• Experience an exclusive private concert at the Kursalon music hall in Vienna
• Enjoy a guided tour of the Palais Liechtenstein in Vienna
• Attend the morning rehearsals of the regal Lipizzaner horses and their riders at the Spanish Riding School
• Explore the Christmas market of Budapest

• Enjoy complimentary use of onboard high-end bicycles & helmets
• Use our suggested route maps, or your onboard staff can add alternatives
• Bring along water in a collectible Vantage bottle from your stateroom
• For biking please bring firm-soled shoes, lightweight layers in moisture-wicking fabrics, a windbreaker, and pants made of breathable fabric (or padded cycling pants). Hats and gloves are suggested for chilly months

• Participate in cooking demonstrations of regional specialties such as apple strudel and gingerbread
• Experience the culinary treats of Regensburg and several other enchanting cities
• Taste Glühwein and other regional treats during visits to several Christmas markets
• Enjoy several festive dinners aboard your ship

Europe offers a resplendent holiday experience. From unique Christmas markets to the town squares decked out in glittery lights, you’ll experience the holidays like you never have before on this journey. Here are a few seasonal highlights:

• Hear a lecture on Austria’s Christmas traditions
• Visit Christmas markets in Budapest and Vienna
• Learn how to make gingerbread
• Decorate Christmas tree aboard ship

• Be the guest at a private classical music concert at Vienna’s Kursalon Music Hall
• Enjoy festive holiday entertainment on board ship
• Enjoy an organ recital at the Franciscan Church while exploring Bratislava

You’ll want to have your camera ready at all times to capture the highlights of Germany, Austria, Slovakia, and Hungary on this epic cruisetour. Here are a few tips to help you along the way:

• Don’t be afraid of the dark! Exploring cities and landmarks at night offers different lighting and unique new perspectives — just make sure you have a tripod or your camera comes equipped with a night feature!
• Change your perspective. Try shooting from a different angle and enjoy the adventure. For example, climb a stairwell and shoot a landscape from up high or, alternately, get low and shoot a scene from the ground. Wherever you are, embrace this artistic challenge by getting out of your comfort zone!
• Take a selfie! You’ll be glad to have a few portraits of yourself at the distinctive landmarks you’ll find on this journey
• Look beyond landmarks — sometimes everyday scenes are just as inspiring, and are a lesson in embracing the unexpected and seizing the moment in front of you

• Hear an organ recital at a local church in Bratislava
• Admire the Franciscan Church while visiting Bratislava, the oldest existing religious building in the city’s historic Old Town

• Discover Linz, a city with a rich history as a trade hub along the Danube or explore the historic center of Salzburg, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the birthplace of Mozart, and the setting for The Sound of Music!
• Explore Regensburg, a city that was largely untouched by bombing in World War II and whose history stretches back to Roman times
• See the impressive Buda Castle in Budapest
• Explore the historic center of Salzburg, a UNESCO World Heritage site, the birthplace of Mozart, and the setting for The Sound of Music!
• Relish the culture and heritage of Old Town of Regensburg with Stadtamhof, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Your solo-friendly river cruise has been enhanced with special features catering to independent travelers, including:

• Complimentary biking options — take a spin alongside your Destination Manager, who will lead small-group bike rides, or explore independently with our complimentary locks, helmets, and biking maps
• A lively social media night and musical performances most nights
• Solo-friendly social activities, including a Solo Connection mixer
• Onboard entertainment, lectures, and cooking demonstrations

Prior to your expedition cruise, our complimentary Concierge service will be available to help you customize your journey. Here are just a few services your Concierge can provide:

• Do you have a special birthday, anniversary, family reunion or other important event you want to celebrate on board? Let your Concierge know and he or she can make all the special arrangements, whether it’s a private reception in your suite, a gathering in the lounge, and more
• Restaurant reservations. Just notify your Concierge of your interests, and he or she will be happy to make recommendations, and will call ahead to reserve your table
• Special excursions. Would you like a limo to take you for a special night in the city? Perhaps you’d like to look up long-lost relatives. Your Concierge is here to help!
• Extend your stay! Your Concierge can help modify your hotel reservations and flights if you decide to stay on
• Tickets to local concerts, exhibits, theater, sporting events, and more

Take advantage of this free, start-to-finish service by making your requests prior to your journey or during your journey. We are one of the only companies to offer this level of service! Call 1-888-982-6824 or email Concierge@vantagetravel.com to speak to a Concierge today, or simply log into My Portfolio up to two weeks prior to departure.

During your journey, your onboard Destination Manager can assist with any special requests such as spa reservations, hotel reservations, and more.