Christmas Markets - Rhine Gorge > Rüdesheim

Begin your journey in the vibrant city of Budapest, the capital of Hungary and one of Europe's oldest and prettiest cities. In the afternoon, board your all-inclusive luxury Scenic Space-Ship and settle into your suite. Many suites feature a window that converts into a Scenic Sun Lounge, offering uninterrupted views of the ever-changing landscapes and life along the riverbanks. Relax and raise your glass to the days ahead at this evening's welcome reception.

Explore the magical city of Budapest by coach, visiting both Buda and Pest, the two districts separated by the Danube. Start on the Buda side and see the Várkert Bazár before crossing the Margaret Bridge to the Pest side where you will see Széchenyi square and Elizabeth square. Visit the Fisherman’s Bastion and Matthias Church before exploring the Hospital in the Rock, a former top-secret nuclear bunker and emergency hospital. Relax in the natural hot springs at Gellert Baths or hike up to the World Heritage-listed site of Buda Hill. Your Scenic Space-Ship departs for Vienna later this afternoon, so make the most of your free time exploring this magical city.

Wake up to the charming villages and sites you're passing by while sailing to Vienna. Austria's imperial capital oozes charm with magnificent Baroque buildings, ample green spaces, a vibrant coffee-house culture, and masterpiece-filled galleries and museums. In the evening, breathe in the opulence and luxury of Palais Liechtenstein as you relish an exclusive private classical concert. Enjoy a glass of fine Austrian Sekt and listen to the timeless music of Strauss and Mozart performed by a renowned Orchestra.

Explore Vienna your way with a selection of activities. Visit Schönbrunn Palace, the former summer residence of the Habsburg family, explore a different side of Vienna on a guided e-bike tour to Danube Island, or take a city tour of Vienna, overflowing with history, elegance, and diverse architecture. Wander along the Ringstrasse, see the many galleries and museums, visit St. Stephens Cathedral, or simply enjoy your time visiting the numerous popular Christmas Markets that adorn the city.

Dock early in the quaint town of Dürnstein, surrounded by vineyards and historical buildings. Enjoy some free time exploring this captivating town before cruising towards Melk. Choose from a variety of excursions, including a guided e-bike ride to Melk, a tour of the magnificent 18th-century Benedictine Abbey in Melk, or a schnapps tasting in the nearby town of Weissenkirchen. In the afternoon, while docked in Melk, enjoy a special treat of local produce tasting.

Choose from two full-day excursions today. Journey via coach to Salzburg, Austria, known as the home of Mozart and The Sound of Music. Explore this incredible city, enjoy lunch at a local restaurant, and explore the thriving Christmas markets. Alternatively, journey to the Czech town of Cesky Krumlov, a UNESCO World Heritage town brimming with charm. Wander this fairy-tale location with your local guide and explore the historic centre before delighting in a delicious lunch at a local restaurant.

Arrive in Regensburg after lunch. Boasting a staggering 2,000-year history, Regensburg has one of Germany's best-preserved medieval town centres. Explore the city on a walking tour, seeing the old stone bridge, the Church of St James, and the Porta Praetoria. Your tour will end at the lively Christmas Markets, where you will have free time to delight in the festive atmosphere.

Arrive in Nuremberg, Bavaria's second-largest city, after lunch. Choose from a walking tour of the Old Town, a tour exploring the horrific events that occurred in Nuremberg during Germany's Nazi regime, or a traditional gingerbread cooking class. Whether you're exploring the city's history, indulging in culinary delights, or simply soaking up the festive atmosphere, Nuremberg offers a wealth of experiences.

Arrive in the UNESCO-listed town of Bamberg, built on seven hills and intersected by rivers and canals. Tour the Old Town, one of Europe's largest intact city centres, featuring a range of stunning Medieval and Baroque buildings. After lunch, your Space-Ship sets sail towards Würzburg, the perfect opportunity to enjoy your time in the wellness centre with a soothing massage.

Arrive in the Baroque city of Würzburg, straddling the Main River in the heart of Franconian wine country. Choose from a guided city tour visiting the Würzburg Residence, a Baroque palace surrounded by manicured gardens, or a full-day excursion to Rothenburg, famous for its well-preserved medieval old town. Explore the fabulous Christmas markets and warm your body and spirit with a glass of traditional Gluhwein or some local Franconian wine.

Arrive in the historic town of Wertheim, sitting on the picturesque banks of the Main and Tauber Rivers. Choose from a variety of excursions, including a tour of Wertheim and a local winery, a tour of Gamburg Castle, a visit to a local farm and the town of Miltenberg, a schnapps tasting in Miltenberg, or an e-bike cycle from Miltenberg to Wertheim. After touring, you will embark your luxury Space-Ship in Miltenberg and set sail for Rüdesheim.

Disembark in Rüdesheim, a pretty town surrounded by steep vineyards that have been cultivating wine for two millennia. Take a mini train to Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum, where some 350 musical instruments from the 18th and 19th century play themselves for your enjoyment. Spend the rest of the afternoon wandering the charming streets lined with thriving bars, cafes, and Christmas markets.

Arrive in Cologne, a city known for its liberal and laidback lifestyle, unique beer culture, auto industry, and the jaw-dropping cathedral that dominates its skyline. Discover Cologne on a walking tour, wander the laneways of the historical Old Town, and enjoy free time to visit the city's centrepiece and icon, Cologne Cathedral. The Cathedral is also the location for magnificent Christmas Markets, where local vendors sell delicious treats and decorations.

Arrive in Amsterdam, a treasure trove of architectural beauty and masterpiece-filled galleries. Choose from a canal cruise, a city walking tour tasting some delicious local treats, a cycling tour, or an excursion to Schermerhorn and Alkmaar. Whether you're exploring the city's canals, indulging in culinary delights, or venturing outside the city, Amsterdam offers a wealth of experiences.

Disembark in Amsterdam this morning after a farewell breakfast, taking with you a lifetime of memories. This marks the end of your journey, but the beginning of a lifetime of fond memories from your magical European Christmas tour.