Grand Danube with Munich and Transylvania

Arrive from the UK and be met at the airport and transfer to your hotel in Munich. Later this evening you’ll have the chance to get to know your fellow travellers and Tour Director at a Welcome Reception. 

Enjoy a guided discovery of the Bavarian capital of Munich, regarded by many as Germany’s most beautiful city. See the famous Glockenspiel on the Town Hall and explore the historic city centre, home to the Frauenkirche, the city's most celebrated church. The afternoon is yours to relax at leisure or continue exploring at your own pace. This evening, you will be treated to a special dinner. 

Today, enjoy a day at leisure in Munich. Perhaps choose to join an optional full-day tour to Neuschwanstein and Linderhof castles; two of the most magnificent castles in Bavaria.

Enhance your Journey - Neuschwanstein and Linderhof castles

Meet your fellow travellers, before embarking on a coach trip towards the Bavarian Alps, first stopping at Linderhof Castle, a French rococo-style castle inspired by the palace of Versailles and surrounded by immaculately manicured gardens. Continue to the impressive Neuschwanstein Castle, which is perched on a cliff and nestled in the Bavarian Alps. Renowned for its stunning and romantic architecture, this fairy-tale like castle was the inspiration for Walt Disney’s ‘Sleeping Beauty’ Castle. Surrounded by mountains, forests and lakes, its interior is equally impressive with colourful murals and grand opulence. Note: Entrance to the castles is not included, and you have the option to purchase tickets for one or both of the castles during the tour.

Arrive in Munich, where you will be met and transferred to your river ship, docked on the Danube River.

Passau is a German city located in the Southeast of Germany on the Austrian border. It is situated at the confluence of the rivers Danube, Inn and Ilz. The Three Rivers City, as it’s also known, is unique for its three contrasting currents of blue, green and black. Old Town of Passau is home to towering buildings of striking architecture: the majestic fortress Veste Oberhaus, the Pilgrimage Church Mariahilf and St Stephen's Cathedral. Many of Passau’s attractions can be found in this area, including the New Bishop’s Residence, the Gothic Town Hall, as well as many churches and museums. Visitors can stroll along the riverfront promenades and romantic lanes whilst enjoying the picturesque landscape. For modern art, The Museum of Modern Art and Glass Museum Passau are recommended as they offer something a bit different. Theatre and cabaret are a popular evening pastime, with performances at the former Prince Bishopric Theatre or some lively cabaret and Jazz at the Scharfrichterhaus. Visitors will also find many traditional local Bavarian and Austrian cafes and restaurants offering a cosy atmosphere with home cooked food from local produce.

In the beautiful city of Passau, enjoy a guided walking tour through the cobbled lanes of the Altstadt, taking in its historic charm and architectural highlights. Then enjoy the Aldersbach Brewery Insider Experience.

Insider Experience - Aldersbach Brewery

Travel by coach to nearby Aldersbach brewery founded in 1268, where you'll be welcomed by local musicians and taken on a tour of the brewery. Afterwards, enter the festival hall to enjoy locally brewed beer with tastings of some local food, all in the spirit of Oktoberfest, with live music and singing.

Linz is a city in northern Austria located on both banks of the Danube River and is a short distance from Salzburg and Vienna. Linz has been awarded UNESCO City of Media Arts status and prides itself on offering a broad spectrum of events, activities and cultural institutions. Enjoy popular open air concert such as Klassik am Dom and extravagant street performances, which attract large crowds and popular international artists. Art galleries and centres are in abundance around the city as well as many museums housing international collections and depictions of the history and heritage of Linz. The architecture of the city also plays an important role in Linz’s cultural heritage with Main Square, Old Town and Mariendom Cathedral being some key attractions. Families will enjoy a trip to Postlingberg, located high up in the mountains and featuring a zoo, the Grottenbahn and spectacular views of the river and city below.

Today, choose how you’d like to explore. You may wish to join an optional tour to either Český Krumlov in the Czech Republic or Salzburg, or simply enjoy time at leisure in Linz.

Enhance Your Journey – Český Krumlov Visit

Enjoy a fascinating day excursion to the UNESCO-listed town of Český Krumlov, home to more than 300 historic buildings and a beautifully preserved medieval centre.

Enhance Your Journey – Salzburg Sights

Travel through Austria’s scenic countryside to Salzburg. Stop at Mondsee, where you’ll see the famous Wedding Church from The Sound of Music, before continuing to Salzburg for a guided tour of Mozart’s hometown. Enjoy free time to explore at your own pace before returning to the ship.

Dürnstein is a town located in the Northeast of Austria, situated on the Danube river. It is part of the UNESCO World Heritage site and wine region of Wachauer. It is a popular destination for wine lovers as many wineries offer accommodation. In addition to wine tasting and vineyard tours, visitors will find exploring the area on foot is easy and enjoyable. Take one of the many beautiful hiking trails across ancient rocks and admire the impressive views across the Danube valley. Children will enjoy exploring the outdoors of Dürnstein too, with outdoor playgrounds and theme trails available to keep them entertained. In addition, children and adults will enjoy Austria’s only outdoor biological swimming pool, Kuenringerbad, with an average temperature of 23 degrees celsius. Enjoy views of the town from overhead helicopter tours, leisurely river excursions, or hike up into the mountains and explore some of Dürnstein’s ruins. The mountains offer the ruins of Dürnstein castle and city wall as well as beautiful flora and fauna to spot.

Join a local guide to see Melk Abbey, an active Benedictine monastery since 1089. Cruise through the picturesque Wachau Valley, then continue to Dürnstein, where you have a free afternoon to explore. Perhaps join an optional tour to taste some of the region’s wine.

Enhance Your Journey – Wine Tasting

Visit Dürnstein Abbey, where you’ll savour a glass of the local Grüner Veltliner or riesling produced in the region, as well as delicious brandy.

Vienna is the capital and largest city of Austria. Located on the Danube River in the East of the country, the city is renowned for its strong music heritage and rich culture, and is the largest German speaking city in the world, outside of Berlin. In 2001, Vienna was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site and boasts magnificent architecture. The city is home to over 27 castles and 150 palaces including the symbolic Gothic St Stephen’s Cathedral and the iconic Schönbrunn Palace. Art and music are in abundance and all tastes are catered for. Live music venues offer everything from Rock to Opera. Enjoy world class performances at Vienna State Opera and experience the epicentre of international concert life at Musikverein. Modern and historical art can be found in indoor and outdoor spaces around the city, and a visit to the famous Kunsthistorisches Museum (KHM) is highly recommended. Enjoy views of the city from the Danube Tower and the Giant Ferris Wheel, then relax in the ample cosy coffee houses, cafes, bars and restaurants where traditional and international cuisines are served, as well as the locally produced wines.

Embrace the elegance of Vienna as you drive around the  Ringstrasse, taking in some of the city’s most famous buildings. On arrival in the centre, a walking tour will provide an insider’s view of sights such as St. Stephen’s Cathedral, the Graben and  Hofburg  Palace. Afterwards, perhaps visit the Naschmarkt and browse the stalls. This evening, you could enjoy an optional concert.

Enhance Your Journey – Mozart and Strauss Concert

Enjoy a Mozart and Strauss concert in one of Vienna’s palaces or concert venues, followed by an evening drive around the Ringtrasse.

Bratislava is the capital city of Slovakia and is located along the Danube a river on the borders of Austria and Hungary. The city is surrounded by the Little Carpathians Mountains and vineyards as well as its iconic reconstructed Bratislava Castle overlooking Old Town. The castle offers a picturesque view of the city, the neighbouring countries and is home to the Museum of History. Bratislava offers a blend of historic and modern attractions including the Old Town Hall, now home to the Bratislava City Museum, the UFO Bridge, Martin’s Cathedral, Michael’s Gate and Blue Church St Elizabeth’s. Bratislava is home to one of the oldest city parks in Central Europe and is popular with walkers, runners and cyclists as is the city forest park and foothills of the Carpathian Mountains. The city is popular for its locally brewed beers and has many micro-breweries and underground beer cellars. The local cuisine of Bratislava is an eclectic influence of European cultures including Slovak, Hungarian, Austrian and German and serves as a reminder of the history of this cosmopolitan city. However, visitors will find an array of offerings to suit all tastes with lunch being the main meal of the day and roast goose with lokse considered a signature dish of the area.

Today, discover Slovakia’s capital, Bratislava, on a walking tour through the Old Town where you will see St Martin's Cathedral, Primatial Palace and Main Square. You’ll also visit the only surviving example of the original four entrances to the city, Michael’s Gate. Tonight, celebrate the end of your river cruise with a Captain’s Farewell Dinner.

Budapest is the capital city of Hungary and is located over the River Danube. It is one of the largest cities in the European Union and much of its historical sites have been awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Originally formed in 1873 by the joining of Buda, Pest and Old Buda, the city suffered heavy destruction during World War II and was rebuilt into the country's political, cultural and commercial hub it is now. Bridges and railways connect the city over the Danube, including the six small islands situated on the river themselves. Some of Budapest’s UNESCO World Heritage sites include Chain Bridge, Budapest Parliament, the striking Matthias church and the iconic Royal Palace visible from every location within Budapest City. The Castle Hills district architecture represents over a thousand years of the city's history with examples of Roman, Turkish, Gothic, Renaissance and Art Nouveau styles. Budapest also has a rich Jewish heritage and is home to the largest synagogue in Europe. The city has an abundance of restaurants offering international cuisines, as well as traditional Hungarian dishes ,including goulash soup, a very popular lunchtime dish. Hungarians enjoy their coffee so a traditional cafe is never hard to find.

Awake to views of one of the Danube’s most enchanting cities this morning. Disembark and learn the vibrant history of Budapest as your local guide takes you to a host of impressive sights, including Heroes’ Square and St. Stephen’s Cathedral. Enjoy free time this afternoon to explore Budapest at your leisure, or perhaps join our fascinating optional excursion.

Enhance Your Journey – Hospital in the Rock

Tour this museum, once a World War II hospital, located in the caves beneath Buda Castle.

Budapest is the capital city of Hungary and is located over the River Danube. It is one of the largest cities in the European Union and much of its historical sites have been awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Originally formed in 1873 by the joining of Buda, Pest and Old Buda, the city suffered heavy destruction during World War II and was rebuilt into the country's political, cultural and commercial hub it is now. Bridges and railways connect the city over the Danube, including the six small islands situated on the river themselves. Some of Budapest’s UNESCO World Heritage sites include Chain Bridge, Budapest Parliament, the striking Matthias church and the iconic Royal Palace visible from every location within Budapest City. The Castle Hills district architecture represents over a thousand years of the city's history with examples of Roman, Turkish, Gothic, Renaissance and Art Nouveau styles. Budapest also has a rich Jewish heritage and is home to the largest synagogue in Europe. The city has an abundance of restaurants offering international cuisines, as well as traditional Hungarian dishes ,including goulash soup, a very popular lunchtime dish. Hungarians enjoy their coffee so a traditional cafe is never hard to find.

We have set aside a full day for you to explore more of this fascinating city at your leisure.

Budapest is the capital city of Hungary and is located over the River Danube. It is one of the largest cities in the European Union and much of its historical sites have been awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status. Originally formed in 1873 by the joining of Buda, Pest and Old Buda, the city suffered heavy destruction during World War II and was rebuilt into the country's political, cultural and commercial hub it is now. Bridges and railways connect the city over the Danube, including the six small islands situated on the river themselves. Some of Budapest’s UNESCO World Heritage sites include Chain Bridge, Budapest Parliament, the striking Matthias church and the iconic Royal Palace visible from every location within Budapest City. The Castle Hills district architecture represents over a thousand years of the city's history with examples of Roman, Turkish, Gothic, Renaissance and Art Nouveau styles. Budapest also has a rich Jewish heritage and is home to the largest synagogue in Europe. The city has an abundance of restaurants offering international cuisines, as well as traditional Hungarian dishes ,including goulash soup, a very popular lunchtime dish. Hungarians enjoy their coffee so a traditional cafe is never hard to find.

Enjoy the day at leisure to explore Budapest. You may wish to join an optional tour to discover Budapest's Great Market Hall, a must-visit attraction. Housed in a beautiful historic building dating back to the 19th century, the market is a paradise for food lovers and shoppers, where you can immerse yourself in Hungarian cuisine and local culture. Alternatively, you may wish to join an optional tour to the Hospital in the Rock Nuclear Bunker Museum, a hospital created in the caverns beneath Buda Castle in the 1940s during World War II, which later served as a nuclear bunker during the Cold War. This evening, delight in a Captain’s Farewell Dinner.

Enhance your Journey – Great Market Hall Tour

Embark on a culinary tour. Wander through this large market to discover a variety of Hungarian sausages, meats, cheeses, fruits and vegetables.

Enhance your Journey – Hospital in the Rock Nuclear Bunker Museum

Tour this museum, once a World War II hospital, located in the caves beneath Buda Castle.

From the sleepy port town of Mohács, history buffs will delight in the chance to travel to the ancient city of Pécs. As Hungary’s fifth-largest city, this World Heritage-listed site offers plenty in the way of sightseeing. Be sure to check out the copper domes of the Mosque of Pasha Qasim, as well as the 11th-century Pécs Cathedral. With the afternoon at leisure, you may wish to join an optional tour to Hungary’s renowned wine region in Villány for a wine tasting. 

Enhance your Journey – Villány Wine Tasting

Travel to Hungary’s renowned wine region in Villány, known for its red and rosé varieties. Visit a local winery for a tour and tasting.   

Begin a captivating exploration of Osijek, a vibrant city with a rich history. Wander through its picturesque cobblestone streets, where well-preserved 18th-century architecture offers a glimpse into the past. Discover key landmarks such as the iconic Holy Trinity Square and the stunning Saint Michael's Church. Later, continue to Vukovar, where you’ll enjoy a tasting of regional delicacies. Reboard your ship for a leisurely afternoon cruise towards Serbia.

In Serbia’s capital, embark on a guided tour of Belgrade. Visit the historic Belgrade Fortress, which offers stunning views over the confluence of the Danube and Sava rivers, and the Serbian Orthodox Temple of Saint Sava, one of the largest Orthodox churches in the world. Immerse yourself in traditional Serbian life during your Insider Experience, gaining insight into the local culture and customs.

Insider Experience – Village Farm and Slivovitz Tour

Visit a local family’s village, taking a tour of their home and barn to meet the resident farm animals. Stroll through the family’s fruit orchards to learn about the brewing process of slivovitz – a plum brandy that is Serbia’s national drink of choice.

Get ready to witness nature at its finest today as your ship cruises through the Iron Gates, a stunning natural wonder of lush forests, towering cliffs and rugged landscapes. This spectacular series of gorges connects Serbia and Romania, offering an unparalleled cruising experience.

Go ashore in Ruse, one of Bulgaria’s most elegant cities. Embark on a walking tour to admire the city’s Belle Époque architecture and beautifully manicured garden squares, which evoke the charm of Vienna. Along the way, you’ll pass Liberty Square, the courthouse, the Ruse Opera House, and Alexander Battenberg Square. The afternoon is yours to explore at leisure. You may choose to visit the Regional Museum of History, the National Transport Museum, or the ancient ruins of the Sexaginta Prista Fortress.

After breakfast, travel to your hotel in Brașov, stopping en route in the town of Sinaia for free time to enjoy lunch at your leisure.

This morning, travel to Bran Castle, also known as ‘Dracula’s Castle’. With a local guide, learn about its history as you walk through its many rooms and admire the 19th-century antiques. Return to Brașov and join a guided tour through its old streets, lined with well-preserved medieval architecture. Explore the colourful baroque buildings and Gothic masterpieces while enjoying the bustling ambiance of the cafés, restaurants and shops.

Journey to Bucharest and join a guided tour of this vibrant metropolis and cultural hub. Stroll along wide, tree-lined boulevards, past elegant Belle Époque buildings, before exploring the Old City centre, with highlights including the Royal Court, Stavropoleos Church and the lively Lipscani district.

Bucharest, in southern Romania, is the country's capital and commercial center. Its iconic landmark is the massive, communist-era Palatul Parlamentului government building, which has 1,100 rooms. Nearby, the historic Lipscani district is home to an energetic nightlife scene as well as tiny Eastern Orthodox Stavropoleos Church and 15th-century Curtea Veche Palace, where Prince Vlad III (“The Impaler”) once ruled.

Your adventure comes to an end today with a transfer to the airport.