LADIES CHRISTMASTIME ON THE DANUBE WITH 2 NIGHTS IN PRAGUE!
November 30-December 8, 2024
Hosted by Shelley
Roommate matching as available
This festive European river cruise vacation begins in Prague, the beautiful capital of the Czech Republic. See famous sights like Old Town’s Astronomical Clock and the Charles Bridge, but also get the unique chance to stroll through the Christmas markets. It’s a treat to see the rows of brightly decorated wooden huts that sell Christmas tree ornaments, wooden toys, and Czech handicrafts. Explore to your heart’s content with a warm cup of svarene vino (hot mulled wine). Board your river cruise vessel in Nuremberg, Germany, with its medieval fortifications, gothic churches, and palaces. The Old Town is illuminated with festive lights and decorations and the Christmas market, one of the most famous in the world, has dozens of stalls offering traditional wares, such as Lebkuchen (spiced gingerbread), Glühwein (hot mulled wine), and unique decorations and ornaments.
Learn about local Christmas traditions, as you cruise to historical Regensburg, the only German city not bombed during WWII. Experience Passau’s charming Christmas market set against the breathtaking backdrop of St. Stephen’s Cathedral—a masterpiece of baroque architecture. Arrive in Melk, Austria, and tour the magnificent 11th century Benedictine Abbey—one of Europe’s largest monasteries. As you cruise through the wintery landscape of the picturesque Wachau Valley, enjoy the view with a tasting of traditional Austrian cookies. This Christmas river cruise ends in Austria’s magical capital of Vienna, home to the sounds of Mozart, Strauss, and the Vienna Boys’ Choir. See the famous sights with a Local Guide and enjoy a tour through the Christmas markets to get a taste of all the best flavors Austria offers during this time of year.
Avalon has designed included activities with a choice of experiences! We invite you to select the tours, activities, and events that interest you most, so you can experience your cruise your way. There are 3 types of included shore excursion on every Europe cruise:
CLASSIC
Your local expert is ready to guide you through the history and heritage of local destinations. You’ll marvel at the legends, lore, and spectacular architecture of iconic and historic sites.
DISCOVERY
We’ve found inspiring and interactive activities to speak to your interests - from cooking classes, to painting workshops - to immerse yourself in each culture you explore.
PLUS! New on Avalon, beer and wine included at lunch as well as dinner.....and at Happy Hour!
Day 1
PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC
-
Welcome to Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic. This fascinating city straddles the Vltava River with domes, cupolas, spires, and pinnacles highlighting its skyline. Enjoy free time to explore the Prague and its surrounding countryside. Sample delicious plum dumplings and traditional Pilsner lager beside the Vltava River.
-
Group welcome dinner will be arranged, own account.
Day 2
PRAGUE
-
Gothic Cathedrals, Grand Castles, and Czech Christmas Spirits
-
Classic:
Take a Guided City Walk to visit Hradčany Castle Grounds; see St. Vitus Cathedral, and Old Town’s Astronomical Clock.
-
Spend the afternoon on your own to browse the exquisite Christmas Markets of Prague. Stroll through the brightly colored wooden stalls for ornaments and handmade toys and handicrafts. (B)
Day 3
PRAGUE–NUREMBERG, GERMANY (EMBARKATION)
-
The Perfect Christmas Wish Come True
Indulge in traditional holiday fare and hot libations to warm your heart and soul before your transfer to Nuremberg and board your Avalon Suite Ship® -
OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN NUREMBERG (B,D)
Day 4
NUREMBERG
-
Choose a Guided Tour of Nuremberg’s medieval architecture, gilded fountain, Gothic cathedral, and Kaiserburg Castle,
-
OR:
Join a Guided Tour of the historic Nuremberg Rally Grounds—used by the Third Reich. -
Spend free time on your own to browse the spruce stalls of the Christmas Markets of Nuremberg. Sample favorite Bavarian fare—from dozens of bratwurst varieties, gingerbread, mulled blueberry wine, and countless other culinary delights of the Christkindlmarkt.
Enjoy live entertainment as you sail. -
EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO REGENSBURG (B,L,D)
Day 5
REGENSBURG
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.
Take time to browse Regensburg’s sparkling Christmas markets. Enjoy hot-mulled wine, candied almonds, gingerbread, or bratwurst.
Discovery:
Enjoy a Christmas Traditions Lecture on board.
EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO PASSAU (B,L,D)
Day 6
PASSAU
-
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.”
-
You may like to join a Guided Optional Excursion to Salzburg, Austria. See the setting of The Sound of Music, and learn the story behind the beloved Christmas hymn, Silent Night.
Spend free time in Passau’s charming Christkindlmarkt near magnificent St. Stephen’s Cathedral.
Take a brief evening cruise to Linz. Enjoy live entertainment on board. -
OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO MELK (B,L,D)
Day 7
MELK, AUSTRIA - VIENNA
-
Classic:
Take a Guided Tour of Melk’s magnificent Benedictine Abbey to marvel at its frescoed ceilings.
-
Discovery:
Enjoy an Austrian Cookie Tasting while sailing through the splendid Wachau Valley to Vienna.
-
VIENNA Vienna’s Winter Wonderland
-
This evening, you may choose to attend an Optional Excursion to a Royal Waltz Concert for an unforgettable evening of music in an elegant hall.
-
OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN VIENNA (B,L,D)
Day 8
VIENNA
-
Royal Collections, and Culinary Confections
-
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.
-
Spend free time on your own to enjoy the Christkindlesmarkt, or relax by the fire’s glow in a Viennese café.
You may join a Guided Optional Tour of Schönbrunn Palace—summer home of the Habsburg dynasty for 300 years. -
OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN VIENNA (B,L,D)
Day 9
VIENNA (DISEMBARKATION)
-
Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B)
Pricing (land only, flights extra)
Based on double occupancy:
Category D 4633.00 per person
Category B 5704.00 per person
Category A 5747.00 per person
Includes port charges and taxes....and with a minimum of 10 people we get included pre-paid cruise gratuities!
Single occupancy....contact Shelley for pricing.
Non-refundable deposit of 250.00 per person and additional non-refundable booking fee 100.00+gst per person required to hold your spot. Travel insurance is not included and strongly recommended. Final payment will be due August 2024.
Flights will be booked in 2024.
Category A,B
