Christmas Markets
The Christmas Markets in Europe typically open the last week of November and close on Christmas Eve. The tradition began in the Middle Ages in Central Europe, what is now Germany, eastern France and Austria, and now there are markets in many European countries. There is usually a Christmas tree, a nativity scene and many booths selling traditional regional toys and foods, and also beer and glühwein or vin chaud (hot mulled wine). Some famous markets are in Nuremberg, Cologne, Frankfurt, Strasbourg (France) and Rothenberg. As many as 3 million people will visit each one every year.
6-Night Danube River Cruise
Carving its way through ten European countries, the Danube is the perfect waterway to take in the area 's best landscapes, charming vistas, and riverside castles. With a 6-night cruise, make your way through Germany and Austria.
Vienna
This is the capital city of Austria, located on the Danube, with a population of over 2 million in the metro area. It is known as the “City of Music” because of the numerous famous composers who have lived and worked here, such as Mozart, Haydn, Beethoven and Brahms, and also as the “City of Dreams” as it was home to Sigmund Freud. Some of its primary sights are Schonbrunn Palace, Hofburg Palace, Opera House, Belvedere and St. Stephen 's Cathedral. Vienna is also known for its coffee houses and restaurants.
Würzburg
This city of 125,000 is on the Main River, and traces of its history as a Bronze Age, Celtic and Frankish city can be found still. It was the site of one of the world 's largest witch trials in the 17th century with as many as 900 people executed. On one day in March 1945, 90% of the city was destroyed by British bombers and the firestorm which resulted. Now the city is an important administrative center and center of the local white wine industry.
Rothenburg
A town located in the Franconia region of Bavaria, Germany, Rothenburg is known as a well-preserved and picturesque medieval old town, a popular destination for tourists from around the world. It was a Free Imperial City from the late Middle Ages to 1803. Rothenburg is also part of the popular “Romantic Road” through southern Germany. Rothenburg, which translates to Red Fortress (or burgh, a medieval fortified settlement), refers to the red color of the roofs of the houses which overlook the river. The name may also refer to the process of retting (“rotten” in German) flax for linen production. In October of 1631, during the Thirty Year 's War, Johann Tserclaes wanted to quarter his troops in Rothenburg, but rather than allowing them entrance, the town defended its self, but was quickly defeated. After the winter, Tserclaes and his troops left the town poor and nearly empty. The townsfolk remaining in Rothenburg were stricken and killed by the Black Death in 1634. Without money and power, Rothenburg stopped growing, which is why the town was able to preserve its 17th century state. While buildings within the walled city reflect the city 's medieval history, some parts of the town are more modern in concession to the tourist trade.
Nuremberg
Nuremberg has a population of 500,000 within the city itself and as many as 3.5 million in the metro area, and may be best known as the site of the Nazi war trials after WWII. It is located in Bavaria on the Rhine-Main-Danube Canal and the Pegnitz River, and has always been a strategic site. Its most important attractions are the Imperial Castle, the city walls, artist Albrecht Durer 's House and in winter, the oldest Christmas Market in Germany. It is an industrial center, with companies such as Siemens and MAN, and is also known for traditional products such as gingerbread and pocket watches called “Nuremberg Eggs”.
Regensburg
This is a city at the confluence of the Danube and Regen Rivers in Bavaria, and its medieval center is a UNESCO World Heritage site. It dates from the Stone Age, and the Romans were here in the 1st century. Its 12th-century Stone Bridge over the Danube opened up important trade routes between medieval Europe and Venice, and helped it become an economic center. Other attractions are St. Peter 's Cathedral and the Old Town Hall.
Passau
Passau is in Lower Bavaria near the Austrian border, and is known as the “City of Three Rivers” because the Inn and Ilz Rivers join the Danube there. It dates from the Stone Age, and became an important religious center in the 8th century. Its major attractions include St. Stephan 's Cathedral, with the world 's largest organ, and the Bishop 's Castle. Passau was famous for manufacturing swords and other weapons during the Renaissance.
Wachau Valley
This Danube valley is 25 miles long and runs from Melk to Krems in Lower Austria, and is a UNESCO site. The valley has been inhabited since prehistoric times, and is a famous wine region. There are no bridges across the Danube in the valley, so ferries are the only way to cross. The town of Durnstein in Wachau Valley was where King Richard Lionheart was held captive by Duke Leopold.
Glühwein Party
Glüwhein is the traditional hot drink served during the winter period, especially around Christmas and Halloween in Europe and can be normally found at Christmas markets. Mulled wine is a beverage usually made with red wine, normally port and claret, along with various mulling spices, including cinnamon and raisins. Wine was first recorded as spiced and heated in Rome during the 2nd century. The Romans travelled across Europe, conquering much of it, bringing wine and viticulture with them up to the Rhine and Danube rivers. Guests will have a chance to taste this delectable beverage as part of an excursion in the Wachau Valley.
On a boat cruise along the Danube, explore charming Christmas markets and see Europe dressed in its holiday best. Discover Würzburg, a Bavarian city famous for its old town and Baroque architecture. Explore Nuremburg, home to one of the oldest and largest Christmas markets in the world. Float through the Wachau Valley, dotted with castles and hillside houses. Visit the 900-year-old Benedictine Melk Abbey, one of Europe 's largest Baroque monasteries. Enjoy a Glühwein party - a German holiday gathering with mulled wine. Join a local expert and explore historic Vienna. Relax as you are transported to beloved riverside towns and delve into local holiday traditions.
