Overview
Cruise through the picturesque Wachau Valley read more to Melk, and visit the Benedictine Abbey, one of Europe’s most architecturally breathtaking monasteries—sure to be truly magnificent during the holiday season. In Regensburg, one of Germany’s best-preserved medieval cities, see the sights with a Local Guide and savor local sausages and beer at one of Germany’s oldest restaurants, Historiche Wurstkuche (Old Sausage Kitchen). On to Nuremberg where, after your guided tour, you are free to visit the Christmas market, one of the most famous in the world. A full-day excursion to Munich shows you the Bavarian capital.
The traditional Christmas market is located on the Marienplatz, with aromas of toasted almonds, roasted chestnuts, and gingerbread filling the air! Continue your Christmastime river cruise to Bamberg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where the many nativity scenes exhibited throughout the town are sure to delight. In Würzburg, on the River Main, visit the ornate Bishop’s Residence—home to the largest ceiling fresco ever painted, then stroll through the Christmas markets while you sip Glühwein (hot mulled wine). Your last stop is at one of the charming small towns dotted along the river—sure to be even more appealing illuminated with Christmas lights and decorations.
Itinerary
Welcome to Austria. Your Suite Ship® is Ready for Boarding. Flights into Vienna must arrive by 3:30pm. Guests must be on board ship by 5pm.
OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN VIENNA (D)
Royal Collections and Amusing Attractions.
- Classic: Explore the Habsburg empire this morning on a Guided City Tour of Vienna's gilded landmarks. See the Imperial Palace complex—the winter residence of the Imperial Family, the iconic Vienna Opera House, and stunning St. Stephen's Cathedral.
OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO MELK (B/L/D)
Frescoes above the Wachau Valley.
- Classic: Take a Guided Tour of Melk's magnificent Benedictine Abbey to marvel at its frescoed ceilings.
- Discovery: Enjoy an Austrian Cookie Tasting onboard while sailing to Grein.
- Classic: Take a Guided Walk of Grein, including its historic theater, the oldest in Austria still holding regular performances.
OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO PASSAU (B/L/D)
Saint Stephens, Salzburg, and the Story of Silent Night.
- Classic: Join a Guided City Walk to learn more about this beautiful “City of Three Rivers.”
EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO REGENSBURG (B/L/D)
Christmas Magic in Bavaria.
- Classic: Join a Guided City Walk and see Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall) and Porta Pretoria—entrance to the Castra Regina fortress built in 179 AD.
- Discovery: Join an onboard gingerbread Cooking Demonstration
EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO NUREMBERG (B/L/D)
Legends and History Lessons
- Discovery: Enjoy a Christmas Traditions Lecture on board while sailing this morning.
- Classic: Choose a Guided Tour of Nuremberg's medieval architecture, gilded fountain, Gothic cathedral, and Kaiserburg Castle, OR:
- Classic: Join a Guided Tour of the historic Nuremberg Rally Grounds—used by the Third Reich.
- Discovery: Join an onboard workshop to learn how to create beautifully decorated candles.
OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN NUREMBERG (B/L/D)
Merry in Munich
- Classic: Enjoy a Guided City Tour which will show you the highlights of fascinating Munich. See Nymphenburg Palace—a former residence of Bavarian monarchs, along with the Old and New Town Halls of Marienplatz.
OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN NUREMBERG (B/D)
Legends and History Lessons
- Classic: Choose a Guided Tour of Nuremberg's medieval architecture, gilded fountain, Gothic cathedral, and Kaiserburg Castle, OR:
- Classic: Join a Guided Tour of the historic Nuremberg Rally Grounds—used by the Third Reich.
- Discovery: Get into the holiday spirit as cheerful carolers come aboard your ship to fill the air with beloved Christmas songs.
EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO BAMBERG (B/L/D)
Christmas Customs and Cradle Scenes.
- Classic: Join a Guided Sightseeing Tour of Bamberg—medieval home of Germany's Roman Empire dynasties. Stroll through dozens of Bamberg's nativity scenes—from miniature to life-size.
- Discovery: Enjoy an onboard Christmas Traditions Lecture while sailing.
AFTERNOON/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO WÜRZBURG (B/L/D)
Old Saint Nick and Nutcrackers Sweet
- Classic: Take a Guided Sightseeing Tour of the “Pearl of the Romantic Road” with its Old Main Bridge, towering fortress, and baroque Bishop's Residence.
EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO MILTENBERG (B/L/D)
Hidden Gifts and Holiday Delights.
- Classic: Take a Guided Walking Tour of Miltenberg, a showcase of medieval half - timber homes and home to Germany's oldest inn.
- Discovery: Join a German Cookie Baking Demonstration on board your ship while sailing.
AFTERNOON/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO FRANKFURT (B/L/D)
Your cruise ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
Life Onboard Avalon Imagery II
Float along Europe's most famous waterways in relaxed luxury aboard one of Avalon's award-winning Suite Ships. Read more
With the only Open-Air Balconies in river cruising, experience Europe with a view like no other in a Panorama Suite. Read more
Avalon features all the right inclusions which compliment your luxurious river cruise experience. Read more
Personalise your cruise to make it your own with Avalon Choice. Select whichever included excursions interest you the most. Read more
Avalon's Active & Discovery river cruises offer activities for travelers with varying interests & for all energy and fitness levels. Read more
Savour regional cuisine and familiar favourites using the freshest local ingredients throughout your river cruise. Read more
Dates & Pricing
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Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Avalon. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and 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.
