December 9 - 16, 2026 (with Optional Pre/Post Stay)
Journey through the centuries on cobblestone streets of grand cities and historic towns, each adorned with twinkling Christmas trees and lined with charming wooden huts brimming with handcrafted treasures. Iconic Christmas markets await, bringing festive delights in their most enchanting forms.
Discover the wonder of Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt, Germany’s largest and oldest market; wander through the romantic Christmas market at Regensburg’s Thurn and Taxis Castle in Bavaria; lose yourself in Vienna’s majestic displays that greet you at every turn; and explore Budapest’s Vörösmarty Square, where each item is a lovingly crafted, traditional masterpiece. Sparkling lights, angelic carolers, and the enticing aromas of hot mulled wine, roasted chestnuts, savory sausages, and sweet treats of every kind offer a feast for all the senses, bringing timeless holiday magic to life.
Join Sojourney Travel on this unforgettable journey and let’s make your European dream come alive!
COUNTRIES: Austria, Germany, HungaryRIVERS: Danube
SPACIOUS STATEROOMS● 7 nights luxury accommodation in an outside stateroom (most with twin balconies)● Entertainment-On-Demand in all staterooms featuring free high-speed internet access, movies, a music library and English language TV stations● Mini-fridge, desk and sitting area● Bottled water replenished dailyAN ARRAY OF AMENITIES● Wellness Activities with a dedicated Wellness Host leading various exercise classes● Personalized service from a highly trained Cruise Manager during both cruise and land packages● Internet and Wi-Fi access● Sun-deck heated pool with swim-up bar and walking track● Fitness room, massage services and hair salon● Main Lounge with panoramic views and bar● Daily entertainment including cultural performancesAWARD-WINNING DINING● All onboard gourmet dining in a variety of venues● Regionally inspired cuisine made with locally sourced ingredients● The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant● Welcome Cocktail, Welcome Dinner, La Chaîne des Rôtisseurs Dinner, Captain's Cocktail and Gala DinnerLa Chaîne des Rôtisseurs exclusive dining experience● Unlimited fine wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner● Unlimited sparkling wine and fresh juice with breakfast● Sip & Sail Cocktail Hour with complimentary wine, beer, spirits and soft drinks● Tapas, sandwiches, snacks and refreshments served daily in the Main LoungeA WORLD OF EXPLORATION● Immersive tours in every destination● Gentle, regular, active and late-riser tour options● Bike tours and hikes● Bikes and Helmet Use● Special interest tours● Knowledgeable guides● Personal headset for easy exploration● Airport transfers with purchase of air from AmaWaterways
What's Not Included
● Flights from the USA● Airport transfers● Pre/Post Stay or land arrangements● All other beverages except of the ones mentioned previously● Use of the telephone in each cabin for ship to shore calls● Items purchased on land or in gift shop● Optional shore excursions that might be offered in addition to our daily included shore excursion program● Dining purchased off ship.
Experience the wonder of Christmas in Europe!
Immerse yourself in the enchanting spirit of the holidays with this Sojourney Travel Chartered Christmas Market cruise. Picture a vessel elegantly gliding along Europe's grand rivers, each port stop aglow with festive charm. As you step ashore, vibrant market stalls beckon with twinkling lights, sharing the scent of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine wafting through crisp winter air. Handcrafted treasures hang as delicate ornaments, while the cheerful melodies of carolers echo through historic alleyways, painting a scene as magical as a child’s storybook. This cruise not only celebrates timeless tradition but encapsulates it in a luxurious journey that promises warmth, wonder, and the kind of seasonal spirit that only a European Christmas can deliver. It’s a voyage filled with joy, perfect for those looking to make this year’s holiday unforgettable. At Sojourney Travel, this is more than a cruise—it's a heartfelt invitation to join in the wonder of the season. Suitcases and Sightseeing at Christmas...So, Journey With Us!
Itinerary is subject to change. For the most up-to-date information, please refer to the itinerary schedule provided with your final documents.(B), (L), (D) indicates meals included on travel day. Tours that are included are subject to change. We have a few surprises in the works!
OPTIONAL PRE-STAY 2 Nights in Budapest
See below for descriptions of each. NOT included in cruise fare. See pricing details for optional add-ons.
Land Package Includes● Stays at world-class 4- and 5-star hotels conveniently located near the major sites● Daily breakfast at the hotel● Convenient transfers and portage service between your hotel and river cruise ship● The services of one of our extraordinary Cruise Managers throughout your journey● Enriching city tours and excursions led by knowledgeable local guides
Optional Pre-Stay (Day 1): BUDAPEST HUNGARY
Arrive in Budapest and check into your hotel.
Optional Pre-Stay (Day 2): BUDAPEST HUNGARY
Often described as the “Queen of the Danube,” Budapest is well-known for Fisherman’s Bastion, Buda Hill and its magnificent Hungarian Parliament building. However, this sprawling city is full of rich history and culture and offers many “hidden” treasures as you venture further past its riverbanks. During this excursion, your guide will take you deeper into the city to discover fascinating sites lesser-known to the average traveler. (B)
Cruise Day 1: EMBARKATION – BUDAPEST, HUNGARY
Board the ship for your Iconic Christmas Markets cruise. (B,D)
Cruise Day 2: BUDAPEST, HUNGARY
Home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Buda Castle quarter in Castle Hill and Heroes’ Square, Budapest offers an unmatched combination of culture and tradition. Today you have the
opportunity to visit the Buda (hilly) side of the Danube River. On your tour, follow your guide through the city’s Castle District, where you will marvel at the fairytale turrets of Fisherman’s Bastion, gaze upon the breathtaking panorama below and see Matthias Church, renowned for its striking tower and colorful mosaic roof. You will also visit the city’s famed Christmas Markets. For a more active tour, hike to Budapest’s Castle Hill. (B,L,D)
Cruise Day 3: VIENNA, AUSTRIA
The “City of Waltzes” offers a treasure trove of gems just waiting to be discovered. Join a tour showcasing its regal splendors, such as the majestic Opera House and the former Imperial Palace of the Habsburgs before concluding in Vienna’s historic city center. Afterwards, you’ll visit the Christmas Markets where you can purchase delightful delicacies and hand-made gifts. If you prefer a more active adventure, then join a guided bike along the Danube River. In the afternoon, visit Schönbrunn Palace Christmas Market and its spectacular festive atmosphere. Cap the day off at the beautifully decorated Town Hall (Rathaus), Vienna’s largest Christmas Market. (B,L,D)
Cruise Day 4: MELK, AUSTRIA
High on a rocky outcrop lies the Melk Abbey, one of Europe’s most revered Baroque monasteries. Visit this magnificent and storied abbey, which now houses a museum chronicling its history and a famous library with countless medieval manuscripts. Alternatively, go on a guided bike ride around Melk. During the evening, enjoy a scenic cruise through the Strudengau Valley. (B,L,D)
Cruise Day 5: PASSAU GERMANY
Join a walking tour of this 2,000-year-old city, noted for its Gothic and Italian Baroque architecture and St. Stephen’s. Go in search of Bavarian-style crafts at the Christmas Market. Or, for the active adventurer, join a guided bike tour along the Danube. Alternatively, you can travel through the serene Austrian Alps to Salzburg, birthplace of Mozart. Your full-day excursion in Salzburg includes a walking tour of the UNESCO-designated Old Town, its magnificent cathedral and its Christmas Markets, including the Hellbrunn Palace, where its inner courtyard is turned into a romantic backdrop for one of the most beautiful Christmas Markets in Austria. (B,L,D)
Cruise Day 6: REGENSBURG, GERMANY
Regensburg is one of Germany’s best preserved medieval cities, as well as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Join a guided walking tour showcasing the city’s architectural highlights, including the Old Town Hall and the Porta Praetoria, before visiting the Old Town Christmas market. As an alternate option, sample some of Bavaria’s specialties—beer, sausage and pretzels. Or bike to the base of Walhalla where there is a neoclassical white marble temple inspired by the Parthenon in Athens. For those in a more festive mood, spend the afternoon at Bavaria’s most beautiful and romantic Christmas markets at Thurn and Taxis, where you can watch artisans make their unique arts and crafts. (B,L,D)
Cruise Day 7: NUREMBERG, GERMANY
Enjoy a scenic morning cruise as the ship crosses the Continental Divide via the Main-Danube Canal to Nuremberg. Join a city tour of WWII highlights and then walk through Nuremberg’s cobblestone streets to the Imperial Castle and 900-year-old city ramparts. Alternatively, you can taste your way through the city with a Franconian specialties tour, which introduces you to bratwurst, rotbier (red beer) and lebkuchen (gingerbread). Later, you can visit Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt, one of the world’s largest and most famous Christmas Markets. (B,L,D)
Cruise Day 8: NUREMBERG – DISEMBARKATION
Disembark the ship and enjoy the wonder of Nuremberg’s other Christmas Markets before departing for Prague, where you will either fly home OR check into your hotel if you have booked the post-stay. (B)
OPTIONAL POST-STAY 3 Nights in Prague
See below for descriptions of each. NOT included in cruise fare. See pricing details for optional add-ons.
Land Package Includes● Stays at world-class 4- and 5-star hotels conveniently located near the major sites● Daily breakfast at the hotel● Convenient transfers and portage service between your hotel and river cruise ship● The services of one of our extraordinary Cruise Managers throughout your journey● Enriching city tours and excursions led by knowledgeable local guides
Post Stay (Day 1): PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC
Discover Prague on a city tour or a castle hike. Both will reveal why Prague is considered one of Europe’s most attractive cities, with a historic city center that’s recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Later in the day, visit Prague’s festive Christmas Markets. (B)
Post Stay (Day 2): PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC
Beer has a long and illustrious history in the Czech Republic with the first brewery established in 993. Beer is a core part of the country’s national identity, so join a Czech beer tasting and discover for yourself
what makes the Czech’s beer some of the very best in the world. (B)
Post Stay (Day 3): PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC
Bid farewell to Prague and prepare for your flight home. (B)
Life on Board - AT A GLANCE
Photos are representation of ship.
Our award-winning AmaSonata sings her melodious tune down Europe’s great rivers. Most accommodations have twin balconies, so you can enjoy the ever-changing scenery however you wish, along with amenities like Entertainment-On-Demand, high-speed Internet access and English-language TV stations.
A soft color palette in each stateroom calms the mind for relaxation, but when you’re ready to get active, head to the fitness center or up to the Sun Deck to the heated pool. Crisp white tablecloths and napkins grace the tables in the subdued Main Dining Room, while The Chef’s Table specialty restaurant highlights its 5-star multi-course cuisine with gold-hued tones and a twinkling overhead centerpiece. With a stunning Main Lounge, tranquil library, sun-deck walking track, massage and hair salon, and gift shop, you’ll never find a dull moment—and will sing AmaSonata’s praises while sailing on board.
TWIN BALCONIESEnjoy panoramic views and plenty of fresh air in our lavish twin-balcony staterooms that feature both a French balcony and an outside balcony.
AWARD-WINNING DININGSavor exquisite cuisine at a variety of dining venues, like the Main Restaurant and The Chef’s Table. You can also order delicious tapas between meals in the Main Lounge.
INVITING PUBLIC SPACESWith fewer guests on board, you can enjoy the luxury of space to unwind, relax and reconnect with your loved ones. Our public areas, including lounges and restaurants, are never overcrowded.
SIGHTSEE BY BIKE
With a fleet of complimentary bicycles on board, you have the opportunity to explore Europe on our guided bike tours, or go discover on your own.
SUN-DECK POOLSoak up some rays or take a dip in our refreshing pool with a swim-up bar as we pass by centuries-old castles, charming villages and other breathtaking scenery.
MASSAGE AND BEAUTY SALONAfter a marvelous day of immersive shore excursions, return to the ship and treat yourself to a bit of pampering with a soothing massage.
Fitness RoomAre you looking for a way to stay fit on vacation? Hit the treadmill or lift some weights while cruising from one destination to the next.
Enriching EntertainmentWhether it’s traditional Bavarian music, a local quartet or modern piano favorites, there is an eclectic schedule of entertainment on board.
Suite
● Violin Deck - 300sq ft● French Balcony & Outside Balcony● In-room temperature control● Deluxe hotel-style bedding with Egyptian linen, down pillows and duvet● Spacious bathrooms with multi-jet showerheads● Large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe and direct-dial telephone● Flat-screen TV● Entertainment on Demand system providing complimentary TV, movies and music library● Complimentary internet and Wi-Fi● Complimentary bottled water replenished daily● Desk and chair
Category AA+
● Violin Deck - 290sq ft● French Balcony & Outside Balcony, ● In-room temperature control● Deluxe hotel-style bedding with Egyptian linen, down pillows and duvet● Spacious bathrooms with multi-jet showerheads● Large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe and direct-dial telephone● Flat-screen TV● Entertainment on Demand system providing complimentary TV, movies and music library● Complimentary internet and Wi-Fi● Complimentary bottled water replenished daily● Desk and chair
Category AA
● Violin Deck - 235sq ft● French Balcony & Outside Balcony● In-room temperature control● Deluxe hotel-style bedding with Egyptian linen, down pillows and duvet● Spacious bathrooms with multi-jet showerheads● Large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe and direct-dial telephone● Flat-screen TV● Entertainment on Demand system providing complimentary TV, movies and music library● Complimentary internet and Wi-Fi● Complimentary bottled water replenished daily● Desk and chair
Category AB
● Cello Deck - 235sq ft● French Balcony & Outside Balcony● In-room temperature control● Deluxe hotel-style bedding with Egyptian linen, down pillows and duvet● Spacious bathrooms with multi-jet showerheads● Large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe and direct-dial telephone● Flat-screen TV● Entertainment on Demand system providing complimentary TV, movies and music library● Complimentary internet and Wi-Fi● Complimentary bottled water replenished daily● Desk and chair
Category BA
● Violin Deck - 210sq ft● French Balcony & Outside Balcony● In-room temperature control● Deluxe hotel-style bedding with Egyptian linen, down pillows and duvet● Spacious bathrooms with multi-jet showerheads● Large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe and direct-dial telephone● Flat-screen TV● Entertainment on Demand system providing complimentary TV, movies and music library● Complimentary internet and Wi-Fi● Complimentary bottled water replenished daily● Desk and chair
Category BB
● Cello Deck - 210sq ft ● French Balcony & Outside Balcony● In-room temperature control● Deluxe hotel-style bedding with Egyptian linen, down pillows and duvet● Spacious bathrooms with multi-jet showerheads● Large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe and direct-dial telephone● Flat-screen TV● Entertainment on Demand system providing complimentary TV, movies and music library● Complimentary internet and Wi-Fi● Complimentary bottled water replenished daily● Desk and chair
Category C
● Violin & Cello Deck - 170sq ft● French Balcony● In-room temperature control● Deluxe hotel-style bedding with Egyptian linen, down pillows and duvet● Spacious bathrooms with multi-jet showerheads● Large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe and direct-dial telephone● Flat-screen TV● Entertainment on Demand system providing complimentary TV, movies and music library● Complimentary internet and Wi-Fi● Complimentary bottled water replenished daily● Desk and chair
Category D
● Piano Deck - 160sq ft● Fixed Windows● In-room temperature control● Deluxe hotel-style bedding with Egyptian linen, down pillows and duvet● Spacious bathrooms with multi-jet showerheads● Large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe and direct-dial telephone● Flat-screen TV● Entertainment on Demand system providing complimentary TV, movies and music library● Complimentary internet and Wi-Fi● Complimentary bottled water replenished daily● Desk and chair
Category E
● Piano Deck - 160sq ft● Fixed Windows● In-room temperature control● Deluxe hotel-style bedding with Egyptian linen, down pillows and duvet● Spacious bathrooms with multi-jet showerheads● Large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, safe and direct-dial telephone● Flat-screen TV● Entertainment on Demand system providing complimentary TV, movies and music library● Complimentary internet and Wi-Fi● Complimentary bottled water replenished daily● Desk and chair
Stateroom Pricing
Pricing excludes taxes, port charges, and gratuities for the cruise. Excludes flights, insurance, transfers land options/stay, and land gratuities.
SUITE (Rooms 301 & 303)
$8,161 Per Person Double Occupancy$14,688 for Single Occupancy
Category AA+ (Room 302)
$7,415 Per Person Double Occupancy$13,347 for Single Occupancy
Category AA
$6,775 Per Person Double Occupancy$12,195 for Single Occupancy
Category AB
$6,562 Per Person Double Occupancy$11,812 for Single Occupancy
Category BA
$6,349 Per Person Double Occupancy$11,429 for Single Occupancy
Category BB
$6,136 Per Person Double Occupancy$11,045 for Single Occupancy
Category C
$5,496 Per Person Double Occupancy$9,893 for Single Occupancy
Category D
$4,217 Per Person Double Occupancy$7364 for Single Occupancy
Category E
$3,898 Per Person Double Occupancy$6,522 for Single Occupancy
Dec 7: Arrive in Budapest and check into your hotel.Dec 8: Often described as the “Queen of the Danube,” Budapest is well-known for Fisherman’s Bastion, Buda Hill and its magnificent Hungarian Parliament building. However, this sprawling city is full of rich history and culture and offers many “hidden” treasures as you venture further past its riverbanks. During this excursion, your guide will take you deeper into the city to discover fascinating sites lesser-known to the average traveler. (B) Dec 9: Board the ship for your Enchanting Christmas Markets cruise. (B,D)
Price: $1007 Per Person Double Occupancy or $1440 for Single Occupancy
Dec 16: Disembark the ship and enjoy the wonder of Nuremberg’s other Christmas Markets before departing for Prague, where you will check into your hotel. (B)
Dec 17: Discover Prague on a city tour or a castle hike. Both will reveal why Prague is considered one of Europe’s most attractive cities, with a historic city center that’s recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Later in the day, visit Prague’s festive Christmas Markets. (B)
Dec 18: Beer has a long and illustrious history in the Czech Republic with the first brewery established
in 993. Beer is a core part of the country’s national identity, so join a Czech beer tasting and discover for yourself what makes the Czech’s beer some of the very best in the world. (B) **BEER TOUR SUBJECT TO CHANGE BASED ON A POSSIBLE SECOND TOUR OPTION TO BE ADDED OR CHANGED TOO TBD***Dec 19: Bid farewell to Prague and prepare for your flight home. (B)
AmaWaterways FAQAmaWaterways
Payment Terms
● Deposit of $600 per person for double occupancy and $1000 for single occupancy holds your spot on the cruise and is non-refundable. Deposit for land is $100 each pre/post stay. We recommend the purchase of insurance within 13 days of deposit. Your travel advisor will provide you with a quote. ● 40% of your balance is due 195 days prior to departure● Final Payment is due 130 days prior to travel and is non-refundable● Cruise fare and all deposits are non-refundable. We strongly recommend travel insurance for unforeseen circumstances, sickness, airline delays, etc.● In the unfortunate event a participant must cancel travel, notice to us must be via email, which must include a return receipt and read notation, or other writing stating clearly and correctly each passenger name, ship name, start and end date of cruise and a brief statement of the reason for cancellation. Other forms of notice are not sufficient. Cancellation date is the date we receive the written cancellation notice and unused tickets. A name change or substitution of participant is also treated as a cancellation in that all cancellation charges apply.
● Due to medical safety guidelines, we are unable to accommodate passengers who will enter their 24th week of pregnancy by the time of the cruise.● All guests under the age of 18 are to be in a stateroom with an adult and must remain supervised at all times; their safety is the responsibility of the accompanying adult(s). Children between the ages of 4-10 at the time of embarkation may share a stateroom with two adults only in circumstances where the child is able to share the bed with the adults – no additional bed will be provided. Please be aware that balcony staterooms of any kind may be unsafe for small children if left unsupervised. Children under the age of 4 are not permitted on board; children 4-5 years old are not recommended on any program. On the Africa Safaris & Wildlife Cruise program, due to safety precautions, there is a minimum age limit of 12 years old, unless otherwise agreed upon by AmaWaterways. AmaWaterways does not provide child-specific programs or child-minding facilities.● Smoking is only permitted on the ship’s Sun Deck in the designated smoking area.● All names should represent the full name as written on a legal proof of identification. The only legal proof of identification accepted is your passport or another government issued identity card.● Passport must be valid for 6 months from the date of return of your trip.● Copy of passport must be submitted to agency before final payment.● All guests traveling with AmaWaterways remain responsible for ensuring they meet the travel entry requirements for each country they plan to visit before, during, or after their river cruise. These requirements, as mandated by airlines and individual countries or regions, may change without notice and cancellation fees will apply should guests no longer meet the country entry requirements for their cruise or land program.● Please click HERE for all AmaWaterways Terms and Conditions for 2026. Please click HERE for all Sojourney Travel terms and conditions.● Operator reserves the right to cancel cruise due to low occupancy of charter. In this instance, all deposits will be transferred to an alternate sailing at the prevailing rate, to be chosen by guest, deposit will increase to whatever the prevailing deposit is for AmaWaterways.