Welcome to Vienna! You will be met and transferred from the airport to your Emerald Cruises contemporary Star-Ship. After boarding, enjoy some time at your leisure to explore Vienna.

During the holiday season, Vienna's most charming squares transform into magical Christmas markets. The smells of Christmas baking, hot punch and toasted chestnuts allure many visitors in this time of the year. The Old City and shopping streets are decorated with festive lights that create a Christmas atmosphere in Vienna.

Today, explore Austria’s capital beginning with a drive along the Ringstrasse, where we will see some of Vienna’s world–famous sights such as the Opera House, Burgtheater, Town Hall, St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the Hofburg Imperial Palace. Then, you will have free time to sample the wonderful tastes of the Christmas markets of Vienna, such Käsekrainer sausage, donuts, pretzels or Kartoffelpuffer.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Vienna

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Visit to Schönbrunn Palace (extra expense)

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Viennese evening concert (extra expense)

Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, is situated in a wonderful location between the Carpathians and the Alps, just a few kilometres from Vienna. Pre-Christmas time in Bratislava is intrinsically connected with glowing streets, warm holiday spirit, traditional dishes and drinks.  Enjoy a sightseeing tour including the enchanting Old City with its Town Hall, Mirbach Palace and the Gothic Cathedral of St Martin. Alternatively, join an active guided hike to Bratislava Castle. Bratislava also charming Christmas markets throughout the city, which you can enjoy. The main Christmas Market is located at the Main Square and Hviezdoslav Square but there are smaller ones in the city center as well, such as the square in front of the Eurovea shopping center. Whatever market you decide to venture into, irresistible smell and a unique atmosphere will get you for sure!

Included Excursion
Walking tour of Bratislava

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 an exciting hike on the Buda Hill. During your free time, stroll the Christmas market on Budapest’s main square near Váci Utca Street, which showcases Hungarian craft products such as glass blowing, knitting, wood carving, candle making, pottery, leather trade, traditional Hungarian embroidery and lace work, etc.

This evening, enjoy a traditional Hungarian dinner, then a Hungarian folk dancing and music performance on board.

As we stay overnight in Budapest, you will have plenty of time to discover the markets during late afternoon hours or join us on our DiscoverMore tour to Szentendre Island for one of Budapest’s most traditional markets with local art and crafts.

Included Excursion
Guided coach tour of Budapest

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Excursion to Szentendre (extra expense)

EmeraldPLUS
Traditional Hungarian Folklore Show

After breakfast, it is time to say farewell to your fellow guests and disembark the ship for your transfer to the airport for your onward or homebound flight, taking memories of the delightful Danube with you.

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 for further information.