6 days from only $1,069pp
2024 Departure Dates:
Enjoy a guided tour of the fascinating Hungarian capital, imperial city of two halves straddling the mighty Danube, plus spectacular cruising along the famously dramatic Danube Bend in all its wintry splendor. Discover delightful Bratislava, Slovakia’s fast emerging capital, on our guided tour then wander the atmospheric markets of its lovely baroque old town, beautifully restored to its former glory.
After a guided tour of this grand imperial city, seeing the main sights at this spectacular time of the year, explore some of the capital’s traditional markets with their huge range of inspirational gifts and tempting Christmas fayre. Relax on board and enjoy the stunning river views on our return to this alluring and historic city to explore further and soak up the lovely festive ambience of its seasonal markets.
EMBARK IN BUDAPEST
Make your way to Budapest, where your five-star cruise ship moored in this beautiful city straddling the banks of the glorious Danube. As you step on board you will be greeted by your professional, five-star crew who are on hand to help you settle in as you familiarize yourself with the layout of this splendid ship.
We are moored overnight so you may fancy a wander ashore to start exploring this charismatic city, so full of atmosphere at this special time of year. It won’t be long before our first excellent dinner is served in the ship’s restaurant, over which you can get acquainted with some of your fellow travelers. Enjoy a aperitif in the welcoming lounge as you ponder all that the next few days has in store!
Budapest is always an atmospheric and fascinating city, but at this time of the year, the muted colors of its magnificent archaic spires and grand domes are especially captivating on the wintry skyline. The historic and palatial buildings, the superb Roman ruins and exquisite Art Nouveau architecture provide a truly impressive backdrop for the city’s acclaimed Christmas markets. This morning we enjoy a guided tour seeing the main sights such as the iconic Parliament Building and the ancient Castle District with its winding streets and panoramic views.
There’s free time to explore under your own steam, so perhaps take in one of the city’s fine museums or simply wander the markets. Soak up the traditional atmosphere as classical music fills the air along with the delicious smells of spicy gingerbread and peppery goulash – and don’t forget the mulled wine to stave off the winter chill! Back on board for lunch, excitement mounts as we slip our mooring and our adventure begins; just sit back and relax as the fairytale landscape glides by through the ship’s panoramic windows. This afternoon we witness a cruising highlight as we navigate the Danube Bend, where the river spectacularly winds its way through a narrow twisting valley, flanked by high mountains and snow-covered hillsides.
Wrap up and take to the deck to enjoy this wonderful kaleidoscope of Christmas card scenery drifting by in the frosty air, then return to the warmth of the ship’s inviting lounge and catch up on some reading or write those final Christmas cards. Later head to the convivial atmosphere of the ship’s well-stocked bar for your favorite aperitif, before another excellent dinner is served.
During this morning’s breakfast, we arrive in Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia. Its communist past now firmly confined to the history books, the city has rediscovered its imperial heritage in its beautifully restored baroque old town whilst the grand white fortress, the former seat of the rulers, enjoys commanding views over the river.
This morning we will discover more about the city’s interesting history, seeing the main sights and visiting some of the churches to view their traditional Christmas cribs, before you enjoy some free time. Wander the maze of streets, admiring the Christmas decorations until you reach the main square and the market with its cozy atmosphere; the sweet fragrance of cinnamon wafts on the air and hundreds of fairy lights twinkle amongst the branches of the Christmas trees. The pretty red and white stalls groan with inspirational artisan gifts, from decorations, wooden figurines or pottery. Sample some local delicacies too such as potato pancakes or poppy seed strudel but make sure you don’t spoil your appetite as it won’t be long until lunch is served back on board.
Afterward, you may wish to return to shore – perhaps to climb the tower of the Old Town Hall for a bird’s eye view of the city and the bustling market below. Alternatively, you may choose to join our optional excursion to Slovensky Grob, a village situated in the foothills of the Carpathian Mountains, famed for its geese rearing. We will visit a typical Slovak chalet to enjoy a wine tasting of some of the season’s new wines, accompanied by some typical local delicacies.
Later we return to the ship where another excellent dinner will be served
During the early hours, our ship has stealthily crept into port and you awake to find yourself in Vienna. There are few places that can so delightfully evoke the spirit of Christmas than here – where the elegant imperial facades, their decorations glittering in the glow from a thousand Christmas lights, the sound of classical carols floating on the crisp air and the irresistible smell of candyfloss and roasted chestnuts are truly reminiscent of Christmas from a bygone age. There has been a Christmas market here since the Middle Ages and today there are more than 20 markets held over the festive period selling a huge range of seasonal gifts and mouth-watering treats. Vienna’s City Hall provides a splendid backdrop for one of the most popular, its windows a giant advent calendar, reflecting the myriad of lights glistening in the trees below. The magnificent Schönbrunn Palace also hosts a superb market, specializing in traditional handicrafts and nostalgic toys. After breakfast you enjoy a guided tour seeing the main sights such as St Stephen’s Cathedral and the impressive Hofburg complex, former royal court, now home to a collection of museums, the Vienna Boys’ Choir and the world-famous Spanish Riding School.
After lunch on board there’s plenty of time to explore some more of the markets, while the brass band plays its Christmas repertoire and the sweet aroma of nutmeg fills the air. When things turn chilly, retreat to the refined yet cozy elegance of a traditional Viennese café for a steaming hot chocolate and watch the last daylight fade away.
After tonight’s excellent dinner on board, retire to the lounge for a nightcap and enjoy a classical recital - a fitting musical finale to our day as the ship glides away from this captivating city.
We have sailed overnight and on waking, draw back the curtains to see the early morning mist rising over this gentle pastoral landscape, draped in a blanket of glistening frost. After breakfast, seek out a good vantage spot in the lounge, sink into a comfy chair and watch this lovely slideshow of winter wonderland scenery effortlessly gliding by – what could be more relaxing! For the more energetic, perhaps a visit to the ship’s fitness center to work off some of those delicious meals or head up to the sun deck to enjoy the bracing river breeze as the Captain skillfully navigates our return course to the Hungarian capital.
Our final lunch is served during which Budapest’s majestic skyline comes into view. This afternoon you are at leisure so perhaps wander to the Vorosmarty Square in the very heart of Pest, where the rustic cottage-style wooden stalls groan under the weight of their treasure troves of unique Christmas gifts. The scent of traditional honey cookies and mulled wine pervades the air as you browse the stalls, enjoying the friendly festive ambiance or perhaps indulging in a slice of traditional chimney cake.
Return to the ship in time for tonight’s superb Captain’s Dinner, expertly served by your attentive crew before enjoying one last evening amongst newly-made friends in the convivial bar, recounting stories from a very magical cruise.
DISEMBARK IN BUDAPEST
This morning at the appropriate time, you will disembark the ship ready for your onward journey.
Prices are per person based on two people in a twin occupancy cabin. The price includes:
The following items are not included in the cruise pricing quoted:
5 night drinks package available from $139 per person
Tea, coffee and water will be served complimentary throughout your cruise, but should you wish to indulge in a glass of wine or a beer with your lunch or dinner, we would recommend adding our drinks package to your booking.
Simply relax and when it’s time to dine in the restaurant, take your pick from a range of: draught beer; non-alcoholic beer; sodas; juices; red, white and rosé house wines; and wine recommendations from the menu by the glass.
If you choose not to purchase a drinks package, there is a vast selection of drinks on board each ship available for individual purchase. View the example bar list.
Please note that drinks packages must be purchased by all guests occupying the same cabin or suite, and do not include drinks from the bar. The bar menu is an example, with brands and prices varying across ships and itineraries.
Suites on the Emerald Deck are slightly smaller, measuring approximately 16 square meters (172 square feet) and have smaller fixed windows. Limited availability for single occupancy with no supplement.
Suites on the Ruby (middle) Deck have ‘French Balconies’ – panoramic floor to ceiling sliding glass doors bringing riverside life just that little closer!
Bringing your cruise to another level, why not upgrade to a Superior Suite? Substantially larger at 23 square meters (247 sq. feet) and with the additional space devoted to the living area, you will immediately notice the benefit as you relax in your stylish surroundings.
Enjoy a room to yourself with this Single Occupancy Suites on the Emerald Deck.
Suites on the Diamond Deck have ‘French Balconies’ – panoramic floor to ceiling sliding glass doors bringing riverside life just that little closer!
Do I require a passport?
It is essential for US citizens to possess a full passport, valid for at least six months beyond the date of your return air ticket. For details on how to obtain a passport log onto https://usps.com/international/passports.htm or inquire at your nearest Post Office.
Do you recommend travel protection?
We recommend that you purchase a travel protection plan to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected. We’ve partnered with USI Travel Insurance Services to offer a Tour Protection Plan designed just for our travelers. This optional plan provides insurance coverage for not only additional expenses incurred from trip cancellation or interruption, but also emergency medical coverage and emergency evacuation coverage. The Plan also includes 24/7 Travel Assistance – a non-insurance benefit that gives you access to assistance in your language for anything you may need before or during your trip, from help with refilling a lost prescription, to locating a doctor away from home or replacing a lost passport or other critical documents. Ask us for more details about the Tour Protection Plan, including the full policy.
How can I pay for my booking?
All payments must be made in US Dollars. Payments can be made by either debit/credit card through your Travel Advisor.
How do I cancel my booking?
If you wish to cancel your booking, please inform us as soon as possible by email to Amber@HayesTravelGroup.com. Please note you will be liable to pay the cancellation charges detailed in our Booking Conditions.
How do I make a booking?
Complete the Booking Request form by clicking "Learn More". We will send you cabin stateroom options and pricing for the itinerary you select.
How do I make a change to my booking?
If you wish to amend your booking, simply send an email to Amber@HayesTravelGroup.com. I must have all requested changes in writing (email). Feel free to call to discuss your situation, but ultimately I will need any changes requested by email to document your decision.
What documentation will I receive after making my booking?
You will receive an email following confirmation of your payment. Along with your confirmation, you will receive a passenger information form, which contains all the information that you have provided at the time of the booking, as well as space to provide additional information such as passport details and emergency contact. It is important that you carefully check the information on this form and return the form with any missing information completed. You will receive your final travel documents 7-10 days prior to departure by email.
What is my baggage allowance?
Please check with your airline carrier for baggage requirements and restrictions while flying.
What should I do if I don’t receive my travel documents?
Your travel documents should arrive 7-10 days prior to departure by email. If you haven’t received your documents three (3) days before you are due to travel, please call 888-838-8820.
What should I do if I lose my travel documents?
Contact us as soon as possible 888-838-8820 and we will provide replacements or advise on what to do.
When will I pay my balance?
Final payment is due 101 days before travel.
Will I require a Visa?
Please check carefully if you need a visa to travel to Europe as we cannot accept responsibility for the cancellation of a cruise due to the non-granting of a visa. If you are unsure whether you require a visa, please contact your relevant embassy or consulate for more information. https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel.html