Central EuropeA foretaste of Christmas Markets
- 12 days
- 10 nights
- 20 meals
The weather is cooling, the leaves are swirling down, and it’s time to break out the cozy sweaters. Clearly, Mother Nature is preparing for her winter’s rest. What could be more invigorating than the autumnal charm of cities such as Munich, Vienna, or Budapest? As they gear up for the festive season, sail down the Danube and stroll through their Christmas markets to soak up the holiday spirit. You’ll come away with a heart full of joy!
Port of departure:
Vilshofen
Cities on itinerary:
Munich, Vilshofen, Passau, Linz, Dürnstein, Vienna, Bratislava, Budapest
- Moderate
- CAA-Quebec host
Highlights:
- A journey full of culture and history
- Tastings of local fare
- A voyage through the Strudengau passage
- Tour of historic Christmas markets
Itinerary
- Day 1 : Montréal – Munich
Fly to Munich.
- Day 2: Munich
Arrive at the airport. Transfer to the hotel and check in. Hotel Bayerischer Hof 4*
- Day 3: Munich
Take a guided tour of Munich, the Bavarian capital and one of Germany’s largest cities. Take a walking tour of the old town that ends at the iconic glockenspiel. In the afternoon, pop into a brewery for a beer and pretzel tasting. (B)
- Day 4: Munich – Vilshofen (165km)
In the late morning, transfer by coach to Vilshofen, where you’ll board the ship. In the late afternoon, take part in an Oktoberfest celebration with beer and traditional dances. (B-D)
- Day 5: Vilshofen – Passau
Spend the morning exploring Vilshofen. Sail to Passau. Upon arrival, take a guided tour of the “City of Three Rivers” and jewel of Bavaria. Passau’s cathedral is home to the world’s biggest organ. (B-L-D)
- Day 6: Linz
Depart for a full-day trip to Mozart’s birthplace, Salzburg, which famously served as the setting for the film The Sound of Music. After exploring Salzburg’s Mirabell Gardens and Getreidegasse, head to Mondsee for a guided tour of its historic centre, old market, and the famous St. Michael’s Basilica. Enjoy dinner on board the ship. (B-D)
- Day 7: Dürnstein
In the morning, sail through the beautiful Strudengau passage. In the afternoon, take a walking tour of the quaint village of Dürnstein, where King Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned. Then visit the Benedictine Abbey of Melk, a baroque masterpiece. (B-L-D)
- Day 8: Vienna
Go on a sightseeing tour of Vienna along Ring Road to admire the lavish buildings, including the Vienna opera house, parliament building, Gothic city hall, and Hofburg Palace (former imperial palace). Then stroll through the pedestrian area, where you’ll see the very elegant St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Spend the afternoon as you please. (B-L-D)
- Day 9: Vienna – Bratislava – Vienna (160km)
Travel by coach to Bratislava, Slovakia, where you’ll take a walking tour to see the former city hall, Mirbach Palace, and Gothic St. Martin’s Cathedral. Return to Vienna and enjoy the free afternoon to explore the Christmas markets. (B-L-D)
- Day 10: Budapest
Take a guided tour of Buda, a historic part of the city on the right bank of the Danube. Visit the Buda Castle District, including Fisherman’s Bastion and Matthias Church, known for its impressive tower and mosaic roof. (B)
- Day 11: Budapest
Disembark in the morning and spend the day exploring the city. Budapest Marriott Hotel 5* (B)
- Day 12: Budapest – Montréal
Transfer to the airport and fly back to Montréal. (B)
Inclusions
Vols Montréal - Munich et Budapest - Montréal
Transportation by tour bus
3 nights in 3* accommodations
7-night cruise in Category D stateroom
Tours, excursions, and activities listed in the itinerary
Activities and shows on board the ship
Wine, beer, and non-alcoholic beverages with meal aboard the ship
1 before-dinner cocktail per day during the cruise
CAA-Quebec Travel host from the moment you leave Quebec with a minimum of passengers
Onboard activities and entertainment with 20 passengers
Free internet access aboad the ship
Handling of one suitcase per person
Travel guidebook & explore gift
Applicable taxes
Travel insurance
Personal expenses
Anything not listed in the “Price includes” section
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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. Prices are subject to change without 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.