Danube Christmas Markets with Jann Arden
Celebrity Hosted Europe River Cruise
Experience the Christmas markets along the Danube on a truly all-inclusive journey with your host, Jann Arden.
In the heart of Europe’s grand waterways region, immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere of the Christmas markets, which have brought festive charm to the banks of the Danube for centuries. Delight in the magic of this region as you spend seven nights cruising the majestic Danube from Budapest to Regensburg while enjoying all-inclusive luxury on your Scenic Space-Ship. Explore the architectural treasure trove of Budapest, stroll through the charming streets of Vienna, and experience the medieval town of Regensburg – all infused with the customs and traditions of the region during this festive period. Guests on this cruise will enjoy exclusive opportunities to interact with their host Jann Arden including: an evening welcome reception; a Q&A session and photo opportunity; and an exclusive evening performance by Jann Arden where she will perform Christmas songs and some of her greatest hits, with her band in a unique and unforgettable venue.
Pricing Starting from $6,495 CAD per person based on double occupancy
Economy Flights from $295 per person
Limited Time Offer
Fly for $295 per person OR Save $1,500 per person*
Book your trip by December 12, 2024, to enjoy this exclusive deal. Terms and conditions apply, click HERE to view details.
WHAT’S INCLUDED?
- Soak up the festive atmosphere in Europe during visits to the Christmas Markets along the Danube River
- 5-Star Scenic Space-Ships with up to 163 guests
- Over a glass of Austrian ‘sekt’ at the majestic Palais Liechtenstein, enjoy a private classical Viennese concert
- Your choice of spacious Standard Suite, or a Balcony Suite with an innovative Scenic Sun Lounge
- Taste the regional specialties of the Wachau Valley with a local producer on board your Scenic Space-Ship
- 1 Scenic Enrich experience with an enchanting private classical evening concert at Palais Liechtenstein – Exclusive to Scenic
- See the iconic sites of Budapest come alive with festive cheer during a sightseeing tour including Buda Hill, the Parliament Building and Heroes Square
- Personalise your trip with 14 included Scenic Freechoice activities
- Tailor your journey with a variety of Scenic Freechoice including Active, Your way excursions, Moments, Masters & Music activities and Interactive Encounters
- Enjoy a choice of up to five on board dining experiences, from casual to fine dining
- 20 meals – 7 breakfasts (B), 6 lunches (L) and 7 dinners (D)
- Complimentary premium beverages all day, every day* – not just at meal times
- Butler service for every suite
- Complimentary full mini-bar restocked daily
- Innovative Salt Therapy Lounge and fitness area
- The freedom of our e-bikes – electrically assisted bicycles
- Scenic Cruise Director to guide and assist & expert local guides
- Complimentary Wi-Fi throughout your cruise
- Return airport transfers^
- All tipping and gratuities on board and on shore
CRUISE DETAILS
Nov 29 – Dec 6, 2025 | 8 Day Cruise | Budapest to Regensburg
Set sail on November 29, 2025, for an unforgettable eight-day Danube Christmas Markets with Jann Arden cruise aboard the luxurious Scenic Jasper, departing from the enchanting city of Budapest. Embrace the spirit of the season as you explore the captivating Christmas markets in Budapest, Bratislava, Vienna, and Passau, all while indulging in a truly all-inclusive, ultra-luxury cruise experience.
Day 01
Budapest (D)
Your journey begins in the vibrant city of Budapest, the capital of Hungary and one of Europe’s oldest and prettiest cities.
This afternoon, board your all-inclusive luxury Scenic Space-Ship and settle into your suite where you will unpack once. Balcony suites have windows that convert into a Scenic Sun Lounge, allowing you fresh air and uninterrupted views of ever-changing landscapes and life along the riverbanks. Relax and raise your glass to the days ahead at this evening’s welcome reception where our award-winning host Jann Arden will be introduced.
Please book your flight to arrive into Budapest prior to 05:00 PM.
Day 02
Budapest (B,L,D)
Divided by the Danube, with Buda on one side and Pest on the other, this city became united in 1873, when a newly built bridge connected the two. The city is an architectural treasure trove comprising styles from Gothic to Art Nouveau and everything in between. At Christmas time, it comes alive with twinkling lights strewn around the city, wooden huts popping up in magnificent locations and seductive scents filling the air with festive spices.
Freechoice:
A range of Scenic Freechoice activities are on offer to choose from this morning:
• Budapest in Depth: Explore this magical city by coach. Visit both Buda and Pest, the two districts that are separated by the Danube that make up the city. Starting on the Buda side see the Várkert Bazár before crossing the Margaret Bridge to the Pest side where you will see Széchenyi square and Elizabeth square. After your tour you will have ample free time to explore the Christmas Markets of the city. Walk through the stalls that flank St Stephens Basilica and delight in the festive atmosphere with the sights and scents of the markets on full display.
• Guided hike to Buda Hill: Strap on your walking shoes for a beautiful hike up to the World Heritage-listed site of Buda Hill. On your walk, see Varket Bazar and beautifully landscaped gardens, all while enjoying great views over the Danube River and the city architecture.
• Your Scenic Space-Ship departs for Bratislava after dinner so make the most of your free time in this magical city.
Day 03
Bratislava (B,L,D)
Slovakia’s capital since independence in 1993, Bratislava is a modern multicultural metropolis with an intriguing history. Its Old Town is glorious in medieval and Gothic architecture and its well-preserved hilltop castle, which has history dating back to the 9th century, still dominates the town. These charming historic sites contrast with its brutalist socialist architecture, which is evident around the city.
Freechoice: As we dock in the city centre, this afternoon’s Scenic Freechoice excursions are just steps away:
• Walking tour of Bratislava: Explore Bratislava with a knowledgeable local guide to see all the highlights of the city such as the Hlavné Námestie, the main square and the Old Town Hall while learning about the history of the city including what everyday life was like under the Iron Curtain era, the political boundary that divided Europe after WWII.
• Wines of Slovakia: Slovakian’s Wines are quite young but, all over the world, wine experts are starting to praise their flavour and quality. After the fall of Communism, new viticulturers were born on the Banks of the Danube and all over this country, taking advantages of the cold weather and optimal soils. Embark on a journey through the different regions of Slovakia while tasting various wines in one of Bratislava’s cellars.
After your included Scenic Freechoice activity, you have the option to spend the rest of the afternoon wandering through the festive atmosphere of the city. The Hlavné Námestie or Main Square, comes alive with the sights, scents and sounds of Christmas. Twinkling lights surround charming wooden stalls brimming with regional handicrafts and gifts, the delightful smell of roasted chestnuts permeate the air and enthusiastic carolers grace the square adding to the incredible ambiance of the Christmas markets.
In the afternoon, Jann Arden will host a Q&A session followed by a photo opportunity with her. (Day of session is subject to change)
Day 04
Vienna (B,L,D)
This morning we arrive in Vienna, Austria’s imperial capital.
A city full of grandeur, Vienna comes alive during the festive season. A visit to the Austrian imperial capital during this time of the year will create some unique, magical moments.
See the world’s most beautiful boulevard, The Ringstrasse, lit up with dazzling displays of Christmas lights and decorations. You’ll also enjoy the city’s musical heritage in full display with the sounds of famous festive tunes and classical pieces around every corner. After all, you’re in the City of Music, which fostered musical geniuses like Mozart and Beethoven.
Freechoice:
• A Schonbrunn Palace: Explore Schönbrunn Palace, the former summer residence of the Habsburg family, one of the most prominent dynasties in European history. As you wander its countless ornately designed rooms, hear tales about the royal family that lived here and see the impressive gardens. After your guided tour, you will have the opportunity to visit the Christmas Markets that are held annually at the palace. Take the chance to delight in the festive culinary offerings or look around for the many stalls offering traditional and homemade gifts.
• Cycle to Danube Island: Explore a different side of Vienna on a guided e-bike tour to Danube Island, a recreational playground where locals come to enjoy bathing, boating, cycling and relaxing on its beaches and open spaces.
• 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, complemented by the work of international artists such as Claude Monet, Vincent van Gogh, and Max Beckmann.
This afternoon is free to wander around Vienna, so perhaps join one of the provided shuttles to the city centre and make the most of your time strolling through the many Christmas markets or simply relax on board your Scenic Space-Ship.
Enrich Tonight’s Scenic Enrich: Exclusive for Jann Arden Guests at Palais Liechtenstein: Enjoy a Christmas concert performance by multi-platinum award-winning artist Jann Arden. (Night of performance is subject to change).
Day 05
Dürnstein > Melk (B,L,D)
Your Scenic Space-Ship will dock early this morning in the quaint town of Dürnstein. Surrounded by vineyards, the city has historical buildings that date back to the 12th century, including the hilltop ruins of Dürnstein Castle, where Richard the Lionheart was famously imprisoned between 1192 and 1193. Enjoy some free time exploring this captivating town before cruising towards Melk.
Freechoice:
Choose from a variety of Scenic Freechoice excursions today:
• E-biking from Durnstein to Melk: Embark on a 32km guided e-bike ride to soak up the scenery along the Danube as you cycle to the quaint village of Melk, located in Austria’s scenic Wachau Valley. You’ll be impressed by the breathtaking UNESCO-listed Benedictine Abbey, built high over the city, the most spectacular building in the region. This tour will pass by many small villages and beautiful rolling vineyards, stopping along the way to enjoy the river views.
• Glorious Melk Abbey: Your visit to Melk will only be complete with a guided tour to the magnificent 18th century Benedictine Abbey. Wander its 900-year-old hallowed halls, visit the decorated Marble Hall and the library, which is filled with more than 80,000 books, and be awed by the Abbey Church, which is adorned in frescoes and intricate statues.
While you indulge in the spectacular views this afternoon, it’s also the perfect opportunity to indulge in some delicious local produce from the Wachau Valley. 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 some Apricot dumplings and local schnapps among other delights in this breath-taking location.
As you sit down to a delicious dinner, your Scenic Space-Ship will set sail towards your next destination.
Day 06
Brandstatt > Passau (B,L,D)
Unofficially named Hunga Tonga Hunga Ha’apai, the world’s newest island emerged between two existing islands in December 2014 after a submarine volcano erupted, spewing steam, ash, and rocks into the air. After the ash settled, it mixed with seawater and solidifies, giving birth to this remarkable new landmass.
Freechoice:
Today, choose from three completely different, yet equally fascinating Scenic Freechoice excursions:
• Full day excursion to Salzburg: This morning you will disembark your Scenic Space-Ship in Brandstatt, from where you will journey via coach to Salzburg, Austria. Surrounded by alpine peaks and on the banks of the Salzach River, Salzburg is best known as the home of Mozart and The Sound of Music. This storybook city has a thriving art scene, music and concert halls filled with classical music, a Baroque old town where you’ll find Mozart’s birthplace, and Hohensalzburg, Central Europe’s largest intact fortress, which sits high above the rooftops with panoramic views of the city. During a guided tour, explore this incredible city before enjoying lunch at a local restaurant. After some free time to explore the thriving Christmas markets that grace the city – some of the oldest advent markets in the world -, you will return to your Scenic Space-Ship in the town of Passau.
• Full day excursion to Cesky Krumlov: From Brandstatt, journey via coach to the Czech town of Cesky Krumlov. This delightful UNESCO World Heritage town is brimming with charm. Sitting on the banks of the Vltava River, Cesky Krumlov is considered one of the best-preserved medieval towns in Europe with its vast array of well-preserved Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque architecture. Wander this fairy-tale location with your local guide and explore the historic centre before delighting in a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. Your local guide will be on hand to offer expertise on the best way to spend your free time, such as at the Christmas Markets in the Old Town square. This afternoon you will return to your Scenic Space-Ship in the town of Passau.
• Highlights of Passau: Join your local guide on a walking tour, admiring the brightly coloured buildings that line the waterways. Visit St. Stephens Cathedral: originally built in the year 450, the church proudly stood in Passau’s Old Town until a devastating fire ripped through it in 1662. It was rebuilt in its current form with an Italian-style exterior complete with a Baroque stucco interior, and nowadays houses the world’s largest Catholic church organ, which boasts 17,974 pipes and 233 registers.
Day 07
Regensburg (B,L,D)
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 listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites. Within its narrow laneways, the city lays claim to having the highest concentration of bars in the country.
Set on the confluence of three rivers in Bavaria, Regensburg is a delight to explore on a walking tour. 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.
Day 08
Regensburg > Munich (B)
After a hearty breakfast, you’ll be transferred to Munich Airport for your onward or homebound flight, taking a lifetime of wonderful memories with you.
Please book your flight to depart out of Munich after 02:00 PM.
This itinerary is a guide only and may be amended for operational reasons such as high and low water. As such, the cruise may operate altered from that stated above. Please refer to our terms and conditions.
Looking for a longer getaway? Join Scenic for their pre-cruise tour in Prague and post-cruise tour in Nuremberg!
ABOUT JANN ARDEN
Jann Arden is a multi-platinum, award-winning singer, songwriter, actor and author. In 2020, she was announced as an inductee into the Canadian Music Hall of Fame joining the ranks of Canadian musicians including Alanis Morissette, Bryan Adams, Barenaked Ladies, Shania Twain and many more. Whether she is captivating audiences with her heartfelt music, entertaining them with her quick wit or sharing her written word in a boldly honest voice – Arden is a Canadian original – a brilliant multidimensional talent.
PRICING & STATEROOMS
For exact pricing and availability please call Erin at 905-433-8611 or email – [email protected]
Pricing Starting from $6,495 CAD per person based on double occupancy
Economy Flights from $295 per person
REQUEST A CABIN
Jann Arden Cruises are extremely limited. If you would like to secure your space, please fill out the form with your contact info and one of our agents will reach out to confirm your space and take deposit!
*Terms and conditions:
New bookings only. No retroactivity. Book on Jann Arden Hosted Cruise (XNBU291125.2) and Save $500pp. No cash value. Combinable with Travel Showcase, Travel/Trade/Partner Events, Exclusive Agency Perks, On Board Future Cruise Sales, Purchased On Board Future Travel Vouchers (max 2 per booking), and Loyalty Vouchers only. NOT Combinable with Best Available Offer, Military Discounts, Solo Offers, Distressed/SGSF/2 for 1, Interline/Trade, F&F, or any other special/restricted offers. All offers are inventory controlled and may be extended, cancelled or withdrawn at any time without notice. Scenic reserves the right to correct errors or omissions and to change any and all fares and promotions at any time.
*All offers are inventory controlled, strictly limited on selected suite types on set departures, subject to availability until sold out, and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Valid for new bookings only. Best Available offer is not combinable with Flexi Fare offer. Offers applicable to Future Travel Credit (FTC) bookings. FTC holders with airline credit, please contact Scenic.
Bonus Savings of $500 per person: Applicable on select journeys and departures. Book by November 7, 2024. A non-refundable deposit of $500 per person is due at the time of booking. Groups: Offer applies to new groups booked and deposited during the promotional period. No retroactivity.
Complimentary 3 night Prague Extension is applicable to Gems of the Danube, and you must book journey code PNB to receive this offer.
Best Available offer is for new bookings only and available for bookings using a Future Travel Credit (FTC) Voucher that do not have an air credit issued against them. Full payment is due 10 months prior to departure for Best Available offers to apply. For cruises booked within 10 months of departure, full payment is required at time of booking. Once sold out or if full payment is not received the standard Flexi Fare offer or best available offer will apply. Special airfare offer, available on select departures. A non-refundable deposit of $500 per person is due within 2 days of booking with full payment required 10 months prior to departure. Scenic reserves the right to ticket the airfare upon receipt of deposit. Flights promotion is valid from 11 gateways across Canada towards the international Economy Class airfare to Europe. This flight promotion is valid on specific classes of service with scheduled airlines of Scenic’s choice. Total ticket cost, including taxes, not to exceed $1,800 per person. Tax and ticket surcharges may apply. Included gateways: YHZ Halifax; YYZ Toronto; YOW Ottawa; YUL Montreal; YQR Regina; YXE Saskatoon; YWG Winnipeg; YEG Edmonton; YYC Calgary; YVR Vancouver; and YYJ Victoria. Flights from other Canadian airports will incur surcharges. Flights must be booked by Scenic and are based on the brochure tour dates. Any requests outside of the tour dates may incur seasonal surcharges. Flights must be booked within 11-6 months to departure. If not booked during this time, Scenic reserves the right to remove the flight offer and replace it with a savings in lieu of flights. Once flights have been booked, the flight tickets are 100% non-refundable and non-changeable. Full airline terms and conditions apply at all times. Savings applicable on the cruise element only, excludes port charges, land extensions, hotel stays and other additional items. Groups: Offers apply to new groups booked and deposited during promotional period. No retroactivity.
Flexi Fare offer is for new bookings only. A non-refundable deposit of $500 per person is due within 2 days of booking with full payment required 90 days prior to departure. Savings applicable on the cruise element only, excludes port charges, land extensions, hotel stays and other additional items. Groups: Offers apply to new groups booked and deposited during promotional period. No retroactivity.
Any maps or other route depictions are intended as an indication only and are subject to change. All beverages are included except for a very small number of fine and vintage wines, Champagnes and spirits. Salt Therapy Lounge not available on all ships. Wellness Area treatments at an additional cost. E-bikes not available on all ships. Airport transfers are only available on the first and last day of your tour and at times we designate.