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The Festive Spirit of Switzerland with Magnificent Europe

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Our Price From 24,237 Per Person
Exclusive Savings 458 Per Person
 Trip Length
27 Days
 Trip Starts
Zurich
 Trip Finishes
Amsterdam
27 Day The Festive Spirit of Switzerland with Magnificent Europe Itinerary (APT)
Countries Explored: Switzerland, Hungary, Austria, Slovakia, Germany, Holland
Trip Operator
Trip Style
River Cruise
Departures
Accommodation
4 - 4.5 Star
Max. Group Size
20
Guide Level
Fully Guided, Locally Guided
Trip Code
EUMCRCH27

Overview

Book online and enjoy exclusive savings on APT's 27 Day The Festive Spirit of Switzerland with Magnificent Europe. Spend the festive season in Switzerland exploring the Christmas markets of Zurich, Basel and Lucerne. Finish on a luxury Europe river cruise from Budapest to Amsterdam.

Itinerary

Welcome to Switzerland. Be met on arrival and transfer to your hotel.

Later, meet your fellow travellers at a welcome reception. Stay: Zurich Marriott Hotel

Explore Zürich on a guided tour before travelling to Basel to enjoy a Signature Experience. This evening, enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant. Stay: Basel, Hotel D (B/D)

Signature Experiences:
  • In Basel, delight in a leckerli cookie workshop. Originating in Basel, these traditional Swiss cookies were created by local spice merchants in the 1400s, and are now a popular treat and the pride of Basel. After learning how to bake like the locals do, indulge in sampling these chewy, nutty cookies flavoured with spices.

This morning, enjoy a guided tour of Basel.

Later, stop in the Swiss capital of Bern en route to Montreux. Here, your hotel, the Fairmont Le Montreux Palace, is situated in a prime position overlooking Lake Geneva and the Swiss Alps. Set out on an orientation tour of Montreux and discover the magical Christmas markets. Stay Two Nights: Fairmont Le Montreux Palace, in a guaranteed Lake View Room (B/D)

Call into the lakeside town of Vevey before a visit to Chaplin's World, dedicated to the film artist Charlie Chaplin. Here, embark on a cinematic journey through time as you enter the manoir, a beautiful home that depicts the final 25 years of Chaplin's life. You will also visit the museum's old Hollywood-style studio where you can immerse yourself in the world of silent film.

Afterwards, take a stroll around the surrounding four-hectare garden estate.

This afternoon, browse the displays of the Vevey Christmas markets. (B)

Today you will board the Golden Pass train and journey to Gstaad where you will learn why Switzerland is renowned for having some of the finest cheese in the world. Visit Kase-Grotte (the Cheese Grotto), where you'll enter the magnificent cave that houses more than 3,000 cheese varieties, which of course is followed by a tasting.

Later, reboard the Golden Pass to Zweisimmen where you will travel by coach to the quintessential Swiss resort village of Grindelwald. Here you'll stay in a traditional hotel with rooms offering stunning views over Eiger mountain. Stay Three Nights: Romantik Hotel Schweizerhof Grindelwald (B/D)

Today you will ascend 3,466 metres above sea level as you board a funicular train to Jungfraujoch. Affectionately known as the ‘Top of Europe', this climb up the Bernese Alps offers sensational views along the journey and at the summit. Here, we've organised a special Signature Experience. (B)

Signature Experiences:
  • Make the most of the fairy-tale winter setting with a private reception at the Glacier Bar.

We've set aside a full day for you to explore more of this Swiss resort village at your leisure. (B)

After breakfast, travel to Lucerne and explore this picturesque lakeside town.

This evening enjoy dinner at a traditional fondue restaurant. Stay Two Nights: Lucerne, Art Deco Hotel Montana (B/D)

Today enjoy a magical Christmas walking tour. On your tour, hear about the seasonal traditions of Lucerne while wandering the many stalls of Lucerne's Christmas markets. You'll be sure to feel the magic of the festive spirit come alive. (B)

Today you will travel to Bad Ragaz, a region renowned for its thermal springs and wine. Here, visit a family-run local winery to sample some of the wines produced on the estate, and gain an insight into how wine and other fresh produce was cultivated here over 1,000 years ago. Enjoy a light traditional lunch and later journey to the ski resort town of St Moritz. Stay Two Nights: Kempinski Grand Hotel des Bains (B/D)

Enjoy a day at leisure today. You may like to explore St Moritz or relax at your luxurious hotel and savour a spa treatment (own expense). (B/D)

Travel to the Lindt Home of Chocolate for a guided tour. Return to Zurich and browse the enchanting Christmas markets.

This evening, a farewell dinner awaits. Stay: Zurich Marriott Hotel (B/D)

Be transferred to the airport for your included flight to Budapest.

On arrival transfer you to your luxurious floating home for the next 15 days. Unpack, relax and get acquainted with your ship. Stay 14 Nights: Concerto River Ship (B/D)

Start the day with a choice of tours. This afternoon, set sail for Vienna. (B/L/D)

Freedom of Choice:
  • Perhaps take a guided discovery of Budapest and delve into its most fascinating sights. Or get into the festive spirit with a visit to two of the city's charming Christmas markets, where you'll have the chance to sample mulled wine and some local delicacies.

Take in Vienna's Ringstrasse, plus enjoy a visit to St Stephen's Cathedral.

Afterwards, wander through the Christmas markets and perhaps pick up a souvenir or two. As the scent of mulled wine and gingerbread fills the wintry air, you'll come to realise that the festive season in Europe is nothing short of magical. (B/L/D)

Spend this morning on your preferred activity and this evening on a Signature Experience. (B/L/D)

Freedom of Choice:
  • Perhaps visit the 1,441-room Schonbrunn Palace and its gardens, including the traditional Christmas market in the Parade Court. Or tick another country off your list and journey to Slovakia's Bratislava.
Signature Experiences:
  • After dinner, head to the princely family of Liechtenstein's City Palace in the heart of Vienna, where we have arranged an exclusive cocktail party and private recital, just for you. A full orchestra will perform classical masterpieces by Mozart and Strauss. You will also be enchanted by an operatic recital and a performance by some members of the Mozart Boys' Choir.

Enjoy free time to explore Durnstein, before sailing through the picturesque Wachau Valley to Melk. Here, visit the statuary-adorned Melk Abbey, one of the finest Baroque buildings in the world. (B/L/D)

Take a guided tour of Salzburg before a Signature Experience. (B/L/D)

Signature Experiences:
  • Be welcomed by a Jagdhornblaser – a hunting horn blower – into a rustic, traditional restaurant on the Gaisberg mountain overlooking Salzburg. Enjoy a welcome drink as you soak in the scenery before savouring a delicious lunch, followed by a ‘Sound of Music' show.

Discover Regensburg today. Explore its atmospheric World Heritage-listed city centre. With a history dating back to the Roman times, this incredible city was the first capital of Bavaria. (B/L/D)

Set out on a guided exploration to discover Nuremberg's history, with its Gothic churches and World War II sites.

Afterwards, explore the Christmas market, one of the oldest and most well-known Christmas markets in the world. You'll also have the opportunity to sample gluwhein, traditional German spiced wine. (B/L/D)

On arrival into Bamberg, join an exploration with a local expert to uncover everything this World Heritage-listed city has to offer. (B/L/D)

Choose from three exciting activities today. (B/L/D)

Freedom of Choice:
  • Embark on a tour of Wurzburg Residence, or perhaps journey to Rothenburg. Alternatively, join a hike to Marienberg Fortress.

Step ashore in Miltenberg today and set out on a guided exploration. Wander through cobblestoned streets and admire the town's enchanting half-timbered houses before time at leisure to explore on your own. (B/L/D)

Dock in Rudesheim, where you'll choose your activity, followed by free time to enjoy the festive atmosphere or perhaps sample a local Rudesheimer coffee in a cosy cafe. (B/L/D)

Freedom of Choice:
  • Enjoy a gondola ride or a visit to Siegfried's Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum. Alternatively, visit a historic wine cellar for a tasting of Rhine Valley wines.

Today enjoy a Signature Experience. The afternoon will be spent sailing onwards to the Netherlands. (B/L/D)

Signature Experiences:
  • Visit Namedy Castle for a morning tea and piano recital.

Arrive into Amsterdam and set out on your chosen activity. Tonight, enjoy the Captain's farewell dinner. (B/L/D)

Freedom of Choice:
  • Cruise the canals on a glass-top boat, or visit Zaanse Schans. Otherwise, stay on board and relax and unwind.

Sadly, the time has come to say goodbye and be transferred to the airport. (B)

Trip Inclusions

APT's Luxury Fleet
APT's Luxury Fleet

Partnering with AmaWaterways, APT operate their own innovative award-winning fleet of floating boutique hotels. Read more

All-inclusive. All taken care of.
All-inclusive. All taken care of.

From the moment you depart to the moment you return, everything you need is included in the trip price you pay. Read more

Luxury Service
Luxury Service

An APT cruise or tour director is always present, while local experts join you along the way. Sit back and relax while APT take care of all the details. Read more

Freedom of Choice
Freedom of Choice

Personalise your journey to suit your interest and mix and match a wide selection of cultural, culinary, historical and active experiences. Read more

Signature Experiences
Signature Experiences

These are the stand-out moments. Carefully designed to help you experience Europe in far greater depth and normally unavailable to independent travellers. Read more

Live Fully
Live Fully

With every detail taken care of behind the scenes, you’re 100% free to be whoever you want to be. Every day is yours to design. Read more

Deck Plans

 
Category E
Twin Window
 
Category D
Twin Window
Piano Deck (Deck 1)
 
Category C
Panoramic Balcony
 
Category T
Panoramic & Outside Balcony
 
Category P
Panoramic & Outside Balcony
Cello Deck (Deck 2)
 
Category Single
Panoramic Balcony
 
Category B+
Panoramic Balcony
 
Category T+
Panoramic & Outside Balcony
 
Category P+
Panoramic & Outside Balcony
 
Owners Suite+
Panoramic & Outside Balcony
Violin Deck (Deck 3)
Sun Deck (Deck 4)

Cabins

Category E (Twin Window)

Enjoy your luxurious 160 sq. ft. (14.9 sqm) accommodation featuring twin windows, deluxe hotel-style bedding with Egyptian linen, down pillows, and duvet, complemented by spacious bathrooms with multi-jet showerheads.

Each room includes a large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe, direct-dial telephone, flat-screen TV, an Entertainment on Demand system with free TV, movies, and music, complimentary internet and Wi-Fi, daily replenished bottled water, and a desk with chair, all controlled by in-room temperature settings for your comfort.

Category D (Twin Window)

Enjoy your luxurious 160 sq. ft. (14.9 sqm) accommodation featuring twin windows, deluxe hotel-style bedding with Egyptian linen, down pillows, and duvet, complemented by spacious bathrooms with multi-jet showerheads.

Each room includes a large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe, direct-dial telephone, flat-screen TV, an Entertainment on Demand system with free TV, movies, and music, complimentary internet and Wi-Fi, daily replenished bottled water, and a desk with chair, all controlled by in-room temperature settings for your comfort.

Category C (Panoramic Balcony)

Relax in your 170 sq. ft (15.8 sqm) luxurious stateroom with panoramic views from your French Balcony, complete with in-room temperature control, deluxe hotel-style bedding featuring Egyptian linen, down pillows, and duvet, and spacious bathrooms equipped with multi-jet showerheads.

The stateroom also offers a large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe, direct-dial telephone, flat-screen TV, an Entertainment on Demand system with complimentary TV, movies, and music library, free internet and Wi-Fi, daily replenished bottled water, and a desk with chair for added convenience and luxury.

Category Single (Panoramic Balcony)

Solo travellers can relax in a slightly smaller 155 sq. ft (14.4 sqm) luxurious stateroom with panoramic views from your French Balcony, complete with in-room temperature control, deluxe hotel-style bedding featuring Egyptian linen, down pillows, and duvet, and spacious bathrooms equipped with multi-jet showerheads.

The stateroom also offers a large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe, direct-dial telephone, flat-screen TV, an Entertainment on Demand system with complimentary TV, movies, and music library, free internet and Wi-Fi, daily replenished bottled water, and a desk with chair for added convenience and luxury.

Category T (Panoramic & Outside Balcony)

Relax in your luxurious 210 sq. ft. (19.5 sqm) stateroom boasting both a French and outside balcony, offering in-room temperature control, luxurious bedding with Egyptian linen, down pillows, and duvet, plus a spacious bathroom with multi-jet showerheads.

The stateroom is equipped with a large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe, telephone, flat-screen TV, an Entertainment on Demand system for complimentary TV, movies, and music, free internet and Wi-Fi, daily replenished bottled water, and a desk with chair, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay.

Category P (Panoramic & Outside Balcony)

Relax in your luxurious 235 sq. ft. (21.8 sqm) stateroom boasting both a French and outside balcony, offering in-room temperature control, luxurious bedding with Egyptian linen, down pillows, and duvet, plus a spacious bathroom with multi-jet showerheads.

The room is equipped with a large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe, telephone, flat-screen TV, an Entertainment on Demand system for complimentary TV, movies, and music, free internet and Wi-Fi, daily replenished bottled water, and a desk with chair, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay.

Category B+ (Panoramic Balcony)

Relax in your 170 sq. ft (15,8 sqm) luxurious luxurious stateroom with panoramic views from your French Balcony, complete with in-room temperature control, deluxe hotel-style bedding featuring Egyptian linen, down pillows, and duvet, and spacious bathrooms equipped with multi-jet showerheads.

The stateroom also offers a large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe, direct-dial telephone, flat-screen TV, an Entertainment on Demand system with complimentary TV, movies, and music library, free internet and Wi-Fi, daily replenished bottled water, and a desk with chair for added convenience and luxury.

Category T+ (Panoramic & Outside Balcony)

Relax in your luxurious 210 sq. ft. (19.5 sqm) stateroom boasting both a French and outside balcony, offering in-room temperature control, luxurious bedding with Egyptian linen, down pillows, and duvet, plus a spacious bathroom with multi-jet showerheads.

The stateroom is equipped with a large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe, telephone, flat-screen TV, an Entertainment on Demand system for complimentary TV, movies, and music, free internet and Wi-Fi, daily replenished bottled water, and a desk with chair, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay.

Category P+ (Panoramic & Outside Balcony)

Relax in your luxurious 235 sq. ft. (21.8 sqm) stateroom boasting both a French and outside balcony, offering in-room temperature control, luxurious bedding with Egyptian linen, down pillows, and duvet, plus a spacious bathroom with multi-jet showerheads.

The stateroom is equipped with a large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe, telephone, flat-screen TV, an Entertainment on Demand system for complimentary TV, movies, and music, free internet and Wi-Fi, daily replenished bottled water, and a desk with chair, ensuring a comfortable and convenient stay.

Owners Suite (Panoramic & Outside Balcony)

Discover the Owners Suite located on Violin Deck, a 350 sq. ft (32.5 sqm) haven featuring a French balcony and an outside balcony, butler service, room service and complimentary laundry .

This luxurious suite includes deluxe hotel-style bedding with Egyptian linen, down pillows, and duvet, spacious bathrooms with multi-jet showerheads, a large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe, telephone, flat-screen TV, an Entertainment on Demand system offering complimentary TV, movies, and music, free internet and Wi-Fi, daily replenished bottled water, and a desk with chair, providing an exquisite stay.

Brochure

Europe

APT Europe (2024)

No matter how many times you’ve been, there’s always something new to discover in APT’s Europe. Whether you want to cruise the rivers, glide through landscapes by rail or coach, or get deeply immersed in art, culture, food and history in any number of amazing cities, APT is for you.

Availability

Tuesday 26 Nov 2024
Sunday 22 Dec 2024
Ship Name MS AmaStella
From: $23,695
  N/A
Flights Included
Sunday 08 Dec 2024
Friday 03 Jan 2025
Ship Name MS AmaVenita
From: $24,695 $24,237
Save $458 Enquire
Tuesday 26 Nov 2024
Sunday 22 Dec 2024
Ship Name MS AmaStella
From: $35,295
  N/A
Flights Included
Sunday 08 Dec 2024
Friday 03 Jan 2025
Ship Name MS AmaVenita
From: $37,045 $36,340
Save $705 Enquire
Note
Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you enquire. Additional savings may apply. We guarantee the lowest price in Australia. T&C’s apply.

Cabin Upgrades Optional cabin upgrades. Upgrades priced per person

Base Cabin  (Prices Shown) $ 0
Category D $ 400
Category C $ 3,400
Category CB $ 3,400
Category B+ $ 3,600
Category T $ 3,800
Category T+ $ 4,000
Category P $ 4,200
Category P+ $ 4,500
Owners Suite+ $ 7,200

Base Cabin  (Prices Shown) $ 0
Category D $ 400
Category C $ 3,400
Category B+ $ 3,600
Category T $ 3,800
Category T+ $ 4,000
Category P $ 4,200
Category P+ $ 4,500
Royal Suite $ 6,800
Note
Upgrade prices shown are per person. Upgrade prices can vary depending on the departure date & the month of travel. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will confirm and include the upgrade price in your quote.
Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Prices and trip information are correct at the time at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by APT. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from APT. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

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