Tour Introduction
Experience the magic of a European Christmas as we journey through enchanting cities, charming medieval villages and some of Europe's most spectacular festive markets. From the twinkling lights of Budapest and Vienna to Germany's fairytale Christmas towns, we'll cruise in luxury along the Danube, Main and Rhine rivers aboard our beautiful Emerald Star-Ship. Along the way, we'll discover centuries-old traditions, indulge in delicious seasonal treats and enjoy unforgettable cultural experiences before finishing with three wonderful nights in Paris, the City of Light, dressed in its Christmas finest. With festive cheer around every corner, beautiful scenery and the warmth of travelling with your fellow Sisters, this is a Christmas adventure filled with magic, friendship and memories to treasure.Highlights
Experience the magic of Europe's enchanting Christmas markets across six countries
Cruise the Danube, Main and Rhine rivers aboard a luxurious Emerald Star-Ship
Discover Budapest's magnificent architecture and sparkling Christmas markets
Enjoy a traditional Hungarian dinner and lively folklore performance
Share coffee and cake with a local Slovakian family in Bratislava
Explore Vienna's grand boulevards and magical Christmas markets
Cruise through Austria's breathtaking Wachau Valley
Discover the magnificent Baroque interiors of Melk Abbey
Experience the magical Thurn und Taxis Palace Christmas market
Enjoy a traditional Bavarian band performance on board
Wander through Nuremberg's world-famous Christmas market
Explore Germany's fairytale medieval towns and charming cobblestone streets
Enjoy a private concert and wine tasting at historic Bronnbach Abbey
Discover Rüdesheim's colourful Christmas Market of Nations
Experience Cologne's festive atmosphere beneath its magnificent cathedral
Explore Amsterdam's picturesque canals and Dutch Christmas traditions
Spend three wonderful nights in Paris, the sparkling City of Light
Admire Paris's iconic landmarks on a scenic Seine River cruise
Discover Paris's beautiful Christmas markets, boutiques and charming cafés
Share the magic of a European Christmas with your fellow Sisters
Inclusions
Hosted throughout by a Sisterhood Womens Travel Tour Hostess, ensuring a smooth, supported and memorable travel experience
Return Economy airfares ex Melbourne including taxes (other departure cities available on request, Business Class upgrades available on request)
14-night luxury European river cruise aboard an Emerald Cruises Star-Ship
3 nights' accommodation in a centrally located Paris hotel
All transportation and transfers as specified in the itinerary
Professional English-speaking local guides for included sightseeing excursions
All meals as specified in the itinerary – Breakfast (B), Lunch (L), Dinner (D)
Guided sightseeing tours and excursions as specified in the itinerary
Willing to share option (subject to availability)
Zoom Meet and Greet before departure (subject to minimum numbers attending)
Notice
Activity Level:
This tour is designed for travellers with a moderate level of fitness who enjoy cultural sightseeing, festive experiences and exploring Europe's beautiful historic cities and towns on foot. Throughout our journey, we'll discover enchanting Christmas markets, medieval villages, magnificent architectural landmarks and charming cobblestone streets, while enjoying the comfort of a luxurious European river cruise and three wonderful nights in Paris.
Travellers should be comfortable walking for extended periods on sightseeing days, often over cobblestones, uneven paving and occasional steps while maintaining the group's pace. Exploring Christmas markets involves considerable time standing and walking, while cold winter temperatures and potentially wet or slippery surfaces can add to the physical demands. Travellers must also be able to board and disembark the river cruise vessel, coaches and excursion boats independently.
Activity Factors:
✔ Regular guided walking tours throughout the itinerary
✔ Walking through Budapest's historic Castle District and Christmas markets
✔ Exploring Bratislava's cobblestone Old Town
✔ Guided sightseeing through Vienna's historic centre
✔ Walking through Melk Abbey, including steps and historic interiors
✔ Guided walking tours through Passau and Regensburg
✔ Exploring Nuremberg's famous Christmas market
✔ Walking through the medieval streets of Bamberg
✔ Guided sightseeing in Würzburg, including the Würzburg Residence
✔ Walking through the historic town of Miltenberg
✔ Exploring Rüdesheim and its festive attractions
✔ Walking through Cologne during the included sightseeing experience
✔ Exploring Amsterdam's Christmas attractions
✔ Guided sightseeing in Paris and boarding a Seine River cruise
✔ Cobblestones, uneven paving and occasional steps in historic towns
✔ Extended periods standing while exploring Christmas markets
✔ Cold winter temperatures and potentially wet or slippery surfaces
✔ Regular boarding and disembarking the river cruise vessel and coaches
✔ Independent luggage handling when required
✔ Comfortable river cruising providing opportunities to rest between excursions
✘ No compulsory hiking or trekking
✘ No sustained long-distance walking days
✘ No technically challenging terrain
✘ No compulsory strenuous physical activities
Additional Meal Allowance:
All meals are included throughout our 14-night luxury European river cruise, leaving plenty of opportunities to indulge in delicious festive treats while exploring Europe's enchanting Christmas markets. During our three-night stay in Paris, breakfast and our farewell dinner are included, with other meals at leisure. For comfortable budgeting, we recommend allowing approximately EUR400 per person (approximately AUD720) for meals not included, together with coffees, drinks, mulled wine, festive snacks and incidental treats throughout the tour.
Tipping:
While tipping is appreciated throughout Europe as a gesture of thanks for good service, we have taken care of all gratuities as part of your tour cost. This includes tips for our local guides, drivers and other service providers throughout the journey, so there is no need to budget for additional group tipping. Should you wish to personally recognise exceptional service, any additional gratuities are entirely at your discretion.
Visa Information and Travel Advice:
Please visit www.smartraveller.gov.au for travel and health advice for European countries.
Emerald Waterways Cruises:
For more information about Emerald Waterway Cruises - CLICK HERE
Itinerary
Day 1 - Sunday 21 November 2027
Melbourne - Budapest
Today, our wonderful Christmas adventure begins as we farewell Australia and make our way towards Europe. There's something especially exciting about setting off on a journey at this time of year, knowing that twinkling Christmas lights, charming festive markets and some of Europe's most beautiful cities are waiting to welcome us.
Settle in for our international flight, enjoy the opportunity to get to know your fellow Sisters and start dreaming of the magical experiences ahead.
Day 2 - Monday 22 November 2027
Budapest, Hungary - Welcome! (D)
Welcome to Budapest, one of Europe's most captivating capitals, where magnificent architecture, historic bridges and the mighty Danube create a truly spectacular setting.
On arrival, we'll be transferred to our luxurious Emerald Star-Ship, our floating home for the next 14 nights. Here, we'll be welcomed by the friendly captain and crew before settling into our cabins and discovering the wonderful facilities on board.
This evening, we'll enjoy our first taste of Hungarian hospitality with a traditional Hungarian dinner, followed by a lively folklore performance featuring local music and dancing. What a wonderful introduction to our European Christmas adventure!
Overnight - Onboard Emerald Star Ship
Special Experience: Traditional Hungarian folklore show.
Day 3 - Tuesday 23 November 2027
Budapest, A City Dressed for Christmas (B, L, D)
Today, we'll discover the magnificent Hungarian capital, a city of two distinct halves, Buda and Pest, separated by the beautiful Danube River.
Our guided sightseeing tour introduces us to Budapest's fascinating history and architectural treasures. We'll admire Heroes' Square, the Liberty Statue and the historic Buda Castle district before exploring the charming streets surrounding Matthias Church and Fisherman's Bastion, where spectacular views across the city await.
Then comes one of the highlights we've all been waiting for – our first European Christmas market! Wander amongst beautifully decorated stalls, admire handcrafted ornaments and soak up the festive atmosphere as Budapest sparkles with seasonal cheer.
There's something quite magical about experiencing a European Christmas market for the very first time, and Budapest certainly knows how to put on a show.
Overnight - Onboard Emerald Star Ship
Included Experience: Guided sightseeing tour of Budapest and Christmas market visit.
Day 4 - Wednesday 24 November 2027
Bratislava, Slovakia – Medieval Charm & Slovakian Hospitality (B, L, D)
This morning, we'll arrive in Bratislava, Slovakia's charming capital, where cobblestone streets, colourful buildings and historic squares provide the perfect backdrop for a festive day of exploration.
Join our local guide for a walking tour through the atmospheric Old Town, discovering the Old Town Hall, the Slovak National Theatre and elegant architecture that reflects the city's fascinating past.
One of today's special experiences is a wonderful opportunity to step beyond the usual tourist attractions. We'll be welcomed into the home of a local Slovakian family for coffee and cake, learning about their everyday lives, traditions and culture.
Afterwards, enjoy some free time to explore Bratislava's Christmas atmosphere, browse the market stalls or perhaps find a cosy café for a warming drink.
Overnight - Onboard Emerald Star Ship
Special Experience: Home-hosted coffee and cake with a Slovakian family.
Optional Experience: Small Carpathian Wine Route excursion (additional cost).
Day 5 - Thursday 25 November 2027
Vienna, Austria – Christmas in the City of Music (B, L, D)
Few cities embrace the magic of Christmas quite like Vienna. With its grand imperial buildings, elegant cafés, classical music and magnificent festive markets, Austria's capital is a wonderful place to experience the European Christmas season.
Today, we'll discover the city's famous landmarks on a guided sightseeing tour, travelling along the impressive Ringstrasse and admiring architectural treasures including the Vienna State Opera, Burgtheater and Parliament.
There'll also be time to explore at leisure, perhaps wandering through one of Vienna's beautiful Christmas markets, where wooden stalls are filled with decorations, handcrafted gifts and delicious seasonal treats.
For those who wish to experience even more of Vienna's imperial elegance, an optional visit to Schönbrunn Palace is available. Alternatively, music lovers may enjoy an optional evening concert celebrating the timeless works of Vienna's great composers.
Overnight - Onboard Emerald Star Ship
Included Experience: Guided tour of Vienna.
Optional Experiences: Schönbrunn Palace or a Viennese classical music concert (additional cost).
Day 6 - Friday 26 November 2027
Dürnstein & Melk, Austria – Cruising the Beautiful Wachau Valley (B, L, D)
Today, we'll discover one of Austria's most picturesque regions as we cruise through the magnificent Wachau Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed landscape renowned for its vineyards, charming villages and historic castles.
Our first stop is the delightful town of Dürnstein, where pastel-coloured buildings and cobblestone streets create a picture-perfect setting. Enjoy some free time to explore this charming riverside village at your own pace.
Later, we'll continue our journey along the Danube towards Melk, home to one of Austria's most spectacular architectural treasures, Melk Abbey.
During our included guided visit, we'll discover the abbey's magnificent Baroque interiors, beautifully decorated rooms and extraordinary library, home to a remarkable collection of historic manuscripts.
As we return to our Emerald Star-Ship, relax and enjoy the ever-changing scenery along this beautiful stretch of the Danube.
Overnight - Onboard Emerald Star Ship
Included Experience: Guided tour of Melk Abbey.
Day 7 - Saturday 27 November 2027
Passau, Germany – Three Rivers & Christmas Traditions (B, L, D)
Welcome to Passau, a beautiful Bavarian town situated at the meeting point of three rivers – the Danube, Inn and Ilz.
Known for its romantic lanes, grand squares and colourful Baroque buildings, Passau is particularly enchanting during the Christmas season.
This morning, we'll join our local guide for a walking tour through the historic Old Town, admiring the Gothic Town Hall, Bishop's Residence and magnificent St Stephen's Cathedral, home to one of Europe's most impressive church organs.
Afterwards, enjoy the festive atmosphere of Passau's traditional Christmas market, where the scent of freshly baked treats and warm Glühwein fills the air.
For Sisters wanting to venture further afield, optional excursions are available to Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart and setting for The Sound of Music, or the fairytale medieval town of Český Krumlov in the Czech Republic.
Overnight - Onboard Emerald Star Ship
Included Experience: Guided walking tour of Passau.
Optional Experiences: Salzburg or Český Krumlov (additional cost).
Day 8 - Sunday 28 November 2027
Regensburg & Kelheim, Germany – A Bavarian Christmas (B, L, D)
Today, we'll step back in time as we explore Regensburg, one of Germany's best-preserved medieval cities.
Our guided walking tour takes us through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town, where narrow cobblestone lanes, historic buildings and charming squares reveal more than 2,000 years of history. We'll admire the impressive 12th-century Stone Bridge and discover the city's magnificent medieval architecture.
One of today's highlights is a visit to the atmospheric Christmas market held within the grounds of Thurn und Taxis Palace. With its beautifully decorated wooden stalls, festive lights and traditional Bavarian treats, this is a truly special setting for a Christmas market.
We'll even receive a voucher for a warming cup of Glühwein to enjoy as we wander amongst the stalls.
Later, we'll return to our Emerald Star-Ship and cruise through the scenic Main-Danube Canal, passing Kelheim as we continue towards Nuremberg.
This evening, we'll enjoy a wonderful taste of Bavaria with a traditional live band performance on board.
Overnight - Onboard Emerald Star Ship
Special Experiences: Thurn und Taxis Palace Christmas market with Glühwein and Bavarian band performance.
Day 9 - Monday 29 November 2027
Nuremberg, Germany – A Christmas Wonderland (B, L, D)
Today, we'll arrive in Nuremberg, a city renowned for its fascinating history and one of Germany's most celebrated Christmas markets.
Our guided sightseeing tour introduces us to the city's remarkable past, from its medieval importance to the events of the Second World War and the impressive reconstruction that followed.
We'll admire beautifully restored half-timbered buildings, historic landmarks and the charming streets of the Old Town.
Afterwards, enjoy time to explore Nuremberg's famous Christmas market, where traditional wooden stalls offer handcrafted decorations, festive gifts and delicious regional specialities.
Perhaps sample some traditional Nuremberg gingerbread or enjoy a warming mug of Glühwein while soaking up the atmosphere.
With its twinkling lights, centuries-old traditions and wonderful festive spirit, Nuremberg is sure to be a highlight of our Christmas journey.
Overnight - Onboard Emerald Star Ship
Included Experience: Guided sightseeing tour of Nuremberg.
Day 10 - Tuesday 30 November 2027
Bamberg, Germany – A Fairytale Medieval Town (B, L, D)
Today, we'll discover Bamberg, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed town that looks as though it has stepped straight from the pages of a storybook.
With its beautifully preserved half-timbered buildings, winding cobblestone streets and magnificent Baroque architecture, Bamberg is a delight to explore.
Join our local guide as we discover the city's fascinating history and admire landmarks including the grand New Residence and its beautiful Rose Garden.
At Christmas, Bamberg becomes even more enchanting, with several festive markets scattered throughout its historic centre. Enjoy the opportunity to browse traditional decorations, admire beautiful nativity displays and sample local treats.
Bamberg is also famous for its traditional brewing heritage, so Sisters who enjoy a beer may wish to try the town's distinctive local speciality.
Overnight - Onboard Emerald Star Ship
Included Experience: Guided walking tour of Bamberg
Day 11 - Wednesday 1 December 2027
Würzburg, Germany – The Romantic Road at Christmas (B, L, D)
Welcome to Würzburg, a beautiful Bavarian city surrounded by rolling vineyards and renowned for its magnificent architecture and wine-making traditions.
Often referred to as the Pearl of the Romantic Road, Würzburg is particularly lovely during the festive season.
Today, we'll join our local guide for a walking tour of the city, including a visit to the spectacular Würzburg Residence, a UNESCO World Heritage-listed palace celebrated for its breathtaking Baroque interiors.
We'll discover the fascinating history of this grand building and learn how it was painstakingly restored following the destruction of the Second World War.
Afterwards, enjoy time to explore Würzburg's traditional Christmas market, where more than 100 wooden stalls offer handcrafted gifts, festive decorations and delicious seasonal treats.
For those wanting to discover another of Germany's most enchanting destinations, an optional excursion to Rothenburg is available. This beautifully preserved medieval town is particularly magical when dressed in its Christmas finery.
Overnight - Onboard Emerald Star Ship
Included Experience: Guided walking tour of Würzburg and visit to the Würzburg Residence.
Optional Experience: Rothenburg excursion (additional cost).
Day 12 - Thursday 2 December 2027
Wertheim & Miltenberg, Germany – Picture-Perfect Villages (B, L, D)
Today, we'll discover two of Germany's most charming riverside towns, beginning with a short stop in Wertheim before continuing to beautiful Miltenberg.
Nestled beside the River Main and surrounded by forested hills, Miltenberg is renowned for its colourful half-timbered houses, medieval streets and welcoming atmosphere.
Join our local guide for a walking tour through the historic town, where we'll discover the Gothic Merchant Hall, Miltenberg Castle and one of Germany's oldest inns, dating back to at least 1411.
At Christmas, the town's pretty streets come alive with festive decorations and charming market stalls selling traditional crafts and seasonal delicacies.
Perhaps treat yourself to a slice of apple streusel cake, a local favourite.
Another special experience awaits with a visit to historic Bronnbach Abbey, a beautifully preserved Cistercian monastery. Here, we'll enjoy a private concert and wine tasting in a truly memorable setting.
Overnight - Onboard Emerald Star Ship
Special Experience: Bronnbach Abbey visit with private concert and wine tasting.
Day 13 - Friday 3 December 2027
Rüdesheim & Koblenz, Germany – Christmas Along the Rhine (B, L, D)
Today, our Christmas journey continues along the beautiful Rhine River as we arrive in the charming wine town of Rüdesheim.
With its narrow lanes, traditional half-timbered buildings and sparkling festive decorations, Rüdesheim is a wonderful place to experience the magic of a German Christmas.
The town is famous for its Christmas Market of Nations, where stalls representing countries from around the world showcase their festive traditions, handcrafted gifts and seasonal specialities.
Our included excursion takes us aboard the little Winzerexpress train through the town's picturesque streets to Siegfried's Mechanical Music Cabinet Museum.
Here, we'll discover an extraordinary collection of historic mechanical musical instruments, from delicate music boxes to magnificent self-playing orchestral creations.
Later, our journey continues towards Koblenz, where an optional German beer experience is available for those who wish to enjoy a taste of traditional local hospitality.
Overnight - Onboard Emerald Star Ship
Included Experience: Winzerexpress train ride and visit to Siegfried's Mechanical Music Cabinet Museum.
Optional Experience: German beer experience in Koblenz (additional cost).
Day 14 - Saturday 4 December 2027
Cologne, Germany – Christmas Beneath the Cathedral (B, L, D)
Today, we'll arrive in Cologne, one of Germany's oldest cities and home to some of Europe's most atmospheric Christmas markets.
Imagine the scent of roasted chestnuts, freshly baked gingerbread and warm mulled wine filling the air as festive lights illuminate the historic streets.
Cologne's magnificent Gothic cathedral provides a spectacular backdrop to the city's Christmas celebrations.
Today, we'll enjoy a slightly different way of exploring with an included experience called Quest for Cologne's Treasures.
Armed with a map, we'll discover the city's hidden gems, local delicacies and cultural highlights at our own pace, with guides available along the way to help us uncover the treasures.
There'll also be opportunities to browse the beautiful Christmas markets, where artisans showcase handcrafted ornaments, traditional gifts and delicious festive treats.
Perhaps enjoy a mug of Glühwein, sample some traditional Lebkuchen gingerbread or simply soak up the wonderful Christmas atmosphere.
Overnight - Onboard Emerald Star Ship
Included Experience: Quest for Cologne's Treasures.
Day 15 - Sunday 5 December 2027
Amsterdam, Netherlands – A Dutch Christmas (B, L, D)
Welcome to Amsterdam, where picturesque canals, elegant historic buildings and charming cobblestone streets create a beautiful setting for our final full day aboard our Emerald Star-Ship.
During the Christmas season, Amsterdam comes alive with sparkling lights, festive decorations and traditional winter markets.
Today, we'll discover the city's festive atmosphere with an included visit to Christmas Amsterdam, where charming market stalls offer handcrafted gifts, seasonal decorations and delicious Dutch treats.
Perhaps sample traditional oliebollen, sweet doughnut-like treats, or a freshly made stroopwafel while enjoying the sights and sounds of the season.
For Sisters wishing to explore a different side of Amsterdam, an optional Hidden Gems tour is available, taking in the historic Jordaan neighbourhood, a charming chocolate shop, a fascinating hidden church and a traditional local brewery.
Tonight, we'll enjoy our final evening aboard our Emerald Star-Ship, reflecting on the wonderful destinations, festive experiences and friendships we've shared along the way.
Overnight - Onboard Emerald Star Ship
Included Experience: Festive Amsterdam excursion.
Optional Experience: Hidden Gems of Amsterdam (additional cost).
Day 16 - Monday 6 December 2027
Amsterdam to Paris, France – Bonjour, City of Light! (B)
After breakfast, we'll farewell our Emerald Star-Ship and travel by coach to one of the world's most beautiful cities – Paris!
The French capital is enchanting at any time of year, but during the Christmas season, it takes on an entirely different kind of magic.
Think sparkling lights along the Champs-Élysées, spectacular festive window displays, charming Christmas markets and cosy Parisian cafés serving delicious pastries and warming drinks.
On arrival, we'll settle into our centrally located hotel, our home for the next three nights.
Later, we'll meet our Paris tour director and fellow guests for a welcome drink, before enjoying the opportunity to discover the city at our own pace.
Whether it's your first visit to Paris or you're returning to a favourite destination, there's always something wonderful waiting to be discovered.
Dinner at leisure tonight - your Sisterhood hostess will suggest a venue.
Overnight - Paris Accommodation
Day 17 - Tuesday 7 December 2027
Paris – Iconic Sights & Christmas Delights (B)
Today, we'll discover the timeless beauty of Paris on a guided sightseeing tour, taking in some of the city's most famous landmarks.
From the magnificent Notre-Dame Cathedral to the impressive Arc de Triomphe and elegant Champs-Élysées, we'll experience the grand architecture and romantic atmosphere that make Paris so special.
Later, we'll enjoy a scenic cruise along the River Seine, offering a completely different perspective of the city as we glide past historic bridges, beautiful riverside buildings and the iconic Eiffel Tower.
After our sightseeing, the remainder of the day is yours to enjoy.
Perhaps explore the festive stalls at the Tuileries Christmas market, admire the beautiful window displays at Galeries Lafayette or find a charming Parisian café for a coffee and pastry.
As evening falls, the city becomes even more magical, with sparkling illuminations and the Eiffel Tower's famous light display creating a wonderful festive atmosphere.
Dinner at leisure tonight - your Sisterhood hostess will suggest a venue.
Overnight - Paris Accommodation
Included Experience: Guided sightseeing tour of Paris and Seine River cruise.
Day 18 - Wednesday 8 December 2027
Explore Paris at Leisure (B, D)
Today is ours to enjoy the magic of Paris at our own pace.
With so much to see and do, the possibilities are endless!
Art lovers may wish to visit the world-famous Louvre Museum, home to the Mona Lisa and countless other masterpieces, while those interested in something a little different might choose to explore the fascinating Paris Catacombs.
Perhaps spend the day browsing boutiques, discovering hidden laneways, enjoying a leisurely lunch or visiting one of the city's beautiful Christmas markets.
For a truly Parisian experience, an optional guided food tour through the historic Le Marais district is available. Wander through charming medieval streets, admire elegant squares and sample delicious French pastries and local specialities along the way.
You might also choose to enjoy a Christmas concert, a festive ballet performance or simply indulge in a slice of traditional Bûche de Noël in a cosy Parisian tearoom.
Whatever we decide, today is about enjoying Paris our way.
Tonight, we'll celebrate gret times with good friends with our farewell dinner.
Optional Experience: Tastes of Paris walking tour (additional cost).
Day 19 - Thursday 9 December 2027
Au Revoir Paris (B)
Sadly, our magical European Christmas adventure comes to an end today.
After breakfast, it's time to farewell Paris and reflect on the wonderful experiences we've shared throughout our journey.
From the magnificent Christmas markets of Budapest and Vienna to the fairytale villages of Germany, the beautiful waterways of Europe and the sparkling streets of Paris, we've enjoyed a truly unforgettable festive adventure.
Day 20 - Friday 10 December 2027
Welcome Home
Welcome Home! Thank you for travelling with Sisterhood Womens Travel and we look forward to welcoming you back for your next adventure.