Contact UsCall Us Today
Danube Christmas Markets

Danube Christmas Markets

About This Cruise

Explore the Danube Christmas Markets

The Christmas markets along the Danube are an incredible sight. Festive market stalls twinkle with fary lights and are piled high with gingerbread and hand-blown Christmas glass ornaments.

In the heart of Europe’s grand waterways region, immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of the Christmas markets, which have brought festive charm to the banks of the Danube River for centuries.

Who Is This Cruise For?

  • Adults only

    Scenic Crystal is an adults-only ship

  • Couples

    An adults-only atmosphere made for two

  • Over 50s

    A gentle pace with daily excursions and no sea days

Type

River, Luxury

Ship

Scenic Crystal

Departure Date

14 December 2028

Cruise Line

Scenic

Duration

7 Nights

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

Itinerary

Germany

Nuremberg

Welcome to Passau, Germany, and the start of your festive journey through Central Europe. One of the oldest towns in Bavaria, its historic streets and squares will be beautifully decorated for the festive season.Toast to the start of your cruise during an evening reception on board your luxurious Scenic Space-Ship.Please book your flight to arrive into Munich prior to 02:00 PM.

Germany

Passau

Welcome to Passau, Germany, and the start of your festive journey through Central Europe. One of the oldest towns in Bavaria, its historic streets and squares will be beautifully decorated for the festive season.Toast to the start of your cruise during an evening reception on board your luxurious Scenic Space-Ship.Please book your flight to arrive into Munich prior to 02:00 PM.

Germany

Passau

Set on the confluence of the Danube, Inn and Ilz rivers, Passau has been an important trading city since medieval times, particularly for salt, commonly known as ‘white gold’. Each river is distinct in colour and some days you can clearly see the green, blue, and black hues where the waters meet. At the centre of the Baroque city, the 13th century Italianate Old Town is packed with tight laneways, tunnels and archways as well as sparkling Christmas markets.Scenic Freechoice: Decide how you will spend your day from the following Scenic Freechoice excursions:Highlights of Passau walking tour: Enjoy a guided tour of Passau and visit St. Stephens Cathedral, originally built in the year 450. Afterwards, you’ll have some free time to explore the traditional Christmas markets in the square in front of the cathedral.Full day excursion to Salzburg: Journey via coach to Salzburg, the home of Mozart and The Sound of Music. During a guided tour explore this incredible city before enjoying lunch at a local restaurant and some free time to explore.From Germany to Austria: Cycling along River Inn: Take a guided e-bike ride along the River Inn, crossing the border into Austria. Admire the beautiful landscape dotted with charming villages, impressive castles and historic bridges.

Germany

Passau

Enjoy a relaxed morning on board as you cruise towards the vibrant city of Linz, considered the capital of Upper Austria. Though its history dates back more than 1,200 years, modern Linz is known for its vibrant culture of art, architecture and technology. The city has a magical atmosphere during the festive season with multiple Christmas markets taking over its historic squares.Scenic Freechoice: Travel into Czechia or discover more of Linz on today’s excursions:Full day excursion to Ceský Krumlov: Take a guided tour of the Czech town of Ceský Krumlov, considered one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe. Delight in lunch at a local restaurant and some time at leisure.St. Florian Monastery: A Baroque masterpiece: Discover the timeless beauty and spiritual legacy of the ninth-century St. Florian Monastery, a masterpiece of architecture and heritage. Marvel at the beautiful cloisters, the Imperial Library with over 150,000 rare volumes, the exquisite Marble Hall renowned for its intricate frescoes and trompe l’oeil pillars, and the sacred basilica crypt the final resting place of composer Anton Bruckner.Guided tour of Linz: Straddling the Danube River, Linz was founded as a Roman city that connected vital trading routes to Poland, Bohemia and Italy. During this guided tour you’ll see some of its main attractions including the restored Castle of Linz, Saint Martin's Church and the Main Square with its towering Holy Trinity column.With a late departure tonight, you will have time to go on shore and visit some of Linz’s beautiful Christmas markets.

Austria

Linz

Enjoy a relaxed morning on board as you cruise towards the vibrant city of Linz, considered the capital of Upper Austria. Though its history dates back more than 1,200 years, modern Linz is known for its vibrant culture of art, architecture and technology. The city has a magical atmosphere during the festive season with multiple Christmas markets taking over its historic squares.Scenic Freechoice: Travel into Czechia or discover more of Linz on today’s excursions:Full day excursion to Ceský Krumlov: Take a guided tour of the Czech town of Ceský Krumlov, considered one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe. Delight in lunch at a local restaurant and some time at leisure.St. Florian Monastery: A Baroque masterpiece: Discover the timeless beauty and spiritual legacy of the ninth-century St. Florian Monastery, a masterpiece of architecture and heritage. Marvel at the beautiful cloisters, the Imperial Library with over 150,000 rare volumes, the exquisite Marble Hall renowned for its intricate frescoes and trompe l’oeil pillars, and the sacred basilica crypt the final resting place of composer Anton Bruckner.Guided tour of Linz: Straddling the Danube River, Linz was founded as a Roman city that connected vital trading routes to Poland, Bohemia and Italy. During this guided tour you’ll see some of its main attractions including the restored Castle of Linz, Saint Martin's Church and the Main Square with its towering Holy Trinity column.With a late departure tonight, you will have time to go on shore and visit some of Linz’s beautiful Christmas markets.

Your Scenic Space-Ship will dock this morning in the small and picturesque town of Melk, located in Austria’s scenic Wachau Valley. Best known for its sunshine yellow abbey, the pretty Old Town will be alive with festive cheer and the sound of Christmas carols.Scenic Freechoice: Melk Benedictine Abbey: No visit to Melk would be complete without a guided tour of the magnificent 18th-century Benedictine Abbey. Wander its 900-year-old hallowed grounds, visit the decorated Marble Hall and the library, filled with more than 80,000 books, and be awed by the Abbey Church, adorned in frescoes and intricate statues.UNESCO Wachau e-Bike experience: Embark on a guided e-bike ride to soak up the scenery along the Danube as you cycle from Melk to the quaint village of Dürnstein. You’ll pass by small villages and through rolling vineyards, stopping along the way to enjoy the river views.This afternoon is spent on board your Scenic Space-Ship, cruising the beautiful Wachau Valley. While you bask in the spectacular views you will have the opportunity to indulge in some delicious local produce. Your Cruise Director will organise a special treat for you and invite a local producer on board to share some regional delicacies that are famous in this region. Sample local schnapps among other delights in this breathtaking location.

Austria

Dürnstein

Your Scenic Space-Ship will dock this morning in the small and picturesque town of Melk, located in Austria’s scenic Wachau Valley. Best known for its sunshine yellow abbey, the pretty Old Town will be alive with festive cheer and the sound of Christmas carols.Scenic Freechoice: Melk Benedictine Abbey: No visit to Melk would be complete without a guided tour of the magnificent 18th-century Benedictine Abbey. Wander its 900-year-old hallowed grounds, visit the decorated Marble Hall and the library, filled with more than 80,000 books, and be awed by the Abbey Church, adorned in frescoes and intricate statues.UNESCO Wachau e-Bike experience: Embark on a guided e-bike ride to soak up the scenery along the Danube as you cycle from Melk to the quaint village of Dürnstein. You’ll pass by small villages and through rolling vineyards, stopping along the way to enjoy the river views.This afternoon is spent on board your Scenic Space-Ship, cruising the beautiful Wachau Valley. While you bask in the spectacular views you will have the opportunity to indulge in some delicious local produce. Your Cruise Director will organise a special treat for you and invite a local producer on board to share some regional delicacies that are famous in this region. Sample local schnapps among other delights in this breathtaking location.

Austria

Vienna

Wake up in Vienna this morning. It’s a city full of grandeur, featuring the world’s most beautiful boulevard, the Ringstrasse, and the legacy of the Habsburg monarchy. Also known as the City of Music, Vienna fostered the musical geniuses Mozart and Beethoven, among others. . Over the festive season, its elegant buildings are strung with fairy lights, and markets, huge Christmas trees and ice rinks pop up all over the city.Scenic Freechoice: Explore your way with a selection from today's Scenic Freechoice activities:Visit Schönbrunn Palace: Join your local guide on an exploration of Schönbrunn Palace, the former summer residence of the Habsburg family, one of the most prominent dynasties in European history. Discover the countless rooms where famous artists and craftsmen from many different epochs created interiors of great beauty and learn the history and tales of the royal family that lived in these walls. After the guided tour you will have some time to see the impressive gardens before returning to your Scenic Space-Ship.Guided tour of Vienna: The city centre of Vienna is brimming with history, elegance and diverse architecture. During this tour your expert local guide will delight you with stories from the city before allowing you free time to discover Vienna’s gorgeous Christmas markets.Highlights of Central Vienna & Kunsthistorisches Museum: Discover a wealth of artistic treasures in Vienna’s premiere art museum. The museum is an architectural masterpiece in itself. Created by Gottfried Semper and Carl von Hasenauer to showcase the imperial art collections of the Habsburgs, its design mirrors that of the Naturhistorisches Museum with a grand facade featuring a prominent central dome, ornate reliefs, and statues representing major figures and cities in art history.This afternoon is free to wander around Vienna and explore the city’s captivating Christmas markets.Scenic EnrichPalais Liechtenstein: Take in the opulence and luxury of Palais Liechtenstein this evening as you relish an exclusive private classical concert. Enjoy a glass of fine Austrian Sekt and listen to the timeless music of Strauss and Mozart performed by a renowned orchestra. An experience only shared with your fellow Scenic guests, you’ll be seated in Vienna’s largest secular baroque hall, an ornate space where royals and nobles have sat for centuries. Accompanied by ballet dancers and vocalists and surrounded by world-famous art, this will be a concert that you’ll remember for a lifetime.

Slovakia

Bratislava

Slovakia’s capital since independence in 1993, Bratislava is a modern multicultural metropolis with an intriguing history. Its Old Town is filled with glorious examples of medieval and Gothic architecture and a well-preserved hilltop castle, which dates to the 9th century. These charming historic sites contrast with the brutalist socialist architecture evident around the city. During the festive season, the city becomes a winter wonderland with colourful decorations, twinkling lights, Christmas markets and the illuminated Christmas Tram running through the centre.Scenic Freechoice: Choose from today’s Scenic Freechoice excursions:Walking tour of Bratislava: Explore Bratislava with a knowledgeable local guide to see the highlights of the city such as the Hlavné Námestie, the main square and the Old Town Hall. As you walk, learn about the history of the city and enjoy mulled wine from the local Christmas market.Communist walk: Journey behind the Iron Curtain to explore Bratislava’s complex and compelling history during the communist regime. Discover how this controversial era shaped the daily lives of Slovaks, with impacts that were sometimes positive, often negative, and always fascinating.Ancestry of the kitchen cooking class: One of the best ways to explore a culture is through its cuisine and during this hands-on workshop you will do just that, as you learn how to prepare traditional Slovak Bryndzové Halušky (potato dumplings with cheese).

Hungary

Budapest

Today you’ll arrive in Budapest, one of Europe’s most diverse and vibrant cities. Divided by the Danube, with Buda on one side and Pest on the other, the city came together in 1873 when a newly built bridge connected the two. Budapest is an architectural treasure trove comprising styles from Gothic to Art Nouveau and everything in between. It is also well known for its hot springs and thermal baths and has a vibrant nightlife scene. Over Christmas, its most iconic buildings will be strung with decorations and illuminated with twinkling lights and projections. The festive cheer and cold, crisp weather – and maybe even a dusting of snow – creates a magical atmosphere.Scenic Freechoice: A range of Scenic Freechoice activities are on offer to choose from today:Budapest in Depth: Explore this magical city by coach. Visit both Buda and Pest, the two districts separated by the Danube. Starting on the Buda side see the Várkert Bazár before crossing the Margaret Bridge to the Pest side where you will see Széchenyi Square and Elizabeth Square. End your tour with a visit to Budapest’s lively Christmas markets.Guided hike of Buda: Strap on your walking shoes for a beautiful hike through the Buda district of the city. On your walk, see Varket Bazar and beautifully landscaped gardens, all while enjoying great views over the Danube River and the city architecture.National Opera House tour: Get a captivating glimpse of the stunning architecture and rich history of the Hungarian State Opera House. You’ll walk through opulent interiors and learn about the Opera House’s cultural significance.Your ship will remain docked in Budapest overnight, so you can spend some time soaking in the festive charm of the city’s Christmas markets.

Hungary

Budapest

After a hearty breakfast, you’ll be transferred to Budapest Airport for your onward or homebound flight, taking a lifetime of wonderful festive memories 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.Please note: Preview itinerary subject to change.

Overview

Explore the Danube Christmas Markets

The Christmas markets along the Danube are an incredible sight. Festive market stalls twinkle with fary lights and are piled high with gingerbread and hand-blown Christmas glass ornaments.

In the heart of Europe’s grand waterways region, immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of the Christmas markets, which have brought festive charm to the banks of the Danube River for centuries.

View More Images
Suite

Royal Owner's Suite

These Suites on the Diamond Deck are the ultimate in luxury with more space (315ft²), impeccable service, thoughtful touches, an outdoor balcony, lounge area and an oversized bathroom.

Suite Highlights

  • A luxury queen sized Scenic Slumber Bed
  • Scenic Sun Lounge, for wide-angle splendour at the press of a button
  • Separate lounge area
  • Oversized bathroom with separate shower and bath, and upgraded bathroom amenities.

Amenities & Features

  • Exclusive invitation to dine at Table La Rive or Table d’Or
  • Priority reservations at selected dining venues
  • A complimentary welcome bottle of Champagne (750ml)
  • €200 per suite on board credit for use in the Wellness Centre
  • Private arrival and departure transfers in Europe*.
  • Personalised butler service, including unlimited complimentary laundry, shoeshine and valet, early morning tea and coffee services and a daily delivery of savoury and sweet canapés or fruit
  • Mini bar, replenished daily
  • Pillow menu, including anti-aging, low-allergy and memory-foam neck pillows
  • Nightly turndown service
  • Bathrobes and slippers
  • In-suite safe

View More Images
Suite

Royal Panorama Suite

      These Suites located on the Diamond Deck are the ultimate in luxury with more space, impeccable service, thoughtful touches, an outdoor balcony, lounge area and an oversized bathroom.

      Suite Highlights

      • A luxury queen sized Scenic Slumber Bed
      • Scenic Sun Lounge, for wide-angle splendour at the press of a button
      • Separate lounge area
      • Oversized bathroom with separate shower and bath, and upgraded bathroom amenities

      Amenities & Features

      • Exclusive invitation to dine at Table La Rive or Table d’Or
      • Priority reservations at selected dining venues
      • A complimentary welcome bottle of champagne (750ml)
      • €200 per suite on board credit for use in the Wellness Centre
      • Private arrival and departure transfers in Europe*
      • Personalised butler service, including unlimited complimentary laundry, shoeshine and valet, early morning tea and coffee services and a daily delivery of savoury and sweet canapés or fruit
      • Mini bar, replenished daily
      • Pillow menu, including anti-aging, low-allergy and memory-foam neck pillows
      • Nightly turndown service
      • Bathrobes and slippers
      • In-suite safe

      View More Images
      Suite

      Royal Balcony Suite

      These Suites located on the Diamond Deck are the ultimate in luxury with more space, impeccable service, thoughtful touches, an outdoor balcony, lounge area and an oversized bathroom.

      Suite Highlights

      • A luxury queen sized Scenic Slumber Bed
      • Scenic Sun Lounge, for wide-angle splendour at the press of a button
      • Separate lounge area
      • Oversized bathroom with separate shower and bath, and upgraded bathroom amenities

      Amenities & Features

      • Exclusive invitation to dine at Table La Rive or Table d’Or
      • Priority reservations at selected dining venues
      • A complimentary welcome bottle of champagne (750ml)
      • €200 per suite on board credit for use in the Wellness Centre
      • Private arrival and departure transfers in Europe*
      • Personalised butler service, including unlimited complimentary laundry, shoeshine and valet, early morning tea and coffee services and a daily delivery of savoury and sweet canapés or fruit
      • Mini bar, replenished daily
      • Pillow menu, including anti-aging, low-allergy and memory-foam neck pillows
      • Nightly turndown service
      • Bathrobes and slippers
      • In-suite safe

      View More Images
      Suite

      Deluxe Balcony Suite

      Located in prime locations at the front of the ship on both the Sapphire and Diamond Decks, they offer all the features of our private Balcony Suites with our ingenious Scenic Sun Lounge, but with even more space to relax.

      View More Images
      Suite

      Junior Balcony Suite

      Our spacious Junior Suites blend ultra-luxury seamlessly with comfort. Unwind in your Scenic Sun Lounge and enjoy complimentary daily canapés and other enticing Diamond Deck benefits.

      Room Highlights

      • A luxury queen-sized Scenic Slumber Bed
      • Scenic Sun Lounge, your all weather balcony at the press of a button
      • Spacious bathroom with luxurious amenities

      Amenities & Features

      • Exclusive invitation to dine at Table La Rive/Table d’Or
      • Priority reservations at selected dining venues Personalised butler service for every suite
      • Complimentary laundry service once per suite
      • Daily pressing for two pieces of clothing
      • In-suite breakfast with early morning tea and coffee services available
      • Daily delivery of savoury and sweet canapés or fruit
      • Mini bar, replenished daily
      • Pillow menu, including anti-aging, low-allergy and memory-foam neck pillows
      • Nightly turndown service
      • Bathrobes and slippers
      • In-suite safe

      View More Images
      Suite

      Balcony Suite

      Located on the Sapphire and Diamond Decks these stylishly decorated suites feature a full-length outdoor balcony with the exclusive Scenic Sun Lounge and offer private bathrooms with a luxurious vanity basin and shower.

      Room Highlights

      • A luxury queen sized Scenic Slumber Bed
      • Scenic Sun Lounge, for wide-angle splendour at the press of a button
      • Spacious bathroom with luxurious amenities

      Amenities & Features

      • Personalised butler service for every suite
      • Complimentary laundry service once per suite
      • Early morning tea and coffee
      • Beverage service in your suite
      • Mini bar, replenished daily
      • Pillow menu, including anti-aging, low-allergy and memory-foam neck pillows
      • Nightly turndown service
      • Bathrobes and slippers
      • In-suite safe
      • Shoeshine and valet service. 

      Suite

      Single Balcony Suite

      Located on the Sapphire deck this suite is perfect for the solo traveller. Enjoy fantastic views from your full size balcony complete with Scenic Sun Lounge. This cabin also includes an elegant bathroom with a luxurious vanity basin and shower.

      Room Highlights

      • A luxury queen sized Scenic Slumber Bed
      • Scenic Sun Lounge, for wide-angle splendour at the press of a button
      • Spacious bathroom with luxurious amenities

      Amenities & Features

      • Personalised butler service for every suite
      • Complimentary laundry service once per suite
      • Early morning tea and coffee
      • Beverage service in your suite
      • Mini bar, replenished daily
      • Pillow menu, including anti-aging, low-allergy and memory-foam neck pillows
      • Nightly turndown service
      • Bathrobes and slippers
      • In-suite safe
      • Shoeshine and valet service. 

      Suite

      Standard Suite

      Perfect for guests who like to spend more time on the Sun Deck and in public areas, Standard Suites include luxury amenities and a picture window for you to marvel at the stunning scenery.

      Room Highlights

      • A luxury queen sized Scenic Slumber Bed
      • Spacious bathroom with luxurious amenities

      Amenities & Features

      • Personalised butler service
      • Complimentary laundry service once per suite
      • Early morning tea and coffee
      • Mini bar, replenished daily
      • Pillow menu, including anti-aging, low-allergy and memory-foam neck pillows
      • Shoeshine and valet service
      • Nightly turndown service
      • In-suite safe.

      View More Images
      casual

      Crystal Dining

      Enjoy à la carte menus for breakfast, lunch and dinner at Crystal Dining. Available on all Europe and South East Asia river cruises, this main restaurant offers a relaxed dining experience with local delicacies. 

      View More Images
      italian

      Portobellos

      With up to only 32 guests an evening, the exclusive and intimate Portobellos showcase sumptuous regional specialities. The delectable five-course menu features either Italian, French or Portuguese cuisine (depending on your cruise location), paired with elegant wines, and is available on all European river cruises.

      View More Images
      fine

      Table La Rive

      Featuring a six-course degustation, the exclusive Table La Rive on our European river cruises offers an intimate dining experience for only 10 guests per evening. Guests staying on the Diamond Deck for 10 nights or longer, as well as Royal and Junior Suite guests staying for up to nine nights, will be invited by our Executive Chef.

      casual

      Riverview Terrace

      Enjoy a refreshing afternoon aperitif or pick-me-up light bite on the Riverview Terrace, an open-air lounge and bar area located on the Sun Deck. Alfresco living doesn’t get better, with all-inclusive refreshments to complement the rapturous views.

      View More Images
      casual

      River Cafe

      Offering a casual dining experience, you can enjoy all-day grazing options, light snacks and tasty treats to suit your schedule. The River Café is available on all Europe and South East Asia river cruises.

      View More Images
      room

      In-Suite Dining

      Choose to dine in the comfort of your luxurious suite, while taking in the incredible views and enjoy included room service throughout your cruise.  

      View More Images
      Lounge

      Panorama Lounge & Bar

      Explore our extensive wine list, relax with a coffee or catch-up with new-found friends at the Panorama Lounge & Bar. This is the main bar lounge on-board our Space-Ships, and it’s tastefully furnished to guarantee your comfort and enjoyment.

      View More Images
      Sun Deck

      The Sun Deck

      Make the most of every ray of sunshine with our purpose-built Sun Deck. Complete with deck chairs and a games area, this is a place to kick back and enjoy the view as your Space-Ship travels to its next destination.

      Reception

      Reception

      Whatever you need on your cruise through Europe, our welcoming reception team is here to ensure your trip goes down without a hitch. The reception area is also the meeting point for the day’s shore excursions; you’ll find it in the middle of the Scenic Crystal.

      Bar

      All Inclusive Beverages

      Sit back and enjoy a beverage of your choice while cruising spectacular waterways, at your leisure. Sip on handcrafted cocktails or a full-bodied wine – the choice is yours.

      You will enjoy:

      • Unlimited complimentary premium international beverages^, including international wines, beers and spirits
      • Full in-suite mini bar, restocked daily
      • Refillable water bottle for all onshore excursions
      • An extensive range of specialty teas and espresso coffees
      • This selection is available all day, every day.

      *Exclusive invitation for Diamond Deck and Junior Suite guests cruising for 10 nights or more, or Royal and Junior Suite guests for 9 nights or fewer.

      ^All beverages are included except a very small number of fine and vintage wines, champagnes and spirits.

      Observation Point

      Wheelhouse

      The Wheelhouse is where our expert crew pilot your Space-Ship, negotiating the twists and turns of the Danube with the utmost precision and care. Stop by to chat with the team and take a peek behind the scenes.

      Art Gallery

      Gallery

      Our Gallery spaces are dedicated to showcasing works by local artists, so you feel connected to people and place in every destination. We believe little touches like this are what make our European river cruises so special.

      Spa

      Wellness Area

      Maintain your wellness routine at our state-of-the-art gym, morning stretching classes^ with the Wellness Coach or rejuvenating spa treatments*. Exercise on the walking track on the Sun Deck or take a dip in the Vitality Pool.

      Spa, Wellness

      Salt Therapy Lounge

      This innovative lounge# is featured on most of our Space-Ships in Europe. The salt brick walls of the humidity and temperature-controlled lounge are known to offer a range of health benefits for respiratory and immune systems.

      Gym

      Fitness Centre

      Stay active on your travels with a visit to our designated Fitness Centre. Featuring the latest workout equipment, including both cardio and weight-training machines, this is a space where you can work up a sweat and get ready for another unforgettable day on the river.

      Pool, Whirlpool/Jacuzzi

      Vitality Pool

      Admire the passing views, or take a rejuvenating dip in the Vitality Pool.