Early Booking Bonus! 
​Book before December 31, 2026 and receive an additional $50 per stateroom onboard credit.

Calling all lovers of Christmas!  Join us for an unforgettable Ten Palms Travel Signature Journey - where an Avalon river cruise through the heart of Germany and the magic of Prague come together for one extraordinary holiday adventure. 
Step into the magic of the European holiday season as we sail through the heart of Germany with Avalon Waterways, visiting storybook towns, festive Christmas markets, medieval cities, and centuries-old holiday traditions before ending with two unforgettable nights in Prague.
  • Authentic German Christmas markets
  • Medieval towns and storybook villages
  • Würzburg’s Old Main Bridge & Bishop’s Residence
  • Bamberg’s famous nativity traditions
  • Nuremberg’s Christkindlesmarkt
  • Two nights in magical Prague

The Experience

​Our Christmas Market adventure begins in Frankfurt.  You may choose to arrive the day of the cruise, or join us a day early to enjoy the city a bit more.  In Frankfurt, we will board our Avalon Suite Ship®, festively decorated and beautifully dressed up in Christmas color, and embark on this Christmastime river cruise through the heart of Germany. Our European river cruise takes us behind medieval walls and towered gates to enjoy a guided walking tour in a picturesque village along the Main River.  Celebrate the season in charming Würzburg, known as the “Pearl of the Romantic Road,” and surrounded by sloping vineyard-covered hills. Visit the ornate Bishop’s Residence—home to the largest ceiling fresco ever painted, then we'll stroll through the Christmas markets while we sip Glühwein (hot mulled wine).  We'll continue our Christmastime river cruise to Bamberg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where the many nativity scenes exhibited throughout the town are sure to delight.  Our river cruise will end in Nuremberg where you can take a guided tour of Nuremberg with free time to visit the Christmas market—one of the most famous in the world. Wander through Old Town illuminated with holiday lights and decorations, and be sure to sample some traditional lebkuchen (spicy gingerbread), a Nuremberg specialty. While on board, you’ll also hear all about German Christmas traditions.  We will then disembark our ship and travel by motor coach to Prague, Czech Republic—a 1,200-year-old city preserved in time. Stand in front of the medieval Astronomical Clock and browse the Christmas markets where rows of brightly decorated wooden huts sell Christmas tree ornaments, wooden toys, and Czech handicrafts. And you can’t miss the beautifully decorated tree in Old Town!  Historical treasures of Germany and magnificent Prague are perfectly paired with the sights, sounds, and scrumptious tastes of the joyous holiday season on this unforgettable European river cruise.

Avalon River Cruising

There is something uniquely special about river cruising—the journey itself becomes part of the experience. Instead of spending days at sea, you are constantly surrounded by scenery, gliding past charming villages, vineyard-covered hillsides, historic cities, and storybook landscapes. River cruises also bring you right into the heart of many destinations, often allowing you to step off the ship and begin exploring almost immediately, all while enjoying the ease of unpacking just once.
Avalon Waterways takes that experience a step further by combining the intimacy of river cruising with spacious accommodations, thoughtful inclusions, and plenty of flexibility. Their signature Panorama Suites are a standout, with wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling windows that open wide to create an Open-Air Balcony—and beds positioned to face the river, so you can wake up each morning to the scenery passing right outside your room. In port, Avalon goes beyond the standard sightseeing tour by offering a variety of included excursions, allowing you to experience each destination in the way that interests you most. Back onboard, you’ll enjoy excellent regionally inspired cuisine, included wine and beer with meals, comfortable public spaces, attentive service, and a relaxed, upscale atmosphere without feeling overly formal. Perhaps best of all, Avalon strikes a wonderful balance between having so much included and still giving you the freedom to make the journey your own—making it an ideal choice for travelers who want to truly experience the destinations rather than simply cruise past them.  Come and experience Cruising Elevated with us!  

Our Ship: The Avalon Panorama

Step aboard the Avalon Panorama, an intimate and beautifully designed Suite Ship created to keep you connected to the scenery at every turn. At 443 feet long, she welcomes just 166 guests in 83 staterooms and suites, cared for by a crew of 47, creating a relaxed, uncrowded atmosphere with attentive, personal service. 67 of her 83 accommodations are suites—including Avalon's signature 200-square-foot Panorama Suites with wall-to-wall, floor-to-ceiling windows that open seven feet wide to create an Open-Air Balcony®, plus beds thoughtfully positioned to face the river rather than a wall. Beyond your stateroom, you'll find an abundance of inviting places to relax and enjoy the journey, including the light-filled Panorama Lounge, cozy Club Lounge, Observation Lounge, glass-walled dining room, Panorama Bistro, fitness center, and an expansive Sky Deck complete with premium lounge seating, a whirlpool, games, and opportunities for open-air dining. Complimentary Starlink Wi-Fi, 24-hour specialty coffees and treats in the Club Lounge, and Avalon's signature relaxed approach to luxury make the Panorama feel less like a large cruise ship and more like an intimate floating boutique hotel—one where some of Europe's most beautiful scenery is always part of the experience.

The Full Day-by-Day Itinerary 

November 29, 2027:  Depart the US for Frankfurt 

Most international flights to Europe will depart your home city in the afternoon or evening and fly overnight to Frankfurt.  You will depart your hometown on Nov. 29th for an arrival into Frankfurt on Nov. 30th.  You may also choose to arrive in Frankfurt on November 29th (depart home city on Nov. 28th) for a two night stay in Frankfurt for an additional fee.  We are happy to assist with airfare and transportation between the airport and your hotel.  

November 30, 2027: Day 1 - Arrival into Frankfurt / Frankfurt Hotel Stay / Enjoy the Frankfurt Christmas Markets

We will arrive into Frankfurt the day before our cruise to provide us with time to enjoy the Frankfurt Christmas Markets (and to account for possible flight delays).   This stay is already included in the cost of your package at the Westin Grand Frankfurt or similar.  

At Christmastime, the historic central square in Frankfurt’s Old Town comes alive with twinkling lights, festive stalls, a towering Christmas tree, and the scents of seasonal treats and warm drinks filling the air. As home to one of Germany’s oldest Christmas markets, Frankfurt offers a wonderfully festive introduction to the traditions, flavors, and atmosphere that make a European Christmas so magical.   

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December 1, 2027: Day 2 - Embarkation Day / Depart Frankfurt / Overnight Cruise to Main River Village

After breakfast this morning, we will be transferred to our beautiful ship: The Avalon Panorama as we make our way down the Main River.   
​
Included Meals: Breakfast and Dinner​

December 2, 2027: Day 3 - Main River Village: Hidden Gifts and Holiday Delights

Join a German Cookie Baking Demonstration on board your ship while sailing. 

Upon arrival in the village, you will have the option to explore on your own, or take a Guided Tour of a picturesque village along the Main River. 

This evening, we will have a taste of local entertainment back on board as we get into the holiday spirit as cheerful carolers come aboard to fill the air with beloved Christmas songs.  Additional live entertainment will follow on board. 

We will overnight cruise to WÜRZBURG

​Included Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

December 3, 2027: Day 4 - Wurzburg: Old St. Nick and Nutcrackers Sweet

This morning you will have your choice of excursion.  You may either take a guided sightseeing tour of the “Pearl of the Romantic Road” with its Old Main Bridge, towering fortress, and baroque Bishop’s Residence. OR, you may choose to join a guided excursion to the beautiful Bavarian town of Rothenburg. Visit the Käthe Wohlfahrt German Christmas Museum—the world’s most extensive collection of traditional German Christmas decorations.

Upon returning from your excursion, you will have free time to enjoy the festive, warm glow of Wurzburg’s Christmas markets.

We will overnight cruise to BAMBERG.
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Included Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

December 4, 2027: Day 5 - Bamberg: Christmas Customs and Cradle Scenes

While sailing today, we will enjoy an onboard Christmas Traditions of Germany presentation.

Upon arrival in Bamberg, you may explore on your own, or join a Guided Sightseeing Tour of Bamberg—medieval home of Germany’s Roman Empire dynasties. Stroll through dozens of Bamberg’s nativity scenes—from miniature to life-size.

Then, we will take free time to enjoy the quaint Christmas markets, and warm up with traditional German dumplings, sausage, and a glass of hearty Bavarian ale.

Back onboard, you may opt to join an onboard​ workshop to learn how to create beautifully decorated candles.

Later, enjoy live entertainment onboard.

EVENING/OVERNIGHT CRUISE TO
NUREMBERG
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Included Meals (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

December 5, 2027: Day 6 - Nuremberg: Legends and History Lessons

Upon arrival in Nuremberg, you may choose a Guided Tour of Nuremberg’s medieval architecture, gilded fountain, Gothic cathedral, and Kaiserburg Castle, OR you may choose to  join a Guided Tour of the historic Nuremberg Rally Grounds—used by the Third Reich.
Then, spend free time browsing the spruce stalls of the Christmas Markets of Nuremberg. Sample favorite Bavarian fare—bratwurst, gingerbread, mulled blueberry wine, and countless other Christkindlesmarkt culinary delights.
Onboard, you may opt to join a gingerbread Cooking Demonstration if you wish.  
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OVERNIGHT DOCKING IN NUREMBERG
Included Meals: (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

December 6, 2027: Day 7 - Disembark in Nuremberg / Motor Coach to Prague, Czech Republic / Folklore Dinner Show

This morning, we will bid our crew farewell and head for the Golden City of Prague where we will check in to our hotel for our final two nights: The Prague Marriott (or similar). 

​This evening, we will enjoy a two-and-half-hour show with amazing dancers and musicians in traditional costumes from Czech and Moravian regions and a 4-course dinner featuring original Czech recipes with unlimited beer, wine, and soft drinks.  The dinner is a signature event for guests of Ten Palms Travel.  

Included Meals: (Breakfast and dinner)

December 7, 2027: Day 8 - Prague: Gothic Cathedrals, Grand Castles, and Great Cuisine

After breakfast this morning, we will take a Guided City Walk to visit Hradcany Castle Grounds; see St. Vitus Cathedral and Old Town’s Astronomical Clock.
​
Our afternoon and evening are free to browse  the exquisite Christmas Markets of Prague. Avalon saves the best for last as the Prague city center definitely has a tremendous "wow" factor at Christmastime.  Stroll through the brightly colored wooden stalls for final gifts, ornaments and  toys and handicrafts to take a bit of your European Christmas home with you.  

Included Meals: (Breakfast)

December 8, 2027: Day 9 - Fly Home

After breakfast this morning, our trip will end.  Return flights may be scheduled from Prague as early as you would like. 

​If you purchase your air with Ten Palms Travel, we will ensure that your transportation to the airport is taken care of for you.  

Post cruise nights in Prague are also available, if you would like to extend your stay a bit longer.  

Included Meals: (Breakfast)

Trip Inclusions and Pricing

Trip Inclusions:

  • One night pre-cruise stay in Frankfurt (Westin Grand Frankfurt or similar) with breakfast 
  • Transportation from the Frankfurt hotel to the cruise port 
  • Five night Christmas Market River Cruise through the Heart of Germany in stateroom category of your choice (see below)
  • Port charges and taxes 
  • All meals onboard the ship
  • Unlimited wifi 
  • Complimentary daily happy hour during sailing with beer, wine, and a selection of cocktails
  • Unlimited beer and wine with lunch and dinner onboard the ship
  • Shipboard staff gratuities 
  • Invitations to Ten Palms Travel's exclusive onboard events 
  • All activities and excursions during the cruise, as mentioned in the itinerary 
  • Motor coach transportation from Nuremberg to Prague after the cruise
  • Two night stay in Prague (Prague Marriott or similar) with daily breakfast
  • Curated Folklore show and four course dinner with transportation in Prague (this event is available only for guests booked with Ten Palms Travel)
  • City tour of Prague
  • Plenty of free time to shop and enjoy the many Christmas Markets of Germany and Prague
  • Dedicated tour guide and luggage handling throughout the Prague portion of the trip​

Not Yet Included:

  • Airfare from your home city - we are happy to assist with booking your air and transportation between the airport and your hotel in both Frankfurt and Prague for a seamless travel experience
  • Transfer from Frankfurt airport to hotel / Transfer from Prague hotel to airport (we can assist with this as well, even if you do not book your flights with us)
  • Additional pre-cruise nights in Frankfurt 
  • Additional meals not specifically mentioned in the itinerary
  • Travel insurance - a full quote will be provided to you at time of booking 
  • Gratuities for drivers and guides during excursions 

Option 1: Deluxe Stateroom (Category D/E):
Full Trip Price: $4,115 per person / double occupancy
​These staterooms are the perfect place to recharge your batteries. The most affordable option, featuring two twin beds or a queen-size bed.  
  • Approx. 172  sq ft.
  • Comfort Collection BedsSM, featuring premium memory foam mattress toppers with special construction for increased airflow and ventilation and a choice of four firmness selections - from extra firm to pillow-top soft
  • ​Egyptian super-combed cotton linens, blankets, & European-style duvets
  • Soft & firm pillows
  • Nightly turn-down service
  • Bathrobes & slippers
  • Bedside tables with reading lamps
  • Large private bathroom featuring full shower with glass door, hairdryer and premium L'Occitane bath products
  • Spacious 3-door closets with shelves for  ample storage
  • Flatscreen satellite TV with movie channel and built-in alarm clock
  • ​Writing desk/vanity with mirror &  comfortable chair
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi access
  • Direct-dial telephone
  • Well-stocked minibar
  • In-room safe
  • Continental breakfast, lunch, dinner, and beverage room service available​

Option 2: Panorama Suite (Category B/A/P):
​Full Trip Price: $5,472 per person / dbl occupancy (Cat. B) 
$5,543 per person / double occupancy (Cat. A)
​ $5,579 per person / double occupancy (Cat. P)
This impressive stateroom offers the added indulgence of a floor to ceiling, open air balcony and gives you more space than a Deluxe stateroom. Enjoy your own fresh outdoor breeze with a table, chairs, sofa and a relaxing view of the inspiring scenery surrounding you, whether a beautiful sunset over the river or a new city to explore. It’s also perfect to enjoy cocktails before dinner or a leisurely breakfast, as room service is included.  

This cabin features all of the same amenities as the Deluxe stateroom, but also includes the following: 
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  • Approx. 200 sq. ft.
  • 11' Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Window- 50% wider than industry standard
  • Wall-to-Wall Panoramic Window opens to create a large Open-Air Balcony®

Avalon Panorama Deck Plans and Room Locations

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Ten Palms travel friends and family trip / signature journey
Each year, Ten Palms Travel hosts several group trips where all of our friends and family are welcome and one of our advisors is actually on the trip to help with any concerns and alleviate some of the stress/fear that may come with traveling.  Because we consider ALL of our clients our friends and family, that means YOU are invited to join us and bring as many as your own friends and family as you'd like.  Special negotiated rates, fun events, and group perks are always included.   ​
May I share this invite with my own friends and family?
Yes, of course.  The more the merrier.  We have many small groups of friends or family members within our large groups that love to travel together.  As long as they are kind and enjoy having fun, they are invited!  
How many people usually travel on these trips?
The largest group we've ever had was 70 people.  The smallest group was 12.  Each trip is different.  For this particular trip, I would anticipate between 20- 30 guests in total.  
Who is this trip designed for?
This trip is perfect for anyone who has ever wanted to visit the famous Christmas Markets of Europe and/or would love to see Germany in depth, is interested in WWII history,  and/or has wanted to visit Prague.  Additionally, this is a great experience for first time river cruisers, as you will have your travel advisor onboard to help with questions or concerns.  It is a great combination of a shorter river cruise combined with a land package, so you aren't committing to 7-10 days on a river if you aren't sure if you will enjoy the experience just yet (but I would bet that you will).  I also love this trip for a girls' getaway, for friends, mother/daughter, sister trips, as there will be lots of shopping but it is not designed specifically for women only.   If you love Christmas and getting into the holiday spirit, you will NOT regret booking this trip!  
Do I need a passport?
Yes, all guests must have a passport BOOK with at least 6 months of validity after the date of returning home to travel on this cruise.  
What is not included in the cost of the trip?
Not yet included in the cost of this trip:
  • Airfare and transportation between the airports and hotels
  • Optional travel insurance
  • Additional optional excursions 
  • Additional pre-cruise nights in Frankfurt and post-cruise nights in Prague (optional) 
  • Gratuities for transfer drivers and excursion operators
  • Additional meals not mentioned on the itinerary
can you book my airfare?
Yes, we can absolutely help with booking your airfare.  Please be sure to fill out your request on the booking form.  
Do you offer travel insurance?
Yes, we will offer travel insurance at the time of booking.  Because the cost of insurance is based off of the age of the guests and the total cost of the trip, insurance quotes will be individualized.  We offer basic, preferred, and cancel for any reason policies.  
I am interested, but i would like to talk to you first before booking.  how do i do that?
If you have additional questions that you would like answered before booking, you can reach us in three different ways:
Will there be free time to do our own thing? 
Absolutely!  Our group trips always have tons of free time built in to spend time exploring on your own or with your personal friends and family traveling with you.  There will be plenty of relaxation time, some fun entertainment, a couple of group events (participation is totally optional), informal invites to things if you want to come (but never any pressure) and a group Folklore show and four-course meal in Prague (included in the cost of your trip, but you don't have to participate if you don't want to).  
How do i sign up?
Click any of the boxes on this page and you will be directed to our booking form.  Please fill out the form in its entirety and submit it.  You'll receive an email with next steps after the form is submitted.  
I don't have my passport yet.  can I still sign up? 
Yes, you can sign up without a passport, but you MUST have one by the time we travel.  We will need to know your full name and birthday as it will appear on your passport to start the booking process.  Once you sign up, cancellation and change penalties will apply, so please keep that in mind.  You need to be certain that you will be able to obtain a passport in time for the trip.  
Are gratuities included?
Staff gratuities onboard the ship are included.   Transfer drivers, excursion providers, the tour director, and restaurant service during the Prague portion of our trip will  have additional expected gratuities.  
Do I need to get Euros before leaving home?
It is recommended to order Euros in advance of travel from your bank, although some guests prefer getting them at an ATM while in destination.  I personally find that it is easier just to have Euros readily available when you land in Germany, as your transfer driver will be expecting a tip immediately. I would advise getting enough Euros in advance in small bills, mostly for tipping or small purchases, but most hotels, restaurants and stores will take credit cards without issue.   If you plan to shop till you drop at the Christmas Markets, you will want to bring extra cash for sure.  Many of the larger markets will take credit cards, but don't expect that everywhere, especially if you are planning to purchase small trinkets, beverages, and snacks.  Most vendors will appreciate you paying in cash (Euros).    If you decide to purchase any additional services on board the ship, they will be charged directly to your credit card.  Please do not try to pay for items with USD in Europe.  
How does river cruising compare with ocean cruising?
Very simply, it does not.  It is a completely different travel experience in which the main focus is on the destinations and not the ship.  Think of your river cruise ship as a floating boutique hotel, allowing you to unpack once and see a variety of beautiful cities.  All of your meals are included and the service will be excellent, but there will not be casinos, discos, Broadway shows, etc...  Instead, you will have a culturally immersive experience in which most of the onboard entertainment is performed by locals that are invited onboard.  Food is farm to table and menus are selected based on the items available in your destination.  Your ship will have comfortable accommodations, two lounges, a large bar,  a large dining room, a smaller alternative dining area, a large sun deck with hot tub, a small gym, and a lobby.  Local beer and wines are served unlimited with lunch and dinner and a complimentary happy hour before dinner is also included with a selection of complimentary cocktails.  
Is Single occupancy available?
Yes, you are able to stay in a stateroom by yourself if you wish, but the pricing will be very similar to double occupancy, even if just one guest is in the room.  Most of the time, it would be best to try to find a buddy to sail with you to split the cost.  If you are interested in pricing for single occupancy, please note that on your booking form.  

Meet Your Travel Advisor/Trip Hostess: 

Hi! I’m Traci, travel advisor and owner of Ten Palms Travel.
I have always loved river cruising because it is such a different way to experience Europe. There is something really special about unpacking once, sailing right through the heart of a destination, and waking up each morning somewhere completely new. You get to see so much, but at the same time, the experience feels relaxed and easy.  ​I have personally taken five river cruises on several different cruise lines to date, and Avalon has become one of my favorites. I love the smaller ships, the beautiful Panorama Suites, the included excursions, the food, and the overall atmosphere onboard. It is comfortable and upscale without feeling stuffy, and I think they do a really good job of giving you a nice balance between organized sightseeing and free time to explore on your own.
One of my favorite things is introducing people to river cruising for the first time. It is such a fun experience to watch someone realize how different it is from a traditional ocean cruise. You are not spending days at sea—you are sailing past vineyards, castles, small villages, and historic cities, and many times you can simply walk right off the ship and start exploring.
I am especially excited about this trip because, believe it or not, I have never done a Christmas Markets river cruise before! It has been on my own travel wish list for a long time, and I cannot wait to experience Germany and Prague during the holidays. The Christmas markets, lights, food, music, decorations, and all of the little holiday traditions along the way just sound magical to me.
But as much as I love the destinations themselves, what makes these Signature Journeys truly special are the people.
One of my greatest joys is watching complete strangers become friends over the course of a trip. There is just something fun about experiencing a destination with a group of people who are all excited to be there. Whether we are wandering through a Christmas market, enjoying dinner onboard, trying a new food, or sitting together over a mug of mulled wine, those shared moments are often the ones we remember the most.
My goal is for you to feel completely taken care of from the moment you book until the day you return home. I will help with the details, make sure you know what to expect, and be there to support you along the way so that you can simply relax and enjoy the experience.
I am so excited for this one, and I cannot wait to share the magic of river cruising—and Christmas in Europe—with you!

Ten Palms Travel
[email protected]
405 - 407-2567​

Ten Palms Travel,
an independent affiliate of Travel Planners International A Signature travel Network Member

CST: ​DTN2738984 & ​2063964-50