Christmas Markets on the Danube

7 nights from £4,773pp departing Sunday 15th Dec 2024

This special festive twist of our classic itinerary down the Danube lets you explore the majestic architecture and markets of Budapest, before joining a local Slovakian family in Bratislava for home-hosted coffee and cake. Marvel at the classical surrounds of Vienna then wander the Christmas markets of Regensburg, highly regarded as 'one of the loveliest'.

Itinerary

Map

					Arrive	Depart
	15th15	DecDec	202424	Budapest, Hungary, embark on the Emerald Star
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. Fly from the UK to Budapest. 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 on board. EmeraldPLUS Traditional Hungarian folklore show on board Flight to arrive into Budapest prior to 05:00 PM.
	16th16	DecDec	202424	Budapest, Hungary
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. 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. Included Excursion Guided coach tour of Budapest
	17th17	DecDec	202424	Bratislava, Slovakia
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. 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. Included Excursion Walking tour of Bratislava EmeraldPLUS Home-hosted coffee and cake with a Slovakian family DiscoverMORE Carpathian wine route (extra expense)
	18th18	DecDec	202424	Vienna, Austria
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. 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. Included Excursion Vienna art tour with a visit to the Kunsthistorisches Museum DiscoverMORE Viennese evening concert (extra expense)
	19th19	DecDec	202424	Krems, Austria
Krems an der Donau is a city in Northeast Austria located approximately forty three miles from Vienna. The city is situated on the banks of the river Danube and is one of the oldest of the Wachau Valley. Krems prides itself on historical preservation and has recently been awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status. The history of the city dates back more than a thousand years with evidence found in its streets, squares, monasteries, churches and fortifications. Krems is also a modern city which celebrates its contemporary art and modern literature as well as being a leader in biotech application research. Exploring Krems is easily done on foot with city walking tours being very popular. Discover Old Krems and the Art Mile and learn about the city’s rich history at Museum Krems. As with many wine cities, food and drink is in abundance with popular restaurants and wine bars housed in historical buildings which enhance and deepen the dining and wine tasting experience. Enjoy a guided tour of Göttweig 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. EmeraldPLUS Christmas traditions in Europe (on board presentation) Included Excursion Guided tour of Göttweig Abbey
	20th20	DecDec	202424	Passau, Germany
Passau is a German city located in the Southeast of Germany on the Austrian border. It is situated at the confluence of the rivers Danube, Inn and Ilz. The Three Rivers City, as it’s also known, is unique for its three contrasting currents of blue, green and black. Old Town of Passau is home to towering buildings of striking architecture: the majestic fortress Veste Oberhaus, the Pilgrimage Church Mariahilf and St Stephen's Cathedral. Many of Passau’s attractions can be found in this area, including the New Bishop’s Residence, the Gothic Town Hall, as well as many churches and museums. Visitors can stroll along the riverfront promenades and romantic lanes whilst enjoying the picturesque landscape. For modern art, The Museum of Modern Art and Glass Museum Passau are recommended as they offer something a bit different. Theatre and cabaret are a popular evening pastime, with performances at the former Prince Bishopric Theatre or some lively cabaret and Jazz at the Scharfrichterhaus. Visitors will also find many traditional local Bavarian and Austrian cafes and restaurants offering a cosy atmosphere with home cooked food from local produce. A blanket of powdered snow graces the European countryside at Christmastime, creating a magical setting as we cruise into Passau. On this afternoon’s included walking tour of the town, enjoy visiting the annual Christkindlmarkt, set in front of St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Almost a hundred gingerbread-like stalls selling festive souvenirs and handmade gifts are found here, each connected to the next by strings of twinkling fairy lights. Included Excursion Guided tour of Passau DiscoverMORE Visit to Schuetzmuseum Engelhartszell (extra expense)
	20th20	DecDec	202424	Engelhartszell an der Donau, Austria
	21st21	DecDec	202424	Regensburg, Germany
Regensburg is a medieval city of Bavaria in southeast Germany. It is situated on the northern point of the Danube River at its confluence with the Regen and Naab rivers. The city is famous for its iconic 12th Century stone bridge and sixteen arches, crossing the Danube into Old Town and is the oldest preserved bridge in Germany. Regensburg is also noted for its 13th Century Regensburg Cathedral and Gothic twin spires that feature prominently on the city’s skyline. Recently awarded UNESCO World Heritage status, the city is home to many preserved sites. Visit the the 2nd Century Porta Praetoria which served as the north gate to a Roman camp and St Peter’s Cathedral, with its French Gothic architecture. Also the 18th Century Thurn and Taxis Palace and the Old Town Hall, which is now home to the Imperial Diet Museum, are also worth a visit. Regensburg benefits from lots of parks and gardens for visitors to relax in, as well as walks and cycle paths along the banks of the rivers. Today, you will have the opportunity to visit one of the best-preserved medieval cities in Germany, Regensburg. Our guided walking tour will explain the history behind this UNESCO World Heritage-listed city, as you stroll across one of the oldest bridges on the Danube and witness its ancient fortifications. Stop to visit one of the loveliest Christmas markets in the region at Thurn and Taxis Palace, with its many quaint wooden stalls, twinkling lights, and festive goods adorning hidden passageways and narrow cobblestone streets. EmeraldPLUS Visit to the Christmas Market at Thurn and Taxis Palace Grounds EmeraldPLUS Traditional Bavarian band on board EmeraldPLUS Walking tour of Regensburg with Bavarian sausage tasting DiscoverMORE Excursion to Nuremberg (extra expense)
	22nd22	DecDec	202424	Regensburg, Germany, disembark the Emerald Star
Regensburg is a medieval city of Bavaria in southeast Germany. It is situated on the northern point of the Danube River at its confluence with the Regen and Naab rivers. The city is famous for its iconic 12th Century stone bridge and sixteen arches, crossing the Danube into Old Town and is the oldest preserved bridge in Germany. Regensburg is also noted for its 13th Century Regensburg Cathedral and Gothic twin spires that feature prominently on the city’s skyline. Recently awarded UNESCO World Heritage status, the city is home to many preserved sites. Visit the the 2nd Century Porta Praetoria which served as the north gate to a Roman camp and St Peter’s Cathedral, with its French Gothic architecture. Also the 18th Century Thurn and Taxis Palace and the Old Town Hall, which is now home to the Imperial Diet Museum, are also worth a visit. Regensburg benefits from lots of parks and gardens for visitors to relax in, as well as walks and cycle paths along the banks of the rivers. After breakfast, it’s time to say farewell to your fellow guests. Disembark your Star-Ship in Regensburg for your transfer to the airport for your flight to the UK and take memories of handcrafted ornaments and gingerbread stalls with you. Flight to depart out of Munich after 02:00 PM. 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.

Emerald Star

Launch Year

2014

Tonnage

3,539

Capacity

180

Cabins

Accessible

Sun Deck

Horizon Deck

Vista Deck

Riviera Deck

The images shown are for illustration purposes only and may not be an exact representation of what you find on the ship.

Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite

Your Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite offers everything you could possibly need throughout your cruise, and more. You’ll be surrounded by elegant décor and opulent, comfortable furnishings, as you unwind in your home-away-from-home. Relax on your balcony as the stunning landscapes pass by, and transform it from an indoor to an outdoor space with ease, as the floor-to-ceiling window lowers to a halfway point at the touch of a button. Enjoy the river breeze from your comfortable chair, enjoying a good book or the unfolding vistas. Treat yourself to a drink from your suite’s minibar, or use it to keep your complimentary bottle of water chilled, or for any souvenirs that require it.

When it’s time to retire to bed, you can look forward to the exceptional comfort of your queen-size or twin hotel-style bed, complete with luxurious linens. Treat yourself to an indulgent shower with luxury toiletries, to really prepare yourself for an excellent night’s sleep.

Of course, keeping in touch with your loved ones is really easy. Every suite has its own telephone, as well as complimentary Wi-Fi being available throughout the Star-Ship.

Emerald Stateroom

An Emerald Stateroom is home to all the amenities you need to settle into your home-away-from-home. A great size picture window lets in the perfect amount of light, welcoming in the golden summer sunshine, or the winter sun during cooler months.

Comfort is of the highest importance, so each room features individual climate control, allowing you to personalise your room’s temperature to suit your preferences and the time of year you’re cruising.

We’ve designed our bathrooms as a relaxing retreat to retire to after an exciting day exploring. Enjoy a sumptuous shower complete with indulgent toiletries, as well as a hairdryer, all before settling into your queen or twin hotel-style bed, complete with luscious linens, as you enjoy a movie on your flat screen TV and infotainment system with, perhaps, a nightcap from your mini-bar.

If you wish to stay in contact with loved ones throughout your trip, you can do so using your in-suite telephone or our free Wi-Fi available throughout the ship.

Emerald Stateroom Single

We make solo travel easy and comfortable as all of our Star-Ships, except Emerald Radiance, boast two Emerald Single Staterooms. Home to a deluxe single bed, a bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries and hairdryer, you’ll have all the comforts you need at your fingertips. Your picture window welcomes in a lovely amount of light and individual climate control ensures you can keep at a comfortable temperature regardless of which season you’re travelling in.

A flat screen TV and infotainment system shows films and television programmes, so you can spend mornings and evenings relaxing in comfort before an exciting day ahead. Catch up with loved ones, using the suite’s telephone or the free Wi-Fi, and enjoy a drink from your minibar.

Owner's One-bedroom Suite

Some of the most sumptuous suites on European waterways, our Owners One-Bedroom Suite has it all. A separate lounge and bedroom area allows the luxury of space, from which to enjoy your complimentary continental breakfast in the morning, a drink from your fully stocked minibar or after-dinner sweet treats before bed.

Your queen-size or twin hotel-style bed will be draped in high quality linens, for the perfect night’s sleep, plus you’ll have the pleasure of selecting your preferred pillow from our extensive menu. Get comfortable for the night after a busy day exploring, and prepare for the next as you unwind with a film on your flat screen TV and infotainment system in true comfort.

A walk-in wardrobe makes unpacking even more of a dream. A great space to keep all your belongings and outfits for special occasions, such as your exclusive dinner at the Captain’s Table. You’ll even have the option to have four items laundered a day to ensure that favourite dress or suit is in the best possible condition for your event.

In the morning, enjoy the perfect wake-up call with a fresh coffee from your in-suite Nespresso™ machine. Sip it on the balcony, wrapped in the comfort of your Emerald Cruises bathrobe and slippers after a refreshing shower in your stylish in-suite bathroom, enhanced by luxurious toiletries.

You’ll have so much to tell your loved ones back home, so we’ve made keeping in contact really easy. Not only will you have an in-suite telephone, but complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the Star-Ship and an iPad means you can choose your favourite method of communication, whenever the moment suits.

Four suites available on-board Emerald Sky, Emerald Star, Emerald Destiny, Emerald Sun, Emerald Dawn and Emerald Luna sailing the Rhine, Main, Danube and Moselle rivers. Two available on Emerald Liberté sailing through France and Emerald Radiance sailing in Portugal.

The images shown are for illustration purposes only and may not be an exact representation of what you find on the ship.

Reflections Restaurant

With open seating and elegant design, Reflections Restaurant sets the benchmark in on board dining across our luxury yacht and fleet of boutique Star-Ships. Here, savour delightful chef-prepared meals for breakfast, lunch and dinner, with dishes inspired by local flavours and a few favourites you may recognise from home.

The Terrace

A beautifully decked area at the front of our Yacht and Star-Ships, The Terrace provides a lovely retreat from which to enjoy a light snack or refreshing drink. Depending on the ship, this partly indoor and outdoor space is a spectacular vantage point from which to soak up the scenery, whatever the weather. This peaceful setting is also a great spot to enjoy a glass of local wine or beer with your loved ones or new-found companions as the wonders of Europe and Asia pass you by – what could be better.

The images shown are for illustration purposes only and may not be an exact representation of what you find on the ship.

Horizon Bar and Lounge

The Horizon Bar & Lounge is the social heartbeat of our Star-Ships. Surprisingly spacious and exceedingly modern, this contemporary and comfortable haven is one of the most popular areas of our vessels day or night.

There's a fully stocked bar with attentive bartenders, help-yourself to a selection of coffees from out high-tech coffee-machine, or try one of our speciality teas, and take a seat in our plush and spacious sofas and chairs. In the day it's a place to catch up with new friends and unwind.

Each evening before dinner, your Cruise Director welcomes you to the Horizon Bar and Lounge for an informal yet fascinating talk on your forthcoming ports of call. With tips on what you'll see and things to look out for, this is an ideal opportunity to plan for the day ahead. When the evening arrives, we have a medley of entertainment planned especially for you.

The images shown are for illustration purposes only and may not be an exact representation of what you find on the ship.

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Holiday Summary

	Return flights including luggage allowance
	Overseas Transfers
	7 nights cruising on the Danube
	Return airport transfers
	Wine, beer & soft drinks with lunch & dinner
	Gratuities Included
	One complimentary shore excursion in every port
	Bikes for passenger use
	Free Wi-Fi included
	Port Taxes and Fees
	ABTA and ATOL Protection*

	Oceanview	Balcony	Suite
	(All prices are £GBP per person)
Sun 1st Dec 202401 Dec 24	Please call for availability