Danube Dreams (Westbound)

Cruise along the peaceful Danube River through Hungary, Slovakia, Austria, and Germany—discovering some of Central Europe’s most splendid capitals and charming towns along the way. Begin this timeless European river cruise in Budapest, where guided sightseeing acquaints you with the highlights of the vibrant capital of Hungary. Set sail on the Danube, take pictures of the impressive Parliament Building as you leave Budapest, and head for Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia. Here, enjoy a guided walk through the delightful Old Town and visit the Gothic-style St. Martin’s Cathedral. Vienna, Austria, the “City of Music,” makes an immediate impression with its lavish Habsburg Imperial Palace and neo-renaissance Vienna Opera House.

Enjoy the magnificent views as your river cruise takes you through the picturesque wine region of the Wachau Valley, with stops for a guided walk in Dürnstein and a visit of the impressive Benedictine Abbey of Melk. In Linz, walk around the Hauptplatz— Austria’s largest medieval square, which forms the center of the city, and be sure to photograph the splendid Trinity Column. Passau, Germany, the “City of Three Rivers,” is uniquely located where the Inn, Ilz, and Danube rivers converge. See its maze of narrow cobblestone streets lined with beautiful Patrician houses, and marvel at St. Stephen’s Cathedral, a masterpiece of Baroque architecture. A memorable conclusion to this delightful Danube River cruise!

Included Features:

Day 1 Budapest (Embarkation): Onboard welcome reception

Day 2 Budapest: Choice of guided tour, see Heroes’ Square or hike with your Adventure Host

Day 3 Bratislava: Choice of guided sightseeing in Bratislava, visit St. Martin’s Cathedral or hike up to Bratislava Castle with your Adventure Host

Day 4 Vienna: Choice of guided sightseeing or bike with your Adventure Host

Day 5 Dürnstein-Wachau Valley-Ybbs. Excursion to Melk: Choice of guided walk or hike up to the castle ruins in Dürnstein; cruise through the Wachau Valley; choice of guided visit of the Benedictine Abbey in Melk, Ybbs city sightseeing with Artstetten Castle visit

Day 6 Linz: Guided sightseeing, see Hauptplatz and the Trinity Column

Day 7 Passau: Schlögen Oxbow scenic cruising; choice of guided tour or hike with your Adventure Host

Day 8 Deggendorf (Disembarkation): Your cruise ends this morning