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Classic Prague & Christmas Markets on the Danube

Classic Prague & Christmas Markets on the Danube

About This Cruise

Prague is a fascinating city full of historical sights, like the Astrological Clock, and Charles Bridge. This special festive twist on our classic itinerary down the Danube makes time for explorations of quirky Budapest, a traditional lunch with Slovakian locals, and marvelling at Vienna’s iconic architecture. All before perusing the Christmas markets of Regensburg, highly regarded as ‘one of the loveliest’.

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 Luna

Departure Date

8 December 2028

Cruise Line

Emerald Cruises

Duration

7 Nights

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

Itinerary

Czech Republic

Prague

Welcome to the Czech Republic and its enchanting capital, Prague, home to some of the world’s most well-preserved collections of architecture from across the ages. Settle into your centrally located hotel, included in your exciting three-night stay. Later, meet your fellow guests and tour director for a convivial welcome drink.

Czech Republic

Prague

Soak in the sights of Prague on your included morning tour. Later, you may continue exploring the city at leisure.Included ExcursionGuided city tour of PragueThe heart of Prague is an enchanting treasure trove, showcasing some of Europe’s finest and most well-preserved architectural marvels from various eras. Begin your included tour by exploring three magnificent castle courtyards before stepping into the awe-inspiring St. Vitus Cathedral. From here, descend the Castle Steps, where breathtaking views of Prague unfold before your eyes. Next, stroll across the iconic Charles Bridge, leading you to the charming Old Town and the legendary Astronomical Clock in the vibrant Old Town Square, leaving you captivated by Prague’s timeless beauty. EmeraldPLUSCoffee & Cake at Lobkowicz PalaceEnjoy a moment of sheer indulgence at Lobkowicz Palace, one of the most significant cultural sites in the Czech Republic. Here, freshly brewed coffee and delicate pastries are served against a backdrop of aristocratic charm and history.

Czech Republic

Prague

Your tour director will be available to help you plan your day of independent explorations in Prague, a city regarded as one of Europe’s most magical.We recommend visiting one of Prague’s memorable Christmas markets, where colourful stalls owned by local craftsmen are brimming with handcrafted ornaments and freshly baked Czech Christmas treats.DiscoverMORETastes of Czechia (extra expense)During this fascinating tour, you can learn all about the wonderful variety of Czech wines. A short walk from your hotel will take you through some of the city's interesting hidden corners, before arriving at a local restaurant. Meet your sommelier and enjoy a welcome drink of Czech sparkling wine, followed by a selection of red, white and Rosé wines; each one is accompanied by traditional charcuterie and cheeses carefully selected to complement every glass.Activity level: Easy, Duration: 2.5 hours

Czech Republic

Prague

This morning, after breakfast, you’ll depart your hotel and transfer by coach from Prague to Passau, within the charming Bavarian region of Southern Germany. Here, you'll board your luxury Emerald Star-Ship, warmly greeted by the friendly crew, ready for your memorable river cruise ahead.

Germany

Passau

This morning, after breakfast, you’ll depart your hotel and transfer by coach from Prague to Passau, within the charming Bavarian region of Southern Germany. Here, you'll board your luxury Emerald Star-Ship, warmly greeted by the friendly crew, ready for your memorable river cruise ahead.

Germany

Passau

This important historic trading centre, known as the ‘City of Three Rivers’ – where three of Europe’s main waterways converge – borders Austria and showcases a distinctive blend of cultures. Its beautiful historic centre features charming Baroque buildings, stunning riverside views and narrow cobblestone streets, all infused with the aroma of freshly baked gingerbread. In front of the green-domed façade of St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Passau’s annual Christkindlmarkt can be found. Here, you can sample some delicious warm Glühwein and freshly baked goods.Back on board your Emerald Star-Ship tonight, enjoy live local entertainment showcasing typical Bavarian musical traditions.Included ExcursionGuided Tour of PassauOn this morning’s walking tour, stroll through streets lined by Baroque buildings dating back to the 17th century and look at the Gothic Town Hall, Bishop’s Residence and St. Stephen’s Cathedral, a wonderful example of Baroque architecture and home to the largest church organ in Europe.EmeraldPLUSTraditional Bavarian Band on boardMake your way to the Horizon Bar & Lounge for a special performance from a Bavarian band, who will play traditional music and wear their authentic Lederhosen.

Austria

Linz

Today you will be docked in Linz, the capital of Upper Austria and Austria’s third biggest city after Vienna and Graz. The historical old town has a mix of Baroque and Renaissance architecture, and hand-carved nativity scenes are on display in many of its churches, creating a serene and contemplative Christmas experience.Included ExcursionWalking tour of Linz with a Linzer Torte tastingRug up for a walking tour of Linz, where you can admire its unique mix of historic and contemporary buildings. Finish with a tasting of Linzer torte (a rich tarte filled with fruit preserves), where you’ll learn more about Europe’s most popular desserts named after the town of Linz.DiscoverMOREFull day Excursion to Salzburg (extra expense)The birthplace of Mozart and the picturesque setting for the theatrical masterpiece, The Sound of Music, Salzburg has a unique charm and is surrounded by the breathtaking Alps. Spend a full day exploring this Austrian city, wandering its historic downtown district, exploring the Linzer Gasse shopping street and visiting the home of Mozart.Activity level: Easy, Duration: 10 hours

Austria

Melk

Situated within Austria’s famed Wachau Valley, the county’s premier wine-growing region, Melk is home to a 900-year-old World Heritage-listed Benedictine abbey. Melk sparkles over Christmas, from the beautifully decorated buildings to the lively festive market.Later, your Emerald Star-Ship sails through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Wachau Valley and on to Dürnstein, one of the most enchanting villages in the Wachau wine region.EmeraldPLUSGöttweig Abbey with organ recitalEmbark on a guided tour of Göttweig Abbey, a true treasure overlooking the valley from a hill covered by vineyards and forests. Built in 1083, it’s one of Austria's most important Benedictine abbeys, attracting visitors from around the globe. Run by a community of about 45 monks, it’s visible from a great distance and provides epic panoramas from the grounds. Later, sit down to a moving organ recital.

Austria

Vienna

Welcome to the ‘City of Music’, Vienna. This ornate cityscape was home to famous musicians and composers like Mozart and Beethoven, and the father of psychoanalysis, Sigmund Freud. It has a magical atmosphere over Christmas, with elaborate decorations and more than 20 festive markets.Included ExcursionVienna art tour with a visit to the Kunsthistorisches MuseumFor art lovers, there’s no place like the Austrian capital. Not only is the city packed with museums and artwork, but there is a huge variety across styles and time periods. 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.DiscoverMOREViennese evening concert (extra expense)With Mozart, Beethoven, Strauss and Schubert among its historical repertoire, Vienna is the world capital of opera and classical music. Enjoy an exclusive evening concert at one of Vienna’s most beautiful concert halls, with favourites such as the ‘Blue Danube Waltz’ and the ‘Radetzky March’. A complimentary glass of sparkling wine on arrival adds to the unforgettable occasion.Activity level: Easy, Duration: 2.5 hours

Slovakia

Bratislava

Gothic architecture and fascinating tales of a Communist past welcome you to Bratislava, a capital that has seen much turbulence over the past century. Set at the crossroads of ancient trade routes, this is a place where Baroque palaces, boutiques and cafés adorn medieval cobblestone streets. The Christmas season adds an extra layer to the city, where a blend of distinctive cultures comes together to showcase their handcrafted ornaments and delicious treats.Included ExcursionWalking tour of BratislavaEnjoy a sightseeing tour including the enchanting Old City. Your local guide will take you through the heart of the city. Pass by the botanical gardens of the Episcopal Summer Palace, the Old Town Hall and its delightful Renaissance courtyard and the Slovak National Theatre, where busts of famous composers adorn the façade. After your tour, enjoy free time to explore at leisure.EmeraldPLUSHome-hosted coffee and cake with a Slovakian familyBe invited into the home of a local Slovakian family to learn about their culture over coffee and cake. Get an insight into their history, culture and traditions as they show you how they live every day.DiscoverMORECarpathian wine route (extra expense)Explore the viticultural towns of the Small Carpathian Wine Route, including the vineyards of Vinosady and a family-run winery in Senkvice. You’ll learn about the proud heritage of winemaking and sample some local wines in a historic wine cellar.Activity level: Moderate, Duration 4hr 40min

Hungary

Budapest

Offering an abundance of historical whimsy, Budapest is known for its architectural diversity and famed monuments that pepper both sides of the Danube. This World Heritage-listed city is a true delight at Christmas, when it becomes a magical winter wonderland of decorations, lights and festive cheer. The locals soak in the city’s many thermal baths to beat the crisp chill of the season.This evening, an on board traditional Hungarian folklore show is certain to delight.Included ExcursionGuided coach tour of BudapestEnjoy a guided tour of the city with your local guide this morning. Explore the World Heritage-listed centre, travelling through the chapters of architecture through the ages from Romanesque to Baroque and classical façades. See the Liberty Statue and Heroes’ Square, before a walking tour showcases Matthias Church and the Fisherman’s Bastion. Afterwards, explore the Christmas market.EmeraldPLUSTraditional Hungarian folklore show on boardEnjoy a traditional Hungarian dinner, followed by Hungarian folk dancing and music performance on board.DiscoverMOREExcursion to Szentendre (extra expense)Visit the picturesque village of Szentendre, where cobblestone streets evoke a Mediterranean atmosphere that has inspired many artists. Take a walking tour through the pedestrian city centre to admire the Baroque architecture, churches, colourful houses and narrow, cobbled streets. The main square, Fo Tér, and the alleyways around it are lined with art galleries, museums and shops.Activity level: Moderate, Duration: 4 hoursDiscoverMOREJewish Heritage Tour (extra expense)During this thoughtful tour, your local guide will introduce you to some of the most significant Jewish events that have shaped Budapest's culture. See the buildings that once played important roles in the flourishing Jewish trade that existed prior to World War II. In Pest, the 'Shoes on the Danube' memorial stands as a striking reminder of what happened to the Jewish communities in Budapest during wartime.Activity level: Moderate, Duration: 4 hours

Hungary

Budapest

After breakfast, it’s time to say farewell to your fellow guests. Disembark your Star-Ship for your transfer to the airport and take memories of colourful Christmas markets and crisp winter mornings 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.Please note: Preview itinerary subject to change.

Overview

Prague is a fascinating city full of historical sights, like the Astrological Clock, and Charles Bridge. This special festive twist on our classic itinerary down the Danube makes time for explorations of quirky Budapest, a traditional lunch with Slovakian locals, and marvelling at Vienna’s iconic architecture. All before perusing the Christmas markets of Regensburg, highly regarded as ‘one of the loveliest’.

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Suite

Owners 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.

Suite inclusions

  • Outdoor private balcony with open-air system
  • Separate bedroom and lounge area
  • Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds
  • Pillow menu
  • En-suite bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hair dryer, on-board complimentary bathrobes and slippers
  • Walk-in wardrobe
  • Complimentary in-suite mini- bar, restocked daily with wine, beer and soft drinks
  • Complimentary Nespresso machine
  • Continental breakfast, pre-dinner canapés and after-dinner sweet treats served in your suite
  • Four items of laundry per day
  • Complimentary water, restocked daily
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi
  • Use of an iPad
  • Flat screen TV and infotainment system
  • Individual climate control
  • Personal safe
  • Umbrella
  • Telephone
  • Walking sticks
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.

Suite Inclusions

  • Outdoor private balcony with open-air system
  • Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds
  • Pillow menu
  • En-suite bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hair dryer, on-board complimentary bathrobes and slippers
  • Mini-bar available at own expense
  • Complimentary Nespresso machine
  • Continental breakfast, pre-dinner canapés and after-dinner sweet treats served in your suite
  • Two items of laundry per day
  • Complimentary water, restocked daily
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi
  • Flat screen TV and infotainment system
  • Individual climate control
  • Personal safe
  • Umbrella
  • Telephone
  • Walking sticks

Suite

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. 

Suite Inclusions

  • Indoor balcony with open-air system
  • Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds
  • En-suite bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hair dryer, on-board complimentary bathrobes and slippers
  • Mini-bar available at own expense
  • Complimentary water, restocked daily
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi
  • Flat screen TV and infotainment system
  • Individual climate control
  • Personal safe
  • Umbrella
  • Telephone
  • Walking sticks
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.

Inclusions

  • Picture window
  • Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds
  • En-suite bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hair dryer, on-board complimentary bathrobes and slippers
  • Mini-bar available at own expense
  • Complimentary water, restocked daily
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi
  • Flat screen TV and infotainment system
  • Individual climate control
  • Personal safe
  • Umbrella
  • Telephone
  • Walking sticks
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. 

Inclusions

  • Picture window
  • Queen-size or twin hotel-style beds
  • En-suite bathroom with shower, indulgent toiletries, hair dryer, on-board complimentary bathrobes and slippers
  • Mini-bar available at own expense
  • Complimentary water, restocked daily
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi
  • Flat screen TV and infotainment system
  • Individual climate control
  • Personal safe
  • Umbrella
  • Telephone
  • Walking sticks
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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.

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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.

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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

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Sun Deck

Sun Deck

From the stunning rooftop deck of our Star-Ships, enjoy panoramic views of the passing landscapes and a selection of activities to keep you entertained.

Cinema

Daytime Pool & Bar/Evening Cinema

Pool by day, cinema by night

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.

Activity, Exclusive

The Wheelhouse

The wheelhouse is open for all guests to visit during a river cruise itinerary. If you have a particular interest in river navigation, the wheelhouse can provide a wonderful insight into the role of the captain and the intricacies of working through locks.

Reception

Reception

Whether you want to buy a drinks package, learn about our optional excursions or simply talk with our friendly and attentive crew, the reception is the place to go for questions and enquiries during your time on-board.

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Pool

Pool

Getting your laps in
Spacious on board pools provide plenty of room for swimming.

Pool, Wellness

Wellness Area

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

Take a stroll, stretch those legs and drink in the views on our dedicated walking track. Spanning the perimeter of the ship, it’s there to help you stay active on-board.