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.
Itinerary
1
NUREMBERG, GERMANY (EMBARKATION)
2
NUREMBERG
3
REGENSBURG
4
PASSAU
5
MELK, AUSTRIA - VIENNA
6
VIENNA
7
VIENNA (DISEMBARKATION)
ship features
Elegant, contemporary design
Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Windows
Sky Deck with premium lounge chairs, whirlpool, shade awnings, & outdoor deck game area
Outside viewing deck
Spacious, open-seating Panorama Dining Room
Well-stocked library with books, cards, and board games
Panorama Lounge & Bar with premium spirits, cozy seating, panoramic windows & dance floor
Onboard Adventure Center with active gear, bikes/e-bikes, Nordic walking sticks, & maps
Fitness center
Complimentary Starlink Wi-Fi access throughout the ship
Al fresco lunch in the Sky Grill
Non-smoking staterooms & ship interior
Convenient Elevator Service
English-speaking friendly crew, staff & professional Cruise Director
Choice of Classic, Active or Discovery excursions so that you can experience your cruise your way
Complimentary headsets to hear every word of excursion commentary from your Local Guide
Onshore & Onboard experiences with regional customs, cultures & tastings with local artisans, experts & entertainers
Virtual DJ Music System playing hits from 60s, 70s, 80s, 90s, and today.
Flatscreen satellite TV with English-speaking channels & over 50 free movie options
Onboard assistance is available to recommend, reserve and further personalize your cruise
Chef-prepared onboard meals with regional cuisine and familiar favorites
Seasonal cuisine featuring the freshest local ingredients
Daily buffet breakfast with full range of classic breakfast items, healthy Avalon Fresh options and daily a la carte specials
Complimentary room service for Continental breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Daily lunch buffet with regional and classic dishes, Avalon Fresh® options, and chef specialties, including carving & pasta stations
Afternoon Tea featuring tea, coffee, and sweet treats
Four-course dinners with choice of appetizers, soups, salads, entrées and desserts or cheese
Linger over several selections from the Panorama Bistro's tasting menu for a less formal "sit-down" atmosphere
Complimentary wine, beer, or soft drinks with lunch and dinner
Avalon Fresh healthy cuisine options at every meal
FlexDining flexible dining times with menu & venue options
Options at every meal to accommodate dietary requirements, including vegan, vegetarian, gluten-free, dairy-free, plus dishes may be prepared upon request to accommodate food sensitivities and allergies
Welcome & farewell cocktails with sparkling wine & canapés
Included Happy Hour every evening featuring house beer, wine, cocktails and a drink of the day
Cocktails with a view on the Sky Deck
Specialty coffees, espresso drinks and beWell Essence flavored and infused water available throughout each day
What's included (see above for all of the features):
Your cruise accomodations
All meals onboard
Beer, wine and soft drinks with lunch and dinner
Daily Happy Hour with beer, wine, and cocktails
Specialty coffee drinks and infused water
Daily excursions, 3 styles to choose from (Classic, Active, and Discovery)
WiFi and Gratuities
What's not included:
Flights, but I can book those for you and we can also book through Avalon
Hotels pre and post-cruise, I can book this for you as well
Travel Protection - which I highly recommend and will provide a link for you to research