Prague to Budapest & Christmas Time on the Danube

When you arrive in Prague, you will be met at the airport and transferred to your centrally located hotel for a two-night stay.

The heart of Prague is an enchanting treasure trove, showcasing some of Europe’s finest and most well-preserved architectural marvels from various eras. Begin your journey by exploring three magnificent castle courtyards before stepping into the awe-inspiring St. Vitus Cathedral. From there, descend the Castle Steps, where breathtaking views of Prague unfold before your eyes. Next, we stroll across the iconic Charles Bridge, leading us to the charming Old Town. Our unforgettable city tour concludes at the legendary Astronomical Clock in the vibrant Old Town Square, leaving you captivated by Prague’s timeless beauty. 

Included Excursion
A guided tour of Prague

EmeraldPLUS
Coffee & Cake at Lobkowicz Palace

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Tastes of Czechia (extra expense)

You’ll be collected from your hotel and transferred to Vienna this morning, to board your Emerald Cruises Star-Ship.

Vienna is the capital and largest city of Austria. Located on the Danube River in the East of the country, the city is renowned for its strong music heritage and rich culture, and is the largest German speaking city in the world, outside of Berlin. In 2001, Vienna was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and boasts magnificent architecture. The city is home to over 27 castles and 150 palaces including the symbolic Gothic St Stephen’s Cathedral and the iconic Schönbrunn Palace. Art and music are in abundance and all tastes are catered for. Live music venues offer everything from Rock to Opera. Enjoy world class performances at Vienna State Opera and experience the epicentre of international concert life at Musikverein. Modern and historical art can be found in indoor and outdoor spaces around the city, and a visit to the famous Kunsthistorisches Museum (KHM) is highly recommended. Enjoy views of the city from the Danube Tower and the Giant Ferris Wheel, then relax in the ample cosy coffee houses, cafes, bars and restaurants where traditional and international cuisines are served, as well as the locally produced wines.

Vienna is the capital and largest city of Austria. Located on the Danube River in the East of the country, the city is renowned for its strong music heritage and rich culture, and is the largest German speaking city in the world, outside of Berlin. In 2001, Vienna was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and boasts magnificent architecture. The city is home to over 27 castles and 150 palaces including the symbolic Gothic St Stephen’s Cathedral and the iconic Schönbrunn Palace. Art and music are in abundance and all tastes are catered for. Live music venues offer everything from Rock to Opera. Enjoy world class performances at Vienna State Opera and experience the epicentre of international concert life at Musikverein. Modern and historical art can be found in indoor and outdoor spaces around the city, and a visit to the famous Kunsthistorisches Museum (KHM) is highly recommended. Enjoy views of the city from the Danube Tower and the Giant Ferris Wheel, then relax in the ample cosy coffee houses, cafes, bars and restaurants where traditional and international cuisines are served, as well as the locally produced wines.

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 savoury potato pancake.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Vienna

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Visit to Schönbrunn Palace (extra expense)

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Viennese evening concert (extra expense)

Bratislava is the capital city of Slovakia and is located along the Danube a river on the borders of Austria and Hungary. The city is surrounded by the Little Carpathians Mountains and vineyards as well as its iconic reconstructed Bratislava Castle overlooking Old Town. The castle offers a picturesque view of the city, the neighbouring countries and is home to the Museum of History. Bratislava offers a blend of historic and modern attractions including the Old Town Hall, now home to the Bratislava City Museum, the UFO Bridge, Martin’s Cathedral, Michael’s Gate and Blue Church St Elizabeth’s. Bratislava is home to one of the oldest city parks in Central Europe and is popular with walkers, runners and cyclists as is the city forest park and foothills of the Carpathian Mountains. The city is popular for its locally brewed beers and has many micro-breweries and underground beer cellars. The local cuisine of Bratislava is an eclectic influence of European cultures including Slovak, Hungarian, Austrian and German and serves as a reminder of the history of this cosmopolitan city. However, visitors will find an array of offerings to suit all tastes with lunch being the main meal of the day and roast goose with lokse considered a signature dish of the area.

Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, is situated in a wonderful location between the Carpathians and the Alps, just a few kilometres 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 centre as well, such as the square in front of the Eurovea shopping centre. Whichever market you venture into, the irresistible scents of Christmas time and the unique festive atmosphere will get you for sure!

Included Excursion
Walking tour of Bratislava

EmeraldPLUS
Local Slovakian Entertainment on board

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Christmas traditions in Europe (on board presentation)

Budapest is the capital city of Hungary and is located over the River Danube. It is one of the largest cities in the European Union and much of its historical sites have been awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Originally formed in 1873 by the joining of Buda, Pest and Old Buda, the city suffered heavy destruction during World War II and was rebuilt into the country's political, cultural and commercial hub it is now. Bridges and railways connect the city over the Danube, including the six small islands situated on the river themselves. Some of Budapest’s UNESCO World Heritage sites include Chain Bridge, Budapest Parliament, the striking Matthias church and the iconic Royal Palace visible from every location within Budapest City. The Castle Hills district architecture represents over a thousand years of the city's history with examples of Roman, Turkish, Gothic, Renaissance and Art Nouveau styles. Budapest also has a rich Jewish heritage and is home to the largest synagogue in Europe. The city has an abundance of restaurants offering international cuisines, as well as traditional Hungarian dishes ,including goulash soup, a very popular lunchtime dish. Hungarians enjoy their coffee so a traditional cafe is never hard to find.

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.

Included Excursion
Guided coach tour of Budapest

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Dinner in Budapest with Folklore Show

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Excursion to Szentendre (extra expense)

Budapest is the capital city of Hungary and is located over the River Danube. It is one of the largest cities in the European Union and much of its historical sites have been awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Originally formed in 1873 by the joining of Buda, Pest and Old Buda, the city suffered heavy destruction during World War II and was rebuilt into the country's political, cultural and commercial hub it is now. Bridges and railways connect the city over the Danube, including the six small islands situated on the river themselves. Some of Budapest’s UNESCO World Heritage sites include Chain Bridge, Budapest Parliament, the striking Matthias church and the iconic Royal Palace visible from every location within Budapest City. The Castle Hills district architecture represents over a thousand years of the city's history with examples of Roman, Turkish, Gothic, Renaissance and Art Nouveau styles. Budapest also has a rich Jewish heritage and is home to the largest synagogue in Europe. The city has an abundance of restaurants offering international cuisines, as well as traditional Hungarian dishes ,including goulash soup, a very popular lunchtime dish. Hungarians enjoy their coffee so a traditional cafe is never hard to find.

After breakfast, leave the lush surrounds of your suite or stateroom and be transferred to your centrally-located accommodation in Budapest, where a two-night stay in the city is certain to delight.  

From fairy lights to wooden ornaments, from spiced mulled wine to roasted chimney cake, Budapest is a wonderfully festive place to celebrate the Christmas holidays. Enjoy a guided tour of the city, touching on its two distinctive faces. 

Included Excursion
A guided coach tour of Budapest

Budapest is the capital city of Hungary and is located over the River Danube. It is one of the largest cities in the European Union and much of its historical sites have been awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Originally formed in 1873 by the joining of Buda, Pest and Old Buda, the city suffered heavy destruction during World War II and was rebuilt into the country's political, cultural and commercial hub it is now. Bridges and railways connect the city over the Danube, including the six small islands situated on the river themselves. Some of Budapest’s UNESCO World Heritage sites include Chain Bridge, Budapest Parliament, the striking Matthias church and the iconic Royal Palace visible from every location within Budapest City. The Castle Hills district architecture represents over a thousand years of the city's history with examples of Roman, Turkish, Gothic, Renaissance and Art Nouveau styles. Budapest also has a rich Jewish heritage and is home to the largest synagogue in Europe. The city has an abundance of restaurants offering international cuisines, as well as traditional Hungarian dishes ,including goulash soup, a very popular lunchtime dish. Hungarians enjoy their coffee so a traditional cafe is never hard to find.

Today the storied capital of Hungary is yours to explore at leisure, perhaps crossing the Chain Bridge to see how the city differs in Buda and Pest or stopping by some Christmas markets to try some delightful Hungarian treats.

Budapest is the capital city of Hungary and is located over the River Danube. It is one of the largest cities in the European Union and much of its historical sites have been awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Originally formed in 1873 by the joining of Buda, Pest and Old Buda, the city suffered heavy destruction during World War II and was rebuilt into the country's political, cultural and commercial hub it is now. Bridges and railways connect the city over the Danube, including the six small islands situated on the river themselves. Some of Budapest’s UNESCO World Heritage sites include Chain Bridge, Budapest Parliament, the striking Matthias church and the iconic Royal Palace visible from every location within Budapest City. The Castle Hills district architecture represents over a thousand years of the city's history with examples of Roman, Turkish, Gothic, Renaissance and Art Nouveau styles. Budapest also has a rich Jewish heritage and is home to the largest synagogue in Europe. The city has an abundance of restaurants offering international cuisines, as well as traditional Hungarian dishes ,including goulash soup, a very popular lunchtime dish. Hungarians enjoy their coffee so a traditional cafe is never hard to find.

After breakfast, it is time to bid farewell to your fellow passengers as you leave your centrally-located accommodation for your transfer to the airport.

This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.