Mulled Wine & Glow of Lights

5 days
Nov 2027 - Dec 2027
Museum Visits

2027

from

$2,095

per person

Best Price Promise & Private Fares
from $2,095 per person

A winter river cruise from Passau to Vienna, Krems, Melk, Linz, and back to Passau is a journey full of enchantment. Departing from Passau, where the Danube, Inn, and Ilz rivers meet, you are greeted by misty waters and sparkling snowy banks that reflect the winter sun.

In Vienna, imperial grandeur awaits – the St. Stephen’s Cathedral, the Hofburg Palace, and glowing Christmas markets fill the city with magic. Winter reveals Vienna’s romantic soul: cozy cafés, the aroma of roasted chestnuts and mulled wine, and the snowy Ringstrasse.

As you sail into Krems, the heart of the Wachau Valley unfolds – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Even in winter, terraced vineyards, medieval castle ruins, and charming villages create a serene landscape. In Melk, the magnificent Benedictine Abbey rises above the Danube, resembling a fairy-tale castle shrouded in winter mist.

Linz offers a vibrant contrast: a blend of historic old town and modern cultural life. Illuminated squares, the snowy riverside, and inviting cafés make the city a warm winter stop.

Returning to Passau, the view of the snow-covered old town and festive lights brings this magical cruise to a perfect close – combining majestic nature, cultural treasures, and the contemplative beauty of winter.

Itinerary

day 1 | Passau

Due to its special geographical location at the confluence of the Danube, Inn and Ilz rivers, Passau is undoubtedly one of the most unique cities in Germany. But not only the location of the city on the three rivers is exceptional, Passau also offers its visitors numerous remarkable sights. Towering above the city is the Veste Oberhaus, an impressive fortress dating back to the 13th century. The old town of Passau is known for its beautiful baroque architecture, especially the Cathedral of St. Stephen with its characteristic onion domes and the largest cathedral organ in the world with almost 18,000 pipes..

Passau is a German city located in the Southeast of Germany on the Austrian border. It is situated at the confluence of the rivers Danube, Inn and Ilz. The Three Rivers City, as it’s also known, is unique for its three contrasting currents of blue, green and black. Old Town of Passau is home to towering buildings of striking architecture: the majestic fortress Veste Oberhaus, the Pilgrimage Church Mariahilf and St Stephen's Cathedral. Many of Passau’s attractions can be found in this area, including the New Bishop’s Residence, the Gothic Town Hall, as well as many churches and museums. Visitors can stroll along the riverfront promenades and romantic lanes whilst enjoying the picturesque landscape. For modern art, The Museum of Modern Art and Glass Museum Passau are recommended as they offer something a bit different. Theatre and cabaret are a popular evening pastime, with performances at the former Prince Bishopric Theatre or some lively cabaret and Jazz at the Scharfrichterhaus. Visitors will also find many traditional local Bavarian and Austrian cafes and restaurants offering a cosy atmosphere with home cooked food from local produce.


day 2 | Vienna

The capital of Austria is one of those cities that every traveler should have visited once in the course of his life. Hardly any other city in the world has to offer such an enchanting combination of magnificent architecture, world-famous museums and theaters and beautiful green spaces. No wonder, the entire city center of Vienna is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site. Vienna is known worldwide for its palaces of emperors, kings and nobles, such as Schönbrunn Palace, the Belvedere and the Hofburg. But the city's many churches, especially the landmark St. Stephen's Cathedral, are also worth a visit. Museum visitors come at the numerous world-class museums in the city, such as the Albertina, the Museum of Art History and the Museum Leopold anyway fully at their expense..

Vienna is the capital and largest city of Austria. Located on the Danube River in the East of the country, the city is renowned for its strong music heritage and rich culture, and is the largest German speaking city in the world, outside of Berlin. In 2001, Vienna was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and boasts magnificent architecture. The city is home to over 27 castles and 150 palaces including the symbolic Gothic St Stephen’s Cathedral and the iconic Schönbrunn Palace. Art and music are in abundance and all tastes are catered for. Live music venues offer everything from Rock to Opera. Enjoy world class performances at Vienna State Opera and experience the epicentre of international concert life at Musikverein. Modern and historical art can be found in indoor and outdoor spaces around the city, and a visit to the famous Kunsthistorisches Museum (KHM) is highly recommended. Enjoy views of the city from the Danube Tower and the Giant Ferris Wheel, then relax in the ample cosy coffee houses, cafes, bars and restaurants where traditional and international cuisines are served, as well as the locally produced wines.


day 3 | Krems

Krems is considered one of the oldest towns in Austria: it was first mentioned as Chremisa as early as 995, and the town charter for Krems and Stein is documented for the year 1305. This centuries-long history, which has always been closely interwoven with the Danube, is reflected in the old towns, which have been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site together with the Wachau since 2000. There is much to discover on a walk through Krems and Stein: be it the many churches from different eras or the narrow, cobbled streets and picturesque squares with their historic buildings, statues and small monuments - those who walk through Krems and Stein with open eyes will be richly rewarded! If the Wachau weather is not in such a good mood, the museums of the Art Mile Krems offer a varied program for young and old.

Krems an der Donau is a city in Northeast Austria located approximately forty three miles from Vienna. The city is situated on the banks of the river Danube and is one of the oldest of the Wachau Valley. Krems prides itself on historical preservation and has recently been awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status. The history of the city dates back more than a thousand years with evidence found in its streets, squares, monasteries, churches and fortifications. Krems is also a modern city which celebrates its contemporary art and modern literature as well as being a leader in biotech application research. Exploring Krems is easily done on foot with city walking tours being very popular. Discover Old Krems and the Art Mile and learn about the city’s rich history at Museum Krems. As with many wine cities, food and drink is in abundance with popular restaurants and wine bars housed in historical buildings which enhance and deepen the dining and wine tasting experience.


day 3 | Melk

Melk has acquired a beautiful name: the gateway to the Wachau. Anyone approaching the historic town on the Danube will discover Melk Abbey perched high above the river very early on. The abbey is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site and worth a visit in all seasons. The impressive Baroque ensemble has been cared for by the monks of the Benedictine order since the year 1089. Culture, faith and science are united in the magnificent rooms of the monastery.

Melk is an Austrian town situated on the River Danube. Located west of Vienna, the town is mostly famous for its 11th Century Melk Abbey, a magnificent monastery built high above the town. Melk Abbey is the largest example of Baroque architecture in the Wachau Valley, with the valley itself awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status in 2000. Its steep terraced vineyards mean vinters cultivate with traditional manual practices and the springtime sees this unique landscape covered in apricot tree blossoms. Strolling around the streets of Melk Old Town, visitors will find the Town Hall Square, the Main Square, the old Post Office, now a local museum, Old Abbey Tavern, and Kremser Strasse. River cruises, self-guided walking tours and cycle tours are also extremely popular around Melk, as the Wachau Valley offers unique landscape to be explored and enjoyed. Art festivals and Baroque music is celebrated each year with the Melk Baroque Days, an international festival.


day 4 | Linz

Linz is the capital of the province of Upper Austria. Around around the central main square invite churches, pretty facades and charming stores invite you to a stroll through the old town. Who once here, should definitely stop at one of the cozy Kaffeehäuser and enjoy the world-famous Linzer Tortesince it tastes best in its homeland. A dreamhaftes panorama is offered by the Pörstlingberg, which can be reached on foot or convenient to reach by mountain railroad. From the viewplatform and the baroque pilgrimage church is recommended Detour to the Grottenbahn, an enchanting fairy-tale world that not only brings children's eyes to shine.

Linz is a city in northern Austria located on both banks of the Danube River and is a short distance from Salzburg and Vienna. Linz has been awarded UNESCO City of Media Arts status and prides itself on offering a broad spectrum of events, activities and cultural institutions. Enjoy popular open air concert such as Klassik am Dom and extravagant street performances, which attract large crowds and popular international artists. Art galleries and centres are in abundance around the city as well as many museums housing international collections and depictions of the history and heritage of Linz. The architecture of the city also plays an important role in Linz’s cultural heritage with Main Square, Old Town and Mariendom Cathedral being some key attractions. Families will enjoy a trip to Postlingberg, located high up in the mountains and featuring a zoo, the Grottenbahn and spectacular views of the river and city below.


day 5 | Passau

Passau is a German city located in the Southeast of Germany on the Austrian border. It is situated at the confluence of the rivers Danube, Inn and Ilz. The Three Rivers City, as it’s also known, is unique for its three contrasting currents of blue, green and black. Old Town of Passau is home to towering buildings of striking architecture: the majestic fortress Veste Oberhaus, the Pilgrimage Church Mariahilf and St Stephen's Cathedral. Many of Passau’s attractions can be found in this area, including the New Bishop’s Residence, the Gothic Town Hall, as well as many churches and museums. Visitors can stroll along the riverfront promenades and romantic lanes whilst enjoying the picturesque landscape. For modern art, The Museum of Modern Art and Glass Museum Passau are recommended as they offer something a bit different. Theatre and cabaret are a popular evening pastime, with performances at the former Prince Bishopric Theatre or some lively cabaret and Jazz at the Scharfrichterhaus. Visitors will also find many traditional local Bavarian and Austrian cafes and restaurants offering a cosy atmosphere with home cooked food from local produce.


What's included

VIVA All-Inclusive

  • Diner

    Full board with breakfast buffet, lunch, dinner (multi-course gourmet menus, served at the table) and snacks with free choice of table and flexible meal times.

  • Soda

    All day high quality hot and cold non-alcoholic beverages and a selection of alcoholic beverages; have a look at our bar menu

  • High Tea

    High Tea: once per trip a selection of sweet and savory treats such as scones, sandwiches, cupcakes, chocolates and macarons. A variety of teas are offered to match

  • Minibar

    daily freshly stocked minibar and reusable water bottle in the cabin

  • Sekt

    A warm welcome with a welcome champagne - here's to a wonderful stay on board

  • Beauty

    Selected beauty products from RITUALS

  • Wifi

    Free WLAN on board - for undisturbed reception

  • Service

    Tips for the entire crew


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DISCLAIMER: Rates are per person, subject to availability and can change at any time

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