Destination:
Austria,
Germany,
Hungary,
Duration:
8 days
Style:
River/Small ship/Barge,
Travel Period:
March 2028 - August 2028
Gallery
5+ Gallery Photos
7-night from Vilshofen to Budapest
Those longing for the romance of Old-World Europe will get to travel into the very heart of the continent, where empires were built, kings and queens were crowned and some of the world’s greatest music was composed and performed by the likes of Mozart and Beethoven. Grand European cities like Prague, Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest forever remain timeless. Admire the beauty of the Czech Republic’s charming mountain town, Ceský Krumlov. Visit one of Austria’s greatest wineries, Schloss Gobelsburg, which has a documented viticulture history dating back to the 12th century, and while there taste some of the greatest examples of Riesling and Grüner Veltliner wines in the world. From grand abbeys and fortresses perched high above the Danube to plentiful iconic UNESCO World Heritage Sites, be romanced by the Danube with all her regal and romantic splendor.What's Included
- Board your cruise ship in Vilshofen to begin your Romantic Danube cruise.
This afternoon, you’ll take part in an exclusive Oktoberfest celebration with traditional beer and Bavarian folk music and dancing. - Cruise to Passau, known as the “City of Three Rivers” where you’ll have the option to join a guided walking tour in the city; hike into the hills for a visit to the “Veste Oberhaus,” Passau’s Castle Hill; or take part in a River Inn bike tour.
- Arrive in Linz where you’ll have the option to choose from several activities. Choose to spend a full-day in nearby Salzburg, Austria on a tour that will take you through the city’s historic center, Mirabell Gardens, Residenz Square and the Old Market.
Or, opt for a full-day excursion to the charming Czech mountain town of Český Krumlov, where you’ll stroll its cobblestoned streets and admire views of Baroque and Renaissance buildings, followed by a tour of Krumlov Castle.
After these full-day tours, a brief walking tour in Linz is also available.
For those who choose not to join a full day excursion, spend your morning on a walking tour through Linz’s old city center and past the Mozart House OR a guided bike ride along the “Cultural Mile” and the Danube. In the afternoon, join a guided whiskey distillery tour. - Sail through the scenic Strudengau and UNESCO-designated Wachau Valley, known for its vineyard-lined hillsides and historic villages, ending in Weissenkirchen.
Arrive in Weissenkirchen, gateway to Dürnstein, and choose how you’d like to experience this iconic wine region. Your first option is to join a guided walking tour through Dürnstein, including a visit to Baroque Stiftskirche, Dürnstein’s famed church cloister tower.
For a more active adventure, opt for a hike up to the Kuenringer Castle, or “Dürnstein” (dry stone) castle from which Dürnstein derives its name.
Both allow for free time in Durnstein after your activity.
Leave Durnstein for a special wine tasting in Weissenkirchen, nestled in the Wachau Valley. Here, you’ll sample locally-grown Rieslings and Grüner Veltliners, known for their freshness, spice, and remarkable finesse. - Begin your day with a visit to the UNESCO-designated Melk Abbey, one of Europe’s most celebrated Baroque monasteries, known for its grand architecture, frescoes, and historic library. After your tour, enjoy free time to wander the village of Melk at your own pace.
Or, choose a more active morning with a guided bike ride through the Wachau Valley’s riverfront paths and vineyard-lined slopes.
Sail to Krems for a visit to Schloss Gobelsburg, one of Austria’s oldest wineries and formerly a Cistercian monastery. While visiting this beautiful castle, you’ll have the chance to explore the historic cellars and learn about centuries-old winemaking traditions before sampling a selection of their renowned Rieslings and Grüner Veltliners. - Spend your morning on a walking tour of Vienna’s most notable sites, including the Opera House, the former Imperial Palace, and St. Stephen’s Cathedral, ending in the historic city center. Alternatively, join a guided bike tour of the city’s attractions.
- Explore both sides of Budapest. Begin on the Buda side with a guided tour of the Castle District, including Fisherman’s Bastion, a panoramic viewpoint, and Matthias Church. Or, for a more active option, you can join a guided hike to Castle Hill.
- After a leisurely breakfast on board, you’ll disembark in Budapest and prepare for your flight home. Or, if you’ve opted to extend your trip with a stay in Budapest, our team will assist you with transfers to your hotel.
Your Itinerary
Day 1 - Vilshofen
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Day 2 - Passau
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Day 3 - Linz
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Day 4 - Wachau Valley
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Day 5 - Weissenkirchen
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Day 6 - Vienna
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Day 7 - Esztergom
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Day 8 - Budapest
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Dates & Pricing
Select your preferred date or enquire
Why book with RACT Travel?
Travel Partner
AmaWaterways is a premier river cruise line offering luxurious journeys through Europe, Asia, Africa, and South America. Known for exceptional service and innovative ship designs, they provide unforgettable travel experiences