OVERVIEW

Solos Only

A festive extravaganza celebrating two holidays in truly extraordinary fashion across four countries. 

Cruise the mighty Danube, visiting grand capitals like Vienna and Budapest, along with charming smaller towns that come alive with the spirit of the season. Spend Christmas Eve in Passau and ring in the New Year in Budapest, surrounded by lights, music, and celebration. 

Commemorate a splendid musical heritage as you sing Silent Night in Oberndorf, where the beloved carol was composed. Meet the Count of Castle Clam, spend Christmas Day in Salzburg with a festive lunch at St. Peter’s Abbey, and discover the flavours of Slovakia in Bratislava’s picturesque old town. Enjoy the warmth of traditional hospitality in an Austrian wine village, and let art, music, and culture carry you through four remarkable nations on this enchanting holiday journey. 

✨ Coming Soon! Pre-Cruise Festive Discovery Tour

Make the most of your time in Europe this Christmas including Christmas Market highlights. 

Before you step aboard your Danube Christmas & New Year cruise, you’ll have the chance to join our small private ‘Solos Only’ group journey. 

Starting in Frankfurt and ending in Passau, this pre-cruise experience unfolds through some of Germany’s most atmospheric cities and towns. Along the way, discover a beautiful blend of festive traditions, history, culture, and local flavours. 

Enjoy a three-night stay in Nuremberg, perfectly placed for visits to Würzburg and the fairytale town of Rothenburg ob der Tauber. Continue on to Innsbruck for a spectacular Alps experience, where snow-covered peaks frame the skyline and you can enjoy an authentic Austrian fondue experience. Then round out your journey with time in Munich, taking in the final festive spirit before embarking on your river cruise in Passau. 

It’s a journey filled with contrast and discovery; grand cities, storybook villages, and alpine scenery at its best. 

Coming soon! The perfect way to begin your European Christmas celebration.

 

 

 

 

 

PACKAGE DETAILS
  • Ages:
    45+
  • Duration:
    11 Days
  • Status:
    Early preview
  • Region:
    EuropeUK
  • Destinations:
    Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary
  • Travel Style:
    On The Water, Discovery
  • Accommodation:
    Boat cabins,Quality hotels
  • Prices from:
    AUD$14899
  • Transport:
    Private coach, Cruise
  • Pace:
    1
  • Max Group Size:
    26
REVIEWS

'I would highly recommend a holiday with Encounter Travel. My trip was well organised and the co-ordinator was fun and helpful and full of energy. I met some great people of all walks of life. There is a good mix of organised activities and free time. I had a blast.'

Linda, Victoria

'Thank you for your organisation of a great holiday. As a first time traveller with Encounter, I didn't know what to expect. The Red Centre is indescribably beautiful and should be on every Australians' bucket list. We saw every sensational attraction in just the right order - each new experience was more incredible than the last. Thank you for recruiting such a great group of people for my travelling companions. The hotels were clean and very comfortable and it was a pleasure to be transported across such an amazing landscape so comfortably. I learnt so much about our wonderful country and wished I had done such a trip years earlier.'

Sarah, 52 years, Sydney, Australia
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INCLUSIONS

Dining

  • All meals onboard, prepared with the finest and freshest ingredients
  • 10 breakfasts, 9 lunches, and 10 dinners
  • Captain’s Welcome and Farewell Receptions
  • Welcome and Farewell Gala Dinners
  • Unlimited beverages onboard, including fine wines, beer, spirits, specialty coffee and tea, soft drinks, and mineral water 

Excursions

  • 8 days of immersive excursions hosted by English-speaking local experts
  • State-of-the-art Quietvox audio system on all tours
  • Use of Nordic walking sticks available on selected outings 

Accommodation

  • 10-night river cruise aboard the stately S.S. Maria Theresa
  • Lavishly appointed riverview staterooms and suites featuring handcrafted Savoir® Beds of England
  • Fine linens, Egyptian cotton sheets, European duvets, and pillow menu
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout the ship 

Experiences

  • Visit 4 countries: Austria, Germany, Hungary, and Slovakia
  • Explore 4 UNESCO World Heritage sites
  • Services of an experienced Uniworld Cruise Manager
  • Gratuities for all onboard staff included
  • Cultural enrichment and captivating onboard entertainment throughout

Not included: 

  • Airfares (unless requested)
  • Airport transfers
  • Travel insurance
  • Excess baggage
  • Visa fees if applicable
  • Any tips or porterage at airports, hotels, drivers & local staff
  • Meals and beverages not specified on itinerary
  • Items of a personal nature such as laundry & medical expenses
  • Incidental expenses such as taxi fares, telecommunications

 

Itinerary

Cruising with Uniworld

Surrounded by the ambiance of an elegant, destination-inspired ship and embraced by their passionate staff, you’ll notice the Uniworld difference immediately. This is what the absolute best in luxury river cruising feels like. Where every expectation is exceeded, every destination is uniquely experienced, and every instance of delight is quickly followed by another inspiring moment. 

Inclusive Cruising; from free-flowing fine wines and liquors to delicious cuisine and daily included experiences.

A Boutique Hotel Experience on the Water; inspired by their destinations, each ship in the fleet has a uniquely beautiful design.

Curated Experiences; Uniworld goes the extra mile to craft immersive and memorable onshore excursions, with a variety of activities that speak to the diverse interests of our guests.

Culinary Excellence; fresh local ingredients and a masterful culinary team come together to create an incredible dining experience that brings the flavours of your destinations onboard.

River Heritage Club; travel with Uniworld once, and you are welcomed into our River Heritage Club loyalty program. Members receive exclusive perks and savings

 

FEATURES EXCURSIONS
Featured Excursions do not require booking.

Excursions that are listed as "Choose between..." must be booked onboard however there is no additional cost.

Please refer to the excursion details below to view purchasing options for The Masterpiece Collection excursions where applicable. 

Note: The itinerary presented is subject to modification due to water levels, closures because of public holidays or other uncontrollable factors. Every effort will be made to operate programs as planned, but changes may still be necessary throughout the cruise. This day-to-day schedule is subject to change. Your final day-to-day schedule will be provided onboard on the first day of your cruise. 

 

 

DAY 1
Passau (Embark) 

Arrive at Munich Airport. If your cruise package includes a group arrival transfer, or if you have purchased a private transfer, you will be greeted by a Uniworld representative and transferred to the ship docked in Passau.

Meals: Dinner 

DAY 2
Passau

Old-town Passau is built on a narrow peninsula at the confluence of the Danube, Inn, and Ilz rivers. Once a Roman settlement, it remains a charming and historic city of spires, squares, and cobbled lanes. Join a local expert for a guided walking tour of the highlights, including the fortress above the river and St. Stephen’s Cathedral.

A special Captain’s Welcome Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you this evening.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

DAY 3
Linz (Salzburg)

Your ship docks in Linz today. From there, travel to the alpine city of Salzburg for a full-day excursion. Mozart’s birthplace sparkles in its winter setting, and fans of The Sound of Music will recognise many filming locations. Walk with your guide through Mirabell Gardens and Salzburg’s Old Town, visiting its cathedral and festive Christmas Market.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

DAY 4
Grein

Enjoy a guided walk through charming Grein, with its handsome 16th- and 17th-century houses and its strong connection to Danube river shipping. Visit Austria’s oldest theatre before continuing to Burg Clam, home to the Counts of Clam for more than 500 years. The Count will personally welcome you for a tour of his family’s historic castle.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

DAY 5
Melk, Cruising The Wachau Valley, Dürnstein

Visit the magnificent Melk Abbey, a Benedictine monastery with an ornate library and sweeping Danube views. Cruise through the Wachau Valley, one of Austria’s most scenic regions, and arrive in the small village of Dürnstein. Here, enjoy a stroll through the town, taste spiced wine, and attend an organ concert in a local monastery.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

DAY 6
Vienna

Vienna is renowned for its imperial grandeur, music, and fine art. Experience the city with your choice of tours — from the Vienna Art History Museum’s private early-opening session to a highlights tour along the Ringstrasse or a walking tour of Vienna’s historic cafés and delicacies. In the evening, enjoy a concert of Mozart and Strauss at a 12th-century monastery.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

DAY 7  
Vienna 

A full day of free time to explore Vienna at your own pace. Perhaps visit one of its famous coffeehouses, stroll through festive streets, or take in the grandeur of the Schönbrunn Palace.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

DAY 8
Bratislava

Discover Bratislava, the small but lively capital of Slovakia. Join a local guide for a walking tour through its charming old town and Christmas Market, where a few festive stalls remain open. Explore local traditions and sample seasonal delicacies.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

DAY 9
Budapest

Welcome to Budapest, where the Danube divides the two historic halves of the city. Choose between a panoramic coach tour, including St. Stephen’s Cathedral, or a walking tour that explores the local market halls and Christmas Market. Celebrate New Year’s Eve on board with a gala dinner and live music.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

DAY 10
Budapest

Spend New Year’s Day visiting Szentendre, a picturesque artists’ village near Budapest known for its craftspeople, museums, and marzipan shop. Return to the ship for the Captain’s Farewell Reception and Dinner.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner 

DAY 11
Budapest (Disembark)

Disembark after breakfast. Transfers are provided to Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport for your onward flight.

Meals: Breakfast 

Itineraries may be subject to change, due to circumstances outside of our control. If there is any itinerary change prior to departure of significance we aim to inform you prior to travel.  Itinerary changes while on tour will be informed by your tour leader/guide while on tour.

View Full Itinerary

ACCOMMODATION

  

CRUISE
S.S Maria Theresa, Uniworld Boutique River Cruises

"Regal in its opulent 18th-century decor, a floating homage to the former Austrian empress. Besides indulgent dining and an elegant atmosphere, this is one of the prettiest ships out there."
— Cruise Critic Editors. 

Named for the great Habsburg ruler Maria Theresa, one of Europe’s most beloved monarchs, the S.S. Maria Theresa features ultra-luxurious accommodations and a wealth of thoughtful touches. Named Best New River Ship by Cruise Critic editors in her maiden season, this Super Ship offers an unforgettable voyage along the Danube and Main Rivers.

Staterooms and suites on the Hofburg Deck feature enclosed balconies with floor-to-ceiling windows, which can be raised at the touch of a button to create a conservatory. Suites also provide triple-occupancy options.

Encounter Travel Christmas Cruise 2026

Deluxe Balcony

Encounter Travel Christmas Cruise 2026

French Balcony Floor Plan

Encounter Travel Christmas Cruise 2026

Deluxe Balcony Floor Plan

Encounter Travel Christmas Cruise 2026

French Balcony

CABINS

Classic Stateroom

  • Lavishly appointed riverview stateroom (162 sq ft / 15 sq m)
  • Handcrafted Savoir® Beds of England
  • Built-in closet, hair dryer, safe, individual thermostat
  • Flat-screen TV with infotainment center and satellite
  • Marble bathroom with Asprey bath and body products
  • Plush towels, towel warmer, bathrobes, slippers, heated mirror, and backlit magnifying mirror
  • Note: Windows are positioned at the water line  

French Balcony Stateroom

  • Lavishly appointed riverview stateroom (194 sq ft / 18 sq m) with French balcony
  • Handcrafted Savoir® Beds of England
  • Built-in closet, hair dryer, safe, individual thermostat
  • Flat-screen TV with infotainment center and satellite
  • Marble bathroom with Asprey bath and body products
  • Plush towels, towel warmer, bathrobes, slippers, heated mirror, and backlit magnifying mirror


More About Accommodation

PRICES

 

Inclusions: 

GETTING THERE

Starts In: Passau, Germany
Ends In: Budapest, Hungary

Hotel Check In/Out Times
Consider the hotel check in time on arrival and the hotel check out time on departure. If you arrive prior to the check in time, the hotel will store your luggage until the check in time and can also store your luggage until you are ready to depart for your onward journey.  

Hotel check in:  from 3PM
Hotel check out: by 12 midday 

Always check your destination country for their Customs policies for prohibited or restricted items. Products or legal medications in your country may not always be permitted in other countries.

FLIGHT INFORMATION
As an Australian travel company we can provide flight assistance for flights originating from Australia. If joining the tour from outside Australia, we recommend making your own flight arrangements or to use the service of a travel advisor located within your country of residence for access to best fares. 

VISA/ENTRY INFORMATION
See 'VISA/ENTRY' information in our MORE INFORMATION section below.

DETAILS

TRIP AVAILABILITY
Bookings close: 23 February 20256


Read on for other key trip information that you should know before you decide on joining the group.

If this trip seems right for you then we encourage you to book early and secure your place with a deposit.  Tour space is limited. Also, many services on this tour must be booked well in advance. To ensure your place, please check trip availability at your earliest convenience 

FELLOW TRAVELLERS 
You will enjoy this group experience with a likely maximum of 26 travellers. This is a ‘Solos Only’ tour (couple free). You are welcome to join with a friend, but couples do not join our group. 

SOLOS MIX
Our group is only for solo travellers however, there’s a mix of travellers onboard, solo travellers and couples travelling together – this is our SOLOS MIX offer.  From our ‘know-how’ these are trips popular with solo travellers.

THE PACE  [1 out of 5]
Travellers of 75 years or over may be required to return a Fit to Travel form that is completed by their doctor. 

More Information > Visit Travel Fitness 

GROUP ARRANGEMENTS
Best suited to independent solo travellers. An Encounter Travel host will escort the group. The group host will assist with evening pre dinner meet ups on board and arranging group tables for dining each evening on the ship. 

TRAVELLER REVIEWS

'I would highly recommend a holiday with Encounter Travel. My trip was well organised and the co-ordinator was fun and helpful and full of energy. I met some great people of all walks of life. There is a good mix of organised activities and free time. I had a blast.'

Linda, Victoria

'Thank you for your organisation of a great holiday. As a first time traveller with Encounter, I didn't know what to expect. The Red Centre is indescribably beautiful and should be on every Australians' bucket list. We saw every sensational attraction in just the right order - each new experience was more incredible than the last. Thank you for recruiting such a great group of people for my travelling companions. The hotels were clean and very comfortable and it was a pleasure to be transported across such an amazing landscape so comfortably. I learnt so much about our wonderful country and wished I had done such a trip years earlier.'

Sarah, 52 years, Sydney, Australia

'Did a Red Centre solo 7 day tour absolutely fantastic, Uluru and Kata Tjuta (the Olgas), Kings Canyon, Palm Valley you have to see it and experience it. The coach drivers were professional, excellent knowledge and with a great sense of humor.'

David, Eschol Park, Sydne, New South Wales
Since 2006
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Travel solo, not alone when you join one of our small group tours. Share your journey, without the drawbacks of big coach tours or the solitude of being alone.©
Age-Matched Tours
From our traveller feedback we know that our age-matched holidays are one of the main reasons that solo travellers choose to join us. All our 'Solos Only ' tours are age-matched, making for a better chance that you'll be travelling other like minded single travellers. ©