Iconic Christmas Markets

Nov 25 - Dec 4, 2028

In 2025, I experienced my first European Christmas while sailing the Rhine River. I expected beautiful scenery and charming Christmas markets, but what I discovered was something even more meaningful. There was a feeling of warmth, tradition, and wonder that simply can't be captured in photos. From the glow of market lights reflecting on the river to the scent of mulled wine and fresh gingerbread filling historic town squares, it felt like stepping into the Christmases we all imagine as children.

When I returned home, I knew one thing for certain—I wasn't finished experiencing the magic of Europe's Christmas markets. There were still more cities to discover, more traditions to experience, and more unforgettable moments waiting along the Danube. That's why I'm so excited to invite you to join me on this journey.

Together, we'll sail through Germany, Austria, and Hungary, where centuries-old holiday traditions transform historic cities into enchanting winter wonderlands. From festive market squares and magnificent cathedrals to local holiday treats and handcrafted treasures, each destination offers its own unique way of celebrating the season.

One of the things I love most about river cruising is how effortlessly you experience Europe. Your boutique hotel travels with you, so you unpack just once while waking up in a new destination almost every morning. Between festive excursions, you'll return to the comfort of your AmaWaterways ship for exceptional dining, warm hospitality, and cozy spaces that feel especially magical during the holidays.

This journey is about more than checking destinations off a list. It's about slowing down, embracing the traditions of the season, and sharing an experience that stays with you long after the decorations have come down. I can't wait to discover even more of Europe's Christmas magic—and I'd love for you to experience it with me.

Itinerary

Sat, Nov 25: Nuremberg, Germany
1. Depart the US for Germany
Sun, Nov 26: Nuremberg, Germany
1. Check-in Nuremberg Hotel TBD
Mon, Nov 27: Regensburg, Germany
Tue, Nov 28: Passau, Germany
1. Nuremberg
Wed, Nov 29: Melk, Austria
1. Regensburg
Thu, Nov 30: Vienna, Austria
1. Passau
Fri, Dec 1: Budapest, Hungary
1. Melk
2. Vienna
Sat, Dec 2: Budapest, Hungary
1. Vienna
Sun, Dec 3: Nuremberg, Germany
1. Budapest
Mon, Dec 4: Nuremberg, Germany
1. Budapest

Full Itinerary

Early Booking Rewards
If booked before September 30, 2026, each person will will receive $750 off on this sailing. In addition, the automatic $250 per person discount.
What is INCLUDED?
- Seven nights aboard an award-winning AmaBella
- Elegant accommodations with daily housekeeping
- Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks featuring locally inspired cuisine
- Unlimited wine, beer, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner
- Complimentary Sip & Sail cocktail hour each evening
- Specialty coffees, teas, bottled water, and sparkling wine with breakfast
- A variety of included shore excursions in every destination
- Complimentary use of onboard bicycles
- Wellness activities and fitness classes
- High-speed Wi-Fi throughout the ship
- Evening entertainment and cultural enrichment
All Tour Experiences Included
The beauty of AmaWaterways is their all-included sailing. No added excursion costs. One price. All-Included.
- Immersive tours in every destination
- Gentle, regular, active and late-riser tour options
- Bike tours and hikes
- Local Flavors tours
- Knowledgeable guides
- Personal headset for easy exploration
What is NOT INCLUDED?
- Port charges ($290 per person)
- Airfare
- Optional pre- and post-cruise land packages
- Travel protection
- Personal expenses and optional excursions not included in the itinerary
Ship Layout & Details
Newly reimagined, AmaBella blends elegant design with the luxury of uncrowded spaces. With fewer guests on board, intimate dining rooms and cozy lounges create a warm atmosphere that makes every moment feel personal. AmaBella was newly re-imagined in 2021, blending elegant design with a welcoming, intimate atmosphere. Some staterooms feature a rare combination of two balconies — a step-out balcony where you can sit outside and a French balcony, a floor-to-ceiling glass door that slides open to let in fresh air and views. Guests can choose from three dining venues, including the Main Restaurant, The Chef’s Table, and the casual Café Bistro, each with its own style. A heated Sun Deck pool, cozy lounges, a fitness room, and a massage and hair salon round out the ship’s amenities, while itineraries along the Rhine and Danube connect you with some of Europe’s most iconic scenery.
With 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.
Dining Options
AmaBella has three dining options on board. The Main Restaurant is the ship’s fine dining option, while The Chef’s Table is ideal for intimate multi-course tastings, and the casual Café Bistro is a relaxed spot for light lunches, cards, or mingling with fellow guests. Each venue is designed to feel welcoming, with menus that reflect the regions you’re sailing through. Dietary needs such as vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free are happily accommodated.
Wellness and Fitness Options
Yes. AmaBella has a fitness room, massage services, as well as a walking track on the Sun Deck. Guests also enjoy a heated pool with a swim-up bar, making it easy to balance active time with relaxation.