Experience a magical 14-day journey from Prague to Munich, exploring the festive Christmas markets along the Danube. Wander through Prague’s charming market stalls, enjoy the holiday cheer in picturesque towns, and soak up the winter spirit in Munich, the perfect end to your seasonal European adventure.
Explore Neuschwanstein Castle, King Ludwig II’s fairytale palace set high in the Bavarian Alps. Said to have inspired Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle, tour its richly decorated rooms inspired by medieval legends and take in sweeping views over forests, lakes and mountains from one of Germany’s most iconic landmarks.
Experience the magic of Europe’s Christmas markets as you sample festive treats along the Danube. Sip warming mulled wine in Regensburg, taste traditional Hungarian sweets in Budapest and savour Nuremberg’s famous Lebkuchen gingerbread, all while soaking up the seasonal atmosphere.
As you cruise the Rhine–Main–Danube Canal, join a special onboard presentation exploring European Christmas traditions. Learn the stories behind festive customs, seasonal foods, decorations and markets, gaining deeper insight into how the Christmas season is celebrated across the region.
Be met at the airport and transfer to your hotel in the historic centre of Prague. Later this evening, you’ll have the chance to get to know your fellow travellers and Tour Director at a Welcome Reception.
Your exploration of Prague begins with a tour of the World Heritage-listed Old Town. Start at Strahov Monastery for panoramic views across the city, then cross the historic Charles Bridge to Old Town Square. See the famous Astronomical Clock on the Old Town Hall and enjoy free time to explore at your own pace. Later, visit a local cafe to warm up with hot chocolate and a traditional Czech Christmas cake. This evening, you may wish to join an optional folklore dinner and show.
Enhance Your Journey – Folklore Dinner and Show
Travel to a local restaurant and enjoy a lively evening of traditional Czech cuisine, music and dancing.
Today is at leisure to explore Prague at your own pace. You may wish to visit the historic Jewish Quarter, home to centuries of Jewish heritage and closely associated with writer Franz Kafka, or simply wander the city’s charming streets and cafes. Alternatively, you may choose to join an optional excursion.
Enhance Your Journey – Prague Castle
Cross the Vltava River to Prague Castle, which dominates the city skyline. Dating back to the 9th century, this vast complex of palaces, courtyards and churches is among the largest castle complexes in the world. Join a local guide to explore highlights including St Vitus Cathedral and Golden Lane.
Farewell Prague after breakfast as you board your coach and head to Budapest to board your river ship. Tonight, enjoy a Welcome Reception with your fellow travellers.
Awake to views of one of the Danube’s most enchanting cities this morning. Disembark and discover Budapest on a guided tour with a local expert, visiting a range of the city’s most impressive sights.
Insider Experience – Budapest Christmas Market
Get into the festive spirit with a visit to the charming Christmas market in front of St Stephen’s Basilica, where you can sample traditional seasonal treats.
Take in Vienna’s Ringstrasse, plus enjoy a visit to St Stephen’s Cathedral. Afterwards, wander through the Christmas markets and perhaps pick up a souvenir or two. As the scent of mulled wine and gingerbread fills the wintry air, you’ll come to realise that the festive season in Europe is nothing short of magical.
Disembark in the town of Dürnstein, where you may wish to walk up to the hilltop ruins of the castle where King Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned. Later, cruise through the scenic Wachau Valley to Melk. Take a tour through Melk Abbey, an active Benedictine monastery since 1089.
Today you may choose to join an optional excursion to Český Krumlov in the Czech Republic or visit Salzburg. Alternatively, enjoy a relaxing day sailing to Linz.
Insider Experience – Bavarian Experience
Tonight, enjoy a traditional Bavarian experience on board. Sample delicious local beer and snacks, accompanied by traditional folk music, song and dance.
Enhance your Journey - Český Krumlov
Enjoy a fascinating excursion to the historic city of Český Krumlov, home to more than 300 preserved historic buildings and a charming medieval centre.
Enhance your Journey – Salzburg Sights
Travel through Austria’s scenic countryside to Mondsee, where you may recognise the famous wedding church from The Sound of Music. Continue to Salzburg for a guided tour of the town Mozart once called home, then enjoy free time to explore at leisure before returning to your ship.
Dock in Regensburg this morning and set out on a guided walking tour. Wander cobblestone lanes and step back in time as you explore historic streets, medieval buildings and cultural landmarks. This evening, enjoy a Captain’s Farewell Dinner.
Insider Experience – Regensburg Christmas Market
Visit the festive Christmas market and soak up the seasonal atmosphere while enjoying a warming mug of mulled wine.
Take a city tour of Nuremberg this afternoon, once the site of Hitler’s infamous rallies. Wander the cobblestone streets and browse local boutiques and artisan stores. Later, return to your ship and cruise along the Main–Danube Canal, crossing Europe’s Continental Divide via its impressive stair-step locks.
Insider Experience – Nuremberg Christmas Market
Visit the city’s famous Christmas market and enjoy a traditional Lebkuchen gingerbread treat while soaking up the festive atmosphere.
Insider Experience – European Christmas Traditions
This evening, join an onboard presentation to learn about festive traditions and celebrations in Germany and across Europe.
After breakfast, board a coach and travel to Munich and check in to your hotel.
Enjoy a guided tour of Munich, the Bavarian capital often regarded as one of Germany’s most beautiful cities. See the famous Glockenspiel in the New Town Hall on Marienplatz and explore the historic city centre, home to the iconic Frauenkirche. The afternoon is yours to relax or continue exploring. This evening, enjoy a special dinner.
Enjoy a special Insider Experience today.
Insider Experience – Neuschwanstein Castle
Visit Neuschwanstein Castle, nestled in the heart of the Bavarian Alps. Said to have inspired Walt Disney’s Sleeping Beauty Castle, it is surrounded by dramatic mountains, forests and lakes. Inside, admire richly decorated rooms adorned with vibrant murals and romantic detail.
Your adventure comes to an end today with a transfer to the airport for your onward flight.
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