Festive Christmas Markets with Magnificent Europe

Departures & Pricing

Cabin grades, balcony upgrades and pre-cruise hotel options are quoted on enquiry — call 1300 414 198.

Itinerary

1. 1

   Arrive Berlin

   Your journey begins with a transfer to your hotel, where you will get to know everyone at a welcome reception later this evening.

2. 2

   Berlin

   Today, explore Berlin on a guided sightseeing tour that reveals the city’s layered history and contemporary energy. Begin at the iconic Brandenburg Gate, then stroll along Unter den Linden, the grand, tree-lined boulevard in the heart of the Mitte district. Continue to the lively expanse of Alexanderplatz before visiting preserved sections of the Berlin Wall, a powerful reminder of the city’s divided past. Gain deeper insight into Berlin’s Cold War legacy at Checkpoint Charlie, once the most famous border crossing between East and West Germany, and at the adjacent Checkpoint Charlie Museum.

   This afternoon, immerse yourself in the festive atmosphere of one of Berlin’s renowned Christmas markets, where the aromas of spiced glühwein and freshly baked gingerbread fill the air. This evening, gather for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant, to celebrate the beginning of your journey together.

3. 3

   Berlin, Potsdam

   Journey to Potsdam, once the residence of Prussian kings. Here, you’ll enjoy a discovery of the former summer palace of Frederick the Great, Sanssouci. Return to Berlin and choose how you’d like to explore. The evening is yours at leisure.

   Freedom of Choice – Spree River Boat Ride

   Set off on a charming boat ride on the Spree River, sipping mulled wine as you glide by some of the German capital’s greatest sites in comfort and style.

   Freedom of Choice – Christmas Market Tour

   Step into the festive heart of Berlin on a delightful visit to two of the city’s most iconic Christmas markets. Wander the festive stalls at the Rotes Rathaus (Berlin City Hall) Christmas market, featuring a delightful ice rink set around the fountain of Neptune. Continue to the elegant Christmas market at Gendarmenmarkt, renowned for its beautifully crafted gifts, seasonal treats and magical atmosphere.

4. 4

   Berlin, Meissen, Dresden

   Stop at Meissen, where you will set out on your preferred experience. Continue to the city of Dresden, the capital and former royal residence for the Kings Saxony. Once known as the ‘Florence of the North,’ the city boasted cultural and artistic splendour before it was completely destroyed by the controversial Allied aerial bombing during World War II. The impact of the explosions and 40 years of East German socialist influence has considerably changed the face of the city.

   Freedom of Choice – Albrechtsburg Castle

   Travel to Meissen and visit the 15th century Albrechtsburg Castle, which rises majestically above the Elbe River Valley.

   Freedom of Choice – Meissen Porcelain Factory

   Visit the world-famous Meissen Porcelain Factory, established in 1710, which showcases its heritage of producing porcelain products of unrivalled quality, including tableware, figurines, fine art, and jewellery.

   This evening, dine at a local restaurant and savour regional flavours.

5. 5

   Dresden, Prague

   Spend this morning visiting Striezelmarkt in Dresden, Germany’s oldest Christmas market dating back to 1434. Then, delight in lunch at a local restaurant before travelling to Prague.

6. 6

   Prague

   Take a guided discovery of Prague and visit its charming Old Town, spending time wandering its cobblestone streets as well as Charles Bridge. Tonight, indulge in a sumptuous dinner at Alcron Restaurant, a fine dining establishment known for its use of local Czech produce.

7. 7

   Prague

   Today is set aside for a memorable experience just outside of the city.

   Signature Experience – Chateau Jemniště

   Savour a day out at Chateau Jemniště, originally designed by the renowned Czech architect, Frances Maxmilián Kaňka. Be greeted by descendants of the Czech Republic’s oldest aristocratic family before exploring the 18th century estate on a private guided tour. Admire the spectacular baroque architecture and indulge in a delicious lunch before watching impressive birds of prey fly free during an incredible falconry display.

8. 8

   Prague, Velké Bílovice, Budapest, Embark Ship

   Travel to historic Velké Bílovice, then continue to Budapest and board your river ship.

9. 9

   Budapest

   Perhaps take a guided discovery of Budapest and delve into its most fascinating sights, then get into the festive spirit with a visit to two of the city’s charming Christmas markets, where you’ll have the chance to sample mulled wine and some local delicacies. Alternatively, delight in your chosen sightseeing option. Later, set sail for Vienna.

   Freedom of Choice – Budapest Highlights

   Join a city tour of Budapest, visiting historic monuments along the way. See Heroes’ Square and St. Stephen's Basilica. Afterwards, stroll through the Great Market Hall and savour tastings of local produce.

   Freedom of Choice – Fisherman's Bastion

   Enjoy a funicular ride up to Castle Hill and take in the sweeping views over the river, then walk to Fisherman’s Bastion, a beautiful historical monument.

   Freedom of Choice – Budapest Thermal Baths

   Relax in the thermal springs of one of Budapest’s popular thermal baths.

10. 10

    Vienna

    Take in Vienna’s Ringstrasse, plus enjoy a visit to St Stephen’s Cathedral. Afterwards, wander through the Christmas markets and perhaps pick up a souvenir or two. As the scent of mulled wine and gingerbread fills the wintry air, you’ll be reminded that the festive season in Europe is nothing short of magical.

11. 11

    Vienna

    Spend this morning on your preferred activity. In the evening, an extraordinary Signature Experience awaits.

    Freedom of Choice – Explore Schönbrunn Palace

    Perhaps visit the 1,441-room Schönbrunn Palace and its gardens, including the traditional Christmas market in the Parade Court.

    Freedom of Choice – Visit Bratislava in Slovakia

    Tick another country off your list and journey to Slovakia’s Bratislava, where a mixture of 18th-century rococo design and communist era architecture make this a city of alluring contrasts. See some of the architectural landmarks that were built during the city’s time under communist rule. These include the UFO bridge, Slovak Radio building and Hotel Kyjev.

    Signature Experience – Cocktail Party and Private Performance at Vienna’s City Palace

    After dinner, head to the princely family of Liechtenstein’s City Palace in the heart of Vienna, where we have arranged an exclusive cocktail party and private recital, just for you. A full orchestra will perform classical masterpieces by Mozart and Strauss, and you will also be enchanted by an operatic recital.

12. 12

    Dürnstein, Melk

    Enjoy free time to explore Dürnstein before cruising through the picturesque Wachau Valley to Melk. Here, visit striking Melk Abbey, one of the finest Baroque buildings in the world.

    Freedom of Choice – Wachau Valley Scenic Cruise

    Admire stunning landscapes dotted with vineyards, charming villages and historic castles nestled amid lush hills.

13. 13

    Linz, Salzburg, Passau

    Take a guided tour of Salzburg before a Signature Experience.

    Signature Experience – Gaisberg Mountain Lunch and 'Sound of Music' Show

    Be welcomed by a Jagdhornbläser – a hunting horn blower – into a rustic, traditional restaurant on the Gaisberg mountain overlooking Salzburg. Enjoy a welcome drink as you soak in the scenery before savouring a delicious lunch, followed by a show featuring music from the classic film, ‘The Sound of Music’.

14. 14

    Regensburg

    Discover Regensburg and explore its atmospheric World Heritage-listed city centre. With a history dating back to the Roman times, this incredible city was the first capital of Bavaria. Afterwards, visit one of Bavaria’s most beautiful Christmas markets, located in the courtyard at Thurn and Taxis Palace. Wander the various stalls selling handicrafts from the region and enjoy a tasting of local delicacies.

15. 15

    Nuremberg

    Set out on a guided exploration to discover Nuremberg’s history, with its Gothic churches and World War II sites. Afterwards, explore the Christmas market, one of the oldest and most well-known Christmas markets in the world. You’ll also have the opportunity to sample glüwhein, traditional German spiced wine.

16. 16

    Bamberg

    On arrival into Bamberg, join an exploration with a local expert to uncover everything this World Heritage-listed city has to offer.

17. 17

    Würzburg

    Your day unfolds on your terms thanks to a choice of activities today.

    Freedom of Choice – Visit the Würzburg Residence

    The immense architectural beauty of Würzburg is on display today as you stroll through this fascinating city to the Würzburg Residence. An 18th-century palace that once belonged to the Prince-Bishops of Würzburg, this regal building is home to a number of historic wonders. Inside, you’ll marvel at the intricate tapestries, gilded stucco work and ceiling frescoes by famed Tiepolo.

    Freedom of Choice – Explore Rothenburg

    Travel to the walled town of Rothenburg and immerse yourself in medieval life. Wander the narrow cobblestone streets and admire the colourful houses as you stroll. During free time, you may wish to visit Käthe Wohlfahrt’s ‘Christmas Village’, where you’ll find the largest selection of German Christmas decorations in the world.

    Freedom of Choice – Hike to Marienberg Fortress

    Enjoy a hike to Würzburg’s most visible landmark, Marienberg Fortress, an imposing castle overlooking the city, which boasts a fascinating history dating back many centuries.

18. 18

    Miltenberg

    Step ashore in Miltenberg today and set out on a guided exploration. Wander through the cobblestone streets and admire the town’s enchanting half-timbered houses before time at leisure to explore on your own.

19. 19

    Rüdesheim

    Dock in Rüdesheim, where you’ll choose your activity, followed by free time to enjoy the festive atmosphere or perhaps sample a local Rüdesheimer coffee in a cosy cafe.

    Freedom of Choice – Gondola Ride

    Glide over the emerald vineyards of the Rhine Valley in a gondola, enjoying stunning vistas. Arrive at the Niederwald Monument, commemorating the unification of Germany in 1871.

    Freedom of Choice – Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum

    Take a tour of Siegfried’s Mechanical Musical Instrument Museum, an eccentric and unique museum which is home to a beautiful collection of fascinating automated musical instruments from all stages of history.

    Freedom of Choice – Visit a Historic Wine Cellar

    Visit a historic wine cellar for a tasting of Rhine Valley wines. Discover why this location is one of Germany’s most well-known wine regions.

20. 20

    Andernach

    Today, enjoy a Signature Experience. The afternoon will be spent cruising onwards to the Netherlands.

    Signature Experience – Namedy Castle

    Princess Heide von Hohenzollern graciously welcomes APT guests into her home, Namedy Castle, a 14th-century residence set near the Rhine River in Germany. Go beyond the gates and wander about the rooms, hidden nooks and manicured grounds. You’ll then enjoy a morning tea where a pianist playing classical music sets the mood.

21. 21

    Amsterdam

    Arrive into Amsterdam and set out on your chosen activity. Tonight, enjoy a captain’s farewell dinner.

    Freedom of Choice – Glass-Top Boat Canal Cruise

    A peaceful way to see the best of Amsterdam, board a glass-top boat and admire the city’s unique architecture as you cruise the maze of World Heritage-listed canals for which the city is famous.

    Freedom of Choice – Old Amsterdam Cheese Store Visit

    Visit the Old Amsterdam Cheese Store for a cheese tasting perfectly matched with wine.

22. 22

    Disembark Ship, Depart Amsterdam

    Your incredible journey comes to an end today. Following breakfast, say goodbye and be transferred to the airport.

Accommodation

Book this cruise

Send us an enquiry and a consultant will be in touch, or call 1300 414 198 for personal help choosing a departure.

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