Explore impressive capital cities and architectural highlights on this superb cruise along the River Danube.
Cruise from Budapest along the river to Esztergom which was once Hungary's capital and on to Slovakia's capital Bratislava. Continue along the Danube through picturesque Austria, visiting the romantic town of Durnstein and the magnificent abbey at Melk.
From Linz, take a short drive to Salzburg which was once home to the composer Mozart and the setting for the 'Sound of Music'. The final city on this memorable cruise is the cultural city of Vienna before returning to Budapest.
RT145 Operated by Riviera Travel
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The Blue Danube Itinerary
Day 1 - UK - Budapest (Hungary)
Fly from the UK to Budapest where a coach will take you to the ship. The dedicated crew will welcome you aboard ensuring you settle in to your first class floating hotel.
Day 2 - Esztergom
Cruise to Esztergom, Hungary's capital during the medieval times and today the seat of the country's Archbishop. The town is famed for its great Renaissance basilica, Hungary's largest church, and the castle which was seat of the government until the 16th century Ottoman invasion.
Day 3 - Bratislava (Slovakia)
Explore the capital city of Slovakia, Bratislava, which has a beautifully restored baroque old town on a guided tour. Visit the 17th century fortress and enjoy the views across the Danube. This afternoon cruise into Lower Austria through the fascinating locks.
Day 4 - Durnstein (Austria) - Melk
Durnstein is famous for its ice-blue baroque town dominating the river and for being the location where Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned. After lunch, visit the magnificent abbey at Melk which was recontructed in a baroque style.
Day 5 - Salzburg
Moor in Linz where there is a guided tour of this baroque town, or take a short drive to Salzburg which was the setting for 'The Sound of Music' and was home to the famous composer Mozart. Enjoy a guided tour through the city to the architectural highlights and through the charming narrow streets before an afternoon at leisure.
Day 6 - Vienna
Explore the magnificent capital of city of Vienna with its baroque palaces, grand boulevards and impressive galleries. Highlights of Vienna include St Stephen's Cathedral, Hofburg Palace and the Spanish Riding School. Get an insight into this cultural city on a sightseeing tour before time to explore at leisure. Enjoy a traditional music recital on board this evening.
Day 7 - Budapest (Hungary)
After lunch, enjoy a sightseeing tour of Budapest. The twin areas of Buda, built around the hilltop fortress, and Pest. The banks of the river are dominated by the impressive neo-gothic Parliament building. Enjoy a farewell gala dinner this evening.
Day 8 - Budapest - UK
Transfer to the airport for your return flight back to the UK.
The Captain reserves the right to alter the itinerary to suit wind and weather conditions.