Low Deposits
Free Monthly Payments
99% Customer Satisfaction
UK's Largest Independent Travel Agent
Featured Deal Types

Christmas Markets on the Danube

Scenic Cruises Scenic Pearl
Date 16th Dec 26
Nights 7 Nights
1
Munich – Passau
Welcome to Munich, where you will be greeted by one of our Emerald Cruises representatives and transferred to your contemporary Star-Ship in Passau. A warm welcome awaits you from the captain and crew, and this evening, you’ll join your fellow guests for dinner on board
2
Passau
Embark on a guided tour to Passau. Explore its beautiful historic center, featuring charming baroque buildings, stunning riverside views, and narrow cobblestone streets, all infused with the aroma of freshly baked gingerbread. This important historic trading center, known as the City of Three Rivers—where three of Europe’s main waterways converge—borders Austria and showcases a distinctive blend of cultures. You can enjoy the magical ambience in the St. Stephen Cathedral with its special organ concert or wander through the Christmas market of Passau right in front of the St. Stephan’s Cathedral and discover the unique Bavarian delicacies. Back on board your Star-Ship, enjoy a live local entertainment showcasing typical Bavarian tradition.
3
Linz
Today you will be docked in Linz, the capital of Upper Austria and Austria’s third biggest city after Vienna and Graz. During your walking tour, you will have the chance to see the historical old town with a mix of baroque and Renaissance architecture. Hand-carved nativity scenes are on display in many of its churches, making for a serene and contemplative Christmas experience. A festive day for the senses, as you end with a Linzer torte tasting – the local delicacy that will add flavor to your Christmas time memories of this old Austrian town."
4
Dürnstein
Today, enjoy a morning sailing on your Star-Ship as it sails through the fascinating Wachau Valley, part of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Wachau Cultural Landscape. This afternoon, embark on a guided tour of Göttweig Abbey, a true treasure overlooking the valley from a hill covered by vineyards and forests. Built in 1083, it’s one of Austria's most important Benedictine abbeys, attracting visitors from around the globe. Run by a community of about 45 monks, it’s visible from a great distance and provides epic panoramas from the grounds. As part of the tour you get to taste the delightful Göttweig wine, which is a tradition well kept by the monks throughout centuries."
5
Vienna
Sweeping boulevards and world-famous art exhibitions welcome you to Vienna, a city perfectly encapsulating the extravagance of the Habsburg Monarchy and their love of ornate Baroque palaces. For art lovers, there is no place like the Austrian capital, not just because the city is bursting with museums and artwork, but because of the variety. Your tour will include a visit to the Kunsthistorisches Museum, the largest art museum in the country and one of the most important museums worldwide.
6
Bratislava
Today, enjoy learning about Slovakia as we take you into the heart of Bratislava, a capital where cultures sit side-by-side. A sightseeing tour of the city will introduce you to its architectural wonders, including the Gothic St. Martin’s Cathedral and the neo-Renaissance Slovak National Theatre. The Christmas markets showcase handcrafted souvenirs and traditional Christmas treats, a true seasonal delight.
7
Budapest
Offering an abundance of historical whimsy, Budapest is known for its architectural diversity and famed monuments that pepper both sides of the Danube. This UNESCO World Heritage-listed city is a true delight at Christmas, when the locals take to 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. This evening, an on board traditional Hungarian folklore show is certain to delight.
8
Budapest
After breakfast, it’s time to say farewell to your fellow guests. Disembark your Star-Ship for your transfer to the airport and take memories of Christmas stalls and crisp winter mornings with you.
Why Book
Why Book
  • Riviera Deck, Stateroom From £2,638pp
  • Vista Deck, Balcony Suite from £3,641pp 
  •  7 nights on board an Emerald Cruises Star-Ship
  • Airport transfers to and from your Star-Ship
  • The services of an Emerald Cruises cruise director
  • Port taxes and charges
  • All tipping and gratuities
  • Guided tour of Passau
  • Vienna art tour with a visit to the Kunsthistorisches Museum
  • Walking tour of Bratislava
  • Guided coach tour of Budapest
  • Traditional Bavarian band on board
  • Göttweig Abbey with wine tasting
  • Home-hosted coffee and cake with a Slovakian family
  • Traditional Hungarian folklore show on board
  • 20 delectable meals including 7 breakfasts (B), 6 lunches (L), 7 dinners (D)
  • Including a Welcome and Farewell Reception & Dinner
  • Complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks served with lunch and dinner on board

Get in touch now to book this deal or make an enquiry

Background
Scenic Pearl
Overview
Scenic Pearl joined Scenic Cruises' innovative 'Space-Ships' fleet in 2011. Setting sail with just 167 guests and 53 crew members on board; you'll experience an intimate and friendly ambiance on board and also personalised service thanks to the impressive 3:1 guest to crew ratio. Scenic Pearl's streamlined and slender design means she can take you to the heart of Europe's famous cities and ports; where you can join an organised excursion or see the sights at your own pace on foot or by E-bike. Unpack and settle into your luxurious stateroom or suite; complete with complimentary minibar and high-speed Wi-Fi Internet access, individual climate control, 32-inch Samsung HD-TV, and well-fitted bathroom. Explore the four decks - from the Sun Deck with alfresco seating and Diamond Deck with its panoramic views, to Sapphire Deck with its myriad of eateries and the idyllic wellness area on Jewel Deck.
Scenic Pearl
Scenic Pearl - Crystal Dining Scenic Pearl - Crystal Dining Scenic Pearl - Crystal Dining Scenic Pearl - Portobellos Scenic Pearl - Portobellos Scenic Pearl - Portobellos Scenic Pearl - Portobellos Scenic Pearl - Table La Rive Scenic Pearl - Table La Rive Scenic Pearl - Table La Rive Scenic Pearl - Riverview Terrace Scenic Pearl - River Cafe Scenic Pearl - River Cafe Scenic Pearl - River Cafe Scenic Pearl - In-Suite Dining Scenic Pearl - In-Suite Dining Scenic Pearl - In-Suite Dining
Food & Drink

Scenic Space-Ships feature up to five dining venues and our culinary team creates dishes inspired by the regional cuisines of the countries you cruise through. Whether it’s a three-course meal at Crystal Dining, a casual snack at River Café, or dining in the privacy of your suite, there is something for every palate and mood.

An impressive selection of dining options is on offer for you as our highly trained chefs create delectable dishes on board. From relaxed to fine dining, you’ll savour the very best of the local regions in Europe and South East Asia, while enjoying premium international beverages on board.

Entertainment

When you board a Scenic Space-Ship, you’ll unpack your bags and settle into your spacious and luxurious suite. Spend your days exploring the abundant spaces with multiple dining experiences, bars and lounges. Marvel at the panorama of Europe’s captivating waterways passing by.

Scenic Pearl - Panorama Lounge & Bar Scenic Pearl - Panorama Lounge & Bar Scenic Pearl - Panorama Lounge & Bar Scenic Pearl - The Sun Deck Scenic Pearl - The Sun Deck Scenic Pearl - Reception Scenic Pearl - All Inclusive Beverages
Scenic Pearl - Wellness Area Scenic Pearl - Wellness Area Scenic Pearl - Wellness Area Scenic Pearl - Salt Therapy Lounge Scenic Pearl - Fitness Centre Scenic Pearl - Vitality Pool
Health & Fitness

Our Scenic Space-Ships in Europe and Scenic Spirit on the Mekong River feature a sophisticated range of spaces designed for you to relax, indulge and rejuvenate. You can tailor every moment on board to your wellness needs. Whether that’s a spa treatment*, a workout in the gym, a dip in the Vitality Pool^ or a therapeutic visit to the Salt Therapy Lounge. 

Kids & Teens

Please note: the ship does not have any specific facilities to accommodate Kids/Teens.

Terms & Conditions
Advertised offers are based on 2 adults sharing the lowest category stateroom/cabin/suite unless otherwise stated. Single supplements may apply. Offers are subject to availability and can change without any prior notice and may go up or down in price. Cruise Line campaign(s) and saving messages are strictly controlled by the Cruise Line(s) and are subject to change or be withdrawn without notice. Flight inclusive packages, where promoted, are based on the cheapest UK departure airport so please ask for further details. Advertised hotels, if any, are suggested however are changeable at a possible additional cost.  All prices and port itineraries are correct at the time of print but are subject to change by the Cruise Line(s) without prior notice. Hays Travel reserves the right to correct any errors or omissions in this brochure. Some ports of call may be tendered whereas vessels drop anchor a short distance away and use small boats to reach the shore. Full board to all-inclusive inclusions vary by the Cruise Line(s) and restrictions may apply. Some onboard facilities and items may incur a charge. Select destinations may require travel authorisation for visa-exempt travellers to be completed prior to travelling. Hays Travel LTD excepts no responsibility or compensation for any incomplete forms or declined entries from the respective country or countries that the individual(s) are visiting.
Christmas Markets on the Danube
Scenic Pearl
16th Dec 26
7 Nights
From
£2,638PP
Terms of Business Privacy Notice Copyright © Hays Travel 2026
ABTA Payment Types