In December 2026, you can embark on an Christmas markets river cruise along the Main and Danube rivers aboard Phoenix Reisen’s MS Adora. This 5-night river cruise sails from Nuremberg to Passau, with outside cabins bookable at €499 per person. Alternatively, French balcony cabins start at €699 per person. For solo travelers, an outside cabin is available at €699, representing a single supplement of 40%.
Do you have questions about the offer, need help, or are you looking for a cruise that suits you even better? Feel free to contact us via our inquiry form. We’re glad to help.
You can book the cruise on the following dates:
- December 8 from Nuremberg at €499
- December 13 from Passau at €499
- December 18 from Nuremberg at €499
This river cruise is operated by a German company, meaning menus, daily programs, and other onboard announcements are catered to German-speaking passengers. That being said, the ship’s crew speaks English. You can easily view this as a great opportunity for some cultural immersion.
Included Services
On Phoenix Reisen river cruises, the following services are included in the fare:
- Voyage aboard the ship in the selected cabin category (incl. all taxes and fees)
- Full board on board (breakfast, lunch, dinner, afternoon coffee/tea, and midnight snack)
- Welcome cocktail / greeting drink
- Captain’s reception and Captain’s Dinner with a festive menu
- Onboard entertainment program
- Use of ship facilities (whirlpool, sauna, sun loungers, library, cards and board games)
- German-speaking Phoenix cruise director
- Complimentary wireless audio receivers with headphones for shore excursions
The Route (Example December 18)
The river cruise begins in Nuremberg. Bavaria’s second-largest city carries a unique charm during the pre-Christmas season. The MS Adora departs its berth in the afternoon, heading first toward Bamberg. Its historic old town is a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring well-preserved medieval architecture, including Bamberg Cathedral and the Old Town Hall situated on an artificial island in the Regnitz River.
On day three, the ship returns to Nuremberg. This provides an opportunity to visit the famous Christkindlesmarkt, one of the world’s most renowned Christmas markets, dating back to the 17th century. The next stop is Kelheim, a historic town first documented in the 9th century. Key sights include the Befreiungshalle (Hall of Liberation) atop Mount Michelsberg, the Danube Gorge, and the historic old town.
In the evening of day four, the ship docks in Regensburg, whose historic center has been a UNESCO World Heritage site since 2006. Highlights include the Stone Bridge and St. Peter’s Cathedral, or an evening stroll through the local Christmas market. The final call before Passau is Linz, Austria, capital of Upper Austria, known for its historic landmarks and regional specialties like the Linzer Torte. After 5 nights, the cruise concludes in Passau.
| Day | Date | Destination | Arrival | Departure |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Nuremberg, Germany | 15:30 | ||
| 2 | Bamberg, Germany | 03:30 | 12:30 | |
| 3 | Nuremberg, Germany | 00:30 | 16:30 | |
| 4 | Kelheim, Germany | 09:30 | 14:00 | |
| 4 | Regensburg, Germany | 18:00 | 21:30 | |
| 5 | Linz, Austria | 15:30 | 23:30 | |
| 6 | Passau, Germany | 09:00 |
The Ship
Built in 2019, the MS Adora is 135 meters long and 11 meters wide. The ship has a capacity for up to 190 passengers and 40 crew members. Most of the cabins are equipped with a French balcony. Public facilities include the Panorama Lounge with a bar, the panorama restaurant Vier Jahreszeiten (Four Seasons), and a Lido terrace. A library and a fitness room complete the amenities.
In good weather, the sun deck—featuring a small whirlpool, deck chairs, seating areas, and shaded spots—is an excellent place to watch the passing scenery on both sides of the river. Cabins on the Neptune Deck have small windows that cannot be opened. On the Orion and Saturn decks, there are several cabins with a French balcony.
The standard equipment of all cabins (approx. 14 to 15 m2 in size) includes a shower/WC, hairdryer, air conditioning, TV, radio, minibar, coffee machine, safe, and telephone. The onboard language is German, and the onboard currency is the Euro. You can easily settle any additional expenses incurred during the journey by credit card at the end of the trip.
Below are some impressions of the cabins and public areas:
