Budapest has celebrated Christmas for a thousand years, since the reign of St. Stephen, the king who founded Hungary and encouraged the spread of Christianity throughout his realm. As you ramble through the Christmas Market on Vörösmarty Square, admiring the handmade porcelain, stop to watch as kürtos kalács (a pastry) is baked on rods over an open fire and then coated with sugar before it’s handed to you.
In Bratislava, where a lively young art scene is revitalizing the compact city core, stalls abound with traditional Slovakian Christmas items such as medovníky (spiced ginger cookies) and šúpolie (figurines made from corn husks). Experience Uniworld’s exclusive “Taste of Christmas” program in the heart of Vienna during the day.
Glorious baroque architecture, delightful concerts and ravishing scenery will make this Christmas season unforgettable as you sail through the holidays on the Danube.
Please note that most Christmas Markets in Europe end their season on the 23rd of December and will not be available after that date.
The shimmering waters of the fabled Danube River flow for thousands of miles through the very heart of Europe, silent witness to centuries of artistic achievement and historical events. This perfectly composed journey provides an immersive cultural tasting menu of four equally beguiling countries—ideal for first-time river cruisers as well as seasoned travelers seeking to experience yet another dimension of these much-loved destinations.
Our locally-based destination experts will take you well beyond the “must-sees” of each region, offering fresh takes on classic sites, insider knowledge of delightful under-the-radar locales, and VIP access to places only a privileged few will ever experience—such as a private early-morning viewing of the acclaimed art collection of the Kunstkammer Vienna.
Experience the grandeur of a continent-spanning adventure on the "Trans-European Cruise from Strasbourg to Budapest." This 13-day tour package sails through 11 cities across France, Germany, Austria, and Hungary, traversing the Rhine, Main, and Danube rivers. Highlights include Wertheim am Main, Esztergom, Regensburg, and more.
Enjoy breathtaking landscapes and the gentle rhythm of Europe’s great rivers, which have long connected people, cultures, and traditions. Each stop reveals new layers of history, from medieval towns to vibrant capitals, ensuring an enriching and varied exploration.
The unique selling point: an unparalleled opportunity to experience the diverse heritage of four countries in one seamless cruise tour, making it perfect for those who crave a true trans-European getaway.
The "Beautiful Blue Danube from Passau to Budapest" cruise invites you to savor the heart of Central Europe over an 11-day journey. Setting out from Passau, this tour weaves through Budapest, Esztergom, and Vienna, offering a royal passage through cities rich in history and artistic treasures.
Highlights include tours of Artstetten Castle, the imperial Gödöllö Palace, the private world of Empress Sisi, and the Capuchin Crypt. This tour package is perfect for travelers who appreciate the fusion of cultural discovery and leisurely river cruising.
USP: An extended itinerary that delves deep into the region’s imperial past, providing a regal experience along the Danube’s storied banks.
The "Beautiful Blue Danube" cruise trip whisks you from Passau to Budapest over six days, unveiling the cultural and natural wonders of Germany, Austria, and Hungary. Sail past the baroque beauty of Melk, the imperial grandeur of Vienna, and the vibrant streets of Budapest.
Discover the UNESCO-listed Wachau Valley, dotted with monasteries, orchards, and vineyards, and stand in awe at the imposing Dürnstein Castle. This tour package is perfect for travelers seeking a compact yet comprehensive Danube adventure.
What makes this tour stand out: the inclusion of the Wachau Valley—a gem of the Danube—ensuring a journey rich in both scenic splendor and historical intrigue.
The Danube’s heart beats with Christmas magic on the "Taking in 3 countries: The Danube and its traditions (port-to-port cruise)," a 5-day voyage boarding and disembarking in Vienna. This cruise trip sails through Vienna, Bratislava, and Budapest—three capitals bursting with enchanting Christmas markets. Savor the aromas of mulled wine and gingerbread as you stroll through Vienna’s festive squares. Enjoy the rich artisan traditions and culinary delights in Bratislava and Budapest, where local culture shines. For those who cherish festive markets and cultural immersion, this tour package offers a unique cross-border holiday experience through Central Europe.
Cruise the mighty Danube, visiting classic capitals like Budapest and Vienna. Spend Christmas Eve in Passau, then ring in the New Year in elegant style in Budapest. Festive celebrations are plentiful during this cruise—what better way to create perfect holiday memories?
Commemorate a splendid musical heritage as you lift your voice and sing “Silent Night” in Oberndorf, where the beloved Christmas carol was composed. Meet the Count of Castle Clam. Spend Christmas Day in Salzburg and enjoy a holiday lunch within the walls of St. Peter’s Abbey. Discover the seasonal delicacies of Slovakia in Bratislava’s picturesque downtown and enjoy the merriment of traditional hospitality in an Austrian wine village. Ring out the old year and ring in the new with art, wine, and song as you cruise through four nations during this enchanting season.
Please note that most Christmas Markets in Europe end their season on the 23rd of December and will not be available after that date.
Set out from Vienna on the "Beautiful Blue Danube" cruise trip, a journey that unveils the timeless magic of Austria and Hungary. Over eight days, you’ll sail through Budapest, Kalocsa, and Durnstein, discovering the region’s vibrant history and picturesque towns. Wander the fairytale-like alleys of Bratislava, soak in the healing waters of Budapest’s Gellert Baths, and step into imperial history at the Sisi Museum, where myth and reality intermingle through personal artifacts and legendary portraits.
This cruise tour is an ideal choice for travelers who relish cultural exploration and charming riverside scenery. Each stop reveals a new facet of Central Europe, from the heartland of Hungary in the Puszta to the iconic monuments and lively streets of Vienna. Onboard amenities and comfortable cabins provide the perfect respite after immersive sightseeing.
A key highlight of this tour package is the diverse mix of experiences: from wellness traditions to imperial legacies, you’ll enjoy a comprehensive introduction to the Danube’s treasures—all within a single, expertly curated itinerary.
Celebrate the magic of Christmas on a 6-day Danube cruise tour departing and ending in Vienna. Sail to Bratislava and Budapest, where festive markets, colorful streets, and the warmth of the holiday season await.
Attend Christmas Mass in Budapest, stroll Vienna’s illuminated squares, and explore the vast Puszta plains—a highlight for nature lovers. This trip is ideal for travelers seeking a joyful blend of cultural traditions and seasonal cheer.
The USP: a holiday cruise that immerses you in the Christmas spirit while unveiling the rich heritage and landscapes of Central Europe.
Sail from Budapest to Passau on "The Beautiful Blue Danube (port-to-port cruise)," a 6-day trip through Germany and Hungary. Pass through Budapest, Bratislava, and Vienna, exploring cultural landmarks like the Schoenbrunn Palace and the scenic Wachau Valley—a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The highlight of this tour is its access to the Danube’s most picturesque stretches, including Dürnstein Castle and charming riverside villages, making it a must for travelers seeking scenic beauty and rich history.