11 Night Majestic Capitals of the Danube (Christmas Cruise) Cruise and Land Tour from Krakow, Poland

Arrive in Krakow and transfer to your hotel.

Get acquainted with your surroundings and take a deeper dive into the fascinating history of Krakow with a comprehensive city tour. Visit the Wawel Royal Castle - the world's very first designated UNESCO World Heritage Site and Poland's largest castle, located in the center of its Old Town. The Wawel Hill features a limestone cave renowned for its connection to the legendary Wawel Dragon of Polish folklore, which you will learn more about during your tour. You will also venture into Krakow's historic Jewish Quarter and see the factory of Oskar Schindler, who was credited with saving 1,200 Jewish lives during World War II, and who was famously honored in the award-winning film Schindler's List. You will also be treated to a live performance of the Polish anthem by a trumpeter on the highest tower of Saint Mary's Church, otherwise known as St. Mary's Trumpet Call, a tradition since the 19th century. Enjoy the afternoon at your leisure to explore more of the city. (B)

Prepare yourself for an emotional day as we explore a darker period in Poland's history with a visit to Auschwitz, the largest and most tragically infamous of Europe's labor and death camps. The main gate, barbed wire fences, buildings, and barracks look much the same today as they did during the Holocaust, when 1.1 million lives were taken within the camp. It was liberated from January 17-21, 1945, saving 58,000 from further horrors. Though not for the feint of heart, this once-in-a-lifetime excursion will honor the memory of those who perished and promises to be one you won't soon forget. (B)

Depart from Krakow and enjoy a stop in Banska Bystrica before transferring to Budapest. Later in the day, board your luxurious river cruise ship. (B,D)

Arrive in Budapest and board your luxurious river cruise ship. (D)

Budapest offers an unmatched combination of culture and tradition. Your city tour begins with a visit to the Great Market Hall before going to both the Buda (hilly) and the Pest (flat) sides of the river. You'll see Heroes' Square and Castle Hill, home to the Fisherman's Bastion and Mattias Church. If you prefer venturing off the beaten path or are returning to the city for a repeat visit, join our "Hidden Budapest" tour to discover some fascinating sites lesser-known to the average traveler. As an alternative, you can hike up to Castle Hill for breathtaking views of the city below. In the afternoon, spend free time at your leisure to explore the city. (B,L,D)

Take in the breathtaking scenery as we glide along the Danube River into Bratislava. Host to the crowning ceremonies of 11 Hungarian kings and queens between 1563 and 1830, Bratislava certainly has earned the title "Coronation City of Kings", as you'll discover during your walking tour. Or, join a special "Tastes of Slovakia" tour. For a more active adventure, hike up to Bratislava Castle, offering magnificent views of the city or enjoy a guided biking tour. In the evening, end your day with an exclusive Slovakian experience at the Primate's Palace, a striking neoclassical building heart of the old town. (B,L,D)

Enjoy a scenic morning cruise in Bratislava before sailing to Vienna. The "City of Waltzes" offers a wealth of gems and your city tour showcases its regal splendors, including the majestic Opera House and the former Imperial Palace of the Habsburgs. Conclude your tour in Vienna's historic city center and then visit St. Stephen's Cathedral, or discover Vienna by bike. Alternatively, visit a traditional Viennese cafe to experience a true Vienna specialty, the Sachertorte, and savor this treat with a piping hot Viennese coffee. (B,L,D)

Visit the UNESCO World Heritage-designated Schonbrunn Palace and Gardens, the main summer residence of the Habsburg rulers. Built in the 18th century as an imperial summer residence, this magnificent 1,441-room Baroque palace is one of the most important architectural, cultural, and historical monuments in Austria. Pedal along the scenic Danube River and through charming neighborhoods to the nearby town of Klosterneuburg and its majestic 12th-century Augustinian monastery overlooking the Danube River. During the afternoon, enjoy leisure time to further explore this iconic city. (B,L,D)

Bid farewell to Vienna and prepare for your flight home. (B)

Depart the ship and continue via motorcoach to Prague where you will check into your hotel. (B)

Discover Prague with a choice of 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. See all the key highlights, including the 1,000-year-old Prague Castle and Old Town Square, where you will find the famous Astronomical Clock. (B)

Beer has a long and illustrious history in the Czech Republic, so join a tasting and discover some of the very best beer in the world. (B)

Bid farewell to Prague and prepare for your flight home. (B)