Iconic Christmas Markets

Iconic Christmas Markets

About This Cruise

Travel back through centuries as you walk along cobblestone streets through grand cities and historic towns bedecked with twinkling Christmas trees and lined with wooden huts gleaming with handcrafted treasures. Iconic Christmas Markets are plentiful and are on full display for your pleasure. Nuremberg’s festive Christkindlesmarkt, the largest and oldest Christmas Market in Germany; Regensburg’s Artisan Christmas Market at Thurn and Taxis Castle, considered one of Bavaria’s most beautiful and romantic; Vienna with its impressive Christmas Markets that seem to majestically appear around every corner; and Budapest, where products sold in the market are traditionally handmade. Revel in a feast for the senses: sparkling lights; festive sounds of children dressed as angels singing carols; and enticing smells of hot-mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, sausages and sweet treats of every kind.

Who Is This Cruise For?

  • Adults only

    AmaLea 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

AmaLea

Departure Date

5 December 2026

Cruise Line

AmaWaterways

Duration

7 Nights

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

Itinerary

Germany

Nuremberg

NUREMBERG, GERMANY – EMBARKATION. Board the ship for your Iconic Christmas Markets cruise. (D)

Germany

Nuremberg

NUREMBERG. Join a city tour of WWII highlights and then walk through Nuremberg’s cobblestone streets to the Imperial Castle and 900-year-old city ramparts, followed by a visit to Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt, one of the world’s largest and most famous Christmas Markets. You can also choose to spend the entire morning exploring this iconic Christmas Market. For those looking for a taste of Nuremberg, depart for Nuremberg Imperial Castle and visit City Brewery where you will delight your palate with savory Nuremberg sausage and beer. Then continue to Sebalder Kirche (church) where you will nibble on sweet and spicy lebkuchen, a baked treat similar to gingerbread. End the day crossing the Continental Divide via the Main-Danube Canal. (B,L,D)

Germany

Regensburg

REGENSBURG, GERMANY. Regensburg is one of Germany’s best preserved medieval cities, as well as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Join a guided walking tour showcasing the city’s architectural highlights, including the Old Town Hall and the Porta Praetoria, before visiting the Old Town Christmas Market. As an alternate option, sample some of Bavaria’s specialties—beer, sausage and pretzels. Or bike to the base of Walhalla where there is a neoclassical white marble temple inspired by the Parthenon in Athens. For those in a festive mood, head to one of Bavaria’s most beautiful and romantic Christmas Markets at Thurn and Taxis, where you can watch artisans make their unique arts and crafts. (B,L,D)

Germany

Passau

PASSAU, GERMANY. Join a walking tour of this 2,000-year-old city, noted for its Gothic and ItalianBaroque architecture and St. Stephen’s. Go in search of Bavarian-style crafts at the Christmas Market. Or, for the active adventurer, join a guided bike tour along the Danube. Alternatively, you can travel through the serene Austrian Alps to Salzburg, birthplace of Mozart. Your full-day excursion in Salzburg includes a walking tour of the UNESCO-designated Old Town, its magnificent cathedral and its Christmas Markets. (B,L,D)*Not combinable with other tours on this day.

Austria

Melk

MELK, AUSTRIA – VIENNA, AUSTRIA. High on a rocky outcrop lies the Melk Abbey, one of Europe’s most revered Baroque monasteries. Visit this magnificent and storied abbey, which now houses a museum chronicling its history and a famous library with countless medieval manuscripts. Alternatively, go on a guided bike ride around Melk. (B,L,D)

Austria

Vienna

Vienna is the capital and largest city of Austria. Located on the Danube River in the East of the country, the city is renowned for its strong music heritage and rich culture, and is the largest German speaking city in the world, outside of Berlin. In 2001, Vienna was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and boasts magnificent architecture. The city is home to over 27 castles and 150 palaces including the symbolic Gothic St Stephen’s Cathedral and the iconic Schönbrunn Palace. Art and music are in abundance and all tastes are catered for. Live music venues offer everything from Rock to Opera. Enjoy world class performances at Vienna State Opera and experience the epicentre of international concert life at Musikverein. Modern and historical art can be found in indoor and outdoor spaces around the city, and a visit to the famous Kunsthistorisches Museum (KHM) is highly recommended. Enjoy views of the city from the Danube Tower and the Giant Ferris Wheel, then relax in the ample cosy coffee houses, cafes, bars and restaurants where traditional and international cuisines are served, as well as the locally produced wines.

Austria

Vienna

VIENNA. The “City of Waltzes” offers a treasure trove of gems just waiting to be discovered. Join a tour showcasing its regal splendors, such as the majestic Opera House and the former Imperial Palace ofthe Habsburgs along with an opportunity to visit the city’s Christmas Markets. If you prefer a more active adventure, then join a guided bike along the Danube River. In the afternoon, visit Schönbrunn Palace Christmas Market and its spectacular festive atmosphere. (B,L,D)

Hungary

Budapest

BUDAPEST, HUNGARY. Today you have the opportunity to visit both the Buda (hilly) and Pest (flat) sides of the Danube River. Start on the Buda side, following your guide through the city’s Castle District where you will marvel at the fairytale turrets of Fisherman’s Bastion, gaze upon the breathtaking panorama below and see Matthias Church, renowned for its striking tower and colorful mosaic roof. You will also visit the city’s famed Christmas Markets. For a more active tour, hike to Budapest’s Castle Hill. In the afternoon, explore the treasures of Pest, admiring the colossal Hungarian Parliament Building, Heroes’ Square and the moving “Shoes on the Danube Bank” memorial. (B,L,D)

Hungary

Budapest

BUDAPEST – DISEMBARKATION. Disembark the ship in Budapest and bid farewell to the city before preparing for your return flight home. (B)

Overview

Travel back through centuries as you walk along cobblestone streets through grand cities and historic towns bedecked with twinkling Christmas trees and lined with wooden huts gleaming with handcrafted treasures. Iconic Christmas Markets are plentiful and are on full display for your pleasure. Nuremberg’s festive Christkindlesmarkt, the largest and oldest Christmas Market in Germany; Regensburg’s Artisan Christmas Market at Thurn and Taxis Castle, considered one of Bavaria’s most beautiful and romantic; Vienna with its impressive Christmas Markets that seem to majestically appear around every corner; and Budapest, where products sold in the market are traditionally handmade. Revel in a feast for the senses: sparkling lights; festive sounds of children dressed as angels singing carols; and enticing smells of hot-mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, sausages and sweet treats of every kind.

Suite

Suite

Spacious Staterooms and Suites

Unwind in thoughtfully designed rooms with room to relax and enjoy the river views. Elegant décor and comfortable spaces create a peaceful retreat to start and end the day.

Balconies and Panoramic Views

Take in ever-changing scenery from your room, whether through a picture window, French balcony, or our signature twin balcony design. Each offers its own beautiful perspective of the river.

Comfort and Understated Luxury

Experience the art of subtle indulgence in every room. Soft fabrics, marble-tiled bathrooms, and thoughtful touches elevate each room into a sanctuary of effortless luxury.

  • Violin Deck
  • Suite
  • French Balcony & Outside Balcony

Balcony

Category AA

Spacious Staterooms and Suites

Unwind in thoughtfully designed rooms with room to relax and enjoy the river views. Elegant décor and comfortable spaces create a peaceful retreat to start and end the day.

Balconies and Panoramic Views

Take in ever-changing scenery from your room, whether through a picture window, French balcony, or our signature twin balcony design. Each offers its own beautiful perspective of the river.

Comfort and Understated Luxury

Experience the art of subtle indulgence in every room. Soft fabrics, marble-tiled bathrooms, and thoughtful touches elevate each room into a sanctuary of effortless luxury.

  • Violin Deck
  • Category AA
  • French Balcony & Outside Balcony

Balcony

Category AB

Spacious Staterooms and Suites

Unwind in thoughtfully designed rooms with room to relax and enjoy the river views. Elegant décor and comfortable spaces create a peaceful retreat to start and end the day.

Balconies and Panoramic Views

Take in ever-changing scenery from your room, whether through a picture window, French balcony, or our signature twin balcony design. Each offers its own beautiful perspective of the river.

Comfort and Understated Luxury

Experience the art of subtle indulgence in every room. Soft fabrics, marble-tiled bathrooms, and thoughtful touches elevate each room into a sanctuary of effortless luxury.

  • Cello Deck
  • Category AB
  • French Balcony & Outside Balcony

Balcony

Category BA

Spacious Staterooms and Suites

Unwind in thoughtfully designed rooms with room to relax and enjoy the river views. Elegant décor and comfortable spaces create a peaceful retreat to start and end the day.

Balconies and Panoramic Views

Take in ever-changing scenery from your room, whether through a picture window, French balcony, or our signature twin balcony design. Each offers its own beautiful perspective of the river.

Comfort and Understated Luxury

Experience the art of subtle indulgence in every room. Soft fabrics, marble-tiled bathrooms, and thoughtful touches elevate each room into a sanctuary of effortless luxury.

  • Violin Deck
  • Category BA
  • French Balcony & Outside Balcony

Balcony

Category BB

Spacious Staterooms and Suites

Unwind in thoughtfully designed rooms with room to relax and enjoy the river views. Elegant décor and comfortable spaces create a peaceful retreat to start and end the day.

Balconies and Panoramic Views

Take in ever-changing scenery from your room, whether through a picture window, French balcony, or our signature twin balcony design. Each offers its own beautiful perspective of the river.

Comfort and Understated Luxury

Experience the art of subtle indulgence in every room. Soft fabrics, marble-tiled bathrooms, and thoughtful touches elevate each room into a sanctuary of effortless luxury.

  • Cello Deck
  • Category BB
  • French Balcony & Outside Balcony

Balcony

Category CA

Spacious Staterooms and Suites

Unwind in thoughtfully designed rooms with room to relax and enjoy the river views. Elegant décor and comfortable spaces create a peaceful retreat to start and end the day.

Balconies and Panoramic Views

Take in ever-changing scenery from your room, whether through a picture window, French balcony, or our signature twin balcony design. Each offers its own beautiful perspective of the river.

Comfort and Understated Luxury

Experience the art of subtle indulgence in every room. Soft fabrics, marble-tiled bathrooms, and thoughtful touches elevate each room into a sanctuary of effortless luxury.

  • Cello Deck
  • Category CA
  • French Balcony

Balcony

Category CB

Spacious Staterooms and Suites

Unwind in thoughtfully designed rooms with room to relax and enjoy the river views. Elegant décor and comfortable spaces create a peaceful retreat to start and end the day.

Balconies and Panoramic Views

Take in ever-changing scenery from your room, whether through a picture window, French balcony, or our signature twin balcony design. Each offers its own beautiful perspective of the river.

Comfort and Understated Luxury

Experience the art of subtle indulgence in every room. Soft fabrics, marble-tiled bathrooms, and thoughtful touches elevate each room into a sanctuary of effortless luxury.

  • Violin Deck
  • Category CB
  • French Balcony

Outside

Category D

Spacious Staterooms and Suites

Unwind in thoughtfully designed rooms with room to relax and enjoy the river views. Elegant décor and comfortable spaces create a peaceful retreat to start and end the day.

Comfort and Understated Luxury

Experience the art of subtle indulgence in every room. Soft fabrics, marble-tiled bathrooms, and thoughtful touches elevate each room into a sanctuary of effortless luxury.

  • Piano Deck
  • Category D
  • Fixed Windows

Outside

Category E

Spacious Staterooms and Suites

Unwind in thoughtfully designed rooms with room to relax and enjoy the river views. Elegant décor and comfortable spaces create a peaceful retreat to start and end the day.

Comfort and Understated Luxury

Experience the art of subtle indulgence in every room. Soft fabrics, marble-tiled bathrooms, and thoughtful touches elevate each room into a sanctuary of effortless luxury.

  • Piano Deck
  • Category E
  • Fixed Windows

classic

Journeys Restaurant

Experience award-winning cuisine inspired by the regions you sail through. Every dish is crafted from the freshest local ingredients and presented with elegance, turning each meal into a celebration of flavor, artistry, and place.

Regional Flavors and Fresh Ingredients

Taste the essence of every destination through cuisine crafted from locally sourced ingredients and using regional traditions, bringing the authentic flavors of your travel destination directly to your table.

Perfectly Paired Wines and Beverages

Pair dishes with regional wines, beers, or handcrafted cocktails, thoughtfully chosen by our sommeliers to complement each dish and enhance your dining experience throughout the journey.

chef

The Chef’s Table

Enjoy an intimate, multi-course dinner where culinary artistry shines at The Chef’s Table, available on select sailings. Watch as our chefs prepare each course before your eyes, pairing exquisite flavors with impeccable service.

Bar, Lounge

Main Lounge & Bar

With fewer guests on board, you can enjoy the luxury of space to unwind, relax and reconnect with your loved ones. Our public areas, including lounges and restaurants, are never overcrowded.

Lounge, Theatre

Onboard Entertainment

Onboard Performances and Musical Evenings

Throughout many voyages, the ship’s lounge transforms into a stage for local ensembles, jazz duos, and classical quartets

Select sailings have Music Hosts, conductors and musicians who guide you through historical context, lead onboard performances, and deepen your connection with the region’s musical heritage.

Live Regional Performances On Ship

Even on non-themed sailings, enjoy musical offerings like local performances, curated playlists, and connections to the musical stories of the rivers you traverse.

Reception

Reception

The Reception is located on the Violin Deck.

Shop

Gift Shop

The Gift Shop can be found on the Violin Deck.

Salon

Beauty & Hair Salon

Whether you’d like to dress up for the captain’s special dinner or a night out on the town, you can complete your look by getting your hair styled in our salon.

Gym

Fitness Room

Stay energized with fitness classes, a session in the gym, or an afternoon pickleball game on board, or seek an active hike or bike ride on shore.

Pool

Sun Deck Pool

Find calm in beautifully designed areas made for rest and reflection, whether it’s a quiet lounge, the Sun Deck, or simply watching the river drift by.

Exercise Class

Fitness Classes

Start the day with intention through gentle stretching, yoga, or quiet moments on deck, surrounded by fresh air and flowing scenery.

Wellness

Massage Services

Rejuvenate body and spirit with soothing spa and massage treatments, offering the perfect balance of indulgence and serenity.