Magnificent Christmas Time: Passau to Budapest

Embark on the Crystal Mahler at the port of Passau and start your Christmas time adventure.

At the confluence of the Danube, Inn and Ilz rivers, Passau is also situated at a meeting of cultures. The town began as a Roman settlement, enjoying the rising tide of influence as the largest bishopric in the Holy Roman Empire and enduringly vibrant as a hub for various trade pursuits, including salt, swords, and ideas. Wander the cobbled streets of Old Town, gaze upon arched bridges and Italianate manses and visit magnificent St. Stephen’s Cathedral and New Bishop’s Residence.

Named the European Capital of Culture in 2009 and added to the roster of UNESCO Creative Cities as a City of Media Arts in 2014, Linz embraces the present and future, with reverence to its past. The city’s layout reflects its history, with an ancient medieval center encircled by neoclassical, neo-baroque and neo-Renaissance neighborhoods.

Once the capital of the Austro-Hungarian Empire and forever known for its manicured gardens, ornate architecture - especially that of the famed Ringstrasse - and distinguished roster of composers who either were born or lived here, Vienna finds itself at the very center of European culture, even as it sits near the border of the Czech Republic, Slovakia, and Hungary.

Enjoy a scenic cruise to Budapest.

Commanding both sides of the Danube – with the Chain Bridge connecting hilly Buda with flat Pest – Hungary’s capital enchants with its magnificent architecture of domes and spires, 18th-century homes, bridges, and lampposts. The UNESCO-listed Castle Hill welcomes all to explore Buda Castle, Trinity Square, Matthias Church, and Fisherman's Bastion.

Enjoy your breakfast aboard the Crystal Mahler and finally disembark at Budapest for your continued journey homewards.