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Danube Holiday Markets

with UNIWORLD Boutique River Cruises
Dec. 16, 2027 - Dec. 23, 2027
8 days6 ports

Budapest has celebrated Christmas for a thousand years, since the reign of St. Stephen, the king who founded Hungary and encouraged the spread of Christianity throughout his realm. As you ramble through the Christmas Market on Vörösmarty Square, admiring the handmade porcelain, stop to watch as kürtos kalács (a pastry) is baked on rods over an open fire and then coated with sugar before it's handed to you.In Bratislava, where a lively young art scene is revitalizing the compact city core, stalls abound with traditional Slovakian Christmas items such as medovníky (spiced ginger cookies) and šúpolie (figurines made from corn husks). Experience Uniworld's exclusive "Taste of Christmas" program in the heart of Vienna during the day.Glorious baroque architecture, delightful concerts and ravishing scenery will make this Christmas season unforgettable as you sail through the holidays on the Danube.Please note that most Christmas Markets in Europe end their season on the 23rd of December and will not be available after that date.

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Itinerary

Day 1: Passau
Day 2: Passau
Day 3: Linz
Day 4: Krems
Day 5: Vienna
Day 6: Bratislava
Day 7: Budapest
Day 8: Budapest
Day 1: Passau

Passau is a German city located in the Southeast of Germany on the Austrian border. It is situated at the confluence of the rivers Danube, Inn and Ilz. The Three Rivers City, as it’s also known, is unique for its three contrasting currents of blue, green and black. Old Town of Passau is home to towering buildings of striking architecture: the majestic fortress Veste Oberhaus, the Pilgrimage Church Mariahilf and St Stephen’s Cathedral. Many of Passau’s attractions can be found in this area, including the New Bishop’s Residence, the Gothic Town Hall, as well as many churches and museums. Visitors can stroll along the riverfront promenades and romantic lanes whilst enjoying the picturesque landscape. For modern art, The Museum of Modern Art and Glass Museum Passau are recommended as they offer something a bit different. Theatre and cabaret are a popular evening pastime, with performances at the former Prince Bishopric Theatre or some lively cabaret and Jazz at the Scharfrichterhaus. Visitors will also find many traditional local Bavarian and Austrian cafes and restaurants offering a cosy atmosphere with home cooked food from local produce.

Day programme:

Arrive at Munich Airport. If you have arranged a Uniworld arrival transfer, you will be greeted by a Uniworld representative and transferred to the ship.

Day 2: Passau

Passau is a German city located in the Southeast of Germany on the Austrian border. It is situated at the confluence of the rivers Danube, Inn and Ilz. The Three Rivers City, as it’s also known, is unique for its three contrasting currents of blue, green and black. Old Town of Passau is home to towering buildings of striking architecture: the majestic fortress Veste Oberhaus, the Pilgrimage Church Mariahilf and St Stephen’s Cathedral. Many of Passau’s attractions can be found in this area, including the New Bishop’s Residence, the Gothic Town Hall, as well as many churches and museums. Visitors can stroll along the riverfront promenades and romantic lanes whilst enjoying the picturesque landscape. For modern art, The Museum of Modern Art and Glass Museum Passau are recommended as they offer something a bit different. Theatre and cabaret are a popular evening pastime, with performances at the former Prince Bishopric Theatre or some lively cabaret and Jazz at the Scharfrichterhaus. Visitors will also find many traditional local Bavarian and Austrian cafes and restaurants offering a cosy atmosphere with home cooked food from local produce.

Day programme:

Passau is a crossroads in more ways than one—three rivers meet here and three nations nearly do, making for a fascinating cultural mosaic. Get to know the town with a guided stroll, then visit the local Christmas Market on the square in front of the cathedral. You’ll find a lot to enjoy here—from miniature houses and blown-glass ornaments to spun-sugar confections—in more than 70 stalls.

Day 3: Linz

Linz is a city in northern Austria located on both banks of the Danube River and is a short distance from Salzburg and Vienna. Linz has been awarded UNESCO City of Media Arts status and prides itself on offering a broad spectrum of events, activities and cultural institutions. Enjoy popular open air concert such as Klassik am Dom and extravagant street performances, which attract large crowds and popular international artists. Art galleries and centres are in abundance around the city as well as many museums housing international collections and depictions of the history and heritage of Linz. The architecture of the city also plays an important role in Linz’s cultural heritage with Main Square, Old Town and Mariendom Cathedral being some key attractions. Families will enjoy a trip to Postlingberg, located high up in the mountains and featuring a zoo, the Grottenbahn and spectacular views of the river and city below.

Day programme:

Your ship docks at Linz, a modern yet historic city that extends across the shimmering waters of the Danube. From there, you’ll head to Mozart’s birthplace of Salzburg, which is nestled in a glorious alpine setting that sparkles like a winter wonderland this time of year. Fans of “The Sound of Music” may recognize locations from the Oscar-winning film in the city’s Old Town, the site of the grand cathedral and absolutely enchanting Christmas Market.

Day 4: Krems

Krems an der Donau is a city in Northeast Austria located approximately forty three miles from Vienna. The city is situated on the banks of the river Danube and is one of the oldest of the Wachau Valley. Krems prides itself on historical preservation and has recently been awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status. The history of the city dates back more than a thousand years with evidence found in its streets, squares, monasteries, churches and fortifications. Krems is also a modern city which celebrates its contemporary art and modern literature as well as being a leader in biotech application research. Exploring Krems is easily done on foot with city walking tours being very popular. Discover Old Krems and the Art Mile and learn about the city’s rich history at Museum Krems. As with many wine cities, food and drink is in abundance with popular restaurants and wine bars housed in historical buildings which enhance and deepen the dining and wine tasting experience.

Day programme:

Enjoy a handful of delightful excursions that inspire the holiday spirit in this beautiful millennium-old town and surrounding valley—both of which have been designated UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

Day 5: 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.

Day programme:

Renowned for its art and architecture, its classical music, its decadent pastries, and its lengthy list of famous former residents, the refined city of Vienna is a cultural treasure trove. Experience the city with your choice of tours, as well as something extra special—VIP access to an extraordinary collection of art.

Day 6: Bratislava

Bratislava is the capital city of Slovakia and is located along the Danube a river on the borders of Austria and Hungary. The city is surrounded by the Little Carpathians Mountains and vineyards as well as its iconic reconstructed Bratislava Castle overlooking Old Town. The castle offers a picturesque view of the city, the neighbouring countries and is home to the Museum of History. Bratislava offers a blend of historic and modern attractions including the Old Town Hall, now home to the Bratislava City Museum, the UFO Bridge, Martin’s Cathedral, Michael’s Gate and Blue Church St Elizabeth’s. Bratislava is home to one of the oldest city parks in Central Europe and is popular with walkers, runners and cyclists as is the city forest park and foothills of the Carpathian Mountains. The city is popular for its locally brewed beers and has many micro-breweries and underground beer cellars. The local cuisine of Bratislava is an eclectic influence of European cultures including Slovak, Hungarian, Austrian and German and serves as a reminder of the history of this cosmopolitan city. However, visitors will find an array of offerings to suit all tastes with lunch being the main meal of the day and roast goose with lokse considered a signature dish of the area.

Day programme:

Once hidden from the world behind the “Iron Curtain,” Slovakia retains an air of mystery and intrigue, and its small capital city has an unexpectedly colorful history. You’ll learn more about Bratislava’s past from a local expert and also visit the local Christmas Market—a relatively new (and thoroughly delightful) tradition for Slovakians. How do you say “Merry Christmas” in Slovak? “Veselé Vianoce!” The heart and soul of Slovakia, Bratislava is full of surprises. The city straddles the mighty Danube and has played a leading role in the politics and culture of the region for many centuries. Unlike cities with venerable Christmas Markets, Bratislava just established its first holiday market in 1993. But the Slovakians have quickly embraced the seasonal traditions of their Austrian and Hungarian neighbors—and you’ll get to embrace them as well.

Day 7: Budapest

Budapest is the capital city of Hungary and is located over the River Danube. It is one of the largest cities in the European Union and much of its historical sites have been awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Originally formed in 1873 by the joining of Buda, Pest and Old Buda, the city suffered heavy destruction during World War II and was rebuilt into the country’s political, cultural and commercial hub it is now. Bridges and railways connect the city over the Danube, including the six small islands situated on the river themselves. Some of Budapest’s UNESCO World Heritage sites include Chain Bridge, Budapest Parliament, the striking Matthias church and the iconic Royal Palace visible from every location within Budapest City. The Castle Hills district architecture represents over a thousand years of the city’s history with examples of Roman, Turkish, Gothic, Renaissance and Art Nouveau styles. Budapest also has a rich Jewish heritage and is home to the largest synagogue in Europe. The city has an abundance of restaurants offering international cuisines, as well as traditional Hungarian dishes ,including goulash soup, a very popular lunchtime dish. Hungarians enjoy their coffee so a traditional cafe is never hard to find.

Day programme:

Located on opposite sides of the Danube, Buda and Pest each have their own distinctive character and allure. You’ll get a taste of this dynamic capital city with your choice of tours, and visit Budapest’s celebrated Christmas Market—one of the largest in Europe. Christmas has been celebrated in Budapest for a thousand years, since the time of St. Stephen, the king who founded the nation of Hungary and encouraged the spread of Christianity throughout his realm, but the city began as a Roman encampment almost a millennium before that. Over the centuries it was controlled by Germans, Austrians, Ottomans, and Communists, all of whom have left traces.

Day 8: Budapest

Budapest is the capital city of Hungary and is located over the River Danube. It is one of the largest cities in the European Union and much of its historical sites have been awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Originally formed in 1873 by the joining of Buda, Pest and Old Buda, the city suffered heavy destruction during World War II and was rebuilt into the country’s political, cultural and commercial hub it is now. Bridges and railways connect the city over the Danube, including the six small islands situated on the river themselves. Some of Budapest’s UNESCO World Heritage sites include Chain Bridge, Budapest Parliament, the striking Matthias church and the iconic Royal Palace visible from every location within Budapest City. The Castle Hills district architecture represents over a thousand years of the city’s history with examples of Roman, Turkish, Gothic, Renaissance and Art Nouveau styles. Budapest also has a rich Jewish heritage and is home to the largest synagogue in Europe. The city has an abundance of restaurants offering international cuisines, as well as traditional Hungarian dishes ,including goulash soup, a very popular lunchtime dish. Hungarians enjoy their coffee so a traditional cafe is never hard to find.

Day programme:

Disembark the ship in Budapest. If you have arranged a Uniworld departure transfer, you will be transferred to Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport for your flight home.

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Ship features

Grand Suite

Grand Suite

Luxurious riverview grand suite (412 sq ft – 38.25 sq m) with two French Balcony windows that can be opened to half-height

Grand suites include built-in closets, hair dryer, safe, individual thermostat and flat-screen TV with infotainment center

Marble bathroom with Asprey bath and body products, plush towels, towel warmer, comfortable bathrobes and slippers, a rain shower and tub, backlit magnifying mirror, heated mirror and a secluded toilet area

Butler service, such as packing and unpacking assistance, shoe shining, complimentary laundry service, and in-room breakfast delivery

In-room treats: fresh fruits and treats from your pastry chef delivered daily, a complimentary menu of specialty snacks and cocktails, Nespresso coffees and fine teas, a fully stocked mini bar, and a bottle of wine upon arrival

Grand Suite
Suite

Suite

Luxurious riverview suite (286 sq ft – 26.5 sq m) with two French Balcony windows that can be opened to half-height

Built-in closets, hair dryer, safe, individual thermostat and flat-screen TV with infotainment center

Marble bathroom with Asprey bath and body products, plush towels, towel warmers, backlit magnifying mirror, heated mirrors, comfortable bathrobes and slippers

Butler service, such as packing and unpacking assistance, shoe shining, complimentary laundry service, and in-room breakfast delivery

In-room treats: fresh fruits and treats from your pastry chef delivered daily, a complimentary menu of specialty snacks and cocktails, Nespresso coffees and fine teas, a fully stocked mini bar, and a bottle of wine upon arrival

Grand Suite
Suite
Deluxe French Balcony

Deluxe French Balcony

Luxurious riverview stateroom (194 sq ft – 18 sq m) with a French balcony

Built-in closet, hair dryer, safe, individual thermostat, flat-screen TV with infotainment center

Marble bathroom with Asprey bath and body products, plush towels, towel warmer, heated mirror, backlit magnifying mirror, comfortable bathrobes and slippers

Grand Suite
Suite
Deluxe French Balcony
French Balcony A

French Balcony A

Luxurious riverview stateroom (194 – 227 sq ft / 18 – 21 sq m) with a French balcony

Built-in closet, hair dryer, safe, individual thermostat, flat-screen TV with infotainment center

Marble bathroom with Asprey bath and body products, plush towels, towel warmer, heated mirror, backlit magnifying mirror, comfortable bathrobes and slippers

Grand Suite
Suite
Deluxe French Balcony
French Balcony A
French Balcony B

French Balcony B

Luxurious riverview stateroom (194 – 227 sq ft / 18 – 21 sq m) with a French balcony

Built-in closet, hair dryer, safe, individual thermostat, flat-screen TV with infotainment center

Marble bathroom with Asprey bath and body products, plush towels, towel warmer, heated mirror, backlit magnifying mirror, comfortable bathrobes and slippers

Grand Suite
Suite
Deluxe French Balcony
French Balcony A
French Balcony B
Classic

Classic

Luxurious riverview stateroom (175 sq ft – 16.25 sq m)

Built-in closet, hair dryer, safe, individual thermostat, flat-screen TV with infotainment center

Marble bathroom with Asprey bath and body products, plush towels, towel warmer, heated mirror, backlit magnifying mirror, comfortable bathrobes and slippers

Gustav's Restaurant

Gustav's Restaurant

Gustav’s Restaurant can be located on the Athene Deck.

Gustav's Restaurant
Private Dining

Private Dining

The Private Dining area can be loacted on the Danae Deck.

Excursions

Excursions

Do As The Locals Do

Whether we’re seeking local favorite treats or hopping on public trams to zip around town, these tours capture what it’s like to live in the destinations you visit.

Private Experiences

From visiting a museum without the crowds to an after-hours tour of a famous landmark, these included, once-in-a-lifetime experiences are arranged privately for Uniworld guests.

Village Day

On a Village Day, you’ll select from a few different ways to explore village life, often by diving into a cultural pastime or getting to know someone in town.

Excursions
Masterpiece Collection

Masterpiece Collection

One of the many qualities that set a Uniworld Boutique River Cruise apart is the degree and quality of our all-inclusive amenities. We offer more inclusions—and more luxurious inclusions—than any other river cruise line. Our guests will always find everything they need and more to enjoy a wonderful holiday with Uniworld.

For the guests looking to take their journey one step further, we’ve curated a Masterpiece Collection of optional excursions that go above and beyond our included experiences, available for an additional charge.

Excursions
Masterpiece Collection
"Let's Go" Excursions

"Let's Go" Excursions

Our “Let’s Go” onshore program features guided walking, hiking, cycling, kayaking, golfing tours and more. Or, take one of our Brompton G-Line Bicycles or Nordic Walking Sticks and head out on your own adventure. Wherever your journey takes you, there will be many opportunities to get out and go.

Excursions
Masterpiece Collection
"Let's Go" Excursions
Make Travel Matter®

Make Travel Matter®

These sustainably minded excursions offer our guests opportunities to directly impact the communities we explore in a positive way.

MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences

Travelling with Uniworld means you’re travelling with purpose—supporting sustainable tourism as well as local communities and wildlife. Our MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences take that even further, offering our guests opportunities to directly impact the communities we explore in a positive way.

They are selected with great care using a proprietary assessment tool endorsed by industry experts, which ensures that our MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experiences directly advance United Nations Global Goals.

Excursions
Masterpiece Collection
"Let's Go" Excursions
Make Travel Matter®
Nights Out

Nights Out

From private after-hours tours of popular attractions to local nightlife experiences, this new line of included excursions will go the extra mile to bring you uniquely memorable moments on your all-inclusive, luxury river cruise.

Aft-Lounge

Aft-Lounge

The Aft-Lounge can be located on the Adele Deck.

Aft-Lounge
Reception

Reception

The Reception is located on the Athene Deck.

Aft-Lounge
Reception
Belvedere Lounge

Belvedere Lounge

The Belvedere Lounge can be located on the Adele Deck.

Fitness Center

Fitness Center

The Fitness Center can be located on the Adele Deck.

Fitness Center
Serenity River Spa

Serenity River Spa

The Serenity River Spa can be located on the Adele Deck.

Generations Collection

Generations Collection

Share the joys of river cruising with the entire family.

Find out more here.

Special Dietary Requirements

Special Dietary Requirements

Kindly inform us in advance if you have specific dietary requests (e.g., low-fat, low-calorie, gluten-free, sugar-free, vegetarian, etc.). This information can be provided to us when completing your Passenger Information Form. We have a “Travelling Lite” menu for guests seeking more health-conscious options, as well as light lunches, vegetarian options, and generous buffets that offer something for everyone. We will do our very best to accommodate your needs given the resources available to us.

Special Dietary Requirements
Wi-Fi & Internet Access

Wi-Fi & Internet Access

Select ships offer complimentary Wi-Fi access. Please email us at info@uniworld.com to find out if Wi-Fi is available onboard. Service may be briefly interrupted in remote areas, while sailing, or when moving through locks, and the speed will likely be slower than what you are used to back home.

Special Dietary Requirements
Wi-Fi & Internet Access
Age Restrictions

Age Restrictions

In our experience, most young children—especially those under 4—are simply not yet old enough to enjoy river cruising. We make no special arrangements for little ones and offer few kid-friendly activities onboard or onshore. Please note: Our Generations program departures include programs and services designed for families traveling with children. Adults accompanying children are responsible for their safety and behavior onboard and onshore.

Guests must be 5 years of age or older. Guests who are less than 18 years of age must be accompanied by a parent or guardian and booked in a cabin with someone who is 21 years of age or older.

Special Dietary Requirements
Wi-Fi & Internet Access
Age Restrictions
Smoking Policy

Smoking Policy

For the comfort of all our guests, smoking is only permitted on the sun decks of our ships. Smoking is not permitted on motorcoaches. This policy applies to all forms of smoking materials including vapor e-cigarettes.

We also ask guests to refrain from smoking on shore excursions/tours, especially since many historical sites and other tourist attractions are now smoke-free as well.

Special Dietary Requirements
Wi-Fi & Internet Access
Age Restrictions
Smoking Policy
Laundry

Laundry

Most ships have either a self-serve laundrette (with ironing board) or laundry service for an additional fee. Please contact info@uniworld.com to find out what services your ship offers. No dry cleaning services are available on any ship.

Sun Deck

Sun Deck

  • Sun Deck
  • Bridge
Sun Deck
Adele Deck

Adele Deck

  • Fitness Center
  • Serenity River Spa
  • Brocade Bar
  • Elevator
  • Belvedere Lounge
  • Grand Suite
  • Suite
  • Deluxe French Balcony
Sun Deck
Adele Deck
Athene Deck

Athene Deck

  • Lobby
  • Reception
  • Elevator
  • Gustav’s Restaurant
  • French Balcony A
  • French Balcony B 
Sun Deck
Adele Deck
Athene Deck
Danae Deck

Danae Deck

  • Guest Laundry
  • The Gold Room
  • Classic Stateroom
  • Elevator

UNIWORLD Boutique River Cruises

Uniworld—the world’s best and most awarded luxury river cruise line—offers itineraries in spectacular destinations throughout Europe, Egypt, Asia and Peru.
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