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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

    River cruising is relaxed, scenic and intimate

  • 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, Classic

Ship

MS Riviera Reflection

Departure Date

22 December 2027

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.

Suite

Grand Balcony Suite - Diamond Deck

Designed for the ultimate in space and comfort, the Grand Suites are our biggest-ever cabins at an impressive 32 square metres. Relax in a separate living space, which features a sofa, chair and table, or enjoy a siesta on your king-sized bed.

Our Grand Suites are finished to an exceptional standard with superior quality fittings. Each features a private exterior balcony with outdoor seating — superb for dining al fresco, a sundown cocktail, or watching riverside life drift by.

Every suite is equipped with individually controlled air-conditioning, a desk, double wardrobe, hairdryer, safe, TV and telephone, plus tea and coffee-making facilities.

Please note: as Riviera Reflection has yet to launch, images shown are of sister ship, Riviera Radiance or Riviera Resplendence.

Features

  • Individual climate control
  • Floor-to-ceiling windows with outside balcony and seating
  • Twin or king beds
  • Separate indoor seating area with sofa, table and chair
  • 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

Measuring 24 square metres, our spacious Superior Suites feature a floor-to-ceiling French balcony. Relax in a separate living space, which features a sofa, chair and table, and watch the world go by.

Our Superior Suites are finished to a superb standard with superior quality fittings. The hotel-style beds can be configured as a double or twin, and the room features an ensuite bathroom with a rain shower.

Every suite is equipped with individually controlled air-conditioning, a desk, double wardrobe, hairdryer, safe, TV and telephone, plus tea and coffee-making facilities.

Please note: as Riviera Reflection has yet to launch, images shown are of sister ship, Riviera Radiance or Riviera Resplendence.

Features

  • Individual climate control
  • Floor to ceiling windows with French style balcony
  • Twin or double beds
  • 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, 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 - Ruby Deck

Measuring 24 square metres, our spacious Superior Suites are equipped with a floor-to-ceiling French balcony. Relax in a separate living space, which features a sofa, chair and table, and watch the world go by.

Our Superior Suites are finished to a superb standard with superior quality fittings. The hotel-style beds can be configured as a double or twin, and the room features an ensuite bathroom with a rain shower.

Every suite is equipped with individually controlled air-conditioning, a desk, double wardrobe, hairdryer, safe, TV and telephone, plus tea and coffee-making facilities.

Please note: as Riviera Reflection has yet to launch, images shown are of sister ship, Riviera Radiance or Riviera Resplendence.

Features

  • Individual climate control
  • Floor to ceiling windows with French style balcony
  • 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, bathrobes, slippers and hairdryer
  • UK plug sockets & 2 USB charging points
  • Desk & chair
  • Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV
  • Safe & mini fridge

Outside

Double Cabin - Diamond Deck

At 16 square metres, our well-appointed Double Cabins are equipped with a floor-to-ceiling French balcony, bringing riverside life just that little closer. A full-sized double bed or twin beds ensure a good night’s rest in crisp cotton linen.

Careful consideration has been given to ensure a familiar home-from-home experience. Every cabin is equipped with individually controlled air-conditioning, hairdryer, safe, TV and telephone, plus tea and coffee-making facilities.

Please note: as Riviera Reflection has yet to launch, images shown are of sister ship, Riviera Radiance. 

Features

  • Individual climate control
  • Floor to ceiling windows with French style balcony
  • Twin or double beds
  • Nespresso machine and tea making facilities
  • Ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
  • Luxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap
  • Table and chairs
  • Telephone, radio and flat-screen TV
  • Safe & mini fridge
  • Turn down service

Outside

Double Cabin - Ruby Deck

At 16 square metres, our well-appointed Double Cabins are equipped with a floor-to-ceiling French balcony, bringing riverside life just that little closer. A full-sized double bed or twin beds ensure a good night’s rest in crisp cotton linen.

Careful consideration has been given to ensure a familiar home-from-home experience. Every cabin is equipped with individually controlled air-conditioning, hairdryer, safe, TV and telephone, plus tea and coffee-making facilities.

Please note: as Riviera Reflection has yet to launch, images shown are of sister ship, Riviera Radiance or Riviera Resplendence. 

Features

  • Individual climate control
  • Floor to ceiling windows with French style balcony
  • Twin or double beds
  • Nespresso machine and tea making facilities
  • Ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
  • Luxury toiletries
  • 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

At 16 square metres, our well-appointed Double Cabins are equipped with a floor-to-ceiling French balcony, so you can admire uninterrupted riverside views from the comfort of your cabin. Beds can be arranged as a double or twin, depending on your needs.

Careful consideration has been given to ensure a familiar home-from-home experience. Every cabin is equipped with individually controlled air-conditioning, hairdryer, safe, TV and telephone, plus tea and coffee-making facilities.

Double Cabins on the Emerald Deck have a small fixed window.

Please note: as Riviera Reflection has yet to launch, images shown are of sister ship, Riviera Radiance or Riviera Resplendence.

Features

  • Individual climate control
  • Twin or double beds
  • Nespresso machine and tea making facilities
  • Ensuite bathroom with walk-in shower
  • Luxury toiletries: shampoo, conditioner, shower gel, body lotion, soap
  • 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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wine

Main Restaurant

The Ruby Deck is where you’ll find the ship’s main restaurant, an elegant setting where seasonal menus are thoughtfully paired with wines from our carefully curated list, including a fine selection of regional favourites. Our friendly crew are always on hand to offer recommendations or accommodate different dietary requirements. Simply relax and savour the experience, surrounded by tables set for just 4 or 6 guests and rich wood panelling, creating a sophisticated dining atmosphere.

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casual

Riverview Kitchen

Located at the stern is the Riverview Kitchen, available at no extra charge for lunch and dinner. With its open kitchen, panoramic windows and al fresco seating, it offers a more intimate dining experience. In the evenings, it takes inspiration from a traditional grill restaurant, perfect for an informal and delicious meal.  

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Bar, Lounge

Panorama Lounge and Bar

At the heart of the ship, the Diamond Deck is home to the welcoming Panorama Lounge and Bar. From here, you can take in ever-changing views, watching charming villages and riverside life as they drift past. As the day draws to a close, guests naturally gather here to share stories from the day’s discovery. Return after dinner to enjoy a digestif and the evening’s entertainment.

Please note: as Riviera Reflection has yet to launch, images shown are of sister ship, Riviera Radiance or Riviera Resplendence. 

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Reception

Cruise Director and Reception

Located on the Ruby Deck is the lobby area, where your Cruise Director is usually on hand, while the reception desk is staffed 24 hours a day should you need assistance. Nearby, our boutique shop is lovely for a browse.

Please note: as Riviera Reflection has yet to launch, images shown are of sister ship, Riviera Radiance or Riviera Resplendence. 

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Sun Deck

Sun Deck

Up on the Sun Deck, life glides by to a sun-drenched rhythm. Settle into a comfortable lounger and admire the scenery, sip a cocktail, or cool off with a refreshing dip in the plunge pool when the day warms up. It’s the perfect place to relax.

Please note: as Riviera Reflection has yet to launch, images shown are of sister ship, Riviera Radiance or Riviera Resplendence. 

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Spa, Wellness

Wellness Area

On the Emerald Deck you’ll find the fitness centre, ideal for working off those indulgent meals. For something relaxing, why not treat yourself to a soothing massage in the spa?

Please note: as Riviera Reflection has yet to launch, images shown are of sister ship, Riviera Radiance or Riviera Resplendence.