Welcome to Budapest. You'll be greeted by an Emerald Cruises representative at the airport and transferred to your contemporary Star-Ship. After boarding, you'll have time to enjoy Budapest at your leisure. This evening, enjoy a performance of Hungarian folk music and dance onboard.
Join a local guide for a tour of the Hungarian capital today, 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. Following your guided tour, enjoy free time to explore the stalls of Budapest's main Christmas market, where handcrafted ornaments are plentiful and colorful strings of lights line the streets. ... Read More
Across Europe, different cultures intertwine at Christmastime, sharing their traditions, treats, and unique customs. The Slovakian capital is a truly charming city whose roots can be traced across the continent. Enjoy a sightseeing tour of Bratislava, including its enchanting historic district and some of its many bustling Christmas markets. ... Read More
Sweeping boulevards and world-famous art exhibitions welcome you to Vienna, a city perfectly encapsulating the extravagance of the Habsburg Monarchy and their love of ornate Baroque palaces. For art lovers, there is no other place like the Austrian capital, not just because the city is packed with museums and artwork, but because of its variety. Your tour will include a visit to the Kunsthistorisches Museum, the largest art museum in the country and one of the most important museums worldwide. ... Read More
Sunday - Dec 13, 2026
Day 5
Durnstein, Austria
Enjoy a guided tour of Gottweig Abbey, a true treasure overlooking the Wachau Valley from a hill covered by vineyards and forests. Constructed in 1083, it's one of Austria's most important Benedictine abbeys, attracting visitors from across the globe. Run by a community of about 45 monks, it's visible from a great distance and provides epic panoramas from the grounds. As part of the tour you get to taste the delightful Gottweig wine, which is a tradition well kept by the monks throughout centuries. ... Read More
Monday - Dec 14, 2026
Day 6
Linz, Germany
Today you will be docked in Linz, the capital of Upper Austria and Austria's third-biggest city after Vienna and Graz. During your walking tour, you will have the chance to see the historical old town with a mix of Baroque and Renaissance architecture. Hand-carved nativity scenes are on display in many of its churches, making for a serene and contemplative Christmas experience. A festive day for the senses, as you end with a Linzertorte tasting - the local delicacy that will add flavor to your Christmas time memories of this old Austrian town. ... Read More
Tuesday - Dec 15, 2026
Day 7
Passau, Germany
Embark on a guided tour to Passau. Explore its beautiful historic center, featuring charming Baroque buildings, stunning riverside views, and narrow cobblestone streets, all infused with the aroma of freshly baked gingerbread. This important historic trading center, known as the City of Three Rivers-where three of Europe's main waterways converge-borders Austria and showcases a distinctive blend of cultures. You can enjoy the magical ambience in the St. Stephen Cathedral with its special organ concert or wander through the Christmas market of Passau right in front of the St. Stephan's Cathedral and discover the unique Bavarian delicacies. Back onboard your Star-Ship, enjoy a live local entertainment showcasing typical Bavarian tradition. ... Read More
Today, you will have the opportunity to explore Prague as it is effortlessly enveloped by the wonder of the seasonal period. Your local guide will take you through the Old Town Square, a cobblestoned area that perfectly captures the city's architectural heritage.
Your tour director will be available to help you plan your day of independent exploration today. We would recommend going to one of Prague's memorable Christmas markets, where colourful stalls owned by local craftsmen are full of handcrafted ornaments and freshly baked Czech Christmas treats.
Cruise and Land Value Offers that combine with this sailing.
Pricing Terms and Conditions
Unless otherwise indicated above, all cruise rates are per person, double occupancy, cruise-only without airfare, do not include government taxes and fees and quoted in in U.S. dollars. Ponant Cruises rates are based on foreign currencies that are converted to USD based on today's exchange rates. Rates are subject to availability, can vary by ship and sailing date, and for new bookings only. Fares are capacity controlled, and subject to change without notice. Port charges are included. Prices do not include additional service charges; Travel Insurance; and applicable government taxes & fees unless otherwise specified in the offer. Surcharges and fees implemented by a travel supplier, even after the reservation is made, will be the sole responsibility of each traveler and is due and payable in full prior to departure. Certain promotions which may include amenities like shipboard credits, pre-paid gratuities, drink packages or other packages may be available by category, room type or fare code and may not be combinable with other promotions. For any questions, please consult one of our cruise specialists for applicability and verification. All prices, inclusions & promotions listed on the web-site are current at the time they we published and are subject to change without advance notice. Arrivia, Inc., its subsidiaries, and partners are not responsible for last minute changes to price or itinerary by cruise lines, or for any errors or omissions in the content of this website.