful Baroque town. With the charm of a smaller town the stalls offer high-quality goods and regional specialities. You will find wooden carvings and leather goods, jewelry and festive gifts, as well as hand crafted Christmas ornaments.
One of the delights in Passau in December is to follow the Nativity Path (Krippenweg) to see the varied nativity scenes that are exhibited. From contemporary to traditional, the figures and animals are crafted from a variety of materials such as chocolate, glass, tin, silver and ceramics as well as wood. They make a unique and creative festive experience.
The Passau Christmas market runs from late November to the day before Christmas Eve. For more information: http://passauer-christkindlmarkt.de/
The following cruises visit the Passau market:
https://www.bluedanubeholidays.com/tours/iconic-christmas-markets-cruise/
https://www.bluedanubeholidays.com/tours/christmas-markets-danube-cruise/
https://www.bluedanubeholidays.com/tours/magical-christmas-markets-cruise/
https://www.bluedanubeholidays.com/tours/christmas-cruise-danube/
https://www.bluedanubeholidays.com/tours/magic-advent-danube-cruise/
Bratislava – Christmas Market
The ancient part of Bratislava is pedestrianized, and the Christmas market can be found at the Main Square and in front of the 9th century Bratislava Castle. This market is known for traditional crafts and homemade gifts, children singing folk music and local acapella singers entertaining with Christmas songs.
Don’t miss the wide variety of local delicacies to try. These include Loksa a dense salty pancake with roasted pork. Or perhaps goose wing in red wine sauce. Ciganska peclenka (Roma styled pork) is very popular as a snack on the go. It includes chicken or pork in a bun with onion and mustard. For the sweet tooth don’t miss the strudel with a cup of mead (honey wine), a sweet drink served hot to keep out the chill.
Bratislava market usually runs from mid-November through until the end of December.
For more information: https://www.visitbratislava.com/
The following cruises visit the Bratislava Christmas markets:
https://www.bluedanubeholidays.com/tours/christmas-markets-danube-cruise/
https://www.bluedanubeholidays.com/tours/christmas-cruise-danube/
Contact Us
For more information about the Christmas market cruises and the delightful places they visit please contact Blue Danube Holidays for more information. https://www.bluedanubeholidays.com/contact-us/
We hope you are inspired to join us on our next Danube River Cruise. Here are some Tourist Authority Links to help your research Austria – Germany - Hungary - Slovakia
