Rhine Wonderland Full Itinerary:

DATES:

November 30 - December 5

OR

December 5- 10 

Day 1

Arrival in Frankfurt & Walking Tour

• We start off in one of the best Christmas Markets in Germany: Frankfurt!
• Why Frankfurt? Because it's the easiest way to fly from the USA and/or within Europe. It is super close to Frankfurt Airport. Flights are very easy and affordable here, plus Frankfurt has great train connections.
• The Christmas market here is so classically German and dates back to 1393! It's super easy to explore with a large market all interconnected throughout the main squares. Frankfurt offers a delightful blend of modern skyscrapers and historic charm. Our included walking tour will guide you through the city's highlights, from the quaint half-timbered houses of the Römer to the iconic St. Bartholomew’s Cathedral.
• You'll also explore the lively Christmas market in the picturesque Römerberg square, where wooden stalls brimming with festive treats and holiday decor create a magical atmosphere. It's the perfect introduction to your Christmas market journey!

Day 2

Heidelberg and Mannheim

• Today is VERY exciting because we are heading to my favorite city: Heidelberg! I'm biased because Michael and I lived here. But this city is the PERFECT mix of a romantic castle, river, amazing, walkable Christmas Markets, and utter beauty!
• In our included excursion, we'll take a tour of Heidelberg, explore the LARGEST wine barrel in the world, see the castle, hear the history and find over 100 decorated stalls at the Christmas Market! 
• Stay at our port and explore Mannheim! Mannheim is a city of Baroque opulence built uniquely on a chessboard grid layout. Carl Benz first successfully demonstrated his car here in 1886, the palace is one of the largest ever covering 14 acres of interior space and the red sandstone water tower and Luisenpark further beautify the city. 
• Bad Dürkheim is home to both the largest and oldest (dating back to 1417!) wine festival in the world and our optional excursion for the day. This wine region known as the Pfalz is just a few miles from the French border and has actually changed its nationality several times throughout history. This in-depth tasting will feature several wines in addition to sparkling wine and liqueur. Local sausages will complement the wines.    

Day 3

Strasbourg and the Black Forest

• Strasbourg is the Capital of Christmas for a reason! With a 100-foot Christmas tree towering over the main square, over 300 Christmas stalls spread throughout the city, and over-the-top decor wherever you go! The streets are decorated to the brim with teddy bears, angels, even Baccarat crystal chandeliers!
• Our included excursion will stop at all the major sites in town, including the Notre Dame cathedral with its beautifully complex astronomical clock, picture-perfect Petite France, and free time in town.
• The fairy tale famous Black Forest will be our optional excursion for the day. We’ll travel through the beautiful wintry mountains to visit the Vogtsbauernhof, an open air historical museum featuring the rich Schwarzwald culture. We’ll learn about the traditional dress, cuckoo clocks, and even try the famous Black Forest cake! On the way back we’ll stop in the beautiful town of Gengenbach to enjoy the world’s largest Advent calendar and a more locals only German Christmas Market.
• You will be able to do both if you like or have more free time to explore!

   
   

Day 4

Mainz & Wiesbaden

• Mainz's 2000-year-old history is highlighted by one famous individual, Johannes Gutenberg. The man who invented the modern printing press (creating the original information age) changed the world, and not one but two of his original Bibles can be found in his hometown museum.
• Strolling Mainz’s historic center with its medieval market squares is a delight, and that’s just what we’ll do along with our entertaining guide for our included excursion of the day. We’ll learn all about the 1,000-year-old cathedral as we pass beautiful Christmas Markets. Mainz is surrounded by gorgeous half-timbered architecture and unique Christmas Markets! The food in Mainz is absolutely exceptional. Sizzling bratwurst, kartoffelpuffer (basically fried potato pancakes), the best chimney cakes I've ever had, and Michael's favorite: Mohn Strudel!
  
• Our optional excursion for the day will be a visit to nearby Wiesbaden. One of the most beautiful cities in Germany, it was designed as such with wellness and luxury in mind. This spa town has spectacular architecture with grand spires reaching to the sky all across town. Your guide will teach you all about it as well as provide free time to explore on your own. Of course, there is a wonderful Christmas market here too!
  

  
  Read more at: https://europe.stripes.com/travel/the-christmas-markets-of-mainz-and-wiesbaden.html
  Source - Stars and Stripes

Day 5

Cruise to Rüdesheim and Winery 

• Did you know there are more castles on this stretch of the Middle Rhine than nearly anywhere in the world?! All located along the tall cliff sides of the Rhine. We know this guided day time sailing will be a highlight of the week (it was last year too!). Our port city, Rudesheim, is located in the heart of this wine valley with half timbered homes and wine shops almost too cute to believe. 
• The included excursion is a walking tour throughout town, including the narrow Drosselgasse, ending at the Mechanical Instrument Museum, where guides will demonstrate these fantastic machines for us!
• The optional excursion will be to a coffee house to try the famous Rudeseheimer coffee, fortified with their local spirit, and then on to a winery to taste some of the best German wine you can find.  
• This stop was a top favorite on our 2024 cruise! It's such a beautiful, historic town that's so easy to explore! Take the cable car up for views, go shopping at the incredible market, and get lost in the winding streets!

Day 6

Frankfurt

• All good things must come to an end, but what better place to wrap up our journey than in Frankfurt? We chose to start and end in Frankfurt because it’s home to one of the world’s largest and most well-connected airports, making onward travel a breeze. Frankfurt’s central location and excellent train connections also make it easy to extend your trip if you’d like to explore more of Europe!
• Frankfurt has so much to offer, from its picturesque Christmas markets to its blend of modern skyscrapers and historic charm. The interconnected markets throughout the Römerberg square are a highlight, offering festive treats, handcrafted gifts, and the perfect holiday atmosphere. Whether you’re grabbing one last Glühwein or taking in the city’s twinkling lights, Frankfurt is a wonderful way to end the adventure.
• We will say "Auf Wiedersehen" to Frankfurt, but the memories of this magical Christmas market cruise will last a lifetime!
  
  

Deck the Danube Full Itinerary:

DATE: December 12-19

Day 1

Arrival in Vienna

• Welcome to Vienna, one of the most beautiful cities in the world and the perfect starting point for your Danube Christmas Market cruise! Known as the City of Music, Vienna’s charm lies in its blend of grand imperial architecture and festive markets.
• Why Vienna? Vienna is truly a jewel of Europe. It's easy to fly in and out of, and it's a city worth exploring. We’ll end the cruise here with a bonus overnight hotel extension so that we have the maximum amount of time to explore
• Visit Vienna’s iconic landmarks, including the majestic Hofburg Imperial Palace and the world-famous St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Stroll through the pedestrian-friendly city center and explore charming Christmas markets filled with holiday delights. It’s the perfect introduction to Vienna’s timeless elegance and Christmas magic!
• With over TWENTY Christmas markets in Vienna, palaces, music, and holiday cheer, this city truly is one of the best destinations!

Day 2

Budapest

• Known as the "Queen of the Danube," Budapest is a city that seamlessly blends history, culture, and stunning architecture. Once part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire, the city is split into two sides—Buda, with its historic castles and hills, and Pest, bustling with urban energy. A city that shines even brighter during the holiday season.
• Our included excursion begins at the Great Market Hall, Hungary’s largest indoor market, built in 1896. Here, you’ll discover Hungarian specialties like Tokaj wine and paprika while soaking in the vibrant atmosphere. Continue to the City Park, home to the romantic Vajdahunyad Castle and the famous Széchenyi Baths, some of Europe’s largest thermal baths.
• Optional Excursion: Delve deeper into Budapest’s rich history with a visit to Castle Hill and its historic wonders. This tour takes you through Pest, past landmarks like the Hungarian State Opera and the striking Neo-Gothic Parliament building, before crossing the Danube into Buda. Explore Castle Hill, home to St. Matthias Church and the Fisherman’s Bastion, with its panoramic views of the city.
•  In the evening, experience Budapest as it SHOULD be: lit up like a fairy tale as we cruise along the Danube. A folklore show on board will take it to a whole other level! Truly the best way to see the city.
• We dock in Budapest until 2:00 AM, giving you ample time to explore the city at night and even visit the famous ruin pubs!

Day 3

Esztergom & Szentendre

Day 4

Bratislava

• Bratislava, the charming capital of Slovakia, boasts a unique blend of Gothic, Baroque, and modern influences. It's buzzing with history, music, charming Christmas markets, and incredible food. The atmosphere here is just unbeatable.
• Frankly, the Christmas market here is AMAZING. The food here is absolutely unmatched! Climb the town hall tower for a panoramic view of the city and its bustling Christmas markets.  There's also the medieval Christmas market at the castle!
  
• Our included guided walking tour takes you through the beautifully restored old town, where cobblestone streets and pastel-colored facades create a picturesque backdrop. Highlights include St. Martin’s Cathedral, Grassalkovich Palace, and Michael’s Gate, the last remaining medieval fortification. Then, we'll try the famous Pressburger roll!

• The optional excursion lets you take part in a unique beer and honey tasting experience. Sample local brews alongside traditional Slovak honey products, all while learning about the rich culinary history of the region.

  
  
  
  Read more at: https://europe.stripes.com/travel/the-christmas-markets-of-mainz-and-wiesbaden.html
  Source - Stars and StOur optional excursion is to Esztergom, which was once the royal seat of Hungarian kings. Visit Hungary’s largest cathedral, a magnificent basilica featuring an ornate red marble chapel and breathtaking interiors. It’s a day filled with history, art, and stunning vistas. We'll stroll through the Christmas market, complete with an ice skating rink!

Day 5

Melk Abbey & Dürnstein Abbey

• Dürnstein is the quintessential storybook village nestled in the heart of Austria's Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Known as one of the most beautiful towns along the Danube, it’s impossible not to fall in love with its charm. The baby blue Dürnstein Abbey, with its striking baroque tower, is a showstopper visible from the river. It’s an iconic landmark that feels straight out of a fairytale.
• Our included walking tour of Dürnstein will take you through its winding cobblestone streets lined with charming shops, local wine taverns, and historic architecture. You’ll hear the fascinating story of King Richard the Lionheart, who was famously imprisoned in the castle ruins overlooking the village. As we explore the picturesque old town, you’ll have plenty of time to soak in the festive atmosphere of its Christmas market. Indulge in local specialties, sip on mulled wine, and admire the stunning views of the Danube framed by terraced vineyards.
• Prepare to have your mind... BLOWN! Melk Abbey is one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture in the world and it's perched on a hill overlooking the Danube. This Benedictine abbey is famous for its stunning frescoes, grand marble hall, and historic library filled with medieval manuscripts. It’s no wonder Melk Abbey inspired Umberto Eco’s novel The Name of the Rose. We'll also have a mulled wine tasting here!
  

Day 6

Linz & Salzburg

•  Linz, Austria’s third-largest city and our included excursion today! Linz is a delightful blend of rich history and modern culture. Nestled along the Danube River, Linz offers a captivating mix of medieval charm and contemporary innovation. The city boasts enchanting Christmas markets, including the elegant Stiegl Klosterhof market, which feels straight out of a winter wonderland with its twinkling lights and festive decor - literally thousands of red ornaments! These markets are a hidden gem, offering an intimate holiday experience without overwhelming crowds.
• For music lovers and holiday enthusiasts, Salzburg is a dream destination. Our optional excursion takes us to this UNESCO-listed city is the birthplace of Mozart and the filming location for The Sound of Music. We'll have a guided tour here! Wander through the historic old town, marvel at Baroque architecture, and visit the famous Salzburg Cathedral. The city’s Christmas markets are a highlight, featuring charming wooden stalls with handcrafted goods, traditional Austrian treats, and the warmth of mulled wine.

•  This day offers the best of both worlds: the charm and intimacy of Linz’s markets and the grandeur of Salzburg’s Baroque beauty, ensuring a magical and memorable holiday experience!

   

Day 7

Vienna

• Back in Vienna, we'll take in the city that truly sparkles and buzzes with life! Literally, chandeliers made of twinkle lights hang in the streets!
• Here, we will leave the ship and have an extension with an overnight stay in a hotel in Vienna!
• Vienna’s Christmas markets are among the best in Europe, offering a variety of experiences across the city. The Rathausplatz market is a must-see, with its grand backdrop of the illuminated City Hall and over 150 stalls selling handmade gifts, ornaments, and traditional Austrian treats. At Schönbrunn Palace, the market combines Baroque grandeur with holiday cheer, featuring artisanal crafts and mulled wine. For a cozier vibe, the Spittelberg market winds through narrow streets filled with unique stalls and local charm.
• Our included tour will take us through the highlights of this majestic city, starting with a panoramic drive along the famous Ringstrasse. Marvel at Vienna’s stunning architecture, including the Vienna Opera House, Parliament, City Hall, and the Court Theatre. Continue with a walking tour through the charming old town, featuring iconic sites such as the Hofburg Imperial Palace and St. Stephen’s Cathedral. You’ll have plenty of time to explore Vienna’s Christmas markets, each with its own unique charm.
• In the evening, attend our optional excursion with the “Sound of Vienna” classical concert, featuring music of Strauss! It’s the perfect way to celebrate Vienna’s timeless musical heritage. Truly remarkable!

Day 8

Vienna

• All magical journeys must come to a close, but what better place to end than in Vienna, a city that truly embodies the festive spirit of the holidays? Vienna’s well-connected airport makes traveling onward a breeze, and its central location offers endless opportunities for exploration if you choose to extend your trip.
• Vienna is one of the most iconic cities in Europe, with its enchanting markets, grand architecture, and rich cultural history. Whether you want to visit St. Stephen’s Cathedral one more time, enjoy the bustling markets filled with handcrafted treasures, or indulge in one last slice of Sachertorte, there’s no shortage of ways to spend time in Vienna!
• We will say "Auf Wiedersehen" to Vienna, but the memories of this unforgettable cruise will stay with you forever!