Christkindlmärkte of Austria & Germany

Festive market scene at dusk, crowded with people under twinkling lights.
Event Date
Location
Austria & Germany
Christkindlmärkte of Austria & Germany

Step into a winter wonderland where festive lights sparkle above merry market stalls, the air hums with holiday music, and the scent of spiced treats and warm cheer fills every square. On this magical river journey that highlights some of Europe’s most iconic Christmas markets, you’ll discover irresistible seasonal delights that capture the true spirit of the holidays. 

Celebrate the season in unforgettable style on a joyous seven-night cruise along the enchanting Danube River, traveling from Vienna, Austria, to Nuremberg, Germany, aboard an exclusively chartered, first-class river ship. Along the way, immerse yourself in the beloved traditions of Advent at centuries-old markets in Vienna, Passau, Regensburg and Nuremberg — each glowing with history, music and festive charm. 

Choose from exciting Traveler’s Choice excursions in Linz and Vienna, and marvel at Europe’s legendary sights, from Vienna’s grand imperial Habsburg landmarks to the awe-inspiring, 900-year-old Melk Abbey. Want even more holiday magic? Extend your adventure with a pre-tour stay in elegant Vienna or a post-tour escape to festive Munich. This is Christmas in Europe at its most joyful, cozy and unforgettable!

 

Trip Highlights

  • 9 Days | 8 Nights in Austria & Germany
  • Explore some of Europe's most famous Christmas markets and enjoy a magical experience that combines old-world charm with festivity
  • Cruise for 7 nights from Vienna, Austria, to Nuremberg, Germany, through the picturesque Wachau Valley aboard Amadeus Star, an exclusively chartered, first-class riverboat.
  • Visits to 4 UNESCO World Heritage sites: Old Town of Regensburg, Germany; Wachau Cultural Landscape and Historic Center of Salzburg, Austria; and Historic Center of Vienna, Austria.

 

Snow-covered buildings and a river reflect a castle under a blue sky.
Embrace the snow-covered cityscape.
A couple smiles and points at decorations in a festive market adorned with lights.
Browse the decorated holiday market stalls.
Lounge area with white chairs and panoramic windows overlooking a river and church in twilight.
Embark on the Amadeus Star, a first-class riverboat.

 


Day by Day Itinerary

  • Day 1 Depart Home City!
  • Day 2 Vienna, Austria | Embark Amadeus Star
  • Day 3 Vienna
  • Day 4 Vienna | Durnstein | Emmersdorf | Melk
  • Day 5 Linz | Salzburg
  • Day 6 Passau, Germany
  • Day 7 Regensburg
  • Day 8 Nuremberg
  • Day 9 Nuremberg | Disembark | Return to Home City

 


Trip Booking Info

 This trip is operated by Gohagan and Company.

  • Price Information
    • Starting at $ + tax. Airfare is not included.
    • Early Booking Price & Deadline: .
    • Note! Prices shown are based on the starting price, per person, double occupancy and reflect the Pay in Full Early Booking Savings. Prices include VAT/Port Charges.
  • Airline tickets
    • Travel Operator can help coordinate your air travel or you can use your own.
  • Pre or Post Tour Options
    • Pre-Tour Extension in Vienna for 3 days, 2 nights.
    • Post-Tour Extension in Rothenburg ob der Tauber & Munich for 3 days, 2 nights.
  • Disclaimers
    • Price and dates subject to change. Call Gohagan for current information.
    • On this trip, you will have the opportunity to adventure with both UC Davis alumni and alumni from other sponsoring institutions. 

 


🌐 View all details and options

Learn more about the trip's itinerary, rates, pre/post programs, and accommodations on Gohagan's travel page.

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📞 Ready? Book your trip today!

For more information or to reserve your place on tour, please call the tour operator Gohagan Travel toll-free at (800) 922-3088. 

 

From start to finish the trip was very well organized and planned out. It was easy to reach any one of your staff by phone or in person, all who were very friendly and helpful. I loved that you took care of all of the arrangements so that I could just relax and enjoy the trip. The wait staff, the housekeeping staff and the travel directors were all outstanding! The boat was beautiful and the food excellent.

-- Lisa C., "Christkindlmärkte along the Danube River 2025"

 

Trip Map

Map of Austria highlighting major cities and borders with Germany.

 

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