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:

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)

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 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, 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)

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)

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 [...]]]>

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.

Fabulous Location – In the heart of St. Germain

Winter/Summer/Fall: Feb 1 - Sep 30, 2010 Nights/DaysPackage Price per personExtra Night per personTaxServiceTransfers 2/3$395.00/dbl On RequestIncludedIncludedNo Air conditined Superior room Buffet breakfast daily in restaurant Walking distance of the market and chic boutiques

One of the larges rooms in Paris!

Great location Ave. Montaigne, George V. and Champ Elysées 

Fabulous locations – 2 Blocks from Opera

Jan 2 - Dec 31 2010 Nights/DaysPackage Price per personExtra Night per personTaxServiceTransfers 3/4$450.00/dbl $150.00/dbl IncludedIncludedNo Air conditioner deluxe room Breakfast included 2 day museum pass

Very Chic – Elegant – Champs Elysée

Spring: Mar 1 - May 31, 2010 Nights/DaysPackage Price per personExtra Night per personTaxServiceTransfers 2/3275€/dbl 137,50€/dbl IncludedIncludedNo Air conditioner Superior room Upgrade to a deluxe room if is available Complimentary VIP Welcome pack

Located off the Champs-Elysees

2 nights & 3 days Mar 12- May 23 2010 € 335 euros per person dbl. Extra night € 173 euros per person Air conditioned standard room – tax & service Continental breakfast in room or restaurant Upgrade on availability on check in

Great Left Bank Location

Stay 4 nights and pay for 3 nights – Jan 1 – April 30 2010

air conditioned junior suite

full breakfast daily in the resturant, tax & service inc,

VIP welcome  newspaper daily € 456 Euros per person dbl.

Romance package 4 nights – valid all of 2010 4 nights in a junior suite. Breakfast daily in the restaurant Dinner cruise on the Seine.. Bateaux Parisiens Champagne on arrival. Round trip airport transfers. € 998 Euros per person dbl.

Mar 1 – Dec 31 2010

Air conditioned superior room (upgrade on availability on check in) Round trip chauffeur car airport transfers on arrival and departure American breakfast daily Complimentary open bar in lobby and mini bar in room Complimentary use of wellness center and sauna internet access. fruits & flowers on arrival All taxes & service

3 nights / 4 days – US dollar $1,070.00 per person/dbl 5 nights / 6 days -  US dollar $1,695.00 per person/dbl plus 2 day museum pass for 2

10 days from $ 3,490.00 plus air 2009 Itinerary

April 11th & 22nd May 2nd, 13 & 23rd June 3rd, 13th & 24th September 5th, 16th & 26th October 7th & 17th

Indulge yourself on a Greece tour that captures the heart and soul of this ancient land on an extraordinary journey through time. Delve into the world of the Byzantine Empire in fascinating Thessaloniki and visit the ancient Royal Macedonian Tombs in Vergina, where you’ll view treasures of the family of Alexander the Great. Marvel at the geological phenomenon of Méteora and visit inside two of the inspiring, centuries-old monasteries sitting high atop soaring towers of stone. See the legendary home of the god Apollo and the site of the oracle at Delphi. Explore the pleasures of the beautiful Peloponnese, where you’ll attend a tasting at Greece’s oldest winery, and spend two nights at a resort on the shores of the Ionian Sea. Walk through the playing fields and temple ruins of Olympia, birthplace of the ancient Olympic Games, and travel along the scenic Straits of Corinth. You’ll be awestruck by the glories of ancient Athens at its archaeological sites and museums – as well as by the Athens of today – during a two-night stay at a five-star luxury hotel where you can dine with views of the Acropolis… on a Greece tour that engages the mind, the senses, and the imagination!

Tauck’s Greece tour begins at 6:00 PM at the Electra Palace Hotel. A transfer is included from Thessaloniki International Airport to the Electra Palace Hotel, situated in Aristotle Square in the heart of the city. Please join us for a welcome cocktail reception and dinner overlooking the square and the Thermaic Gulf. Meals: Dinner Lodging: Electra Palace Hotel, Thessaloniki, Greece

Day 2: The Nymph of the Thermaic Gulf Called “the Nymph of the Thermaic Gulf” by some, Thessaloniki was founded around 315 BC and named for the sister of Alexander the Great. Begin the first full day of your Greece tour in this capital city of Macedonia with a walk through the nearby market. See the influence of many cultures at some of the city’s most famous monuments and sights, such as the Romans’ Triumphal Arch of Galerius, the 15th-century White Tower built by the Turks, and the 7th-century Agia Sophia, one of Europe’s most significant Byzantine structures. Discover many facets of the Byzantine period in the art and culture showcased at the impressive Museum of Byzantine Culture, which received the prestigious Council of European Museums Prize in 2005. The afternoon is yours to explore more of Greece’s “second city” on your own; tonight, sample regional Greek cuisine during dinner at a popular local restaurant. Note: On Saturday departures of this Greece tour, day 2 and day 3 sightseeing is reversed. Meals: Breakfast, dinner Lodging: Electra Palace Hotel, Thessaloniki, Greece

Day 3: Traces of a saint and a king There are over 45 barn-like Byzantine-era churches, many of which feature extensive frescoes, in the small city of Veria, where you’ll see the historic Steps of St. Paul, at a spot where tradition has it that the saint once preached. Then, continue on to Vergina, the ancient first capital of the Kingdom of Macedonia. Formerly known as Aigai, it was the seat of King Philip II, father of Alexander the Great, who was assassinated in 336 BC. Your Greece tour [...]]]>

10 days from $ 3,490.00 plus air
2009 Itinerary

April 11th & 22nd
May 2nd, 13 & 23rd
June 3rd, 13th & 24th
September 5th, 16th & 26th
October 7th & 17th

Indulge yourself on a Greece tour that captures the heart and soul of this ancient land on an extraordinary journey through time. Delve into the world of the Byzantine Empire in fascinating Thessaloniki and visit the ancient Royal Macedonian Tombs in Vergina, where you’ll view treasures of the family of Alexander the Great. Marvel at the geological phenomenon of Méteora and visit inside two of the inspiring, centuries-old monasteries sitting high atop soaring towers of stone. See the legendary home of the god Apollo and the site of the oracle at Delphi. Explore the pleasures of the beautiful Peloponnese, where you’ll attend a tasting at Greece’s oldest winery, and spend two nights at a resort on the shores of the Ionian Sea. Walk through the playing fields and temple ruins of Olympia, birthplace of the ancient Olympic Games, and travel along the scenic Straits of Corinth. You’ll be awestruck by the glories of ancient Athens at its archaeological sites and museums – as well as by the Athens of today – during a two-night stay at a five-star luxury hotel where you can dine with views of the Acropolis… on a Greece tour that engages the mind, the senses, and the imagination!

Tauck’s Greece tour begins at 6:00 PM at the Electra Palace Hotel. A transfer is included from Thessaloniki International Airport to the Electra Palace Hotel, situated in Aristotle Square in the heart of the city. Please join us for a welcome cocktail reception and dinner overlooking the square and the Thermaic Gulf.
Meals: Dinner
Lodging: Electra Palace Hotel, Thessaloniki, Greece

Day 2: The Nymph of the Thermaic Gulf
Called “the Nymph of the Thermaic Gulf” by some, Thessaloniki was founded around 315 BC and named for the sister of Alexander the Great. Begin the first full day of your Greece tour in this capital city of Macedonia with a walk through the nearby market. See the influence of many cultures at some of the city’s most famous monuments and sights, such as the Romans’ Triumphal Arch of Galerius, the 15th-century White Tower built by the Turks, and the 7th-century Agia Sophia, one of Europe’s most significant Byzantine structures. Discover many facets of the Byzantine period in the art and culture showcased at the impressive Museum of Byzantine Culture, which received the prestigious Council of European Museums Prize in 2005. The afternoon is yours to explore more of Greece’s “second city” on your own; tonight, sample regional Greek cuisine during dinner at a popular local restaurant. Note: On Saturday departures of this Greece tour, day 2 and day 3 sightseeing is reversed.
Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Lodging: Electra Palace Hotel, Thessaloniki, Greece

Day 3: Traces of a saint and a king
There are over 45 barn-like Byzantine-era churches, many of which feature extensive frescoes, in the small city of Veria, where you’ll see the historic Steps of St. Paul, at a spot where tradition has it that the saint once preached. Then, continue on to Vergina, the ancient first capital of the Kingdom of Macedonia. Formerly known as Aigai, it was the seat of King Philip II, father of Alexander the Great, who was assassinated in 336 BC. Your Greece tour is enhanced by a visit to the Royal Macedonian Tombs – a UNESCO World Heritage Site preserving the tombs of the king and other members of his family, and displying antiquities found at the site, considered to be among the greatest treasures in Greece. After lunch, take in the beauty of the Greek countryside on a journey to Kalambaka, for an overnight stay close to the rock-top monasteries of Meteora.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Lodging: Divani Meteora Hotel, Kalambaka, Greece

Day 4: Monastic marvels of Meteora
Travel to the amazing geological phenomenon of Meteora, whose name literally means “hovering in the air,” today. As incredible as it may seem, these soaring stone towers have been the homes of monks since 985 AD. The earliest monks lived in caves in the rock and eventually 24 monasteries were built atop the towers, accessible only by ladders and baskets raised and lowered by ropes until the 1920s. Legend has it that a traveler about to be hauled aloft in a basket asked a monk if the ropes were ever replaced. “Of course,” replied the monk, “every time one breaks.” Today, six of these miraculous monasteries – now reached by steep steps instead of baskets – remain in active use; a visit to two of them reveals what monastic life is like there today. Viewing the religious treasures and artifacts they contain, as well as the stunning views seen from their lofty perches, is indeed an inspirational experience during your Greece tour, which continues on across the heart of the country en route to a two-night stay in the village of Arachova on the slopes of Mount Parnassus, near the archaeological site of Delphi.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Lodging: Santa Marina Arachova, Greece

Day 5: And, the Oracle says…
Visiting Delphi with an open mind can be an intriguing experience on any Greece tour. Considered the center of the known world by the ancient Greeks, mystical Delphi is perhaps best known as the home of the oracle of Delphi and its guiding spirit, the god Apollo. In the ancient world, supplicants sought advice from the spirit of Apollo via the oracle… just as some people still do today. “Walk with the gods” as you explore the Sanctuary of Apollo, the home of the priestess who “channeled” the oracle, the Gymnasium and the Castalian Spring, where pilgrims tidied up before consulting the oracle. A visit to the Delphi Museum provides further insights into this fascinating place. The afternoon is free for you to sample the recreational facilities available at your hotel, or enjoy the mountain village of Arachova.
Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Lodging: Santa Marina Arachova, Greece

Day 6: Pleasures of the Peloponnese
As your Greece tour continues, a drive along the coast of the Gulf of Corinth reveals olive groves and delightful resort villages en route to the Straits of Corinth and the modern engineering marvel of the new Rio-Antirio Bridge. The renowned Achaia Clauss Winery, where the Imperial cellars hold casqued wine dating from the 1880s – the second-oldest in the world – awaits with a tasting which features Mavrodaphne, a fortified dessert wine used for communion in Greece’s Orthodox churches. Wind your way along the Peloponnese to your beach resort and spa, inspired by Kyllini’s thermal springs, for a two-night stay on the shores of the Ionian Sea.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Lodging: Olympia Riviera Resort, Kyllini, Greece

Day 7: And the games began…
While, in antiquity, it was considered to be a sacred site and known as the Sanctuary of Zeus, ancient Olympia is better known today as the birthplace of the Olympic Games. A visit to Olympia’s treasure-filled Archaeological Museum begins this remarkable day on your Greece tour. Then experience the wonders of this archeological site with a local guide on a “walk through time,” viewing the Palestra (the training facility for ancient athletes), and the remains of Doric temples, council houses, treasuries, workshops, and playing fields. Although women were not allowed in ancient Olympia at all during the ancient games (which began around 776 BC), the site was the venue for the women’s shot put competition during the Athens Olympic Games in 2004. Complete your exploration by discovering the history of the Games at the Museum of the Olympics, before returning for this evening’s memorable cooking demonstration by one of the resort’s fine chefs, followed by dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Lodging: Olympia Riviera Resort, Kyllini, Greece

Day 8: Corinthian capers en route to Athens
Drink in lovely views as your Greece tour continues with a drive along the gorgeous coastal route through the northern Peloponnese – past mountainous landscapes dominated by rugged peaks and azure seas – to the beautiful Straits of Corinth, en route to Athens. View the impressive Corinth Canal, built between 1881 and 1893, that cuts through the Isthmus of Corinth connecting the Gulf of Corinth and the Saronic Gulf in the Aegean Sea. Upon arriving in the Greek capital, Athens, this afternoon, visit the city’s new Acropolis Museum. Your home for the next two nights is a true Athens landmark, a five-star luxury hotel in the heart of the city, not far from the Acropolis and other places you read about in school!
Meals: Breakfast
Lodging: Hotel Grande Bretagne, Athens, Greece

Day 9: Amazing Athens
The Athens of antiquity and the Athens of today are an intriguing contrast on your Greece tour today, beginning with a guided walking tour up to the center of one of the greatest civilizations on earth, whose treasures have survived for more than 2,000 years – the Acropolis, home to the Parthenon! Centuries intermingle on a city sightseeing tour including Constitution (Syntagma) Square, the House of Parliament, and the Presidential Palace. Take a look inside the Panathenaic Stadium; originally built in 330 BC and remade in marble in 140 AD, it was refurbished for the first Olympic Games of the modern age in 1876 and served as the venue for the archery competition at the 2004 Athens Games. Then, view some of the many treasures exhibited at the National Archaeological Museum of Athens, and have lunch on your own in the famous Pláka before exploring more of the city as you please. Celebrate the conclusion of your memorable Greece tour when you join us tonight for a gala farewell cocktail party and dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Lodging: Hotel Grande Bretagne, Athens, Greece

Day 10: Homeward Bound
Your Greece tour ends in Athens. Fly home anytime. A transfer is included from the Hotel Grande Bretagne to Athens’ Eleftherios Venizelos International Airport. Please allow at least 2 1/2 hours for check-in formalities. We wish you a safe and pleasant journey home!
Meals: Breakfast

Experience the wonders of this ancient land on Tauck’s truly extraordinary Greece tour in 2009!