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Danube Christmas Markets Cruise with The Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce

Enjoy an elegant river cruise along the Danube through Austria, Hungary and Slovakia, immersing yourself in the magic of Europe’s finest Christmas markets!

Book Now!
Price From
$4479
Price Per Day
$498
Duration
9 Days
Ratings
5/5
Avg. Group Size
16
Comfort Level
EASY Icon Easy Tours are accessible for all travelers. There will be limited periods of standing or walking during sightseeing excursions as pre-booked transportation will take passengers between destinations.

About this tour

Experience the magic of Central Europe on this enchanting journey that combines Bavarian charm, imperial capitals, and a scenic Danube River cruise. Begin your adventure in Munich, the vibrant heart of Bavaria, where centuries-old traditions meet modern culture. From here, embark on a relaxing river cruise from Passau, sailing through some of Europe’s most picturesque landscapes and historic cities. Discover the timeless elegance of Vienna with its grand palaces, classical heritage, and festive Christmas markets, followed by the stunning architectural beauty and lively holiday atmosphere of Budapest. Continue to the charming Slovak capital of Bratislava, rich in medieval history and crowned by its majestic hilltop castle. In Melk, marvel at the magnificent Baroque Melk Monastery and enjoy a breathtaking cruise through the UNESCO-listed Wachau Valley, famed for its vineyards, castles, and riverside villages. Conclude your journey back in Munich, reflecting on unforgettable cultural experiences, scenic river views, and festive European traditions before returning home. This tour offers the perfect blend of history, culture, relaxation, and seasonal charm—an ideal way to explore the heart of Europe in comfort and style.

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07 NIGHTS
Standard Main Deck Cabin
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16 MEALS
Daily breakfast
Full Board Meal Plan on Cruise
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CRUISE
MS Viktoria
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FLIGHTS
International Flights Included

  • Overview
  • Price & Dates
  • Itinerary
  • Accommodation
  • Before You Book
  • FAQ
  • Book Now!

Danube Christmas Markets Cruise with The Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce Book Now!

STYLE

River Cruise

HIGHLIGHTS
  • Danube River cruise through Germany, Austria, Hungary & Slovakia
  • Visit Vienna and Budapest with festive Christmas Markets
  • Explore Bratislava and the iconic Melk Monastery
  • Scenic cruising through the UNESCO-listed Wachau Valley
  • Start and end your journey in Munich, Bavaria’s vibrant capital
INCLUSIONS
  • International roundtrip airfare from Cleveland
  • 5 nights accommodation on double occupancy basis in superior vessel
  • 2 nights at the hotel in Munich
  • Arrival and Departure transfers ( one group transfer each way)
  • Full board meal plan while on board cruise
  • 2 breakfasts at the hotel
  • Munich City tour with a licensed guide on Day 3
  • Visit of Burg Burghausen on the way from Passau to Munich
  • Welcome and farewell reception with the captain
  • Festive Gala Dinner
  • Midnight snacks depending on daily program
  • On board entertainment
  • Services of an experienced and Bilingual English/German tour manager
  • 1 checked in luggage (if the group is 15 people)
  • All air taxes
  • All Passenger fee and Port taxes, except city tax if applicable
EXCLUSIONS
  • Items of personal nature, tips and gratuities
  • Travel Insurance
  • Visa application & fees – if imposed by EU
  • City tax if applicable
  • All Items not mentioned as included

Danube Christmas Markets Cruise with The Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce

Prices are per person on a Twin/Double room sharing basis in Main Deck Cabin. Cabin upgrades to Middle & Upper Decks are available through the booking process.

Single Supplement is available from USD 899 per person

*$200 Early Bird Discount - if booked before March 30, 2026

Disclaimer: Kindly note that optional tours must be booked in advance to secure availability. Please be aware that optional tours booked on board are subject to availability and cannot be guaranteed.

Danube Christmas Markets Cruise with The Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce Book Now!

DAY 1 - CLEVELAND – MUNICH

Arrive in time at Cleveland Airport to check-in and board your flight to Munich. Enjoy inflight meals and services on board. 
Overnight on-board flight

DAY 2 - MUNICH ARRIVAL

Welcome to Munich. Munich, known as München in German, is a dynamic city located in southern Germany and the capital of Bavaria. With a rich history spanning over 850 years, Munich is famous for its stunning architecture, vibrant culture, and deep-rooted traditions. The city is home to iconic landmarks such as the Marienplatz, the Nymphenburg Palace, and the world-renowned Frauenkirche. Munich also boasts a thriving cultural scene with numerous museums, theaters, and events—including the famous Oktoberfest. As a major center for art, technology, finance, and education, Munich offers a blend of modern innovation and old-world charm. Its welcoming atmosphere, beautiful parks, and delicious Bavarian cuisine make it a beloved destination for visitors from around the world. Upon arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Rest of the day at leisure.
Overnight in Munich.

DAY 3 - MUNICH CITY TOUR & EMBARKATION IN PASSAU (B/-/D)

Enjoy breakfast before being picked up at 09:30 for a guided city tour of Munich by bus, showcasing the city’s most iconic landmarks and rich cultural heritage. Discover the highlights of Bavaria’s capital as you drive past its most iconic landmarks, including the historic Marienplatz, the majestic Nymphenburg Palace, the vibrant Viktualienmarkt, and the impressive Olympic Park. Learn about Munich’s rich history, culture, and traditions from your knowledgeable guide during this panoramic tour. After the city tour, you will continue your journey to Passau.  Enjoy the scenic drive through the Bavarian countryside as you head towards this charming city on the banks of the Danube River. Embarkation starts at 03-00PM. The ship sets sail after 04-00PM. Enjoy welcome dinner on board. 
Overnight on board.

DAY 4 - VIENNA (B/L/D)

Enjoy your breakfast onboard. Around noon arrive in Vienna. Vienna, the elegant capital of Austria, is renowned for its imperial history, classical music heritage, and stunning architecture. Once the heart of the Habsburg Empire, the city is home to grand palaces like Schönbrunn and the Hofburg, as well as world-class museums and concert halls. During the holiday season, Vienna transforms into a winter wonderland with its enchanting Christmas markets, where twinkling lights, festive music, and the scent of mulled wine fill the air. With its charming coffee houses, vibrant cultural scene, and blend of old-world charm and modern flair, Vienna offers a truly timeless experience.

Shore Excursion: City tour of Vienna, incl. the Christmas Market, St Stephan’s Cathedral, Hofburg and Ringstrasse
Enjoy a panoramic city tour of Vienna, featuring highlights such as the grand Ringstrasse, the impressive Hofburg Palace, and the iconic St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Soak up the festive atmosphere with a visit to one of Vienna’s charming Christmas Markets, filled with seasonal treats, crafts, and holiday cheer.

DAY 5 - BUDAPEST (B/L/D)

Enjoy breakfast onboard as you cruise toward Budapest. Arrival is expected around noon.
Shore Excursion: City tour of Budapest with free time for the Christmas Market
Discover the highlights of Budapest on a guided city tour showcasing iconic landmarks such as the Parliament Building, Heroes’ Square, and the historic Buda Castle district. Take in panoramic views from Gellért Hill and admire the city’s unique blend of architectural styles. After the tour, enjoy free time to explore one of Budapest’s festive Christmas Markets, where you can browse handcrafted gifts, sip hot mulled wine, and sample seasonal Hungarian treats. The magical atmosphere is sure to delight visitors of all ages.

DAY 6 - BRATSILAVA (B/L/D)

Enjoy breakfast as you cruise through the scenic Slovakian stretch of the Danube River.  Arrive in Bratislava at around 1 pm.

Shore Excursion: City tour of Bratislava with a trip to the castle
Explore the charming capital of Slovakia on a guided city tour of Bratislava. Stroll through the historic Old Town, with its cobbled streets, quaint squares, and baroque architecture. Visit landmarks such as St. Martin’s Cathedral and the Main Square. Then head up to the majestic Bratislava Castle, perched on a hilltop with panoramic views of the Danube and the city below. Learn about the city’s rich history and cultural heritage along the way.

DAY 7 - MELK (B/L/D)

Enjoy your breakfast approaching Melk. Arrive in Melk around 10:30 AM.
Shore Excursion: A tour to Melk Monastery
Visit the breathtaking Melk Monastery, one of Europe’s most magnificent Baroque abbeys, perched on a hill overlooking the Danube River. On this guided tour, explore the monastery’s ornate church, its imperial rooms, and the famous library, home to thousands of rare and historic manuscripts. Learn about the abbey’s rich history as a spiritual and cultural center dating back over 900 years. Admire the stunning architecture, intricate frescoes, and sweeping views of the Wachau Valley.

In the afternoon, relax and enjoy the stunning beauty of the Wachau Valley as you cruise along the Danube River. This UNESCO World Heritage site is renowned for its picturesque landscapes, featuring rolling vineyards, charming villages, and historic castles nestled against dramatic cliffs. As you drift along the river, take in the scenic views of terraced hillsides, lush green fields, and quaint towns that line the riverbanks, making this a truly unforgettable experience

DAY 8 - PASSAU (DISEMBARKATION) - LANDSHUT - MUNICH (B/-/-)

Enjoy breakfast on board before you disembark this morning at 9 AM. Depart around 9:30 AM to Landshut. As you leave the charming town behind, enjoy a scenic drive through the Bavarian countryside, heading toward your first stop: Burg Burghausen. Burghausen Castle, recognized as the longest castle complex in the world, offers an unforgettable journey through medieval Bavaria with its six fortified courtyards, towering ramparts, panoramic views over the Salzach Valley, and beautifully preserved Gothic architecture. Your group will enjoy an atmospheric outside visit of the castle grounds, walking through its impressive walls, gates, and courtyards while learning about its centuries-old history. The visit is brought to life by a professional guide dressed in authentic period costume, who shares vivid stories about ducal life, daily medieval routines, and the castle’s strategic importance. Around midday, you'll continue your journey toward Munich, the vibrant capital of Bavaria. As you approach the city, you'll be entering a cultural hub known for its rich history, impressive architecture, and world-renowned beer gardens. Check-in the hotel. (check in is guranateed at 03-00PM). On your last night on this wonderful trip, you may want to dive into the city’s atmosphere or explore its renowned landmarks. Not sure what to do on your last free day in Munich? As the final chord of your Christmas-market tour, Munich’s iconic market offers the perfect closing experience to your festive journey! The Munich Christkindlmarkt on Marienplatz is a magical winter tradition — a festive wonderland set beneath the historic towers of the city’s old town hall. Wooden stalls glow with twinkling lights and offer handmade ornaments, Bavarian crafts, warm glühwein and traditional seasonal treats like gingerbread and lebkuchen. The atmosphere is cozy, lively and full of charm: the scent of mulled wine and roasted chestnuts fills the air, carols and festive music play in the background, and shoppers wander among the stalls under a canopy of lights. The historic buildings around — with Gothic spires, old-town charm and cobblestone streets — add to the fairy-tale vibe, making it not just a market but a place to breathe in the spirit of Christmas. It’s an unmissable experience for anyone visiting Munich during the holiday season.

Overnight in Munich

DAY 9 - MUNICH - CLEVELAND (B/-/-)

After breakfast on board its time to disembark and transfer Munich airport for your flight home.

Danube Christmas Markets Cruise with The Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce Book Now!

Holiday Inn Munich City Centre (Munich)
Our Rating :
Local Rating :
Accommmodation Type : Superior

A 5-minute walk from the Rosenheimer Platz S-Bahn station, this modern hotel is also a 7-minute walk from the Deutsches Museum and 1 km from Marienplatz central square. Straightforward rooms with double-glazed windows feature free Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs, minibars and coffeemakers. Suites add separate living spaces. Kids 17 and under stay free with an adult. A bright restaurant features Bavarian cuisine and a breakfast buffet (fee), and there's a modern cocktail lounge as well as a relaxed lobby cafe. There's also a business center and 20 meeting rooms.

MS Viktoria (Passau)
Our Rating :
Local Rating :
Accommmodation Type : Cruise Ship

Sail in comfort aboard Viktoria, where modern furnishings and panoramic views create a relaxing atmosphere throughout your journey. Enjoy peaceful moments on the spacious sun deck or in the privacy of your elegant cabin. Unwind in the wellness area, complete with a soothing sauna and whirlpool. Savor fresh culinary creations in the cozy onboard restaurant, with lunch and dinner served at the table. Depending on the day’s program, choose a light buffet near the Panorama Salon or grilled snacks on the sun deck. Exceptional service ensures every moment on Viktoria feels special.

Danube Christmas Markets Cruise with The Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce Book Now!

Your Destination Guide: Visas & Helpful Tips

Please refer to the following link(s) for important information about your specific destination.
Germany | Austria | Hungary | Slovakia

SHOULD I GET TRAVEL INSURANCE?

Click here to check our recommended travel protection plan.

IS THIS A CHILD FRIENDLY TOUR? ARE THERE ANY RESTRICTIONS?

All children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. Minimum age for children on escorted tours is 8. Minimum age on Safaris is 8. Minimum age for game drives in Kruger National Park (South Africa) is 12. Minimum age for Uganda programs is 15.

Please note that many countries have adopted practices to prevent international abductions of children. If a person under the age of 18 years will be travelling with an adult other than his/her parents, or with only one parent, a notarized letter, granting authorization to travel, including the dates of travel should be carried.

I AM A SINGLE TRAVELER. SHOULD I PAY A SINGLE SUPPLEMENT?

We offer many Solo-Friendly trips with no mandatory single supplement. For all other tours, a single supplement will apply for solo travelers.

For the rates on these tours, please refer to the Price and Dates section on each tour page.

WHAT ARE THE IMPORTANT FACTORS TO KNOW BEFORE TRAVELING TO A DESTINATION?

Please refer to the following link(s) for important information about your specific destination.
Germany | Austria | Hungary | Slovakia

Frequently Asked Questions Book Now!

PERSONAL ACCOUNTS

How do I book a tour with Indus Travels?

You can review How to Book a Tour page for more details.

How do I create an Indus Account?

Go to our website and click on the register button found on the upper right hand side to create your Indus Travel account and start booking tours! 

If I don't remember my password, how do I log in?

Click the Forgot Password? link in the login form and it will lead you to a form to change your password. Simply enter your registered email address and you will be emailed a link to reset your password. 

How do I view my invoice?

You will not be able to access your invoice immediately upon booking. You will be notified by email when it is available for you, normally within 48 business hours of booking. You can find your invoice and all other details of the tours you booked by logging on to your account and going to the Tour Booking History page.


PAYMENT PROCEDURE

How do I make payment online?

Simply login to your Indus Travel account, go to your tour of choice and click on Book Now. You will then confirm the details and your preferences about the tour and finally pay through our secure online payment platform. 

What forms of payment does Indus Travel accept?

We accept US & CA Dollar check, bank check, money order, direct deposits, wire transfer, Visa, and Master credit cards. Third-party credit cards are not acceptable. Payments made by wire transfer must include an additional $30 wire transfer fee. There is a $50 fee for returned checks.

Where do I mail a cheque?

Cheque payments should include your Reservation number in the memo section and be made payable to Indus Travels Ltd and mailed to:
233 - 11951 Hammersmith Way,
Richmond, BC, V7A 5H9,
Canada

When is my final payment due?

Your exact final payment date is indicated on your invoice which may be viewed by signing into your account. In general, the final payment is due 90 days prior to departure with some exceptions where payment is due earlier (All tours including cruise final payment is due 120 days before departure).

How much is my final payment?

The amount of your final payment will be noted on your invoice and can be accessed by logging into your account online.

Can I send a bank cheque or money order?

Yes. Indus accepts US & CA Dollar cheque, bank cheque, money order, direct deposits, wire transfer, Visa & Master credit cards. Third-party credit cards are not acceptable. Payments made by wire transfer must include an additional $30 wire transfer fee. There is a $50 fee for returned cheques.

To whom should I write the cheque?

Cheque payments should include your Reservation number in the memo section and be made payable to Indus Travels Ltd.

Can I pay with a debit card?

No. Indus does not accept payments with Debit card.

How do I know if Indus received my payment?

You will be notified by email that your payment was received and applied to your reservation. You may also access your reservation by logging into your account online


TRAVEL DOCUMENTS

When will I receive my e-Documents?

Once final payment has been received and processed, documents will be sent via email approximately 21 days prior to the beginning of your tour services.

Can I get paper documents?

Paper documents may be sent upon passenger request. There is a shipping and handling fee of $30 for each set of paper documents: These paper documents will be delivered between 14-21 business days prior to the beginning of your tour. In some instances, a paper voucher/ticket is required by our vendor. In these instances, the costs for shipping and handling will be shouldered by Indus Travels.

How do I access and print my documents?

Your documents may be accessed by logging into your Indus Travel account and checking your Tour Booking History. 

Do I receive anything else with my e-documents?

Indus e-document package includes all local contact details, daily itinerary, airline e-ticket information, service vouchers, and travel tips which should be everything you require to go on your trip. 

How do I know where to find my airline ticket?

With a few exceptions, international airline tickets are issued electronically. The airline confirmation number and ticket numbers stated in your documents represent your airline "ticket(s)." Some domestic Arline tickets which can only be issued at destination will be given to you upon your arrival in the local destination.


ENTRY VISAS

If I need one, who is responsible to obtain my visa?

You are responsible for obtaining the proper travel documents for the destinations on your itinerary, including having a passport that is valid for at least 6 months before the date of departure and a visa if required. Please check the Visa section in the Know Before You Go document for the countries you will be visiting. 

Please note: Passengers who are not U.S. or Canadian citizens must check with the respective consulate or a visa agency to determine what personal identification is required. Passengers who enter, leave and then re-enter the same country on their itinerary should check if they require a double-entry visa.

How do I know if I need a visa?

Please check the Before You Book section found on every tour to access the country specific Know Before You Go document to know about Visa and other important information about the countries you will be visiting.

How do I obtain a visa?

A visa may be obtained by using a visa service or by contacting the embassy or consulate of the nation you are visiting prior to departing from your home country.

Please check the Before You Book section found on every tour to access the country specific Know Before You Go document to know about Visa and other important information about the countries you will be visiting.

How much does a visa cost?

There will be different costs that will be specific per embassy/consulate and whether you have used a visa service or not. These costs often change with little notice. We recommend that you contact the appropriate embassy or consulate directly for the most up to date information.

You may find the contact information for consulates/embassies in the Visa section of the Know Before You Go document available for the country you will be visiting.


OPTIONAL TOURS & ACTIVITIES

What are optional sightseeing tours?

Optional tours are offered to travelers interested in additional experiences, sightseeing, meals or activities to supplement the included components of our tours. You may choose to participate in some, all or none of the optional tours which are priced individually. Complete descriptions and prices for each optional tour are listed on the itinerary section of the tours on our website. 

When can I add optional tours?

Optional tours are available for purchase any time up to 45 days before departure.

Can I purchase optional tours locally?

Yes. When traveling on an escorted tour, optional tours may be purchased locally from the Tour Manager. However, Indus cannot guarantee the rate and availability of these services when purchased locally. Please note that tours purchased locally are subject to current exchange rates and may cost up to 10% more.

Can I add optional tours for only select individuals on my reservation?

Yes. For assistance on this matter, please contact Indus Travel sales and reservations staff.


TRAVEL INSURANCE & COVERAGE

What coverage does Travel Insurance provide?

For complete details on Travel Insurance, check our Travel protection page.

When can I purchase Travel Insurance?

American Residents can purchase Trawick Insurance with us at the time of booking or anytime prior to departure. After booking, Canadian Residents will receive an email with a referral to TuGo Insurance which can be purchased anytime prior to departure.

When is Travel Insurance active?

Travel Protection coverages will take effect on the later of 1) the date the plan payment has been received by the Policyholder; 2) the date and time you start your Covered Trip; or 3) 12:01 A.M. Standard Time on the Scheduled Departure Date of your Covered Trip.

I need to cancel my trip and have not purchased insurance, what do I do?

Penalties for cancellation will depend on the tour you have purchased and how close to departure you are at the time of cancellation. For more information, visit our terms and conditions.


INTERNATIONAL AND DOMESTIC FLIGHTS

Why is it important that I give my name as it appears on my passport when booking a tour? 

Due to increased travel security and policies around the world, it is now a requirement that your airline ticket matches your first and last name exactly as it reads on your passport. Please note that any changes to the details of your air booking, could be subject to a change fee, penalties or cancellation.

Can I reserve a seat assignment?

For our packages that include flights, we do not usually assign seats. In most cases, you can request specific seats, but this may incur a small fee payable to the airline. For more information, contact our sales and reservations staff.

Once confirmed, are airlines seats always guaranteed?

In most cases, seat assignments are firm. However, airlines may sometimes reassign seats for operational reasons. This often happens at the last moment and is controlled by airline staff, with Indus Travel not being notified. Passengers are encouraged to reconfirm their seat assignments and any other special requests directly with their airline prior to departure.

Should I check-in online?

It always recommended and more convenient to check in online. It will shorten your waiting time at the airport, secure your seat assignments and other reservations.

Can I request a special meal on the flight?

Requests may be made for special meals. These requests will be sent on your behalf to the airline so long as Indus receives these request prior to your documents being issued. The availability of special meals will be based upon the specific airlines and will be at their discretion.

Can I use my frequent flier miles?

Accrued frequent flier miles cannot be used toward the purchase of Indus Travels’ airfare or used for class upgrades. However, airfare purchased through Indus Travels may qualify to earn you additional miles.


AIRPORT PROCEDURES

What is required when I check-in?

Ticketed passengers must show correct identification at check-in. Children must have a parent present at check-in and all tickets must be in each passenger's name.

What is required with International travel?

An international trip may require valid travel documents such as passport, visa, re-entry permit, health certificate, inoculation record, a ticket for the return journey or continuance of your trip, or ANY combination thereof. Passengers are responsible for the proper documentation. Concerns about the required travel documents may be resolved by contacting the appropriate consulate or embassy.

Danube Christmas Markets Cruise with The Ashland Area Chamber of Commerce Book Now!

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