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Festive River Cruises To Europe At Christmas

A Christmas cruise or festive vacation is a great way to celebrate the winter season. 

Let the smell of sweet gingerbread fill your nostrils in Budapest, along the Danube, before sailing off to explore the sights of Vienna. Or perhaps you'll enjoy a yuletide greeting into Germany while gliding down the Rhine, taking in the fresh frosty air and listening to tour guides tell the legend of the Lorelei – a maiden said to induce sailors in with her alluring melodies. And, new for 2026, marvel at the elaborate decorations bejewelling French châteaux and castles along the Seine before exploring Paris, the City of Lights.

Unbeatable value

which always includes

  • Five-star ships with impeccable on-board service
  • Itinerary curated by Riviera experts
  • Insightful excursions & visits every day with local guides
  • Expert Riviera Cruise Director & Concierge looking after you throughout
  • Evening entertainment from quizzes to impressive performers
  • Onboard spa & wellness facilities
  • Onboard lounge, bar & restaurant
  • Delicious full board dining, plus Chef's Dinner
  • Free Wi-Fi

"I have travelled many times with Riviera and have always been delighted with the experience."

"The communication from beginning to end was excellent. The travel arrangements were well informed. The ship was wonderfully decorated for Christmas. The cabins were always neatly and cleanly presented. Food was first class. The itinerary was well organized, with many interesting places visited. I usually travel as a solo passenger, I was more than happy with the holiday and felt overall it was good value for money. I have noticed Riviera introducing more opportunities, and varied longer length vacations for solo travelers which I wholeheartedly welcome and look forward to many more solo adventures in the future."

-Feefo reivew by guest Mary on our Christmas on the Danube River Cruise - Decmeber 24

Find your perfect festive cruise

Classic view of Salzburg and Festung Hohensalzburg fortress illuminated at Christmas time in Austria
Traditional Christmas market at Vienna Town Hall at night in front of town hall
Aerial view of Salzburg's Christmas Market illuminated at night in Austria

River Cruise

Christmas on the Danube River Cruise

  • Austria, Hungary, Slovakia
  • 5* ships
  • Full board with Christmas Gala dinner
  • 9 included experiences
  • Live Christmas classical quartet recital
  • Hungarian Christmas Folklore Show