Your journey into wonder begins here. Relax and raise your glass to the days ahead at this evening's welcome reception.

Freechoice: Explore Nuremberg by foot on a guided walking tour, or visit moving WWII sites and learn about this dark time in the city’s history. Alternatively, you may choose to get into the Christmas spirit and try a gingerbread baking class.

Freechoice: Experience the true wonder of Christmas at the romantic and picturesque markets of Thurn und Taxis Palace. This magical setting will make you feel like you have entered a fairy tale with gently lit lanterns and candles providing a charming atmosphere. Or, enjoy a walking tour of Regensburg. Located on the confluence of three rivers, Regensburg is known as the best preserved medieval city in Germany.

Freechoice: Take an excursion to the medieval Czech city of Cesky Krumlov and discover its World Heritage-listed Old Town filled with magical Christmas cheer, or journey to Salzburg and explore the birthplace
of Mozart and the city backdrop for the movie ‘The Sound of Music’, followed by free time to visit Salzburg’s Christmas markets which date back to the 15th century.  Alternatively, stay on board your Scenic Space-Ship for a cooking demonstration of local recipes as you cruise between Passau and Linz.

Freechoice: Be guided through Melk’s magnificent 18th century Benedictine Abbey, or if you’re feeling more active, embark on a guided bike ride along the river from Melk to one of the most enchanting villages in the region, Dürnstein. Alternatively, meet a Schnapps producer and sample some of the many flavours on offer, or taste your way through the Wachau Valley delighting in many of the regional delicacies.

Later, spend the afternoon soaking up the wonderful Christmas atmosphere.

Freechoice: Take a guided tour of Schönbrunn Palace. Witness the sheer opulence of the Habsburg Empire and delight in the festive ambience at the market stalls that grace the palace courtyard. Alternatively, visit the Belvedere Museum, one of Europe’s most stunning Baroque landmarks, or discover a different side
of Vienna on a guided bicycle tour to Danube Island.

Later, explore the magical Viennese Christmas markets at your leisure. An age-old tradition, the forerunners of the present-day events date back to the Middle Ages when in 1298 Albrecht I granted Vienna’s citizens the privilege of holding a December Market or ‘Krippenmarkt’. Nowadays, over 20 official advent markets sell a vast array of seasonal gifts and mouth-watering treats.

Enrich
Breathe in the opulence and luxury of Palais Liechtenstein while enjoying a glass of fine Austrian Sekt. Then be enthralled by an enchanting private classical evening concert featuring the timeless music of Strauss and Mozart. Even in elegant Vienna, Palais Liechtenstein is one of the grandest of all venues. 

Today we find ourselves in Budapest, the capital of Hungary and one of Europe’s oldest and prettiest cities.

Freechoice: Make the most of a guided city tour including a piano concert. Alternatively, if you are feeling more active, hike to Buda Hill, or choose to travel to nearby Szentendre. Known for its museums, galleries and artists, you’ll have the opportunity to discover this charming town on a guided city tour.

Depart after breakfast. Budapest is the end of your cruise, but it will be the start of a lifetime of wonderful memories.

This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions.