Prague to Budapest & Christmas Time on the Danube: 9 days Prague to Budapest

Welcome to the Czech Republic and Prague, one of Europe's most magical cities. The enchanting Czech capital is especially renowned for its stunning Gothic and Baroque architecture. Upon arrival, you'll be met at the airport and transferred to your centrally located hotel in Prague for your included two-night stay. This evening, enjoy meeting your fellow guests and tour director for a convivial welcome drink.

Included Excursion
Guided city tour of Prague
The heart of Prague is an enchanting treasure trove, showcasing some of Europe’s finest and most well-preserved architectural marvels from various eras. On this guided tour of the city, begin your journey exploring three magnificent castle courtyards before stepping into the awe-inspiring St. Vitus Cathedral. From there, descend the Castle Steps, where breathtaking views of Prague unfold before your eyes. Next, you’ll stroll across the iconic Charles Bridge, leading to the charming Old Town. Your tour concludes at the legendary Astronomical Clock in the vibrant Old Town Square, leaving you captivated by Prague’s timeless beauty

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Coffee & Cake at Lobkowicz Palace
Enjoy a moment of indulgence at Lobkowicz Palace, one of the most significant cultural sites in the Czech Republic. Here, freshly-brewed coffee and delicate pastries are served against a backdrop of aristocratic charm and history.

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Tastes of Czechia (extra expense)
During this fascinating tour, you can learn all about the wonderful variety of Czech wines. A short walk from your hotel will take you through some of the city's interesting hidden corners, before arriving at a local restaurant. Meet your sommelier and enjoy a welcome drink of Czech sparkling wine, followed by a selection of red, white and Rosé wines; each is accompanied by traditional charcuterie and cheeses carefully selected to complement each glass.
Activity level: Easy, Duration: 2.5 hour

This morning, after breakfast, you'll depart your hotel in Prague and be transferred by coach to Austria, arriving in the magnificent capital, Vienna. Here, you'll board your luxury Emerald?Star-Ship.

This ornate cityscape was home to famous musicians and composers like Mozart and Beethoven, and the father of psychoanalysis, Sigmund Freud. At this time of year, its squares become enchanting Christmas markets filled with the aromas of cookies, hot punch and roasted chestnuts. The Old City and shopping streets sparkle with festive lights.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Vienna with Christmas markets
Explore the famous sights of the Ringstrasse and Vienna’s city centre by coach and on foot. Marvel at the Renaissance-style arches that adorn the façades of the Opera House, the Baroque Burgtheater and the Flemish Gothic Parliament before enjoying time to visit the Christmas markets on your own

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Visit to Schönbrunn Palace (extra expense)
Schönbrunn Palace, the former summer residence of the Habsburg Empire, is considered one of the most beautiful Baroque palaces in Europe. Today, it is a recognised World Heritage site for its historic importance, unique grounds and splendid furnishings. Follow a local expert to hear the fascinating tales of the intriguing former residents.
Activity level: Easy, Duration: 5 hours

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Viennese evening concert (extra expense)
With Mozart, Beethoven, Strauss and Schubert among its historical repertoire, Vienna is the world capital of opera and classical music. Enjoy an exclusive evening concert at one of Vienna’s most beautiful concert halls, with favourites such as the ‘Blue Danube Waltz’ and the ‘Radetzky March’. A complimentary glass of sparkling wine on arrival adds to the unforgettable occasion.
Activity level: Easy, Duration: 2.5 hours

Gothic architecture and fascinating tales of a Communist past welcome you to Bratislava, a capital that has seen much turbulence over the past century. Set at the crossroads of ancient trade routes, this is a place where Baroque palaces, boutiques and cafés adorn medieval cobblestone streets. The Christmas season adds an extra layer to the city, where a blend of distinctive cultures comes together to showcase their handcrafted ornaments and delicious treats.

Included Excursion
Walking tour of Bratislava with Christmas market
Enjoy a sightseeing tour including the enchanting Old City. Your local guide will take you through the heart of the city. Pass by the botanical gardens of the Episcopal Summer Palace, the Old Town Hall and its delightful Renaissance courtyard and the Slovak National Theatre, where busts of famous composers adorn the façade. After your tour, enjoy free time to explore the Christmas markets at leisure.

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Traditional Slovakian entertainment on board
Relax on board this evening as you are entertained by traditional musicians and performers.

Offering an abundance of historical whimsy, Budapest is known for its architectural diversity and famed monuments that pepper both sides of the Danube. This World Heritage-listed city is a true delight at Christmas, when it becomes a magical winter wonderland of decorations, lights and festive cheer. The locals soak in the city’s many thermal baths to beat the crisp chill of the season. Today, your guided coach tour will introduce you to Andrássy Avenue and the neo-Renaissance façades of the townhouses found there, as well as a generous scattering of Christmas decorations.

Included Excursion
Guided coach tour of Budapest with Christmas market
Enjoy a guided tour of the city with your local guide this morning. Explore the World Heritage-listed centre, travelling through the chapters of architecture through the ages from Romanesque to Baroque and classical façades. See the Liberty Statue, Heroes’ Square and the Buda Castle district, before a walking tour showcases Matthias Church and the Fisherman’s Bastion. Afterwards, explore the Christmas market.

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Excursion to Szentendre (extra expense)
Visit the picturesque village of Szentendre, where cobblestone streets evoke a Mediterranean atmosphere that has inspired many artists. Take a walking tour through the pedestrian city centre to admire the Baroque architecture, churches, colourful houses and narrow, cobbled streets. The main square, Fo Tér, and the alleyways around it are lined with art galleries, museums and shops.
Activity level: Moderate, Duration: 4 hours

This morning, after breakfast, disembark your luxury Emerald Star-Ship, and say goodbye to your fellow guests and friendly crew. You'll then be transferred to your centrally located accommodation in Budapest, where a two-night stay in the Hungarian capital is certain to delight. A vibrant and cosmopolitan city, Budapest is split by the Danube River, with the Buda and Pest districts linked by the iconic Chain Bridge, offering stunning views. From fairy lights to wooden ornaments, from spiced mulled wine to roasted chimney cake, Budapest is additionally a wonderful place to celebrate the Christmas holidays. This evening, enjoy meeting your fellow guests and tour director for a welcome drink.

Included Excursion
Guided tour of Budapest
Enjoy a guided tour of this enthralling city, touching on its two distinctive faces. Offering an abundance of European history, Budapest is renowned for its charming neo-Gothic architecture, whimsical cultural elements and historic monuments literally around every corner. Relax as a drive down Andrássy Avenue showcases the decorative façades of neo-Renaissance townhouses and journey to Heroes' Square to see the seven chieftains of the Magyars, as well as the historic Castle District.

Today, the storied capital of Hungary is yours to explore at leisure, perhaps crossing the 19th-century Chain Bridge to see how the city differs in the historic Buda and Pest districts, or stopping off at some of the atmospheric Christmas markets to sample some Hungarian festive treats.

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Tastes of Hungary
Embark on a flavourful journey through Budapest’s vibrant culinary scene, where tradition meets indulgence. Today’s tasting tour invites you to sample iconic Hungarian dishes, such as rich goulash, crispy lángos topped with sour cream and cheese, and sweet chimney cake, fresh from the oven. Sip on the fiery fruit brandy pálinka as you explore bustling markets and hidden eateries, guided by a local expert who brings Hungary’s culinary heritage to life with every bite.
Activity level: Easy, Duration: 1.5 hours

This morning, after breakfast, it's time to bid farewell to your fellow guests as you leave your centrally located accommodation for your transfer to the airport, leaving with cherished memories of historic gems, festive markets and the tantalising flavours of Budapest.

This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions for further information.