11 days from Prague to Budapest
From the splendor of Prague to the Gypsy violins of Budapest, you’ll treasure every moment of this memorable Danube River cruise.
Start your tour by exploring Prague, Czech Republic for a few days before joining your river cruise in captivating Nuremberg, Germany.
Embark your ship and sail through the fascinating Main Danube Canal, enjoy a guided visit of medieval Regensburg, tour Melk’s magnificent Benedictine Abbey, and experience the music, art, culture, and historical sites in romantic Vienna.
Ask about special Wine River Cruise Departure on Oct 27th.
Cruise extensions are available for the Oberammergau Passion Play (additional charges apply).
Itinerary highlights include:
Prague, Czech Republic
Welcome to Prague, capital of the Czech Republic. The city straddles the Vltava River with domes, cupolas, spires and pinnacles highlighting its skyline. The remainder of the day is free to start exploring.
Prague is a 1,000-year-old city preserved in time. See its best-known treasures such as the Old Town’s ASTRONOMICAL CLOCK, once the envy of all of Europe; HRADCANY CASTLE, St. Vitus Cathedral, and the Charles Bridge. Browse the shops for hand-cut crystal or art books. Mix with the locals in Wenceslaus Square or stroll along the Vltava River. (B)
You will also have a free day for you to explore the city at your own pace. Your Cruise Director will have other suggestions for things to do. (B)
Prague–Nuremberg, Germany (Embarkation)
After lunch, drive to Nuremberg, where your river cruise vessel is docked. Before dinner meet your crew for a WELCOME RECEPTION. (B,D)
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. Nuremberg’s traditions include its famous Lebkuchen, toy making, and metal working. (B,L,D)
Regensburg
Regensburg is one of Germany’s best preserved medieval cities. Architectural highlights included on your tour are the Old Town Hall, the beautiful white and gold OLD CHAPEL, and the 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. Before dinner we’ll introduce you to some of Germany’s FAMOUS BEERS! (B,L,D)
Passau–Linz, Austria
Passau, ideally located at the confluence of the Rivers Inn, Ilz, and Danube, is a city of graceful arcades and cobblestone streets. St. Stephen’s Cathedral houses the world’s largest church organ with more than 17,000 pipes. An optional full-day excursion to Salzburg takes in the popular Sound of Music sights. Linz, Austria’s third-largest town, lies on both banks of the Danube and is an important industrial town and busy river port. (B,L,D)
Day 9Melk–Vienna
Melk’s magnificent BENEDICTINE ABBEY dominates the town from its commanding hill site and is one of Europe’s largest monasteries. The view from the terrace over the Danube and surrounding countryside is breathtaking! This evening, arrive in Vienna, known as the “City of Music,” which inspired the creative genius of Mozart, Beethoven, and Strauss. An optional concert is available tonight. (B,L,D)
Vienna
Once the center of the mighty Habsburg Empire, Austria’s capital has much to offer: the lavish Hofburg Palace, the impressive Vienna Opera House, the majestic Ring Boulevard, and awe-inspiring St. Stephen’s Cathedral, to name just a few of the sights you will enjoy during your city tour. You do not rush through Vienna; you waltz, taking your time to savor each classic sight and sound. Shop in the Kärntnerstrasse and enjoy Sachertorte or Apfelstrudel in a neighborhood café. (B,L,D)
Budapest, Hungary
Budapest, spanning the banks of the Danube, is Eastern Europe’s liveliest and most cosmopolitan metropolis. Seven 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. Shop for renowned peasant embroidery, Herend porcelain, and paprika. (B,L,D)
INCLUDED FEATURES
Cruise: Deluxe 7-night cruise from Nuremberg to Budapest in an outside stateroom with hotel-style bedsPrague: Guided sightseeing, Astronomical Clock; visit Hradcany CastleNuremberg: Guided sightseeingMain Danube Canal: Cruise in the canalRegensburg: Guided sightseeing, visit the Old Chapel; beer tastingPassau: Guided sightseeingMelk: Guided visit of the Benedictine AbbeyVienna: Guided sightseeingBudapest: Guided sightseeing, visit Fishermen’s BastionNotes:
In the event of water level problems on stretches of any river, it may be necessary to operate part of the itinerary by motorcoach.
Please check visa requirements with your local consulate(s); responsibility for obtaining visas rests with the traveler.
Included visits and special features are subject to change. If a change becomes necessary, a substitute will be offered.
MEALS – (B) Breakfast (L) Lunch (D) Dinner
Buffet breakfast (B) in Prague; superb dining with all meals on board daily featuring full breakfast (B), lunch (L), and dinner (D), including a welcome reception, Captain’s reception, and farewell dinner; quality wines from Europe’s most famous wine regions with every dinner; one sitting with open seating arrangements; Complimentary wine, beer, or soft drinks with all onboard dinners; Complimentary coffee and tea available throughout the day
SUPERIOR HOTELS – (D) Deluxe (SF) Superior First-Class (F) First-Class
Prague Hilton (SF)
INSIDE VISITS
Inside visits and special features are shown in the description, including admission charges when applicable.
