- Overview
- Trip Itinerary
- Trip Includes
- Trip Excludes
- Gallery
- FAQ
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 carolers, all while cruising along one of Europe's most storied waterways.
Azamara Cruise Highlights:
- Sail through three countries with six immersive port calls
- Includes an overnight stay in the French Riviera gem of Nice
- Savour an overnight stay near Florence and Pisa, with ample time to take in Tuscany's cultural and culinary delights
- Experience Italy's rich history
Scenic River Cruise Highlights
- Soak up the festive atmosphere in Europe during visits to the Christmas Markets along the Danube River
- Think festive market stalls twinkling with fairy lights piled high with gingerbread and hand-blown glass ornaments while traditional songs play in the background
- Taste the regional specialties of the Wachau Valley with a local producer on board your Scenic Spaceship
- Meet the current owners of Artstetten Castle, home and burial place of Archduke Franz Ferdinand
Azamara Bonus Onboard Credit
Up to US$450 of onboard credit per stateroom* for new bookings made before 30 September 2025.
*The amount of onboard credit received will be determined by the voyage length and stateroom booked.
Voyages up to 11-nights
Interior & Oceanview | $200 Onboard Credit per stateroom
Veranda | $300 Onboard Credit per stateroom
Suite | $450 Onboard Credit per stateroom
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Itineraries
Day 1
Date : November 26, 2026
Barcelona, Spain
Upon arrival into Barcelona you will be driven by private car to your hotel where you will spend the next 2 nights.
Day 2
Date : November 27, 2026
Barcelona, Spain
Day at leisure discovering Barcelona and her beauty.
Day 3
Date : November 28, 2026
Barcelona, Spain - Embark Azamara Onward
Morning at leisure. Check-out hotel and make own way to pier & embark Azamara Onward. 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.
Departure Time: 6:00 PM
Day 4
Date : November 29, 2026
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.
Arrival Time: 8:00 AM
Departure Time: 8:00 PM
Day 5
Date : November 30, 2026
Time : 8:00 am
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.
Arrival Time: 8:00 AM
Day 6
Date : December 1, 2026
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.
Departure Time: 8:00 PM
Day 7
Date : December 2, 2026
La Spezia, Italy
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.
Arrival Time: 8:00 AM
Departure Time: 8:00 PM
Day 8
Date : December 3, 2026
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.
Arrival Time: 8:00 AM
Day 9
Florence / Pisa (Livorno), Italy
Departure Time: 6:00 PM
Day 10
Date : December 5, 2026
Rome (Civitavecchia), Italy - Disembark & fly to Munich
Upon disembarking in Civitavecchia, you will be privately transferred to Rome airport to continue your journey in Munich for the next 2 nights.
A city where old-world charm meets modern sophistication, Munich is a cultural jewel in the heart of Bavaria. Stroll grand boulevards lined with Baroque architecture, explore world-class museums, and savor refined cuisine in elegant beer halls and Michelin-starred restaurants alike. From the opulent Residenz Palace to the tranquil English Garden, Munich blends heritage, artistry, and cosmopolitan flair with effortless grace.
Arrival Time: 6:00 AM
Departure Time: 6:00 PM
Day 11
Date : December 6, 2026
Munich, Germany
Day at leisure to discover Munich
Day 12
Date : December 7, 2026
Munich to Regensburg - Embark Scenic Amber
Check-out hotel, make own way to Munich airport to pick up Scenic transfer 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
Date : December 8, 2026
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
Date : December 9, 2026
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
Date : December 10, 2026
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
Date : December 11, 2026
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
Date : December 12, 2026
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
Date : December 13, 2026
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
Date : December 14, 2026
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.
Azamara Cruises Always Includes
- Variety of Dining Venues & Room Service
- Drinks, Including Alcohol, All Day & Night
- Tips & Gratuities
- Exclusive Cultural Events
- Unlimited Self-Service Laundry
- Bonus onboard credit up to USD$450 per state room*
Always Expected
- Overnights & Extended Destination Days
- Unique & Iconic Destinations
- No Hassle, No Crowds
Scenic River Cruise Inclusions
- 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 mealtimes
- Complimentary mini bar restocked daily
- Scenic Enrich - exclusive events to immerse you in the local culture
- Scenic Free choice - your choice of excursions to personalise your journey
- Travel Insurance – your North Travel consultant can provide you with a quote. Get a quote now.
- Tourism visa or transit visa if required
- Upgrades to Premium Economy, Business Class and First Class available and to be quote at the time of booking.
- Itinerary deviations (e.g. extensions or specific airline requests). This will be quoted by a North Travel consultant at the time of booking.
- Professional service fee's (if any)
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While it's not strictly mandatory for all bookings, North Travel highly recommends and, in many cases, requires you to have adequate travel insurance for international travel, and strongly advises it for domestic trips. It's a non-negotiable for your peace of mind and protection.
On some itineraries and tours you may be required to have comprehensive travel insurance by the travel supplier. One of our consultants can guide you on this.
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