Enchanting Danube River Cruise

Day 1

Fly to Budapest and embarkation

Arrive at Budapest Ferenc Liszt International Airport and transfer to the ship*. Unpack, relax and enjoy your first evening onboard.

Day 2

Budapest

After a delicious breakfast you can choose between enjoying a walking tour of Budapest sampling local delicacies or a panoramic drive through the city to see the he neo-Renaissance buildings of Andrassy Avenue, Heroes' Square, the Franz Liszt Memorial House, the House of Terror, City Park and the Castle District, before leaving the coach and discovering the Opera House on a private tour. This evening enjoy a special Captain’s Welcome Reception and Dinner.

Day 3

Bratislava - Vienna

Your ship sets sail from Bratislava later this morning and heads for Vienna. You may relax onboard all day, perhaps enjoying a drink on the Sun Deck and taking in the scenery as the ship wends its way along the Danube Bend. When you arrive in Vienna, you’ll cap off your day with a private concert of Mozart and Strauss at a stunning Viennese palace.

Day 4

Vienna

After breakfast you will head straight out to the Vienna Art History Museum where the doors will have been opened especially early for you to enjoy a private tour. You can then choose between an Imperial City Highlights tour or a tour to discover Vienna’s music and composers. You will then have leisure time to explore Vienna on your own.

Day 5

Dürnstein to Melk

Dürnstein is a lovely place to wander the cobbled lanes, browse quaint shops and maybe hike up to a ruined castle which has an intriguing tale all its own. You can also opt for a tasting or learn all about the world’s costliest spice from the Wachau Valley’s only saffron grower. Later, visit the 900-year-old Melk Abbey and its extraordinary baroque-style library. You have two ports of call in the incredibly scenic valley, Dürnstein and Melk, and an assortment of delightful ways to explore this lovely region.

Day 6

Linz – Choice of Linz or Salzburg tour

Linz may be best known for its famous Linzer torte, but it’s real importance is in the arts. See the sights with a local expert and visit a family at their farm in the countryside. Austria’s third-largest city, Linz boasts a long history of trading and textile manufacturing, but these days it is perhaps best known for its electronic arts and annual festival. Or choose a full day excursion to Salzburg – city of the Sound of Music and Mozart’s birthplace of Salzburg,  nestled in a glorious alpine setting.

Day 7

Passau

Passau is a crossroads in more ways than one, as three rivers meet here and three nations nearly do, making for a fascinating cultural mosaic. Get to know the town and its main claim to fame—Europe’s largest pipe organ—or enjoy an invigorating riverside hike or bike ride. In the evening, a special Captain’s Farewell Reception and Dinner will be prepared for you.

Day 8

Passau – disembarkation

Disembark the ship and transfer to the airport*.

* Transfers must be booked separately at an extra charge