BUDAPEST, HUNGARY – EMBARKATION. Board the ship for your Christmas Markets on the Danube cruise. (D)

BUDAPEST. Today you have the opportunity to visit both the Buda (hilly) and Pest (flat) sides of the Danube River. Start on the Buda side, following your guide through the city’s Castle District where you will marvel at the fairytale turrets of Fisherman’s Bastion, gaze upon the breathtaking panorama below and see Matthias Church, renowned for its striking tower and colorful mosaic roof. You will also visit the city’s famed Christmas Markets. For a more active tour, hike to Budapest’s Castle Hill. In the afternoon, explore the treasures of Pest, admiring the colossal Hungarian Parliament Building, Heroes’ Square and the moving “Shoes on the Danube Bank” memorial. (B,L,D)

BRATISLAVA, SLOVAKIA. Host to the crowning ceremonies of 11 Hungarian kings and queens between 1536 and 1830, Bratislava certainly has earned the title “Coronation City of Kings,” as you’ll discover during your walking tour. You’ll also have an opportunity to visit Bratislava’s charming Christmas market. Or join a special “Tastes of Slovakia” tour. For a more active adventure, hike up to Bratislava Castle, offering magnificent views of the city. (B,L,D)

VIENNA. The “City of Waltzes” offers a treasure trove of gems just waiting to be discovered. Join a tourshowcasing its regal splendors, such as the majestic Opera House and the former Imperial Palace of theHabsburgs, before concluding in Vienna’s historic city center. If you prefer a more active adventure, then join aguided bike ride through Vienna. In the afternoon, experience the spectacular festive atmosphere of the Schönbrunn Christmas Markets. at the beautifully decorated Christmas Markets in this magnificent city. In the evening, spend some free time at the beautifully decorated and illuminated Rathaus Square and the Chirstkindlmarkt, Vienna’s largest Christmas Market. (B,L,D)

WEISSENKIRCHEN – WACHAU VALLEY – MELK. After reaching Weissenkirchen, you’ll have a choice of excursions. Join a walking tour in Dürnstein and then taste some of the village’s distinctive wines. Or visit a local boutique to taste Durnstein’s special apricot treats, such as jams and chocolates. Prefer more active adventures? Join a guided bike tour from Weissenkirchen to Melk. For those not biking to Melk, you’ll sail through the UNESCO-designated Wachau Valley to Melk, where you will have the opportunity to visit the magnificent Benedictine Abbey. (B,L,D)

Nestled along the majestic Danube River, Melk is a picturesque Austrian town renowned for its striking 11th Century Melk Abbey, a jewel of Baroque architecture. As part of the UNESCO-listed Wachau Valley, Melk enchants visitors with its terraced vineyards and breathtaking apricot blossoms in spring. Stroll through the charming streets and discover the vibrant Town Hall Square and the quaint Old Abbey Tavern. Explore the serene landscapes through leisurely river cruises or cycling tours, and immerse yourself in the cultural vibrancy during the annual Melk Baroque Days festival. Experience the allure of Melk, a perfect blend of history and natural beauty.

LINZ. Linz is known for being the city of Christmas crèches and its ever-popular Linzer torte. While here, you have a choice of four excursions. Join a full-day visit to Salzburg where you’ll enjoy a walking tour of the UNESCO-designated Old Town, its magnificent cathedral and its breathtaking Christmas Markets, or a full-day visit to the charming Czech mountain town of Český Krumlov and explore its dazzling Christmas Markets. Alternatively, join a morning walking tour through Linz’s old city center and by the Mozart House, where he composed the Linz Symphony in only three days, as well as visit Linz’s Christmas Markets. Or you can go on a guided bike tour through Linz and along the city’s famed “Culture Mile” and the Danube River. In the afternoon, embark on a journey into the fascinating world of whiskey distillation on an exciting guided tour. (B,L,D)

Full-day excursions not combinable with other tours on this day

PASSAU. During the season of Advent, beautiful Passau dresses in her Bavarian holiday splendor, which you will discover on your walking tour through the city and at its Christmas Market at St. Stephen’s Square—also home to its magnificent cathedral. Go in search of unique crafts, including Bavarian-style houses and glass ornaments. If you prefer a more active adventure, hike to Paulinerkloister Mariahilf or join a guided bike ride along the Danube. Later, sail for Vilshofen, where you’ll be treated to an exclusive Oktoberfest celebration. (B,L,D)

Experience the enchanting charm of Vilshofen, Austria, a picturesque port nestled along the Danube River. Here, you'll find cobblestone streets lined with delightful cafés and historic buildings that whisper tales of the past. Discover the nearby treasures of Passau, famed for its stunning architecture and vibrant cultural scene. As you explore, indulge in Austria's renowned culinary delights, from rich pastries to savory schnitzels, all while basking in the serene beauty of the riverbanks. With each moment in Vilshofen, let the allure of Austria captivate your senses and ignite your wanderlust.

VILSHOFEN – DISEMBARKATION. Disembark the ship and bid farewell to Vilshofen as you prepare for your flight home. (B)