Christmas time on the Danube

Welcome to the ‘City of Music’, Vienna. It has a magical atmosphere over Christmas, with elaborate decorations and more than 20 festive markets. Youll be met at the airport by an Emerald Cruises representative and transferred to your luxurious Emerald Star-Ship, where your friendly captain and crew will be waiting to greet you. As you stay overnight in Vienna, you’ll have plenty of time to discover the Viennese markets during the late afternoon hours, while the magical Christmas atmosphere settles in.

This ornate cityscape was home to famous musicians and composers like Mozart and Beethoven, and the father of psychoanalysis, Sigmund Freud. At this time of year, its squares become enchanting Christmas markets filled with the aromas of cookies, hot punch and roasted chestnuts. The Old City and shopping streets sparkle with festive lights. Included Excursion Guided tour of Vienna with Christmas markets Explore the famous sights of the Ringstrasse and Vienna’s city centre by coach and on foot. Marvel at the Renaissance-style arches that adorn the façades of the Opera House, the Baroque Burgtheater and the Flemish Gothic Parliament before enjoying time to visit the Christmas markets on your own DiscoverMORE Visit to Schönbrunn Palace (extra expense) Schönbrunn Palace, the former summer residence of the Habsburg Empire, is considered one of the most beautiful Baroque palaces in Europe. Today, it is a recognised World Heritage site for its historic importance, unique grounds and splendid furnishings. Follow a local expert to hear the fascinating tales of the intriguing former residents. Activity level: Easy, Duration: 5 hours DiscoverMORE Viennese evening concert (extra expense) With Mozart, Beethoven, Strauss and Schubert among its historical repertoire, Vienna is the world capital of opera and classical music. Enjoy an exclusive evening concert at one of Vienna’s most beautiful concert halls, with favourites such as the ‘Blue Danube Waltz’ and the ‘Radetzky March’. A complimentary glass of sparkling wine on arrival adds to the unforgettable occasion. Activity level: Easy, Duration: 2.5 hours

Gothic architecture and fascinating tales of a Communist past welcome you to Bratislava, a capital that has seen much turbulence over the past century. Set at the crossroads of ancient trade routes, this is a place where Baroque palaces, boutiques and cafés adorn medieval cobblestone streets. The Christmas season adds an extra layer to the city, where a blend of distinctive cultures comes together to showcase their handcrafted ornaments and delicious treats. Included Excursion Walking tour of Bratislava with Christmas market Enjoy a sightseeing tour including the enchanting Old City. Your local guide will take you through the heart of the city. Pass by the botanical gardens of the Episcopal Summer Palace, the Old Town Hall and its delightful Renaissance courtyard and the Slovak National Theatre, where busts of famous composers adorn the façade. After your tour, enjoy free time to explore the Christmas markets at leisure. EmeraldPLUS Christmas traditions in Europe (lecture on board) Learn about the fascinating Christmas traditions of the destinations you’ll visit during this engaging lecture on board from your Cruise Director. EmeraldPLUS Traditional Slovakian entertainment on board Relax on board this evening as you are entertained by traditional musicians and performers.

Offering an abundance of historical whimsy, Budapest is known for its architectural diversity and famed monuments that pepper both sides of the Danube. This World Heritage-listed city is a true delight at Christmas, when it becomes a magical winter wonderland of decorations, lights and festive cheer. The locals soak in the city’s many thermal baths to beat the crisp chill of the season. Today, your guided coach tour will introduce you to Andrássy Avenue and the neo-Renaissance façades of the townhouses found there, as well as a generous scattering of Christmas decorations. Included Excursion Guided coach tour of Budapest with Christmas market Enjoy a guided tour of the city with your local guide this morning. Explore the World Heritage-listed centre, travelling through the chapters of architecture through the ages from Romanesque to Baroque and classical façades. See the Liberty Statue, Heroes’ Square and the Buda Castle district, before a walking tour showcases Matthias Church and the Fisherman’s Bastion. Afterwards, explore the Christmas market. DiscoverMORE Excursion to Szentendre (extra expense) Visit the picturesque village of Szentendre, where cobblestone streets evoke a Mediterranean atmosphere that has inspired many artists. Take a walking tour through the pedestrian city centre to admire the Baroque architecture, churches, colourful houses and narrow, cobbled streets. The main square, Fo Tér, and the alleyways around it are lined with art galleries, museums and shops. Activity level: Moderate, Duration: 4 hours

After breakfast, it’s time to say farewell to your fellow guests. Disembark your Emerald Star-Ship for your transfer to the airport and take memories of colourful Christmas markets and crisp winter mornings with you. This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.