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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. Tonight, there is a traditional Hungarian folklore show. (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. 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. Perhaps join the optional Tastes of Vienna tour. This evening there is an optional exclusive Viennese concert available with music from Mozart and Strauss. (B,L,D)
Day 5 - Dürnstein - Melk
Relax on board this morning as we sail through one of the most charming wine regions in Europe and on to Dürnstein. This is the site where Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned following his return from the Third Crusade in the 12th century. Later, return to your Star-Ship and enjoy the luscious amenities on board until we reach Melk, where an illustrious tour of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Melk Abbey awaits. This 900-year-old Baroque palace features some of Austria’s finest Italian Baroque architecture. (B,L,D)
Day 6 - Passau (Germany)
Cobblestone streets and graceful arcades welcome you in the beautiful city of Passau. On today’s walking tour, stroll through the old town’s narrow alleys and see the hilltop Oberhaus Fortress from the town below. See 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 an optional tour to the Bavarian Forest. (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 markets of the German-speaking countries where you can savour a mug of delicious Glühwein and treat yourself to homemade gingerbread and cookies. Enjoy a traditional Bavarian performance. (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.