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Danube Cruise: Vienna – Black Sea

Rates & dates.

• from 2.455,00 €

Take the amazing Danube River cruise from the majestic imperial capital of Vienna along the the mighty European river all the way to the shores of the Black Sea . Visit no less than 8 countries and 4 capitals in 12 days you will never forget. This itinerary will take you from Vienna to Oltenita, but you can also choose the opposite direction .

Day 1: ARRIVAL TO VIENNA

This Danube River Cruise starts in Vienna , one of the most fascinating European capitals, with rich history and beautiful infrastructure. You can board our ship at 18:00 and enjoy a welcome cocktail.  In the evening you are welcome to attend a classical Viennese concert (subject to availability) and experience the true spirit of this imperial city.

Day 2: VIENNA – BRATISLAVA – BUDAPEST

Start the day with the visit of magnificent  Schönbrunn Palace , the former summer residence of the Habsburg royal family and the gorgeous park that surrounds it. Alternatively, you can opt for another kind of Viennese experience: visit the backstage of the famous concert hall Konzerthaus and try a cup of aromatic coffee in one of the many city cafes. In the afternoon we will sail towards Bratislava , the capital of neighboring Slovakia. there you can join our classical tour of the city and learn all about its history while you stroll around the medieval center. If you prefer a more active afternoon, you can hike up the Devin Castle and enjoy the beautiful views of Bratislava and the Danube. Once you return to the ship, we will move onwards towards Budapest.

Day 3: BUDAPEST

Spend the day exploring Budapest , the gorgeous capital of Hungary, full of baroque, neoclassical and art nouveau buildings. Learn all about the intriguing history of the two cities, Buda and Pest , from the opposite banks of the Danube River which united only in 1873. As an alternative, you can join our off-the-beaten-paths tour of Budapest to learn about its hidden corners. Afternoon is free to explore the city on your own our join our additional excursions: Budapest Market Halls or Gallert Baths (available as a supplement). In the evening you are welcome to have some fun with other cruise guests and enjoy a traditional Hungarian entertainment. During the night, the ship will leave Budapest and sail towards the vast Pannonian planes.

Day 4: BUDAPEST – PANNONIAN PLANES – NOVI SAD

We will spend the forth day of the Danube River Cruise  sailing through the vast Pannonian plain also known as puzsta . This is the true heart of Hungary where traditional way of life is still preserved. We will make a stop in Kalosca and attend a horse show before moving on towards Serbia .

Take the amazing Danube River Cruise and visit 8 European countries

Day 5: novi sad – belgrade.

In the morning we will explore Serbia’s second largest city, Novi Sad , a vibrant and creative place, packed with galleries and alliterative music bars. Besides its Austro-Hungarian architecture, which you can observe during the city tour, Novi Sad is know for the imposing Petrovaradin Fortress situated on a hill above the Danube . This second-largest fortress in Europe became famous for hosting a popular summer music festival Exit , but it will impress you in any time of year. In the afternoon we will move to Belgrade, where you can spend the evening engaging in a traditional Serbian show.

Day 6: BELGRADE

After breakfast, your guide will take a tour of  Belgrade . The capital is famous for its diverse architectural styles, its history and the magnificent views offered by the largest confluence of two rivers (Sava and Danube) in Europe. Instead of the classical city walk, you can opt for a bike tour and learn more about the Belgrade’s recent history. In the afternoon we will leave the Serbian capital and set south.

Day 7: THE IRON GATES

We will spend the whole day enjoying the Danube River Cruise as we sail along the border between Serbia and Romania . The highlight is of course the passage through the famous Iron Gates , a narrow and over 100 kilometers long gorge where Danube squeezes between the jaw-dropping cliffs – some of them are over 500 meters high. Along the way, we will pass by the striking Golubac Fortress which guards the entrance to the gorge and the historically-significant T abula Traiana , a marble plaque honoring the Roman road that once linked the province of Dacia (today’s Romania) with the rest of the empire. In the evening, enjoy our gala dinner on board.

Day 8: RUSE & RUSENSKI LOM

In the morning we will arrive to Bulgaria . First we will visit the spectacular Rusenski Lom Nature Park , famous for its pretty river terraces, high vertical rocks and other impressive rock formations. there we will visit the UNESCO-protected Churches of Ivanovo , a group of monolithic chapels and monasteries hewn out of solid rock, noted also for its beautiful and well-preserved medieval frescoes. In the afternoon, we will return to the port town of Ruse , an elegant Bulgarian town full of belle époque buildings and vast squares. In the evening we will prepare another traditional show, this time with Bulgarian music.

Day 9: RUSE – BUCHAREST – TULCEA

Day trip to Bucharest . With its 1,8 million inhabitants the city is the largest Balkan capital . In the past known as Little Paris, Bucharest has changed a lot in recent years. Numerous booming infrastructure projects (partly funded by the EU) are changing the old face  of the Romanian capital. Especially charming has become the long neglected historic old town called the  Lipscani where narrow cobblestone streets still hold the names of the ancient guilds that resided on them. When talking about greatest attractions of  Bucharest , one simply cannot avoid mentioning the  Parliament Palace , the largest legislature building in the world. Other important buildings worth visiting are  Patriarchal Cathedral , the centre of Romanian Orthodox faith built in the 17th century and the picturesque  Stavropoleos Church . In the evening we will return to the ship and sail towards Tulcea.

Day 10: DANUBE DELTA

After reaching the port of Tulcea , we will explore the vast Danube Delta , starching over 4000 square kilometers of marshes and wetlands, creating a perfect habitat for 300 species of birds and 160 species of fish. You can choose between leisure-type of cruise along the delta or an exciting speed boat ride. Either way, this is the perfect place to end your Danube river cruise . During the night our ship will sail back up the stream towards Cernavoda.

Day 11: CERNAVODA – CONSTANTA – OLTENITA

From the port of Cernavoda we will visit Constanƫa on the shores of the Black Sea . It’s the oldest continuously inhabited city in Romania , founded back in the 7th century BC by Greek settlers from Anatolia. Nowadays, Constanƫa is a nice touristic town full of beautiful buildings and historical secrets. In the evening we will return to the ship for a gala farewell dinner. Night sail towards the port of Oltenita.

Day 12: OLTENITA – END OF THE TRIP

Today our Danube river cruise comes to an end. From Oltenita you can transfer to Bucharest and take a flight home or continue a private land tour of Romania . There is still a lot to see in this interesting country, home of Dracula and numerous painted monasteries of Bucovia.

This Danube River Cruise has weekly departures from April to October. You can take a route from Vienna to the Black Sea or the other way around.

We offer two ship categories:

➨ Standard ship: prices from 2455 EUR per person

➨ Premium ship: prices from 2745 EUR per person

Prices depend on the season, ship category, cabin category and disponibility. To get the final price, please contact our agents at ➨ [email protected] .

THE CRUISE INCLUDES

• 12-day Danube River Cruise in a double cabin of selected category with shower in bathroom
• All meals from dinner the first evening to breakfast on the final day
• Onboard drinks (except for drinks from our special lists)
• Assistance from our onboard multi-lingual host/hostess
• Welcome cocktail
• Gala dinner
• Onboard entertainment
• Travel assistance and repatriation insurance
• All port fees.

NOT INCLUDED

• Drinks from our special lists or drinks ordered during excursions or transfers
• Cancellation insurance
• Baggage insurance
• Transfers/ to and from departure/arrival points
• Optional excursions mentioned in the itinerary
• Personal expenses.

OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS

• Viennese Music Concert
• Guided tour of Vienna and Schoenbrunn Palace
• The high art of Viennese living: music and Viennese cafes
• Guided tour of Bratislava
• Hiking in Bratislava: The Little Carpathians
• Tour of Budapest
• Gellert Baths and Spa
• Traditional evening in Budapest
• Morning in Puszta
• Novi Sad and a walk to the Petrovaradin fortress
• Guided tour of Novi Sad and Sremski Karlovci
• Biking in Belgrade
• Guided tour of Belgrade
• Traditional evening in Belgrade
• Guided tour of Ruse
• The Roussenki Valley and rupestrian churches in Ivanovo
• Day excursion to Bucharest (lunch included)
• Excursion in the Danube Delta
• Delta Danube on a speed boat
• Trip to Constanta (lunch included)

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Our destinations.

➨ Travel to Slovenia ➨ Travel to Croatia ➨ Travel to Montenegro ➨ Travel to Bosnia ➨ Travel to Serbia ➨ Travel to N. Macedonia ➨ Travel to Albania ➨ Travel to Romania ➨ Travel to Bulgaria

Types of trips

➨ Tailor-made trips ➨ Cultural tours ➨ City Breaks ➨ Escorted Tours ➨ Hiking & Cycling Trips ➨ Fly & Drive Trips ➨ Unique Experiences ➨ Small Ship Cruises

[email protected] 00386 40 935 093 Litijska 43, Ljubljana, Slovenia

Terms and conditions

Danube Delta River Cruises

River cruises between exciting cities and unspoilt nature

A world of wonders: The Danube Delta. Experience wonderful landscapes on the A-ROSA cruises along the Danube with many exciting cities. Experience an unforgettable cruise with A-ROSA.

The Danube Delta is considered one of the most beautiful and popular travel destinations in Europe. No wonder, then, that the Danube really is the most beautiful and exciting way to reach the Black Sea.

The A-ROSA cruise ship sets sail past countryside and large cliffs and past the cities of  Vienna ,  Budapest ,  Bucharest  and our secret tip,  Belgrade . Along the way you will also get to know the World Heritage Site Wachau, situated not far from Vienna. There are endlessly beautiful photo scenes on these Danube Delta cruises, many of which will be a lasting memory.

A-ROSA SERVICE CENTER

We are happy to assist you!

Mon - Sat 9AM-6PM

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Danube Classics 2025

Seine Panorama 2025

Paris is sparkling like the stars in the sky..

From Paris to Rouen, Le Havre, Caudebec-en-Caux, Les Andelys, Vernon and La Roche-Guyon to Paris.

Seine Rendez-vous with Paris 2025

Rhine New Year's 2024 - BASIC

On a-rosa alea & a-rosa clea.

From Cologne to Cruising Day, Strasbourg (Kehl), Basel, Speyer, Rüdesheim and Koblenz to Cologne.

from  € 896  pp

from  € 655  pp

Rhine New Year's 2024

from  € 1,847  pp

Rhine Christmas Strasbourg 2024 - BASIC

from  € 902  pp

from  € 1,703  pp

Rhine Christmas Frankfurt 2024 - BASIC

from  € 768  pp

from  € 1,269  pp

Rhine Christmas City Experience 2024

from  € 1,897  pp

Southern Rhine Experience 2024

From Cologne to Rüdesheim, Germersheim (Speyer), Breisach, Basel, Strasbourg (Kehl), Mainz and Koblenz to Cologne.

from  € 1,946  pp

Premium All-Inclusive | cabin D

Rhine Experience Amsterdam & Rotterdam 2024

From Cologne to Amsterdam, Rotterdam, Antwerp and Cruising Day to Cologne.

from  € 1,346  pp

Premium All-Inclusive | cabin C

Rhine Experience Netherlands & Belgium 2024

from  € 1,596  pp

Rhine Experience IJsselmeer 2024

From Cologne to Willemstad, Huizen, Enkhuizen, Hoorn, Nijmegen and Wesel to Cologne.

from  € 918  pp

Rhine Metropolises 2024

Seine Experience the Normandy 2024

from  € 596  pp

Rhône Route Classique 2024 - A-ROSA STELLA

From Lyon to Chalon-sur-Saône, Mâcon, Trévoux, Lyon, Châteauneuf-du-Pape, Avignon, Arles, Viviers and Le Pouzin to Lyon.

from  € 996  pp

Rhône Route Classique 2024 - A-ROSA LUNA

From Lyon to Mâcon, Chalon-sur-Saône, Tournus, Lyon, Arles, Avignon, Viviers and La Voulte to Lyon.

Rhône Route Rendez-Vous 2024

Douro Experience 2024

Danube Classics Vienna 2024

From Vienna to Esztergom, Budapest, Bratislava, Krems, Melk and Engelhartszell (Passau) to Vienna.

Danube Discovery 2024

Rhine Christmas Markets 2024 - BASIC

from  € 454  pp

Rhine Enchanting Christmas Markets 2024 - BASIC

from  € 668  pp

from  € 2,397  pp

Moselle Discovery 2024 - BASIC

Rhine Legends 2024 - BASIC

from  € 446  pp

Rhine Mini Cruise Netherlands 2024 - BASIC

from  € 354  pp

from  € 1,119  pp

Southern Rhine Experience 2024 - BASIC

Basic Fullboard | cabin D

from  € 899  pp

Rhine Enchanting New Year's 2024 - BASIC

From Cologne to Rüdesheim, Speyer, Mainz, Frankfurt, Koblenz and Bonn to Cologne.

from  € 1,096  pp

Rhine Metropolises 2024 - BASIC

from  € 546  pp

Moselle Romance 2024 - BASIC

From Cologne to Treis-Karden, Bernkastel-Kues, Trier-Mehring, Cochem and Koblenz to Cologne.

Rhine Enchanting Christmas 2024 - BASIC

Danube New Year's 2024 - BASIC

From Engelhartszell (Passau) to Vienna, Bratislava, Budapest and Cruising Day to Engelhartszell (Passau).

from  € 1,296  pp

Rhine Christmas Dream 2024 - BASIC

from  € 868  pp

Danube Enchanting New Year's 2024 - BASIC

From Engelhartszell (Passau) to Cruising Day, Budapest, Vienna, Dürnstein and Linz to Engelhartszell (Passau).

from  € 348  pp

Rhine Experience Amsterdam & Rotterdam 2024 - BASIC

from  € 796  pp

Danube Classics Vienna 2024 - BASIC

Danube Christmas Dream 2024 - BASIC

From Engelhartszell (Passau) to Dürnstein, Vienna, Bratislava and Melk to Engelhartszell (Passau).

Danube Enchanting Christmas 2024 - BASIC

Danube Enchanting Christmas Markets 2024 - BASIC

Danube Christmas 2024 - BASIC

Danube Christmas Markets 2024 - BASIC

Moselle Romance 2024

from  € 1,597  pp

from  € 1,997  pp

Rhône Route Classique 2024 - A-ROSA LUNA - BASIC

from  € 696  pp

Rhône Route Classique 2024 - A-ROSA STELLA - BASIC

Rhône Route Rendez-Vous 2024 - BASIC

from  € 568  pp

Seine Experience the Normandy 2024 - BASIC

Danube Discovery 2024 - BASIC

Rhine Experience IJsselmeer - BASIC

Towards the ijsselmeer – the largest lake in the netherlands.

Danube Classics 2024 - BASIC

from  € 946  pp

Rhine City Experiences 2024 - BASIC

Basic Fullboard | cabin G

Rhine Mini Cruise Main & Lorelei 2024 - BASIC

Rhine Experience IJsselmeer

Rhine Culinary Highlights 2024

A journey to delight the senses. on the river. and at the table..

From Cologne to Cochem, Koblenz, Nierstein, Mainz, Oestrich-Winkel, Rüdesheim, Boppard and Bonn to Cologne.

from  € 2,647  pp

from  € 969  pp

from  € 599  pp

Rhine New Year's City Experience 2024

From Cologne to Rotterdam, Antwerp, Dordrecht, Amsterdam and Cruising Day to Cologne.

from  € 2,547  pp

Rhine Christmas City Experience 2024 - BASIC

from  € 1,697  pp

Rhine New Year's Dream 2024

from  € 2,447  pp

Rhine Enchanting New Year's 2024

from  € 1,419  pp

from  € 805  pp

from  € 1,099  pp

Danube New Year's 2024

Danube New Year's Dream 2024

From Engelhartszell (Passau) to Cruising Day, Budapest, Bratislava, Vienna, Dürnstein and Linz to Engelhartszell (Passau).

Danube Enchanting New Year's 2024

€ 200 pp SUPER EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT

Douro Culinary Highlights 2024

From Porto to Régua, Pinhão, Vega Terron, Barca d'Alva, Pinhão, Régua, Bitetos and Cais da Lixa to Porto.

SUPER EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT € 200 pp

from  € 2,149  pp

Danube Christmas Dream 2024

from  € 1,899  pp

from  € 1,797  pp

Danube Mini Cruise Cities & Nature 2024 - BASIC

from  € 318  pp

Seine Experience Normandy with Paris 2025

From the Blue Danube to the Black Sea

VIENNA - BRATISLAVA - BUDAPEST - KALOCSA - NOVI SAD - BELGRAD - The Iron Gates - RUSE - GIURGIU - CERNAVODA - Danube-Black Sea Canal - CONSTANTA - CERNAVODA - OLTENITA

From the Iron Gates to the Danube Delta, admire the majestic blue river, crossing 8 countries and stopping in 4 capitals. You will discover tremendous landscapes of striking beauty where nature is queen. From Belgrade to Vienna via Bratislava and Budapest, discover unique architecture, history and culture all along the beautiful Danube.

CRUISE HIGHLIGHTS

• Discover 6 countries and diverse cultures
• The valley along the Rusenski Lom River and the fascinating rock-hewn churches of Ivanovo
• Ruse, one of the largest Bulgarian ports—a perfect blend of Bulgarian, Romanian, and Austrian cultures
• Constanta, a multi-cultural seaside city

THE CROISIEUROPE DIFFERENCE

• All meals included - DRINKS INCLUDED with meals and at the bar
• Refined French cuisine - Gala dinner and evening - Welcome cocktail
• Free Wi-Fi onboard
• Headsets are included for excursions
• Official welcome from the captain and crew
• Onboard activities
• Travel assistance and repatriation insurance
• All port fees included

Experience the Iron Gates and the spectacle of the canyons between the Carpathian Mountains and the Balkan Peninsula

Passengers are welcome to board our ship at 6:00 p.m. After comfortably settling into your cabins, we'll introduce our crew at a welcome cocktail. In this evening, join us on an e xcursion for both packages: Viennese concert (subject to availability.)  

Join us for the excursions proposed: CLASSIC : Guided visit of Schönbrunn Palace and with its magnificent park, the former summer residence of the Emperor of Austria and his family. DISCOVERY: The high art of Viennese living: Music and Viennese cafes. We'll stroll through the city and visit back stage in the Konzerthaus concert hall(1). After our tour, enjoy a steaming cup of Vienna Coffee and a delicious pastry. After our visits, we'll begin to cruise to Bratislava. Join us for the excursions proposed: CLASSIC : Guided Tour of Bratislava and Tasting of Local Delights. DISCOVERY : Hiking in Bratislava: The Little Carpathians. From Devin Castle, we'll take in the splendid view of Bratislava. We'll return on board and cruise to Budapest.

We'll arrive in Budapest. Join us on an excursion for both packages: Guided tour of Budapest, once two distinct cities that united only in 1873. Buda, on one bank with its rolling hills and valleys; and Pest, on the other, with its flatter landscape that offers a panoramic view over the banks of the Danube. Both are on the UNESCO World Heritage List. The afternoon is free to do as you please. Join us on an excursion : Discover Gellert baths and spa (not included in the packages) or Budapest Market Halls  (not included in the packages). In the evening, join us on an excursion for both packages: evening of traditional entertainment in Budapest. Our ship will cruise through the night.

We'll arrive in Kalocsa. Join us on an excursion for both packages: Visit the Puszta, the Pannonian steppe grasslands. We'll enjoy a horse show. After we return on board, we continue towards Mohacs and Novi Sad. Our ship will cruise through the night.

We'll arrive in Novi Sad. Join us for the excursions proposed: CLASSIC : Guided visit of Novi Sad, the industrial and financial center of the Serbian economy and a major cultural center. DISCOVERY : Novi Sad and a walk to the Petrovaradin fortress. We'll leave the ship for an energetic walk to the Petrovaradin Fortress. We'll stroll along the riverfront before climbing the 200 steps up to the fortress. The view from the fort is splendid, and we'll enjoy a snack during our hike. Our ship will begin to cruise to Belgrade. The afternoon will be spent cruising, before arriving in the Serbian capital in the evening. In the evening, join us on an excursion for both packages: Evening of traditional entertainment in Belgrade.

Join us for the excursions proposed: CLASSIC : Guided tour of Belgrade. Known for its high cultural influence during the Turkish occupation, the city charms us with its Eastern, Slavic and Austrian heritage. The lively Terazije Square is considered the heart of the city. DISCOVERY : Biking in Belgrade. You'll cycle along the history-filled streets with your guide, who'll explain the city's recent past from World War II to current times. The afternoon will be spent cruising to Donji Milanovac.

The entire day will be spent cruising on the Danube. Our ship will pass through the Iron Gates, the gorge on the Danube that forms part of the boundary between Serbia and Romania. It was called "The Cauldrons” by ancient sailors, since the water, held tightly between two steep cliffs, seems to be boiling. On the Serbian bank of the river, we'll catch a glimpse of the Tabula Traiana - a marble plaque honoring the Roman Road that once linked Rome to the province of Dacia.

We'll arrive in Ruse. Join us on an excursion for both packages: Tour of the canyon-shaped valley along the Rusenski Lom River, and the Rock-hewn Churches of Ivanovo, a group of monolithic churches, chapels and monasteries hewn out of solid rock. Join us on an excursion for both packages: Tour of Ruse. Enjoy dinner and an evening of traditional entertainment on board.

Our ship will cruise to Giurgiu. Join us on an excursion for both packages: Guided tour of Bucharest. Bucharest offers a striking combination of architectural styles: Curtea Veche, the ruins of a 15th-century palace built during the rule of Vlad III Dracula, orthodox churches, Empire-style manor houses, Communist-inspired architecture, and the Parliament (outside only - entrance fees not included). We'll return on board in Fetesti Cernavoda. Enjoy an evening of dancing.

Morning sailing on the Danube-Black Sea Canal. The completion of the Danube-Black Sea Canal is a colossal work in the history of Communism in Romania and Eastern Europe. Late morning arrival in Constanta. Excursion for both packages: guided tour of Constanta and local wine tasting. Folklore evening on board.

A day's sailing on the Danube-Black Sea Canal. Construction began in the 1950s and the canal was inaugurated in 1984, making it the third longest in the world after the Suez and Panama canals. Take advantage of this day to relax on the sun deck and take part in the activities on board. Gala evening on board. Night sail to Oltenita.

We'll arrive early in the morning in Oltenita. Enjoy one last buffet breakfast on board before disembarking at 9:00 a.m. End of our services.

Sales Useful info

Included : What you need to know before your departure

Not included Useful info

• Child discount (2-9 years) : - 20%

Shore Excursions

Mandatory information

Formalities Some administrative formalities to take into account in order to prepare your trip

For the safety of our passengers, the captain and crew of the boat may decide to modify the navigational itinerary.

(1) The tour of the Konzerthaus might be replaced by a tour of the Musikverein or the opera if it is booked for shows or not available.PAS DANS ASIPAS DANS ASI

Alcohol can be harmful to your health. Please drink in moderation.

• Expeditions
• Complimentary Brochures

Danube River Cruises

Coursing through Germany, Austria, Hungary and seven other countries all the way to the Black Sea, the Danube is the soul of Central Europe. Join us along these culture-rich banks, whose scenic vineyards, ancient monasteries and elegant cities have inspired travelers for centuries.

Grand European Tour

• PRICE & BUILD

Romantic Danube

Danube Waltz

Passage to Eastern Europe

Capitals of Eastern Europe

European Sojourn

NEW! Treasures of the Danube

Christmas on the Danube

Danube Christmas Delights

Highlights of danube river cruises.

A Danube River cruise unveils Europe’s rich and dramatic history. Glittering cultural capitals, lush vineyards, magnificent monasteries and endless scenic splendor line the river’s banks. Here are some sample highlights you will see with Viking:

• Enchanting Passau, set where three rivers meet
• Lush vineyards of the Wachau Valley
• The baroque splendor of Melk Abbey
• Vienna’s elegant architecture
• The splendid Benedictine Abbey of Göttweig
• Scenic beauty of the picturesque Danube Bend
• Budapest’s stunning Chain Bridge and Parliament Building
• Soaring cliffs of the scenic Iron Gate
• Romania’s rural culture and rich folklore
• Belgrade’s impressive Kalemegdan Fortress

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2024-2027 RIVER CRUISE AND AIR FARES:  Offer applies to bookings made from September 1-30, 2024. Terms & conditions for select promotions may vary. $25 deposit is applicable to all River itineraries. Special fares plus up to FREE International airfare valid on select departures of Grand European Tour, Lyon Provence & the Rhineland, European Sojourn and Capitals of Eastern Europe, Paris to the Swiss Alps, Cities of Light, London, Paris & D-Day, Rhine & Main Explorer . Airfares may vary on other gateways & departures. Airfare does not have to be purchased to get cruise\cruisetour offer. All prices are in US dollars and for US residents only. Additional restrictions may apply. 2024 : Pay in full by September 30, 2024 or at time of booking if within 120 days of departure. 2025 : Pay in full by October 31, 2024. 2026 : Pay in full by April 30, 2025. 2027 : Pay in full by January 15, 2026. Offers expires September 30, 2024.

$25 DEPOSIT:  For itineraries 35 days or less, a $25 deposit applies to February 2025 & onward departures; for itineraries greater than 35 days, a $25 deposit applies to April 2025 & onward departures; World Cruise products excluded; call for details.

AIR UPGRADE:  Upgrade to Premium Economy air from $799 per person or Business Class air from $3,499 per person based on select gateways and dates. Additional airline-imposed baggage charges may apply; for more information visit  Airline Luggage Restrictions  . Air prices are per person based on cruise/cruisetour check-in date and include transfers plus all government taxes/fees of approximately $160 and air fuel surcharges. Air seats are limited; airfares are subject to change and are not guaranteed until full payment of air is received. For more information about customized air services and US gateways, visit the Viking Air Plus page.

GENERAL RESTRICTIONS:  Cruise fares listed are cruise only in U.S. dollars, per person, based on double occupancy. Single supplement savings are off applicable rates. Cruise fares listed are valid for U.S. residents only. All fares and offers are for new bookings only and are subject to availability, may not combinable with other offers except Viking Explorer Society Travel Credits and Viking Referral Rewards, are capacity-controlled and may be withdrawn at any time without prior notice. Special fares are based upon published full brochure fares; cruise fares do not include pre-paid charges, optional facilities, and personal charges, as defined in the terms and conditions of the  Passenger Ticket Contract  which may be viewed elsewhere on this website. Full brochure fares may not have resulted in actual sales in all stateroom categories and may not have been in effect during the last 90 days. Promotional fares may remain in effect after the expiration date. Air promotion applies to roundtrip flights only from select Viking Cruises U.S. gateways and includes airport-to-ship or hotel transfers, air taxes and air fuel surcharges. Roundtrip airport transfers are included when air is purchased with a cruise or cruisetour package; if air is not purchased from Viking, transfers may be purchased separately. All transfers must be in conjunction with a Viking-purchased cruise, cruisetour, land extension or extra hotel nights. Viking reserves the right to correct errors or omissions and to change any and all fares at any time. For up-to-date prices, please call Viking or your Travel Agent. Additional terms and conditions may apply. Complete terms and conditions may be found in the  Passenger Ticket Contract .

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NOTE: U.S. flights depart one day prior to check-in date. Paid Business or Premium Economy Class may require travel in economy on flights within North America or Europe. Premium economy is limited to specific airlines and we may not be able to accommodate based on aircraft type and availability. Roundtrip airport transfers are included when air is purchased with a cruise or cruisetour package; if air is not purchased from Viking, transfers may be purchased separately. All transfers must be in conjunction with a Viking-purchased cruise, cruisetour, land extension or extra hotel nights. Air prices are per person based on cruise/cruisetour check-in date and include transfers plus all government taxes/fees of approximately $160 and air fuel surcharges. Air seats are limited; airfares are subject to change and are not guaranteed until full payment of air is received.

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From the Blue Danube to the Black Sea (port-to-port cruise) (from Vienna to Oltenita)

• River Cruise
• Fully Guided

Canada • Traveled in April 2024

Places You’ll See

• Explore Schönbrunn Palace and its park
• Attend a traditional Viennese concert
• Tour Budapest and the historic Danube banks
• Witness a horse show on the Puszta grasslands
• Discover the rock-hewn churches of Ivanovo
• Introduction
• Day 1 VIENNA
• Day 2 VIENNA - BRATISLAVA
• Day 3 BUDAPEST
• Day 4 KALOCSA - NOVI SAD
• Day 5 NOVI SAD - BELGRAD
• Day 6 BELGRAD
• Day 7 The Iron Gates
• Day 9 RUSE - GIURGIU - CERNAVODA
• Day 10 CERNAVODA - Danube-Black Sea Canal - CONSTANTA
• Day 11 CONSTANTA - CERNAVODA - OLTENITA
• Day 12 OLTENITA

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What's Included

• Accommodation
• Additional Services

Operated by

CroisiEurope River Cruises

Number of tours

1 to 99 years old

Response time

Response rate

When river cruising was a privilege for the wealthy, CroisiEurope developed an affordable cruising concept offering the best value in river cruises at great prices, and appealing to every traveler. This was possible thanks to our involvement in all the steps: from the simple idea to the...

Sustainability Initiatives

Reduce Carbon Emissions

Supporting Destinations

Your Peace of Mind Options

Cancellation policy.

A transparent overview of applicable fees.

CroisiEurope River Cruises Ship

Customer Reviews

• Overall Rating Excellent 4.5
• Itinerary Excellent 4.5
• Guide Excellent 5.0
• Transport Excellent 4.5
• Accommodation Excellent 4.5
• Food Excellent 5.0
• Tour Operator CroisiEurope River Cruises 4.3
• DP David · 7th May 2024 Great time. Staff were awesome. Food excellent. Trip date: April 2024

Dates & Availability

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• Upcoming departures
• August 2025
• September 2025
• Monday 21 Apr, 2025 Friday 2 May, 2025 English Multiple Room Types MS Vivaldi €2,540 Book Online Hold space for 48h
• Tuesday 13 May, 2025 Saturday 24 May, 2025 English Multiple Room Types MS Vivaldi €2,939 Book Online Hold space for 48h
• Tuesday 27 May, 2025 Saturday 7 Jun, 2025 English Multiple Room Types MS L’Europe €2,665 Book Online Hold space for 48h
• Friday 20 Jun, 2025 Tuesday 1 Jul, 2025 English Multiple Room Types MS Vivaldi €2,939 Book Online Hold space for 48h
• Thursday 3 Jul, 2025 Monday 14 Jul, 2025 English Multiple Room Types MS L’Europe €2,515 Book Online Hold space for 48h
• Wednesday 16 Jul, 2025 Sunday 27 Jul, 2025 English Multiple Room Types MS Vivaldi €2,729 Book Online Hold space for 48h
• Friday 25 Jul, 2025 Tuesday 5 Aug, 2025 English Multiple Room Types MS L’Europe €2,439 Book Online Hold space for 48h
• Thursday 7 Aug, 2025 Monday 18 Aug, 2025 English Multiple Room Types MS Vivaldi €2,729 Book Online Hold space for 48h
• Saturday 16 Aug, 2025 Wednesday 27 Aug, 2025 English Multiple Room Types MS L’Europe €2,515 Book Online Hold space for 48h
• Tuesday 2 Sep, 2025 Saturday 13 Sep, 2025 English Multiple Room Types MS Vivaldi €2,939 Book Online Hold space for 48h

What our customers ask about this tour

Specific cruises and tours during Christmas or December are available. Please inquire for available options during these times.

We cater to specific dietary needs. Please provide details of your requirements when you book.

Credit card payments are accepted and there are no additional charges imposed by us for using this payment method.

Confirmation of your booking will be sent to your email once all necessary details are processed and payment is received.

Booking can be initiated on our website where you can select your tour, departure date, and room type. Then proceed to payment to confirm your spot.

Drinks may be included depending on the cruise package you choose. Please check the specific details of your cruise for inclusion.

You can check in at the designated boarding area for your cruise. Boarding times and locations will be provided prior to your departure date.

Airport transfer services can be included in your package upon request. Please specify your needs when booking or via the Ask a Question button.

Yes, quotes for solo occupancy are available. Please provide your preferred room type and travel dates.

Yes, some cruises include port taxes, drinks, and excursions in the overall pricing. Details can vary, so please check your specific cruise details.

Good to Know

• Currencies € Euro Austria лв. Bulgarian Lev Bulgaria Ft Forint Hungary

As a traveller from USA, Canada, England, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa you will need an adaptor for types C, E, F.

• These are only indications, so please visit your doctor before you travel to be 100% sure.
• Tick-borne encephalitis - Recommended for Austria, Hungary and Slovakia. Ideally 6 months before travel.
• Hepatitis A - Recommended for Bulgaria, Hungary, Serbia, Slovakia and Romania. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
• Tuberculosis - Recommended for Bulgaria and Romania. Ideally 3 months before travel.
• Hepatitis B - Recommended for Bulgaria, Hungary, Serbia, Slovakia and Romania. Ideally 2 months before travel.
• Typhoid - Recommended for Romania. Ideally 2 weeks before travel.
• Unfortunately we cannot offer you a visa application service. Whether you need a visa or not depends on your nationality and where you wish to travel. Assuming your home country does not have a visa agreement with the country you're planning to visit, you will need to apply for a visa in advance of your scheduled departure.
• Here is an indication for which countries you might need a visa. Please contact the local embassy for help applying for visas to these places.
• For any tour departing before 27th January 2025 a full payment is necessary. For tours departing after 27th January 2025, a minimum payment of 30% is required to confirm your booking with CroisiEurope River Cruises. The final payment will be automatically charged to your credit card on the designated due date. The final payment of the remaining balance is required at least 120 days prior to the departure date of your tour. TourRadar never charges you a booking fee and will charge you in the stated currency.
• The following cards are accepted for "CroisiEurope River Cruises" tours: Visa, Maestro, Mastercard, American Express or PayPal. TourRadar does NOT charge you an extra fee for using any of these payment methods.
• TourRadar can request CroisiEurope River Cruises to hold spaces for you for up to 48 hours without any credit card details.
• TourRadar is an authorised Agent of CroisiEurope River Cruises. Please familiarise yourself with the CroisiEurope River Cruises payment, cancellation and refund conditions .
• Insurance Unless otherwise mentioned, TourRadar does not provide travel insurance. We do however recommend purchasing it through our tried and trusted partner, World Travel Nomads .
• Accessibility Some tours are not suitable for mobility-restricted traveller, however, some operators may be able to accommodate special requests. For any enquiries, you can contact our customer support team , who are ready and waiting to help you.
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Welcome to your river cruise along the Danube

Between the black forest and the black sea.

Experience a “Not So Average” European tour from Vienna to the Black Sea.

Embark on a memorable river cruise filled with history, culture, and natural beauty.

June 14, 2023

3 minute read

Have you ever thought about discovering a new side of Europe… by boat? How about a 10-night cruise from Austria to Romania? Hop aboard and be immersed in a coastal wonderland as you traverse seven different countries all on one beautiful river cruise. Every nautical mile traveled is guaranteed a breathtaking view, and aboard the Amadeus Brilliant – a private 4-star ship and a place to call home for a 1,200-mile journey along the Danube – you’ll be floating in luxury. Along the way, regain your land-legs as you explore famous capital cities in Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria and Romania. When on board, amenities like all-inclusive meals and private rooms are yours to help recharge for the day.

Not Your Average European Tour

This isn’t just any trip to Europe. It’s a European river cruise! Discover five world-famous capital cities—Vienna, Budapest, Bratislava, Belgrade and Bucharest—all the while peacefully sleeping through each mile traveled in-between. Learn the history behind the Iron Gates as you pass by the narrow gorge that separates Serbia from Romania. Along the way witness ancient Constanta and the breathtaking Danube Delta – the second largest river delta in Europe and a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Curated for the Culturally Curious

A cruise along the Danube River is packed with cultural experiences. From a lively night tour of Vienna and a Jewish heritage tour in Budapest, to a scenic ride through Croatia, and the famous golden sand beaches of the Black Sea – there’s no better place to immerse yourself in new discoveries. A highlight in Croatia’s Kopački Rit Nature Park is the opportunity to visit a typical rural house to learn about traditional fishing tools used by local fishermen. Don’t forget your sense of humor because these fishermen have some very amusing stories to tell.

Get Comfortable and Stay a While

Step aboard your 4-star ship and spend 10 luxurious days cruising the incomparable Danube as you hop from one amazing city to the next. This means more time to relax and explore, and less time spent packing, unpacking, and lugging your things around from hotel to hotel. And did we mention unlimited wine with every dinner on board the Amadeus Brilliant? How about the folklore show as you cruise through Budapest? Don’t forget about the private rooms. Unpack just once and let the experts guide you the rest of the way.

It's no secret that a private luxury cruise ship would be an ideal way to travel through Europe – so what are you waiting for? Take advantage of a 2 for 1 deal when purchasing a double cabin, or 25% off for singles . Your dream journey awaits.

Let’s cruise the Danube to the Black Sea.

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Program Overview

To see more about day, click on any of the Day by Day buttons

• Exclusively chartered, 13-day voyage featuring two nights in Bucharest, Romania, and a 9-night luxury cruise along the fabled Danube River—one of the greatest river journeys in the world.
• Visit seven countries (Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Bulgaria, and Romania) and five capital cities.
• Experience the best of Eastern Europe on this exclusive land and river itinerary.
• Cruise through the dramatic Iron Gates dividing the Carpathian and Balkan Mountains.
• See the best of Eastern Europe during autumn, an ideal time of year to visit.
• Vienna Pre-Program and Transylvania Post-Program Options.

Start the day on the Buda side of the river to see Castle Hill and visit St. Matthias Church and the Fisherman’s Bastion. In Pest, see the Parliament Building, the second-largest in Europe. At UNESCO‑inscribed Heroes’ Square, admire monuments honoring Magyar chiefs who established the Kingdom of Hungary. Along Andrássy Avenue, see the Hungarian State Opera House and the Chain Bridge that links Pest to Buda.

This evening, after dinner on board the ship, you will see the best of Budapest on a nighttime illumination cruise. Watch the city’s glittering historical landmarks light up the sky as they reflect off the Danube.

Your land tour in Bucharest begins with an authentic lunch at a local restaurant and a visit to the National Art Museum of Romania, located in the 19th-century Royal Palace in Revolution Square.

Check in to the InterContinental Athénée Palace Bucharest .

Today, you will visit the immense Palace of Parliament, the world’s second-largest administrative building, and the National Village Museum. The largest of its kind in Europe, this open-air ethnographic museum features a collection of 50 buildings representing the history and design of Romania’s rural architecture.

Enjoy a Farewell Reception at the hotel this evening.

Dates & Rates

All rates are per person, based on double occupancy. Single supplements waived for solo travelers wishing to reserve in categories C1 & C4! This offer is limited capacity controlled. Once capacity is filled single price goes to 200% of the per person double price and are subject to availability. Port taxes in the amount of $95 per person are included in the prices listed below. Deck plans available upon request.

Stateroom with small panoramic window.  Haydn Deck, midship.

Stateroom with floor-to-ceiling panoramic window that lowers to  French-balcony  height.  Strauss deck, aft.  (limited availability).

Stateroom with floor-to-ceiling panoramic window that lowers to  French-balcony  height.  Strauss deck, aft and midship.  (limited availability).

Stateroom with floor-to-ceiling panoramic window that lowers to  French-balcony  height.  Mozart deck, aft and midship.  (limited availability).

Suite with  private balcony  (sliding glass doors with railing), sofa and bath robes.  Mozart Deck, midship.

Pre / Post - Program

Vienna pre-program option.

Transylvania Post-Program Option

Extend your tour by three nights to explore the treasures of medieval Transylvania. Highlights include the 19th‑century Peles Castle; the imposing, 14th‑century Bran Castle (believed to have inspired the Dracula story); the Black Church in Brasov; the UNESCO World Heritage‑designated Sighisoara; and UNESCO‑inscribed Prejmer, the largest fortified church in southeast Europe. Spend two nights in the Aro Palace in Brasov and one night in the 5‑star InterContinental Athénée Palace Hotel Bucharest .

Pre- and Post-Program Options are available at an additional cost. Details will be provided with your reservation confirmation.

The Pre- and Post-Program Options are available at an additional cost. Details will be provided with your reservation confirmation.

Guest Speaker

Jonna mendez.

A retired CIA intelligence officer, Jonna Hiestand Mendez served as a Chief of Disguise for the agency’s Office of Technical Services. During her 27-year career, her responsibilities included preparing the CIA’s most highly placed foreign assets to gather intelligence using espionage technology and techniques. With expertise in operational disguise and identity transformation, Jonna later focused her efforts in the most difficult and hostile areas, where she and her colleagues matched wits with the Soviet KGB, the East German Stasi and the Cuban DGI. 

Over her career, Jonna has briefed presidents and prime ministers and has lectured extensively. In addition, she and her late husband, Antonio Mendez, co-wrote several books, including “Spy Dust,” “Argo” and “The Moscow Rules.” Her latest book, “In True Face: a Woman’s Life in the CIA, Unmasked,” about her life as a female spy at the height of the Cold War, was published in March 2024.

A recent recipient of the Patriot Award from the Daughters of the American Revolution for “lifelong service to America in the defense of freedom,” Jonna is also a founding Advisory Board member of the International Spy Museum in Washington, D.C.

Accommodations

Amadeus silver iii.

Exclusively Chartered Deluxe River Boat

• Only 84 stylish suites and staterooms, each with a river view. • All meals are included on board the river boat, as well as wine and beer served with lunch and dinner. • Luxury amenities of a stylish deluxe hotel.

Learn more about the Amadeus Silver III >

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Grand Cruise through the heart of Europe to the Black Sea

29 days from only $9,769pp

Price Includes

Useful info, ships available.

Hello 50% off 2026 river cruises

If you book before 15 December , you will get 50% off the brochure price on ALL 2026 river cruises.

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FREE drinks package on all European river cruises

Experience more with so much included.

22 guided tours including some of Europe’s most captivating towns and cities - Budapest, Vienna, Bratislava, Regensburg, Koblenz, Bamberg, Passau, Bucharest, Belgrade, Constanța and many more.

Cruise along the mighty Rhine to charming Boppard then through the spectacular Rhine Gorge to the quintessential wine town of Rüdesheim.

Marvel at the natural beauty of the Danube Delta, Europe’s largest wetlands with UNESCO status, and sail through the impressive Iron Gates Gorge.

Explore Veliko Tarnovo, Arbanasi, the Churches of Ivanovo, Belogradchik Rocks and Mesolithic Lepenski Vir on guided tours.

Enjoy a live classical quartet recital on board, a glassblowing demonstration and multiple musical performances representing the cultures of the countries we are travelling through.

Brace yourself for an epic voyage through the heart of central Europe and into the Balkans along some of its most beautiful waterways - the Rhine, Main and Danube - on our longest ever river cruise.

Our 29-day odyssey through the heart of Europe and beyond is the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. We’ll cruise through seven fascinating countries - Germany, Austria, Hungary, Slovakia, Serbia, Romania and Bulgaria, stopping to see five of Europe’s most beautiful capital cities – Vienna, Bratislava, Budapest, Belgrade and Bucharest - and many captivating riverside towns and villages along the way. Experience an enchanting mix of medieval towns and imperial cities, from the capital of classical music, Vienna, to the quintessentially German Bamberg and the quaint village of Arbanasi and everywhere in between.

From the luxurious comfort of our five-star ship, you can enjoy the sights along the riverbanks. The Rhine has enthralled writers, composers, artists and travelers for centuries, along its banks you’ll spot picturesque towns, castles and, as an extra treat, we’ll sail through the mighty Rhine Gorge. Joining the Main in Mainz, we’ll sail through the heart of quintessential medieval Germany before passing through the Main-Danube Canal. Finally, we cruise 1500 miles of the Danube’s 1770-mile length. Everyday you’ll wake up to new sights - lush vineyards, historic monasteries and elegant cities. We’ll also see the breathtaking views of the Iron Gates and Danube Delta – Europe's largest area of wetlands, the Belogradchik rock formations and the ancient Lepenski Vir archaeological site as we travel all the way to the Black Sea.

This epic adventure across the heart of Europe to the Black Sea is ideal for travelers wanting to see more of Europe than ever before. 

Your Itinerary

• DAY 1 Arrival in Cologne
• DAY 2 Koblenz & Boppard
• DAY 3 Rhine Gorge & Rüdesheim
• DAY 4 Mainz
• DAY 5 Miltenberg & Wertheim
• DAY 6 Würzburg
• DAY 7 Bamberg
• DAY 8 Nuremberg
• DAY 9 Regensburg
• DAY 10 Passau
• DAY 11 Melk
• DAY 12 Vienna
• DAY 13 Bratislava
• DAY 14 Budapest
• DAY 15 Budapest
• DAY 16 Kalocsa or Paprika Museum & Puzsta
• DAY 17 Belgrade
• DAY 18 Iron Gates Gorge
• DAY 19 Pleven
• DAY 20 Bucharest
• DAY 21 Danube Delta
• DAY 22 Constanța
• DAY 23 Veliko Tarnovo, Arbanasi & Ivanovo
• DAY 24 Belogradchik
• DAY 25 Iron Gates Gorge & Lepenski Vir
• DAY 26 Novi Sad
• DAY 27 Vukovar & Osijek
• DAY 28 Budapest
• DAY 29 Return home

Arrival in Cologne

The adventure begins in Cologne’s picturesque centre where your ship awaits in preparation for this epic voyage of discovery. Step on board to the warmest of welcomes from the friendly crew, on hand to assist as you settle into your luxurious cabin and familiarise yourself with the ship.   

Koblenz & Boppard

Our adventure begins! And what an adventure this promises to be. Awake to the gentle lapping of the water and the colourful valley sides effortlessly slipping past as we arrive into historic Koblenz, where the immense Ehrenbreitstein Fortress stands guard over the mighty confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers.  

This morning you’ll enjoy your first guided walk through the winding streets and charming little squares of its quaint old town.

During a relaxed lunch we will cruise to Boppard, ‘Pearl of the Rhine’ for a guided tour. Glistening on a sweeping meander, it’s one of the prettiest jewels in the Rhineland’. A jumble of little boats jostles in the stone quayside, against a backdrop of cobbled streets and quirky half-timbered houses.   

Its Roman walls, reputed to be the finest in Germany are not to be missed and we will have the chance to delve into its fascinating Roman past on our guided walk, seeing the 4th-century fortress, reputedly the best-preserved in the country. You’ll also see the St Severin Church, with its heavenly stained glass and amble through its marketplace, encircled by colourful facades.   

This evening delight in the upbeat sounds of Rhenish folk music with a live performance on traditional instruments. We’ll moor in Boppard overnight. 

Included experience

Guided tours of Koblenz, Boppard & live folk music performance.

Rhine Gorge & Rüdesheim

Today will surely be one of the highlights of your cruise. Prepare to be wowed by the infamous passage through the Rhine Gorge where the river squeezes between mammoth valley sides towering 600 feet above. Head up on deck for some castle-spotting – you’ll find ancient ruins which once held sway over passing mariners crowning every tortuous turn. Our skilful captain manoeuvres our ship past rocky outcrops on twisting bends to the famous Lorelei or ‘murmuring rock’ where enchanting maidens lured unsuspecting sailors to watery graves. Or so the legend goes!  

After the thrills of the river scenery, there’s a change of pace at our next stop, Rüdesheim, a quintessentially chocolate-box Rhine wine town enveloped by neat vineyards and gentle slopes. (There’s plenty of opportunity to sample the local produce in the town’s cosy taverns too.)   

This afternoon’s guided tour will take you on a walk through the heart of the old town; you’ll be charmed by the Klunkhardshof, a perfectly half-timbered building dating back to the 16th century – once forming part of the town’s fortifications - and for music lovers, there’s a treat in store with an optional visit to the 15th-century Brömserhof, housing Siegfried’s Mechanical Museum with its quirky ensemble of musical instruments. 

Cruise through Rhine Gorge & guided tour of Rüdesheim.

Embark on a morning of exploration as we set sail on a short cruise to the town of Mainz, nestled at the confluence of the Rhine and Main Rivers. During our walking tour of this illustrious Roman city with a history spanning over 450 years, you’ll come face to face with some of its finest treasures, including its Roman amphitheatre, the largest north of the Alps. Delve into the history of Saint Martin’s Cathedral and Saint Stephen’s Church, its interior bathed in the luminous glow of blue light streaming through intricate stained glass, a masterpiece by renowned artist, Marc Chagall.  

As you amble through the labyrinthine streets of the old town with its web of little streets and half-timbered houses, you’ll be amazed by this river port city’s rich heritage of Roman Catholic monuments, including the imposing Cathedral. Witness the architectural marvel of the 13-foot sandstone 'Heunensäule,' an ancient monument dating back to 1,000 AD, and if markets are your thing, then the main square is the place to head for a slice of local life.  

Mainz is understandably proud of its most celebrated son, Johannes Gutenberg, the visionary behind modern printing. You’ll find a museum that houses a reconstruction of Gutenberg's workshop and two original 1455 Gutenberg Bibles, cherished as among the earliest books ever printed.  

Later this afternoon, we’ll set sail up the Main River. Due to locks and low bridges, the main part of the sun deck bids a temporary farewell between Frankfurt and Nuremberg. The other outside areas in front of the lounge, the Riverview Kitchen and the lower section of the sun deck remain accessible, so you’ll still be able to take in the scenery.  We’ll sail overnight to Miltenberg.

Guided tour of Mainz.

Miltenberg & Wertheim

There’s magical landscapes on view this morning as we drift through dreamy forests en route to Miltenberg. Our guided tour unravels an intriguing history of one of Germany’s best-preserved medieval villages which prospered during the Middle Ages under the protection of its castle, and today as you wander amongst a spectrum of half-timbered facades and frothing Renaissance fountains, you’ll find atmospheric reminders of the past at every turn.   

Our walk unveils one of the most beautiful marketplaces on the Main, the “Schnatterloch”, worthy of a fairytale, encircled by picture-perfect houses, with steeply gabled roofs and peeping windows. You’ll also see the former Waaghaus, the old town hall and the oldest inn in Germany, dating back to the 15th-century. 

During lunch, we’ll cruise around the first of a series of sweeping meanders that characterise the Main River, before an informative talk on the historic craft of glassblowing with a skilful demonstration by an experienced artisan. Perhaps you’ll fancy giving it a try yourself!  

This afternoon we’ll discover the secrets of Wertheim on a walking tour. Overlooked by a ruined castle, what a joy to lose yourself in the winding streets, soaking up the ambience of this spot.  Overnight our ships sails to Würzburg.

Guided tours of Miltenberg, Wertheim & glassblowing demonstration.

Indulge in a leisurely breakfast as we glide towards Würzburg, gracefully presiding at the helm of Germany's Romantic Road - aptly named for its spellbinding mix of medieval charm, palatial grandeur, and daydreamy scenery.   

Where every cobblestone tells a story, Würzburg is a city best discovered on foot. On our walking tour, (consider it a treasure hunt) wander through the neatest streets, taking in the Baroque and Rococo buildings in their ice-cream pastel hues. Crowning the city's architectural tiara is the Residenz that once played home to the prince-bishops. This wasn't just a palace; it had a point to make to other grand palaces of the time (think Vienna and Versailles) and stepping inside this Baroque marvel, you'll feel like you stumbled on to the set of a historical drama!  We’ll return to the ship and settle in for some more scenic cruising, continuing overnight to Bamberg. 

Guided tour of Würzburg.

Relax on board and then after lunch we’ll arrive in Bamberg. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Bamberg stands proudly as one of Europe's preserved gems, holding its own alongside the likes of Prague. It’s a living masterpiece that embarked on its artistic journey in the 11th century when Emperor Heinrich II envisioned a capital city to rival Rome, right here on Bavarian soil.

While Bamberg may not have sprawled like Rome, it boasts a wealth of architectural treasures that could make even the Italian capital blush with envy. Picture a cathedral that commands attention, a town hall that defies convention, casually perched in the middle of the Regnitz River, a network of canals, and the enchanting 'Little Venice,' where former fishermen's houses add a touch of romance. Tucked away in the Old Town's tangled lanes, you’ll find a vast library of medieval buildings recounting stories of a bygone era, and you'll soon understand why Bamberg is a UNESCO favourite.   

Before our chef presents tonight's culinary delights, get acquainted with Bavaria's liquid pride - its legendary beers! During a tasting on board, you’ll have the opportunity to not only savour the rich flavours but also delve into the history and craftsmanship that make Bavaria a beer aficionado's paradise. During tonight’s dinner we set sail once again, joining the Main-Danube canal, and cruise through the night to Nuremberg.

Guided tour of Bamberg & beer tasting.

This morning our journey brings us to Nuremberg, an elegant Bavarian city steeped in complex history. While the city is often synonymous with the dark chapter of the Nazi period, marked by Hitler's pre-war rallies and the international war crimes trials, there's an intriguing layer to its history that often stays in the shadows. Lesser-known is Nuremberg's role as the unofficial capital of Germany's First Reich—the Holy Roman Empire. With its roots dating back to the coronation of Charlemagne in 800 AD, this empire endured for over a millennium, shaping the course of European history.  

This morning, our exploration takes us on a guided tour, and behind its great ramparts, Nuremberg is flecked with a myriad of historic gems. Marvel at the Kaiserburg castle, step into the Craftsmen's Court and discover the timeless allure of the Church of Saint Lawrence. There are surprises to be enjoyed here too; meandering through the Market Square you’ll find an exquisite fountain, resembling a Gothic church spire. This beautiful city will certainly be a source of conversation over lunch after which we’ll set sail for Regensburg, continuing overnight. 

Guided tour of Nuremberg.

This morning we leave the Main–Danube Canal at Kelheim, where we join the Danube River. Our next port of call is Regensburg, formerly an important garrison guarding the most north-westerly point of the Roman Empire whose camp gate, the impressive Porta Praetoria, still knows how to make an entrance! Regensburg was spared war damage and today its historic centre wears its UNESCO World Heritage status with pride.  

This afternoon’s guided tour will reveal the sights of this Bavarian city, from the wealthy merchants’ houses to the Old Town Hall and plenty in between. Stroll along the stone bridge, wonder at the Gothic cathedral and stand in admiration before the Altes Rathaus – the seat of the Diet, or parliament, of the Holy Roman Empire from 1663 to 1806.  

Regensburg calls itself ‘Germany’s medieval miracle’, and it’s hard to argue as you wander along the cobbles and elegant squares of the old town – wishing you had a time machine!  During tonight’s dinner we’ll set sail once again to Passau. 

Guided tour of Regensburg.

As a new day begins, our ship gracefully arrives in Passau, our final German port of call, cradled at the confluence of the Inn and Ilz Rivers and the legendary Danube. Indulge in a lazy breakfast, then enjoy the opportunity to explore the 'Three Rivers City,' framed by the commanding Veste Oberhaus—a 13th-century hilltop fortress that oversees the cityscape. We’ll  embark on a guided tour taking in the old town’s Baroque treasures, including the iconic Saint Stephen's Cathedral, whose exquisite interior resounds with the world's largest organ.

Back on board, be sure to savour the silent views drifting by as we cross into Austria. While the country is synonymous with stunning landscapes, this stretch of the Danube Valley is something of a well-kept secret, with incredible scenery round every bend, so flop onto a sun lounger on deck this afternoon and drink them in as our vessel glides on to Melk.

Guided tour of Passau.

This morning, we're off to explore the Benedictine Abbey, high up on a rocky bluff overlooking Melk. It's quite a sight—this place started as a castle back in the 11th century and during the 18th century evolved into the beautiful monastery you’ll see today. Imagine stunning Baroque architecture, fine rooms, and a library filled with 100,000 valuable books, including some intricate illuminated manuscripts.  

During lunch, we'll cruise through the Wachau Valley, taking in its postcard-worthy scenery. Our next stop will be Vienna, a city which lives and breathes to the sounds of Strauss.

Tonight, the main event will start with the 'Captain's Dinner', featuring a menu inspired by the delicious cuisines we've encountered along the way. After the feast, to celebrate Vienna's musical heritage, you’ll enjoy a special on-board performance by a quartet of talented classical musicians. Because, let's be honest, listening to classical music while sailing down the Danube in the city that practically invented it is just good sense! 

Guided tour of Melk Abbey & live classical recital.

Picture Vienna, and you envision an imperial city, elegantly poised as one of Central Europe's gems that’s often considered the world's most musical metropolis. The mere mention of its name evokes a mix of culture, ornate architecture, lavish cafés, aristocratic palaces, and grand cathedrals, all set to the romantic tunes of the great composers. The former capital of the Habsburg Empire, Vienna held sway over much of Central and Eastern Europe for centuries, leaving an indelible mark until the curtain fell at the end of the First World War.  

Despite its grandeur, Vienna is surprisingly compact. This morning, we’ll dive into the city's rich history with a guided tour. From its 17th-century rise to prominence to the subsequent 200 years that witnessed the construction of galleries, churches, and palaces, it’s clear the Viennese knew how to enjoy the finer things in life. 

At the heart of it all, there's Saint Stephen's Cathedral, boasting a roof that's practically a work of art with its patterns of glazed tiles. Nearby, the Hofburg Palace takes centre stage - a former royal court turned museum haven, housing everything from the Crown Jewels to relics of the Holy Roman Empire. Here, the Vienna Boys' Choir graces audiences with their performances. And let's not forget the famed Spanish Riding School. 

The afternoon is yours to savour the city at your own pace, whether it's browsing the shops, dawdling in the art galleries or cosying up in one of its cafés, you’re sure to be wowed by its grandeur and charm.  Tonight, whilst we dine, we’ll sail to Bratislava. Why not head to the bar for a digestif whilst soaking in the day’s adventures and sharing some stories with fellow travelers.   

Guided tour of Vienna.

This morning, our journey unfolds in Bratislava where we enjoy a guided tour. Slovakia's capital, it’s a city that's shrugged off its communist-era greyness and flaunts its imperial past, now showcased in the restored Baroque Old Town. Saunter down the winding streets to the main square, where the former Old Town Hall plays host to a museum that spills the beans on the city's history. Feeling adventurous? Climb the tower for panoramic views.  

Marvel at the 9th-century castle that presides over the city with vistas across the Danube. Or venture to the neoclassical Primatial Palace, home to the Hall of Mirrors with its collection of 17th-century English tapestries. And for a dose of relaxation, why not enjoy some people-watching in one of the city's many cafés over some homemade lemonade - a local specialty.  

Later this afternoon our cruise reaches a climax as we navigate the Danube Bend on our way to Budapest. Feast your eyes on some of the most incredible views yet as the river weaves through a narrow twisting valley, flanked by mountains and steep hillsides, topped with castle ruins and historic little towns. Simply incredible!

Guided tour of Bratislava.

You rise refreshed in this beautiful imperial capital that straddles the Danube River, and we have so much time to enjoy it to the full. With its castle proudly overseeing the scene, Budapest has earned the title of the ‘Little Paris of Middle Europe,’ and a glance at its skyline of spires and grand domes (all trying to out-soar each other) it’s not hard to see why. Its monuments tell tales of Hungary's national culture intertwined with the influences of foreign powers that have all left their mark on its history, and you’ll find it a captivating city to explore.  

Today Budapest is a collage of Roman ruins, Turkish baths from the Ottoman Empire, palatial buildings, Baroque churches and Art Nouveau architecture and design – all wrapped up in an atmosphere enhanced by the sounds of Hungary’s music and language.   

You’ll really get to know this city on our guided tour of the main sights, including the Parliament Building, a huge neo-Gothic building that commands attention on the riverbank with its striking central dome and soaring spires. You have the rest of the day free to explore at your leisure, and culturally you’re spoilt for choice with the city’s array of museums and art galleries.   

Alternatively, you might want to wander the streets of the Castle District while you enjoy panoramic views of the city or stroll down elegant Andrassy Avenue with its tempting shops. Prepare for a sensory overload at the Central Market Hall, where you can find everything from traditional foods to handicrafts.  We’ll moor in Budapest overnight. 

Guided tour of Budapest.

Today you’ll chart your own course in this city. Whether you're an art enthusiast, foodie, museum-lover or just fancy an unhurried day soaking up the ambience, Budapest’s got something to pique your curiosity.   

Perhaps put some horticulture on the menu with a visit to the Botanical Gardens. Nestled within the heart of Budapest's enchanting landscape, the Füvészkert, is a verdant sanctuary that’s perfect for nature enthusiasts and serenity seekers alike. Tucked away from the city's buzz, stroll the labyrinth of paths admiring the diverse displays, with plants from every corner of the globe, from Asian blooms to the flora of the Mediterranean, in a spectrum of colours and fragrances.   

After so much sightseeing, perhaps you fancy embracing Budapest's thermal bathing culture with a visit to one of the city’s historic bath houses. Bathing here is not merely a leisurely activity, it’s immersion into a centuries-old ritual of relaxation woven into the city's cultural fabric. From the Neo-Baroque grandeur of the Széchenyi Thermal Bath to the Art Nouveau glitz of the Gellért Baths, with its palatial stained glass and mosaic tiles, these aquatic havens are past-masters at the art of rejuvenation so why not give one a try!  

Visit to Budapest.

Kalocsa or Paprika Museum & Puzsta

One of the most thrilling aspects of a cruise is waking up somewhere new, and there’s a real sense of excitement as we explore lands unknown to many until the Iron Curtain lifted. At the crossroads of central Europe, Hungary is an intriguing country - a blend of European elegance and the lingering echoes of the Ottoman Empire.  

Our adventure continues when we arrive in Kalocsa, whose 1,000-year-old lore swirls with tales of warlike bishops, saintly kings, rampaging Ottomans, and Magyar heroes who have all left their mark.  You’ll have a choice as to how you spend the morning. Among Kalocsa’s buildings you’ll discover an impressive Baroque cathedral and the grand Archbishop’s Palace, with its Ceremonial Hall displaying a replica of the Hungarian holy crown.  

You can choose to enjoy a walking tour of the town seeing the sights then enjoy at visit to the Paprika Museum; the region is one of the biggest producers of the seasoning that’s an essential part of Hungarian cuisine – goulash being a famous example. There are many types and strengths of ‘red gold’, but the best variety is said to come from here, due to its rich colour and robust flavour. 

Puszta & Equestrian farm

Alternatively, for those seeking a more immersive experience, a short drive takes us to a paprika house on the outskirts of town where the secrets of paprika production are unveiled before our eyes! From here, our journey leads us on a scenic drive into the Puszta, Hungary's Great Plain—a vast prairie whose haunting atmosphere is etched into the very soul of the Magyar people.  

Stretching as far as the eye can see, the Puszta reveals villages frozen in time, where Hungarian grey cattle, spiral-horned sheep, and buffalo graze on pastures that seem untouched by the modern world. The Puszta is famed for its equestrian heritage, and we find ourselves at an equestrian farm, mesmerizing to watch a performance by some of the region's most skilled riders. Here, you’ll have the opportunity to take a horse-drawn carriage ride and experience this wilderness from a different and memorable perspective. We return to the ship for an afternoon’s sailing

Included experiences

Guided tour of Kalocsa with paprika museum or Puzsta drive with Equestrian farm visit.

This morning we arrive in Belgrade. The only European capital built at the confluence of two rivers, this resilient city has weathered the storms of history, including the tumultuous chapters of the Second World War and the Kosovo War, marked by months of NATO airstrikes.  

Dramatically sited overlooking both rivers is Kalemegdan Park, which includes in its grounds the city’s iconic fortress, a stronghold built by the Celts, expanded by the Romans and besieged over a hundred times during its history – all chronicled in its military museum.   

While history whispers from the fortress walls, Belgrade is a city reborn – a vibrant metropolis with a gaze firmly fixed on the future, where Art Nouveau facades peek through the stark concrete towers of the Communist era. We’ll enjoy a guided tour, seeing all the main sights such as the cathedral, Republic Square and Prince Michael Street with its wealth of 19th-century buildings, some bearing the scars of recent conflicts among their intricate Habsburg ornamentation. After lunch, this fascinating capital, still under the radar of many European travelers, is yours to explore.  

Maybe you’d like to wander the Old Town’s lattice of winding streets, pausing for a welcome drink in one of the grand coffee houses or venture into the bubbling bohemian quarter, where creative talent is reshaping the area into a 21st-century cultural hub.  

On board entertainment

As the evening draws in, relax with a stroll or a drink on the sun deck before tonight’s culinary delights. After dinner tonight we’ll celebrate Serbia's heritage with an on-board music and dance performance from a talented local folk group. We sail overnight on our journey towards the fabled Iron Gate Gorge.

Guided tour of Belgrade & on-board folk music performance.

Iron Gates Gorge

For many, today will be a highlight of the cruise as we begin our passage through the magnificent Iron Gates Gorge. This stretch of the Danube stands out as one of its crowning glories, where the river carves a majestic passage between the Carpathian and Balkan Mountain ranges, delineating the border between Serbia and Romania.  

The ‘true’ Iron Gates is a single narrow gorge, but the name blankets an entire 83-mile stretch of valleys where towering limestone cliffs plunge into the depths below. During the 1960s and ’70s, two hydroelectric power stations were built here, and their dams raised the river level by over 100 feet, submerging several historic settlements.   

We pass through the Great Kazan, literally ‘cauldron’, where the river narrows to just 500 feet. As the Captain skilfully steers our vessel through this stretch, you’ll see the sculpture of a Romanian hero – Decebalus – etched into the rugged rock face above.   

This 1990’s masterpiece, at over 130 feet high, is the largest rock relief in Europe – it even dwarfs the US presidents at Mount Rushmore. Decebalus was the last king of Dacia, the kingdom stretching from the Carpathians to the Black Sea. A warrior through and through, he fought the Roman Empire in three campaigns before the emperor Trajan got the better of him. Decebalus fled into the Carpathians, choosing to take his own life rather than endure captivity.  

On a day like this, the sun deck comes into its own; pull up a sun lounger to watch the scenery drift by or chat over a drink with new friends. You may even find an ice cream being served on the Bow Deck, so sink into a comfy seat and savour these extraordinary views.   

Tonight, the chef presents another menu with the magnificent Gala Dinner. 

Cruise through the Iron Gates Gorge.

By now you’ll have come to appreciate the luxuries on board – little touches from complimentary dressing gowns and slippers to plush carpets in the corridors and the elegant marble-topped bar. Crossing the border into Bulgaria tonight, you awake in Nikopol, a town that echoes with Roman history and after breakfast we set out across the Danubian Plain to Pleven.   

We enjoy a morning tour of the city followed by some free time here. Perhaps visit the St George Chapel Mausoleum or one of the town’s many other museums. Or simply wander the pedestrian-only streets of the Old Town, enjoying the tranquillity.  

During lunch we slip our moorings for an afternoon’s cruising, to Rousse where we moor overnight, so why not enjoy the river breeze up on the sun deck? As the day glides into evening, reconvene with your fellow travelers for an aperitif in the bar. After dinner, there’s still plenty of entertainment in store with a live performance of Bulgarian folk music featuring traditional costumes and instruments. 

Guided tour of Pleven & live on-board folk music show.

From our mooring in Oltenita, we drive to Bucharest to explore this fascinating city. Affectionately termed ‘Little Paris’, echoes of the city’s hedonistic era reminiscent of the 1900s weave through its tree-lined boulevards and belle-époque villas, amidst the stark concrete legacy of Communist rule.  

Dominating Romania’s capital city though, is the Palace of the Parliament, a colossal concrete extravagance commissioned by the Communist dictator, Nicolae Ceausescu. Started in 1984 and still unfinished, it is the second-largest administrative building in the world after the Pentagon – so big that only 400 of the 1,100 rooms are used. This concrete colossus, adorned with opulent embellishments from marble staircases to intricate mosaics and chandeliers, sparks awe and debate alike - deemed a marvel by some, a testament to vanity by others.  

We enjoy a full day excursion and on our guided tour we see the Palace of the Parliament, which really has to be seen to be believed, plus the city’s other main sights, such as the former royal palace – now the national art museum – and the Athenaeum with its fine Baroque cupola and impeccable acoustics. There are also some Orthodox churches and squares, including Revolution Square, named after the 1989 uprising that swept away Ceausescu’s regime.   

Explore the city under your own steam too. With lunch not included, the day offers an opportunity to discover a cozy restaurant serving up traditional delights – perhaps a plate of garlic-infused meatballs, freshly stuffed peppers, or a hearty vegetable and dumpling soup.  

We’ll return to the ship in Fetesti with time to relax before dinner. Perhaps dip into a board game or novel from the library, or treat yourself to a manicure or pedicure at the on-board hair and nail salon.  

Guided tour of Bucharest.

Danube Delta

Overnight we cruise towards the city of Tulcea, clinging to seven hills overlooking the river and regarded as the gateway to the vast Danube Delta on the edge of the Black Sea. Now a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Danube Delta is the best preserved and second largest river delta in Europe, spanning 2,200 square miles of rivers, marshes, tree-fringed lakes and reed islands, where nearly 3,500 animal and fish species, and 1,700 types of plant, make their home. Within this ecological haven, a diverse community thrives, with nearly 3,500 animal and fish species and a staggering 1,700 varieties of plants coexisting.  

A bird-watcher’s paradise, the maze of canals bordered by willows and oaks offers the perfect breeding ground for countless species. Millions of Egyptian white pelicans arrive here every spring to raise their young, while equal numbers of Arctic geese come to escape the Northern European winters. Keep your gaze skyward for the flight of cormorants and white-tailed eagles.   

After lunch, we disembark to take an excursion on smaller boats into the heart of this tranquil place. Our guide helps to point out some of the flourishing flora and fauna – you could spot a  kingfisher or a catfish darting beneath the water’s surface.   

As dusk begins to fall on this magical landscape, we slip our moorings again. Enjoy another delicious dinner, maybe tonight opting for the intimate dining experience in the Riverview Kitchen at the stern – a fitting conclusion to the day. 

Cruise into the Danube Delta.

As we embark on our homeward journey, prepare for a breezy adventure through a region once adorned with windmills. You’ll need to hold onto your hat up on deck as you watch the rocky shoreline drift by, dotted with the occasional ruined fortress.  

We’ll depart from our mooring in Fetesti for the ancient city of Constanța, described by the Roman poet Ovid as ‘the end of the world’ and with a history dating back over 2,500 years. Formerly known as Tomis, legend has it that Jason landed here with the Argonauts after finding the Golden Fleece. Positioned at the crossroads of several trade routes, it became a thriving commercial centre during Roman times and still is today.  

Numerous remains from Greek and Roman times are on display in the city’s archaeological and mosaics museums, the latter housing the largest – an impressive 9,150 square feet – and best-preserved Roman mosaic in the world. Constanța’s landmark is the Art Nouveau casino, with its views of the Black Sea.  

Now unused, it was built by the Romanian King Carol I, who hoped its construction would transform the city into a bathing resort for the elite during the inter-war years, something that never quite transpired. More recently, it became one end of the shortest navigable route between the North and Black Seas when the Main-Danube Canal opened in 1992. With free time on your hands, enjoy an amble through Constanța's streets, take in one of the museums or just drink in the sea breeze on a laid-back stroll by the port. 

Guided tour of Constanța. 

Veliko Tarnovo, Arbanasi & Ivanovo

Veliko tarnovo.

Crossing into Bulgaria, we arrive in Rousse, so-called ‘Little Vienna’- and it really is a scaled-down version of the Austrian capital, with its proud cluster of 19th-century buildings and genteel ambience. A scenic drive brings us to possibly Bulgaria’s most beautiful city – Veliko Tarnovo, the ‘City of the Tsars’ and former capital, located in a rugged landscape entangled by the meanderings of the Yantra River.   

Its Old Town is clustered on three hills with houses stacked on steeply sided valleys, while the remains of the once-impregnable fortress complex stand on Tsarevets Hill. Within the walls of this redoubt are the ruins of the Tsar’s Palace and, at the summit, the Patriarch’s Palace, which includes the Patriarchal Cathedral of the Holy Ascension of God. Much of Veliko Tarnovo was destroyed by the Ottomans, but in the 19th century it became an important trading centre again.   

Tucked away in its cobbled streets are tiny workshops, where you can hear the clanging of copper pots being beaten or watch wooden utensils brought to life by skilful artisans. As you wander, keep an eye out for interesting traditional snacks to try, banitsa comes recommended – a doughy pastry filled with spinach or creamy local cheese.  

Later we head to the village of Arbanasi, set high on a plateau. During Ottoman times, it became a commercial centre for traders and their caravans, crammed with wares bound for places as distant as Italy, Russia and even India. Perhaps visit one of the richly ornamented mansion houses of the period, with their fortress-like stone walls, or the unassuming Church of the Nativity – once inside you’ll be dazzled by the intensely coloured frescoes.   

We end the day with a visit to the Churches of Ivanovo, a complex of churches, chapels and monasteries hewn into the solid rock during the 12th century and with frescoes dating back to the 14th century, so exquisite and historically significant they’re well deserving of their place on the UNESCO World Heritage List.  Before tonight’s dinner is served, we’ll slip our moorings and sail overnight to Vidin. 

Guided visits to Veliko Tarnovo, Arbanasi & Ivanovo.

Belogradchik

Free time sailing.

This morning why not take a cup of coffee up on deck and soak up the spectacular open spaces of this landscape; watch the early mists rising above the woods of fragrant pine and silver fir clinging to the banks.  

After lunch we moor in Vidin, home to the Baba Vidin, the only entirely preserved medieval fortress in the country. From here, we drive into this rugged wilderness and suddenly the horizon is dotted with huge sandstone cliffs, in sunset hues of orange-reds and yellows, eroded into huge, bizarre shapes.   

These are the Belogradchik Rocks – unique and dramatic, they cover an area of 35 square miles, some reaching as high as 600 feet. Many of these natural sculptures are named after people or objects they are thought to resemble, while others are associated with colourful legends.   

After tonight’s gourmet experience on board, head to the lounge with your travelling companions for a well-earnt digestif, while the resident pianist sets a relaxed tone for the rest of the evening.   

Guided visit to the Belogradchik Rocks

Iron Gates Gorge & Lepenski Vir

This morning’s cruising eases us once again into the dramatic panorama of the Iron Gates Gorge, a natural wonder tucked away in Serbia’s Djerdap National Park. Among the park’s forests of ancient oak, hazel and beech lies a rich preserve of game, including deer and wild boar. Mountain goats roam the rocky cliffs of Djerdap Kazan, while elusive bears, wolves, foxes and wildcats populate the dense woodland. Keep an eye out for eagles and falcons, too. Why not enjoy this stretch of the river from a sun lounger on deck or through the panoramic windows in the ship’s lounge?  

Lepenski Vir

This afternoon we’ll moor in Donji Milanovac ready for the short drive to Lepenski Vir, one of the most important archaeological sites in Europe, dating back to 9,500 BC. It consists of a series of Mesolithic villages located on a high terrace overlooking the Danube.  

The wooden houses were laid out in a fan shape and used one of the first types of concrete as their foundations, while their floors were made of sandstone, often covered with limestone plaster and decorated with red and white pigments. Our guided tour spills the secrets of these ancient dwellers and their ingenious lifestyle.  

Captain's Dinner

This evening expectation mounts for the Captain’s Dinner, with an imaginative menu reflecting the countries and regions we have visited. Retire to the bar with your fellow travelers and let the stories flow, as you toast your river adventure! During tonight’s dinner we’ll depart for Novi Sad. 

Guided visit to Lepenski Vir.  

The numerous fortresses scattered along the Danube will remind us of the numerous conflicts and power struggles the area has witnessed and early this morning we pass one of the most impressive – the medieval Smederevo Fortress so if you are an early riser have your camera at the ready! 

After a lazy morning, we moor in Novi Sad, Serbia’s second-largest city, the Fruska Gora mountains providing a scenic backdrop, with slopes terraced with vineyards. The climate and the proximity to the Danube make this region ideal for wine production, Riesling taking the lead, but Bermet, a dessert wine with a vermouth twist, also steals the show.  

Enjoy a guided tour of this city which flourished during the 18th and 19th centuries, becoming known as the ‘Athens of Serbia’. See its old Town Hall on the impressive main square, flanked by 19th-century architecture, its castle and synagogue, whilst towering over it all is the mighty Petrovaradin Fortress with its complex maze of underground tunnels. The minute and hour hands of its iconic clock face are reversed, supposedly so that fishermen could still tell the time at a distance. You can learn more about the fortress and its history at its museum. 

On board music

We will moor here this evening, and after dinner, you’ll be treated to a dash of Serbian musical tradition as a professional pianist and violinist perform popular melodies under the stars.  

Guided tour of Novi Sad & live on-board musical performance.

Vukovar & Osijek

Today we cross into Croatia and stop in Vukovar, the country’s largest river port. Perfectly sited at the confluence of the Danube and Vuka Rivers, Vukovar once thrived with a vibrant manufacturing industry and a Baroque centre until the tragic events of the civil war unfolded, and the city was almost completely destroyed. Renovation to restore the city to its former glory continues as we’ll witness on our guided tour, seeing the main sights and learning about the city’s tumultuous past.  

We then drive to the historic city of Osijek, which hugs the banks of the River Drava. We explore the Old Town – behind its sturdy stone walls lies an intriguing market square, lined by handsome public buildings with pastel-coloured facades. In the Upper City you’ll see the neo-Gothic cathedral, its red-brick spire gracefully soars above the rooftops. Osijek has undergone extensive restoration, but echoes of past conflicts linger, with some buildings still bearing the scars of the fighting.  

We’ll reembark our ship in Aljimas and this afternoon we’ll sail to Budapest, continuing overnight. 

As the day draws to a close, take your seat in the restaurant as another inspired menu is served by the first-class crew.  

Guided tours of Vukovar & Osijek.

We have nearly reached the end of our journey so head up on deck to get the best views of pastoral landscapes slipping by as we return to the Hungarian capital. It’s not long before Budapest’s brooding skyline comes into view once more. Though we’ve been here before, this imperial capital, straddling one of the world’s most famed waterways - a collage of palatial buildings, grand domes and Baroque churches with soaring spires, is still a breathtaking sight. As we make our final stately approach, if you’ve not captured the view for posterity, this is your chance!  

The rest of today is free for you to enjoy at leisure so if you didn’t have chance to enjoy a thermal bath, then perhaps now’s the time! Retreat to the peace of Margaret Island to meander the shady paths or take a scenic ride on the funicular up to Buda Castle to stroll the historic streets and enjoy the views over the rooftops. For something a little different, visit the vibrant Jewish Quarter, an eclectic mix of historic and contemporary charm, known for its charismatic ‘ruin’ bars and street art; spend the afternoon in the Museum of Fine Arts amongst the masterpieces; or head to Váci Street for some last-minute shopping, where you'll find everything from souvenirs to high-end fashion.  

Later return to the ship where you’ll be served tonight’s final dinner. The conversation with your fellow travelers flows over a digestif in the bar as you reflect on all that you have experienced during this epic cruise and sit back to enjoy an on-board Hungarian folklore show. 

Visit to Budapest & on-board folklore show.

Return home

After breakfast, it’s time to say goodbye to your crew and start the journey home.

Prices are per person, based on two people sharing a twin cabin with a limited number of sole occupancy cabins available on all decks, at the relevant supplement. The price includes:  

• All nights of your cruise in your choice of luxury cabin or suite
• All meals on board, including welcome cocktails and the Captain’s Dinner
• Complimentary on-board tea and coffee
• Complimentary on-board Wi-Fi (connection speeds may vary) 
• Coach travel as mentioned
• All visits and excursions as mentioned
• Five-star service from an English-speaking crew and knowledgeable local guides
• Services of a Riviera Travel Cruise Director and Concierge 
• Currency: Euro (all other countries, and on board), Forint (Hungary), Lev (Bulgaria), Leu (Romania), Dinar (Serbia)
• Language: Hungarian, Slovakian, German, Serbian, Romanian, Croatian, Bulgarian
• Country: Germany, Austria, Hungary, Slovakia, Serbia, Romania, Croatia, Bulgaria

Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the ship for the duration of your cruise. Please note that speeds may vary.

We want to ensure you make the correct choice before you book your holiday with us. If you have any concerns regarding the suitability of the holiday due to reduced mobility we would encourage you to call us to discuss these concerns. General information on mobility in connection with our tours can be found here .

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From the Blue Danube to the Black Sea (port-to-port cruise) Cruise on MS Vivaldi from Vienna (Austria)

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From the Blue Danube to the Black Sea (port-to-port cruise)

11 nights sailing from Vienna (Austria) on cruise ship MS Vivaldi

Cruise From the Blue Danube to the Black Sea (port-to-port cruise)

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Cruise Itinerary

11 nights Cruise on MS Vivaldi. Sailing from Vienna (Austria), visiting Vienna (Austria), Bratislava, Slovakia, Budapest (Hungary), Kalocsa (Hungary), Mohacs, Hungary, Novi Sad (Serbia), Belgrade (Serbia), Belgrade (Serbia), Donji Milanovac, Donji Milanovac, ROUSSE, ROUSSE, Giurgiu , FETESTI, FETESTI, Constanta (Romania), Constanta (Romania), FETESTI, ending in Oltenita (Rumania).

Vienna (Austria)

Vienna lies in the east of Austria. Vienna is Austria's primary city, and is by far the largest city in Austria, as well as its cultural, economic, and political centre. In 2001, the city centre was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Apart from being regarded as the City of Music because of its musical legacy, Vienna is also said to be "The City of Dreams" because it was home to the world's first psycho-analyst Sigmund Freud. The city's roots lie in early Celtic and Roman settlements that transformed into a Medieval and Baroque city, the capital of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. It is well known for having played an essential role as a leading European Music Centre, from the great age of Viennese Classicism through the early part of the 20th century. The Historic centre of Vienna is rich in architectural ensembles, including Baroque castles and gardens, as well as the late-19th-century Ringstrasse lined with grand buildings, monuments and parks.

Bratislava, Slovakia

The largest city in Slovakia is found on the banks of the Danube River. Most od the monuments are found on the Castle hill and in the old town, such as the St. Martin´s Cathedral, Grassalkovich Palace or Bratislava Castle.

Budapest (Hungary)

Budapest is the capital and the largest city of Hungary, the largest in East-Central Europe and one of the largest cities in the European Union. It is the country's principal political, cultural, commercial, industrial, and transportation centre,[2] sometimes described as the primate city of Hungary. Budapest became a single city occupying both banks of the river Danube with a unification of west-bank Buda and Óbuda with east-bank Pest. Cited as one of the most beautiful cities in Europe its extensive World Heritage Site includes the banks of the Danube, the Buda Castle Quarter, Andrássy Avenue, Heroes' Square and the Millennium Underground Railway, the second oldest in the world. Other highlights include a total of 80 geothermal springs, the world's largest thermal water cave system, second largest synagogue, and third largest Parliament building.

Kalocsa (Hungary)

Located south of Budapest on the banks of the Danube River in Bács-Kiskun County, Kalosca is one of the oldest known towns in Hungary with a history that has been traced back nearly 1000 years. Kalosca is well known for its production of traditional hungarian textiles, embroidery and pottery as well as its production of Paprika.

Mohacs, Hungary

Mohacs is a town in hungary situated in the banks of the river Danube. This picturesque town is also home to the annual Busojaras Festival. The festival remembers the battle of Mohacs, commanded by the young King Louis II of Hungary. Lasting 6 days, the celebration features Busos, people wearing traditional masks, and includes folk music, masquerades, parades and dancing. Away from the festival, The Memorial Place of Mohács, the Grand Church, and the Kanizsai Dorottya Museum are popular attractions for visitors.

Novi Sad (Serbia)

Novi Sad is a city located in the north of Serbia, on the bank of the Danube river. The most outstanding point of the city is the Fortress of Petrovaradin, home of artists, museum and hotel. This place is where one of the most popular musical festivals in the summer take place. EXIT gets together around 250.000 to 350.000 people. In the centre of the city we can see gothic, baroque and neoclasic buildings. Novi Sad is simply one of the historical treasures in Europe.

Belgrade (Serbia)

Belgrade is the capital and largest city of Serbia. It is located at the confluence of the Sava and Danube rivers, where the Pannonian Plain meets the Balkans. Belgrade hosts many annual international cultural events, including the Film Festival, Theatre Festival, Summer Festival, Music Festival, Book Fair, and the Beer Fest. The Nobel Prize winning author Ivo Andric wrote his most famous work, The Bridge on the Drina, in Belgrade. Nightlife: Belgrade has a reputation for offering a vibrant nightlife; many clubs that are open until dawn can be found throughout the city. The most recognizable nightlife features of Belgrade are the barges (splav), spread along the banks of the Sava and Danube Rivers

Donji Milanovac

Donji Milanovac is a city located on the eastern part of Serbia. it is a modern city with a large park and a promenade along the river Danube. In the town we will find sports activities, beach, touristic accomodation and services.

Located on the south west of Romania, and next to the Danube River. You can walk through the city watching the river flow. in this city we can find the only bridge found over the Danube between Romania and Bulgaria.

Constanta (Romania)

This city represents a big part of the Rumanian commerce exported through the Black Sea, connecting the principal commercial ports of the world. The sea attracts to this place many tourists too, and it make this city not only important for the commercial activity but also on the touristic matter.

The population is formed by Rumanian, Tatars, Greek, Turks, Bulgarian, Jewish and gypsies.The communication with Bucarest is excellent. It also has an internation airport.

Oltenita (Rumania)

The ship: MS Vivaldi

5 anchors class - 3 DECK SHIP  MS Vivaldi sails on the Danube and the Rhine.  

88 cabins and capacity for 176 passengers. Facilities : lounge-bar with a dance floor - bar- dining room - large sundeck with deckchairs - lift - terrace - French balconies - gift shop. Central heating, 230V electricity, air-conditioning, radar, TV and video in the lounge, wifi on board. MS Vivaldi sails on the Danube and the Rhine.  

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Danube River Cruises

Coursing through Germany, Austria, Hungary and seven other countries all the way to the Black Sea, the Danube is the soul of Central Europe. Join us along these culture-rich banks, whose scenic vineyards, ancient monasteries and elegant cities have inspired travelers for centuries.

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A Danube River cruise unveils Europe’s rich and dramatic history. Glittering cultural capitals, lush vineyards, magnificent monasteries and endless scenic splendor line the river’s banks. Here are some sample highlights you will see with Viking:

• Enchanting Passau, set where three rivers meet
• Lush vineyards of the Wachau Valley
• The baroque splendor of Melk Abbey
• Vienna’s elegant architecture
• The splendid Benedictine Abbey of Göttweig
• Scenic beauty of the picturesque Danube Bend
• Budapest’s stunning Chain Bridge and Parliament Building
• Soaring cliffs of the scenic Iron Gate
• Romania’s rural culture and rich folklore
• Belgrade’s impressive Kalemegdan Fortress

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AVALON WATERWAYS 23 Days | North Sea to the Black Sea Northbound (WOA0)

BUCHAREST TO AMSTERDAM Day 1 | Fetesti, Romania. Embark. Welcome to Romania! Flights must arrive by 10:30 am. Board your river cruise vessel at Noon and meet your crew at a welcome reception. (D) Day 2 | St. Gheorghe. Danube Delta. This morning during breakfast dock in St. Gheorghe from where the excursion into the DELTA will start. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, and the best preserved of Europe’s deltas, this area hosts over 300 species of birds as well as 45 species of freshwater fish. From its source in the Black Forest, to its delta at the Black Sea, the Danube measures 2,845 kilometers in length. The Km markings can be clearly seen on the river banks the length of the river. Enjoy a small celebration to mark Km “0” — the end of the Danube’s journey, before departing St. Gheorghe during lunch. A peaceful afternoon to relax as you sail to Tulcea, and a chance to learn more about the fascinating Delta at an onboard lecture. In the early evening visit Tulcea’s DELTA MUSEUM. (B,L,D) Day 3 | Harsova. Constanta. Arrive in Harsova after breakfast. From here you may choose to take either a full-day or a half-day excursion to Constanta, the most important commercial center in Romania, situated on the Black Sea. A Certified Local Guide shows you the highlights of this city and a visit of the NATURAL HISTORY & ARCHAEOLOGICAL MUSEUM is included. Then there is free time to enjoy this resort town on your own, rejoining your vessel in Harsova in the late afternoon. Alternatively you may want to relax on board in the morning and visit Constanta in the afternoon only. (B,L,D) Day 4 | Rousse, Bulgaria. Veliko Târnovo. Arbanassi. A comfortable ride from Rousse is the ancient Bulgarian capital of Veliko Târnovo. Situated on three hills surrounding the Yantra River, the city was a natural fortress with ancient stone houses clinging to the steep slopes. The oldest part is Tsarevets Hill, home of the Royal Fortress, palaces, and the PATRIARCH’S CHURCH. The historic village of Arbanassi is best known for its ETHNOGRAPHICAL MUSEUM and the outstanding collection of frescoes in the CHURCH OF THE NATIVITY. Those who do not wish to participate in the full day excursion, may remain on board, and join an included sightseeing of Rousse after breakfast. At lunchtime sail for Svistov where excursion participants will rejoin the ship. (B,L,D) Day 5 | Iron Gates. Today enjoy a leisurely day of sailing. At first the river separates Romania on the right bank from Bulgaria on the left and is relatively wide. Later, it carves a path through the lower Carpathian Mountains to the north and the Balkan Mountains to the south, creating a series of four steep gorges, known as the Iron Gates. Until the Iron Gate Dam (which houses a hydro-electric power station) was completed in 1972, this section of the Danube presented great hazards to the shipping trade. (B,L,D) Day 6 | Iron Gates. More spectacular scenery as you continue through the Iron Gates, passing through the Small and Great Kazan gorges. This afternoon dock at. Donji Milanovac from where a short drive takes you to the impressive EXHIBITION CENTER housing archaeological artifacts found in this area and from where you have unique views of the Danube Gorge.(B,L,D) Day 7 | Belgrade, Serbia. The capital of Serbia is situated at the confluence of the Danube and Sava Rivers. A local expert will be proud to show you its main sights, which include the city’s principal landmark, KALEMEGDAN FORTRESS; St. Sava, the world’s largest Orthodox church; and Marshal Tito’s tomb and monument. The city center has a lively pedestrian area and charming outdoor cafes. (B,L,D) Day 8 | Vukovar, Croatia. Osijek. Today, learn more about the complex history of Croatia and the events that led to the Croatian War of Independence. A Certified Local Guide shows you both Vukovar, Croatia’s largest river port located at the confluence of the Danube and Vuka Rivers, and Osijek, an important economic and cultural center. Vukovar was scene to an 87-day siege in 1991, known as the Battle of Vukovar. This and other dramatic events in the recent past have shaped both the present and the future of this region. (B,L,D) Day 9 | Mohács, Hungary. Pecs. Villány Wine District. This morning, a guided excursion takes you to Pecs, Hungary’s fifth-largest city and the richest in terms of Turkish architecture. Then into the Villány district, where some of Hungary’s best red wines are produced. Learn more about which varietals are grown, and why the climate and soil conditions here are ideal for the production of excellent wines. Relax on board this afternoon as you sail toward Budapest. (B,L,D) Day 10 | Budapest. Spanning the banks of the Danube, Budapest is Eastern Europe’s liveliest and most cosmopolitan metropolis. Eight bridges, including the famous Chain and Elisabeth Bridges, connect ancient Buda on the right bank with Pest on the left. The massive hilltop castle complex with Fishermen’s Bastion and the Matthias Church is among the many sights your Local Guide will show you. (B,L,D) Day 11 | Bratislava, Slovakia. Vienna, Austria. A leisurely morning before you arrive in Slovakia’s capital, Bratislava, situated at the foothills of the Carpathian Mountains. A Certified Local Guide will show you the charming Old Town with its Town Hall and views of Mirbach Palace, as well as gothic ST. MARTIN’S CATHEDRAL. Return to your ship in time for lunch and cruise to Vienna, where you arrive in the late afternoon. (B,L,D) Day 12 | Vienna. Once the center of the mighty Habsburg Empire, the city has much to offer: lavish Hofburg Palace, the impressive Vienna Opera House, the majestic Ringstrasse and awe-inspiring St. Stephen’s Cathedral, to name just a few of the sights you will enjoy during your included tour. You do not rush through Vienna; you waltz, taking your time to savor each classic sight and sound. Shop in the Karntnerstrasse and enjoy Sachertorte or Apfelstrudel in a neighborhood cafe. An optional concert is available during your stay. (B,L,D) Day 13 | Dürnstein. Grein. Standing on the banks of the Danube, the magnificent baroque Stiftskirche with its blue facade is without a doubt the landmark of Durnstein. A Certified Local Guide will take you on a walking tour of this town, which lies right in the heart of the Wachau wine region, and will tell you the tale of England’s King Richard the Lionheart, who was imprisoned in the castle whose ruins still stand above the town. In the late afternoon, arrive in the attractive country resort of Grein, nestled at the foot of a bluff in the shadow of its castle. Enjoy a guided walk and take pictures of the turreted houses on the main square. (B,L,D) Day 14 | Grein. Linz. In the early morning hours, depart Grein for Linz, where you arrive before lunch. A Certified Local Guide will acquaint you with the highlights of this, Austria’s third-largest city and an important river port. Culture is an important part of life in Linz. Composer Anton Bruckner lived here and Mozart’s Linzer Symphony was composed in the city. Alternatively, you may opt for a full-day optional excursion to Salzburg or Cesky Krumlov in the CzechRepublic. (B,L,D) Day 15 | Regensburg, Germany. Regensburg is one of Germany’s best preserved medieval cities. Architectural highlights on your guided tour include the Old Town Hall, and Porta Pretoria—gates to an ancient Roman fort built in 179 AD. The city is the capital of Upper Palatinate, a bustling university town, and one of Bavaria’s cultural centers. It is here you will find Germany’s oldest restaurant, the 12th-century Historische Wurstküche (Old Sausage Kitchen). (B,L,D) Day 16 | Nuremberg. Although Nuremberg suffered extensive damage during WWII, much of it was restored to its original style. Marvel at this historic city with its fabulous gothic churches and elegant patrician houses—all explained by a local expert. Nuremberg’s traditions include famous Lebkuchen, toy making, and metal working. (B,L,D) Day 17 | Bamberg. Another beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Site is medieval Bamberg. Your walking tour takes in its breathtaking cathedral, the Old Town Hall straddling the River Regnitz, and serpentine streets with charming houses and 18th-century mansions. (B,L,D) Day 18 | Würzburg. Known as the “Pearl of the Romantic Road,” Wurzburg is surrounded by sloping hills covered with vineyards. The magnificent BISHOP’S RESIDENZ is another UNESCO World Heritage Site. (B,L,D) Day 19 | Miltenberg. Located on the Main River, Miltenberg is a picturesque Bavarian village that thrived on income from river traffic. Its cultural wealth and affluence are reflected in the beautiful medieval and renaissance houses and the gothic splendor of the Merchant Hall. This afternoon, learn how to bake a local SOFT COOKIE specialty. (B,L,D) Day 20 | Rüdesheim. Rhine Gorge. Visit SIEGFRIED’S MECHANICAL MUSICAL INSTRUMENT MUSEUM in pretty Rudesheim. Enjoy a SPECIAL TREAT, then there’s free time to explore the Drosselgasse and pick up some souvenirs. The dramatic RHINE GORGE is the most beautiful stretch of river. Pass the legendary rock of the Lorelei, where sweet songs of local beauties lured enchanted sailors to their doom. (B,L,D) Day 21 | Cologne. Cologne is one of Germany’s largest cities, with a river skyline dominated by the soaring twin spires of its magnificent gothic cathedral. The Germano-Roman Museum located next to the cathedral is a must for history buffs! Try a Kölsch in one of the many taverns and shop for a bottle of “4711,” the original eau de cologne. (B,L,D) Day 22 | Amsterdam, Holland. Holland’s delightful 700-year-old capital is sophisticated and modern, with a rich and fascinating history. The works of famous Dutch masters can be seen in world-renowned museums such as the Rijksmuseum or the Van Gogh. There is no better way to see Amsterdam than by CANAL BOAT, cruising through the elegant grachten lined with stately homes. (B,L,D) Day 23 | Amsterdam. Disembark. Your vacation ends with breakfast this morning. (B) NOTE: Itinerary is subject to change without notice. For the most up-to-date information, please refer to the itinerary schedule you receive with your final documents.

Danube to the Black Sea

Enjoy a hotel stay in the Romanian capital of Bucharest, admire the stunning scenery of the UNESCO-listed Danube Delta, and cruise through seven incredible countries on this unique Danube to the Black Sea voyage

Cruise Only 9 nights from £1925pp

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• Description

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Discover the natural beauty of the UNESCO-listed Danube Delta and explore the contrasting capital cities of Bucharest, Belgrade, Budapest and Bratislava on this special voyage along the Danube.

See the sights of the Romanian capital of Bucharest during an overnight hotel stay, before embarking your luxurious ship and cruising to the breathtaking Danube Delta, teeming with wildlife. Perhaps take the optional safari boat excursion along the beautiful channels which make up the Delta, before heading to the quaint town of Hirsova, overlooked by the magnificent Lipovan Church.

Admire stunning scenery as you cruise the famous Iron Gates en route to the Serbian capital of Belgrade at the confluence of the Danube and Sava rivers, and home to the largest Orthodox church in Serbia, the striking St Sava Church.

From Mohacs, take the opportunity to visit the vast plains of the Puszta, and explore the Hungarian capital of Budapest, where iconic sights include the Hungarian Parliament and ornate Fisherman's Bastion, before admiring the impressive Bratislava Castle which towers above the Slovakian capital of Bratislava.

L155 Operated by Amadeus River Cruises

Bucharest to Vienna Itinerary

Day 1 - uk - bucharest (romania), day 2 - bucharest - fetesti, day 3 - danube delta - st george, day 4 - hirsova, day 5 - svishtov (bulgaria), day 6 - iron gates, day 7 - belgrade (serbia), day 8 - mohacs (hungary), day 9 - budapest, day 10 - bratislava (slovakia), day 11 - vienna (austria) - uk.

The Captain reserves the right to modify the cruise itinerary.

Vienna to Bucharest Itinerary

Day 1 - uk - vienna (austria), day 2 - vienna - bratislava (slovakia), day 3 - esztergom (hungary) - budapest, day 4 - mohacs - vukovar (croatia), day 5 - belgrade (serbia), day 7 - svishtov (bulgaria) - giurgui (romania), day 8 - danube delta - st george, day 9 - fetesti - bucharest, day 10 - bucharest - uk.

• 8 or 9-night full board cruise
• Overnight hotel stay in Bucharest
• Complimentary wine, draft beer and soft drinks with lunch and dinner on board
• Tea and coffee available all day
• Complimentary bottled water in cabin replenished daily
• Complimentary WiFi on board
• Wireless AMADEUS Audio System for all excursions
• Cocktail reception, welcome dinner and gala dinner
• Complimentary bicycles on board

Price Does Not Include

• Travel Insurance
• Add flights and transfers to make this a fully protected package - flight inclusive package from just £2259pp!

Additional Information

• Optional excursions:
• Bratislava - Beauty on the Danube - £33
• Visit to Schloss Hof Palace and Estate - £ 50pp OR The Small Carpathian Wine Route - £ 45pp
• Esztergom with basilica, Visegrad Castle and Szentendre - £41pp
• Budapest - Capital of Hungary - £33pp OR Vibrant Budapest - £36pp
• Excursion Vukovar & Nature Park Kopački rit - £53pp
• Belgrade - Mixture of cultures - £34pp
• Topola and Oplenac: secrets of the Serbian Royal Dynasty - £34pp
• Skadarlija, the artists’ quarter - £48pp
• Veliko Tarnovo landmarks and cityscape - £43pp OR Rousse with Basarbovo Monastery - £47pp
• Danube Delta Nature Experience - £48pp
• City tour Bucharest including lunch - included
• Excursion packages available from £126pp

2024 Departures £ price per person based on 2 people sharing

2025 departures £ price per person based on 2 people sharing, price information.

• Single supplements are available on request
• Flights and transfers - we can arrange these for you. Flight inclusive packages available from just £2259pp!
• 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

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Majesty and history abound on this once-in-a-lifetime Danube River cruise

Floating in luxury past fairytale castles and storybook villages, there's majesty and history at every turn on a Danube river cruise.

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Daniel, our cheerful piano man aboard the Viking Longship Embla, is leaning into his performance of Beyond the Sea .

We are moored on the Danube River in Vienna watching a clear blue sky bow out with a lush orange sunset as the pretty cityscape twinkles into night.

Nursing our after-dinner cocktails as we laze in timber rocking chairs on the open-air Aquavit Terrace at the bow of the Embla, we drink in the 270-degree views and the soundtrack of this moment as Daniel wraps his oh-so-European accent around the lyrics made famous by Bobby Darrin back in 1959.

Somewhere beyond the sea/ Somewhere waiting for me

My lover stands on golden sands/ And watches the ships that go sailing.

As twilight catches the ripples across the wide expanse of this most majestic of rivers, in this most majestic of European cities, Daniel croons this swoon-worthy jazz standard with a giddy verve that can't help but make you smile and sway along.

Somewhere beyond the sea/ She's there watching for me

If I could fly like birds on high/ Then straight to her arms/ I'd go sailing.

It's the end of day three of our eight-day Danube Waltz river cruise from Budapest in Hungary to Passau in Germany. Yesterday we were strolling the cobbled laneways of Bratislava, the charming capital of Slovakia.

Tomorrow we will be up river near Krems tasting apricot dumplings at Gottweig Abbey, a mountaintop Benedictine monastery of baroque grandeur, and marvelling from the Embla's sun deck as the vertical vineyards and clifftop castle ruins of the stunning Wachau Valley glide by.

The Danube, the mighty, ancient waterway that once kept the barbarian tribes at bay as the northernmost frontier of the Roman Empire, is the great divider and connector of central and Eastern Europe.

Flowing 2850 kilometres from the Black Forest in Germany to the Black Sea in Romania, it's the longest river in Europe after the Volga. Unlike the Volga, which is located wholly within Russia, the Danube is the most international river on the planet: ribboning through 10 countries and past four national capitals: Vienna, Bratislava, Budapest and Belgrade.

To cruise the Danube on a luxurious Viking Longship - with no sails or oars or horned helmets but heated bathroom floors, a cocktail bar and raiding parties of sightseers at every port - is to experience the feeling of being transported: past evocative vistas of cities, forests, mountains and villages; back in time to ancient palaces, castles and cathedrals; and across borders into richly diverse cultural and culinary delights.

Our cosy French balcony stateroom on the middle deck of the Embla's four levels features a wide ceiling-to-floor glass door that opens to a railing, bringing the river and the countryside beyond its banks right to the edge of our comfortable bed.

Other suites, all neat and smart in a Scandinavian-influenced style like ours, offer separate bedrooms and sitting rooms and verandas with space for a couple to sit but we find the French balcony option has just enough room for us to start and finish each day with the Danube lapping at our feet.

Knowing the cruise only allows a day or so in Budapest, we arrive early as part of Viking's two-night pre-cruise extension package. The seriously elegant but unpretentious Corinthia Hotel offers swanky relaxation and recuperation after a dreadful flight from Bangkok.

First opened as the Grand Royal Hotel in 1896, it more recently served as the inspiration for Wes Anderson's 2014 Oscar-winning film, The Grand Budapest Hotel . The facade out front and the grand marble staircase and Royal Spa baths within are the stars of the show.

The Corinthia Hotel proves the ideal base to explore this fascinating city on foot: from the buzzing shopping streets of downtown Pest across the grand Chain Bridge over the broad Danube that divides the city to the stylishly sedate hills of Buda with its old town and massive hilltop castle.

The storybook streetscapes, plazas of monuments and ornate Parliament building overlooking the river are a feast for the eyes while the city's Grand Market offers a total sausage and paprika fest - Hungary's peppery, smoky kolbasz and famous red spice dominating many stalls.

And what better than a freshly baked, delectably crisp cinnamon chimney cake for a sugar boost to power you along to the next unexpected sight: a bronze statue of former US president Ronald Reagan.

Never mind that he never actually visited Hungary, Mr Reagan is honoured here because he famously told his Soviet counterpart, Mr Gorbachev, to "tear down this wall"; his role in ending the Cold War earning him a likeness erected within view of the parliament.

His left hand - outstretched in mid stride - is worn to a golden shine by tourists grasping it for selfies. One of his shoes is also rubbed bright because - the local tour guides smile - the local Communists who used to control Hungary are constantly stomping on his foot.

Not far away, on the edge of the Danube embankment, a more sombre memorial: 60 pairs of shoes sculpted in bronze strewn along the riverfront. This simple but haunting installation to commemorate the Holocaust marks the site where Jewish men, women and children were executed by the Nazi-backed Arrow Cross Party militia during World War II - but not before they removed their shoes, which were of significant value at the time. As artistic expression and as silent historical storyteller, this is a powerful and poignant statement by modern Hungary.

Aboard the Embla, our luggage unpacked and clothes hung for the next week, dinner is served to the vessel's 190 guests as the dramatically illuminated Budapest cityscape at twilight begins to slide past our table. Motoring smoothly upstream, our Danube adventure is under way.

It's often said the only thing blue about this exalted river is the name of Johann Strauss II's The Blue Danube , that rousing, agelessly enchanting 1867 Viennese waltz regarded as one of the world's most famous pieces of classical music. Up close, the Danube's densely sedimented current churning with surprising speed and force appears way more green-grey-brown than blue.

But back in our stateroom after dinner, gazing out from our little balcony under a moonlit night, a glorious blue tint dances across the surface of the river. Sure, it's a trick of the light as the inky blackness of sky and water outside meets the soft glow from our cosy quarters but that luminous blue hue makes for an enchanting nightcap as we begin our waltz up the Danube.

Next morning I have the sun deck to myself as an orange glow rises over the river. Here, the waterway forms the border between Hungary and Slovakia, with forests and farmhouses on either side. Passing through the first of more than a dozen locks on this stretch of the river, the Embla enters a massive concrete chamber side by side with other vessels and is raised some 20 metres so we can cruise on to Bratislava.

In the Slovakian capital's charming old town, an afternoon amble includes a visit to its Gothic St Martin's Cathedral, the coronation church for 10 kings and one queen of the Habsburg dynasty. We look up at the stained glass and peer down through the glass floor at the human remains visible in the catacombs below.

By morning, the edifices and churches become even more grandiose as we wake in Vienna and join a shore excursion that takes us past the giant Riesenrad ferris wheel with its red wagons (made famous by the 1949 noir classic The Third Man ) into the history and majesty of the city's many palaces, museums, memorials and its astonishingly ornate St Stephen's Cathedral. A day spent walking and gaping at all the architectural opulence barely scratches the surface of this extravagant metropolis.

Back aboard the Embla, piano man Daniel tickles the ivories until midnight as we cast off for Krems, where by morning we are visiting the 11th-century Gottweig Abbey and tasting its sparkling apricot wine (crafty monks these Benedictines) and marvelling at its ceiling fresco (circa 1739) depicting then Holy Roman Emperor and Habsburg monarch Charles VI as Apollo - complete with OG golden chariot and Insta-fabulous six-pack abs.

Cruising from Krems to Linz takes us through by far the most scenic stretch of the Danube, the Wachau, a medieval landscape of terraced vineyards ornamented with quaint villages, imposing church spires and ancient ruins, most notably Durnstein Castle where legend has it King Richard the Lionheart of England was held captive in 1192 by Duke of Austria Leopold V after refusing to divvy up his loot from the Crusades.

With our newfound Embla friends Skip and Allison from Houston, Texas, we stand on the sun deck under cloudy skies and marvel at these stunning vistas steeped in history: the townscapes straight off a Christmas biscuit tin lid; the steeples, towers and turrets; the ancient grape vines carved into the sides of mountains. For dinner tonight, because we are in Austria, the ship's kitchen and cheerful restaurant staff put on a hearty dinner featuring, of course, schnitzel and strudel. Plus cake for Skip's birthday!

The next day in Linz, after a group walking tour of this artsy provincial city, we explore beyond Hauptplatzf, the old town's main square, and find ourselves at one of the city's oldest bakeries, k.u.k. Hofbckerei. No better spot, it turns out, to try the traditional Austrian Linzer Torte, a densely textured, jam-filled cake topped with thinly sliced almonds. With its dark wooden facade and interior walls crammed with fabulous old portraits of Austro-Hungarian aristocrats and monarchs, the cosy old-world authenticity here adds richness to our coffee and cake.

Cruising overnight from Linz brings us all too soon to our last stop on the Danube: Passau, Germany. Known as the "City of Three Rivers", this gorgeous city lies at the confluence of the Inn, Ilz and Danube rivers. From the uppermost turret of the cliff-top fortress Veste Oberhaus (overlooking the confluence since 1219) we trace the distinct colours of the Inn and Ilz as they fold into the Danube.

In the heart of Passau's Old Town, our tour guide leads us along cobblestone lanes between rows of creamcake-coloured buildings to Saint Stephen's Cathedral. Just when we think we might be all churched out, this masterpiece of the Italian baroque style sets our heads spinning with its absurdly pretty ceiling fresco.

Some fellow passengers take a bus excursion to Salzburg to get their Sound of Music on in the city of Mozart two hours away, but we find plenty in Passau to explore at our leisure, including market-fresh pretzels savoured on a park bench by the Inn River and steins of beer and lunch of juicy bratwurst as the Old Town Hall glockenspiel chimes in with a soundtrack.

As we make our way back to the Embla to say our goodbyes, echoing strings lure us to an alcove where an adorably scruffy, urchin-looking terrier is propped in an open violin case and wrapped ever-so-photogenically in a bright blue blanket to snuggle against the light but crisp breeze.

As the smiling busker leans into the ancient, cobblestone-assisted acoustics with classical notes that pluck ever-so tenderly at the heartstrings, his scrappy sidekick makes a face that only scrappy mutts can make.

Read more in Explore:

• Three amazing cruises that allow you to choose your own adventure
• Tapas is more than a meal at this Barcelona restaurant - it's a way of life
• This unforgettable experience in Vietnam will leave you speechless

It's a tourist trap for sure. But we've just waltzed for a week up the beautiful Danube so we can't help but succumb to another exquisite moment of artful enchantment.

The ship: Viking Longship Embla. In Norse mythology, Embla was the first woman to be created, the mother of the human race.

The size: 135 metres long, 95 staterooms, 190 guests, 2 putting greens on the sun deck

Get on board: Viking's eight-day Danube Waltz journey from Budapest to Passau or vice versa is priced from $5295 per person including return economy air fares on all 2025, 2026 and 2027 cruises if booked before November 15.

Must-do: Optional shore excursions in Linz, Austria, include a guided tour of Mauthausen Memorial, a former Nazi concentration camp and notorious slave labour prison that is now a site of remembrance and education. A solemn step back into Austria's dark past.

Good to know: Viking's pre- and post-cruise extension packages include additional two-, three- or four-night stays in Budapest, Prague, Munich and Salzburg.

Explore more: vikingrivercruises.com.au

The writer was a guest of Viking River Cruises.

James Joyce

James Joyce is executive editor of ACM, the publisher of this masthead. Based in Canberra, he is a former editor of ACM's The Canberra Times and began his journalism career as a cadet reporter for his hometown paper, ACM's Newcastle Herald, where he spent two decades moonlighting as the masthead’s movie and TV critic while working his way up to the position of deputy editor.

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World Travel

10 Most Scenic River Cruise Destinations in the World

Last Updated: September 26, 2024

Isn’t it fascinating to sail for miles to explore historic gems, pleasing landscapes, and cultural treasures from the comfort of a floating hotel? A river cruise is the ultimate way to experience this magical voyage. Cruising down a river offers a more intimate and cozy experience than ocean cruises. From the timeless charm of Europe’s rivers to the exotic beauty of Southeast Asia, here’s a list of the 10 best river cruise destinations in the world.

1. The Rhône River, France

The Rhône River cruises venture through some of the most captivating and Pinterest-y landscapes of Europe. It cuts through central Europe, from the Swiss Alps through the heart of France to the Mediterranean Sea. You can choose a beautiful cruise that serves delicious food and departs from France’s gastronomic capital, Lyon. Such cruises cover the vineyards of Burgundy and iconic scenes of Provence. Since you will be cruising through vineyards, sipping on some classic wines is unmissable. Travel to medieval times as the river passes through Arles and Avignon.

Best Time to Cruise: Book during late spring, April to June, and early autumn, September to October, for pleasant weather and fewer tourists.

2. The Amazon River, South America

The Amazon River, flows through Peru, Colombia, and Brazil, flanked by the world’s largest tropical rainforest. Thousands of tributaries flow into the Amazon, creating the world’s largest river. The cruise provides a unique chance to spot wildlife, including pink river dolphins, monkeys, and sloths. On the way, the river ripples through local villages, biodiverse regions, and lush jungle areas.

Best Time to Cruise: Visit during the dry season, from May to September, for easier wildlife viewing.

3. The Danube River, Hungary

The second longest river in Europe, the Danube River, winds through ten countries, including Germany, Austria, Hungary, and Romania. It passes through Central and Southeastern Europe and streams from the Black Forest into the Black Sea. The river holds historical importance as it was once a border of the Roman Empire. On the Danube River cruise, you will be sailing through some of the most popular cities, such as Vienna and Bratislava. Moreover, you will be gliding past the Parliament building in Budapest.

Best Time to Cruise: A Danube River cruise is best from spring to early autumn, April to October.

4. The Ganges, India

The states of India are fragmented by rivers on different sides, out of which the Ganges is the country’s lifeblood. It is a spiritual trademark for the Hindu, the country’s biggest religion. A Ganges Cruise offers not just scenic pleasures but also takes you on spiritual pilgrimage and cultural exploration, passing through ancient cities, rural villages, and important religious sites. You can visit the holiest city in the world, Varanasi, where pilgrims perform rituals, prayers are sung in rhythm, and massive aartis are held every evening. Some of the cruises also take you through the colonial architecture and gardens of Kolkata.

Best time to Cruise: Plan a trip from October to March, when the weather is cool and favorable.

5. Chicago River, USA

Ditch a long week of cruising and hop on a 75-minute tour by the Chicago River. This is a wonderful way to explore the iconic landmarks of the city, Tribune Tower, Willis Tower, Marina City and the John Hancock Center. Besides this, it provides a deep insight into the city’s urban development. You can hear how Great Chicago Fire of 1871 reshaped the city, how the river was reversed in the 19th century to prevent pollution and how the city became the global centre for architecture.

Best Time to Cruise: May to October is the best time for a Chicago River cruise, with pleasant weather and clear skies.

6. Seine, France

Europe is home to several destinations for family cruise holidays . Paris is one of the most surreal river cruise destinations. The City of Lights gleams with skyscrapers and world-class art. You get to admire landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Notre-Dame Cathedral, the Louvre, and the Musée d’Orsay. Take a look at the medieval side of the city. Outside of Paris, many Seine River cruises stop in Giverny, the village where the famous Impressionist painter Claude Monet lived and worked. Sail across the Rouen and Normandy coasts and discover architecture with deep historical significance. The best part about the Seine River is it offers short cruises such as sightseeing cruises and dinner cruises, and also multi-day cruises covering different cities.

Best Time to Cruise: Spring to early fall, April to October, is the best time for a Seine River cruise, with warm weather and long daylight hours.

7. The Volga River, Russia

Floating on the longest European river, the Volga River Cruise steers through the breathtaking architecture, Orthodox heritage, and beautiful landscapes of Russia. Explore the capital city of Moscow and the former imperial city of St. Petersburg. Then, also cruise past the stunning onion-domed churches and traditional Russian villages.

Best Time to Cruise: Visit during the summer months, May to September.

8. The Rhine, Germany

One of the most serene European cruise destinations is Germany, and what makes it gorgeous is the dream-like flowing Rhine River. Separated into northern and southern sections, both parts offer vivid and unique features. The northern Rhine flows through Germany, offering an eye-catching view of hillside castles and flower-filled landscapes. The southern Rhine flows between Germany and France to touch Switzerland from the front. Running towards the South, it meanders through the Black Forest, spilling into the German town Alsace.

Best Time to Cruise: Spring to autumn (May to September), or during the Christmas market season in December.

9. The Mekong River, Southeast Asia

Flowing through China, Myanmar, Laos, Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam, the Mekong River is the ultimate source of resources for millions of people in Southeast Asia. A Mekong River cruise exposes you to the region’s cultural prestige, with stops at vibrant cities, floating markets, and remote villages.

Best Time to Cruise: Take the Mekong River Cruise from November through February for cooler temperatures.

10. The Mississippi River, USA

The third-largest river basin in the world, the Mississippi River, stretches over 1.2 million square miles. Imagine water takes around three months to run through the entire river. Interestingly, the river is home to 260 fish species, around 25% of North America. The river flows through ten US states, so you can hop on any of the short-lived cruises and enjoy a wonderful and relaxing tour.

Best Time to Cruise: Spring (April to May) is the perfect time to take a cruise here.

1. What is a river cruise?

A river cruise is a journey along a river, often within a single country or region, on a small, comfortable ship designed to navigate rivers rather than oceans.

2. What is the best river cruise to go on?

Some popular river cruises are the Amazon River (South America), the Danube River (Europe), the Mekong River (Asia), and the Nile River (Africa).

3. Which is the largest river cruise in the world?

The world’s largest river cruise is MV Ganga Vilas that begins its journey from Varanasi, India. It also has different types of cabins on a cruise with various spacing.

4. How long do river cruises last?

River cruises range from short 3 to 4 days trips to longer 1 or 2 week voyages. Some even offer extended journeys lasting up to a month.

5. Do I need a visa for river cruises? ,

Visa requirements depend on the countries the river cruise visits. Check the visa regulations for each country on your itinerary ahead of time.

Whether drifting past medieval castles on the Rhine, experiencing the mystical temples along the Mekong, or savoring the romantic charm of Paris on the Seine, each river unveils a unique story. Unlike ocean cruises, river cruises bring you closer to the soul of each destination, offering intimate access to hidden gems and local traditions. A river cruise is the perfect journey to discover the world’s most beautiful and historic waterways. Let the river guide your next unforgettable adventure.

October Trip to Thailand 2024: Climate, Events, and Travel Tips

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Shambhavi Sisodia

Intrigued by the breathtaking beauty and unbelievable diversity around the world, Shambhavi has taken the agenda of inspiring travellers to embark on their new journeys with passion and information. She has a pen in one hand and a camera in the other. She is a food-enamoured introvert who is fond of plants, reads fiction and taps feet to Bollywood music.

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Vienna to Bratislava: a Boat Trip Down the Danube River

These two capital cities are so close to each other, it’s definitely worth taking a ride down the river to visit Bratislava from Vienna .

There are several things to keep in mind, whether you’re visiting on a day trip from Vienna, or spending a few nights in Vienna.

The information on this page goes for people going either way between the cities.

Key Info on Going from Vienna to Bratislava

• Bratislava is about 50 miles down the Danube River from Vienna
• The boat trip, on the Twin City Liner, is about 75 minutes.
• The train ride is about 45 minutes.

Day Trip Tours to Bratislava from Vienna

If you’d like to avoid the hassle of figuring out the boats or trains, you can always have someone else do all the coordinating.

There are several tour options, and I think these are two of the best:

➡️ Click to Book: Vienna to Bratislava (Private Tour)

➡️ Click to Book: Vienna to Bratislava (Group)

Travel By Boat on The Twin City Liner

The Twin City Liner is my favorite way of getting between Vienna and Bratislava.  The departure and arrival ports are convenient in both cities, and a cruise down (or up) the Danube River will add to your experience in this beautiful part of Europe.

Booking Tickets

You can book easily online before your trip at a number of websites .

For ferry trips in Europe, I’ve been using FerryHopper.com .  The app is free, and easy to use.  The search function pulls up your options, and then once you book it sends you a QR code you’ll use to board.

You can also buy tickets from the counter at the port in Vienna.

Departure from Vienna

A warning here: the Twin City Liner only has a few departures each day.  They don’t have multiple boats cruising back and forth nonstop.

In the peak summer months, the departures from Vienna are usually:

• 4:30pm   

Departures from Bratislava are often:

These hours change through the seasons and year-to-year, so be sure to check when you’re there .   The point is:  you’ll likely only have three opportunities per day to depart from Vienna to Bratislava.

In Vienna, you’ll actually depart from the canal, not the Danube River itself.

The Twin City Liner port has a big restaurant and check-in area, so you can arrive early to have a snack or drink.

Boarding usually starts about 30 minutes prior to departure.

Seats are assigned, so there’s no need for a rush to the bridge to board.

The Twin City Liner is wheelchair accessible, and passengers in chairs (and their friends/family) will board first.

Twin City Liner: Prices & Seating 

Prices range onboard, from about 9 Euros for children to 50+ Euros for adults in the Captain’s Lounge on the upper deck.

In my opinion, it’s not worth spending extra for tickets or seats on the Twin City Liner.  They’re pretty much the same level of comfort and the same legroom.

There are two floors on the boat: the main lower level, and a smaller seating area upstairs.

The seating configuration is 2-4-2, as in:  2 seats by the window, 4 seats in the middle, and 2 seats by the other window.

Upstairs, the more expensive Captain’s Lounge seats are basically situated around tables.

The Ride Down the Danube River

The boat ride between Vienna and Bratislava takes about 75 minutes.

If you depart from Vienna, you’ll cruise very slowly through the canal, before speeding up once the boat hits the Danube River.

While passengers are restricted from walking around while the boat is in the canal, you’re welcome to get up and move around and go outside to take photos as soon as you hit the river.

For the most part, the view is unremarkable.  You will pass a pretty town on the river’s south side, called Hainburg an der Donau.  

If you look up on the hill, you’ll see the ruins of the Hainburg Castle.

Hold onto your phones outside because this boat speeds along!

Food & Amenities Onboard

You’ll find a small cafe, serving snacks and drinks on the lower level.

You can also order from your seat and a server will bring you the food.

The boats have free wifi, but no charging outlets for phones or computers.

Vienna to Bratislava by Train

It’s also quick and easy to get to Bratislava by train from Vienna. Depending on the train service, it’ll take roughly one hour to get between the cities.

Train Stations

In Vienna, most trains depart from Wien Hauptbahnhof (Vienna Central Station).

In Bratislava, trains typically arrive at Bratislava Hlavna Station.  It’s also known as:

• Bratislava Central Station
• Bratislava hl. st.
• Hlavna Stanica

It’s an easy walk from the train station down to the historic city center and castle.

Ticket Cost

Prices will range, but generally a one-way train ticket between Vienna and Bratislava will be 10E – 15E.

Train or Boat?

The benefits of the train are: it’s less expensive, faster, and you have more departure options.  The boat ride is just prettier and more of an “experience” on the river.

A Day Trip to Bratislava from Vienna

On a day trip to Bratislava, you can check out several great sites, all within a walkable distance from either the train station or boat dock on the Danube River.   Here’s an *incomplete* list of options:

• Bratislava Castle : The symbol of Bratislava sits on a hill overlooking the city and the Danube River. It offers panoramic views of the surrounding area and houses a museum that explores Slovakia’s history.  Climb the 120 steps to the tower!
• Old Town : Bratislava’s old town is full of  cobblestone streets, colorful buildings, and charming cafes.
• Michael’s Tower: Climb the 700-year-old tower for beautiful views of the city.  Tickets are (oddly) at the Red Crayfish Pharmacy.
• St. Martin’s Cathedral : A Gothic-style cathedral where many Hungarian kings were crowned. Its towering spire is a defining feature of the Bratislava skyline.
• UFO Observation Deck : You can’t miss it, and the UFO looks just like you’re imagining.  I’d assume its construction was controversial (and its existence probably still is!).  It’s across the river, which you can get to by walking across the bridge. There’s a bar and restaurant way up at the top.
• Blue Church (Church of St. Elizabeth) : This quirky Art Nouveau-style church is famous for its sky-blue color and unique design, making it one of Bratislava’s most photographed landmarks.
• Bike Ride : Bicycle rental docks are all over, and can make exploring the banks of the Danube enjoyable and easy.  Paths run for many miles on both sides of the river.

The Best Time to Visit Vienna and Bratislava

Both cities experience similar weather patterns due to their proximity, and temperatures tend to vary slightly but follow the trend below.

While June, July, and August can be the warmest and busiest, I think shoulder season visits are best.  September and early October are the sweet spots for me.

Here’s a brief overview of the seasons

Winter (December – February)

• Temps: 30°F to 40°F
• Overview: Winters are cold, and can be snowy.  Fewer restaurants will be open and the Twin City Liner won’t run as often.

Spring (March – May)

• Temps: 45°F to 65°F
• Overview: Cool weather warms nicely by May.  More shops and restaurants open, making May a great time to visit.

Summer (June – August)

• Temps: 70°F to 95°F
• Overview: Summers can get pretty hot!  July and August, even into September, reach into the 90s.

Fall (September – November)

• Temps: 80s in September!
• September starts off very nicely, but the weather in the region cools significantly by November.   By October, you can enjoy the fall foliage, too.  Both months are great for a visit.

FAQs on a Boat Trip from Vienna to Bratislava

Let’s go over a few a few more questions people ask about going between Vienna and Bratislava.  Several of these have already been answered above:

Is it faster to go by boat or train between Vienna and Bratislava?

The train is the fastest way to get between the cities.  The direct train ride is 45 minutes.  

The drive time is usually one hour.

The boat ride is about 75 minutes.

How far is Bratislava from Vienna?

Distance-wise, as the crow flies it’s around 40 miles between Vienna in the west and Bratislava to the east.  The Danube River curves, as do the highways, so the mileage will be closer to 50 miles for transportation.

Is it easy to cross the international border between Austria and Slovakia?

Both countries are European Union members, so there’s no issue.  You won’t have to show identification or passports or anything when you arrive.

Is it worth upgrading to the Captain’s Lounge on the Twin City Liner?

No.  If you’re with a group of friends and looking for an extra special experience, or seats around a table, then perhaps.

Otherwise, the boat ride is pretty much the same for all aboard. 

Is it Worth a Day Trip from Vienna to Bratislava?

For sure.  Vienna and Bratislava are just about an hour apart by train, bus, or boat, making it an easy and convenient day trip.

Plus, despite their geographic closeness, each city offers a unique cultural experience. Vienna is renowned for its imperial palaces, museums, and classical music heritage, while Bratislava has a more relaxed atmosphere with a charming medieval old town and vibrant local culture.

Both Vienna and Bratislava have walkable city centers, so visitors can explore major landmarks within a single day!

If you’re looking for another day trip from Vienna, I’d consider a visit to the Wachau Valley .