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.

Included Features:

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