Christmas Markets of Europe & Paris 2025|2026 - 18 Days (from Budapest to Paris)

Arrive in the vibrant city of Budapest, where your luxurious Emerald Cruises Star-Ship awaits. After a warm welcome from the captain and crew, settle in and prepare for an enchanting evening. Enjoy an authentic Hungarian folklore show on board, immersing yourself in the rich cultural traditions of this cosmopolitan city.

Explore the contrasting sides of Budapest, with Buda's elegant landmarks and Pest's historical charm. Cross the iconic Chain Bridge and delve into the city's rich history on a guided tour. Enjoy some free time to wander through the bustling Christmas Market, soaking in the festive atmosphere.

Discover the Slovakian capital of Bratislava, where cobblestone streets lead to magnificent Baroque palaces. Join a local guide for a walking tour, passing the Renaissance courtyard of the Old Town Hall and the picturesque gardens of the Episcopal Summer Palace. Later, enjoy a warm welcome into a local family's home for coffee and traditional sweet treats.

Immerse yourself in the cultural richness of Vienna, a city that has inspired countless composers. Embark on a guided tour by coach and on foot, passing iconic imperial palaces and the renowned Vienna State Opera. Discover the city's architectural marvels along the Ringstrasse, a testament to Vienna's historical grandeur.

Begin your day with a hike in the picturesque town of Dürnstein, then relax on the Sun Deck as you sail through the UNESCO-listed Wachau Valley to Melk. Here, a guided tour of the 900-year-old Melk Abbey awaits, where you'll explore its ancient library and medieval manuscripts.

Explore the charming city of Passau, where the Danube, Inn, and Ilz rivers converge. Join a local guide for a tour through the city's romantic lanes, stopping to admire the hilltop Oberhaus Fortress and the magnificent St. Stephen's Cathedral, home to Europe's largest church organ.

Step back in time in Regensburg, one of Germany's best-preserved medieval cities. A guided tour will lead you through the UNESCO-listed Old Town, showcasing historic patrician houses. Visit the Christmas Market inside the Thurn und Taxis Palace grounds, then enjoy a Bavarian band performance on board.

Uncover the historical wonders of Nuremberg, a city that has inspired artists for generations. A guided sightseeing tour will introduce you to its architectural marvels, followed by free time to explore the city's reconstructed houses and vibrant atmosphere at your own pace.

Discover the UNESCO World Heritage-listed town of Bamberg, renowned for its medieval charm. A guided tour will take you through the town's historic center, past the opulent New Residence and the commanding Altenburg Castle, offering a glimpse into the town's rich history.

Explore Würzburg, the gateway to Bavaria's Romantic Road. Visit the UNESCO-listed Würzburg Residence, a masterpiece of Baroque architecture, and enjoy a guided walking tour of the city, including the Gothic Marienkapelle and the historic Town Hall.

Visit the picturesque village of Miltenberg, a quintessential example of Bavarian life. Enjoy a guided tour through its cobblestone streets, then attend an exclusive glassblowing presentation at the Glass Art Museum in Wertheim, showcasing the region's artistic heritage.

Cruise along the Rhine to Cologne, a city with a rich 2,000-year history. Join a guided walking tour through the Old Town, passing ancient bridges and the iconic Cologne Cathedral. In the evening, enjoy a farewell dinner on board, celebrating the journey's end.

Board a glass-top canal boat for a cruise through Amsterdam's UNESCO-listed canal system, admiring the elegant merchant residences. Afterward, enjoy free time to explore the city at your leisure, discovering its vibrant culture and history.

Discover the iconic landmarks of Paris with a local guide, including the majestic Notre Dame Cathedral and the Arc de Triomphe. Enjoy a scenic river cruise along the Seine, concluding at the iconic Eiffel Tower, offering a unique perspective of the city.

Enjoy a day of independent exploration in Paris. Visit the Louvre to see the Mona Lisa, stroll down the Champs-Elysées adorned with festive lights, or be captivated by the enchanting displays at Galleries Lafayette. Your tour director is available to assist with planning your day.