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Magical Christmas Markets

Resort:Magical Christmas Markets
Operator: AMA Waterways
Destination: Austria, Europe, Germany
Price From: Contact for latest offers

Overview

Throughout this dreamlike journey, an overflowing of good tidings and magical Christmas markets come alive. A winter wonderland awaits at Pragues Christmas markets brightly decorated with wooden huts stocked with handicrafts and delicious scents flavoring the air. Be spellbound by the medieval atmosphere of Nurembergs main Christmas market, and sample its renowned gingerbread. Stroll through Regensburgs romantic Christmas market at the Thurn and Taxis Castle, savoring fresh dumplings with vanilla sauce. Get caught up in the magic of Salzburgs Christmas markets at both Hellbrunn Palace and at Christkindlmarkt, located at the foot of the Hohensalzburg Fortress and around the venerable cathedral, which is a feast for the senses, from the warm aroma of mulled wine and Austrian pastry delights, to the sights and sounds of holiday performances, to the colors and textures of traditional handcrafts. And while in Vienna, visit enchanting Christmas markets from the regal Schnbrunn Palace to Viennas charming Maria Theresa markets.

Itinerary

Day 1 – Nuremburg

Board the ship in Nuremberg for your Magical Christmas Markets cruise. (D)

Day 2 – Nuremburg

Join a city tour of WWII highlights and then walk through Nurembergs cobblestone streets to the Imperial Castle and 900-year-old city ramparts. Visit Nurembergs Christkindlesmarkt, one of the worlds largest and most famous Christmas Markets. Later in the day, cruise through the Main-Danube Canal. (B,L,D)

Day 3 – Regensburg

Regensburg is one of Germanys best preserved medieval cities, as well as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Join a guided walking tour showcasing the citys architectural highlights, including the Old Town Hall and the Porta Praetoria, before visiting the Old Town Christmas Market. As an alternate option, sample some of Bavarias specialtiesbeer, sausage and pretzels. Or bike to the base of Walhalla where you will see the neoclassical white marble temple inspired by the Parthenon in Athens. Later in the day, youll be treated to one of Bavarias most beautiful and romantic Christmas Markets at Thurn and Taxis, where you can watch craftsmen make their unique arts and crafts. (B,L,D)

Day 4 – Passau

Picturesque Passau, a fairytale city founded more than 2,000 years ago, is noted for its Gothic and Italian Baroque architecture. During the season of Advent, the city dresses in her Bavarian holiday splendor, which you will discover on your walking tour through the city and at its Christmas Market at St. Stephens Squarealso home to its stunning cathedral. Go in search of unique crafts, including Bavarian-style houses and glass ornaments. If you prefer a more active adventure, join a guided bike ride along the Danube.

Day 5 – Linz

Linz is known for being the city of Christmas creches and its ever-popular Linzer torte. While here, you have a choice of three excursions. The first is a full-day visit to magnificent Salzburg dressed in her holiday best. Enjoy a walking tour of its UNESCO-designated Old Town, its grand cathedral, inspired by St. Peters Cathedral at the Vatican, and its Christmas Market at Hellbrunn Palace. Alternatively, you can choose a morning walking tour through Linzs old city center and by the Mozart House, where he composed the Linz Symphony in only three days, as well as visit Linzs Christmas Markets. Or you can go on a guided bike tour through Linz and along the citys famed Cultural Mile and the Danube. During the afternoon, you can join a half-day excursion to Salzburg or visit the charming mountain town, esky Krumlov, located just over the Czech-Austrian border.

Day 6 – Melk

The awe-inspiring Benedictine Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is on full display for your enjoyment on your tour. Later in the day, set sail through the breathtaking Wachau Valley. Or for those seeking a more active adventure, bike through the Wachau Valley to Durnstein. Once in Durnstein, join a walking tour and wine tasting, or an apricots and sweets tasting. Later in the day, set sail to Krems, where you can enjoy a wine tasting or walking tour.

Day 7 – Vienna

The City of Waltzes offers a treasure trove of gems just waiting to be discovered. Join a tour showcasing its regal splendors, such as the majestic Opera House and the former Imperial Palace of the Habsburgs before concluding in Viennas historic city center. Afterwards, youll visit the Maria Theresa Christmas markets. If you prefer a more active adventure, then join a guided bike ride through Vienna. During the afternoon, visit the Schnbrunn Palace Christmas market with its giant Christmas tree.

Day 8 – Vienna

Your cruise comes to an end as you prepare for your homeward flight.