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River Danube Explorer

Discover the captivating wonders and elegant cities of Austria on this delightful 7-night cruise along the Danube river from Budapest to Passau. Includes shore excursions and complimentary drinks with lunch and dinner

Cruise Only
7 nights from £1995pp

River Cruise Holiday
Durnstein, Wachau Valley
Budapest, Hungary
Melk Abbey, Austria
Passau, Germany
Upper Belvedere Palace, Vienna
St Stephens Cathedral, Vienna

Call us now on 01756 706500 to secure your cabin!

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Enjoy a Hungarian Folk Dance and music performance and discover the highlights of Budapest before cruising to the vibrant city of Vienna. Spend two days exploring Austria's capital; see world-famous attractions such as St Stephens Cathedral and enjoy a leisurely drive along the Ringstrasse.

In the enchanting village of Durnstein, witness the site of the castle where Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned and journey through the beautiful landscapes to the 900-year-old Benedictine Abbey of Melk. Here you can admire Austria's finest Italian Baroque architecture.

Uncover the eventful history of Linz which is often reflected in the city's stunning architecture then head to the German town of Passau. Stroll through picturesque cobblestone streets and see the hilltop Oberhaus Fortress or perhaps enjoy a guided hike.

EM183 Operated by Emerald Waterways

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Danube Explorer Itinerary

Day 1 - Budapest

Welcome to the ‘Pearl of the Danube’. You will be met at the airport and transferred to the contemporary surrounds of your Emerald Cruises Star-Ship, where your friendly captain and crew will be waiting to welcome you. This evening, join your fellow guests for a traditional Hungarian folklore show.EmeraldPLUSTraditional Hungarian folklore show on boardPlease book your flight to arrive into Budapest prior to 05:00 PM.

Day 2 - Budapest

Welcome to Budapest, where an amazing end to a fantastic trip awaits. Explore the city’s cobbled medieval quarter today, as you embark on a coach tour through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city centre. Your guide will teach you about the Hungarian capital’s culinary scene and the tour will finish at the neo-Gothic Grand Market, Budapest's largest and most expansive indoor market, where you’ll have time to explore on your own.    If you are feeling more active, you can instead choose to hike to Buda Hill. The surrounding area has been rebuilt several times, most recently following the air raids of WWII. Some 18th-century Baroque houses still stand, best explored from the medieval paths and alleyways in the area around Buda Castle.EmeraldACTIVEHike to Buda HillIncluded ExcursionCulinary tour of Budapest with Grand Market visitDiscoverMOREExcursion to Szentendre (extra expense)

Day 3 - Bratislava

Relax on board as we sail into the capital of Slovakia this morning. This graceful nation of leafy avenues became an independent country in 1993, and since then, has flourished as a new capital and made a name for itself as a cultural centre. The romantic cobblestone lanes that weave through the city are yours to explore with your local guide, as you enjoy a walking tour of the ancient town centre, including the Slovak National Theatre and a range of Gothic and Art Nouveau buildings.Alternatively, embark on a guided hike to Bratislava Castle, a landmark steeped in legend, that looks as though it has been plucked from the pages of a fairytale. This striking building has been rebuilt several times, most recently in a Renaissance style.Tonight, enjoy some local Slovakian entertainment on board.EmeraldPLUSLocal Slovakian entertainment on boardEmeraldACTIVEGuided hike to Bratislava CastleIncluded ExcursionWalking tour of Bratislava

Day 4 - Vienna

Sweeping boulevards and world-famous art exhibitions welcome you to Vienna, the birthplace of revolutionary breakthroughs in the fields of music and psychology. The city perfectly encapsulates the opulence of the Habsburg Monarchy and their ornate Baroque palaces, some of which you will be able to see during your guided coach tour of the Ringstrasse, followed by a walking tour of the UNESCO World Heritage-listed city centre and its surrounding classical architectural styles, evidence of the melting pot of artistic influences that existed here at the turn of the 20th century. If you are feeling more active, then perhaps choose to explore on two wheels, cycling along the river to the Danube Island.EmeraldACTIVEBike tour in ViennaIncluded ExcursionGuided tour of ViennaDiscoverMOREArt tour of Vienna including Kunsthistorisches Museum (extra expense)DiscoverMOREExclusive Viennese evening concert (extra expense)

Day 5 - Dürnstein - Melk

Effortlessly suspended in time, Dürnstein is one of the most frequented parts of the Wachau wine region, where the delightful warm weather creates the perfect setting for viticulture. Today, you will have the opportunity to walk around and discover the hidden charms of this small Wachau town.Later, sail through the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Wachau Valley and arrive in Melk, where you’ll enjoy a guided tour of Melk Abbey. Originally a lavish castle that was gifted to Benedictine monks during the 11th century, this opulent Baroque building is home to some of the most important collections of medieval manuscripts in the world.EmeraldACTIVEGuided bike tour along the Danube RiverIncluded ExcursionTour of Melk AbbeyDiscoverMOREVisit to Schallaburg Castle (extra expense)

Day 6 - Linz – Ceský Krumlov

This morning, your Star-Ship will dock in Linz and you will be transferred by coach to the UNESCO World Heritage-listed centre of Ceský Krumlov, a town built around a 13th century castle. Join your local guide on a walk along the labyrinth of winding cobblestone streets, passing the colourful façades of buildings, as you learn about how they have survived the test of time. The town surrounds the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Ceský Krumlov Castle, and your guided tour will include the 15th-century St. Vitus Church and a number of delightful Gothic façades. EmeraldPLUSGuided tour of Ceský KrumlovDiscoverMORELinzer torte making workshop (extra expense, not available on all departures)

Day 7 - Passau

Narrow cobblestone streets and the aroma of freshly baked gingerbread welcome you to Passau, a town nestled on the confluence of three of Europe’s main waterways. This important historic trading centre borders Austria and boasts a distinctive blend of cultures.Experience a typical Bavarian farm for some interesting insights into the life of local farmers and livestock farming, then try their homemade specialties. Alternatively, you can set off on a hike, catching sights such as the Mariahilf and St. Severin. an ancient church dating back to the Ottonian dynastyEmeraldACTIVEHike to Veste Oberhaus EmeraldPLUSBavarian brunchDiscoverMOREBavaria Live (extra expense)

Day 8 - Passau

After breakfast, it’s time to disembark the Star-Ship for your transfer to the airport, taking memories of Europe’s iconic skylines with you. Please book your flight to depart out of Munich after 01:00 PM.

Price Includes

  • 7-night full-board cruise on Emerald Waterways Star-Ship
  • Overseas transfers
  • Guided excursions with English-speaking guide
  • Up to 3 EmeraldPLUS activities
  • Up to 6 EmeraldACTIVE activities
  • Complimentary wine, beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner on board
  • Complimentary tea and coffee available at all times and complimentary bottled water in your cabin, restocked daily
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi
  • Captain's Welcome and Farewell Reception & Dinner
  • Evening entertainment on board
  • English-speaking crew and knowledgeable local guides
  • All tipping and gratuities
  • Port charges and airport taxes

Price Does Not Include

  • Additional optional shore excursions
  • Travel insurance

Special Features

  • EmeraldPLUS activities:
  • Traditional Hungarian Folklore Show
  • Guided tour of Cesky Krumlov
  • Local Slovakian entertainment on board
  • EmeraldActive excursions:
  • Guided hike to Buda Hill
  • Hike to Bratislava Castle
  • Guided bike tour in Vienna
  • Guided hike to Durnstein Castle
  • Guided bike tour from Melk to Durstein
  • Guided hike near Passau
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2024 Departures £ price per person based on 2 people sharing

  • March
    • Mar 31st - Passau to Budapest - Sailing on: Emerald Star From: £1995
      Cat E Emerald Stateroom Cat D Emerald Stateroom Cat C Panorama Balcony Suite Cat B Panorama Balcony Suite Cat A Panorama Balcony Suite Cat S Grand Balcony Suite Cat SA Owner's Suite
      Brochure price from: £2545 Brochure price from: £2775 Brochure price from: £3470 Brochure price from: £3580 Brochure price from: £3690 Brochure price from: £4285 Brochure price from: £5055
      Blue Water price from: £1995 Blue Water price from: £1995 Blue Water price from: £2245 Blue Water price from: £2495 Blue Water price from: £2745 Blue Water price from: £2995 Blue Water price from: £3245
  • April
    • Apr 14th - Passau to Budapest - Sailing on: Emerald Star From: £2245
      Cat E Emerald Stateroom Cat D Emerald Stateroom Cat B Panorama Balcony Suite Cat A Panorama Balcony Suite Cat S Grand Balcony Suite Cat SA Owner's Suite
      Brochure price from: £2495 Brochure price from: £2725 Brochure price from: £3530 Brochure price from: £3640 Brochure price from: £4235 Brochure price from: £5005
      Blue Water price from: £2245 Blue Water price from: £2475 Blue Water price from: £3030 Blue Water price from: £3140 Blue Water price from: £3735 Blue Water price from: £4505
  • May
    • May 11th - Budapest to Passau - Sailing on: Emerald Sky From: £2495
      Cat E Emerald Stateroom Cat D Emerald Stateroom Cat A Panorama Balcony Suite Cat S Grand Balcony Suite Cat SA Owner's Suite
      Brochure price from: £2745 Brochure price from: £2975 Brochure price from: £3890 Brochure price from: £4485 Brochure price from: £5255
      Blue Water price from: £2495 Blue Water price from: £2725 Blue Water price from: £3390 Blue Water price from: £3985 Blue Water price from: £4755
    • May 18th - Passau to Budapest - Sailing on: Emerald Sky From: £2495
      Cat E Emerald Stateroom Cat D Emerald Stateroom Cat C Panorama Balcony Suite Cat B Panorama Balcony Suite Cat A Panorama Balcony Suite Cat SA Owner's Suite
      Brochure price from: £2745 Brochure price from: £2975 Brochure price from: £3670 Brochure price from: £3780 Brochure price from: £3890 Brochure price from: £5255
      Blue Water price from: £2495 Blue Water price from: £2725 Blue Water price from: £3170 Blue Water price from: £3280 Blue Water price from: £3390 Blue Water price from: £4755
  • June
    • Jun 2nd - Budapest to Passau - Sailing on: Emerald Star From: £2495
      Cat E Emerald Stateroom Cat D Emerald Stateroom Cat C Panorama Balcony Suite Cat B Panorama Balcony Suite Cat A Panorama Balcony Suite Cat S Grand Balcony Suite
      Brochure price from: £2745 Brochure price from: £2975 Brochure price from: £3670 Brochure price from: £3780 Brochure price from: £3890 Brochure price from: £4485
      Blue Water price from: £2495 Blue Water price from: £2725 Blue Water price from: £3170 Blue Water price from: £3280 Blue Water price from: £3390 Blue Water price from: £3985
    • Jun 7th - Budapest to Passau - Sailing on: Emerald Destiny From: £2495
      Cat E Emerald Stateroom Cat D Emerald Stateroom Cat C Panorama Balcony Suite Cat B Panorama Balcony Suite Cat A Panorama Balcony Suite Cat S Grand Balcony Suite Cat SA Owner's Suite
      Brochure price from: £2745 Brochure price from: £2975 Brochure price from: £3670 Brochure price from: £3780 Brochure price from: £3890 Brochure price from: £4485 Brochure price from: £5255
      Blue Water price from: £2495 Blue Water price from: £2725 Blue Water price from: £3170 Blue Water price from: £3280 Blue Water price from: £3390 Blue Water price from: £3985 Blue Water price from: £4755
    • Jun 9th - Passau to Budapest - Sailing on: Emerald Star From: £2495
      Cat E Emerald Stateroom Cat D Emerald Stateroom Cat C Panorama Balcony Suite Cat B Panorama Balcony Suite Cat A Panorama Balcony Suite Cat S Grand Balcony Suite Cat SA Owner's Suite
      Brochure price from: £2745 Brochure price from: £2975 Brochure price from: £3670 Brochure price from: £3780 Brochure price from: £3890 Brochure price from: £4485 Brochure price from: £5255
      Blue Water price from: £2495 Blue Water price from: £2725 Blue Water price from: £3170 Blue Water price from: £3280 Blue Water price from: £3390 Blue Water price from: £3985 Blue Water price from: £4755
    • Jun 14th - Passau to Budapest - Sailing on: Emerald Destiny From: £2495
      Cat E Emerald Stateroom Cat D Emerald Stateroom Cat A Panorama Balcony Suite Cat S Grand Balcony Suite Cat SA Owner's Suite
      Brochure price from: £2745 Brochure price from: £2975 Brochure price from: £3890 Brochure price from: £4485 Brochure price from: £5255
      Blue Water price from: £2495 Blue Water price from: £2725 Blue Water price from: £3390 Blue Water price from: £3985 Blue Water price from: £4755
  • October
    • Oct 20th - Budapest to Passau - Sailing on: Emerald Star From: £1995
      Cat E Emerald Stateroom Cat D Emerald Stateroom Cat C Panorama Balcony Suite Cat B Panorama Balcony Suite Cat A Panorama Balcony Suite Cat S Grand Balcony Suite Cat SA Owner's Suite
      Brochure price from: £2545 Brochure price from: £2775 Brochure price from: £3470 Brochure price from: £3580 Brochure price from: £3690 Brochure price from: £4285 Brochure price from: £5055
      Blue Water price from: £1995 Blue Water price from: £1995 Blue Water price from: £2245 Blue Water price from: £2495 Blue Water price from: £2745 Blue Water price from: £2995 Blue Water price from: £3245
    • Oct 27th - Passau to Budapest - Sailing on: Emerald Star From: £2295
      Cat E Emerald Stateroom Cat D Emerald Stateroom Cat C Panorama Balcony Suite Cat B Panorama Balcony Suite Cat A Panorama Balcony Suite Cat S Grand Balcony Suite Cat SA Owner's Suite
      Brochure price from: £2545 Brochure price from: £2775 Brochure price from: £3470 Brochure price from: £3580 Brochure price from: £3690 Brochure price from: £4285 Brochure price from: £5055
      Blue Water price from: £2295 Blue Water price from: £2525 Blue Water price from: £2970 Blue Water price from: £3080 Blue Water price from: £3190 Blue Water price from: £3785 Blue Water price from: £4555

Price Information

  • Please note prices are updated regularly from a third party price feed and may fluctuate from those shown. Please contact us for latest prices
  • Prices shown usually include all available discounts
Map for River Danube Explorer