Christmas Markets on the Danube & Classic Prague

Christmas Markets on the Danube & Classic Prague

About This Cruise

This special festive twist of our classic itinerary down the Danube lets you explore the majestic architecture and markets of Budapest, before joining a local Slovakian family in Bratislava for home-hosted coffee and cake. Marvel at the classical surrounds of Vienna then wander the Christmas markets of Regensburg, highly regarded as 'one of the loveliest'. Extend your journey in the fairytale city of Prague, visiting historical sights such as the Astronomical Clock and Charles Bridge.

Who Is This Cruise For?

  • Couples

    Luxury service and an intimate, small-ship feel

  • Over 50s

    A gentle pace with daily excursions and no sea days

Type

River, Luxury

Ship

Emerald Dawn

Departure Date

9 December 2026

Cruise Line

Emerald Cruises

Duration

7 Nights

Select Your Cabin Type
Select your cabin type
Call Us at 01 6874149

Itinerary

Hungary

Budapest

Welcome to Budapest. You’ll be greeted by an Emerald Cruises representative at the airport and transferred to your contemporary Star-Ship. After boarding, you’ll have time to enjoy Budapest at your leisure.This evening, enjoy a performance of Hungarian folk music and dance on board.EmeraldPLUSTraditional Hungarian folklore show on boardPlease book your flight to arrive into Budapest prior to 05:00 PM.

Hungary

Budapest

Join a local guide for a tour of the Hungarian capital today, covering some of the highlights of Budapest and learn more about its stunning landscape and architecture. The history of the Hungarian capital shows a unique blend of cultures, cuisine and vibrant lifestyle. There is so much to take in while you pass through the bustling city, which is an attractive destination for visitors from all over the world. Following your guided tour, enjoy free time to explore the stalls of Budapest’s main Christmas market, where handcrafted ornaments are plentiful and colorful strings of lights line the streets.Included ExcursionGuided coach tour of Budapest

Slovakia

Bratislava

Across Europe, different cultures intertwine at Christmastime, sharing their traditions, treats, and unique customs. The Slovakian capital is a truly charming city whose roots can be traced across the continent. Enjoy a sightseeing tour of Bratislava, including its enchanting historic district and some of its many bustling Christmas markets.Included ExcursionWalking tour of BratislavaEmeraldPLUSHome-hosted coffee and cake with a Slovakian familyDiscoverMORECarpathian wine route (extra expense)

Austria

Vienna

Sweeping boulevards and world-famous art exhibitions welcome you to Vienna, a city perfectly encapsulating the extravagance of the Habsburg Monarchy and their love of ornate Baroque palaces. For art lovers, there is no other place like the Austrian capital, not just because the city is packed with museums and artwork, but because of its variety. Your tour will include a visit to the Kunsthistorisches Museum, the largest art museum in the country and one of the most important museums worldwide.Included ExcursionVienna art tour with a visit to the Kunsthistorisches MuseumDiscoverMOREViennese evening concert (extra expense)

Austria

Dürnstein

Enjoy a guided tour of Göttweig Abbey, a true treasure overlooking the Wachau Valley from a hill covered by vineyards and forests. Constructed in 1083, it’s one of Austria's most important Benedictine abbeys, attracting visitors from across the globe. Run by a community of about 45 monks, it’s visible from a great distance and provides epic panoramas from the grounds. As part of the tour you get to taste the delightful Göttweig wine, which is a tradition well kept by the monks throughout centuries.EmeraldPLUSGöttweig Abbey with wine tasting

Austria

Linz

Today you will be docked in Linz, the capital of Upper Austria and Austria’s third biggest city after Vienna and Graz. During your walking tour, you will have the chance to see the historical old town with a mix of baroque and Renaissance architecture. Hand-carved nativity scenes are on display in many of its churches, making for a serene and contemplative Christmas experience. A festive day for the senses, as you end with a Linzer torte tasting – the local delicacy that will add flavor to your Christmas time memories of this old Austrian town.Included ExcursionWalking tour of Linz with a Linzer Torte tastingDiscoverMOREFull day Excursion to Salzburg (extra expense)

Germany

Passau

Embark on a guided tour to Passau. Explore its beautiful historic center, featuring charming baroque buildings, stunning riverside views, and narrow cobblestone streets, all infused with the aroma of freshly baked gingerbread. This important historic trading center, known as the City of Three Rivers—where three of Europe’s main waterways converge—borders Austria and showcases a distinctive blend of cultures.You can enjoy the magical ambience in the St. Stephen Cathedral with its special organ concert or wander through the Christmas market of Passau right in front of the St. Stephan’s Cathedral and discover the unique Bavarian delicacies.Back on board your Star-Ship, enjoy a live local entertainment showcasing typical Bavarian tradition.EmeraldPLUSTraditional Bavarian band on boardIncluded ExcursionGuided Tour of Passau

Germany

Passau

After breakfast, it is time to transfer to Prague to your centrally located hotel for a three-night stay.

Czech Republic

Prague

After breakfast, it is time to transfer to Prague to your centrally located hotel for a three-night stay.

Czech Republic

Prague

Today, you will have the opportunity to explore Prague as it is effortlessly enveloped by the wonder of the seasonal period. Your local guide will take you through the old town square, a cobblestoned area that perfectly captures the city’s architectural heritage.Included ExcursionA guided tour of Prague with Christmas marketEmeraldPLUSCoffee & Cake at Lobkowicz Palace

Czech Republic

Prague

Your tour director will be available to help you plan your day of independent exploration today. We would recommend going to one of Prague’s memorable Christmas markets, where colourful stalls owned by local craftsmen are full of handcrafted ornaments and freshly baked Czech Christmas treats.DiscoverMORETastes of Czechia (extra expense)

Czech Republic

Prague

After breakfast, it’s time to bid farewell to your fellow guests as you are transferred from your hotel to the airport, taking memories of ancient monasteries and cobblestone streets with you.This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.

Overview

This special festive twist of our classic itinerary down the Danube lets you explore the majestic architecture and markets of Budapest, before joining a local Slovakian family in Bratislava for home-hosted coffee and cake. Marvel at the classical surrounds of Vienna then wander the Christmas markets of Regensburg, highly regarded as 'one of the loveliest'. Extend your journey in the fairytale city of Prague, visiting historical sights such as the Astronomical Clock and Charles Bridge.

Suite

Owner's One-Bedroom Suite

A limited number of Owner’s One-Bedroom Suites are available on each Star-Ship, making them our most exclusive suites. A separate living room and bedroom area offers a greater amount of space and a walk-in wardrobe provides ample storage room.

All Suites & Staterooms feature:

  • Plush queen-size or twin hotel-style beds draped in soft linens
  • En-suite bathroom with a revitalising shower, a selection of luxury ESPA toiletries
  • hair dryer
  • bathrobes and slippers
  • Bottled water restocked daily
  • Combined flat-screen HDTV and infotainment system
  • Individual climate control
  • Personal safe
  • Umbrella
  • Telephone
  • Walking sticks
  • Refillable water flask

Suite

Grand Balcony Suite

Grand Balcony Suites come with an outdoor private balcony area, complete with open-air system. A pillow menu ensures you have the best night’s sleep possible, and a continental breakfast can be delivered to your room on request.

All Suites & Staterooms feature:

  • Plush queen-size or twin hotel-style beds draped in soft linens
  • En-suite bathroom with a revitalising shower, a selection of luxury ESPA toiletries
  • hair dryer
  • bathrobes and slippers
  • Bottled water restocked daily
  • Combined flat-screen HDTV and infotainment system
  • Individual climate control
  • Personal safe
  • Umbrella
  • Telephone
  • Walking sticks
  • Refillable water flask

Balcony

Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite

These chic suites are perfect for viewing the scenery pass by. Our innovative all-weather balcony system allows the floor-to-ceiling window to drop down electronically and an indoor decked area allows you to enjoy the sights in all their glory.

All Suites & Staterooms feature:

  • Plush queen-size or twin hotel-style beds draped in soft linens
  • En-suite bathroom with a revitalising shower, a selection of luxury ESPA toiletries
  • hair dryer
  • bathrobes and slippers
  • Bottled water restocked daily
  • Combined flat-screen HDTV and infotainment system
  • Individual climate control
  • Personal safe
  • Umbrella
  • Telephone
  • Walking sticks
  • Refillable water flask

Outside

Emerald Stateroom

Staterooms boast a spacious layout when it comes to European small ship river cruising. A picture window provides plenty of natural light, and your en-suite bathroom will be fully stocked with luxurious ESPA toiletries.

All Suites & Staterooms feature:

  • Plush queen-size or twin hotel-style beds draped in soft linens
  • En-suite bathroom with a revitalising shower, a selection of luxury ESPA toiletries
  • hair dryer
  • bathrobes and slippers
  • Bottled water restocked daily
  • Combined flat-screen HDTV and infotainment system
  • Individual climate control
  • Personal safe
  • Umbrella
  • Telephone
  • Walking sticks
  • Refillable water flask

Outside

Emerald Single Stateroom

Select Star-Ships on the Danube, Moselle, Rhine and Rhône rivers come with tastefully-appointed cabins specially built for solo travellers, with excellent levels of comfort to guarantee the perfect accommodation for one.

All Suites & Staterooms feature:

  • Plush queen-size or twin hotel-style beds draped in soft linens
  • En-suite bathroom with a revitalising shower, a selection of luxury ESPA toiletries
  • hair dryer
  • bathrobes and slippers
  • Bottled water restocked daily
  • Combined flat-screen HDTV and infotainment system
  • Individual climate control
  • Personal safe
  • Umbrella
  • Telephone
  • Walking sticks
  • Refillable water flask

casual

Reflections Restaurant

Our premiere on board dining spot

With open seating and elegant design, our Reflections Restaurant sets the benchmark in on board dining across our fleet of boutique Star-Ships throughout Europe and Southeast Asia. Here, savour delightful chef-prepared meals for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with dishes inspired by local flavours and a few favourites you may recognise from home.

casual

The Terrace

Dine alfresco

A beautifully decked area in the forward of our European Star-Ships, The Terrace provides a lovely retreat from which to enjoy a light snack or refreshing drink. Depending on the ship, this partly indoor and outdoor space is a spectacular vantage point from which to soak up the scenery, whatever the weather. This peaceful setting is also a great spot to enjoy a drink as the wonders of the landscape pass by.

healthy

Healthy Dining

The freshest ingredients
Dine on delectable meals made with fresh, locally sourced produce.

Lunch with a view
Enjoy healthy meals while soaking in the stunning views and fresh air.

A range of dietary options
Sample amazing vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free meal options^. ^Please inform your crew of any dietary requirements.

bbq

Sky Barbecue

The Sky Barbecue can be found on the Sun Deck.

Cinema

Daytime Pool & Bar/Evening Cinema

Exclusive to Emerald Cruises Star-Ships cruising Central Europe and France, the innovative heated indoor pool with is a tranquil haven to swim and take in the passing river views by day. As dusk falls, the floor gently rises to cover the pool, and the space transforms into an intimate cinema or Riverside Lounge – a blissful setting to enjoy magical vistas, read, or socialise to gentle music and soft lighting. Morning stretch sessions will also invigorate you, before seamlessly transforming back into a luxurious pool for the day. Enjoy a touch of innovation on board your Emerald Cruises Star-Ship in Central Europe and France with the heated indoor pool. With expansive river views, it is a tranquil setting to relax by day and on select evenings, the space transforms into a cosy indoor cinema.

Bar, Lounge

Horizon Bar and Lounge

Peruse our extensive drinks menu from the comfort of the Horizon Bar, the principal lounge area on board our boutique Star-Ships. Fitted with comfortable seating, a well-stocked bar and dancefloor and entertainment space, this is the premier spot to relax, unwind or dance the night away at the end of another exceptional day on the river. During the day, you'll also find unlimited coffee and speciality teas here

Relax, socialise and dance the night away in the contemporary lounge and bar. On selected nights enjoy evening entertainment or simply relax and unwind with your favourite drink from the well-stocked bar. Throughout the day, you can enjoy complimentary tea and coffee, making this an inviting space to pause, connect and take in the on board comforts.

Sun Deck

Sun Deck

The Sun Deck is your panoramic outdoor space on-board Emerald Sun and Emerald Dawn, a place to relax, unwind and take in inspiring views of the river. Complete with deck chairs, walking track and games area, you’ll find the Sun Deck at the very top of your Emerald Star-Ship.

Sun Deck

Games Area and Golf Putting Green

Feel free to enjoy our games area and golf putting green. It’s the perfect way to enjoy the scenery while you challenge new-found friends.

Reception

Reception

If you want to purchase a drinks package, enquire about a DiscoverMORE excursion or simply catch-up with our friendly crew, you’ll always receive a warm welcome in our on-board reception area.

Pool

Emerald Serenity Pool

Designed for Portugal’s warm climate, Emerald Radiance features a luxurious spa-style Serenity Pool on the Sun Deck, ideal for a refreshing dip as sun-drenched landscapes glide by. Morning wellness sessions set a tranquil tone for the day, and on movie nights this alfresco retreat transforms into an open-air cinema, with films playing beneath a canopy of stars.

Pool, Wellness

Wellness Area

A space dedicated to mind, body, and soul. Stay active on board with a fitness session in the well-equipped gym, or indulge in a blissful range of relaxing and invigorating spa treatments (at an additional cost).

A relaxing massage

Unwind with a massage courtesy of our expertly trained masseuses.

A dedicated space

Settle into a professional massage therapy room designed around serenity.

Every thoughtful detail

From soft gowns to luxurious ESPA toiletries, you’ll enjoy unparalleled comfort.

Gym, Wellness

Fitness Area

Your well-equipped gym

Keep up your workout regime in our well-equipped, modern gym.

Salon

Hairdressers

In need of a quick trim during your travels? On-board the Emerald Sun, Emerald Luna and Emerald Dawn, you can treat yourself at any point during your cruise with our dedicated hairdressers – perfect if you’re looking to get spruced up for a special evening.

Jogging or Walking Track

Walking Track

Stretch your legs and take in the sights as you enjoy a stroll on our purpose-built walking track. Taking you around the outside of the Sun Deck, it’s a great addition for those who like to stay active on their travels.