Enjoy the festive atmosphere of 1,000-year-old Prague and all along the legendary Danube on this enchanting vacation. Delight in the sights, smells, and tastes of local Christmas markets in Nuremberg, Regensburg, and Vienna as Local Guides introduce you to these exciting cities. Be sure to sample the Gluhwein, Lebkuchen, and other traditional holiday specialties!
INCLUDED FEATURES
Cruise:
Deluxe 5-night cruise from Nuremberg to Frankfurt in an outside stateroom with hotel-style beds
Prague:
Guided sightseeing, Astronomical Clock, visit Hradcany Castle
Nuremberg:
Welcome reception; guided sightseeing
Bamberg:
Guided sightseeing, Old Town Hall
Wurzburg:
Guided sightseeing, visit the Residenz; excursion to Rothenburg
Wertheim:
Orientation
Miltenberg:
Guided sightseeing; baking demonstration
Notes:
Christmas markets operate from late November until December 25 (Prague markets are open from early December until the first days of January).In the event of water level problems on stretches of any river, it may be necessary to operate part of the itinerary by motorcoach.
MEALS
Buffet breakfast daily (B) in Prague; superb dining with all meals on board daily featuring full breakfast (B), lunch (L), and dinner (D), including a welcome reception, welcome dinner, and Captain's dinner; quality wines from Europe's most famous wine regions with every dinner; one sitting with open seating arrangements
SUPERIOR HOTELS
Prague Hilton (SF)
INSIDE VISITS
Inside visits and special features are shown in the description, including admission charges when applicable.
Itinerary
Day 1
Board your overnight transatlantic flight.
Days 2-3Prague, Czech Republic
Prague is a 1,000-year-old city preserved in time. It straddles the Vltava River with domes, cupolas, spires and pinnacles highlighting its skyline. See its best-known treasures such as the Old Town's ASTRONOMICAL CLOCK, once the envy of all of Europe; HRADCANY CASTLE; St. Vitus Cathedral; and the Charles Bridge. Browse the shops for hand-cut crystal or art books and stroll through the Christmas markets. Rows of brightly decorated wooden huts sell Christmas tree ornaments, wooden toys, and Czech handicrafts. Get a little inner warmth with a cup of svarene vino (hot mulled wine) and a traditional hot sausage from one of the stalls. The beautifully decorated tree in the Old Town is an impressive sight. Christmas is the most important family holiday of the year in most Eastern European countries, and the Czechs begin their preparations and celebrations on December 4 with the feast of St. Barbara. (B on Day 3)
Day 4Prague-Nuremberg, Germany (Embarkation)
After lunch, drive to Nuremberg where the crew of your vessel awaits to welcome you on board. (B,D)
Day 5Nuremberg
Although Nuremberg suffered extensive damage during WWII, much of it was restored to its original style. Marvel at this historic city with its fabulous gothic churches and elegant patrician houses. Nuremberg hosts Germany's most famous Christmas market, which dates back to 1628; the Old Town is illuminated with festive lights and decorations. The city's traditions include famous Lebkuchen, toy making, and metal working. (B,L,D)
Day 6Regensburg
Regensburg is one of Germany's best preserved medieval cities. Architectural highlights included on your tour are the Old Town Hall, the beautiful white and gold OLD CHAPEL, and the Porta Pretoria-gates to an ancient Roman fort built in 179 AD. The city is the capital of Upper Palatinate, a bustling university town, and one of Bavaria's cultural centers. The Christmas market is located on the historic market square. Germany is famous for its sausages and Regensburg is home to the country's oldest restaurant, Historische Wurstkuche (the Old Sausage Kitchen), dating back to the 12th century. Before dinner we'll introduce you to some of Germany's best-known beers. (B,L,D)
Day 7Passau-Linz, Austria
Passau, ideally located at the confluence of the Rivers Inn, Ilz, and Danube, is a city of graceful arcades and cobblestone streets. St. Stephen's Cathedral houses the world's largest church organ with more than 17,000 pipes. An optional full-day excursion to Salzburg takes in the popular Sound of Music sights as well as more Christmas cheer-the traditional carols, the sparkling lights, and the smell of candles and gingerbread! Linz, Austria's third-largest town, lies on both banks of the Danube and is an important industrial town and busy river port. (B,L,D)
Day 8Melk-Vienna
Melk's magnificent BENEDICTINE ABBEY dominates the town from its commanding hill site and is one of Europe's largest monasteries. The view from the terrace over the Danube and surrounding countryside is breathtaking! This evening, arrive in Vienna, known as the "City of Music," which inspired the creative genius of Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss. An optional concert is available tonight. (B,L,D)
Day 9Vienna
Once the center of the mighty Habsburg Empire, Austria's capital has much to offer: the lavish Hofburg Palace, the impressive Vienna Opera House, the majestic Ring Boulevard, and awe-inspiring St. Stephen's Cathedral, to name just a few of the sights you will enjoy on your city tour. You do not rush through Vienna; you waltz, taking your time to savor each classic sight and sound. Shop in the Karnterstrasse and enjoy Sachertorte or Apfelstrudel in a neighborhood cafe. Soak up the atmosphere of the Adventszeit (Advent season) and spend some time in the beautiful Christmas markets located throughout the city. (B,L,D)
Day 10Vienna (Disembarkation)
Your homebound flight arrives the same day. (B)
AIRPORT TRANSFERS
Airport transfers may be included when you make your flight arrangements.
