🎄✨ Experience the magic of the holiday season on a Christmas Markets on the Danube River Cruise with AmaWaterways, brought to you by Fit For a Star Travel! Your journey begins in the storybook city of Vilshofen, and takes you through charming destinations like Passau, Linz, Weissenkirchen, and Vienna, before concluding in the breathtaking city of Budapest. Stroll through twinkling markets, sip mulled wine, and soak in the festive spirit of Europe’s most enchanting holiday destinations. Let us take care of the details while you enjoy a luxurious, stress-free holiday adventure! 🚢🎁
Onboard AmaSofia, the holidays shine even brighter! From twinkling lights to warm holiday treats, the service and festive spirit make this a Christmas to remember. 🎅🎄✨
Embark on a magical 7-night river cruise aboard the luxurious AmaSofia, sailing from Vilshofen to Budapest. Experience the enchantment of Europe's renowned Christmas markets, where twinkling lights, festive melodies, and the aroma of seasonal treats fill the air.
Vilshofen: Begin your journey with a traditional Bavarian Oktoberfest celebration, featuring local beer and pretzels.
Passau: Stroll through the "City of Three Rivers," exploring its charming Christmas market nestled beneath the impressive St. Stephen's Cathedral.
Linz: Discover the city's rich cultural heritage with options to visit its festive markets, embark on a "Cultural Mile" bike tour, or take a full-day excursion to the storybook city of Salzburg, adorned with holiday decorations.
Weissenkirchen: Enjoy scenic cruising through the Wachau Valley, followed by a visit to the picturesque village of Dürnstein and the magnificent Melk Abbey.
Vienna: Immerse yourself in the imperial grandeur of Austria's capital, with opportunities to explore its opulent architecture and vibrant Christmas markets, including the renowned Schönbrunn Palace market.
Bratislava: Delve into the history of Slovakia's capital with a walking tour of its Old Town and a visit to its charming Christmas market.
Budapest: Conclude your festive voyage in Hungary's capital, where you can explore both the Buda and Pest sides of the city, visit the iconic Fisherman's Bastion, and shop for unique gifts at the city's celebrated Christmas markets.
This journey offers a perfect blend of cultural exploration, festive celebration, and scenic cruising, making it an ideal holiday getaway.
Optional Pre-Cruise Land Stay
Stroll through a fairytale Christmas market in the heart of Old Town, where twinkling lights and mulled wine bring the season to life! 🎄🍷
Contact us to inquire about pre-cruise land package
Embarkation: Day 1
Experience Bavarian holiday magic with charming stalls, festive music, and the warmth of a cozy German Christmas market! 🎁🎶
Day 3
Let the scent of gingerbread and roasted chestnuts guide you through Linz’s enchanting Christkindlmarkt, set against a dazzling cityscape! 🍪🌟
Day 5
Wander through Vienna’s world-famous Christmas markets, where imperial charm meets holiday cheer in a truly magical setting! 🎠❄️
Day 8-Embarkation
Sip spiced wine and marvel at the glittering lights of Budapest’s festive markets, nestled in one of Europe’s most breathtaking cities! 🍷🎇
AmaSofia
Debuting on the upper Danube River in late spring 2026, our 24th river cruise ship, the splendid AmaSofia, will boast our signature twin-balcony staterooms, enabling you to enjoy breathtaking views of Austria’s Wachau Valley and Europe’s Old-World capitals, Budapest, Bratislava and Vienna. Stay tuned for more details as they are announced!
- Panoramic Lounge with bar, piano and dance floor
- Walking track, Chess Baord, Putting Green, pool with swim-up-bar and fitness room
- 7 -Night River Cruise in elegantly appointed Accommodations
- Fine dining on board in multiple venues
- Unlimited hand-selected wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch/dinner
- Small group guided shore excursions with a variety of choices, including exclusive Special Interest Tours, hiking and biking tours
- Professionally trained Wellness Host leading engaging wellness activities
- Live local entertainment
- Unlimited complimentary Wi-Fi access
Savor gourmet dining on the elegant AmaSofia, where every meal is a masterpiece. From locally inspired dishes to world-class wines, every bite is a celebration of flavor. 🍽️🍷
From the moment you step aboard AmaSofia, you’re treated like family. Thoughtful touches, warm smiles, and impeccable service make every moment effortless and unforgettable.
Step off the ship and into a world of wonder! From fairytale villages to historic castles, every AmaSofia excursion is designed to immerse you in Europe's rich culture. 🚶♂️🏰
Wake up to breathtaking views of Europe’s most charming Christmas markets and historic towns. Each port is a doorway to adventure, history, and holiday magic! 🎄🛳️
Live music, cultural performances, and festive celebrations—every night on AmaSofia is a new experience. Sit back, sip your wine, and let the magic unfold. 🎻✨
Stay energized and refreshed with AmaWaterways’ onboard wellness programs! From sunrise yoga on the deck to guided fitness classes, wellness is woven into every journey.
Experience the best of both worlds with a spacious Twin Balcony stateroom, featuring both a French balcony for fresh breezes and a full outside balcony for sipping morning coffee or watching the sunset. Luxurious comfort meets panoramic views for an unforgettable journey.
Enjoy breathtaking river views from the comfort of your elegant French balcony. With floor-to-ceiling windows that open to fresh air and picturesque scenery, this cozy retreat is perfect for relaxing in style.
Indulge in the ultimate luxury with a beautifully appointed Suite, offering both a French balcony and a full outside balcony. With extra space, a comfortable sitting area, and enhanced amenities, your Suite is a private sanctuary for relaxation and riverfront elegance.
Pricing:
- Deposit: $400 per person
- Category E: Fixed Window, 160 sq. ft.: $3248 pp -SOLD OUT
- Category D: Fixed Window, 160 sq. ft.: $3648 pp -SOLD OUT
- Category CA: French Balcony, 179 sq. ft.: $5858pp
- Category BB: French & Outside Balcony, 210 sq. ft.: $6448 pp
- Category AB: French & Outside Balcony, 235 sq. ft.: $6,848 pp
- Category SS: Suite - French & Outside Balcony, 350 sq. ft.: $8348pp
*Pricing subject to change until deposited*
Optional Add-Ons:
Pre-Cruise Hotel Stay:
3 Nights Prague package (Pre-cruise) USD: $975 DBL
2 Night Munich package (Pre-Cruise) USD: $980 DBL /$1420
Final Payment: 9/1/2026
Cancellations:
50% of the deposit is non-refundable immediately, then 100% of the deposit becomes non-refundable at 120 days prior to the start of travel.
TRAVEL INSURANCE:
- Travel Guard insurance – The cost is 13% of the reservation total per person and coverage varies per state, so the residential address of each client who want to add this is required. This can be purchased up until time of Final Payment but pre-existing conditions will only be covered if purchased within 21 days of the deposit date.
- Travel Waiver Plus 31 (CFAR waiver): The cost is $80 per person with purchase of Travel Guard insurance. This can only be purchased at the time of deposit and cannot be purchased separately from the Travel Guard insurance (only as an add-on). This allows clients with denied claims to receive their penalty amounts (not including travel protection premiums) in the form of Future Cruise Credit that can be applied to other sailings with AmaWaterways as long as the guests cancel by 31 days prior to the trip start.
- Time of Deposit is the only chance to purchase the AmaWaterways Travel Waiver Plus 31 cancel-for-any-reason (CFAR) waiver on top of the standard Travel Guard insurance
If you would like travel insurance purchased separately please let Fit For a Star Travel know within 2 weeks of making a deposit. Travel insurance increases in price the closer the departure date is and will not include pre-existing conditions if made after two weeks of booking.
TRAVEL DOCUMENTS:
A valid US Passport is needed for this group tour with at least 6 months before expiration.
You may review AMA Waterways Terms and Conditions here
What's Not Included
- Gratuities (can be prepaid)
- Travel Insurance (optional but highly recommended)
- Airfare
- Transfers from/to airport-unless airfare is purchased through AMA Waterways
- Pre/Post Accommodations (can be arranged by Fit For a Star Travel )
Hello, I'm Star Williams, your dedicated Travel Advisor and passionate globetrotter based in Maryland. With personal journeys spanning from Europe's cobblestone streets to the breathtaking safaris of Africa, I craft unique travel experiences tailored to your dreams. At Fit For a Star Travel, I specialize in seamless group adventures and personalized itineraries, ensuring every journey is memorable and stress-free.