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Christmas Markets on the River Danube Itinerary
Day 1 - UK - Budapest (Hungary)
Fly from the UK to Budapest and embark your ship. This evening, join your fellow travellers for a traditional Hungarian dinner. Later, enjoy a Hungarian folk dancing and music performance on board and evening cruise. (D)
Day 2 - Budapest
Budapest is Eastern Europe’s liveliest and most cosmopolitan city. Enjoy a guided tour of the city sights including the Hungarian Parliament Building, the Buda Castle and the Chain Bridge linking Buda and Pest or opt for an active walk to Buda Hill. During your free time, head to the main square near Váci Utca Street and stroll through Budapest's incredible Christmas Markets. (B,L,D)
Day 3 - Bratislava (Austria)
Explore Bratislava on a guided tour of the Old Town which is home to many historical buildings including the magnificent Mirbach Palace, impressive Gothic cathedral of St Martin and Michael’s Gate, one of the oldest of the town’s structures. Bratislava has charming Christmas Markets dotted throughout the city which can be explored at leisure. Later, enjoy a special afternoon tea with a local Slovakian family. (B,L,D)
Day 4 - Vienna
In the lovely city of Vienna, enjoy a drive along the Ringstrasse, where you will see the sights of Vienna’s world–famous attractions such as the Opera House, Burgtheater, St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the Hofburg Imperial Palace. Explore the wonderful Christmas markets of Vienna which are set up in 15 different squares in the city during your free time. This evening there is an optional exclusive Viennese concert available with music from Mozart and Strauss. (B,L,D)
Day 5 - Dürnstein - Melk
Discover the enchanting village of Durnstein in the Wachau wine region. This is the site of the castle where Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned after returning from the crusades in the 12th century. Then, enjoy a drive through the picturesque landscape of this district to the 900–year old Benedictine Abbey of Melk, which features Austria’s finest Italian baroque architecture. There are two EmeraldActive excursions - a guided bike tour along the Danube from Melk to Durnstein, and a guided hike to Durnstein Castle. (B,L,D)
Day 6 - Passau (Germany)
Cobblestone streets and graceful arcades welcome you in the beautiful city of Passau. On this morning’s walking tour, stroll through the old town’s narrow alleys and see the hilltop Oberhaus Fortress from the town below. Visit St. Stephen’s Cathedral, a wonderful example of Baroque architecture and home to Europe’s largest church organ with more than 17,000 pipes. Then spend time at the annual Christmas market, or Christkindlmarkt, which takes place in front of the St. Stephen's Cathedral and features more than 70 gingerbread-like stalls. There is also an optional excursion to Salzburg. (B,L,D)
Day 7 - Regensburg
This morning, you'll cruise to Regensburg, one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Germany. Join the guided walking tour, during which you'll have the chance to see the city's stunning architecture and one of the oldest bridges crossing the Danube. Then, visit one of the loveliest’ Christmas market of the German-speaking countries where you can savour a mug of delicious Glühwein and treat yourself to homemade gingerbread and cookies. (B,L,D)
Day 8 - Nuremberg - Munich - UK
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight home. (B)
Due to navigation reasons, the Captain reserves the right to modify the itinerary.