There’s something magical about Europe at Christmastime!
Christmas Markets are one of the trips I look forward to most, and I’m pretty picky about which sailings I choose to host. I look carefully at the itinerary, timing, markets, and overall pace because I want the trip to feel festive and fun, not rushed.
The timing matters, too. We’ll travel early in the Christmas season, when the markets have just opened and everything feels fresh and festive, but we’ll still be home with plenty of time before Christmas.
River cruising is such an easy way to experience the markets. Unpack once, wake up somewhere new, spend your days exploring, and come back to a warm ship at the end of the day. Just leave a little extra room in your suitcase for everything you swear you weren’t going to buy.
Solo travelers are always welcome. I often travel solo myself, so don’t let not having a travel partner keep you from joining us. You’ll be part of the group from the beginning and will likely come home with some new travel friends
Picture cobblestone squares glowing with lights, wooden stalls filled with handmade ornaments, the smell of gingerbread and roasted nuts, and centuries-old buildings decorated for Christmas.
Over eight days, we’ll travel from Budapest to Nuremberg, experiencing the markets, foods, and Christmas traditions of Hungary, Austria, and Germany, all while unpacking just once.
Take a look at where we’re going...
Welcome to Hungary.
Please plan on arriving at least one day prior to boarding. I will have a block of rooms at a local boutique hotel at an extra cost. Flights are not included in the cruise price.
With a free day to explore before your cruise, take time to take photographs on the Royal Palace grounds in this treasure trove of historical architecture. Enjoy the warmth and glow of Christmas tradition before boarding your ship.
EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO VIENNA
Vienna Waltzes on the Beautiful Blue Danube
Enjoy a relaxing day on board sailing the Danube, which shares dozens of miles with Hungary and Slovakia and see the rolling landscape and red-rooftops of the Slovakian capital of Bratislava come into view.
Discovery Excursion-
Enjoy an Austrian Cookie Tasting while sailing to Vienna.
Arrive this evening in Vienna, where you may choose to join an Optional Excursion to attend a Royal Waltz Concert for an unforgettable evening of music in an elegant hall.
OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN VIENNA
Royal Collections and Amusing Attractions
Discovery Excursion-
Explore the city of Vienna and sample local winter specialties on a Guided Walk through the city’s Old Town and Christmas markets,
OR:
Classic Excursion-
Explore the Habsburg empire this morning on a Guided City Tour of Vienna’s gilded landmarks. See the Imperial Palace complex—the winter residence of the Imperial Family, the iconic Vienna Opera House and stunning St. Stephen’s Cathedral.
Spend free time on your own to enjoy the Christkindlesmarkt, or relax by the fire’s glow in a Viennese café.
Join a Guided Optional Excursion to Schönbrunn Palace— summer home of the Habsburg Empire.
Later, enjoy live entertainment on board.
OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO KREMS
Christmas Magic in the Austria’s Wine Country
Classic Excursion-
Join a Guided Walk to explore this small valley town, seemingly untouched by the new world.
During lunchtime, sail through the picturesque Wachau Valley to Melk.
MELK
Frescoes Above and Vineyards Below
Classic Excursion-
Take a Guided Tour of Melk’s magnificent Benedictine Abbey to marvel at its frescoed ceilings, statues, incredible library, and ornate pipe organ.
EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO PASSAU
Where the Danube, Inn, and Ilz Rivers Meet
Classic Excursion-
Join a Guided City Walk to learn more about this beautiful “City of Three Rivers.”
Later spend some free time in Passau’s charming Christkindlesmarkt near magnificent St. Stephen’s Cathedral.
Alternatively, join a full-day Guided Optional Excursion to Salzburg—the city of Mozart and learn how Austrians celebrate Christmas.
Meet your ship back in Passau after your full-day selected activity for sailing.
EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO REGENSBURG
Christmas Magic in Bavaria
Classic Excursion-
Join a Guided City Walk and see Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall) and Porta Pretoria—built in 179 AD as the entrance to Castra Regina fortress.
Take time to browse Regensburg’s sparkling Christmas markets. Enjoy hot-mulled wine, candied almonds, gingerbread, or bratwurst.
Discovery Excursion-
Join a gingerbread Cooking Demonstration on board your ship.
This evening, enjoy live entertainment after dinner.
EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO NUREMBERG
Legends and History Lessons
Discovery Excursion-
Enjoy a Christmas Traditions Lecture on board.
Classic Excursion-
Choose a Guided Sightseeing of Nuremberg—with its medieval architecture, gilded fountain, Gothic cathedral, and Kaiserburg Castle,
OR:
Classic Excursion-
Take a Guided Tour of the historic Nuremberg Rally Grounds—used by the Third Reich.
Spend free time on your own to browse the spruce stalls of the Christmas Markets of Nuremberg. Sample favorite Bavarian fare—from dozens of bratwurst varieties, gingerbread, mulled blueberry wine, and countless other culinary delights of the Christkindlesmarkt.
OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN NUREMBERG
Your cruise ends with breakfast this morning.
2028 Group Pricing | Per Person | Double Occupancy
Group pricing for this 8-day European Christmas markets river cruise starts at $4,951 per person, based on double occupancy.
Balcony cabins: $7,050–$7350 per person, based on location.
These are French balconies.*
Single occupancy: Starting at $8,476, with very limited availability.
(This ship does not offer triple or quad occupancy rooms.)
Deposit & Payment Plan
A $500 per person deposit secures your cabin. $250 of the deposit is non-refundable. In some circumstances, Avalon may allow the deposit to be transferred to another sailing, subject to their terms at the time of the change.
Optional Payment Plan:
After the deposit, the remaining balance is divided into 4-8 scheduled payments, no interest, no fees charged for the payment plan.
*French balcony cabins feature floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors that open for fresh air and beautiful views, but do not include an outdoor sitting area. You still enjoy natural light, scenery, and fresh air without stepping outside.
What is included in the cruise fare?
The cruise fare includes all meals, Wi-Fi, gratuities, all standard guided shore excursions, drinks at lunch, dinner, and happy hour (mocktails, wine, beer, and soft drinks), and coffee, tea, hot chocolate, fruit-infused water, and snacks available 24/7.
Are excursions included?
Yes. Most days typically include 1–2 guided excursions at no additional cost. Excursions labeled as Discovery and Classic are included. Optional excursions may be offered for an additional fee.
For this cruise, one optional excursion offered is to Salzburg. I would HIGHLY recommend doing this excursion. It is one of my favorite cities in the world.
Is travel protection required?
Travel protection is not required, but I strongly recommend it. Unexpected illness, flight disruptions, lost luggage, or a medical emergency overseas can become very expensive very quickly.
If you choose to decline travel protection, you’ll be asked to sign a waiver confirming your decision for my records.
Pre-existing conditions are only covered if insurance is purchased withing 14 days of deposit.
I am not a licensed insurance agent and cannot advise you on which policy or coverage is right for you, but I can point you in the right direction. See next section for more details.
What cabin options are available?
Cabins are single or double occupancy only. There are no triple or quad occupancy options on this ship. Lower Deck cabins have a fixed window positioned high on the wall. French Balcony cabins on the second and third decks feature full-height sliding windows that open for fresh air. Scroll down further to see more about Avalon Waterways.
What are the bed configurations?
Cabins are set up with one queen bed or two twin beds for friends traveling together. Please share your preference at booking.
What is dining like on a river cruise?
River cruise dining follows European standards and is different from ocean cruising. There is one main restaurant with meals served at set times. Breakfast is a buffet with a few set menu items. Lunch is served as a buffet or plated meal, and on some days a lighter buffet may be available in the lounge. Dinner is a five-course, sit-down meal each evening.
What is the dress code onboard?
The dress code is smart casual. Jeans, sweaters, and comfortable shoes are perfectly acceptable. There is no formal night.
Is airfare included?
No. Airfare is not included in the cruise price. Please plan to arrive in Budapest at least one day before the cruise. This gives you a buffer in case of flight delays or other travel disruptions and helps ensure you don’t miss embarkation.
Can you help with flights?
Yes. I will suggest flight options from your local airport once flights become available, approximately 11 months before departure. The group will meet in Budapest. For budgeting purposes, I recommend planning on approximately $1,400 per person for round-trip airfare, but actual pricing will depend on your departure city and fares available at the time.
I’m traveling solo. What are my options?
Solo travelers are welcome! If you have another traveler you'd like to share a cabin with, double-occupancy cabins are available. Single-occupancy cabins are also available in very limited numbers. Single pricing is typically close to double the per-person rate, minus some taxes and fees. Please contact me directly to discuss current solo availability and pricing.
When should I book?
Group pricing is locked in, and deposits are now being accepted. Lower-priced cabins are limited and will sell out, usually a year in advance or more. Booking sooner gives you the best chance of securing your preferred cabin category.
Travel is an investment, and I strongly encourage every traveler to consider travel protection. Unexpected illness, flight disruptions, lost luggage, or a medical issue while traveling can turn into a very expensive problem very quickly.
You have several options for coverage:
- Purchase travel protection through Avalon. Their plan is more expensive than some other options, but it offers very robust coverage.
- Purchase a policy independently. I have affiliate links available where you can compare and purchase travel protection at no additional cost to you.
- Check the credit card you use to pay for your trip. Some cards include certain travel insurance benefits, but coverage varies quite a bit, so be sure you understand exactly what is and is not included.
One thing that is especially important for international travel: many U.S. health insurance plans provide limited or no coverage outside the United States. Please check directly with your health insurance provider before assuming you’re covered overseas.
I am not a licensed insurance agent and cannot recommend a specific policy or advise you on which coverage is right for you. I can provide options and resources, but the decision about what coverage to purchase is yours.
And if you’re wondering whether travel protection really matters, I have stories. These aren’t hypothetical situations. They’re things that have happened to my own clients while traveling:
AVALON TRAVEL PROTECTION DETAILS:
Travel Protection Pricing
*$269.00 per person for vacations up to $2,500.00
*$359.00 per person for vacations $2,501.00 - $4,000.00
*$479.00 per person for vacations $4,001.00 - $6,000.00
*$519.00 per person for vacations $6,001.00 and up
Pre-existing conditions included when purchased within 14 days of initial deposit. Travel Protection rate is calculated off the base rate of your cruise. Travel Protection rates may increase with additional extensions or upgrades.
For detailed terms, conditions and exclusions as applicable to your state of residence, visit Arch Insurance through Globus.
Avalon river cruises are designed for comfort and ease, with well-appointed cabins, relaxed dining, and a small-ship atmosphere. Below are the cabin categories available for this sailing.
172 sq. ft.
Room Features:
- Writing desk and chair
- Easy under-bed luggage storage
- Egyptian super-combed cotton linens
- Elegant, contemporary design
- Spacious 3-door closets with shelves for ample storage
- Alarm clock
- One Queen-Sized Bed or Two Twins
- Full shower with glass door
- Soft & firm pillows
- Large mirror in bathroom
- Direct-dial telephone
- L'Occitane bath products
- USB Ports
- Lighted makeup mirror
- Choice of bed configuration
- Bedside tables with reading lamps
- Bathrobes & slippers
- In-room safe
- Comfort Collection Beds
- Well-stocked minibar
- Luxurious mattress toppers
- Complimentary filtered water
- Nightly turn-down service
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- Flatscreen satellite TV with English-speaking channels & over 50 free movie options
- Extra blankets
- European-style duvets
- Individual climate control
- Premium Hairdryer
- Two windows, fixed (do not open)
200 sq. ft.
Room Features:
- Writing desk and chair
- Easy under-bed luggage storage
- Egyptian super-combed cotton linens
- Elegant, contemporary design
- Spacious 3-door closets with shelves for ample storage
- 6-person sitting area w/couch
- One Queen-Sized Bed or Two Twins
- Full shower with glass door
- Soft & firm pillows
- Coffee table
- L'Occitane bath products
- USB Ports
- Lighted makeup mirror
- Choice of bed configuration
- Bedside tables with reading lamps
- Bathrobes & slippers
- Sofa
- In-room safe
- Comfort Collection Beds
- Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Window with Open-Air Balcony
- Marble countertops in bathroom
- Well-stocked minibar
- Make-up mirror
- Luxurious mattress toppers
- Complimentary filtered water
- Nightly turn-down service
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- Flatscreen satellite TV with English-speaking channels & over 50 free movie options
- Extra blankets
- European-style duvets
- Individual climate control
- Premium Hairdryer
300 sq. ft.
Room Features:
- Writing desk and chair
- Easy under-bed luggage storage
- Egyptian super-combed cotton linens
- Elegant, contemporary design
- Spacious 3-door closets with shelves for ample storage
- 6-person sitting area w/couch
- Full shower with glass door
- Soft & firm pillows
- Coffee table
- L'Occitane bath products
- USB Ports
- Lighted makeup mirror
- Choice of bed configuration
- Bedside tables with reading lamps
- Bathrobes & slippers
- Sofa
- In-room safe
- Comfort Collection Beds
- Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Window with Open-Air Balcony
- Marble countertops in bathroom
- Well-stocked minibar
- Make-up mirror
- Luxurious mattress toppers
- Complimentary filtered water
- Nightly turn-down service
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- Flatscreen satellite TV with English-speaking channels & over 50 free movie options
- Extra blankets
- European-style duvets
- Individual climate control
- Premium Hairdryer
- One King-Sized Bed or Two Twins
- Double sinks
- Complimentary Starlink Wi-Fi (Standard Wi-Fi where available in Asia)
- 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
- 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
- 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
- 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
- *Personal-use bikes and watercraft not available on Avalon AlegriaSM
- In the event of technical or water level issues, it may be necessary to operate the itinerary by motorcoach or alter the program, including hotel overnight when necessary.
- Guided Tours, Optional Excursions, activities, sailing and docking schedules may be contingent on weather conditions or other issues outside of our control and could therefore be subject to change at any time.
- While your trip includes a variety of excursions to choose from, you may also explore additional options to enhance your free time. We offer optional excursions for purchase, but there are plenty of included experiences available as well.