Experience Europe’s old-world charms during the most magical time of the year.
This cruise takes you to some of the most famous and delightful holiday markets in Central Europe. At each market, you’ll find wooden stalls displaying traditional crafts that range from quirky little characters made of fruit and dressed in Bavarian costume to beautifully carved and painted Nativity figures. You’ll also find exquisite ornaments and fine contemporary crafts, along with fairytale villages decked in holiday finery.
Sparkling lights illuminate ancient cathedral squares, and the sound of children’s laughter mingles with carols. Enjoy Uniworld’s exclusive “Taste of Christmas” program in Vienna, where you’ll see astonishing confectionery decorations in Café Demel’s windows. Celebrate the season in a new way as you meander through old lands, and remember, as the Christkind says, “While this market’s splendor is fleeting, the joy it brings is eternal.”
Please note that most Christmas Markets in Europe end their season on the 23rd of December and will not be available after that date.
Dining
Excursions
Experiences
Day 1 - Nuremberg (Embark)
Arrive at Nuremberg Airport. If your cruise package includes a group arrival transfer, or if you have purchased a private arrival transfer, you will be greeted by a Uniworld representative and transferred to the ship.
Note: For Arrival, Departure, and Transfer details, please visit Uniworld.com/transfers. For Port Location details, please visit Uniworld.com/ports.
Day 2 - Nuremberg, Roth
For a truly over-the-top holiday extravaganza, look no further than Nuremberg, which boasts the largest and grandest Christmas Market in all of Germany—and that’s really saying something. The “Gingerbread Capital of the World” pulls out all the stops during the holidays, as you’ll see for yourself on a panoramic tour guaranteed to put you in a festive mood. Two hundred stalls filled with holiday wares—ornaments, nutcrackers, seasonal treats, and hand-carved toys—await you, and the irresistible aromas of roasting nuts, cinnamon, and grilled sausages waft through the air.
A special Captain’s Welcome Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you this evening.
Day 3 - Regensburg
The Old Town of Regensburg sparkles with holiday lights and decorations this time of year, adding to its already considerable charms. Check out the brightest cultural sights, then head to what may very well be the most romantic Christmas Market in all of Germany, nestled within the courtyard of a beautiful baroque castle—as you take in the delights of the markets.
Day 4 - Deggendorf (Theresienthal), Passau
Take some time today to explore the beautifully expansive and heavily wooded Bavarian Forest. As the largest continuous forested region in Europe, there’s plenty to uncover—like unspoiled landscapes, abundant wildlife, and idyllic atmosphere.
Day 5 - Cruising the Danube River, Linz
There’s more to Linz than its famous Linzer torte, although that alone makes it well worth a visit. The city has a thriving contemporary art scene, and its two Christmas Markets are over-the-top enchanting. In keeping with the Austrian traditions of good food and good music, Linz gave rise to both the Linzer torte and the Linz Symphony. The symphony is one of Mozart’s most celebrated works. The story goes that the composer was so inspired by the beauty of the city that he finished his Symphony No. 36 in less than a week here in 1783.
Day 6 - Cruising the Wachau Valley, Dürnstein, Vienna
After a scenic cruise through the beautiful Wachau Valley, we’ll reach the tiny village of Dürnstein. Walk along its cobbled streets, browse the shops selling apricot schnapps, and perhaps take a quick jaunt up to the ruins of a castle (with an intriguing tale all its own). Later, you can taste a local spin on mulled wine and attend an organ concert at an Augustine church.
Day 7 - Vienna
Vienna is a city steeped in history, music and elegant architecture. Mozart, Austria’s most famous citizen, was at the height of his creative powers when he lived here, writing perhaps his best-known works, including The Marriage of Figaro, Don Giovanni, and Eine Kleine Nachtmusik. He found Vienna a very inspiring place, and so will you. You’ll have a full day to savor the Christmas spirit in Vienna with over 140 wooden stalls enticing you with every sort of delicacy. Be sure to try the rum balls and nutmeg-spiced macarons, which are local favorites, and amble through the adjacent park to admire the elaborately decorated trees.
A special Captain’s Farewell Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you this evening.
Day 8 - Vienna (Disembark)
Disembark the ship. If your cruise package includes a group departure transfer, or if you have purchased a private departure transfer, you will be transferred to Vienna International Airport for your flight home.
Multiple departure dates are available from November 2026 to December 2027
Nuremberg to Vienna: The Below price is for 24 Nov 2027 departure
Call 1300 414 198 to speak to our experienced Travel Advisors for details.
Why not extend your stay and see more? As a full-service travel agency, Travel at 60's friendly consultants can happily help you find a good deal on airfares, accommodation, and more.
Please note: prices are subject to availability at the time of booking and may change or be withdrawn at any time without notice.
The S.S. Beatrice boasts yacht-style light wood with blue and white finishes throughout, a renovated lobby featuring elegant mirrors, marble floors, a white Murano chandelier with blue shades, and a grand staircase made of nickel and black iron—such eye-catching entrances are a signature design element of Uniworld’s Super ShipTM fleet. The ship’s redesigned lounge features sofas and chairs with hand-made upholstery, a parquet floor and upholstered ceiling panels, solar shades, and new USB ports allowing guests to charge anywhere they are sitting. The artwork throughout the ship includes pieces from Pablo Picasso, Alexander Calder, and Pino Signoretto.
S.S. Beatrice offers four dining options all inspired by famous Austrian composers, including Mozart’s, the ship’s main restaurant; Wolfgang’s bar and lounge, and newly added Schubert’s and Max’s. For guests seeking an immersive culinary experience, Max’s restaurant offers intimate cooking classes where guests can create local European cuisines alongside the chef. Schubert’s, an 18-seat café located at the bow of the ship, offers guests shared plates from lunch through dinnertime. The cozy Austrian-styled eatery features menus reflecting the cuisine of the ship’s destinations.
The tour includes 7 nights of accommodation, transportation between destinations from Nuremberg to Vienna, guided sightseeing as outlined in the itinerary, visits to famous European Christmas markets, and select meals as specified. An experienced tour guide accompanies the group to provide cultural insight and logistical support throughout the journey.
International airfare, travel insurance, most meals not listed in the itinerary, optional excursions, personal expenses (such as souvenirs or snacks), and gratuities are not included unless otherwise stated.
This is a guided group tour. A professional guide leads the group, manages transportation, and provides commentary, while still allowing free time to explore markets and cities independently.
The tour is conducted in English.
This tour operates during the European holiday market season, typically late November through December. Specific departure dates vary by year.
You can book by completing the registration form and submitting the required deposit through the tour provider or organizing institution.
Yes, a deposit is required at the time of booking to secure your place on the tour. The remaining balance is due by the final payment deadline.
Cancellation policies vary depending on how close the cancellation is to the departure date. Deposits may be non-refundable, and additional fees may apply closer to departure. Full details will be provided at the time of booking.
Accommodation is typically in comfortable, well-located 3- or 4-star hotels in city centers or nearby areas, with easy access to holiday markets and public transport.
Transportation between cities is provided by private coach and/or train, depending on distance and itinerary requirements.
Single occupancy may be available for an additional fee, subject to availability. Room upgrades are not guaranteed but can be requested at booking.
The tour begins in Nuremberg and ends in Vienna, with visits to iconic holiday markets in cities such as Nuremberg, Regensburg, Passau, Salzburg, and Vienna (exact stops may vary slightly by departure).
Each day includes guided activities as well as free time to explore markets, shop, sample local food, or relax on your own.
Entrance fees are included only for attractions specifically listed in the itinerary. Optional attractions are paid separately.
Daily breakfast is typically included. Some group dinners or special meals may be included as noted in the itinerary.
Yes, common dietary needs such as vegetarian or food allergies can usually be accommodated with advance notice, though options may be limited at markets.
Winter temperatures in Central Europe are cold, typically ranging from −5°C to 8°C (23°F to 46°F). Snow is possible.
Warm layers, a winter coat, waterproof shoes, gloves, a hat, and a scarf are essential. Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended.
Visa requirements depend on your nationality. Many travelers can enter the Schengen Area without a visa for short stays. It is your responsibility to check requirements before departure.
The euro (€) is used in Germany and Austria. Credit cards are widely accepted, but cash is useful at holiday markets.
Travel insurance is strongly recommended and may be required. It should cover medical care, trip cancellation, and lost belongings.
A moderate level of fitness is recommended, as the tour involves walking through city centers and markets, often on cobblestone streets.
Due to historic areas, uneven surfaces, and limited hotel access, full wheelchair accessibility cannot be guaranteed. Please inquire before booking.