Hungary, Slovakia, Austria, and Germany await your arrival for one unique festive party after another. These countries are fascinating any time of the year, but during the holidays, they come alive with deep-rooted traditions, and Christmas Markets are part of these traditions. Christmas Markets are in full swing - from the large Christmas Markets of Vienna to the more intimate Christmas Markets of Bratislava, Passau and Vilshofen - each combining timeless traditions with pageantry.

Celebrate the deep-rooted holiday traditions of four countries

A huge decorated Christmas tree sits regally in the main square of each city, glittering lights adorn the streets, and aromas of roasted chestnuts and Christmas punch fill the air as Austria prepares for its biggest party of the year. Germany celebrates the season in the same fashion, and Christmas Markets provide the perfect gathering place for friends to meet for a mug of mulled wine or two, then stroll in search for the perfect one-of-a-kind gifts - wooden toys, knitted woolens, glass-blown Christmas decorations in all shapes and sizes, nutcrackers, candle-driven Christmas carousels, angels and incense-burning figurines - and more! Bratislava's Christmas Market, located right in the historic town center, is renowned for traditional ceramics, metalwork, woodwork, straw-work, textiles, glass and hand-made Christmas ornaments. In addition, you can taste all the typical Slovakian Christmas treats. Try lokse, larded bread with onions and potato pancakes. Sink your teeth into strudel, crepes and Christmas cakes. In Budapest, admire the 6-foot advent wreath or a crib with live animals in it whilst savoring local delicacies such as honey cake and langos.

No matter the country, you will unwrap one special tradition after another as you feel the welcoming warmth of each destination you visit. See first-hand how gingerbread is made while in Passau. Enjoy a horse sleigh ride in the Bavarian Forest. Learn about the art of glass-blowing in a small Bavarian town. Warm your hands and your spirits with a mug of gluhwein while listening to the sounds of music while in Salzburg. And embrace all the glory and magic of the season in grand European style as you sail along the Danube.

Who will enjoy this cruise: Everyone will delight in celebrating the holiday traditions of Austria, Germany, Slovakia and Hungary. Admire delicate glass-blown ornaments, sip mulled wine, nibble on gingerbread and shop for one-of-a-kind gifts to put under your own Christmas tree.

Cruise Highlights include: