Danube ChristmasMarkets RiverCruise
Hungary, Austria & Slovakia
From
$1729
$1729
4 nights in Austria and Hungary & Slovakia
What to expect
Cruise Three Countries
Drop anchor in Austria, Hungary & Slovakia
All Inclusive Package
Meals, drinks with meals & your own cabin with panoramic views
Explore Christmas Markets
Including Vienna, Budapest & Bratislava
Sample Street Food in Budapest
Enjoy some street food whilst exploring the market
About this trip...
Join us for an unforgettable river cruise in the heart of the major capitals along the Danube River and discover the most enchanting Christmas markets in Europe. Stroll through beautiful squares and enchanting Christmas markets in Vienna, enjoying the scents of mulled wine and gingerbread perfuming the aisles between the wooden cabins. You can also visit the Christmas markets of Bratislava and Budapest where the local artisanship and culinary delights will bring the magic of Christmas alive. Book Early to Avoid Flight Supplements
Activity Level:
What's this?What's Included
Airport Transfers to/from Vienna International Airport 
Main Deck Sole Occupancy Cabin
All meals included - Drinks included with meals and at the bar
Official welcome from the captain and crew
Accompanying Solos Tour Leader
Fully Financially Protected
What's extra:
What’s Extra:
- Cabin upgrades – prices available on request
- Shore Excursions
- Insurance click here
Itinerary
- Vienna
- Vienna - Budapest, Hungary
- Budapest, Hungary
- Bratislava, Slovakia
- Vienna
WHAT YOU WILL BE DOING
Day One: Arrival into Vienna
Arrive into Vienna International Airport (VIE) and transfer to MS Vivaldi. Passengers are welcome to board the ship at 6:00pm. After comfortably settling into your cabin, there will be a Welcome Cocktail where you will be introduced to our crew and fellow Solos guests, followed by dinner. We will stay docked in Vienna this evening.
Day Two: Explore Vienna & cruise to Budapest
Join us for an optional guided tour of Vienna, passing through the Christmas market in front of the city hall. The afternoon will be spent cruising towards Budapest.
- Full Board
Vienna Excursion:You will begin the tour by taking the famous Ring, which was one of the personal projects of Emperor Franz Joseph. In 1857, he decided to take down the ramparts that enclosed the city centre and had this boulevard lined with fine buildings.
Along the Ring you will admire this architectural showcase of the old Austro-Hungarian monarchy, including: the State Opera, the Hofburg Palace, the Natural History Museum, the City Hall, the Burgtheater and more. At the end of the visit, we'll return to the square in front of the city hall and take advantage of some free time to discover the traditional Vienna Magic of Advent market. Some 150 small chalets offer fine gifts and Christmas decorations for all ages, while the lights of the trees around the park shine brightly into the night.
Enjoy some roasted chestnuts and a cup of warm mulled wine while strolling through the festive market. PLEASE NOTE: The order of the visits can change. Times are approximate. Good walking shoes are recommended. Cost: $63 prior to departure - $70 on board
Day Three: Discover Budapest
Join us on an optional guided tour of Budapest. This amazing city is separated by the Danube into two entities - Buda on one side with its hills and valleys, and Pest on the other with its flat expanse offering an incredible panoramic view of the Danube that it was listed as a World Cultural Heritage Site by UNESCO. Enjoy some free time this afternoon. We'll start sailing towards Bratislava this evening as we enjoy onboard entertainment.
- Full Board
Budapest Excursion:In the company of our guides, we will leave for a panoramic tour of Budapest, the Pearl of the Danube. First we will head for the hills of Buda by crossing the Elizabeth Bridge and we will go up to the Castle quarter, from where we'll enjoy a fantastic panoramic view of the city. We will walk round the castle quarter and on to the Fisherman's Bastion, built in neo-Roman style in 1902 for the simple pleasure of offering a panoramic view over the city and the Danube. Behind the Bastion, we will find Matthias Church which notably was the venue for the coronation of Emperor Franz Joseph and his wife "Sissi".
Our coach will then take us down to the plains of Pest. There, we will visit Heroes' Square whose central monument depicting Prince Arpad and the chieftains of seven Magyar tribes was built for the millennium of Hungary. We will pass by the famous Szechenyi thermal baths, the zoo - a true piece of architecture - Vajdahunyad Castle and more. We will walk through the famous Andrassy Avenue and pass by St. Stephen's Basilica whose construction began in 1851 and was only completed in 1905. We will walk along the river and see the famous Parliament building overlooking the Danube with its white silhouette in the Byzantine and neo-Gothic styles. Return on board.
Our visit will end at Vörösmarty Square where we'll discover one of the oldest, richest and most spectacular of all the Christmas markets in Budapest - an old folk tale with its dozens of buzzing wooden market stalls and thousands of handmade gifts. Have a taste of the traditional cinnamon pastries (Kurtoskalacs - Chimney Cake), sausages, mulled wine, grilled vegetables, and street snacks like Langos and dodolle (potato dumplings). Following our tour, we'll return to the boat. PLEASE NOTE The order of the visits can change. Times are approximate. Good walking shoes are recommended. Cost: $51 prior to departure - $56 on board
Day Four: Venture to Bratislavia
The morning will be spent cruising, reaching Bratislava in the afternoon. Join us on an optional guided tour of the Slovakian capital and discover its Christmas market. Tonight is our gala dinner and evening. We'll start sailing towards Vienna in the evening.
- Full Board
Bratislava Excursion:Bratislava, before becoming the capital of independent Slovakia in 1993, was first of all the capital of Hungary from 1536 to 1784 under the name of Presburg. It then belonged to Czechoslovakia before becoming the capital of the "Slovak Socialist Republic" as part of Czechoslovakia between 1969 and 1992. With your guides, you will begin the visit with a panoramic tour of the city which will take you to Bratislava Castle, which dates from 1811, after the previous castle burned down, and from where you will enjoy a breathtaking view over the Danube and the city.
The main historical monuments are in the Old Town and the coach will drop you off at the entrance to the Old Town to continue the visit on foot. You will enter the city through Michael's Gate, which is the only gate still surviving from the Middle Ages. Then you will head for the central square surrounded by elegant buildings, some in Art Nouveau style, and dominated by the old Bratislava Town Hall. The tour will continue with the Primate's Palace completed in 1781 for Archbishop Jozef Bathyány. As you stroll through the streets, you may come across some of the amusing statues that are dotted around the capital. After the guided tour, you will have some free time to enjoy the Christmas market located in the Main Square in front of the City Hall.
We will return to the boat on foot or by coach depending on sailing times. PLEASE NOTE: The order of the visits can change. Times are approximate. Good walking shoes are recommended. Cost: $52 prior to departure - $65 on board
Day Five: Return to Vienna
We'll reach Vienna early this morning. Enjoying one last buffet breakfast on board, we disembark at 9.00am and transfer to the airport for our flight home. What an experience to go home with!
Trip Reviews
Accommodations
MS Vivaldi
The MS Vivaldi is named after one of the greatest virtuosos in the history of music, who notably composed 'The Four Seasons'. The ship sails on the Danube, and takes passengers to discover the many wonders offered by this romantic river.
The MS Vivaldi is a superb Premium ship, accommodating 176 passengers, in 88 cabins spread over three decks. Each cabin provides guests with all the comforts they need during their stay. The decoration is stylish and its atmosphere, both elegant and friendly, and in perfect harmony with its surroundings.
Located on the middle deck, the restaurant offers a delicate cuisine in a refined setting, where large bay windows allow guests to fully enjoy the panorama. Also situated on the middle deck is the lounge / bar with a dance floor, while a piano bar welcomes passengers on the upper deck, in an intimate and cosy atmosphere. Comfortable sun loungers are provided on the sun deck, with a large shaded area, the ideal place to relax and admire the surrounding landscapes.
Facilities include
Restaurant: Located on the middle deck, the restaurant is where all meals are served during your cruise. It seats all guests at tables which vary in size with a panoramic view. The atmosphere is casual but elegant.
Lounge Bar: The lounge tastefully decorated, is located at the front of the ship and offers panoramic views. Cocktails and games, dancing, and other forms of entertainment all happen here.
Sun Deck: Take advantage of the sun deck to relax! It is equipped with chairs and deckchairs, allowing you to cool off while enjoying a panoramic view of the magnificent landscapes.
Room includes
Amenities in your Cabin:
TV, Telephone (for internal calls only), Bathroom with shower and toilet, Towels, Safe, Independent air-conditioning, Electricity 220V, Wi-Fi.
Please note that there is no laundry service on board the ship.
Photo for illustration purposes and may not be cabin allocated.
Dates & Prices
Essential Information
What Your On Board Package Includes
To ensure the enjoyment of your cruise, CroisiEurope has opted for the 'fully inclusive' package which includes a number of advantages in the cruise prices: Accommodation in double cabins ; Full Board Cruise from lunch or dinner on day 1 to breakfast buffet or lunch on the last day (depending on the chosen cruise programme).
All our meals are served in one service. Breakfast is buffet style, and lunch and dinner are served at the table. Drinks (unless stated otherwise in the cruise program, under "These prices do not include".) The drinks included in the package are those provided by CroisiEurope and consumed as part of the meals taken aboard the boat, as well as in the bar (with the exception of the special bar card and wine list).
Meal Schedule:
- Breakfast: Typically served from 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 a.m., sometimes starting at 7:00 a.m., depending on the itinerary.
- Lunch: Usually served around noon.
- Dinner: Typically served at 7:30 p.m.
Important Notes:
- Flexibility:
Dining times can be adjusted slightly to accommodate excursions or other activities.
- All-inclusive:
Meals, drinks during meals, and drinks at the bar are generally included in the cruise price.
- One Service:
The dining room can accommodate all passengers at the same time, so there's just one seating for lunch and dinner.
- Menu:
Lunch and dinner menus are usually published at the reception area, and alternative dishes can often be arranged.
WI-FI access; Port taxes.
On Board Assistance
If there is no Solos Host on board you will be looked by the onboard multi-lingual host/hostess
Language's on Board
Official languages on board : French and English.
Embarkation/Disembarkation
Boarding and check-in on the ship will be indicated on your boarding pass provided in your travel log (after booking). We ask that you respect this schedule. The ship itself is held to respect the schedules of navigation envisaged for the route, in order to respect the program of navigation throughout the cruise. If you arrive earlier in the day, you can generally leave most of your luggage on board our ships.
Your agent can also inform our ships that you will be arriving earlier, when booking. At the end of the cruise, the landing is usually scheduled for 9:00 am for all passengers. In the event that we are responsible for your transfer to the airport, we will ensure that you arrive in time for your flight and connections. At the end of the cruise, the landing is usually scheduled for 9:00 am for all passengers.
In the event that we are responsible for your transfer to the airport, we will ensure that you arrive in time for your flight and connections.
How to pay on board?
CroisiEurope only accepts euros on board the boats. We do not accept sterling, US dollars or any other currency. We do not accept travelers checks on board. Make sure you get euros before boarding, which will allow you to pay for all your purchases.
CroisiEurope accepts American Express, Visa and MasterCard. You may wish to contact your bank or the company that issued your credit card to warn them that you are departing on holiday.
Special Diets and Allergies
Please inform us at the time of your booking whether you require a special diet or suffer from allergies. We can then inform CroisiEurope.
Gala Evening: a tradition and a must!
The gala evening is a long-awaited tradition in the world of cruising. This is the night we like to dress up, although no dress code is imposed. The crew all in their dress uniform, are presented to the passengers who are invited have a pre-dinner drink with the captain in the company of the purser, and the head chef.
That evening, the chef serves a banquet paying a special tribute to the world of French gastronomy and the experience of CroisiEurope’s chefs in these matters. Dancing follows this gala dinner in the lounge bar.
Wi-Fi on Board: Stay connected
All the company's European fleet are equipped with free Wi-Fi for passengers. This internet connection is available in all lounges / bars and receptions. The Wi-Fi is free to use.
For passengers who do not have computer equipment, we have equipped each boat with a touch pad that can be lent to them when needed.
Dress Code
During the day, you will be more comfortable in a casual outfit. We advise you to bring clothes that do not wrinkle, or that can easily be transported because there are no ironing facilities on board our fleet. Remember to dress according to the weather, the season and the environment of your cruise e.g light suits and swimsuits for warm weather; sweater or jacket for cooler weather; sweatshirt, rain gear and small umbrella.
Do not forget to bring comfortable walking shoes in your suitcase. They will be very useful during excursions! Regarding dinners, cocktails and galas, it is advisable to dress up a little more without the need, for gentlemen, necessarily to wear a jacket and tie. Finally, on any excursion, when you visit places of worship, make sure to opt for an appropriate outfit, neither too light nor too undressed, so as not to be prohibited entry.
Gratuities
Tipping habits vary from country and culture. At CroisiEurope, they are collected centrally in a box at reception at the end of the stay and shared equally between all members of the crew. This token from our passengers shows that they appreciated the quality of the services and the attention they received during the cruise at all levels. How much should I leave? A tip between £5 and £10 per day per person is an average, but each passenger is, of course, free to give what they want.
An envelope is deposited for this purpose in your cabin during your last evening on board. Slip it in the box provided for this purpose at the reception before disembarking.
Safety on Board
All our ships are certified Bureau Veritas.
Life jackets and life buoy are located in your cabins as well as on the sun deck.
During the presentation of the crew, all safety instructions will be provided.
For safety reasons, it is forbidden to smoke on board any of our fleet as it is a closed environment. However, smokers are invited to go to the sun deck, where ashtrays are provided.
What's Not Included
Drinks from the special lists, or drinks ordered during excursions or transfers - cancellation and baggage insurance - optional excursions (must be reserved and paid for on board or at travel agency) - personal expenses - the concert of Viennese music.
What is Included
Your cruise with all meals from dinner the first evening to breakfast on the final day - onboard drinks included (except for drinks from speciality lists) - sole-occupancy cabin with shower in bathroom - assistance from the onboard multi-lingual host/hostess - welcome cocktail - gala dinner - onboard entertainment - travel assistance and repatriation insurance - all port fees.
Shore Excursions
Excursions can be booked at the time of booking the cruise, until up to one week before departure or on board the boat. Reservations made before the departure of a package of complete excursions or ‘excursions à la carte’ are at a discounted price compared to reservations made on board. It is possible to choose between two excursion formulas according to the tastes and desires: the "classic package" or the "discovery" package".
In the discovery package all the excursions are brand new and give a different and more energized point of view on the proposed destinations. If the classics are rather "piano", the dynamics are "allegro" with unusual visits. These excursions although sportier still remain accessible to the greatest number of passengers. However, all discoveries are customizable.
Each passenger is free to choose one or the other formula when booking before or during the cruise and can mix "classic" and "discovery" for the excursions ‘à la carte’ only.
Travel Requirements
To travel with CroisiEurope you will need to bring a valid national identity card or passport. Depending on the destination, make sure you have an up-to-date passport. This must be valid for at least six months after the date of your landing. Visas may be necessary for distant destinations.
From the 12th October 2025 the EU is introducing a new European Entry System (EES) that will be phased in and fully operational by the 10th April 2026. Non-EU nationals including British passport holders will now be required to complete biometric checks on arrival and exit to Schengen countries, which will include facial recognition and fingerprints. There is no cost for this, and no action needs to be taken prior to departure.
Medical Requirements
All passengers shall ensure that they are medically and physically fit to undertake a trip. No medical services are offered aboard the ship.
Reduced mobility: adapted cabins
CroisiEurope welcomes passengers with reduced mobility and endeavors to facilitate their access to both the facilities on board and on the available excursions. Before booking, the company requires passengers with reduced mobility to mention their specific needs. People with reduced mobility or have trouble getting around can benefit from adapted cabins.
Our ships with 2 decks, meanwhile, are well thought-out in terms of layout, so common facilities (restaurant, lounge bar, reception) on one level: the main deck, which also has cabins. Some of our excursions can cause difficulties for people with reduced mobility (walking for several hours, destabilizing floor coverings, elevation, etc.), participation in some excursions and travel is subject to the sufficient mobility of the passenger. With the help of https://www.specialneedsatsea.com/ we may be able to arrange further assistance on request.
Electric Voltage
The voltage on board is 220V.
Cabins
All cabins are located above the water level and offer panoramic views of the landscape thanks to large windows or portholes (depending on the boat or deck.)
They are all equipped with toilet, shower and washbasin. Towels, shower gel and shampoo are provided.
Very comfortable, they have many amenities: flat screen television, hairdryer, safe and plenty of storage space.
Depending on the the ship, our cabins have 2 twin beds, a large bed or 2 separable beds.
Our cabins are air conditioned and have a thermostat to adjust the temperature of heating and air conditioning.
Flights
Whether you'd like us to arrange your flights or prefer to book your own, we're here to make the process easy. Our team can secure flights from the location that suits you best, or provide all the arrival and departure details you'll need if booking independently.
Travel Insurance
We strongly recommend purchasing travel insurance before any trip — it safeguards you against unexpected issues like illness, cancellations, or lost luggage. It also protects your health and travel investment, giving you peace of mind to fully enjoy your journey. Click here. to learn more.
WhatsApp Group
Shortly before your holiday, you will be invited to join an optional WhatsApp group to connect with your fellow travellers and your Tour Leader.
Currency
The Hungarian Florint is the official currency.
Passport, Visa & Entry Requirements
We recommend that you check passport and visa requirements for the country you are visiting at the State Department if you have a U.S. Passport. Most countries require that your passport have at least six months validity when traveling internationally, and many require that you have one to two blank visa pages for either an entry stamp or visa. As a general rule, please check that your passport has six months validity beyond your planned trip, and if not, please renew your passport with plenty of time to provide Solos with your updated passport information by the final payment due date.
Not sure what travel documents you need? Our trusted partner, sherpa°, makes it easy to check visa and entry requirements based on your destination and passport. One quick check now means smooth sailing later. Click here to learn more.
Health Requirements
We recommend that you check if vaccinations are required for your destination at the CDC’s recommendations for your visited destination(s). We also recommend you purchase travel protection. A travel protection plan can often assist with medical emergencies and reimburse costs that are covered by the plan. Please verify coverage details with Solos before you travel.
Currency
Euro
Passports and visas
We recommend that you check passport and visa requirements for the country you are visiting at the State Department if you have a U.S. Passport. Most countries require that your passport have at least six months validity when traveling internationally, and many require that you have one to two blank visa pages for either an entry stamp or visa. As a general rule, please check that your passport has six months validity beyond your planned trip, and if not, please renew your passport with plenty of time to provide Solos with your updated passport information by the final payment due date.
Not sure what travel documents you need? Our trusted partner, sherpa°, makes it easy to check visa and entry requirements based on your destination and passport. One quick check now means smooth sailing later. Click here to learn more.
Health requirements
We recommend that you check if vaccinations are required for your destination at the CDC’s recommendations for your visited destination(s). We also recommend you purchase travel protection. A travel protection plan can often assist with medical emergencies and reimburse costs that are covered by the plan. Please verify coverage details with Solos before you travel.
Essential Details
It is important to consider whether this holiday is suitable for your level of fitness, mobility, and any medical conditions. We are committed to making reasonable adjustments wherever possible. Please tell us about any disability, medical condition, or additional requirements before booking so we can assess whether we can safely and appropriately accommodate your needs. If you are unsure whether this holiday is suitable for you, please contact us before booking. We will be happy to discuss the holiday requirements and your individual circumstances.
