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Holiday Markets and the Danube
by Luxury River Ship

  • December 9 – December 17, 2026
  • Pre-Tour: December 7 – December 10, 2026
  • Post-Tour: December 17 – December 19, 2026

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overview

Christmas in Central Europe is a special time. Holiday lights twinkle, carolers spread yuletide cheer, age-old traditions ring bright and artisanal goods overflow at bustling markets. This holiday season cruise the picturesque Danube aboard the sophisticated River Crown, exploring the grand highlights of Germany and Austria. Experience a wonderful mix of the region's historic and cultural diversity, witness stunning scenery and visit charming towns and villages—each adorned with festive decorations.

tour map

tour highlights

– Bask in seven nights deluxe accommodations onboard River Crown, a recently renovated river ship (maximum capacity of only 112 guests).

– Stroll through Nuremberg's quaint town center plus see the Imperial Castle and its fortified buildings.

– Discover Regensburg's charming Old Town—a UNESCO World Heritage Site—then stop for a satisfying sausage demonstration and tasting.

– Tour Melk's Baroque Benedictine Abbey admiring its astonishing collection of medieval manuscripts, beautiful frescoes and spectacular views over the Danube.

– Enjoy a private organ concert in Dürnstein.

– Explore Vienna during guided panoramic touring and an inside visit to St. Stephen's Cathedral.

– Take advantage of leisure time to peruse a variety of colorful Christmas markets throughout the journey.

day-by-day itinerary

Day 1: En Route from U.S.
Day 2: Arrive in Nuremberg, Germany – Embarkation
Day 3: Nuremberg
Day 4: Regensburg
Day 5: Passau
Day 6: Linz, Austria
Day 7: Melk | Dürnstein
Day 8: Vienna
Day 9: Vienna – Disembarkation | Depart for U.S.

Inclusions

  • 7 nights aboard the exclusively chartered River Crown
  • All onboard hand-crafted meals: 7 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 7 dinners (served with quality red and white varietals from Europe's famous wine regions, draft beer or soft drinks) plus special welcome and farewell receptions
  • Unlimited tea and coffee is available 24/7 in the ship's lobby
  • Private tours and special small-group excursions as noted in the 9-day itinerary
  • Port fees
  • Private motor coach transportation
  • Luggage handling
  • Gratuities to ship crew, Orbridge Travel Director, local guides, drivers, porters and wait staff for included meals
  • Group airport transfers for guests arriving and departing during the suggested times

optional pre-tour

Berlin

Discover the splendor of Berlin during the holidays featuring visits to the area's notable monuments plus time to enjoy the colorful Christmas market.

Activity Level: 3

Inclusions

  • 2 nights hotel accommodations
  • 2 breakfasts and 1 lunch
  • Guided panoramic tour of Berlin
  • Transportation for included tours
  • Rail transportation between Berlin and Nuremberg
  • Luggage porterage
  • Gratuities to Orbridge Travel Director, local guide, drivers, porters and wait staff for included meals
  • Airport transfers for guests arriving during the suggested times

optional post-tour

Vienna

Extend your holiday adventures in Vienna with additional time to indulge in local treats and colorful hand-crafted items on display among rows of wooden huts at the renowned Christmas market.

Activity Level: 3

Inclusions

  • 2 nights hotel accommodations with breakfast each morning
  • 2 guided palace tours including admission
  • Transportation for included tours
  • Luggage porterage
  • Gratuities to Orbridge Travel Director, local guide, driver, porters and wait staff for included meals
  • Airport transfers for guests departing during the suggested times

Travel Insurance

We recommend you look into travel insurance immediately after making your deposit. It's important to note that some coverage can be linked to timing of your initial payment.

Orbridge's travel insurance partner, Redpoint, has a specific policy option to meet your needs. Visit redpointtravelprotection.com/partner/orbridgecavalry for a quote and more information. To speak with a Redpoint agent directly, call (415) 481-0610 and their team will be glad to assist.