Find the River Cruise you’re looking for...
When do you want to start your cruise?
Where do you want to go?
6 Day Avalon Waterways River Cruise from Budapest to Vienna 2025(WBT)
Christmastime from Budapest to Vienna
Starting from $2,274
Ship(s): Avalon Expression, Avalon Imagery II, Avalon Impression
River Cruise Description
Make your holiday wishes come true with special departures for the festive season to experience Europe's most beautiful Christmas markets and festivities. Enjoy the jolly atmosphere on our decorated Suite Ships® as you delight in the sights, smells, and tastes of local Christmas traditions along your Danube River cruise. Enjoy stunning winter views on the Danube with the warm glow of Christmas markets, beautifully adorned with ageless traditions.Begin your cruise in Budapest, the capital of Hungary, with guided sightseeing and free time to explore one more Christmas market and buy one-of-a-kind gifts. Next, you'll sail to the centuries-old Slovakian city of Bratislava with guided sightseeing and time to browse the beautiful Christmas markets. Take a guided tour of its cobblestone streets and Gothic St. Martin's Cathedral. Next, cruise to wonderful Melk for guided sightseeing in Austria's Wachau Valley, including the magnificent Benedictine Abbey perched above the Danube. Continue your festive Danube River cruise to Vienna-the "City of Music." Enjoy guided sightseeing and the glow of sparkling Christmas markets while exploring the Imperial Palace, Vienna Opera House, and stunning St. Stephen's Cathedral.Thanks for your interest!
We'll be in touch soon.Error
I'm sorry, but an error has occurred. Try Again| Departure Date | Ship | Priced From (per person) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 24, 2025 | Avalon Expression | $2,274 | Call Us! |
| Nov 29, 2025 | Avalon Impression | $3,927 | Call Us! |
| Dec 17, 2025 | Avalon Imagery II | $2,374 | Call Us! |
Avalon has designed included activities with a choice of experiences. We invite you to select the tours, activities, and events that interest you most, so you can experience your cruise your way. There are 3 types of included shore excursion on every Europe cruise:
Classic
Your local expert is ready to guide you through the history and heritage of local destinations. You'll marvel at the legends, lore, and spectacular architecture of iconic and historic sites.
Discovery
We've found inspiring and interactive activities to speak to your interests — from cooking classes, to painting workshops — to immerse yourself in each culture you explore.
Active
Embark on energetic excursions to keep you in motion and on the go — from a guided jogging tour of Amsterdam, to biking, paddling, and hiking your way through scenic locales.
- Plus independent exploration options and use of Avalon's exclusive AvalonGO APP.
River Cruise Itinerary
Day 1 BUDAPEST, HUNGARY (EMBARKATION)
Welcome to Hungary. Your Suite Ship® is Ready for Boarding. Flights into Budapest must arrive by 3:30 pm. Guests must be on board ship by 5 pm.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. Enjoy the warmth and glow of Christmas tradition before boarding your Suite Ship®.OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN BUDAPEST
(D)
Day 2 BUDAPEST
Christmas Lights and Classic Sights
Classic
Take a Guided Sightseeing Tour to see majestic Heroes’ Square and Budapest’s classic sites.
EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO BRATISLAVA
(B,L,D)
Day 3 BRATISLAVA, SLOVAKIA
Cathedral Coronations and a Crowning Castle
Classic
Join a Guided Sightseeing Tour of Old Town’s cobblestone streets to Town Hall. Visit the Gothic halls of St. Martin’s Cathedral—Hungary’s centuries-old coronation church.
AFTERNOON/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO MELK
(B,L,D)
Day 4 MELK, AUSTRIA
Frescoes Above and Vineyards Below
Classic
Take a Guided Tour of Melk’s magnificent Benedictine Abbey to marvel at its frescoed ceilings, statues, incredible library, and ornate pipe organ.
VIENNA
Vienna’s Winter Wonderland
This evening, you may choose to attend an Optional Excursion to a Royal Waltz Concert for an unforgettable evening of music in an elegant hall.OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN VIENNA
(B,L,D)
Day 5 VIENNA
Royal Collections and Christmas Confections
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.
OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN VIENNA
(B,L,D)
Day 6 VIENNA (DISEMBARKATION)
Your cruise ends with breakfast this morning.(B)
Need more information?
Having trouble deciding which cruise is right for you?
Call Us Today at 1.888.804.CRUISE (2784)Having trouble deciding which cruise is right for you?