Cruise Advice
Duration
7 Nights
Journey Type
Cruise only (Please call for flight options)
Ports
6 Ports
13-14 December
Setting sail from 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. Architectural highlights include the Spanish Riding School, the Schönbrunn Palace and the Hofburg, the sprawling former residence of the Habsburg royals. From mid-November the city's squares are transformed into magical Christmas markets, where fairy lights twinkle and the air is heady with aromas of sizzling sausage, gingerbread and Glühwein.
Don't miss
Schloss Schonbrunn, the Habsburgs' summer palace, with great gardens too. Just a few of the huge number of rooms are open – the Imperial Tour takes you into 26.
15 December
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.
16 December
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’.
17 December
Germany: Passau
The pretty Bavarian town of Passau, situated close to Germany’s border with Austria, enjoys a unique setting at the confluence of three rivers: the Inn, the Ilz and the Danube. The narrow cobbled streets of the handsome old town, the Altstadt, are quite delightful.
18 December
Germany: Regensburg
Originally founded by the Celts and later an important Roman settlement, Regensburg is one of Bavaria’s lesser known gems. Situated on the northernmost bend of the Danube, it’s a friendly and laid back city, with an exceptionally well preserved medieval centre.
19-20 December
Arriving in Nuremberg
Nuremberg, Bavaria's second city, first pops up in the history books in 1050 as a stronghold of the Franks, and later became the unofficial capital of the Holy Roman Empire. Nuremberg was also the centre of the German Renaissance, although in the 20th century it became associated with the Nazis; huge rallies were held here, and Nazi officials were later tried and convicted at the Nuremberg Trials. Happily Nuremberg has bounced back from those dark days, and nowadays the city is a tourist magnet thanks to the beautifully restored old town, Christmas markets and excellent beer.
Our tip
Nuremberg is completely rebuilt so has a bit of a Disneyesque feel to it. But this was a key centre for Hitler, so turn your back on toytown and visit the Documentation Centre (excellent exhibit) and Zeppelinfeld, where most of the big Nazi rallies took place.
Your home from home
Tauck’s most modern design, the Inspiration Class, offers the most space per guest of all European river vessels.
What we love
Rich woods are complimented by muted tones, giving these ships an airy and luxurious feel. The alternative restaurant with outside seating at the rear is an idyllic place for a relaxed lunch as you cruise to your next call and the regional cuisine served in the Dining Room is excellent.
| Capacity | 130 Guests |
|---|---|
| Staff | 43 International Staff |
| Style |
Active days followed by sophisticated evenings. |
| Inclusions |
|
| Length | 443 feet |
Tailor-make your trip
Ways to make it better
Where to stay in Nuremberg
We like the Drei Raben (Three Ravens) in the rebuilt old town.
See more of Austria
If you’ve got time, go to magical Salzburg too, you will love it.
