Destination:
Austria,
Germany,
Hungary,
Duration:
8 days
Style:
River/Small ship/Barge,
Travel Period:
December 2028 - December 2028
Gallery
5+ Gallery Photos
7-night from Nuremberg to Budapest
Travel back through centuries as you walk along cobblestone streets through grand cities and historic towns bedecked with twinkling Christmas trees and lined with wooden huts gleaming with handcrafted treasures. Iconic Christmas Markets are plentiful and are on full display for your pleasure. Nuremberg’s festive Christkindlesmarkt, the largest and oldest Christmas Market in Germany; Regensburg’s Artisan Christmas Market at Thurn and Taxis Castle, considered one of Bavaria’s most beautiful and romantic; Vienna with its impressive Christmas Markets that seem to majestically appear around every corner; and Budapest, where products sold in the market are traditionally handmade. Revel in a feast for the senses: sparkling lights; festive sounds of children dressed as angels singing carols; and enticing smells of hot-mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, sausages and sweet treats of every kind.What's Included
- Arrive in Nuremberg and embark on your ship, marking the start of your immersive journey through Germany’s cozy Christmas festivities.
- Explore Nuremberg’s WWII landmarks before strolling the cobblestone streets to the Imperial Castle and 900-year-old city ramparts. As a Smithsonian Journeys exclusive, your WWII walking tour concludes with a meaningful visit to Courtroom 600. Then, immerse yourself in the famed Christkindlesmarkt or spend the morning wandering its festive stalls. Food lovers can savor Nuremberg sausages and beer at the City Brewery before crossing the Continental Divide on the Main–Danube Canal.
- Discover Regensburg on a guided walking tour featuring architectural icons like the Old Town Hall and Porta Praetoria. As a Smithsonian Journeys exclusive, enjoy special access to the Walhalla and Thurn & Taxis Castle, a neoclassical temple inspired by ancient Greece. Explore the Old Town Christmas Market, sample Bavarian specialties, or bike along the Danube to Walhalla. At the Thurn and Taxis Christmas Market, watch local artisans bring traditional crafts to life.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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. As a Smithsonian Journeys Exclusive, enjoy a guided tour of the Kunsthalle Museum and 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.
- Ascend Castle Hill for a guided stroll through the charming Buda district, including Dózsa György Square and Fisherman’s Bastion, and, as a Smithsonian Journeys Exclusive, enjoy a private concert at the former home of Franz Liszt. In Pest, admire the grand Parliament building and browse festive market squares filled with Hungarian crafts, strudel, and warm holiday grog. Alternatively, join a Smithsonian Journeys Exclusive Jewish heritage walking tour to Europe’s largest synagogue and the poignant Shoes on the Danube memorial. Conclude your holiday journey with a festive farewell dinner.
- Bid farewell to Budapest and prepare for your journey home.
Your Itinerary
Day 1 - Nuremberg
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Day 2 - Nuremberg
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Day 3 - Regensburg
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Day 4 - Passau
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Day 5 - Melk
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Day 6 - Vienna
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Day 7 - Budapest
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Day 8 - Budapest
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Dates & Pricing
Select your preferred date or enquire
Why book with RACT Travel?
Travel Partner
AmaWaterways is a premier river cruise line offering luxurious journeys through Europe, Asia, Africa, and South America. Known for exceptional service and innovative ship designs, they provide unforgettable travel experiences