7 MAGICAL
NIGHTS
COUNTRIES
EVERYWHERE
VACAYA’S 2027 Europe Christmas Markets Cruise HAS SOLD OUT!
The 2027 Europe Christmas Markets Cruise is SOLD OUT. If you’d like to put your name on our waitlist for this trip, please follow these 2 easy steps:
- If you don’t yet have a profile in our booking system, set one up HERE.
- Once your profile has been completed, email info@myvacaya.com and provide us with the following information: full name, phone number, email address, type of room(s) you’re looking for
Once on the list, we’ll reach out to you in the order your name appears on our waitlist if a room that fits your request becomes available.
To avoid disappointment in the future, we encourage you to book soon after the trip becomes available. Doing so is the only way to truly avoid missing out. ❤️
HO! HO! HO! LET’S GOOOOOOOO!!!
Join VACAYA in December 2027 as we sail through the heart of Europe, where grand capitals, charming old towns, and storybook riverfront villages glow beneath the twinkle of the holiday season. From Budapest’s festive elegance to Vienna’s imperial grandeur, and from Bratislava’s cozy charm to the magical Christmas Markets of Germany, every stop on this journey feels like it was pulled from the pages of a holiday fairytale.
This is the Europe people dream about in December. Wooden stalls brimming with handmade treasures. Mulled wine warming your hands on crisp winter evenings. Town squares lit by thousands of sparkling lights. The scent of roasted nuts, gingerbread, pine, and cinnamon drifting through the air. Choirs singing. Church bells ringing. Cobblestone streets glowing under the magic of the season.
And then there’s the VACAYA difference. You won’t simply experience Europe’s Christmas Markets. You’ll experience them with your community, surrounded by warmth, joy, belonging, and all the magic that happens when VACAYA brings extraordinary people together in extraordinary places.
This is river cruising at its most intimate. This is Europe at its most enchanting. This is VACAYA’s 2027 Europe Christmas Markets Cruise!
SAIL THE DANUBE IN STYLE
BUDAPEST ALL AGLOW
CHARMING BRATISLAVA AT CHRISTMASTIME
VIENNA’S IMPERIAL HOLIDAY MAGIC
FESTIVE MARKETS, LIGHTS, AND LOCAL TREASURES
A GRAND FINALE IN NUREMBERG
SIGNATURE ENTERTAINMENT
THE VACAYA TOUCH
WHERE EVERYBODY BELONGS
AN UNFORGETTABLE HOLIDAY VALUE IN THE HEART OF EUROPE
VACAYA’s river cruises are intimate by design and rich in experience. They’re welcoming to all, of course, but especially curated for travelers who appreciate culture, beauty, comfort, connection, and a more immersive way to explore the world. And during the holiday season, that magic only deepens. Europe’s Christmas Markets aren’t just places to shop. They’re places to feel. To gather. To celebrate. To slow down and savor.
True value isn’t about spending less. It’s about receiving more. More access. More ease. More meaning. More memories. And that’s exactly what VACAYA’s 2027 Europe Christmas Markets Cruise delivers.
The V Team is committed to bringing you the very best every step of the way. That’s what drives us, trip after trip. And it’s amazing all that’s included:
- Luxury accommodations for 7 Nights aboard Transcend Evolve
- All meals onboard
- Included Alcoholic and Non-Alcoholic Beverages
- Stunning scenic cruising through the heart of Europe in its most magical season
- Access to some of Europe’s most beloved Christmas Market destinations
- The VACAYA Touch
- Your V Team Hosts
- Signature Entertainment
- Themed Cocktail Parties
- Social Activities
Accommodations Include:
- European king or two twin beds
- Spa shower, extended basin sink, and storage drawers
- Open bath design with smart privacy glass (opaque at the touch of a button)
- Separate toilet area with small sink and mirror
- Premium, sustainable bath amenities
- Vanity mirror and spa hair dryer
- Full-width sash window balcony
- Two spacious wardrobes
- Luxury eco-friendly bed linens
- In-room mini-library selection
- In-room safe
- Multiple convenient outlets, converters, and USB/USB-C charging capabilities
- Complimentary, unlimited WiFi (subject to availability)
- Quiet Sleep active sound cancellation system, integrated into the stateroom
- Evening turndown service
- Virtual yoga and fitness classes stream through televisions in staterooms and suites
- Unlimited water, coffees, and teas
- In-room minibar setup upon embarkation
Suite Enhancements:
- Full two-room suite with spacious living room and bedroom with European king or two twin beds
- Two suite entry access points (bedroom and living room)
- Two-person spa shower, dual extended basin sinks and double storage drawers
- Two separate toilet areas with small sink and mirror
- Additional shower and skincare amenities menu
- Four spacious wardrobes
- Pressing available throughout voyage
- Evening turndown service with enhanced service
- Daily canape service (late afternoon)
- Turndown scotch / digestif service on request
- Packing and unpacking service, shoeshine on set days
- Complimentary laundry / pressing service on day of embarkation (garments limited)
The following services are available for an additional charge:
- Shore excursions
- Spa and wellness services
- Salon services
- Laundry
- Medical Services
TRANSCEND EVOLVE
Elegant, modern, and designed for a more immersive style of travel, Transcend Evolve is the perfect home for our European holiday celebration. River cruising offers a completely different rhythm than ocean cruising. It’s more intimate, more connected to the destinations, and more relaxed in all the right ways. You’re never far from the heart of the cities and towns you’ve come to explore, and the views are ever-changing, whether you’re sipping coffee on deck in the morning or watching Europe’s winter landscapes drift by with a warm drink in hand.
For this special journey, Transcend Evolve becomes more than a ship. It becomes our floating boutique hotel, our social hub, our elegant retreat, and our front-row seat to some of Europe’s most enchanting holiday scenery.
Expect stylish spaces to gather with old friends and new, thoughtful comforts throughout, and the ease of unpacking once while some of Europe’s most celebrated Christmas Market destinations come to you.
THE RIVER CRUISE ADVANTAGE
There’s a special kind of magic to river cruising. Instead of docking in industrial ports far from the action, you almost always arrive right where the culture lives. Historic capitals, charming old towns, riverside promenades, hilltop castles, vineyard landscapes, and café-lined squares are all closer, easier, and more immediate. You don’t just visit Europe on a river cruise. You slip right into its soul.
PUBLIC SPACES
PUBLIC SPACES
DINING
DINING
STATEROOMS
STATEROOMS
SPA & WELLNESS
SPA & WELLNESS
STAYING ACTIVE
STAYING ACTIVE
OUR HOLIDAY ADVENTURE, DAY BY DAY
trip highlights
7 Spectacular Nights
Budapest, Hungary to Nuremberg, Germany
Christmas Market magic in Hungary, Slovakia, Austria, and Germany
Scenic sailing through some of Europe’s most beautiful winter landscapes
Intimate luxury aboard Transcend Evolve
VACAYA entertainment, social events, and community
Day 1 – Thu 9 Dec 2027
Budapest, Hungary – Board 2pm / Depart 9pm
Day 2 – Fri 10 Dec 2027
Bratislava, Slovakia – Arrive 3pm / Depart 10pm
Day 3 – Sat 11 Dec 2027
Vienna, Austria – Arrive 6am / Depart 11:59pm
Day 4 – Sun 12 Dec 2027
Durnstein, Austria – Arrive 8am / Depart 12pm
Melk, Austria – Arrive 3:30pm / Depart 6pm
Day 5 – Mon 13 Dec 2027
Passau, Germany – Arrive 2pm / Depart 6pm
Day 6 – Tue 14 Dec 2027
Regensburg, Germany – Arrive 10am / Depart 5pm
Day 7 – Wed 15 Dec 2027
Nuremberg, Germany – Arrive 2pm / Overnight
Day 8 – Thu 16 Dec 2027
Nuremberg, Germany – Disembark by 9am
BUDAPEST, HUNGARY 47°N 19°E
THURSDAY 9 DECEMBER 2027
BOARDING 2PM
DEPART 9PM
Our adventure begins in magnificent Budapest, one of Europe’s most dramatic and unforgettable capitals. Split by the Danube into hilly Buda and lively Pest, the city is beautiful any time of year, but in December it takes on an added glow. Holiday lights shimmer along grand boulevards, festive markets fill the squares, and the city’s stately architecture feels even more magical beneath the winter sky. Settle into Transcend Evolve, meet your fellow Vacayans, and get ready for a week filled with discovery, delight, and holiday wonder. Europe is calling, and it’s all dressed up for Christmas!
BRATISLAVA, SLOVAKIA
ARRIVE 3PM
DEPART 10PM
Bratislava is charming, compact, and full of surprises. Slovakia’s capital sits gracefully along the Danube with a beautifully preserved old town, baroque architecture, welcoming squares, and a hilltop castle watching over it all. During the holiday season, that charm deepens even more. The city’s Christmas Markets bring warmth, sparkle, and a cozy intimacy that feels instantly inviting. Wander cobblestone streets, browse festive stalls, sip something warm, and enjoy the easy beauty of a city that reveals itself one delightful corner at a time. Bratislava may be one of Europe’s lesser-sung capitals, but that’s part of its enduring magic.
VIENNA, AUSTRIA
ARRIVE 6AM
DEPART 11:59PM
Vienna in December is pure holiday fantasy. Grand imperial architecture, elegant cafés, classical music, and timeless style already make this city one of Europe’s great treasures. Add Christmas Markets, twinkling lights, seasonal treats, and the unmistakable romance of the holiday season, and it becomes something truly extraordinary. With nearly a full day here, you’ll have time to soak in the city’s beauty, shop its world-famous markets, admire its festive decorations, and surrender to its old-world glamour. Vienna doesn’t simply celebrate Christmas. It elevates it.
DURNSTEIN, AUSTRIA
ARRIVE 8AM
DEPART 12PM
MELK, AUSTRIA
SUNDAY 12 DECEMBER 2027
ARRIVE 3:30PM
DEPART 6PM
This morning we arrive in Durnstein, one of the jewels of Austria’s Wachau Valley. Small, picturesque, and impossibly charming, it feels like the kind of place that should exist only in snow globes and storybooks. Its narrow lanes, historic buildings, and riverside beauty make it a lovely morning stop on our holiday journey through Europe. Slow down here. Breathe it in. This is the kind of destination that reminds you the season’s real magic is often found in the quietest places.
Later today we continue to Melk, home to one of the most iconic landmarks along the Danube: the magnificent Melk Abbey. Towering above the river, this stunning Benedictine abbey is a masterpiece of baroque architecture and one of the region’s true showstoppers. The town below is charming in its own right, and in the glow of the season it feels all the more atmospheric. History, beauty, and grandeur come together here in a way that feels both timeless and wonderfully festive.
PASSAU, GERMANY
ARRIVE 2PM
DEPART 6PM
Set at the meeting point of three rivers, Passau is one of Bavaria’s most scenic and distinctive cities. Its pastel old town, elegant churches, and winding lanes make it lovely in any season, but in December the holiday spirit brings an extra layer of warmth and charm. This is the kind of place that invites you to stroll slowly, linger a little longer, and enjoy the simple pleasures of the season. A glowing market square, a warm mug in your hand, and your VACAYA community by your side. It doesn’t get much better than that.
REGENSBURG, GERMANY
ARRIVE 10AM
DEPART 5PM
Regensburg is one of Germany’s best-preserved medieval cities, and during Christmastime it feels almost impossibly magical. Cobblestone streets, historic towers, Gothic architecture, and festive market traditions all come together in a setting that feels richly layered with beauty and history. There’s something especially moving about experiencing places like this during the holiday season. The lights feel warmer. The music feels sweeter. The moments feel fuller. Regensburg is exactly the kind of stop that makes a Christmas Market river cruise unforgettable.
NUREMBERG, GERMANY
ARRIVE 2PM
OVERNIGHT
And now, our grand holiday finale: Nuremberg. For many travelers, this is THE Christmas Market destination. Its world-famous Christkindlesmarkt is among the most iconic in Europe, beloved for its festive atmosphere, handcrafted goods, traditional treats, and deep-rooted seasonal charm. Arriving here together, after days spent cruising through the heart of Europe in all its holiday splendor, feels like a perfect climax. This is what the journey has been building toward. One final magical night with our community in one of the season’s most legendary settings.
NUREMBERG, GERMANY
THURSDAY 16 DECEMBER 2027
DISEMBARK BY 9AM
Is it really time to say goodbye already? From grand capitals and charming riverside towns to glowing Christmas Markets and unforgettable moments with your community, this journey through Europe was designed to fill your heart as much as your camera. If your schedule allows, we highly recommend extending your stay in Nuremberg. There is still so much to see, taste, and experience in this extraordinary city, especially during the most magical time of year.
ITINERARY SUBJECT TO CHANGE
While we work tirelessly to craft the perfect itinerary for each trip, it’s always subject to change based on river conditions, port availability, local events, weather, and myriad other factors.
ROOMS & PRICING
When you book online directly with VACAYA, you’ll enjoy 24×7 access to your booking information, no-interest monthly payments, AIRLINE DISCOUNTS, and our BEST RATE GUARANTEE!
SOLO TRAVELERS NOTE
If you’re a Solo Traveler, we offer some great recommendations for finding a roommate HERE.
THE IMPORTANCE OF TRAVEL INSURANCE
As we’ve all learned these past few years, having Travel Insurance is EXTREMELY important. So, with each travel purchase, we strongly encourage you to purchase “Cancel For Any Reason” (or CFAR) travel insurance. If you decline to secure coverage, know that you’re responsible for any cancellation penalties and out-of-pocket expenses incurred because of your inability to travel/choice not to travel. LEARN MORE
FIND THE PERFECT HOME-AWAY-FROM-HOME
You’ve chosen to embark on an immersive journey with VACAYA and Emerald. No matter which of our suites you choose, you’ll enjoy beautifully appointed accommodations.
BOOK EARLY AND SAVE!
Staterooms
Suites
Important Information
PORT & ADMIN FEES
Port taxes and admin fees are 347 USD per person.
PRE-PAID GRATUITIES
Pre-Paid Gratuities are 227 USD per person. 100% of these gratuities go to onboard staffers, including your stateroom attendant, the culinary services staff, the behind-the-scenes hotel services staff, and the myriad department heads who work with their teams around the clock to create a flawless VACAYA experience for you.
SOLO TRAVELERS
ROOM DESCRIPTIONS
Room descriptions, sizing, and view specifics have been provided to us by Transcend and VACAYA is not responsible for incorrect information. Room layouts and views (including obstructions) can vary within the same category.
Be “In The Know” about Obstructions: The standard cruise industry definition of an obstruction or partial obstruction is if the view of the horizon is interrupted when an average height person (170cm or 5’7”) is standing at the balcony’s handrail. If the horizon line is blocked in its entirety, the view is considered fully “obstructed.” If any part of the view of the horizon line is blocked by a lifeboat, overhang, support beam, or any other fixed apparatus (not including moveable cleaning equipment), the view is considered “partially obstructed.” If the horizon line can be viewed in its entirety when standing at the handrail, the view is not considered to be obstructed in any way.
INITIAL DEPOSIT SCHEDULE
- Upon booking outside of 300 Days – 10%.
- At 300 Days (February 12, 2027) – 25%.
- At 240 Days (April 13, 2027) – 50%.
- At 180 Days (June 12, 2027) – 75%.
- At 120 Days (August 11, 2027) – 100%.
CANCELLATION PENALTIES
- Upon booking through 300 Days (February 12, 2027) – 10% of total.
- From 299 (February 13, 2027) to 240 Days (April 13, 2027) – 20% of total.
- From 239 (April 14, 2027) to 180 Days (June 12, 2027) – 40% of total.
- From 179 (June 13, 2027) to 120 Days (August 11, 2027) – 60% of total.
- From 119 (August 12, 2027) to 90 Days (September 10, 2027) – 80% of total.
- From 89 (September 11, 2027) to 0 Days (December 9, 2027) – 100% of total.
ITEMS NOT INCLUDED
- Flights from your home city to Budapest
- Flights from Nuremberg to your home city
- Airport Transfers to/from Transcend Evolve
- Onboard Excursions/Medical/Spa/Salon Services
- Onboard Laundry
- Gift Shop Purchases
TERMS & CONDITIONS
Be sure to read VACAYA’s Terms & Conditions, which include the Payment/Cancellation/Refund Policies for all reservations. Please note that cancellation fees apply from the time of booking.
JOIN WAITLIST
For real-time availability, proceed by clicking BOOK NOW. With ever-shifting inventory, a category that shows availability on this page may no longer be available when you attempt to book. If you need help finding the perfect room in another category or to add your name to our wait list for a sold-out category, feel free to email our V Team Vacation Planners at info@myvacaya.com and we’ll be happy to assist you.
UPGRADES
Don’t see your first choice in room category? Upgrades that become available will be prioritized to guests who’ve already booked their second choice. To jump on our upgrade waitlist, book your second choice and then email your desired category to info@myvacaya.com. Be sure to include your reservation number and full name. We’ll reach out to you if your name reaches the top of the upgrade availability list. Subject to upgrade charges.
PAY IN FULL OPTION
You may pay in full at the time of booking. Unless you later modify your reservation, no further payments will be necessary.
MONTHLY PAYMENT PLAN
Your initial deposit is due at time of booking. Then, your remaining monthly payments will be calculated using the number of months between your booking and the final payment due date. Payments will be charged on the 15th of each month or the last day of each month (determined automatically depending on the day of the month you book). Payments will be charged to your credit card on file. If your credit card details change at any time, simply update the info in our system prior to your next month’s payment date. Please note declined payments are subject to a convenience fee. For more information, explore our Automatic Billing FAQs and our Terms & Conditions.
TRIP INSURANCE: GET IT!
There is one question every traveler across the globe universally faces: should I purchase Travel Insurance? It’s natural to ask yourself, “should I spend the extra dollars to protect my vacation investment?” Or do I leave it in the hands of Lady Luck and hope for the best. At VACAYA, we’ve always believed Trip Insurance is critical to the vacation planning process. That’s why we took special care to integrate the purchase opportunity into our online booking process.
Nothing breaks our heart more than hearing from guests who elect not to purchase insurance, but then something tragic – a death, the loss of a home, etc. – happens and they’re unable to attend the event. As painful as it for us, VACAYA is unable to be your insurance in those moments. And as sad as the stories are, we’re unable to break our Terms & Conditions with you. The reason for that is because to maintain our Seller of Travel licenses and to comply with all regulations, we must administer our Terms & Conditions equitably across all guests. Failure to do so risks VACAYA’s very existence.
We recommend a “Cancel For Any Reason” or CFAR policy for everyone, and for good reason: if you decide you don’t want to travel after the cancellation penalty period has begun, this type of insurance covers you against total loss. It’s also a great way to help honor your Social Contract with VACAYA.
So go ahead and buy that bucket list trip, but protect your health and your investment by purchasing Trip Insurance. ❤️