Published itinerary
Christmastime on the Danube
Nuremberg ↔ Vienna · 6 nights / 7 days · Nov–Dec · 2026 cabins checked Nov 7; 2027 planning also available
The sailing
Christmastime on the Danube
Avalon's six-night Christmastime on the Danube links Nuremberg and Vienna through Regensburg, Passau, Melk, and the Wachau Valley. The line's Panorama Suites place the bed toward the river view, while Avalon Choice excursions give guests more than one way to explore on selected days.
Route reference checked 2026-11-07. Ships, excursions, and direction can vary by departure.
December 10, 2026 westbound on Avalon Visionary, Deluxe Stateroom, displayed November 7. Confirm current cabin, operating route and full fare before booking.
Best for travelers who want a shorter danube itinerary, a suite built around the view, and flexible included sightseeing.
Trip highlights
- Panorama Suites with Open-Air Balconies
- Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt
- Regensburg and Passau
- Wachau Valley and Vienna
- Both directions offered
What's included
- Avalon Choice sightseeing
- Wine & beer with lunch/dinner
- Soft drinks throughout the day
- Starlink Wi-Fi
- Bikes and e-bikes
Quick facts
- Route
- Nuremberg ↔ Vienna
- Length
- 6 nights · 7 days
- Departures
- Nov–Dec · 2026 cabins checked Nov 7; 2027 planning also available — ask us for current dates & availability
- Cruise line
- Avalon Waterways
- Ship
- Multiple Avalon Suite Ships
- River
- Danube
The ports of call
Market cities along the route
These guides cover selected ports, excursion cities, and endpoints—not a guaranteed market visit in every city. Check opening dates, transfers, excursion choices, and time ashore for your departure.
Germany
Nuremberg
The Christkindlesmarkt is one of Europe's best-known Christmas markets, centered on Nuremberg's Hauptmarkt and documented since the 1600s.
Typical season: Late Nov – Dec 24
ExploreGermany
Regensburg
Regensburg offers several different market experiences inside its UNESCO old town, from Neupfarrplatz to the ticketed Romantic Christmas Market at Thurn und Taxis Palace.
Typical season: Late Nov – Dec 23
ExploreGermany
Passau
Passau, where three rivers meet, concentrates its Christmas market in Cathedral Square, with selected Advent organ programs nearby.
Typical season: Late Nov – Dec 23
ExploreAustria
Melk
Melk Abbey, the baroque masterpiece above the Wachau Valley, hosts Advent markets and overlooks the most beautiful stretch of the Danube.
Typical season: Advent weekends
ExploreAustria
Vienna
Vienna hosts many distinct Christmas markets, from the large Rathausplatz and palace setting at Schönbrunn to the intimate lanes of Spittelberg.
Typical season: Mid-Nov – Dec 26
ExploreMore from this line
Other Avalon Waterways sailings
More on the Danube
Other Danube sailings
Same river, different line or different dates — see how the operators compare.
Danube Christmas Delights
Budapest ↔ Passau · 7n · Late Nov–Dec · select 2026–2028 departures
Request pricing
quote on request
Christmas Markets on the Danube
Budapest ↔ Vilshofen · 7n · Late Nov – Dec · 2026–2028
Request pricing
quote on request
Icons of the Danube — Christmas Markets
Budapest ↔ Vilshofen · 7n · Late Nov – Dec · 2026–2028
Request pricing
quote on request
Christmas Markets Along the Danube
Nuremberg ↔ Vienna · 7n · Late Nov – Dec · 2026 & 2027
Request pricing
quote on request
Ready to plan this voyage?
Tell us your dates and group — we'll confirm current pricing, check whether a cabin hold is available, and walk you through the inclusions. No added VPC planning fee.