Danube Christmas Markets & Mediterranean Joy

Experience the best of both worlds with our exclusive cruise package, combining an enchanting Mediterranean voyage from Barcelona to Rome with a festive Danube River journey through Europe's most celebrated Christmas markets.

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  • Itinerary
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RIVER & OCEAN COMBO EXCLUSIVE OFFER

Embark on an adventure that seamlessly blends the sun-kissed allure of the Mediterranean with the magical charm of Europe's winter festivities. Begin your journey in the vibrant city of Barcelona, exploring its rich culture and architecture before setting sail along the picturesque French Riviera, visiting gems like Marseille and Nice. Continue to Italy's coastal treasures, including La Spezia and the historic marvels of Florence and Pisa, culminating in the eternal city of Rome, where ancient history meets modern elegance. Transition from the Mediterranean's warmth to the festive ambiance of Central Europe with a Danube River cruise. Immerse yourself in the holiday spirit as you visit charming towns and cities adorned with twinkling lights and bustling Christmas markets. From the foothills of the German Alps to the heart of Budapest, experience the season's joy with traditional crafts, delectable treats, and the melodic sounds of carollers, all while cruising along one of Europe's most storied waterways.

Package Inclusions:

  • Return economy class flights on full service carrier from Australia* to Barcelona, returning from Budapest
  • 26 Nov 2026 private car transfer from Barcelona airport to hotel
  • 26-28 Nov 2026 - 2 nights 5-star accommodation in Barcelona, including breakfast
  • 28 Nov 2026 private car transfer from Hotel to Barcelona port
  • 14 nights Mediterranean cruise onboard Azamara Onward, Barcelona to Rome

    - Marvel at Cinque Terre from La Spezia
    - Spend time discovering the elegance of La Cote D'Azur
    - Experience Italy's rich history

    Cruise dates: 28 Nov - 05 Dec 2026
  • All onboard meals in complimentary dining venues
    Drinks, including alcohol, all day & night onboard
    AzAmazing exclusive cultural events (on most voyages)
    Unlimited self-service laundry onboard
    A wide range of onboard activities & entertainment
    Port charges, taxes & prepaid gratuities
  • Book a Club Balcony stateroom & above* by 08 July 2025 and receive 1 free Essentials Package
    - US$300 onboard credit*
    - Unlimited WiFi service for one device
    - Premium Beverage Package for two guests
  • 05 Dec 2026 private car transfer from Civitavecchia port to Rome Hotel
  • 05-07 Dec 2026 - 2 nights 5-star accommodation in Rome, including breakfast
  • 07 Dec 2026 transfer from Rome Hotel to Airport
  • One-way economy class flight from Rome to Munich
  • 07 Dec 2026 transfer from Munich Airport to Pier (provided by Scenic)
  • 7 night river cruise onboard Scenic Amber, Munich to Budapest

    - Soak up the festive atmosphere in Europe during visits to the Christmas Markets along the Danube River
    - Taste the regional specialties of the Wachau Valley with a local producer on board your Scenic Space-Ship
    - Meet the current owners of Artstetten Castle, home and burial place of Arch Duke Franz Ferdinand
    - 1 Scenic Enrich experience with an enchanting private classical evening concert at Palais Liechtenstein – Exclusive to Scenic

    Cruise dates: 07-14 Dec 2026
  • - Spacious suite with ESPA amenities and butler service for every suite
    - Up to five dining experiences
    - All on board meals
    - Premium beverages^ all day, every day – not just at meal times
    - Complimentary mini-bar restocked daily
    - Scenic Enrich – exclusive events to immerse you in the local culture
    - Scenic Freechoice – your choice of excursions to personalise your journey
    - E-bikes to explore independently in Europe (excluding Scenic Azure in Portugal)
    - Expert local guides in each town
    - All tipping and gratuities on board and onshore
  • 14 Dec 2026 transfer from Pier to Budapest Airport (provided by Scenic)

Itinerary

Day 1 Barcelona, Spain

Your journey starts in Australia*.  On arrival into Barcelona you will be driven by private car to your hotel where you will spend the next 2 nights. 

Day 2 Barcelona, Spain

After breakfast,  enjoy the day at leisure.

Day 3 Barcelona, Spain - Embarkation day

After breakfast, enjoy your last day in Barcelona before being transferred by private car transfer to  Barcelona port. Ship sails at 6pm.

Dynamic Barcelona is all about architecture, from the magnificent medieval buildings of the Gothic Quarter to the Modernist movement typified by the work of Antoni Gaudi. Though his materials were stone and metal, his forms were organic, awash in curves, swirls, and colors. His masterpiece is the amazing Church of the Sagrada Familia, colossal and as yet unfinished, though construction began in 1882. A contemporary contribution to the scene is Ricardo Bofill's post modernist National Theater of Catalonia, an imaginative combination of classical and modern design, with a greenhouse-like lobby.

Day 4 Provence (Marseille), France

Marseille, a port city in southern France, has been a crossroads of immigration and trade since its founding by the Greeks circa 600 B.C. At its heart is the Vieux-Port (Old Port), where fishmongers sell their catch along the boat-lined quay. Basilique Notre-Dame-de-la-Garde is a Romanesque-Byzantine church. Modern landmarks include Le Corbusier–s influential Cit– Radieuse complex and Zaha Hadid–s CMA CGM Tower.

Day 5 Nice, France

Nice, Queen of the Riviera, is imbued with the joie de vivre that epitomizes this fabled coastline. Perhaps it is that famous light and color that has long attracted artists, that makes one feel so alive, makes a stroll down the wide seaside Promenade des Anglais so exhilarating. The old town is a warren of meandering lanes edged by tall houses, and small, alluring shops. A treasure trove of archaeological and fine art museums is not to be ignored, nor is the famous flower market, awash in the heady scent and glowing hues of blossoms, and amazing displays of produce.

Day 6 Nice, France

Nice, Queen of the Riviera, is imbued with the joie de vivre that epitomizes this fabled coastline. Perhaps it is that famous light and color that has long attracted artists, that makes one feel so alive, makes a stroll down the wide seaside Promenade des Anglais so exhilarating. The old town is a warren of meandering lanes edged by tall houses, and small, alluring shops. A treasure trove of archaeological and fine art museums is not to be ignored, nor is the famous flower market, awash in the heady scent and glowing hues of blossoms, and amazing displays of produce.

Day 7 La Spezia

La Spezia, Italy cruise calendar 2019 provides the opportunity to search arrival and departure schedules of cruise ships arriving in this Mediterranean port. The timetable displays dates and times the cruise ships are in this port-of-call based on the major cruise lines itineraries. All cruise ships are linked to their complete current itinerary. In order to view the next port of call just click on the specific vessel.

Day 8 Florence /Pisa Livorno), Italy

Ah, Florence, sublime birthplace of the Renaissance, its historic centre full to bursting with elegant squares, imposing palaces, magnificent churches, and museums with such an abundance of riches it could make an art lover weep for joy. The list of illustrious names connected with this city is mind-boggling: Botticelli, Dante, Da Vinci, Michelangelo, Galileo. Other colourful and fascinating characters were of dubious reputation: Machiavelli, and the religious extremist Savonarola, with his bonfire of the vanities. For many years the city was ruled by the powerful Medici family, patrons of the arts and bankers to the papacy, whose line included six kings and two popes.

Day 9 Florence /Pisa (Livorno), Italy

Ah, Florence,  sublime birthplace of the Renaissance, its historic centre full to bursting with elegant squares, imposing palaces, magnificent churches, and museums with such an abundance of riches it could make an art lover weep for joy. The list of illustrious names connected with this city is mind-boggling: Botticelli, Dante, Da Vinci, Michelangelo, Galileo. Other colourful and fascinating characters were of dubious reputation: Machiavelli, and the religious extremist Savonarola, with his bonfire of the vanities. For many years the city was ruled by the powerful Medici family, patrons of the arts and bankers to the papacy, whose line included six kings and two popes.

Day 10 Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy

Upon disembarking in Civitavecchia, you will be privately transferred to your hotel in Rome where you will spend the next 2 nights. 

Rome has something special to offer to all visitors, no matter their interests and tastes. Whether you daydream about fighting with gladiators in the Coliseum, debating with togaed senators in the Forum, tossing a coin in a fabled fountain, or being awestruck by the magnificence of St Peter's Basilica and Michelangelo's masterpieces, Rome seems to live up to its sobriquet , the Eternal City. When you need sustenance, today's Rome will provide delizioso pasta e vino. Or perhaps you draw strength from a little retail therapy , the Italians are also renowned for their sense of style.

Day 11 Rome, Italy

After breakfast, enjoy day at leisure.

Day 12 Rome to Munich to Regensburg- Embarkation day

After breakfast, it will be an early morning start where you will be driven  by private car to the airport for your flight to Munich. 

On arrival in Munich, a transfer by Scenic to Regensburg where you will board your ship. 

Welcome to Regensburg, the beginning of your festive journey through central Europe. Boasting a staggering 2,000-year history, Regensburg has one of Germany's best preserved medieval town centres, with more than 900 of its Romanesque and Gothic buildings World Heritage-listed. Within its narrow laneways, the city lays claim to having the highest concentration of bars in the country. Toast to the start of your voyage during an evening reception on board your state-of-the-art Scenic Space-Ship.

Day 13 Regensburg, Germany

Set on the confluence of three rivers in Bavaria, Regensburg is a delight to explore. Do so today at your leisure or on a captivating Scenic Freechoice excursion. 

Freechoice: 

Choose from a selection of Scenic Freechoice touring activities: 
Walking tour of Regensburg: Your expert local guide will show you the old stone bridge, the Church of St James, and the Porta Praetoria all while sharing the customs and traditions of the region during the festive period. 
Thurn and Taxis Active Walking Tour: Join your guide for a tour of Thurn und Taxis Palace followed by free time to peruse the local Christmas market.

Day 14 Passau to Schlogen, Germany

Set on the confluence of the Danube, Inn and Ilz rivers, Passau has been an important trading city since medieval times, particularly for salt, commonly known as 'white gold'. Each river is distinct in colour and some days you can clearly see the green, blue, and black hues where the waters meet. At the centre of the Baroque city, the 13th century Italianate Old Town is packed with tight laneways, tunnels and archways as well as sparkling Christmas markets.

Freechoice: Decide how you will spend your day from the following Scenic Freechoice excursions:

Highlights of Passau walking tour: Enjoy a guided tour of Passau and visit St. Stephens Cathedral, originally built in the year 450.

Full day excursion to Salzburg: Journey via coach to Salzburg, the home of Mozart and The Sound of Music. During a guided tour explore this incredible city before enjoying lunch at a local restaurant and some free time to explore.

Full day excursion to Cesky Krumlov: Take a guided tour of the Czech town of Cesky Krumlov, considered one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe. Delight in lunch at a local restaurant and some time at leisure.

Day 15 Melk to Durnstein, Austria

Your Scenic Space-Ship will dock this morning in the small and picturesque town of Melk, located in Austria's scenic Wachau Valley.

Freechoice: Melk Benedictine Abbey: No visit to Melk would be complete without a guided tour of the magnificent 18th-century Benedictine Abbey. Wander its 900-year-old hallowed grounds, visit the decorated Marble Hall and the library, filled with more than 80,000 books, and be awed by the Abbey Church, adorned in frescoes and intricate statues.

E-biking from Melk to Durnstein: Embark on a guided e-bike ride to soak up the scenery along the Danube as you cycle from Melk to the quaint village of Durnstein. You'll pass by small villages and through rolling vineyards, stopping along the way to enjoy the river views.

This afternoon is spent on board your Scenic Space-Ship, cruising the beautiful Wachau Valley. While you bask in the spectacular views you will have the opportunity to indulge in some delicious local produce. Your Cruise Director will organise a special treat for you and invite a local producer on board to share some regional delicacies that are famous in this region. Sample local schnapps among other delights in this breathtaking location.

Day 16 Vienna, Austria

Wake up in Vienna this morning. It's a city full of grandeur, featuring the world's most beautiful boulevard, the Ringstrasse, and the legacy of the Habsburg monarchy. Also known as the City of Music, Vienna fostered the musical geniuses Mozart and Beethoven, among others. Sigmund Freud also lived and worked here in the late 19th century.

Freechoice: Explore your way with a selection from today's Scenic Freechoice activities:

 

Visit Schonbrunn Palace: Join your local guide on an exploration of Schonbrunn Palace, the former summer residence of the Habsburg family, one of the most prominent dynasties in European history. Discover the countless rooms where famous artists and craftsmen from many different epochs created interiors of great beauty and learn the history and tales of the royal family that lived in these walls. After the guided tour you will have some time to see the impressive gardens before returning to your Scenic Space-Ship.

 

Central Vienna guided tour: The city centre of Vienna is brimming with history, elegance and diverse architecture. During this tour your expert local guide will delight you with stories from the city before allowing you free time to discover Vienna's gorgeous Christmas markets.

 

Belvedere Museum: Visit one of Europe's most stunning Baroque landmarks and explore the greatest collection of Austrian art dating from the Middle Ages to the present day on a guided tour.

 

This afternoon is free to wander around Vienna, or simply relax on board your Scenic Space-Ship.

 

Enrich Take in the opulence and luxury of Palais Liechtenstein this evening as you relish an exclusive private classical concert. Enjoy a glass of fine Austrian Sekt and listen to the timeless music of Strauss and Mozart performed by a renowned orchestra. An experience only shared with your fellow Scenic guests, you'll be seated in Vienna's largest secular baroque hall, an ornate space where royals and nobles have sat for centuries. Accompanied by ballet dancers and vocalists and surrounded by world-famous art, this will be a concert that you'll remember for a lifetime.

 

Day 17 Bratislava, Slovakia

Slovakia's capital since independence in 1993, Bratislava is a modern multicultural metropolis with an intriguing history. Its Old Town is filled with glorious examples of medieval and Gothic architecture and a well-preserved hilltop castle, which dates to the 9th century. These charming historic sites contrast with the brutalist socialist architecture evident around the city.

Freechoice: As we dock in the city centre, choose from today's Scenic Freechoice excursions:

Walking tour of Bratislava: Explore Bratislava with a knowledgeable local guide to see the highlights of the city such as the Hlavne Namestie, the main square and the Old Town Hall. As you walk, learn about the history of the city and enjoy a mulled wine from the local Christmas market.

Wines of Slovakia: Slovakian's Wines are quite young but, all over the world, wine experts are beginning to praise their flavour and quality. Embark on a journey through the different wine regions of Slovakia as you enjoy a tasting in one of Bratislava's cellars.

Day 18 Budapest, Hungary

Today we arrive in Budapest, one of Europe's most diverse and vibrant cities. Divided by the Danube, with Buda on one side and Pest on the other, the city came together in 1873 when a newly built bridge connected the two. Budapest is an architectural treasure trove comprising styles from Gothic to Art Nouveau and everything in between. It is also well known for its hot springs and thermal baths and has a vibrant nightlife scene.

Freechoice: A range of Scenic Freechoice activities are on offer to choose from today:

Budapest in Depth: Explore this magical city by coach. Visit both Buda and Pest, the two districts separated by the Danube. Starting on the Buda side see the Varkert Bazar before crossing the Margaret Bridge to the Pest side where you will see Szechenyi square and Elizabeth Square. End your tour with a visit to Budapest's lively Christmas market.

National Opera house tour: Get a captivating glimpse of the stunning architecture and rich history of the Hungarian State Opera house. You'll walk through opulent interiors and learn about the Opera House's cultural significance.

Day 19 Budapest, Hungary

After a hearty breakfast, you'll be transferred to Budapest Airport for your onward or homebound flight, taking a lifetime of wonderful festive memories with you.

Terms and Conditions

Terms and Conditions apply: All prices are quoted in Australian dollars, based on per person double occupancy unless stated otherwise, and inclusive of all taxes and discounts. All prices & itineraries are current as of 15 April 2025 & subject to change without notice. Prices are subject to change due to availability, currency fluctuations, fuel price, and tax increases. Oceanview and Balcony cabins may have obstructed views, please check with your consultant. Price includes any stated bonus nights, upgrades & package savings, if applicable. Azamara from pricing is based on Club Oceanview category 08, Club Veranda category V3, Club Continent Suite category N2. Scenic from pricing is based on Oceanview (Standard Suite) Category E, Balcony Suite Category C, Royal Balcony Suite Category RR. All passports, visas, travel permits, and vaccinations are the responsibility of the travelling passenger to secure prior to travel. Airfares are capacity controlled and are subject to change at any time without notice, based in economy class from Sydney and are subject to the carriers' flight schedules and conditions. Seasonal and flight routing surcharges may apply. Airfares are based on the lowest available fare, which comes with strict conditions i.e., non-refundable, or non-changeable. Please ask your consultant for pricing on flexible fare options that allow cancellations and/or amendments at a fee. Please call us for prices from other airports. Travel packages advertised may include multiple products provided by several suppliers to provide a travel itinerary. Each component of the package will be treated independent of each other, and the specific terms & conditions of each product supplier will apply. Hotels may charge resort fees, or a security bond not included or mentioned in this package, payable direct upon check-in. We reserve the right to correct errors without penalty.

Danube Christmas Markets & Mediterranean Joy

Includes:
  • Cruise
  • Flights
  • Hotel
  • Transfers

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