Central EuropeChristmas Market Magic
- 11 days
- 9 nights
- 17 meals
After a day in Vienna, board your river cruise ship and set sail for the loveliest Christmas markets in Central Europe. First stop: Budapest, where you’ll have two days to explore the city and, of course, the famous Christmas market. Then head to Bratislava and a Christmas market known for its beautiful blown glass. Wrap up your journey on land in Prague, with its impressive palaces, historic monuments, and magical Christmas market.
Port of departure:
Vienna
Cities on itinerary:
Vienna, Budapest, Bratislava, Český Krumlov, Prague
- Moderate
- CAA-Quebec host
Highlights:
- Tour of several Christmas markets
- Folk dinner show in Prague
- Tour of the charming town of Cesky Krumlov
- Perfect balance between tours and free time
Itinerary
- Day 1: Montreal – Vienna
Fly to Vienna.
- Day 2: Vienna
Transfer to the hotel upon arrival. Hilton Vienna Hotel 4*
- Day 3: Vienna
Free day to take in the magnificent city of Vienna, then board MS Douce France in the late afternoon. Welcome cocktail party and Austrian-style dinner on board. (B-D)
- Day 4: Vienna – Budapest
In the morning, enjoy a guided tour of the city of Vienna, including the Ringstrasse, State Opera, Hofburg Imperial Palace, history museum, and City Hall. After that, you’ll have some free time to visit the Christmas markets, including Rathausplatz, with its 150 stalls and a towering 12-meter arch reminiscent of a Christmas wreath. Return to the ship and sail to Budapest in the afternoon. (B-L-D)
- Day 5: Budapest
In the morning, take a scenic tour of the city known as “the pearl of the Danube,” including Buda with its castle district providing spectacular city views. Walk to the fishermen’s bastion. Continue on to Pest to explore Heroes’ Square and several other historic sites. End the guided tour at Vorosmarty Square, which is home to the largest Christmas market in Europe. It’s the perfect opportunity to savour gingerbread treats and warm bread. Spend the afternoon as you please. Enjoy an evening of entertainment aboard the ship. (B-L-D)
- Day 6 : Budapest – Bratislava
Sail to Bratislava in the morning and take a scenic tour of the city, including its castle, then continue with a walking tour of the Old Town, Main Square, and Old Town Hall. Enjoy some free time at the city’s Christmas market, with its local specialties and beautiful blown glass. Return to the ship for a gala evening. (B-L-D)
- Day 7: Bratislava – Vienna – Cesky Krumlov – Prague
Disembark and travel to Cesky Krumlov, one of South Bohemia’s most beautiful towns, to see the imposing Renaissance-era castle and take a guided city tour. Continue on to Prague. Free time upon arrival. Occidental Praha Hotel 4* (B)
- Day 8 : Prague
In the morning, visit the Stare Mesto district. Guided tour of Prague’s old town, including its famous astronomical clock, the art nouveau statue of Jean Hus, and the cathedral. In the afternoon, you’re free to browse the city’s famous Bohemian crystal shops and the many Christmas market stalls. Enjoy a Christmas concert in the evening.(B)
- Day 9 : Prague
In the morning, visit the Mala Strana district, a charming area with winding cobblestone streets and palaces converted into luxury hotels and embassies. In Mala Strana you’ll also find Kampa Island, accessible via the Charles Bridge, with its waterfront quay on the Vltava River. Spend the afternoon as you please. (B)
- Day 10: Prague
Take a guided tour of the city and Hradcany Hill, crowned with its castle, and discover a host of impressive historic monuments, including the cathedral, the Baroque convent, sumptuous palaces, churches, and the monastery. Witness the changing of the guard. Enjoy a folk dinner show in the evening to top off the end of the trip. (B-D)
- Day 11 : Prague – Montreal
Transfer to the airport and fly back to Montreal. (B)
Inclusions
Montréal – Vienna and Prague – Montréal flights
Transportation by tour bus
Transfers
5 nights in 4* accommodations
4-night cruise in Main Deck category stateroom
City tour(s) with local French-speaking guide
Tours, excursions, and activities listed in the itinerary
Service of a French-speaking host guide and local guides
Free internet access aboad the ship
Individual earphones
Drinks included at lunch and dinner during the cruise (one glass of wine or mineral water and one coffee per person per meal)
Handling of one suitcase per person
Travel guidebook & explore gift
Applicable taxes
Travel insurance
Tips and personal expenses
Anything not listed in the “Price includes” section
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Sail aboard the MS Douce France
Launched in 1997 and refurbished in 2017, MS Douce France accommodates 107 passengers. It embodies French art de vivre with a welcoming atmosphere and serene sailing.
Contemporary bar
Elegant, friendly space to gather and enjoy the view
Comfortable staterooms
Renovated staterooms for relaxing after a day of discovery
MS Douce France is all about the joy of travelling
Serene sailing while enjoying the scenery and ports of call
Panoramic restaurant
Gourmet French cuisine in an elegant setting with a panoramic view
Cozy living spaces
Ship with a personal touch and typical French welcome
No departure on the date you wanted? Trip fully booked?
For personalized assistance, call 1-844-869-2439 or email us.
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Our explore pledge: Travelling differently together
Our exclusive group tours are designed to ensure an enriching, friendly, and fuss-free experience:
- French-speaking tour host
- Generous inclusions and exclusive excursions
- Members earn CAA Dollars back
- 15% back in CAA Dollars at the Boutique
- Rewards for loyal travellers
Rates are per person, based on double occupancy, according to the stateroom category indicated. Other stateroom categories are available. The accommodation establishments listed may be changed without prior notice. A minimum number of guests is required to ensure the presence of a CAA-Quebec Travel host. Please note that group flight contracts do not allow for seat selection. We therefore recommend that you check in with the airlines 24 hours before departure. This offer may be withdrawn at any time without prior notice. Read the full terms and conditions.
If the scheduled flight is operated by Air France or KLM, only the Air France/KLM shuttle bus service will be available for passengers departing from Québec City.