This unique roundtrip from Passau takes you along the majestic Danube to some of Europe's most cultural and historic capitals.
Take the opportunity to visit Melk's impressive Benedictine abbey, before cruising through the breathtaking Wachau Valley to musical Vienna. An overnight stay allows ample opportunity to admire the city's impressive architecture, including the Hofburg Palace and Parliament Building.
See the sights of the Hungarian capital, Budapest on an optional tour and take the opportunity to visit the Puszta for a unique insight into Hungary's culture, before heading to Bratislava, rich in history, and the beautiful city of Linz.
Enjoy the views of the spectacular riverside scenery and romantic vineyards along the Danube from your elegant ship which moors right in the centre of the historical cities. Optional excursions give you the chance to tour the impressive imperial buildings or enjoy a different perspective of the local cultures.
L140 Operated by Amadeus River Cruises
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Danube Rhapsody Itinerary
Day 1 - UK - Passau (Germany)
Fly from the UK and embark your ship in Passau. Enjoy a welcome cocktail with fellow guests followed by a Welcome Dinner.
Day 2 - Melk/Emmersdorf (Austria) - Vienna
Early morning, the ship docks in Emmersdorf located in the heart of the UNESCO-listed Wachau Valley. Spend the morning exploring this traditional town or head to nearby Melk for an optional excursion to its spectacular Benedictine Abbey. There is the option to join a walking tour of Dürnstein, or to visit a local vineyard and sample some of the region’s famous Gruner Veltliner wines. The ship arrives in Vienna this evening.
Day 3 - Vienna
Drive along the Ringstrasse with its magnificent buildings on an optional excursion, admire the spectacular Vienna State Opera House, visit the Museums Quarter with works by famous artists or head to St Stephen's cathedral. This afternoon, perhaps take the opportunity to visit Schonbrunn Palace with its beautifully landscaped gardens.
Day 4 - Budapest (Hungary)
Late morning arrival in Budapest, a beautiful city which straddles the River Danube. UNESCO-listed sites include Andrassy Avenue, Heroes Square and the Buda Castle Quarter. Admire the impressive Hungarian Parliament which dominates the waterfront or wander along the traditional streets. Perhaps join the optional guided tour of the city this afternoon. This evening, there is a traditional Hungarian folklore show on board, followed by a cruise through illuminated Budapest.
Day 5 - Budapest - Esztergom
For a cultural experience join the Hungarian Puszta excursion this morning, where you will be welcomed with traditional schnapps and salty snacks. Afterwards, you can admire the fantastic relationship between Hungarian horsemen and their horses during a lively horse show. Alternatively, take a trip to admire the Vajdahunyad Castle and the Széchenyi Baths. After lunch, there is an optional excursion to Szentendre, a picturesque artist's village, and Esztergom, the seat of the Hungarian Catholic church. In the meantime, the ship has cruised along the Danube to Esztergom. Re-board and cruise to Bratislava.
Day 6 - Bratislava (Slovakia)
Bratislava is the cultural and economic centre of Slovakia, home to the parliament as well as many museums and galleries which show the country's rich history. Perhaps take a guided walking tour from Michael's Gate through the city, past the Primatial Palace and the stunning St Martin's Cathedral. After lunch, choose to visit the Imperial Schloss Hof Palace, a magnificent 18th-century complex once owned by Empress Maria Theresia. Or explore the ancient Roman city of Carnuntum with its reconstructed Roman Quarter. This afternoon, the ship sets sail for Linz. Captain's Gala Dinner this evening.
Day 7 - Linz (Austria)
After lunch, the ship arrives in Linz. Admire the Mozarthaus and the beautiful Renaissance villas on the optional walking tour or perhaps taste some of the famous Linzer Torte. Alternatively, a tour on the Postlingberg narrow gauge train or ‘mountain tramway’ awaits.
Day 8 - Passau (Germany) - UK
Disembark after breakfast and transfer to the airport for the return flight to the UK.
For navigational reasons the Captain of the ship reserves the right to modify the cruise itinerary.