November 30-December 8, 2026
Join us for a festive winter journey through Central Europe aboard an elegant river cruise, pairing the joy of holiday markets with the cultural richness of Germany and Austria. From the storied city squares of Nuremberg and Regensburg to the baroque splendor of Vienna and the musical heritage of Salzburg, this 9-day voyage offers unique moments of handcrafted tradition, seasonal culinary treats, and riverside scenery in full holiday glow.
We’ll explore centuries-old advent markets, browse artisan stalls offering wooden toys and gingerbread, raise a mug of mulled wine beneath glowing lights, and sail the majestic Danube River as it winds past medieval castles and sweeping countryside.
Information Session
Grab your lunch and join us online November 13 from noon-1:00pm. when Grand Circle Travel director, Amanda Cardoso, will share the magic of this cruise and answer all your questions. The session is free but registration is required. If you can’t make it, register anyway and we’ll make sure you get the recording.
Accompanied by knowledgeable guest lecturers and local guides, this program is tailored for curious lifelong learners who appreciate more than sightseeing. You’ll experience structured excursions AND restful river-cruise moments that allow time to reflect, chat with fellow travelers, and absorb the atmosphere. Whether you’re stepping into Vienna’s Christmas market for the first time or returning for a second sip of glühwein, this itinerary balances discovery, comfort, and community.
Trip Highlights
- Experience the world-famous Christkindlesmarkt in Nuremberg, one of the oldest and most beloved holiday markets in Europe
- Discover the UNESCO-listed Old Town of Regensburg with its medieval charm and lively Advent celebrations
- Cruise into Vienna to explore imperial boulevards, ornate palaces, and dazzling Christmas villages
- Enjoy a day trip to Salzburg, birthplace of Mozart and backdrop of alpine holiday traditions
- Sample regional specialties including gingerbread, roasted chestnuts, and festive Austrian pastries
- Journey through riverside landscapes lit with seasonal décor and cozy villages
- Connect with fellow travelers who love culture, heritage, and spirited celebration
Whether you’re stepping into Vienna’s Christmas market for the first time or returning for a second sip of glühwein, this itinerary balances discovery, comfort, and community.
Program Details
Dates: November 30-December 8, 2026
Cost: Depends on the cabin you select. We are holding a limited number of cabins priced as follows available on a first-come, first-served basis.
You may also select a higher-priced cabin option or a single cabin, though we cannot guarantee single room availability, and a supplement will apply.
Group Size: We will be sailing on a 162-passenger ship divided into groups of about 38 people, and our OLLI group will remain together.
Through December 5th, 2025, save $500 per person on your registration! And, if you pay in full by then, you receive an additional 10% off your total.
Your registration includes:
- Comfortable accommodations aboard a modern river cruise vessel (with a sauna/hot tub and fitness center)
- Guided tours and curated excursions led by expert local guides
- Most meals, including festive holiday treats and regional cuisine specialties (22 total, 8 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 8 dinners)
- Informative talks and opportunities for cultural learning throughout the journey
- Group travel support from departure to return
This program is offered in partnership with Grand Circle Cruise Lines/Grand Circle Travel and Eckerd College and is open to all OLLI and ASPEC members, Alumni, faculty, staff, family, and friends.
Airfare is not included but Grand Circle is offering flights from Tampa (or other major cities) for $1,450 round-trip and will book that for you.
Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or embracing your next chapter of exploration, this experience brings together the joy of discovery, the warmth of community, and the delight of European holiday traditions. Join us as we celebrate the holiday season by the glow of the Danube — where curiosity is the greatest gift of all.
Click the button below to visit the Grand Circle itinerary page to learn more. Register by calling 1-800-221-2610. When you register, please be sure to mention our CODE G6-29880.
Interested? Have questions? Contact Eckerd Study Travel Manager Judy Tilton at tiltonjd@eckerd.edu.
Why Travel with OLLI at Eckerd?
At Eckerd College, we curate intellectually enriching journeys tailored for passionate lifelong learners. Whether engaging in local history, exploring world-class museums, or enjoying curated cultural events, our programs blend adventure with education—because travel should be as enlightening as it is inspiring.
“It is wonderful to have the opportunity to travel solo but with a group that I have an Eckerd connection with. It is a great learning experience and provides a safe and secure way for me to adventure out into the world. These programs open my eyes to different experiences that I would not have he [sic] courage to go, do, amd [sic] see on my own.“—2024 Buenos Aires Participant
