The Danube River Christmas Markets are a magical winter wonderland come to life. As the second-longest river in Europe, the Danube stretches through multiple countries and is home to some of the most enchanting Christmas markets in the world. You'll be treated to stunning displays of holiday lights, intricate handicrafts, and mouthwatering seasonal treats. The festive atmosphere is perfectly complemented by the beautiful historic architecture found in cities such as Vienna and Budapest, making for a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you're looking to shop for unique souvenirs or simply enjoy a warm glass of glühwein while soaking up the holiday spirit, the Danube River Christmas Markets are the perfect destination for a winter getaway.

Itinerary

December 2, 2025 (Saturday) 

• Arrive into Budapest. Arrival transfer included.  Embark the MS William Wordsworth and settle into your cabin.  Meet the rest of the group this evening for a welcome drink.
• Meals included:  Dinner

December 3, 2023 (Sunday)

• After breakfast, enjoy a guided tour of Budapest where you'll see the main sights such as the iconic Parliament Building and the ancient Castle District with its winding streets and panoramic views. Enjoy some free time to explore the city on your own.  Choose to visit one of the many museums or holiday markets.  Back on board, depart Budapest and cruise through the Danube Bend, where the river spectacularly winds its way through a narrow twisting valley, flanked by high mountains and snow-covered hillsides.
• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

December 4, 2023 (Monday)

• This morning, you'll arrive in Bratislava, a beautifully restored baroque old town and the capital of Slovakia.  During a guided tour you'll learn more about the cities history and see the main sites, ending in the main square with its traditional holiday market.  Lunch is back on board the ship, after which you can continue to explore Bratislava or choose to go on an optional excursion to Slovensky Grob, a village situated in the foothills of the Carpathian Mountains.
• Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

December 5, 2023 (Tuesday)

• This morning, you awake in Vienna, where there has been a Christmas market held since the Middle Ages.  After breakfast, 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.  Enjoy the rest of the day to explore on your own and visit some of the 20+ markets held over the festive period selling a huge range of seasonal gifts and mouth-watering treats. 
• Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner​

December 6, 2023 (Wednesday)

• Today morning enjoy a scenic cruise back to Budapest.  Watch the skyline come into view as you enjoy your lunch.  You'll have one last afternoon to explore the city and its markets, perhaps heading to the Vorosmarty Square in the very heart of Pest.  Afterwards, return to the ship for the Captain's dinner.
• Meals Included: Breakfast, lunch, dinner

December 7, 2023 (Thursday) - Departure Day

• Today you disembark the MS William Wordsworth and say farewell to Budapest.  
• Meals Included: Breakfast

Overview

Arrival Information

• Budapest, Hungary (BUD)
• December 2, 2023

Departure Information

• Budapest, Hungary (BUD)
• December 7, 2023
• Depart at any time

Places visited

• Budapest, Hungary
• Bratislava, Slovakia
• Vienna, Austria​

Price

• ​$2,069​ per person, double occupancy, Diamond deck suite upper
• $2,229 per person, double occupancy, Ruby deck superior suite, french balcony
• $2,689 per person, double occupancy, Diamond deck deluxy suite, balcony
• Single occupancy is 200% of the double occupancy price.​​

Deposit

• $400 per person
• Deposit payment is 100% non-refundable!

Ready to Book?

• Call Rene at 866-869-1760
• Email us at [email protected]

Travel Insurance

• It is mandatory for all travelers to have Emergency Medical insurance that covers for both emergency evacuation and repatriation to the sum of $200,000.  An all inclusive plan that covers cancellation/interruption insurance is strongly recommended.  You can learn more about your options from Roam Right and purchase a policy here. 

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Inclusions

Accommodations

• 5 nights onboard the MS William Wordsworth  
• Onboard wi-fi

Activities

• Guided tours of Budapest, Vienna and Bratislava

Meals

• 5 breakfasts
• 4 Lunches
• 5 Dinners including the Captain's dinner
• Farewell drinks 

Transportation

• All transportation to and from included activities
• Arrival transportation from the Budapest airport to the MS William Wordsworth

Guides and Host:​

• Rene from Grand Explorations will be your host for the duration of the trip
• Local expert guides where appropriate

Exclusions

• International Flights to Budapest
• Any meals and drinks not listed under Inclusions
• Any optional activities not listed under Inclusions
• Items of a personal nature
• Travel Insurance (Can be purchased here from Roam Right. Travelers are required a sum of $200,000 for both emergency evacuation and repatriation.

Important Notes

• ​While it is our intention to adhere to the route described below, there is a certain amount of flexibility built into the itinerary and on occasion it may be necessary, or desirable to make alterations. The itinerary is brief, as we never know exactly where our journey will take us. Due to this style of travel and the regions we visit, travel can be unpredictable.