Christmas Markets River Cruise

FRIDAY 11 DECEMBER

Meet your tour leader at Malta International airport for your direct flight to Vienna. Upon arrival, transfer to your river cruise ship, MV Vivaldi, moored along Vienna’s riverfront, in time for dinner and overnight accommodation.  The ship will remain berthed in Vienna overnight.

SATURDAY 12 DECEMBER

Today you are invited to join an optional guided tour of Vienna. Board your private coach and enjoy a drive along the Ringstrasse, Vienna’s grand boulevard, passing iconic landmarks such as the State Opera, the Hofburg Palace and more.  The tour concludes at City Hall, where you will have free time to experience the magical atmosphere of Vienna’s advent market.  Around 150 charming wooden chalets offer Christmas de3corations and unique gifts for all ages. Savour roasted chestnuts and a cup of warm mulled wine as you stroll through the festive market. Return to the ship for lunch before spending the afternoon cruising towards Budapest.

SUNDAY 13 DECEMBER

After breakfast, enjoy an optional panoramic tour of Budapest.  The tour begins on the Buda side, crossing one of the city’s iconic bridges and ascending Castle Hill. Admire breathtaking views from the Royal Palace area and see the seven towered Fisherman’s bastion.  Continue to Pest, the city’s modern and flatter side. Passing Heroes Square, the Széchenyi Thermal Baths, the Zoo, and Vajdahunyad Castle.  The drive continues along elegant Andrassy Avenue, offering views of St. Stephen’s Basilica and the impressive Hungarian Parliament building.  The tour concludes at Vorosmarty Square, home to one of Budapest’s oldest and most spectacular Christmas markets.  Discover a fairy-tale setting filled with wooden stalls offering thousands of handmade gifts.  Sample traditional cinnamon pastries, sausages, mulled wine, and popular street snacks such as langos.  Later in the evening, return to the ship and sail towards Bratislava while enjoying onboard entertainment.

MONDAY 14 DECEMBER

Breakfast will be served while sailing along the the beautiful Danube en-route to Bratislava. Shortly after lunch, an optional panoramic tour takes you to Bratislava Castle (outside visit), offering stunning views over the Danube River.  Continue through the Old Town via the preserved Michael’s Gate, walking to the main square with its elegant buildings and Old Town Hall.  The tour also includes an outside visit to the Primate’s Palace.  After the tour, enjoy ample free time to explore the Christmas market located in the main square in front of the City Hall.  Return to the ship for a Gala Dinner as the cruise continues back towards Vienna.

TUESDAY 15 DECEMBER

After a final buffet breakfast on board, disembark in Vienna.  Your private coach will take to visit the traditional Christmas Markets in Vienna before transferring to the airport in time for your return flight to Malta.