Kunsthistorisches Museum Vienna in winter

Iconic Christmas Markets - Smithsonian Journeys

Smithsonian Journeys scholarship reframes the Danube's iconic Christmas markets, tracing their history and traditions port by port. Expert historians and cultural guides explain the origins of German Christmas customs, the medieval architecture that frames each market and the centuries of tradition that set these gatherings apart.

Duration7 nights

RiversDanube

CountriesAustria, Germany, Hungary

Duration7 nights

RiversDanube

CountriesAustria, Germany, Hungary

Highlights of your Smithsonian Journey

Learn from the experts

Talks written for your specific route and delivered before you step into the location they’re about, putting it all into perspective before you arrive.

Exclusive experiences

Each sailing includes tours designed for Smithsonian Journeys guests, and not available on the other itineraries.

Small-group access

With limited group sizes, you’ll be able to hear the expert, ask the question, and be part of the conversation.

What's included with your cruise

An opened luggage on top of a bed in a stateroom

More room to breathe

Choose from suites, solo staterooms, and connecting rooms. Most include our signature twin balconies.
Daily housekeeping and turn-down service
Bathrobe, slippers and full bathroom amenities
Refillable water bottle to take with you
Onboard WiFi

A flavor for every moment

All onboard meals
The Chef's Table, specialty restaurant
Wine, beer, and soft drinks with meals
Specialty coffee and tea
Sip & Sail cocktail hour daily
All-day snacks in the Lark Lounge
Welcome cocktail reception

Adventures on your terms

Choose from up to six expert-led experiences each day
Gentle, regular and active options are available for most activities
Wellness Host with daily fitness, stretch and meditation classes on most sailings

Designed for the way you travel

A Cruise Manager who knows everything about your route and will lead your journey the whole way
Regional music and performances
Experiences for solo travelers
Onshore experiences, onboard amenities, and port charges included

Itinerary

Select Cruise Year

Select Direction

Select Optional Land Packages

View Cruise Days

Explore the daily onshore experience options available throughout your cruise.

Dates, Prices and Offers

Important: Dates, fares & itineraries are subject to change.

Port Charges (included in cruise price): €213 per person in 2026. €243 per person in 2027. €252 per person in 2028.

Single Supplement for Cruise: 50% of per person double occupancy fare; Suites 100% of per person double occupancy fare. Please see terms below for details.

Single Supplement for Land: A single supplement charge will be applied to pre- and post-cruise hotel extensions. Please ask your travel agent or call for pricing details.

Bedding: Please select bedding configuration at the time of booking.

Option A: Two twin beds

Option B: One large bed (larger than queen size).

Terms & Conditions

Fares include port charges* and are cruise-only per person based on double occupancy of an entry level category stateroom unless stated otherwise. Fares do not include flights or transfers. Any offers shown are valid on select sailings only and are combinable with all past guest programmes and guest service certificates, but not combinable with any other offers or promotions. Solo guests must pay an additional solo supplement before receiving any savings. On certain sailings Solo Supplement Waivers are available (non-combinable with savings) – please ask for more details. Fares and offers are subject to availability and may be changed or withdrawn at any time. Offers are capacity controlled and subject to change or withdrawal without notice. Land programmes and gratuities are additional. Other restrictions may apply. Please see our brochure or website for full Terms & Conditions.

Ships

AmaLea

Inspired by luxury yachts, AmaLea’s sleek, contemporary setting where soft tones and elegant details create a stylish way to sail Europe’s rivers

Staterooms: 78

Passengers: 156

AmaSonata

AmaSonata surrounds you with the spirit of Europe’s rivers, blending discoveries ashore with elegant dining, warm service, and inviting spaces on board that make every moment feel connected

Staterooms: 81

Passengers: 162

AmaMora

AmaMora, sister to AmaLea and AmaKristina, sails Europe’s rivers with twin-balcony suites, regionally inspired cuisine, and inviting spaces that make every day feel both relaxed and memorable

Staterooms: 78

Passengers: 156

AmaReina

Experience a refined river cruise aboard AmaReina, with staterooms designed for comfort, dining rooted in regional flavors, and inviting spaces that make time on board feel personal and memorable

Staterooms: 81

Passengers: 162

Why travelers choose AmaWaterways

Iconic Christmas Markets•AmaReina

“Just returned home from the Iconic Christmas Market Cruise on Amareina. Such a great time. The crew were so nice & helpful, great food, a festive ship (inside & out) and met some wonderful people! If you are concerned about being a solo traveler, it was a great experience!”

Laurie P.A.

Iconic Christmas Markets

“She said it was the best food she has ever had! She was so happy and insisted that we put down a deposit on a future cruise and we recently selected Rhine Castles Swiss and Alps for June 2026. In conclusion: AmaWaterways made our honeymoon so wonderful and we can’t wait to travel again with them!”

Michael S.

Best of the Danube

“We adored...the exclusive Oktoberfest in Vilshofen where we got to know fellow guests.”

Maureen G.