Welcome to Budapest, the capital of Hungary and the perfect introduction to Eastern Europe. You will be met at the airport in Hungary and taken to your centrally-located hotel, with a two-night stay included in your itinerary.

From fairy lights to wooden ornaments, from spiced mulled wine to roasted chimney cake, Budapest is a wonderfully festive place to celebrate the Christmas holidays. Today, you will enjoy a guided coach tour of the storied capital of Hungary. The rest of the day is yours to explore at leisure, perhaps crossing the Chain Bridge to see how the city differs in Buda and Pest or stopping to some Christmas markets and try some delightful Hungarian treats.

Included Excursion
A guided coach tour of Budapest

After breakfast, you will be transferred from your hotel to your contemporary Emerald Cruises Star-Ship. This evening, join your fellow guests for a dinner on board.

Budapest is Eastern Europe’s liveliest and most cosmopolitan city. Enjoy a guided tour of the city sightscovering some of the highlights of Budapest and learn more about its stunning landscape and architecture. The history of the Hungarian capital shows a unique blend of cultures, cuisine and vibrant lifestyle. There is so much to take in while you pass through the bustling city, which is an attractive destination for visitors from all over the world. During your free time, stroll the Christmas market on Budapest’s main square near Váci Utca Street, which showcases Hungarian craft products such as glass blowing, knitting, wood carving, candle making, pottery, leather trade, traditional Hungarian embroidery and lace work among others. This afternoon you will depart for your next capital on the Danube, Bratislava.

EmeraldPLUS
Dinner & folklore show in Budapest

Included Excursion
Guided coach tour of Budapest

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Excursion to Szentendre (extra expense)

Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia, is situated in a wonderful location between the Carpathians and the Alps, just a few kilometres from Vienna. Pre-Christmas time in Bratislava is intrinsically connected with glowing streets, warm holiday spirit, traditional dishes, and yuletide drinks. Enjoy a sightseeing tour including the enchanting Old City with its Town Hall, Mirbach Palace, and the Gothic Cathedral of St Martin. Alternatively, join an active guided hike to Bratislava Castle. Bratislava also has many charming Christmas markets throughout the city for you to enjoy. The main Christmas Market is located at the Main Square and Hviezdoslav Square, but there are plenty of smaller ones in the city centre as well, such as the square in front of the Eurovea shopping centre. Whichever market you venture into, the irresistible scents and unique festive atmosphere will capture your attention for sure!

EmeraldPLUS
Local Slovakian Entertainment on board

EmeraldPLUS
Christmas traditions in Europe (on board presentation)

Included Excursion
Walking tour of Bratislava

During the holiday season, Vienna's most charming squares transform into magical Christmas markets. The delightful aroma of Christmas cookies baking, hot punch, and roasted chestnuts allure many visitors this time of the year. The Old City and shopping streets are decorated with festive lights that create a whimsical atmosphere in Vienna.

Today, explore Austria’s capital beginning with a drive along the Ringstrasse, where you’ll see some of Vienna’s world-famous sights such as the Opera House, Burgtheater, Town Hall, St. Stephen’s Cathedral, and the Hofburg Imperial Palace. Then, you’ll have ample free time to sample the wonderful tastes of Vienna’s Christmas markets, such sumptious Käsekrainer sausage, sweet donuts, salty pretzels, and Kartoffelpuffer - a savoury potato pancake.

As we stay overnight in Vienna, you’ll have plenty of time to discover the Viennese markets during the late afternoon hours while the magical Christmas atmosphere s settles in. In the evening, you’re invited to join us for an awe-inspiring optional visit to enjoy the delights of a Viennese concert.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Vienna

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Visit to Schönbrunn Palace (extra expense)

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Viennese evening concert (extra expense)

After breakfast, disembark your Star-Ship to be transferred to Prague, home to some of the world’s most pristine collections of architecture from across the ages. Included is a comfortable two-night stay in the city.

The centre of Prague is a true delight, where some of Europe’s most pristine collections of architecture from across the ages can be found. After passing through three castle courtyards, you will visit St. Vitus Cathedral, then we walk down the Castle steps with a wonderful view over the city of Prague and  we continue to Charles Bridge which we cross to reach the Old Town of Prague. We finish the city sightseeing tour in front of the famous Astronomical Clock at Old Town Square.

Included Excursion
A guided tour of Prague

EmeraldPLUS
Coffee & Cake at Lobkowicz Palace

After breakfast, it is time to bid farewell to your fellow guests and leave Prague’s idyllic centre for your transfer to the airport, taking memories of ancient wonders and idyllic panoramic views of UNESCO World Heritage-listed areas with you.