River Cruise Christmas Markets from Budapest to Vienna

Cruise through the heart of Europe's finest cities, many of which host great traditional Christmas markets. There's nothing quite like a Christmas cruise on the Danube, as you'll be able to take advantage of the hundreds of stalls selling Christmas gifts for your loved ones. It will be a unique and exclusive experience sailing for 4 nights on the Danube at this beautiful time of the year, the beginning of Christmas. You will be able to visit historic sites in Budapest, Bratislava, and Vienna, disembarking directly at central locations in each city, perfect for visiting their Christmas markets, museums, and even enjoy concerts and special events. This cruise is much more than just a trip: it is an all-inclusive luxury experience. All excursions are included, guided by experts who will show you the best of each destination with no additional costs or worries. Indulge in gastronomic delights at à la carte restaurants, where every meal is a celebration of local and international flavours, prepared by world-class chefs. In Budapest in particular, a sightseeing bus tour is included, as well as a dinner and folklore show. On board, comfort and pleasure are the norm. Relax by the swimming pool with panoramic views, enjoy a round of golf, sunbathe on the sun loungers, pamper yourself in the hairdresser's salon or experience a movie night under the stars. The exclusive ambience and personalised service will make every moment unforgettable. Experience the Rhine like never before: luxury, culture, landscapes and unique experiences, all included. Book your place and let yourself be carried away by the magic of Europe from the water.

What you need to know:

Luxury River Cruise to enjoy the Christmas Markets

Itinerary

This itinerary begins in Budapest, where you can explore the majestic Parliament, enjoy a soak in the famous thermal baths and stroll through the historic Buda quarter. Continuing on to Bratislava, you will see the charming old town and the impressive Bratislava Castle. Finally, in Vienna, visit palaces such as Schönbrunn and the State Opera, and its beautiful Christmas markets at this beautiful time of the year.

BudapestKnown for its stunning architecture and vibrant cultural life, this Hungarian city attracts tourists from all over the world. Here you can enjoy relaxing thermal baths and delicious local cuisine.
BratislavaA place where history and modernity blend, the Slovak capital offers a unique charm. Enjoy its impressive castle, vibrant streets and rich local culture.
ViennaKnown for its rich history and stunning architecture, this European capital offers renowned museums, delicious cafés and the magical music of its famous composers. A must-see destination.

*IMPORTANT: The itinerary is indicative and may vary according to weather conditions and the crew's preferences. The skipper is responsible for safety on board and can modify the itinerary at any time.

Your boat

Emerald Star Class: River

Modern and luxurious ship built for river cruises with great comfort and service. Every detail of this exceptional ship has been meticulously conceived to provide a unique experience for our guests. Enjoy the variety of suites and staterooms, each equipped with a full range of amenities that rival any world-class hotel. These ships have 4 decks, 90 cabins accommodating up to 180 passengers, and a crew of between 50 and 75 depending on the model. In addition, a host of on-board services and facilities are offered such as a cinema, sun decks with sun loungers, mini golf, heated swimming pool, bars and restaurants, hairdresser, wellness area, and much more.

Rates & availability

Twin window staterooms feature a spacious layout for small ship river cruising in Europe. A large window provides plenty of natural light, and the private bathroom will be fully equipped with luxurious ESPA brand toiletries. All suites and staterooms feature en-suite bathrooms, luxury ESPA branded toiletries, Wi-Fi, a TV and infotainment system, and a king-size bed or twin beds with high quality linens.

Approx. size: 15 m²Single bedsShowerTVWindowAir conditioningDouble bedHairdryerWardrobePrivate bathroom

From 1850 € / per person

These elegant suites are perfect for taking in the scenery. Our innovative all-weather balcony system allows you to electronically lower the floor-to-ceiling window, and a covered terrace allows you to enjoy the views in all their glory. All suites and staterooms feature en-suite bathrooms, luxury ESPA branded toiletries, Wi-Fi, a TV and infotainment system, and either a king-size bed or twin beds with high quality linens.

Approx. size: 16 m²Double bedWardrobePrivate bathroomHairdryerSea viewAir conditioningWindowSingle bedsShowerTV

From 2080 € / per person

Grand Balcony suites feature a private outdoor balcony, equipped with an outdoor climate control system. A selection of pillows ensures the best possible night's sleep, and upon request, a continental breakfast can be served in the room. All suites and staterooms feature en-suite bathrooms, luxury ESPA branded toiletries, Wi-Fi, a TV and infotainment system, and either a king-size bed or twin beds with high quality linens.

Approx. size: 20 m²Double bedHairdryerPrivate bathroomWardrobeBathtubSea viewTVShowerSingle bedsWindowAir conditioning

From 2290 € / per person

A limited number of Owner's One Bedroom Suites are available in each Star-Ship, making them our most exclusive suites. The living room and bedroom, located in separate areas, offer more space, and the dressing room provides ample storage space. All suites and staterooms feature en-suite bathrooms, luxury ESPA branded toiletries, Wi-Fi, a TV and infotainment system, and a king-size bed or twin beds with high quality linens.

Approx. size: 29 m²WindowAir conditioningSingle bedsTVShowerSea viewWardrobePrivate bathroomHairdryerDouble bed

From 2845 € / per person

Booking conditions

To formalise the reservation, a minimum deposit of 500 / 1000 euros or usd per cabin will be required, in the case of contracting your cruise plus the flight service, issuing the corresponding receipt in which it is specified. The remaining amount to be paid on the date stated in the booking confirmation. This remaining payment must be made at least 90 days before the date of departure or embarkation.
Reservations requested less than 45 days before the departure or embarkation date must be paid in full at the time of confirmation of the reservation with subsequent acceptance of the Contract and delivery of the travel or cruise vouchers. In the case of special offers launched on the market, payment must be made in accordance with the terms of the offer.
Reservations made by minors (18 years of age) will not be accepted. Reservations for underage travellers must be made by persons exercising parental authority or by other persons of legal age who have the necessary legal powers.
The traveller may cancel the contracted trip for any reason and without penalty, with the right to a refund of the price paid for the trip, within 14 days of the conclusion of the booking contract. After 14 days, it will not be possible to cancel free of charge and the following penalties will be applied: 1000 ¤ between 120 and 90 days before departure, 50% of the amount of the cruise if cancelled between 89 and 60 days before departure, and 100% of the amount of the cruise if cancelled 59 days before departure or more.

Boarding information

Embarkation and disembarkation will take place from the ports stipulated on the contracted route. The exact meeting points will be sent by email up to 10 days before departure.
If you have requested a transfer from the airport to the port and vice versa, which is included in all our Emerald and Scenic cruises, you will be transferred directly to the meeting point on the day of embarkation and disembarkation. It is not possible to request the transfer service on days other than embarkation and disembarkation.
The exact boarding and disembarkation times vary for each route and will be communicated individually in the pre-booking quotation.