Christmas Time On The Danube
December 2nd to 8th, 2024
Enter a stunning world of cherished Christmas traditions along the Danube River. Board your Avalon Suite Ship® in Nuremberg, Germany, with its medieval fortifications, gothic churches, and palaces. The Old Town is illuminated with festive lights and decorations and the Christmas market, one of the most famous in the world, has dozens of stalls offering traditional wares, such as Lebkuchen (spiced gingerbread), Glühwein (hot mulled wine), and unique decorations and ornaments. Learn about local Christmas traditions, and cruise to historical Regensburg, the only German city not bombed during WWII. Experience Passau’s charming Christmas market set against the breathtaking backdrop of St. Stephen’s Cathedral—a masterpiece of baroque architecture.
Arrive in lovely Melk, Austria, and tour the magnificent 11th century Benedictine Abbey—one of Europe’s largest monasteries. As you cruise through the wintery landscape of the picturesque Wachau Valley, enjoy the view with a tasting of traditional Austrian cookies. This Christmas river cruise ends in Austria’s magical capital of Vienna, home to the sounds of Mozart, Strauss, and the Vienna Boys’ Choir. See the famous sights with a Local Guide and enjoy a tour through the Christmas markets to get a taste of all the best flavors Austria offers during this sparkling time of year on the Danube River.
Itinerary
Day 1 - Nuremberg (Embarkation):Onboard welcome reception
Day 2 - Nuremberg: Choice of guided tour or Nuremberg Rally Grounds tour; Christmas market
Day 3 - Regensburg: Guided tour; Christmas markets; onboard Christmas Traditions lecture
Day 4 - Passau: Guided tour; Christmas market
Day 5 - Melk–Wachau Valley–Vienna: Guided visit of the Benedictine Abbey; scenic cruising through the Wachau Valley; onboard Austrian cookies tasting; free time in Vienna.
Day 6 - Vienna: City sightseeing; Christmas market
Day 7 - Vienna (Disembarkation): Your cruise ends this morning.
Included in the Ship
Complimentary Wi-Fi
Panoramic windows
Elegant, contemporary design & décor
Friendly, English-speaking crew & Cruise Director
Sky Deck with whirlpool, shade awnings, game area and premium lounges
Covered Observation Lounge
Club Lounge with 24-hour self-serve beverage station with complimentary cappuccinos, lattes, tea, hot chocolate & premium coffees, as well as treats throughout the day
Suites and Staterooms
Comfort Collection BedsSM with choice of mattress firmness
Egyptian super-combed cotton linens
Bathrobes & slippers
Premium L'Occitane bath products
Large bathroom featuring shower with glass door.
Flatscreen satellite TV with free movie channels
Individual climate control and in-room safe
USB Ports
And, much more
Dining
Avalon FlexDining® for more venue and seating options, including flexible seating times in our Panorama Dining Room
Avalon Fresh® healthy cuisine options at every meal
Complimentary sparkling wine with breakfast; wine, beer, or soft drinks with every lunch and dinner
Daily a la carte breakfast with full range of classic breakfast items, healthy Avalon Fresh® options and daily specials
Daily lunch buffet featuring regional specialties, classic dishes, healthy Avalon Fresh® options and rotating chef’s features including carving & pasta stations. Alternatively, you may dine al fresco at our Sky Grill on the Sky Deck (weather and itinerary permitting) or enjoy a light lunch in the Panorama Lounge.
Daily Afternoon Tea featuring tea, coffee, sweet treats & sandwiches.
Daily four-course a la carte dinner in the Panorama Dining Room with choice of appetizers, soups, salads, entrees, and desserts. Includes selections of regional recipes, Western dishes, and vegetarian options.
Enjoy a tasting menu with a view in the Panorama Bistro - a less formal "sit-down" atmosphere while lingering over several satisfying selections.
Welcome & farewell cocktails with sparkling wine and canapés.
Panorama Lounge featuring premium spirits and Avalon specialty cocktails, along with local entertainment special guests.
Cocktails available on the Sky Deck
Fresh fruit available throughout the day
Pricing
Pricing for the river cruise is locked in for my guests as follows:
Category D (window only) - 3884 per person including taxes and gratuities.
Category B (French balcony) - 4955 CAD per person including taxes and gratuities.
Higher categories are available upon request.
Deposit amount: Only 250 pp - final payment is not due until September 3, 2024.
Cruise Includes: accommodations on the beautiful Avalon illumination, five-star dining onboard, 2 included shore excursion options per stop, local regional wine and beers served with all meals as well as included staff gratuities.
Optional land extensions are available in Munich and/or Prague. Ask your travel consultant for details.