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Christmastime on the Blue Danube Discovery
Avalon Illumination, Avalon Waterways
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Avalon Illumination
Departure: 15/12/2025
Duration: 8 Days
Budapest to Nuremberg
Itinerary
Sail along the Danube River on a winter cruise with exciting stops and panoramic views in Austria and Germany, and conclude in historic Nuremberg, Germany. At this time of year, the towns and cities are festively lit and decorated, each in its own part
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Day 1 Budapest, Hungary 15 Dec 2025 (Monday)
Budapest is the capital city of Hungary and is located over the River Danube. It is one of the largest cities in the European Union and much of its historical sites have been awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Originally formed in 1873 by the joining of Buda, Pest and Old Buda, the city suffered heavy destruction during World War II and was rebuilt into the country's political, cultural and commercial hub it is now. Bridges and railways connect the city over the Danube, including the six small islands situated on the river themselves. Some of Budapest’s UNESCO World Heritage sites incl... See more
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Day 2 Vienna, Austria 16 Dec 2025 (Tuesday)
Vienna is the capital and largest city of Austria. Located on the Danube River in the East of the country, the city is renowned for its strong music heritage and rich culture, and is the largest German speaking city in the world, outside of Berlin. In 2001, Vienna was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and boasts magnificent architecture. The city is home to over 27 castles and 150 palaces including the symbolic Gothic St Stephen’s Cathedral and the iconic Schönbrunn Palace. Art and music are in abundance and all tastes are catered for. Live music venues offer everything from Rock to Oper... See moreVienna is the capital and largest city of Austria. Located on the Danube River in the East of the country, the city is renowned for its strong music heritage and rich culture, and is the largest German speaking city in the world, outside of Berlin. In 2001, Vienna was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and boasts magnificent architecture. The city is home to over 27 castles and 150 palaces including the symbolic Gothic St Stephen’s Cathedral and the iconic Schönbrunn Palace. Art and music are in abundance and all tastes are catered for. Live music venues offer everything from Rock to Opera. Enjoy world class performances at Vienna State Opera and experience the epicentre of international concert life at Musikverein. Modern and historical art can be found in indoor and outdoor spaces around the city, and a visit to the famous Kunsthistorisches Museum (KHM) is highly recommended. Enjoy views of the city from the Danube Tower and the Giant Ferris Wheel, then relax in the ample cosy coffee houses, cafes, bars and restaurants where traditional and international cuisines are served, as well as the locally produced wines.
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Day 3 Vienna, Austria 17 Dec 2025 (Wednesday)
Vienna is the capital and largest city of Austria. Located on the Danube River in the East of the country, the city is renowned for its strong music heritage and rich culture, and is the largest German speaking city in the world, outside of Berlin. In 2001, Vienna was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and boasts magnificent architecture. The city is home to over 27 castles and 150 palaces including the symbolic Gothic St Stephen’s Cathedral and the iconic Schönbrunn Palace. Art and music are in abundance and all tastes are catered for. Live music venues offer everything from Rock to Oper... See moreVienna is the capital and largest city of Austria. Located on the Danube River in the East of the country, the city is renowned for its strong music heritage and rich culture, and is the largest German speaking city in the world, outside of Berlin. In 2001, Vienna was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and boasts magnificent architecture. The city is home to over 27 castles and 150 palaces including the symbolic Gothic St Stephen’s Cathedral and the iconic Schönbrunn Palace. Art and music are in abundance and all tastes are catered for. Live music venues offer everything from Rock to Opera. Enjoy world class performances at Vienna State Opera and experience the epicentre of international concert life at Musikverein. Modern and historical art can be found in indoor and outdoor spaces around the city, and a visit to the famous Kunsthistorisches Museum (KHM) is highly recommended. Enjoy views of the city from the Danube Tower and the Giant Ferris Wheel, then relax in the ample cosy coffee houses, cafes, bars and restaurants where traditional and international cuisines are served, as well as the locally produced wines.
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Day 4 Krems, Austria 18 Dec 2025 (Thursday)
Krems an der Donau is a city in Northeast Austria located approximately forty three miles from Vienna. The city is situated on the banks of the river Danube and is one of the oldest of the Wachau Valley. Krems prides itself on historical preservation and has recently been awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status. The history of the city dates back more than a thousand years with evidence found in its streets, squares, monasteries, churches and fortifications. Krems is also a modern city which celebrates its contemporary art and modern literature as well as being a leader in biotech applicatio... See moreKrems an der Donau is a city in Northeast Austria located approximately forty three miles from Vienna. The city is situated on the banks of the river Danube and is one of the oldest of the Wachau Valley. Krems prides itself on historical preservation and has recently been awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status. The history of the city dates back more than a thousand years with evidence found in its streets, squares, monasteries, churches and fortifications. Krems is also a modern city which celebrates its contemporary art and modern literature as well as being a leader in biotech application research. Exploring Krems is easily done on foot with city walking tours being very popular. Discover Old Krems and the Art Mile and learn about the city’s rich history at Museum Krems. As with many wine cities, food and drink is in abundance with popular restaurants and wine bars housed in historical buildings which enhance and deepen the dining and wine tasting experience.
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Day 5 Passau, Germany 19 Dec 2025 (Friday)
Passau is a German city located in the Southeast of Germany on the Austrian border. It is situated at the confluence of the rivers Danube, Inn and Ilz. The Three Rivers City, as it’s also known, is unique for its three contrasting currents of blue, green and black. Old Town of Passau is home to towering buildings of striking architecture: the majestic fortress Veste Oberhaus, the Pilgrimage Church Mariahilf and St Stephen's Cathedral. Many of Passau’s attractions can be found in this area, including the New Bishop’s Residence, the Gothic Town Hall, as well as many churches and museums. Visitor... See morePassau is a German city located in the Southeast of Germany on the Austrian border. It is situated at the confluence of the rivers Danube, Inn and Ilz. The Three Rivers City, as it’s also known, is unique for its three contrasting currents of blue, green and black. Old Town of Passau is home to towering buildings of striking architecture: the majestic fortress Veste Oberhaus, the Pilgrimage Church Mariahilf and St Stephen's Cathedral. Many of Passau’s attractions can be found in this area, including the New Bishop’s Residence, the Gothic Town Hall, as well as many churches and museums. Visitors can stroll along the riverfront promenades and romantic lanes whilst enjoying the picturesque landscape. For modern art, The Museum of Modern Art and Glass Museum Passau are recommended as they offer something a bit different. Theatre and cabaret are a popular evening pastime, with performances at the former Prince Bishopric Theatre or some lively cabaret and Jazz at the Scharfrichterhaus. Visitors will also find many traditional local Bavarian and Austrian cafes and restaurants offering a cosy atmosphere with home cooked food from local produce.
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Day 6 Regensburg, Germany 20 Dec 2025 (Saturday)
Regensburg is a medieval city of Bavaria in southeast Germany. It is situated on the northern point of the Danube River at its confluence with the Regen and Naab rivers. The city is famous for its iconic 12th Century stone bridge and sixteen arches, crossing the Danube into Old Town and is the oldest preserved bridge in Germany. Regensburg is also noted for its 13th Century Regensburg Cathedral and Gothic twin spires that feature prominently on the city’s skyline. Recently awarded UNESCO World Heritage status, the city is home to many preserved sites. Visit the the 2nd Century Porta Praetoria... See moreRegensburg is a medieval city of Bavaria in southeast Germany. It is situated on the northern point of the Danube River at its confluence with the Regen and Naab rivers. The city is famous for its iconic 12th Century stone bridge and sixteen arches, crossing the Danube into Old Town and is the oldest preserved bridge in Germany. Regensburg is also noted for its 13th Century Regensburg Cathedral and Gothic twin spires that feature prominently on the city’s skyline. Recently awarded UNESCO World Heritage status, the city is home to many preserved sites. Visit the the 2nd Century Porta Praetoria which served as the north gate to a Roman camp and St Peter’s Cathedral, with its French Gothic architecture. Also the 18th Century Thurn and Taxis Palace and the Old Town Hall, which is now home to the Imperial Diet Museum, are also worth a visit. Regensburg benefits from lots of parks and gardens for visitors to relax in, as well as walks and cycle paths along the banks of the rivers.
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Day 7 Nuremberg, Germany 21 Dec 2025 (Sunday)
Nuremberg is a medieval city located in northern Bavaria in Germany. It is Bavaria's second largest city and is noted for its iconic red roofed buildings and medieval architecture. The imperial Castle overlooks Nuremberg and was one of the most important fortifications of the Roman Empire. For more significant cultural history, the Germanisches Nationalmuseum, one of the largest cultural history museums in the German speaking world, offers visitors exhibitions from Prehistoric all the way to present day. Walking tours around the city offer an enjoyable and active way to learn of Nuremberg’s hi... See moreNuremberg is a medieval city located in northern Bavaria in Germany. It is Bavaria's second largest city and is noted for its iconic red roofed buildings and medieval architecture. The imperial Castle overlooks Nuremberg and was one of the most important fortifications of the Roman Empire. For more significant cultural history, the Germanisches Nationalmuseum, one of the largest cultural history museums in the German speaking world, offers visitors exhibitions from Prehistoric all the way to present day. Walking tours around the city offer an enjoyable and active way to learn of Nuremberg’s history and culture. Through Old Town, discover fountains, wells, churches, and art treasures, as well as learning of the colourful past and cosmopolitan present of the city and its people. Nuremberg is also home to one of the oldest Christmas markets in Germany, the Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt, where visitors can purchase traditional handmade decorations and enjoy the famous gingerbread, mulled wine, and grilled sausage from over one hundred and eighty wooden stalls.
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Day 8 Nuremberg, Germany 22 Dec 2025 (Monday)
Nuremberg is a medieval city located in northern Bavaria in Germany. It is Bavaria's second largest city and is noted for its iconic red roofed buildings and medieval architecture. The imperial Castle overlooks Nuremberg and was one of the most important fortifications of the Roman Empire. For more significant cultural history, the Germanisches Nationalmuseum, one of the largest cultural history museums in the German speaking world, offers visitors exhibitions from Prehistoric all the way to present day. Walking tours around the city offer an enjoyable and active way to learn of Nuremberg’s hi... See moreNuremberg is a medieval city located in northern Bavaria in Germany. It is Bavaria's second largest city and is noted for its iconic red roofed buildings and medieval architecture. The imperial Castle overlooks Nuremberg and was one of the most important fortifications of the Roman Empire. For more significant cultural history, the Germanisches Nationalmuseum, one of the largest cultural history museums in the German speaking world, offers visitors exhibitions from Prehistoric all the way to present day. Walking tours around the city offer an enjoyable and active way to learn of Nuremberg’s history and culture. Through Old Town, discover fountains, wells, churches, and art treasures, as well as learning of the colourful past and cosmopolitan present of the city and its people. Nuremberg is also home to one of the oldest Christmas markets in Germany, the Nuremberg Christkindlesmarkt, where visitors can purchase traditional handmade decorations and enjoy the famous gingerbread, mulled wine, and grilled sausage from over one hundred and eighty wooden stalls.
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What's Included:
- Award-winning Panorama Suites with beds that face the view.
- Avalon Choice® with your preference of Classic, Active, or Discovery included excursions and sightseeing every day.
- All onboard meals serving a la carte dinners.
- Complimentary sparkling wine with breakfast & wine, beer, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner.
- 'Happy Hour' serving complimentary wine, beer, spirits, and cocktails.
- Club Lounge with a 24-hour self-serve premium beverage station.
- Daily Afternoon Tea.
- Gratuities for the Cruise Director & Crew.
- Avalon Adventure Host available as your guide for fitness activities and active excursions.
- An expert Cruise Director.
- Complimentary Wi-Fi.
- Flights and overseas transfers.
Suites
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Avalon Deluxe Stateroom
Room Features
- Comfort Collection Beds
- Luxurious mattress toppers
- Egyptian super-combed cotton linens
- European-style duvets
- Soft & firm pillows
- Extra blankets
- Choice of bed configuration
- Nightly turn-down service
- Bedside tables with reading lamps
- Premium hairdryer
- L'Occitane bath products
- Spacious 3-door closets with shelves for ample storage
- Easy under-bed luggage storage
- Flatscreen satellite TV with English-speaking channels & over 50 free movie options
- Alarm clock
- Direct-dial telephone
- Bathrobes & slippers
- Well-stocked minibar
- Complimentary filtered water
- In-room safe
- Individual climate control
- Elegant, contemporary design
- Large mirror in bathroom
- Two windows
- Full shower with glass door
- Writing desk and chair
- Lighted makeup mirror
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- One Queen-Sized Bed or Two Twins
- USB Ports
Avalon Deluxe Stateroom
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Panorama Suite
Room Features
- Comfort Collection Beds
- Luxurious mattress toppers
- Egyptian super-combed cotton linens
- European-style duvets
- Soft & firm pillows
- Extra blankets
- Choice of bed configuration
- Nightly turn-down service
- Bedside tables with reading lamps
- Premium hairdryer
- L'Occitane bath products
- Spacious 3-door closets with shelves for ample storage
- Easy under-bed luggage storage
- Flatscreen satellite TV with English-speaking channels & over 50 free movie options
- Alarm clock
- Make-up mirror
- Direct-dial telephone
- Bathrobes & slippers
- Well-stocked minibar
- Complimentary filtered water
- In-room safe
- Individual climate control
- Elegant, contemporary design
- Large mirror in bathroom
- Marble countertops in bathroom
- Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Window with Open-Air Balcony
- 6-person sitting area
- Full shower with glass door
- Writing desk and chair
- Lighted makeup mirror
- Sofa
- Coffee table
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- One Queen-Sized Bed or Two Twins
- USB Ports
Panorama Suite
Panorama Suite
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Royal Suite
Room Features
- Comfort Collection Beds
- Luxurious mattress toppers
- Egyptian super-combed cotton linens
- European-style duvets
- Soft & firm pillows
- Extra blankets
- Choice of bed configuration
- Nightly turn-down service
- Bedside tables with reading lamps
- Premium hairdryer
- L'Occitane bath products
- Spacious 3-door closets with shelves for ample storage
- Easy under-bed luggage storage
- Flatscreen satellite TV with English-speaking channels & over 50 free movie options
- Alarm clock
- Make-up mirror
- Direct-dial telephone
- Bathrobes & slippers
- Well-stocked minibar
- Complimentary filtered water
- In-room safe
- Individual climate control
- Elegant, contemporary design
- Large mirror in bathroom
- Marble countertops in bathroom
- Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Window with Open-Air Balcony
- 6-person sitting area
- Full shower with glass door
- Writing desk and chair
- Lighted makeup mirror
- Sofa
- Coffee table
- Double sinks
- Complimentary Wi-Fi
- USB Ports
- One King-Sized Bed or Two Twins
Royal Suite
Royal Suite
Royal Suite
Restaurants
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Panorama Dining Room
A spacious, open-seating dining room with elegant dining service and large panoramic windows is situated on the Sapphire∘ deck. With an elegantly simple design, you can enjoy a full buffet breakfast or lunch with special options for those who wish to eat lightly, and delicious four-course dinners in the evening.
AVALON FRESH
With our exclusive Avalon Fresh menu, you can take an indulgent cruise without drifting from your healthy habits. From energizing juices at breakfast to artfully crafted salads at lunch to high-protein plates at dinner, Avalon Fresh options—including vegetarian and vegan specialties—are available at every meal so you can guiltlessly partake in creative cuisine without sacrificing great taste.
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Room Service
Room service is available for Continental breakfast & beverages.
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Sky Grill
On a sunny day, enjoy hand carved meats and expansive buffets including fresh salads and amazing homemade soups, all a view courtesy of the Sky Grill.
Deckplans
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Sky Deck
- Sky Lounge (1)
- Navigation Bridge (2)
- Sky Grill (3)
- Whirlpool (4)
- Premium Lounge Chairs and Shade Awnings (5)
- Deck Game Area (6)
- Sky Lounge (1)
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Royal Deck
- Observation Lounge (7)
- Panorama Bistro (8)
- Panorama Lounge (9)
- Bar (10)
- Reception (11)
- Adventure Center (12)
- Lobby (13)
- Elevator (14)
- Club Lounge (15)
- Cat. P Panorama Suites
- Royal Suites
- Observation Lounge (7)
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Sapphire Deck
- Galley (16)
- Dining Room (17)
- Cat. A & B Panorama Suites
- Galley (16)
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Indigo Deck
- Fitness Centre (18)
- Cat. D & E Deluxe Staterooms
- Fitness Centre (18)
Ready to Book?
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