Christmas Markets Along the Danube - Eastbound
Date
2026-12-08
Duration
7 nights
Departure Port
Nuremberg
Germany
Arrival Port
Vienna
Austria
Rating
Classic
Theme
—
Tauck
MS Joy
Inspiration
Launched
2016
Refitted
—
Tonnage
3,600 GT
Passengers
130
Cabins
67
Crew
39
Length
135 m
Width
11.4 m
Speed
12 knots
Adults Only
No
Itinerary
Day 1
Day 1
Nuremberg
Nuremberg commands the imagination on two levels: as the glittering medieval city where Holy Roman Emperors held court, Albrecht Dürer was born, and craftsmen produced the first pocket watch — and as the site of the 20th century's darkest chapter, where Nazi rallies and subsequent war crimes trials left permanent marks on European history and conscience. The Kaiserburg castle crowning the hill above the perfectly preserved old town offers sweeping views of a cityscape that, despite wartime bombing, remains one of Germany's most beautiful. The Documentation Centre on the former Nazi Rally Grounds is essential, sobering history; the Christmas Market on the Hauptmarkt, held since 1628, is among Europe's finest. Visit May through October or December.
Day 3
Day 3
Regensburg
Regensburg, Bavaria's medieval masterpiece on the Danube, is one of Central Europe's most intact ancient cities — its Roman origins visible in the Porta Praetoria stone gate, its medieval prosperity celebrated in the soaring twin towers of St. Peter's Cathedral and the twelfth-century Stone Bridge. UNESCO World Heritage status acknowledges a skyline dotted with patrician towers, while the famous Historische Wurstküchl, Germany's oldest operating sausage kitchen, has been serving spit-grilled bratwurst since the 1140s. The surrounding hills produce excellent Bavarian whites. May through September offers the most convivial riverbank atmosphere.
Day 4
Day 4
Passau
Passau occupies one of Central Europe's most dramatic natural stages — a narrow peninsula at the confluence of three rivers, the Danube, Inn, and Ilz, where the old town's baroque spires and shuttered merchants' houses crowd the very tip of the land between the waters. St. Stephen's Cathedral houses the world's largest church organ, a 17,974-pipe instrument whose daily concerts fill the nave with a sound that seems architectural in its density. The Veste Oberhaus fortress above the city commands panoramic views across three countries on clear days. Passau is a classic Danube river cruise departure point; spring and early autumn, when the river runs high and the light turns golden, are the finest seasons.
Day 5
Day 5
Salzburg
Salzburg is a baroque masterpiece set against the Eastern Alps, where Mozart's birthplace, the mighty Hohensalzburg Fortress, and one of Europe's oldest restaurants create a cultural tapestry unlike any other Austrian city. Visitors should not miss the Salzburger Nockerl soufflé at a centuries-old dining room and an evening concert in one of the Altstadt's intimate recital halls. The city is magnificent year-round, though late spring through early autumn — particularly during the Salzburg Festival in July and August — offers the finest confluence of weather, culture, and river cruising conditions.
Day 6
Day 6
Melk
Melk Abbey is among the most theatrical expressions of Baroque ambition in all of Europe — a gilded monastery perched on a granite outcrop above the Danube, its domed church and frescoed library presiding over the Wachau Valley with serene authority since Benedictine monks replaced the Babenberg fortress in 1089. Umberto Eco immortalised it as the inspiration for his labyrinthine monastery in "The Name of the Rose," and the library's 100,000 medieval manuscripts remain one of the continent's supreme collections. After the abbey, stroll down to the historic market town and sample the valley's celebrated Grüner Veltliner wines. The Wachau is at its most bewitching in April and October.
Day 7
Day 7
Vienna
The port of Vienna is a cultural gem along the Danube River, famous for its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant culinary scene. Must-do experiences include sampling authentic Wiener Schnitzel and visiting the picturesque village of Dürnstein. The best season to visit is spring or early fall, when the city's gardens bloom and outdoor activities abound.
Day 1
Nuremberg
Nuremberg commands the imagination on two levels: as the glittering medieval city where Holy Roman Emperors held court, Albrecht Dürer was born, and craftsmen produced the first pocket watch — and as the site of the 20th century's darkest chapter, where Nazi rallies and subsequent war crimes trials left permanent marks on European history and conscience. The Kaiserburg castle crowning the hill above the perfectly preserved old town offers sweeping views of a cityscape that, despite wartime bombing, remains one of Germany's most beautiful. The Documentation Centre on the former Nazi Rally Grounds is essential, sobering history; the Christmas Market on the Hauptmarkt, held since 1628, is among Europe's finest. Visit May through October or December.
Day 3
Regensburg
Regensburg, Bavaria's medieval masterpiece on the Danube, is one of Central Europe's most intact ancient cities — its Roman origins visible in the Porta Praetoria stone gate, its medieval prosperity celebrated in the soaring twin towers of St. Peter's Cathedral and the twelfth-century Stone Bridge. UNESCO World Heritage status acknowledges a skyline dotted with patrician towers, while the famous Historische Wurstküchl, Germany's oldest operating sausage kitchen, has been serving spit-grilled bratwurst since the 1140s. The surrounding hills produce excellent Bavarian whites. May through September offers the most convivial riverbank atmosphere.
Day 4
Passau
Passau occupies one of Central Europe's most dramatic natural stages — a narrow peninsula at the confluence of three rivers, the Danube, Inn, and Ilz, where the old town's baroque spires and shuttered merchants' houses crowd the very tip of the land between the waters. St. Stephen's Cathedral houses the world's largest church organ, a 17,974-pipe instrument whose daily concerts fill the nave with a sound that seems architectural in its density. The Veste Oberhaus fortress above the city commands panoramic views across three countries on clear days. Passau is a classic Danube river cruise departure point; spring and early autumn, when the river runs high and the light turns golden, are the finest seasons.
Day 5
Salzburg
Salzburg is a baroque masterpiece set against the Eastern Alps, where Mozart's birthplace, the mighty Hohensalzburg Fortress, and one of Europe's oldest restaurants create a cultural tapestry unlike any other Austrian city. Visitors should not miss the Salzburger Nockerl soufflé at a centuries-old dining room and an evening concert in one of the Altstadt's intimate recital halls. The city is magnificent year-round, though late spring through early autumn — particularly during the Salzburg Festival in July and August — offers the finest confluence of weather, culture, and river cruising conditions.
Day 6
Melk
Melk Abbey is among the most theatrical expressions of Baroque ambition in all of Europe — a gilded monastery perched on a granite outcrop above the Danube, its domed church and frescoed library presiding over the Wachau Valley with serene authority since Benedictine monks replaced the Babenberg fortress in 1089. Umberto Eco immortalised it as the inspiration for his labyrinthine monastery in "The Name of the Rose," and the library's 100,000 medieval manuscripts remain one of the continent's supreme collections. After the abbey, stroll down to the historic market town and sample the valley's celebrated Grüner Veltliner wines. The Wachau is at its most bewitching in April and October.
Day 7
Vienna
The port of Vienna is a cultural gem along the Danube River, famous for its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant culinary scene. Must-do experiences include sampling authentic Wiener Schnitzel and visiting the picturesque village of Dürnstein. The best season to visit is spring or early fall, when the city's gardens bloom and outdoor activities abound.
Cabin Categories
Category 1 | Emerald Deck
Inside
CAT1
Private Balcony:
No
Beds:
2 European twin beds that can slide together; 200 cm x 156 cm (two beds 200 cm x 78 cm each when separate); 79" x 61" (two beds 79" x 31"); 4 pieces of luggage can be stored under beds
Stateroom Furnishings:
Built-in closet with drawers, 2 chairs, 400 thread count cotton linens\white duvets and pillows of mako cotton with 90% down filling
Private Bathroom:
Yes, with shower
Bathroom Amenities:
Molton Brown toiletries – a Tauck Exclusive, Terry-cloth bathrobe plus slippers
Stateroom Amenities:
Two 2' by 3' fixed windows, Minibar stocked with complimentary water and soft drinks replenished daily, 32" LED TV, 220v and 110v outlets in cabin and bathroom, Easy under-bed luggage storage, Telephone, safe and individual climate control, Onboard wi-fi available
View Details
Category 2 | Ruby Deck
Inside
CAT2
Suite Dimensions:
150 sq. ft.
Private Balcony:
French
Beds:
2 European twin beds that can slide together; 200 cm x 156 cm (two beds 200 cm x 78 cm each when separate); 79" x 61" (two beds 79" x 31"); 4 pieces of luggage can be stored under beds
Stateroom Furnishings:
Built-in closet with drawers, 2 chairs, 400 thread count cotton linens\white duvets and pillows of mako cotton with 90% down filling
Private Bathroom:
Yes, with shower
Bathroom Amenities:
Molton Brown toiletries – a Tauck Exclusive, Terry-cloth bathrobe plus slippers
Stateroom Amenities:
One floor-to-ceiling French Balcony (98 inches wide x 75 inches high) with one sliding door that opens, Minibar stocked with complimentary water and soft drinks replenished daily, 32" LED TV,220v and 110v outlets in cabin and bathroom, Easy under-bed luggage storage, Telephone, safe and individual climate control, Onboard wi-fi available
View Details
Category 3 | Emerald Deck
Inside
CAT3
Private Balcony:
No
Beds:
2 European twin beds that can slide together; 200 cm x 160 cm (two beds 200 cm x 80 cm each when separate); 79" x 63" (two beds 79" x 31.5"); 4 pieces of luggage can be stored under beds
Stateroom Furnishings:
Padded headboard with reading lamps, Closets, Storage / drawers, 4 steps up to loft area, Railing, Built-in closet with drawers, 400 thread count cotton linens / white duvets and pillows of mako cotton with 90% down filling
Private Bathroom:
Yes, with shower
Bathroom Amenities:
Molton Brown toiletries – a Tauck Exclusive, Terry-cloth bathrobes plus slippers, Full-sized bathroom featuring enhanced lighting, additional storage and a hair dryer, Large shower featuring rainfall shower head
Stateroom Amenities:
Innovatively designed 225 sq. ft. "split-level" loft cabins, One-and-a-half deck window that opens at the top, electronically controlled, Loft sitting area, Safe, Minibar stocked with complimentary water and soft drinks, replenished daily, 32" LED TV , Window (98 inches x 114 inches) can be partially opened, 220v and 110v outlets in cabin and bathroom, Easy under-bed luggage storage, Telephone and individual climate control, Onboard wi-fi available
View Details
Category 4 | Ruby Deck
Inside
CAT4
Private Balcony:
French
Beds:
2 European twin beds that can slide together; 200 cm x 160 cm (two beds 200 cm x 80 cm each when separate); 79" x 63" (two beds 79" x 31.5"); 4 pieces of luggage can be stored under beds
Stateroom Furnishings:
Built-in closet and drawers, 2 chairs, 400 thread count cotton linens\white duvets and pillows of mako cotton with 90% down filling
Private Bathroom:
Yes, with shower
Bathroom Amenities:
Molton Brown toiletries – a Tauck Exclusive, Terry-cloth bathrobe plus slippers, Bathroom with larger showers with rainfall shower heads, enhanced lighting, and under-sink storage space
Stateroom Amenities:
One floor-to-ceiling French Balcony (98 inches wide x 75 inches high) with one sliding door that opens, Minibar stocked with complimentary water and soft drinks replenished daily, 32" LED TV, 220v and 110v outlets in cabin and bathroom, Easy under-bed luggage storage, Telephone, safe and individual climate control, Onboard wi-fi available
View Details
Category 5 | Diamond Deck
Inside
Category 5 | Diamond Deck
CAT5
Private Balcony:
French
Beds:
2 European twin beds that can slide together; 200 cm x 160 cm (two beds 200 cm x 80 cm each when separate); 79" x 63" (two beds 79" x 31.5"); 4 pieces of luggage can be stored under beds
Stateroom Furnishings:
Padded headboard with reading lamps, Large closet, Storage / drawers, 400 thread count cotton linens / white duvets and pillows of mako cotton with 90% down filling
Private Bathroom:
Yes, with shower
Bathroom Amenities:
Molton Brown toiletries – a Tauck Exclusive, Terry-cloth bathrobes plus slippers, Full-size bathroom featuring enhanced lighting, additional storage and hair dryer, Large shower featuring rainfall shower head
Stateroom Amenities:
One floor-to-ceiling French balcony (98 inches x 75 inches) with one sliding door that opens, 32" LED TV, Safe, Minibar stocked with complimentary water and soft drinks, replenished daily, 220v and 110v outlets in cabin and bathroom, Easy under-bed luggage storage, Telephone and individual climate control, Onboard wi-fi available
View Details
Category 5 | Ruby Deck
Inside
CAT5
Private Balcony:
French
Beds:
2 European twin beds that can slide together; 200 cm x 160 cm (two beds 200 cm x 80 cm each when separate); 79" x 63" (two beds 79" x 31.5"); 4 pieces of luggage can be stored under beds
Stateroom Furnishings:
Padded headboard with reading lamps, Large closet, Storage / drawers, 400 thread count cotton linens / white duvets and pillows of mako cotton with 90% down filling
Private Bathroom:
Yes, with shower
Bathroom Amenities:
Molton Brown toiletries – a Tauck Exclusive, Terry-cloth bathrobes plus slippers, Full-size bathroom featuring enhanced lighting, additional storage and hair dryer, Large shower featuring rainfall shower head
Stateroom Amenities:
One floor-to-ceiling French balcony (98 inches x 75 inches) with one sliding door that opens, 32" LED TV, Safe, Minibar stocked with complimentary water and soft drinks, replenished daily, 220v and 110v outlets in cabin and bathroom, Easy under-bed, luggage storage, Telephone and individual climate control, Onboard wi-fi available
View Details
Category 6 | Ruby Deck
Inside
CAT6
Private Balcony:
French
Beds:
2 European twin beds that can slide together; 200 cm x 160 cm (two beds 200 cm x 80 cm each when separate); 79" x 63" (two beds 79" x 31.5"); 4 pieces of luggage can be stored under beds
Stateroom Furnishings:
Padded headboard with reading lamps, Storage / drawers, Large closet, 400 thread count cotton linens / white duvets and pillows of mako cotton with 90% down filling
Private Bathroom:
Yes, with shower
Bathroom Amenities:
Molton Brown toiletries – a Tauck Exclusive, Terry-cloth bathrobes plus slippers, Full-sized bathroom featuring enhanced lighting, additional storage and hair dryer, Large shower featuring rainfall shower head
Stateroom Amenities:
One floor-to-ceiling French balcony (98 inches x 75 inches) with one sliding door that opens, 32" LED TV, Full-sized window (98 inches x 37.5 inches), Minibar stocked with complimentary water and soft drinks, replenished daily, Safe, 220v and 110v outlets in cabin and bathroom, Easy under-bed luggage storage, Telephone and individual climate control, Onboard wi-fi available
View Details
Category 7 | Diamond Deck
Inside
CAT7
Private Balcony:
French
Beds:
2 European twin beds that can slide together; 200 cm x 180 cm (two beds 200 cm x 90 cm each when separate); 79" x 71" (two beds 79" x 35"); 4 pieces of luggage can be stored under beds
Stateroom Furnishings:
Padded headboard with reading lamps, Walk-in closet with built-in shelves, Pull-out sleeping sofa 190 cm x 110 cm – 75" x 43" (triple & quad capacity; quads for children only), Storage / drawers, 400 thread count cotton linens / white duvets and pillows of mako cotton with 90% down filling
Private Bathroom:
Yes, with shower
Bathroom Amenities:
Molton Brown toiletries – a Tauck Exclusive, Terry-cloth bathrobes plus slippers, Full-size bathroom featuring enhanced lighting, additional storage and a hair dryer, Large shower featuring rainfall shower head (note: no bathtub)
Stateroom Amenities:
Two floor-to-ceiling French balconies, each 98 inches x 75 inches with one sliding door that opens, 32" LED TV, Safe, Minibar stocked with complimentary water and soft drinks, replenished daily, Coffee maker, Breakfast room service, Iron plus ironing board, 220v and 110v outlets in cabin and bathroom, Easy under-bed luggage storage, Telephone and individual climate control, Onboard wi-fi available, a shipboard credit (one per stateroom) is provided to be used onboard for spa services, gift shop purchases, etc
View Details
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