Celebrate the Season on the Danube

For 2027, National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions is launching two new Europe river holiday itineraries + a new ship!

Andrew Wells
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Ho ho ho - Europe just got a whole lot more magical! National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions has unwrapped two brand-new river journeys for Christmas 2027, sailing aboard the brand-new Evolve. They combine everything we love about the festive season—twinkling markets, rich traditions, cosy winter flavours—with expert-led exploration.

Designed for travellers who want their holidays to feel a little more extra, these itineraries reveal the Danube at its most enchanting. Think Vienna dressed in lights, Budapest buzzing with festive energy, and centuries-old Christmas markets brimming with handcrafted treasures you genuinely want to take home. Aboard Evolve—the newest sister ship to Connect—you can expect beautifully designed spaces, comfortable staterooms and a relaxed, elegant atmosphere that feels like a warm hug after a day of exploring (the good kind, not the awkward relative-at-Christmas kind). Led by a renowned expedition team and a National Geographic-Lindblad photo instructor, you will discover Europe’s winter charm in a whole new light.

Whether you're dreaming of a pre-holiday adventure or a Christmas and New Year celebration with a twist, these limited departures are set to be very popular. Details are below—reach out with questions or to secure spots while availability is still looking jolly.

Just-Launched Itineraries for Christmas 2027

Christmas Markets on the Danube

Christmas Markets on the Danube

  • 8 days
  • 3 Departures in December 2027
  • Evolve
✓ Visit the dazzling Christmas markets of Budapest, Bratislava, and Vienna

✓ Enjoy exclusive access: a private orchestral performance in Bratislava, after-hours tour of Melk Abbey, and a private visit to medieval Clam Castle

✓ Celebrate regional traditions with holiday meals and seasonal tasting menus onboard

✓ Visit Domäne Wachau for a curated wine tasting in Austria’s famed valley

✓ Explore Salzburg or Český Krumlov—both rich with musical and cultural history

Route: Passau to Budapest (or reverse)
Christmas and New Year's on the Danube: A Holiday Voyage

Christmas and New Year's on the Danube: A Holiday Voyage

  • 10 days
  • One sailing only – late December 2027
  • Evolve
✓ Ring in the New Year in Europe’s most elegant cities

✓ Attend festive concerts, holiday dinners, and seasonal events on board and ashore

✓ Visit St. Stephen’s Cathedral in Passau for a private organ concert

✓ Savor local wines and storybook settings, including Melk Abbey, Clam Castle, and UNESCO-listed Český Krumlov

✓ Immerse in culinary traditions that reflect the season and region

Route: Budapest to Vienna aboard Evolve
Sail Aboard a Brand-New Ship

Sail Aboard a Brand-New Ship

Constructed in 2026, Evolve is a brand-new, state-of-the-art European river ship joining our growing collection of bespoke charter vessels. With cutting-edge technology, luxurious amenities and wrap-around picture windows, this sleek 120-guest ship is uniquely designed to sail through the heart of storied destinations along the Danube, including Germany, Austria, the Slovak Republic and beyond. Sustainability and regional connection are at her core, creating a refined and meaningful experience that elevates every journey.

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