Beautifully decorated Christmas trees, cosy nativity scenes and twinkling streetlights – starting in November, Europe transforms into a festive wonderland. For those who want to fully embrace this magical time, a VIVA Cruises advent cruise offers the perfect opportunity to sail from one illuminated city to another.

In November and December, VIVA Cruises offers a wide variety of pleasant journeys across several European rivers, with daily stops in the heart of a different city. As soon as guests disembark, they can stroll through festively decorated streets, explore some of Europe's most beautiful Christmas markets and enjoy some typical mulled wine.

Advent cruises on the Rhine

At over 1,200 kilometres, the Rhine is one of Europe's longest rivers, flowing mostly through Germany. This makes it an ideal destination for the festive season, as nowhere else is Advent celebrated with such enthusiasm.

This autumn, guests can choose between four different Rhine cruises, with durations ranging from three, four and six nights. Travellers can hop from Düsseldorf to Koblenz, Bonn and Cologne, linking together all the major cities along the Rhine. For those who enjoy crossing the France-German border, VIVA TIARA offers a route from Frankfurt to Strasbourg and back, with stops in Mannheim, Speyer and Mainz along the way.

Those who stay six nights on the ship don't have to choose between all these destinations- between 27 November and 3 December, VIVA MOMENTS cruises from Düsseldorf to Strasbourg. Between 15 and 21 December, the ship travels the route in the opposite direction.

Advent cruises on the Danube

Germany it not the only country embracing the end-of-year spirit. Austria comes alive too, with Christmas markets popping up everywhere at the end of November. Combined with its charming historical cities, Austria truly resembles a winter wonderland. This makes it the perfect destination for a cruise on board VIVA TWO – VIVA Cruises' newest ship. In December, VIVA TWO will take passengers on a journey along the Danube, stopping in the cities of Passau, Melk, Vienna and Linz.

Advent cruises on the Main

For those who prefer smaller, charming German towns over Europe's major cities, a cabin on VIVA TIARA is an ideal choice. Between 6 November and 16 December, the ship, with capacity for just 152 passengers, will be cruising down the Main River. Guests will enjoy a four-night stay on board, starting in vibrant Frankfurt, before leaving the city to explore the lesser-known German towns of Wertheim, Würzburg and Miltenberg.

Advent cruises on the Seine

On the other hand, VIVA GLORIA will offer a different experience during the end-of-year period, embracing French charm as a floating boutique hotel on the Seine. Departing on 17 December from Paris, the journey will take guests along the Seine into Normandy, with stops in Les Andelys, Rouen and Conflans. The final three days of the cruise are spent back in Paris, where guests can enjoy a panoramic city tour and an excursion to the enchanting Palace of Versailles, both included in the itinerary.

Advent cruises on the Elbe and Vltava rivers

Countless rivers weave through Europe, connecting its most beautiful cities. For instance, travellers can cruise from Berlin to Prague on board SWISS RUBY, which will be sailing this route throughout November and December. Along the journey, passengers will not only explore the German and Czech capitals but also visit destinations like Magdeburg, Meissen and Dresden via the Elbe and Vltava Rivers.

Advent cruises for VIVA Cruises ambassadors

Loyal customers of VIVA Cruises should also try the Ambassador Cruise this winter. Between 14 and 18 December, guests can stay on the prestigious VIVA TWO as it glides from Passau to Vienna and back. During this special cruise, loyal guests will be able to meet Andrea Kruse, CEO of VIVA Cruises – as well as enjoying professional photo opportunities; attending a blue and white gala dinner (VIVA Cruises' colours); and many more surprises.

Cruising between Christmas and New Year

For those who enjoy spending their holidays on the water, VIVA Cruises is also offering several sailings between Christmas and New Year. As staterooms sell out quickly, it is advisable to start planning for the 2025 cruises now.

All VIVA Cruises itineraries include VIVA Cruises' signature VIVA All-Inclusive product, which includes high tea, full board, high-quality alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, minibar, beauty products from cosmetic brand, Rituals, Wi-Fi and all tips and gratuities.

For more information about VIVA Cruises, please visit: www.viva-cruises.com