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- Christmas time on the Danube
Christmas time on the Danube, 24 November 2026
4 nights
Emerald Astra
24 Nov '26Cruise overview
Itinerary
Budapest
Welcome to Budapest! You’ll be met by a friendly member of our welcoming team at the airport and transferred to your Emerald Cruises contemporary Star-Ship. After boarding and settling in, you’ll enjoy some leisurely time to explore Budapest.
Budapest is the capital city of Hungary and is located over the River Danube. It is one of the largest cities in the European Union and much of its historical sites have been awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Originally formed in 1873 by the joining of Buda, Pest and Old Buda, the city suffered heavy destruction during World War II and was rebuilt into the country’s political, cultural and commercial hub it is now. Bridges and railways connect the city over the Danube, including the six small islands situated on the river themselves. Some of Budapest’s UNESCO World Heritage sites include Chain Bridge, Budapest Parliament, the striking Matthias church and the iconic Royal Palace visible from every location within Budapest City. The Castle Hills district architecture represents over a thousand years of the city’s history with examples of Roman, Turkish, Gothic, Renaissance and Art Nouveau styles. Budapest also has a rich Jewish heritage and is home to the largest synagogue in Europe. The city has an abundance of restaurants offering international cuisines, as well as traditional Hungarian dishes ,including goulash soup, a very popular lunchtime dish. Hungarians enjoy their coffee so a traditional cafe is never hard to find.
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Budapest
Bratislava
Vienna
Vienna
Grand Balcony Suite
Spacious and refined, the Grand Balcony Suite offers an extended private balcony, separate seating area, plush bedding and a larger bathroom. Guests enjoy extra touches and upgraded amenities for an elevated onboard experience.
Amenities
- Coffee machine
- Minibar
- Pillow menu
- Bathrobe and slippers
- And included laundry service
Grand Balcony Suite
Spacious and refined, the Grand Balcony Suite offers an extended private balcony, separate seating area, plush bedding and a larger bathroom. Guests enjoy extra touches and upgraded amenities for an elevated onboard experience.
- Coffee machine
- Minibar
- Pillow menu
- Bathrobe and slippers
- And included laundry service
Owners One-Bedroom Suite
The most luxurious accommodation onboard, this elegant suite features a separate bedroom and living area, walk-in wardrobe, large balcony and generous bathroom. Enjoy included extras, exclusive amenities and exceptional space throughout your cruise.
- Queen or Twin Configuration
- Lounge Area
- Vanity Area
- Shower
- Mini Bar (Additional Cost)
- TV
- Safe
- Hair Dryer
- Telephone
- Desk
Emerald Panorama Balcony Suite
A signature Emerald design, this suite features a floor-to-ceiling window that drops down at the touch of a button to create an indoor balcony. Enjoy a spacious layout, seating area and contemporary styling with constant connection to the scenery.
- Queen or Twin Configuration
- Shower
- Mini Bar (Additional Cost)
- TV
- Safe
- Hair Dryer
- Telephone
- Desk
Emerald Stateroom
Light and inviting, the Emerald Stateroom features a picture window framing beautiful river views, elegant décor, ample storage and a modern bathroom, creating a comfortable retreat after days spent exploring.
- Queen or Twin Configuration
- Shower
- Mini Bar (Additional Cost)
- TV
- Safe
- Hair Dryer
- Telephone
- Desk
Emerald Single Stateroom - Single Occupancy Only
Designed for solo travellers, this cosy and well-appointed stateroom includes a large picture window, comfortable bed, modern bathroom and thoughtful storage, offering a private and relaxing space throughout your river journey.
- One Single Bed
- Shower
- Mini Bar (Additional Cost)
- TV
- Safe
- Hair Dryer
- Telephone
- Desk
Sun Deck
Open-air space with walking track, putting green, and seating area with panoramic views.
Horizon Deck
Hosts the Horizon Lounge & Bar, The Terrace, and the indoor pool that converts to a cinema.
Vista Deck
Features Panorama Balcony Suites, the Reflections Restaurant, and reception.
Riviera Deck
Home to Riverview Staterooms, fitness centre, and wellness area.
Ship features
Emerald Astra offers sleek design, spacious public areas, and modern amenities, ensuring every journey along Europe’s rivers is as comfortable as it is inspiring.
- All-suite and stateroom accommodation for 180 guests
- Panorama Restaurant with regionally inspired menus
- Refined Horizon Bar & Lounge with floor-to-ceiling windows
- Heated indoor pool that converts to a cinema at night
- Spacious Sun Deck with putting green and walking track
- Wellness area with spa, gym, and bicycles for guests’ use
- EmeraldACTIVE and DiscoverMORE excursion programmes
- Innovative Star-Ship design with energy-efficient systems
- Contemporary décor inspired by modern European living
- Attentive service and relaxed, inclusive atmosphere
Accommodation
Accommodation
Emerald Astra offers a variety of staterooms and suites, all designed to maximise space and comfort. Panorama Balcony Suites feature floor-to-ceiling windows that open at the touch of a button, while Owner’s Suites add separate seating areas and walk-in wardrobes. Every room includes a flat-screen TV, complimentary WiFi, bottled water, and luxury toiletries.
Dining
Dining
Dining aboard Emerald Astra celebrates fresh, locally inspired cuisine. The Panorama Restaurant offers open-seating meals with panoramic views, while The Terrace provides a casual setting for breakfast or light lunches. Guests can enjoy complimentary wine, beer, and soft drinks with lunch and dinner, with menus highlighting regional ingredients and international favourites.
Amenities
Amenities
Aboard Emerald Astra, relaxation and connection come naturally. Guests can enjoy the spacious Sun Deck, unwind in the pool area, or join fellow travellers for evening drinks in the Horizon Lounge. Other amenities include a fitness room, hairdresser, and onboard shop. Bicycles are available for independent exploration in select ports.
Wellness
Wellness
The ship’s small wellness area offers rejuvenating massages and beauty treatments, along with a fully equipped fitness room for workouts. Yoga and guided stretching sessions are also available, complementing EmeraldACTIVE excursions such as hiking and cycling tours.
Entertainment
Entertainment
Evenings on Emerald Astra are sociable and relaxed. Enjoy live music in the Horizon Bar, watch films in the pool-turned-cinema, or take part in cultural events and trivia nights. Daily enrichment includes port talks, cooking demonstrations, and destination lectures.
Families
Families
Emerald Astra is best suited for adult guests, offering a calm, sociable atmosphere and destination-focused itineraries. Children aged 12 and above are welcome, although there are no dedicated family facilities.