Join me on my next adventure!
Step Into the Magic of Europe’s Most Enchanting Season
There’s no better way to embrace the holiday spirit than a festive river cruise through Europe’s most charming Christmas markets. Picture yourself gliding along the legendary Danube, greeted by the scent of spiced glühwein and the sparkle of centuries-old Christmas markets.
From Vienna’s glittering boulevards to the storybook squares of Regensburg, Passau, and Nuremberg, every port welcomes you with festive traditions, cozy nooks, and twinkling lights.
Settle in to Avalon’s signature luxury- panoramic suites, gourmet holiday fare, and personalized touches—while the Danube becomes your pathway to Europe’s most heartwarming season.
Spots are limited for this once-in-a-lifetime celebration. Secure your suite now for an unforgettable December voyage, and let Avalon Waterways carry you into the wonder of Christmas.
The Itinerary
Embarkation - Nuremberg, Germany
Overnight docking in Nuremberg, Germany
Nuremberg, Germany
Regensberg, Germany
Passau, Germany
Melk, Austria
Scenic sailing in the Wachau Valley
Overnight in Vienna, Austria
Vienna, Austria
Overnight in Vienna, Austria
Debarkation - Vienna, Austria
Trip Overview
Christmastime on the Danube, Nuremberg - Vienna
December 9 - 15, 2027
Day 1 – Thursday, December 9, 2027: Arrival in Nuremberg, Germany
Welcome to Nuremberg! Upon arrival, settle into your accommodations and begin exploring the city's historic architecture and festive holiday decorations. Consider visiting local Christmas markets or enjoying a some Nuremberg sausages - they are a local favorite!
Day 2 – Friday, December 10, 2027: Nuremberg, Germany
Choose a Classic Excursion Guided Tour of Nuremberg’s medieval architecture, gilded fountain, Gothic cathedral, and Kaiserburg Castle, OR:
Join a Classic Excursion 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.
Day 3 – Saturday, December 11, 2027: Regensberg, Germany
Choose a Classic Excursion Guided City Walk and see Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall) and Porta Pretoria—entrance to the Castra Regina fortress built in 179 AD.
Take time to browse Regensburg’s sparkling Christmas markets. Enjoy hot-mulled wine, candied almonds, gingerbread, or bratwurst.
OR:
Enjoy a Christmas Traditions Lecture on board.
Day 4 – Sunday, December 12, 2027: Passau, Germany
Choose a Classic Excursion Guided City Walk to learn more about this beautiful “City of Three Rivers.”
OR:
You may like to join a Guided Optional Excursion to Salzburg, Austria. See the setting of The Sound of Music, and learn the story behind the beloved Christmas hymn, Silent Night.
Spend free time in Passau’s charming Christkindlesmarkt near magnificent St. Stephen’s Cathedral.
Take a brief evening cruise to Linz.
Day 5 – Monday, December 13, 2027: Melk, Austria - Vienna
Choose a Classic Excursion Guided Tour of Melk’s magnificent Benedictine Abbey to marvel at its frescoed ceilings
AND
Enjoy a Discovery Excursion Austrian Cookie Tasting while sailing through the splendid Wachau Valley to Vienna.
Vienna’s Winter Wonderland!
This evening, you may choose to attend an Optional Excursion to a Royal Waltz Concert for an unforgettable evening of music in an elegant hall.
Day 6 – Tuesday, December 14, 2027: Vienna, Austria
Enjoy a Discovery Excursion Exploring 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 this evening.
You may join a Guided Optional Tour of Schönbrunn Palace—summer home of the Habsburg dynasty for 300 years.
Day 7 – Wednesday, December 15, 2027: Disembark in Vienna
Your cruise ends with breakfast this morning.
Included in the Group River Cruise Rates
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Luxury Accommodations - Relax in your well-appointed stateroom, complete with daily bottled water, complimentary WiFi, and thoughtful amenities designed for your comfort.
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All-Inclusive Dining – Enjoy full-board gourmet dining, from early riser options to an omelette-station breakfast buffet, indulgent lunches, and multi-course dinners with choice entrées, plus complimentary coffee, tea, and iced water at every meal.
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Choice of Guided Tours in Every Port – Discover each destination with immersive shore excursions led by expert local guides.
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Sip & Savor – Beer and wine are included with lunch and dinner; Happy Hour with select cocktails each evening; Unlimited mimosas served with breakfast; 24-hour coffee and tea station for whenever you need a warm-up.
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Gratuities Included – Tips for the onboard crew and staff are covered, so there’s no awkward guesswork.
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Port Charges & Local Taxes Covered – What you see is what you pay—no surprises at checkout.
