Two hotel nights in Munich and deluxe six-night Danube River cruise. Join us at this most festive time of year to visit the very best Christmas Markets along the Danube River. Explore sleepy little towns and riverscapes, warm yourself with a delicious glass of mulled wine and immerse yourself in the wonderful traditions of the holiday season. Even if you’ve done the Danube in summer, the Christmas-time experience is one not to be missed — it’s magical!
Day 1: December 2, 2019 – Munich, Germany
Upon arrival to Munich’s Franz Josef Strauss Airport (MUC), you will be met by our representatives and transferred to the Hotel Vier Jahreszeiten Kempinski Munich. After settling into your room, take some time to explore the city on your own. Your city-centre hotel is well-situated to visit the Christmas market at Marienplatz. This evening, meet your fellow travelers at a festive welcome reception.
Day 2: December 3, 2019 – Munich, Germany
Today, a drive through Germany’s picturesque countryside brings us to Neuschwanstein. It is one of three castles built by ‘mad’ Ludwig II of Bavaria, who was born in 1845 and died in 1886. Its Neo-Romanesque architecture imitates that of a medieval castle and, in turn, Neuschwanstein was the inspiration for Disney’s Magic Kingdom. The natural splendor of the surrounding Alps provide the perfect backdrop for this iconic fairytale wonder. (B/L)
Day 3: December 4, 2019 – Munich/Nuremberg, Germany
Following breakfast at the hotel, we embark on a morning tour exploring the highlights of Munich. We take you to Königsplatz, past famous art museums and along the magnificent avenues Ludwigand and Prinzregentenstraße with their significant buildings and museums, including Ludwig’s Church, the Theatiner Church, the Feldherrenhalle (Hall of Generals), the House of Arts, the Bavarian National Museum, as well as the impressive statue Angel of Peace overlooking the city. We also visit Maximilian Street, which leads to the Residence and National Theatre/Opera House among many other famous places.
Following lunch on your own, we travel from Munich to Nuremberg to board our comfortable home for the next six nights, the river boat Amadeus Star. Tonight we enjoy a festive “welcome aboard” dinner. (B/D)
Day 4: December 5, 2019 – Nuremberg, Germany
This morning, visit the Bavarian town of Nuremberg. The tour will take you to the most significant monuments and sights in picturesque Nuremberg. Don’t miss the opportunity to visit the romantic Christmas market and taste the world-famous Nuremberg lebkuchen (gingerbread) before returning to your ship, where we begin our journey down river, across the Continental Divide. (B/L/D)
Day 5: December 6, 2019 – Regensburg, Germany
A full day is spent in festively adorned, historic Regensburg. This magical destination where time seems to stand still, is best explored during a morning guided sightseeing walk. After lunch, explore on your own or opt to join an excursion to the Christmas market in the royal Thurn and Taxis Castle. Revel in the festive pre-Christmas atmosphere filled with the aroma of roasted almonds and stalls filled with local handicrafts. (B/L/D)
Day 6: December 7, 2019 – Passau, Germany
During breakfast, arrive in Passau, also known as the “City of Three Rivers”, situated at the confluence of the Danube, Inn and Ilz Rivers. In the morning, enjoy the romantic old town with its historic buildings during the course of a guided walk. The afternoon is a perfect time to visit the traditional Passau Christmas market. Early this evening your ship will depart this lovely city and head towards Melk. (B/L/D)
Day 7: December 8, 2019 – Melk/Dürnstein/Vienna, Austria
In the morning, we reach the UNESCO World Natural Heritage region of the Wachau. Here you’ll enjoy an excursion to Melk Abbey and Dürnstein. Afterwards, defy the weather and join us for a mug of warming glühwein (mulled wine), after which you will return to your ship.
The rest of the day is spent on board, where you will have a wonderful view of the passing winter landscapes as your cruise ship travels towards Vienna.
In the evening, we recommend that music lovers attend the atmospheric “Sound of Vienna” concert, which will present a kaleidoscope of Viennese classical music. (B/L/D)
Day 8: December 9, 2019 – Vienna, Austria
Enjoy exploring wintery Vienna today! A morning city sightseeing tour in a comfortable bus takes you past the most beautiful sights of the Austrian capital. In the afternoon, you have the opportunity to tour the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace, as well as to visit the traditional, romantic Christmas market in front of the palace. (B/L/D)
Day 9: December 10, 2019 – Vienna, Austria
Your Christmas Markets cruise concludes this morning with disembarkation after breakfast and an airport transfer to Vienna airport. Or, you may wish to extend your stay in this glorious city. (B)
Package Includes:
- Guaranteed all-LGBT charter
- 2 Nights Hotel Accommodation in Munich including daily Buffet Breakfast
- Escorted tour to Neuschwanstein Castle
- ½ day guided walking tour in Munich
- Transfer from the Hotel in Munich to the Ship in Nuremberg
- 6 Nights Cruise Accommodation
- Complimentary beer, wine, spirits and non-alcoholic beverages throughout the cruise
- Superb Dining: all meals included during your cruise
- Services of an experienced cruise director and Brand g host throughout the cruise
- Complimentary shore excursions offered daily
- Brand g signature entertainment
- “Sounds of Vienna” concert and visit to Schunbrunn Palace with Christmas market
- Airport transfers in Munich (MUC) and Vienna (VIE)
