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Christmas on the Danube River Cruise

Christmas on the Danube River Cruise

About This Cruise

Celebrate Christmas and experience all the pleasures of this joyous time of the year amidst the grand imperial cities of the magnificent Danube.

Immerse yourself in the magic of Christmas on the majestic Danube, where grand cities and twinkling markets create a truly enchanting escape. Wander through Vienna’s elegant streets, discover the festive charm of Budapest and Bratislava, and explore the Baroque beauty of Salzburg or Linz. Along the way, visit the splendid Melk Abbey, the imperial grandeur of Schönbrunn Palace and the historic town of Dürnstein.  

On board, savour the season with a sumptuous Christmas Day gala dinner, an evocative classical quartet recital and a spirited Hungarian folklore show – a perfect blend of culture and Christmas cheer.

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

  • Solo travellers

    Riviera Travel offers dedicated solo cabins or solo fares

Type

River, Luxury

Ship

MS Riviera Radiance

Departure Date

22 December 2026

Cruise Line

Riviera Travel

Duration

7 Nights

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

Itinerary

Hungary

Budapest

Arrival in Budapest - Your holiday begins in Budapest where your five-star cruise ship awaits on the banks of the Danube. Boarding is in the late afternoon so, if you arrive earlier, you'll have time to explore the city at your leisure from a convenient central location before joining the ship. On arrival the dedicated crew are there to welcome you on board, ensuring you settle in and familiarise yourself with this first-class floating hotel.Your eyes will be wide with wonder as you take in the fabulous décor, with garlands adorning the staircases, lights as far as the eye can see and of course the majestic Christmas tree taking centre stage. There’s always a sense of expectancy and excitement on the eve of a cruise, especially at Christmas time and, after an excellent dinner in the stylish restaurant, conversation is sure to revolve around the seasonal delights ahead.

Hungary

Budapest

Budapest - Although divided by the Danube, Budapest's two halves couldn't feel more different. Buda is known for its fairytale architecture, leafy hills and elegant promenades, while Pest buzzes with grand boulevards, lively cafés and a distinctly cosmopolitan atmosphere. Together, they form one of Europe's most captivating capitals, where centuries of history and culture are on display at every turn.This morning, you can choose how you'd like to explore the city.Sit back and take in Budapest's highlights on a panoramic coach tour, passing landmarks such as the Opera House, Gellért Baths, Chain Bridge and Parliament Building. You'll also stop at Heroes' Square and the Castle District, giving you time to soak up the atmosphere and capture some memorable photographs. Alternatively, join our more active tour of Budapest's historic Castle District. Travelling by coach to the castle area, you'll ascend to the terraces before setting off on a guided walk around Castle Hill and Fisherman's Bastion. From here, admire sweeping views across the Danube and the city beyond before enjoying some free time to explore at your own pace. Please note, this excursion involves more walking and uneven terrain and is recommended for those with a good level of mobility. Returning to the ship, we'll leave Budapest behind and begin cruising through the beautiful Danube Bend. Relax on the Sun Deck as the river winds past forested hillsides, historic towns and hilltop fortresses. Along the way, you'll pass picturesque settlements such as Visegrád and Szentendre, whose church spires, colourful houses and castle ruins create some of the Danube's most memorable scenery. We’ll pause for a planned stop along the Danube – a lovely opportunity to stretch your legs or simply enjoy the changing scenery. Tonight, enjoy a lively Hungarian folklore show, showcasing traditional music, costumes and dance in a celebration of the country's rich cultural heritage.

Slovakia

Bratislava

Bratislava on Christmas Eve - This morning belongs to the river. Settle in with breakfast, find your favourite spot on board and watch the scenery drift by. Vine-covered hillsides, riverside villages and church spires appear and disappear around each bend, making the journey every bit as enjoyable as the destination.After lunch, we arrive in Slovakia's compact and characterful capital. Bratislava rarely shouts for attention. Instead, it wins people over with elegant squares, centuries of history and a laid-back atmosphere that's refreshingly different from Europe's larger capitals.Our tour leads us up to Bratislava Castle, which has watched over the Danube for centuries. From its hilltop position, you'll enjoy sweeping views across the city and the river beyond before continuing to Michael's Gate, the last remaining entrance to the medieval city and one of Bratislava's most recognisable landmarks. With a local guide leading the way, we'll wander through the Old Town's cobbled streets and hidden corners, where Baroque palaces sit alongside colourful townhouses and lively cafés.Once the guided tour concludes, the rest of the afternoon is yours to enjoy as you please. Stroll along the riverside promenade, where locals gather at waterside cafés and bars, or cross the Danube to the UFO Observation Deck for a completely different perspective on the city. Often named one of Europe's top hidden gems of winter travel, Bratislava’s main square boasts a towering Christmas tree and some 70 wooden stalls selling handmade crafts and local foods.We'll return to the ship this evening, with plenty of stories – and perhaps a favourite Slovak wine – to bring back with us.

Austria

Dürnstein

Dürnstein & Melk on Christmas Day - This morning, we arrive in Dürnstein, one of the Wachau Valley's most picturesque riverside towns. Nestled between the Danube and terraced vineyards, it's best known for its striking blue abbey tower and the castle ruins where Richard the Lionheart was once held captive. After breakfast, we'll travel by coach to nearby Melk to visit one of Austria's most impressive landmarks. Standing high above the river, Melk Abbey has been watching over the Danube for more than 900 years. Originally founded as a Benedictine monastery, its honey-coloured Baroque exterior gives way to lavish state rooms, a remarkable library and the magnificent Imperial Gallery, where centuries of history are brought vividly to life.After returning to the ship for lunch, you’ll have some time to spend at leisure in Dürnstein. Wander the town's narrow lanes, browse its independent shops, pause at a pavement café or simply enjoy the atmosphere of this charming Wachau town at your own pace.Later this afternoon, we cast off and begin one of the most scenic stretches of cruising on the Danube. As we glide through the UNESCO-listed Wachau Valley, vineyards climb the hillsides above ancient villages and church spires punctuate the landscape. Keep an eye out for Melk Abbey, whose commanding position above the river offers a very different perspective from the water. Later, gather for a delightful onboard demonstration of traditional stollen-making. With the scent of festive spices filling the air and the ship adorned in seasonal decorations, it’s a cosy and engaging way to embrace the spirit of Christmas on the Danube. You’re in for a truly magical evening tonight. As the ship glides along the wintry waters of the Danube, you’ll gather with your fellow travellers in the beautifully decorated onboard restaurant for a special Christmas Gala Dinner. Expect a festive atmosphere filled with seasonal cheer, exquisite cuisine prepared by our talented chefs, and the joy of celebrating this most wonderful time of year in unforgettable surroundings.

Austria

Salzburg

Salzburg or Linz on Boxing Day - When we arrive in Linz, you have a choice of two included excursions: stay in Linz for a guided walk in the morning, followed by lunch on board your ship and a free afternoon cruising through beautiful scenery; or a full-day excursion to Salzburg, starting with a guided tour, then lunch at your leisure and free time to wander the city. Join our guided walking tour of Linz, exploring the charming, decorated streets of its Baroque old town. At its heart you’ll see one of the finest squares in Austria, lined by grand pastel-coloured facades with an impressive central Trinity Column of white marble, crowned by a gilded sunburst. There’s also the fortress-like castle, built high above the city by Emperor Friedrich III, now embellished in seasonal splendour. With locals spending time with loved ones today, the markets, shops, cafés and attractions may not be open. Take in the festive ambience with the glow of lights and the magnificent Christmas tree in the Hauptplatz.We return to the ship for another satisfying lunch on board. Later we cruise through beautiful scenery, from the peaceful Machland plains to the Strudengau region, where the river suddenly narrows into a snug gorge with dark, forested hills rising from the water's edge — look out for old castle ruins tucked into the trees. Historically, this stretch was perilous for sailors due to hidden rocks and whirlpools. Fortunately, you can now relax and have your camera at the ready. As the ship rounds the final bend, Greinburg Castle emerges high on a rocky cliff, looking down on the colourful town of Grein below. It is here in Grein where we pause, and those who chose the Salzburg excursion will rejoin us on board. On our full-day excursion to Salzburg, we discover some of the city’s main sights with an expert local guide. Then you’re free to explore as you wish.Dominating Salzburg's skyline is one of Europe’s largest stone fortresses, the Hohensalzburg, while beneath its walls, church domes and spires rise from the delightful Altstadt. Then there’s the wonderful Hellbrunn Palace and the splendid formal gardens of the Mirabell Palace. Everywhere there are sights associated with the city’s most famous resident, Mozart, who wrote his first opera when he was 11! Celebrate the day by the magnificent Christmas tree in Cathedral Square and perhaps reflect on the hauntingly beautiful lyrics of Silent Night. This carol was written by Joseph Mohr who was also born in Salzburg.After our day in Salzburg, we drive to Grein, a historic riverside town on a dramatic bend of the Danube. Here in picture-perfect Grein, we rejoin our ship. After tonight's delicious dinner on board, perhaps retire to the lounge for a nightcap, as we cruise towards magnificent Vienna.

Austria

Vienna

Vienna - During the early hours, our ship has stealthily crept into port, and you awake to find yourself in twinkling Vienna.For 200 years until the First World War, Vienna was the cultural centre of Europe and many of the showpiece buildings, galleries, aristocratic palaces and magnificent churches you see today were built to reflect its imperial status. The city’s most iconic monument is the breathtaking Saint Stephen’s Cathedral, whose striking multi-coloured roof and huge Gothic South Tower dominate the skyline.After breakfast, enjoy a guided panoramic tour by coach along the Ringstrasse, the famous boulevard, built where the city walls once stood and lined with many of the most important sights. You can choose to continue your tour on foot through the old town, 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. Or explore independently and maybe retreat to the refined yet cosy elegance of a traditional Viennese café for an indulgent Sachertorte.After lunch on board we visit the magnificent Schönbrunn Palace. Once the summer residence of the Habsburgs, this former royal residence now houses a range of world-class museums and galleries. The palace also hosts a superb Christmas market, specialising in traditional handicrafts and nostalgic toys.This evening we’ve arranged truly the ‘icing on the cake’: no visit to Vienna is complete without a live musical experience, so after tonight's Chef's dinner, featuring some of their signature dishes, we’ll enjoy a Christmas classical recital in the comfort of our luxury ship, presenting well-known festive melodies - a wonderful finale to the day.

Hungary

Budapest

Budapest - Enjoy a leisurely morning as we cruise majestically through Hungary’s peaceful 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 centre to work off some of those delicious meals or head up to the sun deck to enjoy the bracing river breeze with a steaming mug of Glühwein in hand as the Captain skilfully 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're free to explore at your own pace and soak up Budapest's festive atmosphere. Browse the Christmas markets around St Stephen's Basilica and Vörösmarty Square, where wooden chalets brim with handcrafted gifts, seasonal treats and local delicacies. As the aroma of gingerbread, roasted chestnuts and warming goulash fills the air as you wander beneath the twinkling lights that transform the city each Christmas – and don’t forget the mulled wine to stave off the winter chill! This evening, after your final splendid dinner, you’ll have time to bid farewell to your travelling companions and reflect on all the inspirational places, sights and sounds you have experienced on this very magical festive cruise.

Hungary

Budapest

Return home - Your cruise concludes in Budapest, where you'll enjoy a final breakfast on board before disembarking. Depending on your onward travel arrangements, you'll have time to explore at your leisure from a convenient central location before continuing your journey home.

Overview

Celebrate Christmas and experience all the pleasures of this joyous time of the year amidst the grand imperial cities of the magnificent Danube.

Immerse yourself in the magic of Christmas on the majestic Danube, where grand cities and twinkling markets create a truly enchanting escape. Wander through Vienna’s elegant streets, discover the festive charm of Budapest and Bratislava, and explore the Baroque beauty of Salzburg or Linz. Along the way, visit the splendid Melk Abbey, the imperial grandeur of Schönbrunn Palace and the historic town of Dürnstein.  

On board, savour the season with a sumptuous Christmas Day gala dinner, an evocative classical quartet recital and a spirited Hungarian folklore show – a perfect blend of culture and Christmas cheer.

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Suite

Grand Balcony Suite

Designed for the ultimate in space and comfort, the Grand Suites are our biggest-ever cabins at an impressive 32 square metres. Whether you're relaxing in your separate living space - featuring a sofa, chair and table - or enjoying an afternoon siesta on your king-sized bed, you'll feel spoilt by all this space. The Grand Suites are finished to an exceptionally high standard with superior quality fittings in the most refined taste featuring individually controlled air conditioning, a desk, double wardrobe, hairdryer, safe, TV and telephone, and tea/coffee-making facilities are available in every room.

In addition to the indoor space, you'll also enjoy a private exterior balcony, complete with outdoor seating - the perfect place to enjoy breakfast 'al fresco', a pre-dinner 'sundown' cocktail or simply sit and watch the riverbanks glide by as we sail.

Features

  • Individual climate control
  • Floor-to-ceiling windows with outside balcony and seating
  • Twin beds which can be configured as king
  • Separate indoor seating area with sofa, table and chair
  • Nespresso machine and tea making facilities
  • Spacious ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
  • Luxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap
  • Towels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryer
  • UK plug sockets & 2 USB charging points
  • Desk & chair
  • Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV
  • Safe & mini fridge
  • Turn down service

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Suite

Superior Suite - Diamond Deck

Our spacious Superior Suites are 24 square metres with a floor-to-ceiling French balcony that slide open, bringing you that much closer to the beautiful waterway beyond. Between onshore adventures, you can watch the world go by through the window from the comfort of your separate living space - featuring a sofa, chair and table.

Throughout the suite are the thoughtfully appointed, high-quality furnishings and fittings that Riviera Travel are known for. The cabin includes air conditioning, hairdryer, safe, TV, telephone, a desk, double wardrobe, a lounge chair and small table and tea/coffee-making facilities are available in every room. The hotel-style beds can be configured as a double or twin, and the room features an ensuite bathroom with a rain shower.

Features

  • Individual climate control
  • Floor to ceiling windows with French style balcony
  • Twin beds which can be configured as double
  • Separate indoor seating area with sofa, table and chair
  • Nespresso machine and tea making facilities
  • Ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
  • Luxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap
  • Towels and hairdryer
  • Desk & chair
  • Telephone and flat-screen TV
  • Safe & mini fridge
  • Turn down service

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Suite

Superior Suite - Ruby Deck

Our spacious Superior Suites are 24 square metres with a floor-to-ceiling French balcony that side open, bringing you that much closer to the beautiful waterway beyond. Between onshore adventures, you can watch the world go by through the window from the comfort of your separate living space - featuring a sofa, chair and table.

Throughout the suite are the thoughtfully appointed, high-quality furnishings and fittings that Riviera Travel are known for. The cabin includes air conditioning, hairdryer, safe, TV, telephone, a desk, double wardrobe, a lounge chair and small table and tea/coffee-making facilities are available in every room. The hotel-style beds can be configured as a double or twin, and the room features an ensuite bathroom with a rain shower. 

Features

  • Individual climate control
  • Floor to ceiling windows with French style balcony
  • Twin beds which can be configured as double
  • Separate indoor seating area with sofa, table and chair
  • Nespresso machine and tea making facilities
  • Ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
  • Luxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap
  • Towels and hairdryer
  • Desk & chair
  • Telephone and flat-screen TV
  • Safe & mini fridge
  • Turn down service

Outside

Double Cabin - Diamond Deck

Imaginatively designed and well-appointed, our 16 square metre Double Cabins offer all the luxury you would expect to find in a smart ‘boutique style’ hotel. A full-sized double bed ensures a good night’s rest in crisp cotton linen. Double Cabins on the Diamond Deck have a French Balcony – panoramic floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors that bring riverside life just that little closer!

Careful consideration has been given to every detail with individually controlled air-conditioning so you can set the temperature that you desire, a hairdryer, safe, minibar, telephone and the convenience of tea (our meticulous planning even extends to familiar teabags!) and coffee-making facilities ensure a familiar home from home experience.

Features

  • Individual climate control
  • Floor to ceiling windows with French style balcony
  • Twin beds which can be configured as double
  • Nespresso machine and tea making facilities
  • Ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
  • Luxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap
  • Towels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryer
  • UK plug sockets & 2 USB charging points
  • Table and chairs
  • Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV
  • Safe & mini fridge
  • Turn down service

Outside

Double Cabin - Ruby Deck

Imaginatively designed and well-appointed, our 16 square metre Double Cabins offer all the luxury you would expect to find in a smart ‘boutique style’ hotel. A full-sized double bed ensures a good night’s rest in crisp cotton linen. Double Cabins on the Ruby Deck have a French Balcony – panoramic floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors that bring riverside life just that little closer!

Careful consideration has been given to every detail with individually controlled air-conditioning so you can set the temperature that you desire, a hairdryer, safe, minibar, telephone and the convenience of tea (our meticulous planning even extends to familiar teabags!) and coffee-making facilities ensure a familiar home from home experience.

Features

  • Individual climate control
  • Floor to ceiling windows with French style balcony
  • Twin beds which can be configured as double
  • Nespresso machine and tea making facilities
  • Ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
  • Luxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap
  • Towels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryer
  • UK plug sockets & 2 USB charging points
  • Table and chairs
  • Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV
  • Safe & mini fridge
  • Turn down service 

Outside

Double Cabin - Emerald Deck

Imaginatively designed and well-appointed, our 16 square metre Double Cabins offer all the luxury you would expect to find in a smart ‘boutique style’ hotel. A full-sized double bed ensures a good night’s rest in crisp cotton linen.

Careful consideration has been given to every detail with individually controlled air-conditioning so you can set the temperature that you desire, a hairdryer, safe, minibar, telephone and the convenience of tea (our meticulous planning even extends to familiar teabags!) and coffee-making facilities ensure a familiar home from home experience. Double Cabins on the Diamond Deck have a smaller fixed window.  

Features

  • Individual climate control
  • Fixed window
  • Twin beds which can be configured as double
  • Nespresso machine and tea making facilities
  • Ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
  • Luxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap
  • Towels, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryer
  • UK plug sockets & 2 USB charging points
  • Table and chairs
  • Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV
  • Safe & mini fridge
  • Turn down service

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casual

Riverview Kitchen

The Riverview Kitchen, located at the stern, is available at no extra charge for lunch and dinner. It offers a more intimate dining experience with an open kitchen, large panoramic windows and al fresco seating so you can admire the fantastic views. Here in the evenings,You can enjoy a more informal experience that takes its inspiration from a traditional Grill restaurant.

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tapas

Mosaic

Mosaic Restaurant offers a unique regional culinary journey and wine pairing menu. Each course features a number of elements inspired by the rivers of Europe. Showcasing the finest local ingredients from each region, you can savour the essence of the continent – one delectable bite at a time.

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buffet

Main Restaurant

The Ruby Deck can be summed up by the swish of a napkin and the clink of a glass. Our ship's main restaurant is located on the Ruby Deck, offering an exceptional service pairing seasonal menus with a glass of wine from our carefully curated wine list, including a selection of regional favourites. Our friendly and attentive staff are only too happy to help from recommendations to alternative dietary options, nothing is too much trouble. So, you can just sit back and delight in the wonderful elegance of your surroundings; beautifully laid tables of just 4 or 6 guests, crisp linen, deep wool carpets and warm wood panelling abound to offer a delectable dining experience of the highest order.

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Bar, Lounge

Panorama Lounge and Bar

The Diamond Deck is home to the social hub of the ship, the Panorama Lounge and Bar. From here, you can watch the waters of one of Europe's most beautiful waterways rush by and spot the small settlements that reside on the riverbank. And, after the day's adventure, you and your sun-kissed fellow travellers will congregate here to swap stories and discuss the highlights of the day, returning after dinner to enjoy a digestif and the evening's entertainment.

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Reception

Cruise Director and Reception

You'll usually find your Riviera Travel Cruise Director in the lobby area on the Ruby Deck as well as the reception desk where the helpful staff are on hand to assist you 24 hours a day. Close by, you'll also find our boutique shop. 

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Sun Deck

Sun Deck

Here, you can catch the scenery change from the comfort of a sun lounger, sip cocktails on the deck and, when the sun starts to heat up, cool down with a dip in the plunge pool. Whether we're in port or sailing to our next destination, the Sun Deck is the place to relax.

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Spa, Gym, Wellness

Wellness Area

On the Emerald Deck is the fitness centre, perfect for working off all those delicious meals or, for something less strenuous, you could treat yourself to a relaxing massage.