Why you should take a river cruise on The Danube at Christmas time
Start Christmas early by embarking on a Festive River Cruise down The Danube. Your vacation starts from Nuremberg or Prague and ends in Budapest or Vienna. River Cruising down the Danube is magical anyway, let alone when you visit in December! See countless Christmas Markets and sparkling lights as you stroll through the cobbled streets of Europe’s finest cities. Accompany the glorious views with seasonal drinks and you’ll be wondering why you didn’t think of this trip sooner.
Here are some highlights of the route to get you excited:
• Nuremberg Old Town Christmas Market – one of the largest markets in Germany.
The Nurnberger Christkindlesmarkt is one of the most famous European Christmas Markets out there and is said to have been around since 1628 or earlier. If you’re lucky enough to be there on the Friday before Advent, you can witness the Opening Ceremony which features the Christkind reciting her famous prologue and officially opening the markets. Even if you miss this impressive event, you will adore these particular markets. With 180 stalls of traditional food, drink and crafts, this market should be the first on your Christmas Market Bucketlist.
• Explore medieval architecture in Regensburg or taste some of Germany’s famous beers.
Regensburg is a fascinating depiction of architecture through the ages. Named as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2006, the city depicts Medieval, Roman, and Gothic buildings. You only need to take a walk through the Old Town of Regensburg to gain an insight into the city’s past as an important medieval trading centre. Admire the cultural significance of Regensburg then go for a beer tasting in one of the many breweries – what beats a local German beer? Throw in the Christmas lights and decorations that brighten up the streets in December, and you’ll find this city absolutely charming.
• Take in the views of the Wachau Valley – a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Let’s not forget that the whole point of river cruising is to enjoy the views from the cruise ship. As you travel down The Danube, you will come across the beautiful scenery of the Wachau Valley – named a UNESCO world heritage site for its agricultural and architectural history. The region is known for wine-making so why not taste some local wines with dinner and pray for some snow to fall? This picturesque landscape is even more beautiful when covered in white, so let’s hope it’s a cold winter!
• Fall in love with Vienna’s charm.
Vienna is one of the most romantic cities in the world and when it’s Christmas time, the city is even more dreamy. Visit one of the many Christmas Markets, view the giant chandelier Christmas lights that line the streets or get tickets to one of the festive advent concerts – because you can’t go to Vienna without listening to some classical music! The city comes alive with smells of gingerbread and mulled wine at every corner. It’s clear that the city loves Christmas and you will love it too.
Are you excited to book your Christmas River Cruise? Get in contact today by emailing Deborah@lloydstravel.com or your favourite Lloyds Travel Agent and we will find you the best Christmas River Cruise Itinerary!
Written by Hannah Poaros