Those of you who have been on a Mediterranean cruise before will know how magical it is. One has the opportunity to experience so much in such a short time. An equally exciting journey is a river cruise, especially down the Danube at Christmas time – experiencing the magic of Europe at Christmas from the comfort of your cruise boat is simply unequalled.

There is more than one river cruise line offering such a tour this year. AmaWaterways offers a seven-night Christmas Cruise that travels between Nuremberg and Budapest. The ship will also call at Passau, Regensburg, Linz, Salzburg, magical Vienna and Melk this year. Prices start at £1,245 per person sharing a cabin and £1,747 for single occupancy. This includes champagne breakfasts, all other meals, wine (yes wine, not a soft drink!) with your dinner and excursions.

If there’s one thing you will have to learn on this cruise, it is not to overindulge on the unlimited supply of delicious cakes in the main lounge – otherwise you will not be able to enjoy the mandatory Kaffee und Kuchen (coffee and cake) ritual once you are on dry land.

On Christmas Eve there will be a gala dinner on board the ship and afterwards guests will be able to dance the night away. A highlight of the evening for many will be the performance of Christmas Carols by the ship’s crew.

On Christmas Day passengers can enjoy a day trip to Salzburg. If you are lucky you might just be able to take part in a Christmas service at the local cathedral.