Join us for a cruise in the heart of the major capitals along the Danube and discover the most enchanting Christmas markets in Europe. Stroll through beautiful squares and enchanting Christmas markets in Vienna, enjoying the scents of mulled wine and gingerbread perfuming the aisles between the wooden cabins. You can also visit the Christmas markets of Bratislava and Budapest where the local artisanship and culinary delights will bring the magic of Christmas to your heart.
This cruise takes you to some of the most famous and delightful holiday markets in Central Europe. At each market, you’ll find wooden stalls displaying traditional crafts that range from quirky little characters made of fruit and dressed in Bavarian costume to beautifully carved and painted Nativity figures. You’ll also find exquisite ornaments and fine contemporary crafts, along with fairytale villages decked in holiday finery.
Sparkling lights illuminate ancient cathedral squares and the sound of children’s laughter mingles with carols. Enjoy Uniworld’s exclusive “Taste of Christmas” program in Vienna, where you’ll see astonishing confectionary decorations in Café Demel’s windows. Celebrate the season in a new way as you meander through old lands, and remember, as the Christkind says, “While this market’s splendor is fleeting, the joy it brings is eternal.”
Please note that most Christmas Markets in Europe end their season on the 23rd of December and will not be available after that date.
Cruise
Tour Type
Cruise Tour
Accommodation
Ship Cabin
Age Range
2-99 yrs
Operated in
English
Destinations
Vienna, Nuremberg, Wachau Valley
Vienna, Nuremberg, Wachau Valley, Linz, Passau, Regensburg
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.
CruiseChristmas markets
Tour Type
Cruise Tour
Accommodation
Ship Cabin
Age Range
2-99 yrs
Operated in
English
Destinations
Budapest, Passau, Linz, Wachau V
Budapest, Passau, Linz, Wachau Valley, Vienna, Danube, Munich
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.
Generations Family Program (select sailings): Share the enchantment of this region with the special young people in your life. These cruises not only feature unique, fun-filled adventures for families to enjoy together, they’re also packed with culturally and historically significant experiences designed to spark creativity and lifelong learning.
CruiseDanube river cruise
Tour Type
Cruise Tour
Accommodation
Ship Cabin
Age Range
2-99 yrs
Operated in
English
Destinations
Budapest, Passau, Linz, Durnstei
Budapest, Passau, Linz, Durnstein, Vienna, Bratislava
Experience dynamic Budapest and imperial Vienna. Marvel at ravishing scenery as your luxurious ship glides through the Wachau Valley, celebrated as one of the world’s most beautiful landscapes, into Germany and past charming Bavarian villages. Exclusive treasures are plentiful on this delightful journey.
This enchanting voyage provides a variety of ways to enjoy captivating destinations as well as plenty of time to relax onboard as you sail from Budapest to Regensburg.
Jewish Heritage Program (select sailings): Our Jewish Heritage Program is the only one of its kind on the rivers and allows you to dive into Central Europe's enduring Jewish legacy with visits to museums, memorials, synagogues and more. Please note: Tours that fall on Saturdays will not operate due to Shabbat, and some sites may be closed during other significant events, such as Passover.
Cruise
Tour Type
Cruise Tour
Accommodation
Ship Cabin
Age Range
2-99 yrs
Operated in
English
Destinations
Budapest, Nuremberg, Vienna, Dur
Budapest, Nuremberg, Vienna, Durnstein, Linz, Passau, Regensburg
If you’re ready to sail down one of the most extraordinary rivers in Europe, then this tour of the Danube will take you in for an adventure! Your journey will begin in Munich, one of the most beautiful cities in Germany, known for its breathtaking parks, fascinating historic sites, and captivating cultural splendors. Make your way to Passau, where you will board your cruise, sail eastwards to Austrian capital of Vienna, experience its impressive imperial palaces, rich musical history and relaxed coffee house culture. Continue eastwards to the Hungarian capital of Budapest, often called Queen of Danube is known for its beautiful 18th-century homes, bridges and lampposts. From there you will make your way to Bratislava, a Slovakian city situated by the Danube, surrounded by scenic vineyards and mountains. Your next stop will be in Wachau, a gorgeous valley with UNESCO sites and extraordinary outdoor scenery, before you explore Melk, dig deep to learn about its architectural heritage, and visit Passau, the City of Three Rivers, known for its architecture and art. Finally, you will make your way back to Munich, where your cruise on the Danube will come to an end!
CruiseSightseeing Tours
Tour Type
Cruise Tour
Accommodation
Resort, Ship Cabin
Age Range
8-99 yrs
Operated in
english
Destinations
Munich, Bavaria, Passau, Vienna
Munich, Bavaria, Passau, Vienna, Budapest, Bratislava, Melk
Embark on a cruise to the Danube Capitals. You will experience unique places such as the covered grand market of Budapest with its incredible display of different goods, amongst which are famous garlands of paprika, and the spectacular Zsolnay roof tiles.Vienna, like an open air museum is famous for the Konzerthaus where the footsteps of the great composers still echo. Without forgetting Bratislava situated at the foot of the little Carpathian mountains, standing out from this wooded and rocky landscape. You will be transported in a twirl of emotions and unbelievable flavours.
