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7 Day Avalon Waterways River Cruise from Vienna to Nuremberg 2025(WVN)
Christmastime on the Danube
Starting from $3,079
Ship(s): Avalon Envision, Avalon Expression, Avalon Impression, Avalon Tranquility II
River Cruise Description
This Christmastime river cruise begins in Austria's magical capital of Vienna, home to the sounds of Mozart, Strauss, and the Vienna Boys' Choir. See the famous sights with a Local Guide, or opt to go on a culinary tour through the Christmas markets to get a taste of all the best flavors Austria offers during this time of year. Cruise through the wintery landscape of the picturesque Wachau Valley to Melk. Here, you'll tour the magnificent 11th century Benedictine Abbey-one of Europe's largest monasteries-where monks still stroll amidst the sacred walls. Arrive in Passau, Germany, and visit the city's charming Christmas market set against the breathtaking backdrop of St. Stephen's Cathedral, a masterpiece of baroque architecture. In Regensburg, after a guided tour of the city, savor traditional sausages at Historiche Wurstküche (Old Sausage Kitchen), one of Germany's oldest restaurants and enjoy a tasting of German beers. Learn about Christmas traditions as you cruise to Nuremberg, the thousand-year-old city with its medieval fortifications and gothic churches. The Old Town is illuminated with festive lights and decorations, and the Christmas market has dozens of stalls offering traditional wares, such as Lebkuchen (spicy gingerbread), Glühwein (mulled wine), and unique decorations and ornaments. A unique holiday river cruise vacation which offers the chance to savor the views, smells, and tastes of centuries-old Christmas markets and explore historical medieval sites...a fantastic way to celebrate the holiday season!Thanks for your interest!
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I'm sorry, but an error has occurred. Try Again| Departure Date | Ship | Priced From (per person) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nov 28, 2025 | Avalon Envision | $3,579 | Call Us! |
| Nov 29, 2025 | Avalon Expression | $3,579 | Call Us! |
| Dec 9, 2025 | Avalon Tranquility II | $3,579 | Call Us! |
| Dec 10, 2025 | Avalon Envision | $3,329 | Call Us! |
| Dec 11, 2025 | Avalon Expression | $3,329 | Call Us! |
| Dec 16, 2025 | Avalon Impression | $3,079 | 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 VIENNA, AUSTRIA (EMBARKATION)
Welcome to Austria. Your Suite Ship® is Ready for Boarding.Flights into Vienna must arrive by 3:30 pm. Guests must be on board ship by 5 pm.Indulge in traditional holiday fare and hot libations to warm your heart and soul before boarding.(D)
Day 2 VIENNA
Royal Collections and Amusing Attractions
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 CRUISE TO MELK
(B,L,D)
Day 3 MELK–GREIN
Frescoes above the Wachau Valley
Classic
Take a Guided Tour of Melk’s magnificent Benedictine Abbey to marvel at its frescoed ceilings.
Discovery
Enjoy an Austrian Cookie Tasting onboard while sailing to Grein.
Classic
Take a Guided Walk of Grein, including its historic theater, the oldest in Austria still holding regular performances.
OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO PASSAU
(B,L,D)
Day 4 PASSAU
Saint Stephens, Salzburg, and the Story of Silent Night
Classic
Join a Guided City Walk to learn more about this beautiful “City of Three Rivers.”
EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO REGENSBURG
(B,L,D)
Day 5 REGENSBURG
Christmas Magic in Bavaria
Classic
Join a Guided City Walk and see Altes Rathaus (Old Town Hall) and Porta Pretoria—entrance to the Castra Regina fortress built in 179 AD.
EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO NUREMBERG
(B,L,D)
Day 6 NUREMBERG
Legends and History Lessons
Discovery
Enjoy a Christmas Traditions Lecture on board while sailing this morning.
Classic
Choose a Guided Tour of Nuremberg’s medieval architecture, gilded fountain, Gothic cathedral, and Kaiserburg Castle, OR:
Classic
Join a Guided Tour of the historic Nuremberg Rally Grounds—used by the Third Reich.
OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN NUREMBERG
(B,L,D)
Day 7 NUREMBERG (DISEMBARKATION)
Your cruise ends with breakfast this morning.(B)
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