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Gems of Southeast Europe Christmas Markets

with AmaWaterways
Dec. 08, 2025 - Dec. 15, 2025
7 days8 ports

  • brand-new ship
  • Cherry Blossoms
  • Cruise
  • Dining
  • Japan
  • Luxury Cruise
  • Prestige
  • Reservations Now Open
  • Seabourn
  • Seabourn dining
  • SERENITY SUITE
  • Seven Seas Prestige
  • SEVEN SEAS SUI
  • Spring
  • The Prestige Loft S
  • The SkyView Luna

Itinerary

Day 1: Budapest
Day 2: Mohács
Day 3: Vukovar
Day 4: Belgrade
Day 5: Iron Gates
Day 6: Vidin
Day 7: Ruse
Day 8: Giurgiu
Day 1: 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:

BUDAPEST, HUNGARY – EMBARKATION. Board the ship for your Gems of Southeast Europe Christmas cruise. (D)

Day 2: Mohács

Day programme:

MOHÁCS. Enjoy a scenic morning cruise to Mohács. In the afternoon, you can visit Pécs, founded more than 2,000 years ago by the Romans. Visit the UNESCO-designated Christian Necropolis; St. Peter’s Basilica, the city’s main Catholic cathedral along with its catacombs; and Széchenyi Square, the heart of Old Town Pécs. You will also see the Mosque of Pasha Qasim the Victorious, one of the symbols of the city. You will also have the opportunity to visit the delightful Pécs Christmas Market in front of Town Hall. Alternatively, you can travel to the Szekszárd wine region, one of the oldest red-wine-growing areas in Hungary, established more than 2,000 years ago. You may also take an exhilarating guided bike tour around Mohács. (B,L,D)

Day 3: Vukovar

Day programme:

VUKOVAR, CROATIA. Explore this historic Croatian city of Vukovar on a city tour, where you may see sites such as the Ovčara Memorial and Eltz Manor House. Alternatively, you may see Osijek on a guided tour. For a more active excursion, enjoy a guided bike tour of Vukovar. In the afternoon, wine connoisseurs will want to sample Croatia’s famous Grasevina, Traminac and Frankovka wines during a special tasting excursion. You can also choose to explore the Vucedol Museum, home to fascinating exhibits on prehistoric culture and one of the most important archaeological sites in Europe. (B,L,D)

Day 4: Belgrade

Day programme:

BELGRADE, SERBIA. Explore Serbia’s capital, Belgrade, on a city tour, which includes the Nikola Tesla Museum, encompassing the world-renowned inventor’s life and inventions, as well as the Kalemegdan Fortress and the Serbian Orthodox Cathedral of St. Sava, the largest such church in the world. You’ll have time to explore Belgrade’s Winter Fest in the main square and its holiday treats, colorful Christmas Market stalls, concerts and more. Alternatively, you can opt for more active excursions with either a hike to Belgrade Fortress or a guided bike tour through Belgrade. Later in the day, enjoy a taste of the region by sampling Serbian brandy, Šlivovitz, paired with delicious local delights, at the Quburich Distillery. Or discover Novi Sad, the “Serbian Athens,” on a full-day walking tour to Dunavski Park, through Stari Grad, the Old Town center, and the Petrovaradin Fortress, originally built to defend against the Ottoman Turks, but now home to summertime festivals and beautiful views of the Danube below. (B,L,D)

Day 5: Iron Gates

Day programme:

SCENIC CRUISING THROUGH THE IRON GATES. Visit Golubac Fortress – a medieval fortified town on the south side of the Danube River – before cruising through the Iron Gates. The Iron Gates is one of Europe’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders. The Danube narrows as it winds through a series of magnificent gorges between the Carpathian and Balkan mountains, forming a natural border between Serbia and Romania. The ancient King Decebalus, the last king of Dacia, is proudly carved into the mountainside and always captivates travelers. (B,L,D)

Day 6: Vidin

Day programme:

VIDIN, BULGARIA. Explore Vidin, one of Bulgaria’s oldest cities, and surrounding areas with a choice of excursions. Discover Baba Vida Fortress, the largest preserved medieval castle in Bulgaria, then explore Vidin on a guided walking tour, where you will also have the opportunity to visit the city’s Christmas Market. For a taste of local cuisine, visit a local home for a demonstration of traditional Bulgarian yogurt and Banitsa, a pastry you will also get to make. Alternatively, you can bike through Vidin or enjoy a wine tasting at a local boutique winery. (B,L,D)

Day 7: Ruse

Day programme:

ROUSSE – GIURGIU, ROMANIA. Visit Bulgaria’s ancient capital, Veliko Tarnovo, with its medieval fortress and multiple orthodox temples. Enjoy the magic of the holidays when learning about the Bulgarian traditions and folklore during Christmastime. You can opt instead to go to Rousse, known for its 19th- and 20th-century Neo-Baroque and Neo-Rococo architecture, and then afterwards visit the UNESCO-designated Rock-Hewn Churches of Ivanovo with frescos revealing exceptional artistry of 14th-century paintings. Or travel through the Romanian countryside to the capital of Bucharest, known as the “Little Paris of the East.” Enjoy a panoramic tour of the historic city center and its elegant architecture. You’ll have the opportunity to enjoy the Bucharest Christmas market, shining bright in festive holiday lights, in front of the Palace of the Parliament. (B,L,D)

Day 8: Giurgiu

Day programme:

GIURIU – DISEMBARKATION. Bid farewell to Giurgiu as you prepare for your flight home. (B)

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Ship features

Suite

Suite

Stateroom Features

  • In-room temperature control

  • Deluxe hotel-style bedding
  • Spacious bathrooms with multi-jet showerheads
  • Large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe and direct-dial telephone
  • Flat-screen TV
  • Entertainment on Demand system providing complimentary TV, movies and music library
  • Complimentary internet and Wi-Fi
  • Complimentary bottled water replenished daily
  • Desk and chair

Suite
CAT. AA Stateroom

CAT. AA Stateroom

Stateroom Features

  • In-room temperature control
  • Deluxe hotel-style bedding with Egyptian linen, down pillows and duvet
  • Spacious bathrooms with multi-jet showerheads
  • Large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe and direct-dial telephone
  • Flat-screen TV
  • Entertainment on Demand system providing complimentary TV, movies and music library
  • Complimentary internet and Wi-Fi
  • Complimentary bottled water replenished daily
  • Desk and chair
Suite
CAT. AA Stateroom
CAT. AB Stateroom

CAT. AB Stateroom

Stateroom Features

  • In-room temperature control
  • Deluxe hotel-style bedding with Egyptian linen, down pillows and duvet
  • Spacious bathrooms with multi-jet showerheads
  • Large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe and direct-dial telephone
  • Flat-screen TV
  • Entertainment on Demand system providing complimentary TV, movies and music library
  • Complimentary internet and Wi-Fi
  • Complimentary bottled water replenished daily
  • Desk and chair

Suite
CAT. AA Stateroom
CAT. AB Stateroom
CAT. BA Stateroom

CAT. BA Stateroom

Stateroom Features

  • In-room temperature control
  • Deluxe hotel-style bedding with Egyptian linen, down pillows and duvet
  • Spacious bathrooms with multi-jet showerheads
  • Large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe and direct-dial telephone
  • Flat-screen TV
  • Entertainment on Demand system providing complimentary TV, movies and music library
  • Complimentary internet and Wi-Fi
  • Complimentary bottled water replenished daily
  • Desk and chair
Suite
CAT. AA Stateroom
CAT. AB Stateroom
CAT. BA Stateroom
CAT. BB Stateroom

CAT. BB Stateroom

Stateroom Features

  • In-room temperature control
  • Deluxe hotel-style bedding with Egyptian linen, down pillows and duvet
  • Spacious bathrooms with multi-jet showerheads
  • Large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe and direct-dial telephone
  • Flat-screen TV
  • Entertainment on Demand system providing complimentary TV, movies and music library
  • Complimentary internet and Wi-Fi
  • Complimentary bottled water replenished daily
  • Desk and chair
Suite
CAT. AA Stateroom
CAT. AB Stateroom
CAT. BA Stateroom
CAT. BB Stateroom
CAT. C Stateroom

CAT. C Stateroom

Stateroom Features

  • In-room temperature control
  • Deluxe hotel-style bedding with Egyptian linen, down pillows and duvet
  • Spacious bathrooms with multi-jet showerheads
  • Large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe and direct-dial telephone
  • Flat-screen TV
  • Entertainment on Demand system providing complimentary TV, movies and music library
  • Complimentary internet and Wi-Fi
  • Complimentary bottled water replenished daily
  • Desk and chair
Suite
CAT. AA Stateroom
CAT. AB Stateroom
CAT. BA Stateroom
CAT. BB Stateroom
CAT. C Stateroom
CAT. D Stateroom

CAT. D Stateroom

Stateroom Features

  • In-room temperature control
  • Deluxe hotel-style bedding with Egyptian linen, down pillows and duvet
  • Spacious bathrooms with multi-jet showerheads
  • Large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe and direct-dial telephone
  • Flat-screen TV
  • Entertainment on Demand system providing complimentary TV, movies and music library
  • Complimentary internet and Wi-Fi
  • Complimentary bottled water replenished daily
  • Desk and chair
Suite
CAT. AA Stateroom
CAT. AB Stateroom
CAT. BA Stateroom
CAT. BB Stateroom
CAT. C Stateroom
CAT. D Stateroom
CAT. E Stateroom

CAT. E Stateroom

Stateroom Features

  • In-room temperature control
  • Deluxe hotel-style bedding with Egyptian linen, down pillows and duvet
  • Spacious bathrooms with multi-jet showerheads
  • Large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe and direct-dial telephone
  • Flat-screen TV
  • Entertainment on Demand system providing complimentary TV, movies and music library
  • Complimentary internet and Wi-Fi
  • Complimentary bottled water replenished daily
  • Desk and chair
Main Restaurant

Main Restaurant

Farm-to-Table Gastronomy

For years we have sourced all our fresh produce, herbs and freshwater fish from local farmers, many of whose families have been cultivating the soil along the banks of the Danube for generations. Our shared commitment to sustainability, family and personal connection makes us proud to support these farms – guaranteeing fresh and flavorful ingredients while reducing the distance each item travels to our ships. Incorporating the highest quality seasonal ingredients, such as Marchfeld asparagus in the spring and Wachau Valley apricots in summer, our expert chefs bring the taste of the country from the fields, orchards, farms and docks to your plate at every meal.

Main Restaurant
The Chef's Table

The Chef's Table

Join a few of your fellow travelers at The Chef’s Table, an intimate venue where the kitchen, usually hidden, becomes part of the entertainment. Watch as the chef meticulously chops, sears and plates a mouthwatering tasting menu in front of your eyes – a highlight of your culinary journey that is served with a selection of fine wines, all courtesy of AmaWaterways.

Main Restaurant
The Chef's Table
Wellness Recipes

Wellness Recipes

Our skilled chefs ensure that our menus always have healthy choices prepared with the freshest locally-sourced ingredients. We are also able to accommodate dietary needs such as low-sodium, vegetarian and gluten-free. Below are some of our favorite recipes for health-conscious guests.

  • Beetroot Salad – This vegetarian recipe brings vivid colors and flavors to life.
  • Avocado Chocolate Mousse – An indulgent yet low-carb and sugar-free treat
  • Gluten-Free Almond Cake Recipe – A delicious gluten-free way to indulge worry-free.
  • Gluten-Free Pizza Recipe – An onboard gluten-free favorite you can easily make at home.
Included Biking Excursions

Included Biking Excursions

We are proud to have been the first river cruise line to carry an entire fleet of complimentary state-of-the-art bicycles on board, so you can pedal alongside enchanting riverside pathways and in city centers on a variety of included excursions throughout Europe. Whether you feel like joining one of our exclusive guided bike tours, or you want to reserve a bike to discover a destination on your own, there are many ways for you to explore on two wheels during your river cruise. From lighter five-mile bike tours to rides that stretch over 20 miles, we offer excursions for guests at any level.

Bike Tour Guides

Your guide will be sure to stop and point out highlights along the way, providing interesting facts and history, as well as much-needed water breaks! Often, there is some built-in free time for you to explore off your bike. And best of all, to ensure no guests are left behind, there is typically a guide both at the front and back of the tour group, so whatever pace you pedal, you will have peace of mind you will be taken care of and find your way back to the ship. 

Child-sized Bikes

There are a limited number of child-size bicycles available on board as well. This enables you to enjoy family-friendly active excursions in many destinations along the rivers.

Included Biking Excursions
Included Hiking Excursions

Included Hiking Excursions

The beauty of Europe does not simply lie in its architecture and landmarks – there are also breathtaking sights when you venture out into nature. That’s why we have designed special included hikes that will take you a bit off the beaten path, showing you incredible destinations from a unique perspective and giving you a chance to revel in the fresh air. With hikes ranging anywhere from two to seven miles and varying from extended city walks to hilltop castle treks, you are sure to find a wonderful hike that suits your style.

Included Biking Excursions
Included Hiking Excursions
Special Interest Tours

Special Interest Tours

We offer a variety of included tours specially curated with your individual passions in mind. Enjoy exploring the world through your tastebuds? Indulge in authentic Belgian waffles and chocolate in Antwerp or learn the art of French breadmaking in Libourne. Are you interested in engineering? Venture through the immense aerospace and locomotive collections at Speyer’s Technik Museum. Do you love music? Browse the antique music boxes and organs at Siegfried’s Mechanical Instrument Cabinet while cruising the Rhine.

Main Lounge & Bar

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.

Main Lounge & Bar
Entertainment

Entertainment

Whether it’s traditional Bavarian music, a local quartet or modern piano favorites, there is an eclectic schedule of entertainment on board.

Fitness Room

Fitness Room

Are you looking for a way to stay fit on vacation? Hit the treadmill or lift some weights while cruising from one destination to the next.

Fitness Room
Fitness Classes

Fitness Classes

A variety of daily activities are available for guests, with group classes such as pilates, resistance band stretching, cardio, active wellness walks and dance, based on each individual Wellness Host’s expertise. Guests of all ages and activity levels are encouraged to participate and simple modifications are offered for guests with mobility limitations.

Fitness Room
Fitness Classes
Massage Services

Massage Services

After a marvellous day of immersive shore excursions, return to the ship and treat yourself to a bit of pampering with a soothing massage.

**Massage services available for a nominal fee.

Fitness Room
Fitness Classes
Massage Services
Beauty & Hair 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.

Fitness Room
Fitness Classes
Massage Services
Beauty & Hair Salon
Sun Deck Pool

Sun Deck Pool

Soak up some rays or take a dip in our refreshing pool with a swim-up bar as we pass by centuries-old castles, charming villages and other breathtaking scenery.

Age Restrictions

Age Restrictions

All guests under the age of 18 are to be in a stateroom with an adult and must remain supervised at all times; their safety is the responsibility of the accompanying adult(s). In the case where a triple or quad occupancy stateroom is not available or not selected, children under the age of 10 at the time of embarkation may share a stateroom with two adults only in circumstances where the child is able to share the bed with the adults – no additional bed will be provided. Please be aware that balcony staterooms of any kind may be unsafe for minors if left unsupervised. There is a minimum age limit of 4 years old, unless otherwise agreed upon by AmaWaterways.

AmaWaterways does not provide child-specific programs or child-minding facilities. Please reach out to us if you have any further questions regarding our child policy.

Age Restrictions
Smoking Policy

Smoking Policy

Smoking is not permitted anywhere inside any of the ships. Smoking is only permitted on the Sun Deck. For the safety and comfort of all passengers on board, your cooperation in observing the no-smoking policy is greatly appreciated.

Age Restrictions
Smoking Policy
Dietary Requirements

Dietary Requirements

Please advise your Travel Agent or call us directly to advise if you have any dietary restrictions or allergies prior to embarkation. In most cases, we will do our best to accommodate special dietary requests and food allergies, but with one exception: Kosher. This diet has specific rules regarding food and its preparation and the shipboard environment does have limitations that prevent us from being able to adequately cater to this dietary need. Please note, though we can provide options to accommodate food allergies and sensitivities, we cannot guarantee there will not be any cross-contamination.

Age Restrictions
Smoking Policy
Dietary Requirements
Dress Code

Dress Code

Comfortable, layered clothing adaptable to changing weather conditions is always advisable for daytime excursions. For the evening, “Casually elegant” attire is recommended and you may want to pack something a little dressier for the Captain’s night/Farewell Dinner – similar to how one would dress to dine at a 5-star restaurant. Comfortable shoes are recommended for excursions and workout clothing if you plan to take part in any wellness activities, active tours or use the onboard gym. Depending on the time of year, clothing that can be layered is highly recommended.

Age Restrictions
Smoking Policy
Dietary Requirements
Dress Code
Medical Facilities

Medical Facilities

There are no medical facilities on board. However medical services can easily be called from shore if required.

Age Restrictions
Smoking Policy
Dietary Requirements
Dress Code
Medical Facilities
Internet

Internet

High-speed Internet service is available free of charge as part of the in-stateroom “Entertainment-On-Demand.” Additionally, AmaWaterways offers complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the ship.

Age Restrictions
Smoking Policy
Dietary Requirements
Dress Code
Medical Facilities
Internet
Limited Mobility and Excursions

Limited Mobility and Excursions

On AmaWaterways’ European ships, there are a limited number of canes with small sport seats as well as Nordic walking sticks to assist our guests who need extra support during excursions. We also offer “gentle walkers” tours which typically move at a comfortable pace and make more frequent stops. Land packages and shore excursions require a moderate-to-challenging amount of walking and sites may have steps and/or uneven terrain. The embarkation/disembarkation points between ship and shore may not be able to accommodate guests with mobility issues.

Facilities and services for guests with physical limitations may sometimes be limited or non-existent. Our ships are not equipped with facilities for guests with limited mobility. Motorcoaches, boats and minibuses used for transfers and shore excursions also are not accessible to guests with limited mobility requiring the use of mobility aids like wheelchairs, scooters or any other mechanical devices. Please inquire with your travel advisor or our Reservations Team to ensure which itineraries and destinations are the best suited for your needs. 

Sun Deck

Sun Deck

  • Lower Sun Deck
  • Navigation Bridge
  • Bicycles
  • Heated Pool
  • Sun Deck
  • Walking Track
  • Putting Green
  • Wheelhouse
Sun Deck
Violin Deck

Violin Deck

  • Observation Lounge
  • Bow Seating Area
  • Main Lounge
  • Gift Shop
  • Reception
  • Fitness Room
  • Massage & Hair Salon
  • The Chef’s Table
  • Elevator
  • Suites
  • CAT. AA French & Outside Balcony Staterooms
  • CAT. BA French & Outside Balcony Staterooms
  • CAT. C French Balcony Staterooms
Sun Deck
Violin Deck
Cello Deck

Cello Deck

  • Main Restaurant
  • Elevator
  • CAT. AB French & Outside Balcony Staterooms
  • CAT. BB French & Outside Balcony Staterooms
  • CAT. C French Balcony Staterooms
Sun Deck
Violin Deck
Cello Deck
Piano Deck

Piano Deck

  • CAT. D Fixed Window Staterooms
  • CAT. E Fixed Window Staterooms
  • Crew Cabins

AMAWaterways

With over two decades of experience on the world’s rivers, our family-owned and operated company has remained focused on what we do best: providing our guests with innovative and unforgettable travel experiences. As recipient of Cruise Critic's coveted "Best River Cruise Line" award, AmaWaterways offers you exciting journeys that are unrivaled on the rivers. Each day brings a genuine smile that warms the heart, every river a new culture that inspires, and each course a moment to savor and share.
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