Published itinerary
Christmas Markets on the Danube
Passau ↔ Budapest (Munich transfer) · 7 nights / 8 days · Late Nov – Dec · 2026 & 2027
The sailing
Christmas Markets on the Danube
Emerald's current EWXD itinerary is seven nights between Passau and Budapest, with a Munich transfer. It visits Linz, Melk, Dürnstein, Vienna, and Bratislava. Included touring and gratuities are part of the published program; optional experiences and additional drinks can cost extra.
Route reference checked 2026-10-12. Ships, excursions, and direction can vary by departure.
Best for travelers who want a contemporary ship with included touring and are comparing total trip cost.
Trip highlights
- Passau and Linz
- Melk and Dürnstein
- Vienna and Bratislava
- Budapest
What's included
- Included guided touring and EmeraldPLUS experiences
- Wine, beer & soft drinks with lunch/dinner
- Onboard gratuities
- Port taxes and charges
Quick facts
- Route
- Passau ↔ Budapest (Munich transfer)
- Length
- 7 nights · 8 days
- Departures
- Late Nov – Dec · 2026 & 2027 — ask us for current dates & availability
- Cruise line
- Emerald Cruises
- Ship
- Emerald Star-Ship varies by departure
- 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
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
ExploreSlovakia
Bratislava
Bratislava's old town hosts three compact Christmas markets — Hlavné námestie, Hviezdoslavovo námestie, and the castle — between Vienna and Budapest.
Typical season: Late Nov – Dec 22
ExploreHungary
Budapest
Budapest's Vörösmarty Square and Advent Basilica markets anchor a dramatic Danube finale, with the illuminated Parliament and riverfront adding a separate evening highlight.
Typical season: Mid-Nov – Jan 1
ExploreMore 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
Magna on 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 live pricing, check whether a cabin hold is available, and walk you through the inclusions. No added VPC planning fee.