Iconic Christmas Markets- December 11th - 18th, 2027

Nuremberg, Germany to Budapest, Hungary along the Main and Upper Danube Rivers - Christmas Markets River Cruise with AmaWaterways

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Iconic Christmas Markets

Experience the magic of the season as twinkling markets, storybook streets, and centuries-old traditions transform Europe’s heart into a glittering holiday wonderland.

Countries Visited: Germany, Austria, Hungary, Czech Republic (Land Program Only)

  • Pre-Cruise Option: Prague, Czech Republic

  • Post-Cruise Option: Budapest, Hungary

  • Flights

    AmaWaterways can assist with arranging flights for our group; we can customize flight options beginning February 2027 depending on. the pre- and post- cruise options guests choose to participate in. Pricing quoted does not include flights to and from Europe.

Iconic Christmas Markets: River Cruise Itinerary

  • Nuremberg welcomes you with one-of-a-kind holiday charm

    Nuremberg, Germany

    Board your ship and begin your trip down the Danube

    Arrive in Nuremberg and embark on your ship, marking the start of your immersive journey through Germany’s cozy Christmas festivities. Roam Nuremberg’s cobbled streets, savor festive flavors, and soak in the magic of its storied Christmas markets

    Explore Nuremberg’s WWII highlights before wandering the cobblestone streets to the Imperial Castle and 900-year-old city ramparts. Visit the famous Christkindlesmarkt, one of the world’s largest Christmas Markets, or spend the morning fully immersed in its festive atmosphere. Food lovers can sample Nuremberg sausages and beer at the City Brewery and sweet lebkuchen at Sebalder Kirche before crossing the Continental Divide on the Main-Danube Canal.

    Choose from a variety of activities to enjoy on your cruise such as:

    Nuremberg Christmas Market Visit •City Tour and Christmas Markets •Tastes of Franconia

  • Regensburg enchants with medieval streets and iconic Christmas markets

    Regensburg, Germany

    Stroll Regensburg’s medieval streets, savor Bavarian flavors, and bask in the glow of its enchanting Christmas markets

    Discover Regensburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Germany’s best-preserved medieval cities, on a guided walking tour of its architectural highlights, including the Old Town Hall and Porta Praetoria. Visit the Old Town Christmas Market, sample Bavarian specialties, or bike to the neoclassical Walhalla temple. At Thurn and Taxis Christmas Markets, watch local artisans at work.

    Choose from a variety of activities to enjoy on your cruise

    UNESCO City Tour and Christmas Market• Tastes of Bavaria• Walhalla Bike Tour• Thurn and Taxis Christmas Markets

  • Vienna and Salzburg glow with their historic heritage and holiday charm

    Passau, Germany

    Roam Passau’s historic streets and savor the magic of Salzburg

    Explore Linz on a walking tour of its 2,000-year-old streets, Gothic and Baroque architecture, and St. Stephen’s Church, followed by a visit to the festive Christmas Market. For more adventure, bike along the Danube, or take a full-day voyage through the Austrian Alps to Salzburg and explore its UNESCO-listed Old Town, grand cathedral, and holiday markets.

    Choose from a variety of activities to enjoy on your cruise

    Full Day Salzburg Excursion with Christmas Markets •“city of Three Rivers” Walking Tour and Christmas Market •River Inn Bike Tour

  • Melk Abbey glows with history and Baroque artistry

    Melk, Austria

    Marvel at Melk Abbey’s soaring Baroque splendor and wander its storied halls

    Perched on a rocky outcrop, Melk Abbey is one of Europe’s most celebrated Baroque monasteries. Explore its historic museum and renowned library, or opt for a guided bike ride around the charming town of Melk.

    Choose from a variety of activities to enjoy on your cruise

    Melk Abbey Visit•Danube Bike Tour•Rathaus Christmas Market by Night

  • From Opera House grandeur to Schönbrunn’s holiday magic

    Vienna, Austria

    Explore Vienna’s imperial splendors and festive markets, where music, history, and holiday magic intertwine

    Discover the magic of Vienna, the “City of Waltzes,” on a tour of its regal landmarks, which includes the Opera House and former Imperial Palace. Visit the city’s iconic and festive Christmas Markets. Adventurous passengers can enjoy a guided bike ride along the Danube, followed by a visit to Schönbrunn Palace Christmas Market.

    Choose from a variety of activities to enjoy on your cruise

    “imperial Vienna” Tour with Christmas Markets •Vienna City Tour by Bike •Schðnbrunn Christmas Markets


  • Budapest blends fairytale architecture with festive cheer

    Budapest, Hungary

    Enjoy the best of Budapest, from Castle Hill’s fairytale turrets to the glittering Christmas markets along the Danube

    Explore both the Buda and Pest sides of Budapest, starting in the Castle District to admire Fisherman’s Bastion, Matthias Church, and panoramic city views. Visit the festive Christmas Markets or hike up Castle Hill for a more active experience. In the afternoon, discover Pest’s highlights, including the Hungarian Parliament Building, Heroes’ Square, and the poignant “Shoes on the Danube Bank” memorial.

    Choose from a variety of activities to enjoy on your cruise

    Buda City Tour and Christmas Markets •Castle hike •Pest city tour

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Deluxe Stateroom

Add your pricing strategy. Be sure to include important details like value, length of service, and why it’s unique.

Prices begin at $2265 per person for two travelers in a category E stateroom on deck 1.

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Panorama Stateroom

Add your pricing strategy. Be sure to include important details like value, length of service, and why it’s unique.

Prices begin at $3,008.00 per person for two travelers in a category P stateroom on deck 3.

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Royal Stateroom

Add your pricing strategy. Be sure to include important details like value, length of service, and why it’s unique.

All Royal Staterooms are sold out for this cruise, but you can be added to a waitlist if you are interested.

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What’s Included with AmaWaterways

Avalon Waterways has redefined cruising by going against the current and away from the ordinary. Delivering unparalleled experiences and boundless exploration. Avalon puts you in the captain's seat to navigate your journey, fuel your passions and steer clear of the unexpected as you cruise down the world's most memorable and mesmerizing waterways. One step aboard our modern, luxurious Suite Ships with the grandest views in cruising and you'll see how the tides they are a-changin'.

Dining

Chef-prepared onboard meals with regional cuisine and familiar favorites

  • Seasonal cuisine featuring the freshest local ingredients

  • Avalon Fresh® healthy cuisine options at every meal

  • Spacious, open-seating Panorama Dining Room

  • Daily breakfast buffet with full range of classic breakfast items, healthy Avalon Fresh® options and daily a la carte specials

  • Complimentary room service for Continental breakfast, lunch, and dinner

  • Daily lunch buffet featuring regional specialties, classic dishes, healthy Avalon Fresh® options and rotating chef’s features including carving & pasta stations. Alternatively, you may dine al fresco at our Sky Grill on the Sky Deck (weather and itinerary permitting) or enjoy a light lunch in the Panorama Lounge.

  • Afternoon Tea featuring tea, coffee, and sweet treats

  • Four-course dinners with choice of appetizers, soups, salads, entrées and desserts or cheese

  • Linger over several selections from the Panorama Bistro's tasting menu for a less formal "sit-down" atmosphere

  • Complimentary wine, beer, or soft drinks with lunch and dinner

  • Avalon FlexDining® flexible dining times with menu & venue options 

  • Vegetarian options at every meal, as well as vegan, low calorie, low fat, high fiber, low cholesterol, high energy and allergy-free selections

  • Panorama Lounge & Bar with premium spirits, cozy seating, panoramic windows & dance floor

  • Welcome & farewell cocktails with sparkling wine & canapés

  • New in 2023 - included Happy Hour every evening featuring house beer, wine, cocktails and a drink of the day

  • Cocktails with a view on the Sky Deck

  • Specialty coffees, espresso drinks and beWell Essence flavored and infused water available throughout each day

Activities

Active shore excursions, both included and optional

  • Fitness Center

  • Avalon Adventure Center
    Your place for active gear* and activities through your Avalon Adventure HostSM, including:

    • Bikes

    • Maps for hiking, biking and jogging routes

    • Canoe and kayak excursions

    • Fitbits®

    • Walking Sticks

    • Binoculars

    • Daypacks

    • Yoga Mats

    • Fitness bands

Suite Fleet

Complimentary Starlink Wi-Fi throughout the ship

  • 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