Magnificent Danube 7-Night Cruise visiting Vienna, Budapest, Bratislava

R142: Magnificent Danube
8 Days/7 Nights

Places Visited

Bratislava The capital of Slovakia, Bratislava is filled with lovingly restored baroque city palaces and dominated by an enormous castle 300 feet above the Danube. After decades of communist rule, Bratislava is transforming itself into one of central Europe’s most vibrant cities. See St. Martin’s Cathedral in historic Old Town and Michael’s Gate, as well as centuries-old squares filled with shops and cafés.	Bratislava Street Scene
Budapest Hungary’s enchanting capital straddles the banks of the Danube and is divided into two distinct parts, traditional “Buda” and more modern “Pest.” Budapest is aptly called “Paris of the East” for its beautiful evening illumination and reflected lights in the Danube’s waters. The old city features amazing examples of architecture such as Buda Castle, Parliament building, Chain Bridge and Matthias Church, where the coronation ceremonies of Hungarian Kings were held. Gellért Hill, high above the city, offers not-to-be-missed views.
Dürnstein Set amidst the scenic Wachau Valley, Dürnstein is encircled with vine-clad hills and beautiful landscapes. The village maintains its medieval atmosphere by means of its cobblestone streets, and boasts enchanting 18th century houses. Highlights include the ruins of Kuenriger Castle, where Richard the Lionheart of England was allegedly imprisoned in the 12th century. A famous wine town, Dürnstein is also home to many charming taverns that serve local wines.
Melk Set amidst an important wine-growing region with picturesque villages and hilltop castles, the charming city of Melk lies at the confluence of the Danube and Melk Rivers at the base of the Wachau Valley. An imposing 900-year-old Benedictine abbey, a stunning example of baroque architecture, overlooks the town from its dramatic hilltop location. This architectural treasure has 365 windows, one for each day of the year. Its beautiful library houses medieval manuscripts and marvelous frescoes by Paul Troger, and its meticulously kept grounds are inviting and picturesque.

Passau

Set at the confluence of the Inn, Ilz and Danube Rivers, enchanting Passau is home to elegant coloured buildings and graceful arcades. Founded by the Celts more than 2,000 years ago, it’s one of Bavaria’s oldest cities. Passau’s baroque St. Stephan’s Cathedral houses Europe’s largest pipe organ with more than 17,000 pipes.

Passau's Colourful Buildings

Vienna

This capital city of Austria is filled with green parks, elegant stores, theatres and gracious boulevards. Known as the “City of Waltzes,” Vienna is considered the centre of classical music, and here Strauss, Beethoven and Mozart composed many of their finest pieces. Any visitor to Vienna should be sure to stop in one of the city’s famous cafés to taste the delectable Sacher Torte. Noted landmarks include the impressive Hofsburg Palace, Vienna Opera House and lavish Schönbrunn Palace, the preferred residence of the Hapsburgs.