A wonderful addition to any trip through the heart of Europe must surely be Paris, the capital of France and world-famous 'City of Light.' This enchanting capital is renowned for its uniquely romantic atmosphere and laid-back lifestyle. A simple stroll along one of its many tree-lined boulevards will reveal a plethora of World Heritage-listed monuments and panoramic views of the cityscape.

Paris is additionally a magical place to immerse yourself in Europe's enchanting festive season: from the twinkling Christmas lights along the world-famous Champs-Élysées and stunning window displays at Galeries Lafayette, to festive markets amid iconic heritage settings.

Your exciting journey through the heart of Europe includes a three-night stay in a centrally-located hotel in Paris. Later, enjoy meeting your tour director and fellow guests for a welcome drink.

Today, you'll have time to explore incredible Paris at leisure following your included tour. This is a marvellous opportunity to soak up the season’s festive cheer across the delightful ‘City of Light.’ Explore one of the city’s atmospheric Christmas markets, such as the Tuileries Garden and Notre Dame, shopping for artisan handicrafts and indulging in delicious festive treats like mulled wine and roasted chestnuts. Or perhaps take an evening stroll along the banks of the Seine to admire the beautiful Christmas lights and illuminations, including the dazzling Eiffel Tower light show.

Your tour director will be more than happy to plan your explorations in this Iconic city.

Included Excursion
Guided bus tour of Paris and Seine River cruise
Join an expert local guide for a guided tour of Paris, touching on some of the capital's iconic landmarks. The Notre-Dame de Paris is certain to delight, presenting one of the finest examples of French Gothic architecture in the world. So too, the Arc de Triomphe, standing tall to one side of the famous Champs-Élysées boulevard. Later, you'll embark on a river cruise along the Seine River, glimpsing the striking Eiffel Tower and many other captivating sights as you see the city from a different perspective.

The storied beauty of Paris is yours to discover independently today. You may choose to visit the magnificent Louvre Museum and witness the legendary Mona Lisa painting, or venture below the city’s streets to explore an intricate labyrinth of catacombs. You'll also have more time to enjoy the Christmas festivities while in Paris, perhaps sampling the Bûche de Noël (traditional Yule Log) in a charming tearoom, or taking in a wonderful Christmas concert or performance – from Handel’s ‘Messiah’ to ‘The Nutcracker’ ballet.

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Tastes of Paris (extra expense)
Today, on your guided walking tour, experience Parisian everyday life first-hand. Stroll through the most authentic medieval district of Paris, Le Marais, a former marshland and take in landmark sights that include the Place des Vosges, Hôtel de Sully, Rue des Rosiers and Jardin des Archives Nationales. You’ll also get to sample some delicious French pastries and other well-loved local treats in this wonderful ‘City of Light.’
Activity level: Moderate, Duration: 2.5 hours

This morning, after breakfast, you'll be transferred from Paris to Amsterdam by coach to board your contemporary Emerald Star-Ship, where you’ll be warmly welcomed by your captain and crew. This evening, join your fellow guests for a welcome dinner on board as you prepare for a memorable river cruise through the heart of Europe.

Amsterdam combines the unrivalled beauty of the 17th-century Golden Age city centre with plenty of museums and art of the highest order, not to mention a remarkably laid-back atmosphere. It all comes together to make this one of the world's most appealing and offbeat metropolises in the world. Built on a latticework of concentric canals like an aquatic rainbow, Amsterdam is known as the City of Canals—but it's no Venice, content to live on moonlight serenades and former glory. Quite the contrary: on nearly every street here you'll find old and new side by side—quiet corners where time seems to be holding its breath next to streets like neon-lit Kalverstraat, and Red Light ladies strutting by the city's oldest church. Indeed, Amsterdam has as many lovely facets as a 40-carat diamond polished by one of the city's gem cutters. It's certainly a metropolis, but a rather small and very accessible one. Locals tend to refer to it as a big village, albeit one that happens to pack the cultural wallop of a major world destination. There are scores of concerts every day, numerous museums, summertime festivals, and, of course, a legendary year-round party scene. It's pretty much impossible to resist Amsterdam's charms. With 7,000 registered monuments, most of which began as the residences and warehouses of humble merchants, set on 160 man-made canals, and traversed by 1,500 or so bridges, Amsterdam has the largest historical inner city in Europe. Its famous circle of waterways, the grachtengordel, was a 17th-century urban expansion plan for the rich and is a lasting testament to the city’s Golden Age. This town is endearing because of its kinder, gentler nature—but a reputation for championing sex, drugs, and rock ’n’ roll does not alone account for Amsterdam's being one of the most popular destinations in Europe: consider that within a single square mile the city harbours some of the greatest achievements in Western art, from Rembrandt to Van Gogh. Not to mention that this is one of Europe's great walking cities, with so many of its treasures in the untouted details: tiny alleyways barely visible on the map, hidden garden courtyards, shop windows, floating houseboats, hidden hofjes(courtyards with almshouses), sudden vistas of church spires, and gabled roofs that look like so many unframed paintings. And don’t forget that the joy lies in details: elaborate gables and witty gable stones denoting the trade of a previous owner. Keep in mind that those XXX symbols you see all over town are not a mark of the city's triple-X reputation. They're part of Amsterdam's official coat of arms—three St. Andrew's crosses, believed to represent the three dangers that have traditionally plagued the city: flood, fire, and pestilence. The coat's motto ("Valiant, determined, compassionate") was introduced in 1947 by Queen Wilhelmina in remembrance of the 1941 February Strike in Amsterdam—the first time in Europe that non-Jewish people protested against the persecution of Jews by the Nazi regime.

Amsterdam is a wonderful destination all year-round, but during the Christmas period, the entire city sparkles with fairy lights and Christmas cheer. Snow may blanket the narrow-cobbled streets, and the Dutch like to indulge in oliebollen and appelbeignets, deep-fried sweets that can be purchased from stalls that look like the traditional alpine huts in one of Amsterdam’s many Christmas markets.

Included Excursion
Visit to Festive Amsterdam
Amsterdam’s Christmas markets are a magical blend of festive lights, cosy stalls, and Dutch winter charm, accented with the scent of warm treats like stroopwafels and oliebollen. Popular spots like Museumplein’s Ice Village and the Funky Xmas Market in Westergas offer everything from handmade gifts to mulled wine and live music. Set against the backdrop of Amsterdam’s iconic canals, the markets create a warm, joyful atmosphere perfect for holiday shopping and seasonal cheer.

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Private hidden Gems Tour of Amsterdam (extra expense)
Explore a quieter, more authentic side of Amsterdam on this relaxed and personal tour. Travel to the historic Jordaan area to walk with your local guide to a charming chocolate shop. Continue through some of the city’s most beautiful streets to Our Lord in the Attic, a unique 17th-century house that hides a secret: a fully preserved Catholic church in its attic. Enjoy a local beer and some traditional Dutch snacks at a cosy brewery before you return to the ship.
Activity level: Moderate, Duration: 2.5 hour

The wafting aroma of freshly roasted chestnuts and mulled wine welcomes you to the 2,000-year-old city of Cologne, where the largest Christmas tree in the Rhineland can be found during the holiday season.

In Cologne’s many Christmas markets, you’ll find glittering ornaments, artisans creating handcrafted goods and freshly baked produce, including lebkuchen, a beloved round or heart-shaped type of gingerbread that usually includes honey, cardamom, or candied fruit. Enjoy drinking mulled wine from a festive mug as you soak in the views of what is arguably one of the best Christmas markets in Europe.

Included Excursion
Quest for Cologne’s treasures
Uncover local delicacies and cultural gems at your own pace while seeking the treasures of Cologne. You’ll be given a map with locations to find the ‘treasures’, which are unique to the city of Cologne. Guides are on standby at these checkpoints to assist.

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German beer experience (extra expense)
Discover the spirited beer culture of Cologne on this lively and flavourful guided tour through the city's legendary brewhouses. Cologne is the proud home of Kölsch - a crisp, golden beer brewed only in this region - and no visit is complete without experiencing it as a local.
Activity level: Easy, Duration: 2 hour

This morning will be a highlight of your trip, as you meander through the fairy tale-like surrounds of the World Heritage-listed Rhine Gorge. Hilltop castles and fortresses that have stood for more than 1,000 years will be yours to admire as we traverse this legendary stretch of river.

Later, dock in Rüdesheim, where the half-timbered houses will be covered in fairy lights. Rüdesheim hosts the ‘Christmas Market of Nations’, where more than 100 stalls represent over a dozen nations, each showcasing their own Christmas specialities, customs and celebrations.

Included Excursion
A visit to Siegfried’s Mechanical Music Cabinet Museum
Catch the small Winzerexpress train through the narrow city streets to Siegfried's Mechanical Music Cabinet Museum. Inside, discover a vast selection of more than 350 automatic mechanical music instruments ranging from the tiniest music box to the giant Concert-Piano-Orchestrion.

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Eberbach Abbey with wine tasting (extra expense)
Founded in 1136 by St. Bernard of Clairvaux, Eberbach Abbey is one of the best-preserved medieval monasteries in the Rheingau Region and boasts the largest medieval vineyard in the country. During your visit, you'll have the opportunity to indulge in a Riesling wine tasting, experiencing the vibrant flavours of the region.
Activity level: Easy, Duration: 3.5 hours

Welcome to Miltenberg, a postcard-worthy town set against the lush backdrop of the Odenwald forest. Christmastime swathes the area with festive cheer, with decorations and colourful window displays illuminated at dusk by twinkling fairy lights. Miltenberg is home to one of the oldest pubs in Germany, and its delightful boutique market features stalls full of local arts, crafts, and delightful treats. Perhaps try an apple streusel kuchen during your time here, a type of apple crumb cake that the area is famous for.

Included Excursion
A guided tour of Miltenberg
Join your local guide to stroll down the cobblestone streets lined with colourful houses and view the Gothic Merchant Hall, an impressive symbol of past affluence. You’ll see the oldest inn in Germany, dating back to at least 1411, Miltenberg Castle, and the unique red sandstone church and bridge.

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Bronnbach Abbey with concert and tasting
Experience the rich history and serene beauty of Bronnbach Abbey in nearby Wertheim. This well-preserved Cistercian monastery is known for its stunning Romanesque and Gothic architecture, peaceful cloisters, and impressive Baroque interiors. Enjoy a private concert and wine tasting.

Located at the confluence of the Tauber and Main rivers, Wertheim is a German town best known for picturesque medieval architecture, including the impressive Wertheim Castle overlooking the quaint Old Town. The cobblestone streets are testament to the town's rich history, and the timber-framed houses paint a vivid picture of Germany's past.

Known as the ‘Pearl of the Romantic Road’, Würzburg is the wine capital of Franconia, a position it has held since the Middle Ages. It is surrounded by sloping vineyards famous for their white wines, particularly the unique silvaner variety and the distinctive bocksbeuter rounded bottles. Nestled in the heart of the Old Town, you’ll find an enchanting Christmas market. Steeped in 19th-century beginnings, more than 100 wooden stalls showcase seasonal decorations and delectable treats, all coated by the soft glow of Christmas lights. A traditional mug of glühwein, a hot red wine infused with spices, is the best way to fight off the chill of a cold day.

Included Excursion
A walking tour of Würzburg and visit to the Bishops Residence
The architects behind the World Heritage-listed Würzburg Residence drew inspiration from a range of different styles, including Viennese Baroque and secular features from Italy, which was heavily damaged during World War II. Enjoy learning about how this impressive building was restored to its former glory on a guided tour.

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Excursion to Rothenburg (extra expense)
Explore the best-preserved medieval town in Germany, which is even more magical when decorated for Christmas. Walk its medieval walls and climb to the top of the Town Hall Tower for a panoramic view of the town and countryside. Rothenburg offers a selection of Gothic churches, museums, art exhibitions and historic restaurants where you’ll enjoy a special tasting of local sausages.
Activity level: Moderate, Duration: 6.5 hours

The World Heritage-listed town of Bamberg is home to not just one, but four delightful Christmas markets, each acting as sparkling gems set amongst half-timbered surrounds. Here, you’ll be able to find some of the loveliest Baroque nativity scenes that Germany has to offer.

Make sure to stop and try a glass of Bamberg’s famous beer. Nine breweries call the town home, and several of their world-famous products are still made using traditional Franconian brewing methods.

Included Excursion
A guided tour of Bamberg
Feel the magic of the past as you explore the city with your local guide, marvelling at the opulence of the New Residence, once inhabited by the prince bishops and now home to a plethora of old German and Baroque paintings from the Bavarian State collection. Enjoy a tranquil stroll around the Rose Garden to round your day off peacefully.

Welcome to Nuremberg. The second-largest city in Bavaria, it has a storied and complex history, from its position of power in the Middle Ages to its key role during the Nazi Party rallies. You’ll also be able to explore the wonderful Christmas market located in the city centre.

Included Excursion
A guided tour of Nuremberg
Embark on a sightseeing tour of this historic city, including the architectural wonders that have inspired famous artists for centuries and explore the effects that the war years had. After your tour, enjoy time to explore Nuremberg at leisure, passing half-timbered houses that were beautifully reconstructed following the war.

One of Germany’s best-preserved medieval cities welcomes you with two millennia of history. Despite its ancient past, modern-day Regensburg has a relaxed atmosphere, with its streets made lively by the high population of university students.

Included Excursion
A guided tour of Regensburg
Set out on foot to discover the highlights of Regensburg. Wander the streets with your guide, as the romantic narrow alleys of the World Heritage-listed Old Town and 13th-century Town Hall invite you to live through the city’s history. The highlight of your tour will be the 12th-century Stone Bridge, a medieval structure crossing the Danube. Enjoy time to explore Regensburg at leisure

EmeraldPLUS
A visit to the Christmas market in the Thurn and Taxis Palace grounds
Walk to the grounds of Thurn & Taxis Castle with the guide. Learn about the historical importance of the castle and the family who lived there for hundreds of years. After, explore on your own and visit the Christmas market. You’ll also get a voucher for a cup of glühwein to be redeemed in one of the stalls.

EmeraldPLUS
A traditional Bavarian band on board
Make your way to the Horizon Bar & Lounge for a special performance from a Bavarian band, who will play traditional music and wear their authentic Lederhosen.

Welcome to Passau, a town where three of Europe’s main rivers converge underneath the castle. This memorable destination is dominated by large squares, magical promenades and romantic lanes. In front of the green-domed façade of St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Passau’s annual Christkindlmarkt can be found. Here, you can sample some delicious warm Glühwein and freshly baked goods.

Included Excursion
A guided tour of Passau
On this morning’s walking tour, stroll through streets lined by Baroque buildings dating back to the 17th century and look at the Gothic Town Hall, Bishop’s Residence and St. Stephen’s Cathedral, a wonderful example of Baroque architecture and home to the largest church organ in Europe.

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Excursion to Salzburg (extra expense)
The birthplace of Mozart and the picturesque setting for the theatrical masterpiece, The Sound of Music, Salzburg has a unique charm and is surrounded by the breathtaking Alps. Spend a full day exploring this Austrian city, wandering its historic downtown district, exploring the Linzer Gasse shopping street and visiting the home of Mozart.
Activity level: Easy, Duration: 10 hours

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Excursion to Ceský Krumlov (extra expense)
Tucked away in the Czech region of South Bohemia is the World Heritage-listed medieval town of Ceský Krumlov, renowned for its Renaissance and Baroque architecture. Your expert local guide will take you along the cobblestone streets of Ceský Krumlov’s fairytale-like Old Town, which wind their way past old townhouses, hideaway bars, and buildings dating back hundreds of years.
Activity level: Difficult/Active, Duration: 8.5 hours

The quaint village of Melk offers a wonderful introduction to some of the historic architecture that can be found on the continent. Melk sparkles over Christmas, from the beautifully decorated buildings to the lively festive market.

Cruise to Dürnstein in the afternoon, arriving with enough time to explore at leisure for the rest of the day and take advantage of your overnight stay.

Included Excursion
A tour of Melk Abbey
Explore this ancient abbey today on an included tour. Your guide will take you through a series of opulent rooms, each adorned with the finest Italian Baroque architecture and ornate gold leaf walls, including the ancient monastic library, renowned for its extensive collection of medieval manuscripts.

Welcome to the ‘City of Music’, Vienna. This ornate cityscape was home to famous musicians and composers like Mozart and Beethoven, and the father of psychoanalysis, Sigmund Freud. It has a magical atmosphere over Christmas, with elaborate decorations and more than 20 festive markets.

Included Excursion
A guided tour of Vienna
Explore the famous sights of the Ringstrasse and Vienna’s city centre by coach and on foot, or join a guided bike tour. Marvel at the Renaissance-style arches that adorn the façades of the Opera House, the Baroque Burgtheater and the Flemish Gothic Parliament. Afterwards, enjoy some time to explore at leisure, perhaps sampling some delicious hot chocolate and baked goods at a Christmas market

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Visit to Schönbrunn Palace (extra expense)
Schönbrunn Palace, the former summer residence of the Habsburg Empire, is considered one of the most beautiful Baroque palaces in Europe. Today, it is a recognised World Heritage site for its historic importance, unique grounds and splendid furnishings. Follow a local expert to hear the fascinating tales of the intriguing former residents.
Activity level: Easy, Duration: 5 hours

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Viennese evening concert (extra expense)
With Mozart, Beethoven, Strauss and Schubert among its historical repertoire, Vienna is the world capital of opera and classical music. Enjoy an exclusive evening concert at one of Vienna’s most beautiful concert halls, with favourites such as the ‘Blue Danube Waltz’ and the ‘Radetzky March’. A complimentary glass of sparkling wine on arrival adds to the unforgettable occasion.
Activity level: Easy, Duration: 2.5 hours

Gothic architecture and fascinating tales of a Communist past welcome you to Bratislava, a capital that has seen much turbulence over the past century. Set at the crossroads of ancient trade routes, this is a place where Baroque palaces, boutiques and cafés adorn medieval cobblestone streets. The Christmas season adds an extra layer to the city, where a blend of distinctive cultures comes together to showcase their handcrafted ornaments and delicious treats.

Included Excursion
A walking tour of Bratislava
Enjoy a sightseeing tour including the enchanting Old City. Your local guide will take you through the heart of the city. Pass by the botanical gardens of the Episcopal Summer Palace, the Old Town Hall and its delightful Renaissance courtyard and the Slovak National Theatre, where busts of famous composers adorn the façade. After your tour, enjoy free time to explore at leisure.

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Home-hosted coffee and cake with a local Slovakian family
Be invited into the home of a local Slovakian family to learn about their culture over coffee and cake. Get an insight into their history, culture and traditions as they show you how they live every day.

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Explore the viticultural towns of the Small Carpathian Wine Route, including the vineyards of Vinosady and a family-run winery in Senkvice. You’ll learn about the proud heritage of winemaking and sample some local wines in a historic wine cellar.
Activity level: Moderate, Duration 4hr 40min

Budapest is a place of striking contrasts, with Buda on one side housing a generous scattering of the city’s elegant landmarks, and Pest on the other encapsulating its fascinating past. Separated by the mighty Danube, you can explore them both by crossing the Chain Bridge, one of the most symbolic structures in the capital. At Christmas, it becomes a magical winter wonderland of decorations, lights and festive cheer.

This evening, relax on board as you enjoy an authentic Hungarian folklore show.

Included Excursion
A guided coach tour of Budapest
Enjoy a guided tour of the city with your local guide this morning. Explore the World Heritage-listed centre, travelling through the chapters of architecture through the ages from Romanesque to Baroque and classical façades. See the Liberty Statue, Heroes’ Square and the Buda Castle district, before a walking tour showcases Matthias Church and the Fisherman’s Bastion. Afterwards, explore the Christmas market.

EmeraldPLUS
A traditional Hungarian folklore show
Enjoy a traditional Hungarian dinner, then a Hungarian folk dancing and music performance on board.

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Excursion to Szentendre (extra expense)

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Excursion to Szentendre (extra expense)
Visit the picturesque village of Szentendre, where cobblestone streets evoke a Mediterranean atmosphere that has inspired many artists. Take a walking tour through the pedestrian city centre to admire the Baroque architecture, churches, colourful houses and narrow, cobbled streets. The main square, Fo Tér, and the alleyways around it are lined with art galleries, museums and shops.
Activity level: Moderate, Duration: 4 hours

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Jewish heritage tour (extra expense)
During this thoughtful tour, your local guide will introduce you to some of the most significant Jewish events that have shaped Budapest's culture. See the buildings that once played important roles in the flourishing Jewish trade that existed prior to World War II. In Pest, the 'Shoes on the Danube' memorial stands as a striking reminder of what happened to the Jewish communities in Budapest during wartime.
Activity level: Moderate, Duration: 4 hours

In the vibrant Hungarian capital, Budapest, disembark your luxury Emerald Star-Ship and be transferred by coach to Prague, home to some of the world’s most pristine collections of architecture from across the ages. Once in the Czech capital, you'll settle into your centrally located hotel for your included three-night stay. Later, enjoy meeting your fellow guests and tour director for a convivial welcome drink.

Soak in the sights of Prague on your included morning tour. Later, you may continue exploring the city at leisure.

Included Excursion
Guided city tour of Prague
The heart of Prague is an enchanting treasure trove, showcasing some of Europe’s finest and most well-preserved architectural marvels from various eras. Begin your included tour by exploring three magnificent castle courtyards before stepping into the awe-inspiring St. Vitus Cathedral. From here, descend the Castle Steps, where breathtaking views of Prague unfold before your eyes. Next, stroll across the iconic Charles Bridge, leading you to the charming Old Town and the legendary Astronomical Clock in the vibrant Old Town Square, leaving you captivated by Prague’s timeless beauty.  

EmeraldPLUS
Coffee & Cake at Lobkowicz Palace
Enjoy a moment of sheer indulgence at Lobkowicz Palace, one of the most significant cultural sites in the Czech Republic. Here, freshly brewed coffee and delicate pastries are served against a backdrop of aristocratic charm and history.

Your tour director will be available to help you plan your day of independent explorations in Prague, a city regarded as one of Europe’s most magical.

We recommend visiting one of Prague’s memorable Christmas markets, where colourful stalls owned by local craftsmen are brimming with handcrafted ornaments and freshly baked Czech Christmas treats.

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Tastes of Czechia (extra expense)
During this fascinating tour, you can learn all about the wonderful variety of Czech wines. A short walk from your hotel will take you through some of the city's interesting hidden corners, before arriving at a local restaurant. Meet your sommelier and enjoy a welcome drink of Czech sparkling wine, followed by a selection of red, white and Rosé wines; each one is accompanied by traditional charcuterie and cheeses carefully selected to complement every glass.
Activity level: Easy, Duration: 2.5 hours