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Pre Tour – 2 Nights Vienna
The price you see is the price you pay! 6 days, 5 nights onboard 5-Star Luxurious Ship
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Arriving two days before the cruise sets sail offers a splendid opportunity to delve into Vienna’s unique attractions (over & above the Christmas Markets), tailored for an unforgettable trip.
Here are some hand-picked experiences that steer clear of the mainstream attractions already covered by the cruise itinerary. Pre-Tour agenda not finalized yet.
Embark on an enchanting journey down the majestic Danube River, where the spirit of Christmas comes alive in a tapestry of twinkling lights, festive melodies, and the aromatic allure of seasonal delicacies.
Unlike any other, the Riveria SS William Wordsworth riverboat cruise weaves through the heart of Europe’s most storied cities—Budapest, Vienna, and Bratislava—each hosting their magical Christmas markets that rival the charm of the Rhine’s, yet stand unparalleled in their cultural richness and diversity.
From the grandeur of Budapest’s illuminated streets to the imperial elegance of Vienna and the cozy warmth of Bratislava’s intimate squares, this journey offers a unique blend of tradition, history, and festive cheer. Perfect for those seeking an immersive experience into the heart of Central Europe’s yuletide celebrations, this Danube Christmas Market cruise promises not just a voyage but an unforgettable journey into the soul of Christmas.
What sets “THIS” Christmas Market apart is the Danube’s magic, allowing you the freedom to immerse in the cities’ festive cheer for longer days than the Rhine, offering an extended experience of the twinkling lights and merry ambiance. You’ll get to experience 3 different countries with their own diverse cultural experiences & unique traditions compared to 1 focused Rhine’s German or French market influence. You’ll get to experience a Christmas concert in the heart of where Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss came from. This isn’t just a trip; it’s the ultimate Christmas market experience, blending the charm of Europe’s grand imperial cities with the timeless joy of the season.
Day 1: Saturday, Dec 7, 2024 – Budapest
Travel day from Vienna Pre Tour to Budapest. Moored in Budapest overnight. Evening buffet dinner on board or eat in the city.
As you board your riverboat, you’ll be enveloped in an atmosphere of elegance and welcomed by a professional crew dedicated to making your stay as comfortable and delightful as possible. Explore the ship’s luxury amenities and design, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience.
With the ship anchored in Budapest for the evening, you’ll have the opportunity to experience Budapest with its Christmas Markets once you drop your luggage off. Our luggage will be in our rooms when we return.
FREE Time to meander through its charming Budapest streets, soaking in the festive spirit that adorns the city during this special season.
Day 2: Sunday – Dec 8, 2024 Budapest
Budapest, with its timeless charm, becomes even more enchanting during the Christmas festive season; setting a splendid scene for its famous Christmas Markets.
Morning: Our day begins with a 9:30am Guided Tour – Our tour is of the twin cities of Buda and Pest. Coach tour of Pest side followed by a walking tour of the castle district on the Buda side with a little free time. Tour is approx 2 hrs long. (coach 1 hr, walking 1 hr). Lunch on board. Afternoon cruising to Bratislava.
After the tour, you’ll have the opportunity to explore Budapest at your leisure. Delve into the vibrant Christmas markets, where the air is alive with the melodies of classical music and the smell of gingerbread and complemented by the warmth of mulled wine.
Afternoon: As we reconvene for drinks, the excitement builds as we set sail to Bratislavia. Enjoy a breathtaking stretch where the river meanders through a dramatic landscape of towering mountains and snow-draped hills. Overnight sailing to Bratislava.
Day 3: Monday- Dec 9, 2024 Bratislava
As dawn breaks and we enjoy breakfast, our ship glides into Bratislava, Slovakia’s vibrant capital.
Morning: Our morning exploration will delve into Bratislava’s rich history, highlighting key sights and the traditional Christmas cribs housed in its churches.
8:30am Noddy train tour of the city with a short stop at the castle before continuing to the historic area for a walk around the grounds. Then the noddy train will take us back to town. We have the option to choose whether to join a walking tour (45 minutes) or have free time to explore the Christmas Markets. Then lunch on board.
Afternoon: Optional Excursions: consider GUIDED EXCURSION.
As the day winds down, we’ll reconvene on the ship for another sumptuous dinner, reflecting on the day’s adventures. Overnight sailing to Vienna.
Day 4: Tuesday, Dec 10, 2024 Vienna
Awake to Vienna, a city where the essence of Christmas is woven into the very fabric of its imperial streets.
From its medieval origins, Vienna’s Christmas market tradition has flourished, now boasting over 20 vibrant markets that transform the city into a festive wonderland. The City Hall, with its windows shimmering like a grand advent calendar, and the regal Schönbrunn Palace, with its array of traditional crafts, set a majestic stage for the holiday festivities.
Morning: 9:00am Post-breakfast, enjoy a GUIDED CITY TOUR EXCURSION (2.5 hours, 1 hr coach, 1 hr walking and transfer) of Vienna’s iconic landmarks, including the gothic splendor of St. Stephen’s Cathedral and the grandeur of the Hofburg area. Free time to explore the markets.
Afternoon: invites further exploration of Vienna’s festive Christmas Markets, with their enchanting melodies and aromatic spices filling the air. Free Time with regular return shuttle to/from ship. Optional Excursions to the Spanish Riding School is available.
Savor a gourmet dinner onboard before retreating to the lounge for a nightcap accompanied by a classical recital. Overnight sailing to Budapest.
Day 5: Wednesday, Dec 11, 2024 Budapest
As dawn breaks, enjoy the beauty of a frosted landscape from your cabin balcony window as we sail to Budapest.
Morning: We are still sailing. Enjoy breakfast & lunch onboard. Find the perfect cozy nook in the lounge to witness the unfolding winter wonderland, a serene tapestry of nature in its peaceful slumber, right before your eyes in the enchanting city of Budapest.
Afternoon: The afternoon is yours to explore; a leisurely stroll to Vorosmarty Square reveals a festive Christmas Market paradise, where charming wooden stalls are laden with unique Christmas finds.
Immerse yourself in the festive spirit, captivated by the sweet melodies of traditional honey cookies and the warming embrace of mulled wine, and perhaps treat yourself to a delectable slice of chimney cake.
The day’s enchantment culminates in the Captain’s Dinner, a grand affair where each course is a testament to the culinary prowess of our dedicated crew. As the evening unfolds, the bar becomes a haven of camaraderie, where laughter and tales of our shared journey weave the final threads of this unforgettable getaway on the Danube, leaving us with memories to cherish and stories to share for years to come.
Moored in Budapest overnight.
Day 6: Thursday, Dec 12, 2024 Budapest
It’s disembarkment day! As dawn gently ushers in day six, the time arrives for us to bid farewell to our floating sanctuary and all the fun we experienced at the Christmas Markets on the Danube.
With hearts full of cherished memories and spirits with this group of people we disembark the ship, each of us ready to embark on the journey homeward carrying with us the stories and friendships forged along the Danube’s enchanting waters.
Prices are per person, based on two people sharing a twin cabin with a limited number of single cabins available on all decks, at the relevant supplement.
The price you see is the price you pay! Port fees, taxes, and excursions all included.
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Fact File
Wi-Fi
Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the ship for the duration of your cruise. Please note that speeds may vary.
Mobility
We want to ensure you make the correct choice before you book your vacation with us. If you have any concerns regarding the suitability of the vacation due to reduced mobility we would encourage you to contact us to discuss these concerns.
Welcome aboard the SS William Wordsworth, a pinnacle of river cruising luxury, where each all-suite accommodation spans a generous minimum of 183 square feet, offering unparalleled comfort and elegance.
With a dedicated crew of 44 attending to the needs of just 169 guests, this five-star vessel ensures a personalized and intimate experience.
The ship’s refined interiors and expansive design reflect the golden age of cruising, while the dining experience, with its exquisite European porcelain and attentive Swiss service, rivals the finest establishments ashore.
Embark on a journey where every detail is meticulously crafted for an unforgettable voyage.