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Danube's Imperial Cities and Yuletide Markets DECEMBER 7-12, 2022

NEW STATEROOMS AVAILABLE

There is absolutely nothing like spending some time experiencing the Yuletide Markets in Europe, especially when you're with your pals from Sisterhood Travels ! We want YOU to join us for all of the fun and laughs you can handle while we explore Budapest, Bratislava and Vienna. And, if you are so inclined, Sisters can bring their Misters. The more the merrier!

Join us as we set sail for some of the most beautiful landscapes in Europe, exquisite cuisine and fine wines, exploration of the three Imperial Cities, and a whole lot of friendship-building!

At this time, you must be fully vaccinated to board the ship per the policy of Riviera River Cruises.

Enjoy a guided tour of the fascinating Hungarian capital, imperial city of two halves straddling the mighty Danube, plus spectacular cruising along the famously dramatic Danube Bend in all its wintry splendour. Discover delightful Bratislava, Slovakia’s fast emerging capital, on our guided tour then wander the atmospheric markets of its lovely baroque old town, beautifully restored to its former glory.

After a guided tour of this grand imperial city, seeing the main sights at this spectacular time of the year, explore some of the capital’s traditional markets with their huge range of inspirational gifts and tempting Christmas fare. Relax on board and enjoy the stunning river views on our return to this alluring and historic city to explore further and soak up the lovely festive ambience of its seasonal markets.

Watch this short video for a peek inside the Yuletide Markets

Your Itinerary

December 7, 2022 - Embarkation in Budapest

Make your way to Budapest, where your five-star cruise ship moored in this beautiful city straddling the banks of the glorious Danube. As you step on board you will be greeted by your professional, five-star crew who are on hand to help you settle in as you familiarise yourself with the layout of this splendid ship.

We are moored overnight so you may fancy a wander ashore to start exploring this charismatic city, so full of atmosphere at this special time of year. It won’t be long before our first excellent dinner is served in the ship’s restaurant, over which you can get acquainted with some of your fellow travelers. Enjoy a digestif in the welcoming lounge as you ponder all that the next few days has in store!

December 8, 2022 - Budapest

Budapest is always an atmospheric and fascinating city, but at this time of the year, the muted colors of its magnificent archaic spires and grand domes are especially captivating on the wintry skyline. The historic and palatial buildings, the superb Roman ruins and exquisite Art Nouveau architecture provide a truly impressive backdrop for the city’s acclaimed Christmas markets. This morning we enjoy a guided tour seeing the main sights such as the iconic Parliament Building and the ancient Castle District with its winding streets and panoramic views.

There’s free time to explore under your own steam, so perhaps take in one of the city’s fine museums or simply wander the markets. Soak up the traditional atmosphere as classical music fills the air along with the delicious smells of spicy gingerbread and peppery goulash – and don’t forget the mulled wine to stave off the winter chill! Of course, your culinary experience must include chimney cake! Back on board for lunch, excitement mounts as we slip our mooring and our adventure begins; just sit back and relax as the fairytale landscape glides by through the ship’s panoramic windows. This afternoon we witness a cruising highlight as we navigate the Danube Bend, where the river spectacularly winds its way through a narrow twisting valley, flanked by high mountains and snow-covered hillsides.

Wrap up and take to the deck to enjoy this wonderful kaleidoscope of Christmas card scenery drifting by in the frosty air, then return to the warmth of the ship’s inviting lounge and catch up on some reading or write those final Christmas cards. Later head to the convivial atmosphere of the ship’s well-stocked bar for your favorite aperitif, before another excellent dinner is served.

December 9, 2022 - Bratislava

During this morning’s breakfast, we arrive in Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia. Its communist past now firmly confined to the history books, the city has rediscovered its imperial heritage in its beautifully restored baroque old town whilst the grand white fortress, the former seat of the rulers, enjoys commanding views over the river.

This morning we will discover more about the city’s interesting history, seeing the main sights and visiting some of the churches to view their traditional Christmas cribs, before you enjoy some free time. Wander the maze of streets, admiring the Christmas decorations until you reach the main square and the market with its cozy atmosphere; the sweet fragrance of cinnamon wafts on the air and hundreds of fairy lights twinkle amongst the branches of the Christmas trees. The pretty red and white stalls groan with inspirational artisan gifts, from decorations, wooden figurines or pottery. Sample some local delicacies too such as potato pancakes or poppy seed strudel but make sure you don’t spoil your appetite as it won’t be long until lunch is served back on board.

Afterward, you may wish to return to shore – perhaps to climb the tower of the Old Town Hall for a bird’s eye view of the city and the bustling market below. Alternatively, you may choose to join our optional excursion to Slovensky Grob, a village situated in the foothills of the Carpathian Mountains, famed for its geese rearing. We will visit a typical Slovak chalet to enjoy a wine tasting of some of the season’s new wines, accompanied by some typical local delicacies.

Later we return to the ship where another excellent dinner will be served.

December 10, 2022 - Vienna

During the early hours, our ship has stealthily crept into port and you awake to find yourself in Vienna. There are few places that can so delightfully evoke the spirit of Christmas than here – where the elegant imperial facades, their decorations glittering in the glow from a thousand Christmas lights, the sound of classical carols floating on the crisp air and the irresistible smell of candyfloss and roasted chestnuts are truly reminiscent of Christmas from a bygone age. There has been a Christmas market here since the Middle Ages and today there are more than 20 markets held over the festive period selling a huge range of seasonal gifts and mouth-watering treats. Vienna’s City Hall provides a splendid backdrop for one of the most popular, its windows a giant advent calendar, reflecting the myriad of lights glistening in the trees below. The magnificent Schönbrunn Palace also hosts a superb market, specializing in traditional handicrafts and nostalgic toys. After breakfast you enjoy a guided tour seeing the main sights such as St Stephen’s Cathedral and the impressive Hofburg complex, former royal court, now home to a collection of museums, the Vienna Boys’ Choir and the world-famous Spanish Riding School.

After lunch on board there’s plenty of time to explore some more of the markets, while the brass band plays its Christmas repertoire and the sweet aroma of nutmeg fills the air. When things turn chilly, retreat to the refined yet cozy elegance of a traditional Viennese café for a steaming hot chocolate and watch the last daylight fade away.

After tonight’s excellent dinner on board, retire to the lounge for a nightcap and enjoy a classical recital - a fitting musical finale to our day as the ship glides away from this captivating city.

December 11, 2022 - Budapest

We have sailed overnight and on waking, draw back the curtains to see the early morning mist rising over this gentle pastoral landscape, draped in a blanket of glistening frost. After breakfast, seek out a good vantage spot in the lounge, sink into a comfy chair and watch this lovely slideshow of winter wonderland scenery effortlessly gliding by – what could be more relaxing! For the more energetic, perhaps a visit to the ship’s fitness center to work off some of those delicious meals or head up to the sun deck to enjoy the bracing river breeze as the Captain skilfully navigates our return course to the Hungarian capital.

Our final lunch is served during which Budapest’s majestic skyline comes into view. This afternoon you are at leisure so perhaps wander to the Vorosmarty Square in the very heart of Pest, where the rustic cottage-style wooden stalls groan under the weight of their treasure troves of unique Christmas gifts. The scent of traditional honey cookies and mulled wine pervades the air as you browse the stalls, enjoying the friendly festive ambiance or perhaps indulging in a slice of traditional chimney cake.

Return to the ship in time for tonight’s superb Captain’s Dinner, expertly served by your attentive crew before enjoying one last evening amongst newly-made friends in the convivial bar, recounting stories from a very magical cruise.

December 12, 2022 - Disembarkation in Budapest

This morning at the appropriate time, you will disembark the ship ready for your onward journey. If you're flying home, you will be transported to the airport. If you'd like to extend your journey, we would be happy to help you make arrangements.

STATEROOM SELECTIONS

Diamond Deck Standard Suites - Single Occupancy or Double Occupancy

A gleaming wood door opens revealing your exceptionally appointed suite. At 17 square metres (183 square feet), its generous dimensions are amongst the largest you will find on a cruiser gracing any European river. Imaginatively designed and appointed to the highest specification, with all the luxury you would expect to find in a smart ‘boutique style’ hotel, your comfort definitely won’t be compromised on any level! The gleaming marble bathroom features a powerful fully glazed shower with a large ‘rainshower’ head, superbly refreshing after a hard day’s sightseeing. Clever design allows for ample space, and contemporary lighting, complimentary cosmetics by ‘Crabtree and Evelyn’ and fluffy towels, makes preparing for the day ahead an absolute pleasure.

The chic styling of a talented designer’s eye extends to the entire suite with generous use of hand-crafted tropical hardwoods blended with premium fittings, discreet thoughtful lighting and a colour scheme of calming neutral tones, creating an ambience to put you in the most relaxed frame of mind from the very first minute! A full size bed assures a good night’s rest in crisp cotton linen of the finest quality - a turndown service each evening adds the finishing touch. You will enjoy a particularly generous seating area with two chairs and a table, enabling you to unwind in comfort in the privacy of your own suite whilst a bow camera conveys live images of the ship’s progress to your flat screen TV, ensuring you won’t miss a thing. Careful consideration has been given to the tiniest details with individually controlled air-conditioning so you set the temperature that you desire, a hairdryer, safe, minibar, telephone and the convenience of tea (our meticulous planning even extends to familiar teabags!) and coffee making facilities ensure a familiar home from home experience.

Suites on the Diamond Deck have ‘French Balconies’ – panoramic floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors bringing riverside life just that little closer! Indulge in the luxury of Riviera Plus when you stay in an upper-deck cabin or suite. In your well-appointed cabin, you’ll find a smart handset with maps, translator and currency converter, unlimited internet use, L’Occitane en Provence toiletries, a bottle of chilled Prosecco on arrival, a platter of fresh seasonal fruits during the cruise and an aperitif each evening, with our compliments.

PRICING: $3538.00 Single Occupancy or $1769 per person Double Occupancy

Sorry, we cannot accommodate triple or quadruple rooms

DO NOT PURCHASE AIRFARE UNTIL WE HAVE A CONFIRMATION FROM THE CRUISE LINE THAT YOUR STATEROOM IS CONFIRMED

FULL PAYMENT IS DUE AT THE TIME OF YOUR BOOKING. ALL MONIES PAID ARE SUBJECT TO THE CANCELLATION POLICIES OF RIVIERA RIVER CRUISES.

BE SURE TO READ BELOW FOR OUR 3-NIGHT BUDAPEST PRE-EXTENSION. SPACE IS LIMITED DUE TO THE POPULARITY OF THIS EXTENSION

CRUISE CANCELLATION POLICY

  • More than 91 days before embarkation - Loss of deposit.
  • Within 90 and 61 days before embarkation - 50% of booking cost will be lost
  • Within 60 and 31 days before embarkation - 75% of booking cost will be lost
  • Within 30 and 16 days before embarkation - 85% of booking cost will be lost
  • Within 15 days before embarkation - 100% of booking cost will be lost

A single person supplement will be payable if a cabin is occupied by only one person except where 100% cancellation charges have been paid by the person cancelling. Your decision not to take all or part of the trip due to ‘Government’ or ‘Official’ warnings or advisories, fear of travel, or any other reason will be deemed a cancellation. If a flight or other delay for any reason prevents you from using the trip on the trip start date and time, you will be considered a no-show, and Riviera River Cruises cannot provide a full or partial refund or credit toward a future trip.

Travel Insurance: we strongly recommend that you purchase travel insurance. We are happy to provide you with a quote upon request.

All pricing and availability subject to change without notice until booking is confirmed with payment and/or deposit as required.

For more information, contact us at info@sisterhoodtravels.com or call us at 910-742-5324

OPTIONAL 3-NIGHT PRE-EXTENSION IN BUDAPEST

DECEMBER 4-7, 2022

  • 3 nights in a single or double occupancy deluxe Danube-view at the 5-star Intercontinental Hotel on the waterfront in Budapest
  • Private transfers from the airport to the hotel
  • Private group transfer from the hotel to the ship
  • 4-hour Panoramic City Sightseeing Tour with private group transportation including admission to Matthias Church and Fisherman's Bastion
  • Group lunch at the Strudel House including 3-course traditional Hungarian meal, 1 bottle of sparkling or still water, 1 glass of wine or beer, and your choice of espresso, cappuccino, or tea per person, and strudel desserts
  • Interactive strudel stretching demonstration
  • Hop-On/Hop-Off Sightseeing Bus - 24-Hour Pass

3-Night Pre-Extension Pricing: $999 per person double occupancy / $1399 single occupancy. Full payment per person due at time of booking and is non-refundable.

Important Note: we cannot shorten or extend this package. If you wish to have simply a pre- or post-night hotel, we can book that for you separately.