Compare Europe Christmas Markets: Munich to Budapest by Intrepid Travel vs Enchanted Europe with 2 Nights in Budapest (Westbound) by Avalon Waterways
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| Trip |
4.5 | Great
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5 | Excellent
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| Duration | 8 days | 18 days |
| Price From | $ 2,460 | $ 8,697 |
| Price Per Day | $ 308 | $ 483 |
| Highlights |
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| Trip Style | Small group tour | River cruise |
| Lodging Level | Standard | Standard |
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| Countries Visited | ||
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| Flights & Transport | Ground transport included | No |
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| Meals Included | N/A | N/A |
| Description |
Indulge the senses by exploring the best of Central Europe’s festive market scene. Feel the bustling energy of Munich’s charismatic Christmas markets, savour the smell of spicy festive delights in Salzburg, see the sights of vibrant Vienna and take a therapeutic soak in the thermal baths of Budapest. Meander from stall to stall, discovering new sights, sounds, flavours and fashions. |
Board your Avalon Suite Ship® after enjoying two nights in Budapest, the “Pearl of the Danube.” Your Danube River cruise embarks with an overnight cruise to Vienna, followed by Dürnstein and Melk in Austria’s beautiful Wachau Valley. Cruise from Austria to Germany as you sail to Passau, then the Bavarian city of Regensburg to see the 12th-century Old Town Hall. Cruise to Nuremberg to choose a guided tour of Roth, Nuremberg city sightseeing, or a tour of the notorious Nuremberg Rally Grounds of WWII. From Nuremberg, join a full-day excursion to Munich before sailing to Frankfurt for guided sightseeing. Cruise to Rüdesheim and through the magnificent Rhine Gorge. Your European river cruise stops in splendid Strasbourg, France, with its Gothic cathedral towering above its stained glass and murals, before cruising to Breisach, Germany—gateway to the magical Black Forest. Enjoy a day of storybook surroundings, sumptuous bakery specialties (such as Black Forest Cake), and a glimpse into generations of authentic Bavarian life. Your river cruise on the Danube, Rhine, and Main Rivers concludes in Basel, Switzerland. |
Day 1 Munich
Willkommen! Welcome to Munich, Germany. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm. In the evening, head out for an included dinner with the rest of the group. If you can't arrange a flight that will arrive in time, you may wish to arrive a day early so you're able to attend the meeting. We'll be happy to book additional accommodation for you (subject to availability).
Day 2 Munich
In the morning after breakfast, venture out with your leader for an orientation walk of Munich. This cosmopolitan metropolis houses an extraordinary array of sights for travellers more interested in art, architecture, history, music and, of course, Christmas markets. There are 20 different Christmas markets in Munich and you'll be introduced to the best of them. From the Kripperlmarkt, which has all you need to create an authentic manger, to the Tollwood Christmas Market, Munich's vibrant ethnic festival. Music lovers will be able to get into the festive spirit with a special alpine Christmas Market concert from the balcony of Munich's town hall, which takes places Sunday to Thursday while the Christmas markets are on. Sip on a mug of gluehwein, grab a grilled sausage and browse the markets full of toys, wood carvings, candles etc.
Day 3 Salzburg
Travel south-east into Austria by train to Salzburg today, which should take around one hour and forty five minutes. Built on the fortune of its famous salt mines, Salzburg is the birthplace of the Snow White and the Seven Dwarves legend, home to the hills from the Sound of Music and purveyor of absolutely everything Mozart. On arrival, check in to your hotel and then head out into the city for an orientation walk with your leader. The city will captivate with its history, as well as its cobblestone lanes, bubbling river and charmingly kitsch atmosphere. In the late afternoon, visit the atmospheric Christmas market in Cathedral Square. The smells of gluhwein, roasted chestnuts, toasted almonds and cinnamon brushed baked apples waft through the marketplace, while the sounds of traditional Salzburg choirs fill the air. Here your leader will take you on food crawl that may include such classics as Lebkuchen (gingerbread), Kasnock´n (cheese gnocchi), Bratwurst (sausage), Mozartkugel (marzipan-covered nougat in dark chocolate cover), Schwarzbrot (sourdough bread). Later on, jump in to a cable car and reach the Hohensalzburg Fortress, the city’s most visible landmark. This fully preserved castle hosts very small, intimate Christmas market and if you’re lucky, a Christmas themed live music.
Day 4 Salzburg
Today is free to explore Salzburg and the surrounding areas. Perhaps make your way to the salt mine in Berchtesgaden, situated in the German Alps. Otherwise, you may want to experience the life of the von Trapp family from the Sound of Music and visit movie scenes of the Mirabell Gardens and Pegasus Fountain, Leopoldskron Palace and Hellbrunn Palace. In the evening, why not head back to the Christmas markets to soak up even more of the blissful atmosphere?
Day 5 Vienna
Board a train bound for Vienna today (approximately 2.5 hours). On arrival, embark on a leader-led walking tour of Vienna, passing grand buildings and parks. You'll see many monuments dedicated to famous composers and historical figures. In your free time, perhaps visit the striking Hofburg Palace, the Leopold Museum or seek out exceptional city views on the Prater Ferris Wheel. Later in the afternoon, head to the Christmas markets in front of the City Hall. Browse the markets, sip on Christmas punch and snack on some freshly baked cinnamon biscuits.
Day 6 Vienna
You'll have the whole day to explore Vienna, so perhaps head to Schoenbrunn Palace, which was designed by Empress Maria Theresa herself. The gardens are free to all visitors but there is a charge for entrance and tours of the palace. Avoid long queues by pre-booking your tickets at schoenbrunn.at. Also, with over 12 Christmas markets to visit in the city, you'll be sure to find the perfect Christmas present.
Day 7 Budapest
Travel east from Vienna to Budapest by train (approximately 3 hours). Known as the 'Pearl of the Danube', Budapest's grand architecture and boulevards evoke a time gone by. With so much to see and do, hiring a bicycle is a great way to move between sights and attractions. After a short orientation walk around the city, it's time to visit the Christmas markets. With the main Christmas market being located in Vorosmarty Square, every street light, tree and market stall lit up it gives the area a real Christmas feel. There are plenty of stalls offering different Hungarian foods to try and buy. Experience these great markets of Budapest with a glass of mulled wine or shot of traditional Hungarian palinka. The combination of market cheer and Neo-Renaissance architecture is a charming one.
Day 8 Budapest
Your Christmas Market adventure comes to an end today. There are no more activities planned and you're free to depart the accommodation at any time after you check-out.
Day 1: BUDAPEST, HUNGARY
Welcome to Budapest—Hungary’s Captivating Capital
The day is yours to relax and enjoy Eastern Europe’s shining city on the Danube.
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Day 2: BUDAPEST
The Pearl of the Danube in the Heart of Europe
CLASSIC Enjoy a Guided City Sightseeing, including the iconic Heroes’ Square.
Take in the beauty of Budapest while enjoying a free afternoon exploring such famous sights as the Chain Bridge. Get to know the city’s cafés and pubs, or take a hike through the hills above the Danube.
(Breakfast)
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Day 3: BUDAPEST (EMBARKATION)
Time for Coffee, and Confections
With a free day to explore before your cruise, take time to take photographs on the Royal Palace grounds in this treasure trove of historical architecture. Try Budapest’s famous thermal bath spas, then lunch in a garden or rooftop eatery before boarding your Suite Ship®.
EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO VIENNA
(Breakfast,Dinner)
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Day 4: VIENNA, AUSTRIA
Viennese Waltzes on the Blue Danube
Visit the Adventure Center for today’s activities with your Adventure Host.
Enjoy sailing the Danube, which shares dozens of miles with Hungary and Slovakia. Relax on the Sky Deck to see the rolling landscape and red-rooftops of the Slovakian capital of Bratislava come into view.
This evening in Vienna, you may choose to join an Optional Excursion to attend a Royal Waltz Concert for an unforgettable evening of music in an elegant hall.
OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN VIENNA
(Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner)
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Day 5: VIENNA
Royal Collections, and Amusing Attractions
ACTIVE Explore Vienna's Danube Island by bike with your Adventure Host, OR:
CLASSIC After a short walk of Vienna, join a Guided Visit of Austria’s largest museum, the legendary Kunsthistorisches Museum (Museum of Fine Arts), OR: CLASSIC Explore the Habsburg empire this morning on a Guided City Tour of Vienna’s gilded landmarks. See the Imperial Palace complex—the winter residence of the Imperial Family, the iconic Vienna Opera House and stunning St. Stephen’s Cathedral.
Join a Guided Optional Excursion to Schönbrunn Palace— summer home of the Habsburg Empire.
Enjoy free time this afternoon to take a tram to visit Vienna’s Prater amusement park or one of the many museums nearby. You may also borrow a bike from the ship to explore Vienna’s square or the banks of the Danube.
Later, enjoy live entertainment on board.
OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO DÜRNSTEIN
(Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner)
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Day 6: DÜRNSTEIN–WACHAU VALLEY
A King’s Ransom and Castle Ruins
ACTIVE Join a Guided Hike up to the castle ruins for a spectacular view of the village, Danube, and the Wachau Valley below, OR:CLASSIC Join a Guided Walk, and hear the legendary tale of King Richard the Lionheart—who was imprisoned in the castle above the village during the Crusades.Enjoy coffee or a cocktail on the Sky Deck as you sail through the picturesque Wachau Valley to Melk.
MELK
Frescoes Above and Vineyards Below
ACTIVE Join your Avalon Adventure Host for a bike along the Danube river from Dürnstein to Melk.CLASSIC Take a Guided Tour of Melk’s magnificent Benedictine Abbey to marvel at its frescoed ceilings, statues, incredible library, and ornate pipe organ.
DISCOVERY Enjoy the flavors of the Wachau Valley with a Wine Tasting on board.
EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO PASSAU
(Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner)
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Day 7: PASSAU, GERMANY
Where the Danube, Inn, and Ilz Rivers Meet
CLASSIC Join a Guided City Walk to learn more about this beautiful “City of Three Rivers.”
Alternatively, join a full-day Guided Optional Excursion to Salzburg—the city of Mozart—or to the picturesque Bohemian town of Cesky Krumlov.
Meet your ship back in Passau after your full-day selected activity for sailing.EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO REGENSBURG
(Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner)
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Day 8: REGENSBURG
Bavaria’s Medieval Miracle
Join your Adventure Host for today’s special activities.
ACTIVE Explore Walhalla by bike with your Adventure Host, OR:CLASSIC Join a Guided City Walk and see Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall) and Porta Pretoria—built in 179 AD as the entrance to Castra Regina fortress.
You may choose to join a Guided Optional Excursion to visit the Benedictine Monastery in Weltenburg.
Alternatively spend a free afternoon exploring Regensburg on foot or by bike through its charming streets.
This evening, enjoy live entertainment after dinner.
EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO ROTH
(Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner)
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Day 9: ROTH. EXCURSION TO NUREMBERG
Legends and History Lessons
DISCOVERY Enjoy an onboard Lecture about the Main-Danube Canal—linking these two rivers to make a vital connection enabling navigation between the North and Black Seas.
ACTIVE Explore Roth's Lauter valley with your Adventure Host, OR:CLASSIC Enjoy a Guided Sightseeing Tour of the Bavarian town of Roth—with its half-timbered houses, market square, and 1535 hunting lodge Schloss Ratibor, OR:
CLASSIC Choose a Guided Sightseeing of Nuremberg—with its medieval architecture, gilded fountain, Gothic cathedral, and Kaiserburg Castle, OR:CLASSIC Take a Guided Tour of the historic Nuremberg Rally Grounds—used by the Third Reich.
EVENING CRUISE TO NUREMBERG
(Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner)
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Day 10: NUREMBERG–EXCURSION TO MUNICH
A King’s Palace and Town Halls
CLASSIC Take a full-day Guided Tour of the highlights of fascinating Munich. See Nymphenburg Palace—a former residence of German monarchs, along with the old and new Town Halls of Marienplatz.EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO BAMBERG
(Breakfast,Dinner)
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Day 11: BAMBERG
The City of Seven Hills
Visit the Adventure Center for today’s activities with your Adventure Host.
ACTIVE Your bike is ready! Hop on and bike along the canals in Bamberg with your Adventure Host, OR:CLASSIC Take a Guided Walking Tour of the historic home to imperial dynasties, and see its Romanesque cathedral, Old Town Hall, and seven hills crowned with churches.
After the tour, spend free time with a glass of German-style Rauchbier (smoked beer).
AFTERNOON/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO WÜRZBURG
(Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner)
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Day 12: WÜRZBURG
A Perfect Day in the Pearl of the Romantic Road
You may choose to join a Guided Optional Excursion to the beautiful Bavarian town of Rothenburg. See the local sights and enjoy the fairytale atmosphere that has inspired artists.
ACTIVE Explore Würzburg's charm by bike with your Adventure Host, OR:CLASSIC Take a Guided Sightseeing Tour of Würzburg with its Old Main Bridge, towering fortress, and baroque Bishop’s Residenz—with the largest known ceiling fresco.
Enjoy live entertainment on board while sailing tonight.
EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO MILTENBERG
(Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner)
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Day 13: MILTENBERG
Beauty on the Main River
CLASSIC Join a Guided Walking Tour of Miltenberg, a showcase of medieval half-timber homes and home to Germany’s oldest inn.EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO FRANKFURT
(Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner)
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Day 14: FRANKFURT. EXCURSION TO SELIGENSTADT
Charm in Frankfurt
ACTIVE Enjoy a biking experience in the city of Frankfurt with your Adventure Host, OR: DISCOVERY Take a Guided Tour to Seligenstadt—one of Germany’s oldest towns and home to the Einhard Basilika—dubbed “minor basilica” in 1925 by Pope Pius XI, OR:CLASSIC Join a Guided Sightseeing Tour of Frankfurt to see the city’s cultural landmarks and gleaming financial headquarters combined with the cozy ambience of quaint neighborhoods.Spend free time this afternoon exploring Frankfurt on your own.
Later, enjoy live entertainment on board.
EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO BOPPARD
(Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner)
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Day 15: BOPPARD
A Peaceful Jewel in the Rhine Gorge
This afternoon, relax on the Sky Deck with views of the spectacular Rhine Gorge en route to Rüdesheim.
RÜDESHEIM–RHINE GORGE
Eat, Drink, and Be Merry in Wine Country
ACTIVE Enjoy a hike with your Adventure Host through the picturesque vineyards of Rüdesheim, OR:DISCOVERY Tour the incredible Mechanical Music Museum for a one-of-a-kind instrumental experience; based on your departure enjoy a local special treat.EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO STRASBOURG
(Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner)
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Day 16: STRASBOURG
A Grand Cathedral and La Petite France
Join your Adventure Host for today’s special activities. CLASSIC Come along for City Sightseeing, including the city’s Gothic, stained-glass cathedral with its celebrated ancient murals and astronomical clock, as well as the magical La Petite France District.
EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO BREISACH
(Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner)
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Day 17: BREISACH, GERMANY. EXCURSION TO BLACK FOREST
German Winemaking and the Beautiful Black Forest
ACTIVE Enjoy the view on a relaxing bike ride along the Rhine with your Adventure Host, OR:DISCOVERY Join a full-day Guided Tour to the magical Black Forest to experience the Vogtsbauernohf open-air-museum, visit an authentic water mill, and see a traditional butter-making demonstration, OR:
DISCOVERY Visit to a local winery in Breisach, where you will learn about German winemaking and enjoy a wine tasting, OR:
CLASSIC Join A Guided Tour to explore Freiburg’s medieval city center, sheltered by the Black Forest amid vineyards and gardens of the Upper Rhine Valley.You may choose to join a Guided Optional Excursion to visit the charming village of Colmar in the morning.EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO BASEL(Breakfast,Lunch,Dinner)
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Day 18: BASEL, SWITZERLAND (DISEMBARKATION)
Your vacation ends this morning with breakfast.
Departure flights should not leave Zürich airport before 10 am or Basel airport before 8 am.
(Breakfast)
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