Your Next Trip TRAVEL GUIDE
Christmas Markets
Sail into the holiday season with AmaWaterways’ AmaMagna on a Christmas Markets cruise along the Danube. From Germany to Hungary, with stops in Austria, Slovakia, and the Czech Republic, discover Europe’s most enchanting holiday traditions. Explore centuries-old markets, taste seasonal treats, and uncover cultural treasures along this festive journey.
Now, check out our recommendations featured in this episode and more!
What to Expect Aboard the AmaMagna with AmaWaterways
The AmaMagna is AmaWaterways’ flagship river vessel, offering a spacious and luxurious cruise experience along the Danube. At twice the width of standard European river ships, this 443-foot-long beauty carries about 196 guests—comfortably tended by a crew of 70—for an elevated small-ship vibe.
Guests stay in oversized staterooms and suites; over half of them are suites ranging from 355 to 710 sq ft, each with a private full balcony and plush amenities.
Highlights:
Dining: Four distinctive venues—Main Restaurant, Jimmy’s family-style eatery, The Chef’s Table, and the outdoors-y Al Fresco dining—all included in the cruise fare.
Wellness & Leisure: A full Zen Wellness studio, fitness center, massage rooms, a juice bar, sun-deck pool, whirlpool, pop-up sky bar, onboard cinema, and even a pickleball court.
Active Excursions: Complimentary bikes and guided hiking or biking tours ashore.
Pros:
Exceptionally spacious accommodations and public areas—uncommon in river cruising.
Multiple dining options offer flexibility and variety.
Top-tier wellness and leisure features—from spa treatments to pickleball.
High crew-to-guest ratio means personalized service.
Cons:
Some shared lounge-buffet layouts feel tight, possibly less ideal for those with mobility concerns.
European-style electrical outlets may require adapters for U.S.-based travelers.
Best For:
The AmaMagna is perfect for travelers who want a luxurious yet active cruising experience—one that blends river comfort with festive port stops and onboard ease. It’s ideal for families and groups (thanks to connecting staterooms), active travelers (with its wellness offerings and excursions), and anyone craving a refined, hassle-free holiday journey through Europe’s Christmas markets.
HIGHLIGHTS FROM THE JOURNEY
Munich Airport Christmas Market
Kick off the holiday spirit the moment you land. This market features festive stalls, an ice-skating rink, and steaming mugs of glühwein. Perfect for a long layover or your first taste of European Christmas cheer.
Vilshofen Market & Port Departure
Begin your journey in this Bavarian town with a charming local market. Indulge in sweet treats like snowballs and Hungarian chimney cakes before boarding the AmaMagna to set sail down the Danube.
Passau’s Market at the Cathedral
Set against the stunning backdrop of St. Stephen’s Cathedral, Passau’s Christmas Market offers nativity scenes, fragrant incense, and decadent hot chocolate—an atmospheric stop rich with tradition and history.
Český Krumlov Medieval Market
A UNESCO World Heritage site, Český Krumlov is a fairytale town with cobblestone streets and a 13th-century castle. Its market is small and artisanal, filled with local foods and handmade crafts.
Vienna Town Hall & Schönbrunn Palace
Vienna dazzles with multiple markets. At Town Hall, enjoy ice skating and carnival-style fun. At Schönbrunn Palace, shop for gifts in the courtyard of a former imperial residence, while choirs fill the air with carols.
Bratislava’s Old Town Market
Walk through Slovakia’s pedestrian-friendly capital to the castle, then wander markets filled with authentic sweets. Don’t miss the fresh gingerbread, a seasonal favorite.
Budapest’s Elegant Markets
Finish in Hungary’s capital with refined markets featuring gourmet food stands and artisan goods. Pair your visit with sightseeing of Matthias Church, Parliament, and St. Stephen’s Basilica for a grand finale.
ABOUT YOUR STAY
The AmaMagna is AmaWaterways’ flagship, a game-changing river cruise vessel that redefines Danube cruising by being twice as wide as traditional European river ships, yet maintaining an intimate feel with just 196 guests and a crew of 70.
Spacious and Stylish Accommodations
Expect ultra-generous staterooms and suites—most ranging from 355 to 710 sq ft, each with full outside balconies. The categories include six Grand Suites (474 sq ft) and a luxurious Owner’s Suite (710 sq ft), with connecting rooms and triple/quad options perfect for families and groups. Most cabins feature individually controlled climate, multi-jet showers, wardrobes, entertainment-on-demand systems (TV, movies, music, Wi‑Fi), and thoughtful extras like a desk and daily water replenishment.
Dining Venues That Delight
Dining is included and extraordinary—with four distinct venues to suit different moods:
Main Restaurant – full-service meals steeped in local flavor
The Chef’s Table – a theatrical small-group dinner in the heart of the action
Jimmy’s – a cozy, family-style spot named after AmaWaterways’ late co-owner
Al Fresco – light-forward, vegetable-centric meals served with river views
All are included in the fare, with beverages such as beer, wine, and soft drinks available during lunch and dinner.
Wellness, Leisure & Activity Spaces
From wellness to fun, AmaMagna excels:
A Zen Wellness Studio with fitness center, group classes, massage rooms, salon, and juice bar
A Sun Deck outfitted with a heated pool, whirlpool, walking track, pop-up sky bar, pickleball court, and deck games like giant chess
Multiple public lounges, a chic onboard cinema, fireside libraries, and complimentary coffee and tea stations for relaxed evenings
Active sightseeing courtesy of complimentary bicycles and guided walking or biking excursions
Personalized Service
Expect warm, attentive service—from a captain who might greet you with a red rose to staff who remember preferences and a Cruise Manager focused on making every guest smile.
| Feature | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Accommodations | Oversized cabins and suites with balconies, top-tier amenities |
| Dining | Four included restaurants—varied cuisine, show, and ambiance |
| Wellness & Leisure | Spa, pool, pickleball, cinema, diverse social spaces |
| Excursions | Complimentary bikes, guided hikes, immersive local tours |
| Service | Personalized, friendly, and detail-driven |
The AmaMagna delivers a luxurious yet dynamic river cruise—blending spacious comfort, G.O.A.T. hospitality, healthful indulgence, and festive shore experiences. It’s perfect for those seeking both elegance and active immersion in holiday culture.
Let me know if you’d like me to add a “Pros and Cons” snapshot next—or perhaps compare AmaMagna’s vibe with other ships in the fleet.
Travel Tips
Best Time to Book
AmaWaterways’ Christmas Markets cruises are among their most popular itineraries. To secure the best staterooms—especially suites with balconies—book 9–12 months in advance. For the lowest fares, look at early bookings in January–March of the travel year, when promotions and incentives are often released. Last-minute deals can pop up in autumn, but cabin choice will be limited.
Getting Around
Since this is a river cruise, most markets and excursions are within walking distance of the port. In larger cities like Vienna and Budapest, metros and trams are reliable options for independent exploring. Rideshare services such as Bolt and Uber operate in Budapest and Vienna. AmaWaterways also provides guided tours and complimentary bicycles for active travelers, as well as excursion options designed for all physical capabilities—from gentle walking tours to active hikes and bike rides.
Safety Tips
Pickpockets target crowds: keep valuables in zipped bags or money belts.
Dress warmly: expect temperatures around 32–40°F (0–5°C) in December. Waterproof boots and gloves are essential.
Be respectful: sites like the Holocaust Shoes Memorial in Budapest require solemnity—no selfies.
Cash is essential: while some vendors take cards, small local stalls prefer cash.Helpful Notes
Currency:
Germany, Austria, Slovakia – Euro (€)
Czech Republic – Czech Koruna (CZK)
Hungary – Hungarian Forint (HUF) Carrying local currency ensures smoother transactions, though some vendors in tourist centers accept euros.
Souvenir Tip:
Hot drinks at markets come in souvenir mugs. Pay a deposit (€2–€4); return for a refund or keep the mug as a keepsake.
Plug Type:
Type C & F
Voltage: 230V
Frequency: 50Hz
Packing List
Here’s our suggested items to pack for this destination. Please always consider the weather and activities you will be doing. Remember, layering is key for comfort in cold, damp weather and frequent transitions between indoor/outdoor settings.
Thermal base layers (tops & bottoms) – moisture-wicking, insulating
Wool or fleece-lined leggings / pants – for layering or wearing alone
Sweaters & turtlenecks – 2–3 warm layers
Insulated winter coat – long, wind-resistant, and waterproof
Warm scarf – oversized or wool
Knit hat or earmuffs – covers ears
Leather or waterproof gloves – touchscreen-friendly is a plus
Wool socks – 6–8 pairs; bring extras
Comfortable walking boots – waterproof with good traction
Casual shoes – for onboard lounging or dinners
Shipboard & Excursion Comfort
You’ll be walking cobblestone streets, standing in markets, and also relaxing onboard.
Evening outfit or two – smart casual for dinner (no formalwear needed)
Athleisure / lounge set – for onboard relaxation
Slip-on flats or sneakers – for ship interior
Small daypack or crossbody bag – for daily excursions & shopping
Reusable water bottle – refillable onboard
Accessories & Extras
Compact umbrella – sudden showers are common
Sunglasses – winter glare is real
Lip balm & hand cream – cold air = dry skin
Mini pack of tissues – some public toilets lack them
Fold-flat shopping tote – for market finds
Power bank – to keep your phone charged during long outings
Travel-size laundry detergent – optional for hand-washing socks/undergarments
Toiletries & Medications
Moisturizing skincare – winter-weight cleanser & face cream
Sunscreen – yes, even in winter!
Cold remedies & personal meds – just in case
Motion sickness aids – river cruising is usually calm, but bring if prone
Cruise Documents & Currency
Passport – valid for at least 6 months after travel
Printed cruise docs / e-docs
Local currency – Euros, Czech Koruna, Hungarian Forint
Credit/debit card with no foreign transaction fees
Secure money belt or RFID wallet
Get a full packing list and free downloadable template at Pack Better.
Ultimate Packing List Library
Find the perfect customizable packing list for all of your travel situations on our sister website Pack Better.
Trip provided by: AmaWaterways
Special Thanks: Brandi Shelton (travel companion)
