Christmas Time on the Danube

Depart the USA on your overnight flight to Vienna, Austria.

Welcome to Vienna! You’ll be met at the airport by a member of our welcoming team and transferred to your Emerald Cruises contemporary Star-Ship. After boarding and settling in, you’ll have time to explore Vienna at your leisure.  Meal: D

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

Today, explore Austria’s capital beginning with a drive along the Ringstrasse, where you’ll 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’ll have plenty of free time to sample the wonderful tastes of Vienna’s Christmas markets, such sumptuous Käsekrainer sausage, sweet doughnuts, salty pretzels, and Kartoffelpuffer – a savory potato pancake. Meals: B, L, D

DiscoverMORE: Visit to Schönbrunn Palace (extra expense)
DiscoverMORE: 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 miles from Vienna. Pre-Christmas time in Bratislava is intrinsically connected with glowing streets, warm holiday spirit, traditional dishes, and yuletide 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 is also home to many charming Christmas markets, which are a joy to leisurely stroll through. The main Christmas Market is located at the Main Square and Hviezdoslav Square, but there are plenty of smaller ones in the city center as well, such as the square in front of the Eurovea shopping center. Whichever market you venture into, the irresistible scents of Christmas time and the unique festive atmosphere will get you for sure! Meals: B, L, D

EmeraldPLUS: Local Slovakian Entertainment onboard
EmeraldPLUS: Christmas traditions in Europe (onboard presentation)

Budapest is Eastern Europe’s liveliest and most cosmopolitan city. Join a guided tour today, where you will be covering some of the highlights of Budapest and learn more about its stunning landscape and architecture. The history of the Hungarian capital shows a unique blend of cultures, cuisine and vibrant lifestyle. 

There is so much to take in while you pass through the bustling city, which is an attractive destination for visitors from all over the world. 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, and folk dancing with music in a local restaurant in Budapest. Meals: B, L, D

EmeraldPLUS: Dinner & folklore show in Budapest
DiscoverMORE: Excursion to Szentendre (extra expense)

After breakfast, it’s time to say farewell to your fellow guests and disembark your Star-Ship for your transfer to the airport and your onward or homebound flight, taking memories of the delightful Danube at Christmas time with you. Meal: B