Danube Christmas Markets (Start Budapest, End Nuremberg)

Your European adventure begins in the beautiful city of Budapest, the capital of Hungary. Arrive and settle into your luxurious Scenic Space-Ship, your home for the next eight days. Unpack and unwind as you prepare for the exciting journey ahead. In the evening, join the welcome reception and toast to the unforgettable experiences that await.

Spend the day exploring the architectural treasures of Budapest, a city divided by the Danube into Buda and Pest. Take a coach tour of the city, visiting the Várkert Bazár on the Buda side and Széchenyi square and Elizabeth square on the Pest side. Enjoy free time to explore the city's Christmas markets, particularly around St Stephens Basilica. Alternatively, strap on your walking shoes for a guided hike to Buda Hill, offering stunning views over the city and the Danube River.

Wake up to the charming villages and sites as you sail towards Vienna, Austria's imperial capital. Known for its magnificent Baroque buildings, vibrant coffee-house culture, and masterpiece-filled galleries and museums, Vienna is a city that oozes charm. In the evening, experience the opulence of Palais Liechtenstein with 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.

Immerse yourself in the grandeur of Vienna, exploring the world's most beautiful boulevard, The Ringstrasse, adorned with dazzling Christmas lights and decorations. Choose from a selection of activities: explore Schönbrunn Palace, the former summer residence of the Habsburg family, and its Christmas Markets; take a guided e-bike tour to Danube Island, a recreational playground for locals; or visit the Belvedere Museum, home to a stunning collection of Austrian and international art. Spend the afternoon at your leisure, perhaps exploring more Christmas markets or simply relaxing on board your Scenic Space-Ship.

Dock early in the morning in the charming town of Dürnstein, surrounded by vineyards and home to the hilltop ruins of Dürnstein Castle. Enjoy some free time exploring this captivating town before cruising towards Melk. Choose from a variety of activities: embark on a guided e-bike ride to Melk, visit the magnificent 18th-century Benedictine Abbey in Melk, or learn about Schnapps production and enjoy a tasting in the nearby town of Weissenkirchen. As you indulge in the spectacular views, sample some local delicacies from the Wachau Valley.

Today, choose between two full-day excursions. Journey to Salzburg, the home of Mozart and The Sound of Music, and explore its Baroque old town, Hohensalzburg fortress, and thriving art scene. Alternatively, visit the UNESCO World Heritage town of Cesky Krumlov in the Czech Republic, known for its well-preserved Gothic, Renaissance, and Baroque architecture. After a day of exploration, return to your Scenic Space-Ship in the town of Vilshofen.

Arrive in Regensburg, a city boasting a 2,000-year history and one of Germany's best-preserved medieval town centres. Explore the city's narrow laneways, filled with bars and fringed by the Bavarian Forest. Visit the old stone bridge, the Church of St James, and the Porta Praetoria, and learn about the region's customs and traditions during the festive period.

Your enchanting European journey concludes in the bustling city of Nuremberg. After a hearty breakfast, you'll be transferred to the airport for your onward or homebound flight, taking with you a lifetime of wonderful memories. Please book your flight to depart out of Nuremberg after 12:00 PM.