2 July
Setting sail from Budapest
Budapest is one of Eastern Europe's most appealing cities, a vibrant and welcoming capital that straddles the Danube. The history of Budapest has been somewhat turbulent - ransacked by the Mongols in 1241, occupied by the Ottoman Turks for over a century, and almost flattened by the Soviets in 1945 - but plenty of older buildings survive, including the imposing Parliament and iconic St Stephen's Basilica. Although a pedant might point out that Budapest has only really existed since 1873; up until then the city's two distinct halves, Buda and Pest, were separate towns.
Our tip
Hungarian cuisine is vastly underrated; don’t visit Budapest without trying goulash, the paprika-infused national dish.
3 July
Slovakia: Bratislava
Bratislava, Slovakia’s quaint little capital, straddles the Danube close to the border with Austria and Hungary. The compact old town is the best place to begin your exploration, before heading up to the hilltop castle for commanding views of the city and surrounding countryside.
4 July
Austria: Melk
The riverside village of Melk is best known for its spectacular abbey, a Baroque masterpiece that dominates the landscape. A Benedictine abbey was first established here in 1089, and the 18th century reconstruction that you can see today is still a working monastery.
5 July
Austria: Linz (Salzburg)
The city of Linz is included on river cruise itineraries due to its proximity to Salzburg, which is where you’ll most likely be headed. Salzburg’s Altstadt attracts millions of visitors every year with its fairytale skyline of domes and spires, and the city is renowned as both the birthplace of Mozart and the setting for ‘The Sound of Music’.
6-7 July
Austria: Vienna
Formerly the centre of the Habsburg Empire, Vienna is as grand a European capital as you can imagine, jam packed full of thrusting, bombastic buildings that stand as a reminder of Austria’s glorious imperial heyday.
8-9 July
Arriving in Budapest
Don't miss
If you are a music lover, you can’t miss a performance at the Opera House – affordable, and great music in a wonderful building.
Cruise Line Offer
Your fare includes: 7 nights in a Category E Stateroom including; all meals, drinks, gratuities and taxes; choice of excursions; international flights; overseas transfers; up to £2,095 per stateroom saving and FREE gratuities when you book by 6th December 2024.
Your home from home
What we love
These innovative ships feature a heated sun deck swimming pool with swim up bar and large 'twin balconies' in many staterooms. Enjoy the informal style during the day whilst relaxing on the Sundeck, and in the evening indulge in the gourmet cuisine in the main dining room or The Chef's Table.
Capacity | 156 - 162 Guests |
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Crew | 49 European Staff |
Style | Relaxed and informal during the day, giving way to an elegant evening atmosphere. |
Inclusions |
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Tailor-make your trip
Our favourite hotel in Budapest
We like the Hotel Palazzo Zichy on the Pest side of the river, which used to be the residence of Count Nándor Zichy.
A taste of Hungary
If you’re a wine lover, you really should visit the world’s oldest classified wine region, known for its sweet Tokaji aszú dessert wine.