Majestic Capitals of the Danube (A Taste of Christmas Markets) (Vienna to Budapest)

Call Us 800.528.9300

Majestic Capitals of the Danube (A Taste of Christmas Markets) (Vienna to Budapest)



Tour Description:

Delight in the Old-World grandeur of Europe’s most spectacular capital cities along the Danube River during this special 5-night journey. From Budapest, Hungary to Vienna, Austria, follow the paths of kings and queens (Habsburg royalty among them) on up to five included excursions each day. Enjoy guided hikes to hilltop castles such as Bratislava’s gleaming fortress, bike tours to beautiful sites like Klosterneuburg Abbey and tastings of local delights, such as the cake that started a national holiday in Austria: sachertorte. Plus, enjoy the local nightlife as each capital and its architectural wonders illuminate after sunset. Whether you are sailing the Danube River for the first time or returning to venture deeper into the cities that inspired you most, we invite you to celebrate this spectacular journey with us as we treat you like the royalty you are.

Map for Majestic Capitals of the Danube (A Taste of Christmas Markets) (Vienna to Budapest)
Click for larger view.

Dates & Pricing

Friday 27 Dec 24 — Wednesday 01 Jan 25Starting at $3,159 Get a Quote
Saturday 28 Dec 24 — Thursday 02 Jan 25Starting at $3,159 Get a Quote


ITINERARY

Day 1
EMBARKATION – VIENNA, AUSTRIA. Board the ship for your Majestic Capitals of the Danube cruise.

Day 2
VIENNA. The “City of Waltzes” offers a treasure trove of gems and your city tour showcases them, including the majestic Opera House and the former Imperial Palace. Your tour concludes in the historic city center with a visit to St. Stephen’s Cathedral. You’ll also have the opportunity to enjoy the festivities of the Christmas Markets. Or if you prefer a more active tour, take a guided bike ride through Vienna. Alternatively, visit a traditional Viennese café to experience a true Vienna specialty, the Sacher Torte, and savor this treat with a piping hot Viennese Coffee. During the afternoon, enjoy leisure time to further explore this iconic city. Spend your evening at the “Vienna by Night” Christmas Markets at the beautifully decorated Rathaus Christmas Market, Vienna’s largest Christmas Market.

Day 3
VIENNA — BRATISLAVA. Visit the UNESCO-designated Schönbrunn Palace for a visit to its magnificent Christmas Market, with a giant Christmas tree surrounded by stalls selling a great variety artisanal handicrafts, providing a spectacular festive atmosphere with the scent of mulled wine and gingerbread. Enjoy a scenic cruise in Vienna before sailing to Bratislava. In the evening, end your day with an exclusive Slovakian experience at the Primate’s Palace, a striking neoclassical building heart of the old town.

Day 4
BRATISLAVA, SLOVAKIA — BUDAPEST, HUNGARY. Host to the crowning ceremonies of 11 Hungarian kings and queens between 1536 and 1830, Bratislava certainly has earned the title “Coronation City of Kings,” as you’ll discover during your walking tour. Or join a special “Tastes of Slovakia” tour. For a more active adventure, hike up to Bratislava Castle, offering magnificent views of the city or enjoy a guided biking tour. Take in the magnificent view as we glide along the Danube River into Budapest.

Day 5
BUDAPEST. Your city tour begins at Budapest’s Great Market Hall, where you’ll discover plenty of delicious food and shopping. Afterwards, you’ll visit both the Buda (hilly) and Pest (flat) sides of the Danube River. You’ll see the 19th-century Chain Bridge, which connects the Buda district with Pest; and the UNESCO-designated Castle Hill district, which contains some of Budapest’s most important medieval monuments and museums. Afterwards, you’ll have a chance to shop for one-of-kind handcrafted gifts in one of Budapest's renowned Christmas Markets. If you prefer venturing off the beaten path or are returning to the city for a repeat visit, join our “Hidden Budapest” tour to discover some fascinating sites lesser-known to the average traveler. As an alternative choice, you can hike up to Castle Hill for breathtaking views of the city below.

Day 6
BUDAPEST – DISEMBARKATION. Disembark the ship as you prepare for your flight home. (B) Note: The Great Market Hall is closed on Sundays.