Budapest • Bratislava • Vienna
I have just been on a Danube river cruise with Riviera River Cruises, beautiful Christmas markets, mouth watering dining, and superb service combined for an unforgettable trip.
Budapest, Hungary
My festive journey began in the gorgeous Hungarian capital. Here I wandered round the city’s Christmas markets, and sampled some of the local delights…spiced forralt bor (mulled wine), and lovely Hungarian pastries. Onboard Riviera’s gorgeous ship MS William Wordsworth, breakfast buffets and à la carte dinners were served with superb service.
Bratislava, Slovakia
In the romantic Old Town of Bratislava, there was a medieval Christmas market where people were dressed in traditional outfits and were handmaking their produce…there was even a ride for the children which was made out of baskets, that swung them round! After merry market exploring, I enjoyed lunch on the ship which featured fresh, locally sourced ingredients, paired with fine regional wines. The waiters were welcoming and extremely professional which ensured every meal felt like a special occasion.
Vienna, Austria
Vienna’s Christmas markets were beautiful, from the majestic Rathausplatz to historic palace courtyards. Between market visits I relaxed onboard with Riviera’s lovely afternoon tea, so many choices of cakes and sandwiches, eaten while enjoying the panoramic river views. Dinner rivaled some of the best restaurants on land: multi-course creations, beautifully presented, with a bespoke wine selection and staff who knew my preferred tipple! In the evening we were treated to a string quartet which was amazing!
The whole experience was fantastic from start to finish.
Riviera’s Signature Excellence
🍽 Exceptional Culinary Experiences
● Five-star dining every day — from lavish buffet breakfasts to beautifully presented dinners.
● Local flavours — menus inspired by the regions you visit, and an absolutely delicious Captains dinner
● Personalised touches — attentive table service that makes you feel at home
● Fabulous crew — dedicated, friendly, and always ready with a warm smile. Impeccable Service
● Comfort and convenience — Seamless service from embarkation to disembarkation.
● Relaxed luxury onboard — comfortable lounges, gorgeous cabins, and crew who remember your favorite drink.
Why This Christmas Markets Cruise was Unforgettable
✨ Exploring iconic festive markets in three captivating capitals
✨ Savoring world-class cuisine and local specialties every day
✨ Enjoying Riviera’s elevated, personalised service
✨ Creating warm holiday memories on the scenic Danube
Whether it’s the sparkle of Vienna’s lights, the rich flavors of Budapest’s seasonal treats, or the cozy charm of Bratislava’s stalls, this Riviera River Cruise delivered an extraordinary blend of culture, cuisine, and Christmas spirit. 🎄🥂
