8 Days|
budapest to Passau
Mar - Nov 2024
You'll Visit:
Budapest, Hungary
Bratislava, Slovakia
Vienna, Austria
Dürnstein, Austria
Melk, Austria
Linz, Austria
Salzburg, Austria
Passau, Germany
Danube Dreams: A Journey Through Time for Couples
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A Journey Through Europe’s Artistic Soul
Dive into the heart of Central Europe with a journey that beckons the culturally curious traveler. The Danube River, with its shimmering waters, winds through Europe, bearing witness to centuries of unparalleled artistic and historical marvels.
This voyage offers a rich tapestry of experiences across four captivating countries, tailored for both the novice river cruiser and the seasoned traveler.
With local experts guiding the way, explore beyond the usual, uncover hidden gems, and enjoy exclusive access, including a private viewing of the renowned Kunstkammer Vienna art collection.
Unravel the Tapestry of Culture
Along the Danube
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest, a city divided by the Danube, is a blend of historical and modern elegance, where Eastern and Western influences converge. Buda and Pest, each side of the river, boast architectural gems, cozy cafés, and rich history, offering a seamless mix of the city's storied past and vibrant present.
Day One | Budapest Arrival
Photo by Zalan Szabo on Unsplash
Budapest, Hungary
Learn how to snack around Budapest like a local. Start with a tram ride to the House of Parliment, enjoy a coffee break at the First Strudel House of Pest, and then continue to St Stephen's Basilica.
Discover: The Great Market Hall with a local chef
Cook: Prepare traditional Hungarian dishes in a cozy, modern kitchen
Taste: The flavors of Hungary, a blend of tradition and innovation
Day Two Budapest - A Culinary Journey
Parliment Bldg. | Photo by Ross Sokolovski on Unsplash
Bratislava, Slovakia /
Vienna, Austria
Stroll through Bratislava's charming parts with a local guide, beginning at the Danube promenade and passing landmarks like the Slovak National Theater and the historic St. Martin’s Cathedral, where 19 Habsburg rulers were crowned.
Discover Michael’s Gate leading to the Old Town, a mix of architectural styles and historical eras, highlighted by the 18th-century Primatial Palace, the signing site of the Pressburg peace treaty. Admire the Grassalkovich Palace, blending the city’s rich history and its contemporary status as the Slovak president’s residence.
Vienna, a city deeply rooted in music, has been home to legendary composers like Mozart and Strauss. Immerse yourself in an enchanting evening in a historic hall, where world-class artists bring these iconic compositions to life.
Sail: Witness the serene beauty of the Danube
Evening Highlight: A private Mozart and Strauss concert in a majestic Viennese palace
Day Three | Bratislava to Vienna
Church in Bratislava | Photo by Reiseuhu on Unsplash
Vienna, Austria
The Vienna Art History Museum showcases the Habsburgs’ extensive collection of art, including works by masters like Bruegel, Vermeer, and Rembrandt.
Enjoy an exclusive early access tour with an art historian, exploring iconic pieces and the story behind Cellini’s legendary gold sculpture in the Kunstkammer galleries. The journey culminates in the breathtaking Cupola Hall, a testament to architectural magnificence.
Begin your culinary journey in a renowned Viennese coffee house, a UNESCO-recognized symbol of the city's rich cultural tapestry, where tradition meets the aroma of coffee and cake. Stroll to Graben Square to indulge in homemade breads paired with a variety of spreads and beer.
The adventure culminates at Stephansplatz, where the majestic Saint Stephen’s Cathedral stands, and a visit to one of Vienna’s oldest wine cellars invites a tasting of exquisite local white wine.
Tour: Vienna’s iconic landmarks and the renowned Art History Museum
Treat: Yourself to a culinary walking tour, savoring Vienna’s famed coffee and local delicacies
Day Four | Vienna -
The City of Waltzes
St Stephen's Cathedral Photo by Ezgi Deliklitas on Unsplash
Dürnstein, Melk | Austria
Indulge in the unique flavors of red-wine-and-saffron chocolate, and saffron-seasoned jams, vinegars, and honey, taking a delightful journey through the rich culinary heritage of the Wachau Valley. The reintroduction of saffron to the region traces back to an 18th-century document discovered by an ecologist in Melk Abbey’s library.
Bernard Kaar, a dedicated cultivator, has since revived the art of growing this precious spice, offering a biodynamically certified saffron that narrates a tale of passion, discovery, and sustainable cultivation.
The village of Dürnstein, though small, is a treasure trove of architectural wonders and historical narratives. A walk through its narrow streets is a step back in time, with structures from the 16th to 18th centuries painting a vivid picture of a bygone era.
The blue baroque tower of the abbey church stands as a testament to the town’s rich history, echoed by the romantic tale of Richard the Lionheart’s imprisonment and eventual ransom, adding a layer of mystique to Dürnstein’s charming landscape.
Stroll: Through Dürnstein’s cobblestone lanes and visit a unique saffron workshop
Visit: The 900-year-old Melk Abbey, a testament to architectural grandeur
Stroll: Through Dürnstein’s cobblestone lanes and visit a unique saffron workshop
Visit: The 900-year-old Melk Abbey, a testament to architectural grandeur
Day Five | Dürnstein & Melk
Melk, Austria | Photo by Andreas Weilguny on Unsplash
Linz, Salzburg | Austria
Salzburg, the birthplace of Mozart, is a city that radiates musical and cinematic history, set against the backdrop of stunning alpine scenery. Known as the filming location for "The Sound of Music," it invites visitors to explore its picturesque squares and baroque architecture.
A tour here is not complete without a visit to Maria’s church in Mondsee and the iconic gardens where the movie’s famous “Do Re Mi” scene was filmed.
or visit
Linz, Austria’s third-largest city, is renowned for its rich history in trading and textile manufacturing and is a modern hub for electronic arts and culture. Visitors can explore its artistic side, highlighted by an annual festival that showcases the city’s contemporary flair.
A guided tour offers insights into Linz’s iconic landmarks and a visit to a local family’s farm, providing a blend of urban charm and rustic beauty.
Dive into Salzburg’s musical heritage and iconic Sound of Music locations.
or
Explore Linz’s art scene and visit a countryside cider farm for a taste of rural life.
Day Six | Linz & Salzburg
Salzburg | Photo by zhang xiaoyu on Unsplash
Passau | Germany
Passau, a cultural mosaic where three rivers and nearly three nations converge, is home to Europe’s largest pipe organ and offers invigorating riverside hikes for the adventurous.
Dive deep into Bavarian culinary culture with a hands-on cooking class led by a local chef, where guests are guided through the preparation of a sumptuous three-course meal.
Begin with obazda, a creamy cheese spread savored on fresh sourdough, followed by a succulent pork roast accompanied by German sauerkraut and bread dumplings.
The experience is crowned with a delectable cake, a sweet testament to the rich culinary traditions of southern Bavaria and Austria.
Choose: A Bavarian cooking class or a cultural and culinary tour of Passau
Evening: Captain’s Farewell Reception and Dinner, a night of elegance and connection
Day Seven | Passau - A Bavarian Gem
Dom St. Stephan Passau | Photo by Yves Cedric Schulze on Unsplash
Passau, Germany
Depart from the charming Passau to Munich Airport, carrying a treasure trove of stories.
Day Eight | Farewell
Dom St. Stephan Passau | Photo by Yves Cedric Schulze on Unsplash
Your Trip Awaits
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Cruise, Discover, Connect
Every bend of the Danube unveils a new chapter of beauty, history, and cultural richness. You’re not just embarking on a cruise; you’re weaving your own tapestry of unforgettable moments, unique tales, and treasured memories.
International and domestic airfare can be purchased separately
Travel insurance can be purchased separately
Pre-cruise stay can be purchased separately
Post-cruise stay can be purchased separately
Upgraded special excursions can be purchased separately
What's Not included:
2024 Bookings
What's Included In This Adventure
Welcome and Farewell Gala dinners
Unlimited beverages, including fine wine, beer, and spirits
6 days of excursions with use of bicycles and walking sticks
Free Internet and Wi-Fi access.
Gratuities for onboard personnel
Group transfers on arrival and departure days.