8 Night Christmastime on the Danube with 2 Nights in Prague (Eastbound) Cruise and Land Tour from Prague

Welcome to Prague, the capital of the Czech Republic. The city straddles the Vltava River, with domes, cupolas, spires, and pinnacles highlighting its skyline.

Prague is a 1,000-year-old city preserved in time. See its best-known treasures such as the Old Town's Astronomical Clock, once the envy of all of Europe; Hradcany castle grounds; St. Vitus Cathedral; and the Charles Bridge. Browse the shops for hand-cut crystal or art books and stroll through the Christmas markets. Rows of brightly-decorated wooden huts sell Christmas tree ornaments, wooden toys, and Czech handicrafts. Get a little inner warmth with a cup of svarene vino (hot mulled wine) and a traditional hot sausage from one of the stalls. The beautifully-decorated tree in the Old Town is an impressive sight. Christmas is the most important family holiday of the year in most Eastern European countries, and the Czechs begin their preparations and celebrations on December 4th with the feast of St. Barbara. (Breakfast)

After lunch, drive to Nuremberg where your river cruise vessel is docked. Before dinner meet your crew at a Welcome Reception. (Breakfast, Dinner)

Although Nuremberg suffered extensive damage during WWII, much of it was restored to its original style. Marvel at this historic city with its fabulous Gothic churches and elegant patrician houses. Nuremberg hosts Germany's most famous Christmas market, which dates back to 1628; the Old Town is illuminated with festive lights and decorations. The city's traditions include famous Lebkuchen, toy making, and metal working. This evening we'll introduce you to some of Germany's famous beers! (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Regensburg is one of Germany's best-preserved medieval cities. Architectural highlights included on your tour are the Old Town Hall and Porta Praetoria-the gate to an ancient Roman fort built in 179 AD. The city is the capital of Upper Palatinate, a bustling university town, and one of Bavaria's cultural centers. The Christmas market is located on the historic market square. Germany is famous for its sausages and Regensburg is home to the country's oldest restaurant, Historische Wurstkuche (the Old Sausage Kitchen), dating back to the 12th century. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Passau, ideally located at the confluence of the rivers Inn, Ilz, and Danube, is a city of graceful arcades and cobblestone streets. St. Stephen's Cathedral houses the world's largest church organ with more than 17,000 pipes. An optional full-day excursion to Salzburg takes in the popular Sound of Music sights as well as more Christmas cheer-the traditional carols, the sparkling lights, and the smell of candles and gingerbread! Linz, Austria's third-largest town, lies on both banks of the Danube and is an important industrial town and a busy river port. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Melk's magnificent Benedictine abbey dominates the town from its commanding hill site and is one of Europe's largest monasteries. The view from the terrace over the Danube and the surrounding countryside is breathtaking! This evening, arrive in Vienna, known as the "City of Music", which inspired the creative genius of Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss. An optional concert is available tonight. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Once the center of the mighty Habsburg Empire, Austria's capital has much to offer: the lavish Hofburg Palace, the impressive Vienna Opera House, the majestic Ring Boulevard, and awe-inspiring St. Stephen's Cathedral, to name just a few of the sights you will enjoy on your city tour. You do not rush through Vienna; you waltz, taking your time to savor each classic sight and sound. Shop in the Karntnerstrasse and enjoy Sachertorte or Apfelstrudel in a neighborhood cafe. Soak up the atmosphere of the Adventszeit (Advent season) and spend some time in the beautiful Christmas markets located throughout the city. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (Breakfast)