Travelpack

Budapest (overnight) • Bratislava • Vienna • Budapest (overnight)

Step into a real-life snow globe, where twinkling lights and storybook cities line the magical Danube River. This festive cruise begins in Budapest, the “Pearl of the Danube,” where grand architecture and charming Christmas markets set the tone. Sailing through scenic winter landscapes, you’ll explore the cosy streets of Bratislava before arriving in the imperial elegance of Vienna, famous for its music, history, and magical holiday markets. With guided tours, gourmet dining, and enchanting onboard moments, the journey returns to Budapest for a perfect festive finale filled with warmth, culture, and holiday cheer.

Day 1 & 2: Budapest
Flight from London Heathrow Airport to Budapest Ferihegy Intl. Airport
Shared Transfer Airport to Port
Your journey begins in the "Pearl of the Danube," where a coach transfers you to your five-star cruise ship. After a warm welcome from your professional crew and a delightful first dinner on board, you can enjoy a moonlit stroll through Budapest's charismatic, wintry streets. The following morning, a guided tour reveals the city's architectural majesty, from the iconic Parliament Building to the ancient Castle District. You'll have free time to immerse yourself in the enchanting Christmas markets, where the scent of gingerbread and mulled wine fills the crisp air against a backdrop of grand Art Nouveau spires. In the afternoon, the adventure truly begins as the ship slips its moorings. Relax in the panoramic lounge or head to the deck to witness the breathtaking Danube Bend, where the river carves through a narrow, snow-dusted valley. This "Christmas card" scenery provides a perfect transition into the evening, allowing you to enjoy a festive aperitif and another gourmet dinner as the fairytale landscape glides silently by.

Day 3: Bratislava
Upon arrival in Bratislava, Slovakia's vibrant capital, you'll discover a city that has beautifully reclaimed its imperial heritage. This morning's guided tour explores the beautifully restored Baroque old town and the commanding white fortress that watches over the Danube. You'll encounter historic gems like the Gothic St. Martin's Cathedral, the elegant Primates Palace, and the Neo-Renaissance Old Opera House. After a relaxing lunch on board, the afternoon is yours to wander the atmospheric maze of streets, where the scent of cinnamon and the glow of twinkling fairy lights lead you to the main square. Here, the charming Christmas market offers a treasure trove of artisan gifts, from delicate wooden figurines to local pottery. For a unique perspective, you might climb the Old Town Hall tower for a birds-eye view of the festive bustle below. Be sure to sample a traditional poppy-seed strudel or savoury potato pancake before returning to the ship. As evening falls, enjoy another gourmet dinner on board as we slip away from the shore and continue our scenic journey toward the imperial grandeur of Vienna.

Day 4: Vienna
Wake up to the imperial grandeur of Vienna, a city that evokes the spirit of Christmas like no other. After breakfast, a guided tour showcases the city's magnificent heritage, including the iconic St. Stephen's Cathedral and the vast Hof burg complex, home to the Spanish Riding School. Vienna truly comes alive through its legendary Christmas markets, a tradition dating back to the Middle Ages. You'll have the afternoon to explore the stalls at the City Hall, where windows form a giant Advent calendar, or the Schnbrunn Palace, famous for nostalgic toys and handicrafts. Breathe in the scent of roasted chestnuts and nutmeg while a brass band plays festive carols, perhaps pausing for a steaming hot chocolate in a refined Viennese café. Back on board, the evening reaches a crescendo with the prestigious Chefs Dinner, followed by a private classical string quartet recital. Listening to these timeless masterpieces in the city of their creation provides the ultimate "icing on the cake" to a magical day before the ship continues its journey.

Day 5 & 6: Budapest
Waking to a landscape draped in glistening frost, you'll enjoy a final morning of relaxation as the ship glides through a winter wonderland toward the Hungarian capital. You can settle into a comfy chair to watch the scenery, visit the fitness centre, or join a festive onboard demonstration to learn the secrets of traditional Stollen-making. As the majestic Budapest skyline comes into view during lunch, the afternoon is yours to explore the city's heart at Vorosmarty Square. Here, rustic wooden stalls offer unique treasures amidst the enticing aroma of honey cookies and traditional chimney cake. Whether you're browsing the markets or sipping a final mug of spiced Glühwein on the sun deck, the festive atmosphere is palpable. Your final evening on board provides the perfect opportunity to toast to your journey with newly made friends in the convivial bar, recounting stories from a truly magical cruise before your departure the following morning.
Shared Transfer Port to Airport

What is included in the offer
• Return flights from Heathrow with 23kg baggage
• 5-star luxury river cruise on the Danube River
• 7-night cruise experience visiting Budapest, Bratislava, and Vienna
• Guided sightseeing tours in all major cities
• Christmas market visits and festive experiences in each destination
• Full board gourmet dining onboard (breakfast, lunch & dinner)
• Welcome cocktails, festive dinners & onboard entertainment
• Scenic cruising through the Danube Bend and winter landscapes
• Luxury onboard facilities and professional cruise crew service
• Daily onboard leisure activities and cultural experiences
• Shared transfer from port to airport

Total price inclusive of all charges:
B56974 Heathrow from £1,449pp
B57006 Gatwick from £1,449pp
B57009 Manchester from £1,449pp
B57010 Liverpool from £1,449pp

No fees payable locally

Deposit: £225pp

Based on 2 adults sharing

Meal Plans