danube cruise from vienna

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Danube Cruises from Vienna

A cruise adventure starting in Vienna is a great way to see Danube. We have 47 tours that range from 4 days up to 17 days. The most popular time for tours from Vienna is July, which has the most cruise departures.

47 Danube river cruises from Vienna with 122 reviews

• River Cruise

The beautiful blue Danube (port-to-port cruise)

"The Danube is wonderful to cruise on. The tours were great and the food was of excellent quality." Alfie, traveled in July 2023

Blue Danube cruise, Vienna-Vienna, MS Fidelio

Danube Classics Vienna 2024 (8 destinations)

"Food was good and lots of it, the cabin was clean and comfortable. We had a great holiday!" Nicholas, traveled in April 2023

8 days - Imperial Danube (Vienna - Budapest - Vienna, MS Crucestar 4*)

"Vessel was clean and comfortable. Great value for the price." kathleen, traveled in October 2022

Danube Classics Vienna 2024 (6 destinations)

Danube Capitals "B" Dutch Grace Superior Deluxe

Danube Capitals "B" Dutch Grace Superior Suite

From the Blue Danube to the Black Sea (port-to-port cruise) (11 destinations)

"Crosieurope had nice food, plenty of beer and wine, very clean boat - both inside and out." Anna, traveled in April 2023

Authentic Danube & Prague (2024) (Vienna to Prague, 2024)

"Good accommodations, service, safety, excursions, and food overall. At least having her phone number would have been useful." rose, traveled in August 2022

Authentic Danube (2024) (Vienna to Nuremberg, 2024)

What people love about danube cruises from vienna.

The tour was very good, the crew were excellent, very helpful, approachable and informative and always available. The tours were great and the Danube is wonderful to cruise on. The food was of excellent quality but the fact that there was no choice on the menu was poor and we feel there should have been an earlier sitting for dinner, and lunch could have been a buffet. The accommodation was adequate but the shower was totally inadequate. We enjoyed the cruise

Al-Rosa did an excellent job. Food was good and lots of it, the cabin was clean and comfortable. The staff were always friendly and helpful and Sabrina did a great job of looking after everyone and made sure that we were always at the right place at the right time. The tours were great and we enjoyed our evenings in the lounge with music and quizzes by Erich. We had a great holiday!

This tour was wonderful. Hit all the highlights. Definitely recommend.

Tours starting from Vienna

• Vienna to Vienna tours (22)
• Vienna to Nuremberg tours (8)
• Vienna to Bucharest tours (5)
• River Cruise from Vienna (47)
• Family from Vienna (41)
• Danube River Cities: Everything You Need to Know

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Vienna River Cruise Guide: A Warning, And 6 Best Boat Trips

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[todaysdate format=”F Y”]    Vienna River Cruise : Much like choosing a restaurant, cruising the Vienna Danube opens up a confusing choice. Do you prefer lush scenery over contemporary architecture? Enjoy the thrill of high speed transport or rather an elegant cruise ship, or chilling in a tiny ‘Zille’? One thing is for sure: You need to be selective to enjoy a boat ride on Donau.

Why Not All Vienna River Cruises Tick The Box

Contrary to Johann Strauss’s Danube waltz and most boat tour operators, the Danube river in Vienna isn’t always as scenic as you may expect, let alone of blue color. Unlike in Budapest, the Danube does not cross the city center. Instead, it separates the 2nd district Leopoldstadt from the 21st district of Floridsdorf. This means that a city cruise on the Danube usually introduces guests to the industrial charms of Handelskai in Leopoldstadt, and the contemporary high-rise buildings of Donau City on the Floridsdorf side. Hence, most city cruises include the more central Danube Canal, which highlights more landmarks. If you consider a Vienna river cruise, just adapt your expectations and go for a short evening cruise with soft light.

If you ask me, the best location for a truly scenic Danube river tour is UNESCO World Heritage site Wachau Valley. A top alternative is to travel to Bratislava, where you can choose between a majestic Danube cruise along the whole Vienna stretch to Bratislava, and an exciting high speed catamaran whizz. Here is my boiled down guide to the best boat trips on the Donau.

1. City Evening Cruise

Along the Danube canal, Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser’s Kunsthaus adds fun, and the most relaxing sites are the Prater woodlands and Danube Island. Do also watch out for Otto Wagner’s modernist Schützenhaus, and the Zaha Hadid-designed university library. On top, you’ll get to try the Otto-Wagner designed lock at Nussdorf!

2. Private Yacht Trip On The Danube

Far from the experience of a large cruise ship, this 3-hour yacht ride connects you more deeply with the surroundings of the Danube. At a pier in the 19th district you’ll step aboard. As you glide along the river, you’ll navigate the historical Nussdorf lock and enter the Danube canal, until you reach Schwedenplatz in the heart of the city. During the standard three-hour tour your round trip on the Vienna Danube and the Danube Canal will cover all the key sights. Perfect for a group of up to 7 people you can book this ride for a minimum of three and up to six hours. Read more.

3. Electric Sofa Boat On The Old Danube

Not only are these electric boats quiet and sustainable their quirky designs and large sofas make them extremely comfortable, and an easy platform to take a plunge into the waters on a hot summer day. Read my review.

4. Kayaking On The Old Danube

One of the best ways to experience the Old Danube along with tiny Gänsehäufel island, a lake shore café and the weekend log cabins of local residents is kayaking. During this private tour your certified open-water lifeguard will take you to the best spots. Between May and September the water is perfect for a swim, so do take your swimsuits with you. Find out more.

5. Wachau boat trip

6. Quick Vienna To Bratislava Boat Ride

Definitely, we found we had more than enough time in Bratislava to do sightseeing. Read my story about our catamaran ride and mini danube cruise .

Vienna to Budapest

Note: The Vienna river cruise hydrofoil service has been suspended. There is a six hour Danube cruise   that takes you from Vienna to Budapest and back on a high speed hydrofoil. This is the fastest of all boat trips between the two cities. It is a good option for people who want a day cruise on the Danube and visit Budapest. Added benefit: You are free to explore both cities at your own speed and taste. Go here for a review and more information on the  hydrofoil Vienna – Budapest .

About The Danube River

In Vienna, the Danube was regulated in the 1870ies to prevent Austria’s capital from being flooded. The original Danube bed was transformed into the Old Danube (Alte Donau), now a lake. South of it, the new Danube river bed was created. The long and narrow Danube Island (Donauinsel) separates the Danube from the New Danube (Neue Donau). Explore the best places on the Wiener Donau in my Vienna Danube insider guide.

Map Of Vienna Danube From Wachau To Budapest

The river danube map below highlights the area  between the Wachau Valley and Budapest . Click on the placemarks below for more information about the marked cities and areas.

go to Wachau Valley Tour  Review – Wine And Danube visit  Wachau Tour  – Wine Tasting And Danube Biking find out about a  Burgenland Wine Tour – Wine Tasting Near Vienna check  Vienna Wineries   – Heuriger Guide and Map by Two Natives go to Seegrotte Tour  Review – Europe’s Largest Underground Lake for easy sightseeing go t   Vienna Sights   by Car – What To See On A Private Sightseeing Tour explore  Vienna Travel Planning – Trip Planning and Travel Consulting by Vienna Unwrapped

back to What To Do In Vienna back to Vienna Unwrapped homepage

A Magic Night At A Vienna Summer Opera: Klosterneuburg

Vienna Summer Opera. When Viennese opera houses close for the season an open air opera …

The Blue Danube River Cruise with Vienna Extension

11 days from only $3,358pp

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• Useful Info

Accommodation

FREE Superior drinks package on all European river cruises

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Experience more with so much included

• Tour the most historic towns and cities along the Danube, including guided tours of Vienna, Dürnstein, Budapest and Bratislava.

Visit Esztergom Basilica, Melk Abbey, Schönbrunn Palace and the Vienna State Opera House.

Explore Salzburg or Linz with an expert guide on a tour of the town's most interesting sights.

Experience in the local culture with a Hungarian folklore show and a traditional Heurigen evening and enjoy a live classical music performance on board with stunning views of Vienna.

Feel the wind in your hair on a horse-drawn carriage ride through Neusiedlersee with wine-tasting and lunch. 

Soak up all that Europe’s most cultured river has to offer, with its wealth of grand baroque architecture, medieval cities, picture perfect towns and the sights that inspired Strauss and Mozart.  

From Budapest, we slip our moorings and head on our journey north to Esztergom spending the morning exploring its historic centre, which once was Hungary’s capital, before continuing westwards to the beautiful old town of Bratislava, the capital of Slovakia. Navigating through Lower Austria we then reach the romantic town of Dürnstein, where Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned, having been shipwrecked on his return from the crusades. After we visit the remarkable monastery in Melk, with its Emperor’s Gallery, lined with portraits of Austrian emperors. Soon we arrive in Linz where you’ll discover its baroque old town on a guided tour. Alternatively, take the short drive to Salzburg and enjoy a guided tour of the old town. We will reach classical Vienna, and see the Spanish riding school. Finally, cruising into Hungary, we arrive back in imperial Budapest, straddling the picturesque Danube. This holiday is ideal for travelers who love culture, music and architecture. 

End this spectacular adventure with a three-night stay in central. During our time on shore, we'll ride through the stunning natural beauty of Neusiedlersee on a horse and carriage. And explore Schönbrunn Palace on a guided tour, following in the footsteps of Emperors through the imperial apartments before saying goodbye to one of Europe's most opulent cities.

Your Itinerary

• DAY 1 ARRIVAL IN BUDAPEST
• DAY 2 ESZTERGOM
• DAY 3 BRATISLAVA
• DAY 4 DÜRNSTEIN & MELK
• DAY 5 SALZBURG OR LINZ
• DAY 6 VIENNA
• DAY 7 BUDAPEST
• DAY 8 NEUSIEDLERSEE
• DAY 9 SCHÖNBRUNN PALACE
• DAY 10 VIENNA
• DAY 11 RETURN HOME

ARRIVAL IN BUDAPEST

You fly to Budapest, where a coach takes you to your cruise ship. The dedicated crew are there to welcome you on board, ensuring you settle in and familiarise yourself with this first-class floating hotel. There’s always a sense of expectancy and excitement on the eve of a cruise and, after an excellent dinner in the stylish restaurant, conversation is sure to revolve around the delights ahead.

Overnight we have cruised upstream to Esztergom, one of Hungary’s oldest towns, a royal capital during medieval times and today the seat of the country’s archbishop. We have a guided tour of the famous neoclassical basilica, standing sentinel over the Danube on the border with Slovakia, and boasting one of the world’s largest altarpieces and a wealth of priceless religious artefacts. The castle is also worth exploring; it was the seat of government until the Ottomans invaded in the 16th century.

Nestling below are myriad atmospheric churches resonating with the enchanting sounds of choir; this is the best of provincial Hungary and is little changed since Habsburg times. As you enjoy your first lunch on board we gently leave Esztergom in our wake, affording a fascinating opportunity to compare the different landscapes, towns and villages of Hungary on one river bank and of Slovakia on the other.

This morning we explore Slovakia’s fast-emerging capital city, Bratislava, on a guided tour. Until recently swathed in the drab uniformity of Communism, the city has rekindled the splendour of its imperial past in its beautifully restored Old Town. Equally impressive is the imposing 17th-century castle commanding expansive views across the Danube.

This afternoon we cruise into Lower Austria, a peaceful, bucolic region and home to some of the country’s best wines. By now the stresses of everyday life seem distant as you absorb the ever-changing scenes we pass: children playing on the river banks, young couples strolling arm in arm like generations before them, vignerons carefully pruning their vines, and cobbled quaysides lined by half-timbered buildings.

You’ll marvel as the Captain skilfully navigates the ship along the serene river and through locks whose mechanisms never cease to fascinate, as we cruise towards Dürnstei

DÜRNSTEIN & MELK

Durnstein is known principally for the ice-blue tower of its abbey, which dominates the view, and the castle where Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned in 1192 after being shipwrecked on his return from the crusades. This morning we take a guided walking tour to explore this memorable city further. Set on a rocky outcrop high above the river, the castle is now ruined, but it’s easy to imagine England’s legendary monarch seething with frustration far from home, while waiting for his family to raise funds to pay his ransom.

After lunch you visit the remarkable Melk Abbey. Nothing quite prepares you for your first sight of this enormous honey-coloured building, standing resplendent above the surrounding countryside. Originally a castle, it was gifted to the Benedictine Order in the 11th-century and, although reconstructed in Baroque style during the 18th century, it has remained a monastic school and monastery ever since. The Abbey is renowned for its 214-yard-long Emperor’s Gallery lined with portraits, many fine rooms and an ornate library. After we re-join the ship, dinner is served during the final part of our cruise upstream through the pretty Nibelungengau, immortalised in the music of Wagner. 

SALZBURG OR LINZ

Reaching Linz, you will have the choice to stay in the city and take a guided walking tour, exploring its charming baroque old town. At its heart you’ll see one of the finest squares in Austria, lined by grand pastel-coloured facades with an impressive central Trinity Column of white marble, crowned by a gilded sunburst. There’s also the fortress-like castle, built high above the city by Emperor Friedrich III, now a museum housing a fine collection of nineteenth and twentieth-century artworks.

Alternatively, we drive to Salzburg, once an independent state whose archbishops turned it into one of the most sophisticated cities north of the Alps. Dominating the skyline is one of Europe’s largest stone fortresses, the Hohensalzburg, while beneath its walls church domes and spires rise from the delightful Altstadt, or Old Town. Then there’s the wonderful Hellbrunn Palace and the splendid formal gardens of the Mirabell Palace – a must for horticulture fans.

This morning, discover some of the city’s main sights in the company of an expert local guide, then you’re free to explore as you wish. Everywhere there are sights associated with the city’s most famous resident, Mozart, who played the harpsichord aged three, composed rudimentary music at five and wrote his first opera when he was 11!

Please note lunch is not included on this full day excursion to Salzburg; however, the ship will offer a packed lunch. We return to the ship for another splendid dinner.

For many, today’s visit to Vienna will be one of the highlights of the cruise. The city’s very name provokes images of elegance, fine music, wide boulevards, Baroque architecture and a rich tapestry of peoples who were drawn here from all corners of Europe. For 200 years until the First World War, Vienna was the cultural centre of Europe and many of the showpiece buildings, galleries, aristocratic palaces and magnificent churches you see today were built to reflect its imperial status. The city’s most iconic monument is the breathtaking Saint Stephen’s Cathedral, whose striking multi-coloured roof and huge Gothic South Tower dominate the skyline. There’s also the colossal Hofburg, the former royal court that is now home to a collection of museums, the Crown Jewels and the Spanish Riding School, and where the Vienna Boys’ Choir performs. Then there are the lavish Imperial Apartments and an outstanding collection of relics of the Holy Roman Empire, including, allegedly, the sabre of Charlemagne himself. The Kunsthistorisches Museum, which contains the world’s fourth largest collection of paintings, is just across the road. This morning we have a tour with a local guide offering insights into why Vienna is one of Europe’s great capitals – the seat of the Habsburg emperors and home to some of the world’s finest classical composers, including Beethoven, Brahms, Mozart and, of course, a whole family of Strausses.

During the afternoon you’re free to explore as you wish. Take a stroll in the Prater, notable for the huge Ferris wheel that features in several Cold War spy thrillers. Or, for something quite different, visit the Schönbrunn Palace, a former royal residence now housing a range of world-class museums and galleries. Perhaps, though, just take a stroll through Vienna’s atmospheric side streets, or enjoy a coffee and a slice of delicious Sachertorte in one of the lovely coffee houses.

This evening we’ve arranged truly the ‘icing on the cake’: You have the wonderful Captains Dinner and no visit to Vienna is complete without a live musical experience, so after dinner we have a classical recital on board. To hear this exquisite music played in the city of its creation makes a wonderful finale to the day.

Enjoy a leisurely morning as we cruise majestically through Hungary’s peaceful pastoral landscape towards Budapest. After lunch we enjoy a sightseeing tour of this captivating city, which truly lives up to its reputation as the ‘Pearl of the Danube’. The twin cities of Buda, built around the hilltop fortress, and Pest, with its wide boulevards, were fought over through the centuries. The Ottomans ruled here for 150 years before being ousted in the late 17th century, but their legacy lives on in the many thermal baths fed by hot springs, giving rise to Budapest’s other sobriquet – the ‘City of Spas’. After the end of Ottoman rule, Budapest became an imperial city of the Habsburg Empire, attracting great cultural and commercial wealth. Castle Hill is Budapest in microcosm: two churches, seven museums and a theatre among streets and squares with their own special atmosphere and a dramatic view across the river to the awe-inspiring neo-Gothic Parliament Building. Budapest’s endless galleries, museums, outstanding Art Nouveau architecture and excellent shopping offer a fittingly elegant end to your Danube cruise.

This evening’s Gala Dinner closes with a Hungarian folklore show, giving you time to bid farewell to your travelling companions and reflect on all the inspirational places, sights and sounds you have experienced on a truly ‘imperial’ cruise.

NEUSIEDLERSEE

This morning, we'll disembark in Budapest and journey to Neusiedlersee. The region of Neusiedlersee, located on the border between Austria and Hungary, is home to a picturesque lake - the second-largest steppe lake in Europe. The lake is a haven for nature enthusiasts due to its reed beds and wetlands, which provide a habitat for a variety of wildlife. It is also a popular destination for those seeking adventure, as it offers activities like bird watching, sailing, and cycling. And wine enthusiasts will already know that the region is famous for its fruity red wines which you’re invited to sample today with a lunch and wine tasting at a local winery.

First, we visit the wine cellars and learn about wine production here. Then we enjoy authentic Austrian cuisine with specialities from the region to accompany the samples of a sophisticated range of fruity whites, strong reds and mouth-watering sweet wines.

After our wine tasting, we'll take off on a horse-drawn carriage ride in the Neusiedlersee region with a local guide. Feel the wind in your hair as we ride through the meadows and vineyards along its shore and experience the stunning natural beauty of the lake. The rhythmic clip-clop of the horses' hooves lull you into a serene sense of zen that’s unreachable at home, allowing you to simply relax and appreciate the enchanting surroundings. This traditional mode of transportation offers a unique and nostalgic experience and creates lasting memories of this enchanting region.

We'll arrive in Vienna this afternoon and settle into our centrally located hotel, where we stay for three nights.

SCHÖNBRUNN PALACE

We'll explore Schönbrunn Palace - the most popular sight in Vienna. Experience the opulence of the Habsburg dynasty and explore the stunning architecture, richly furnished rooms and expansive garden of this UNESCO World Heritage site. While the palace was commissioned in the 17th century by Emperor Leopold I, it was Empress Marie Theresa who transformed it into the Palace we see today. 

On the imperial tour, we'll see the grandeur of Austria's imperial history, walking in the footsteps of Empress Maria Theresa and Emperor Franz Joseph. Adorned with exquisite furniture, elaborate chandeliers, and intricate wall hangings, these rooms offer a glimpse into the extravagant lifestyle of the Habsburg dynasty. Discover the extravagant grandeur of the Great Gallery, the exotic influences of the 'Chinese Cabinets', and the impressive Hall of Ceremonies. 

After our tour, explore the palace and grounds at your leisure. Animal lovers should head to the Tiergarten Schönbrunn - the oldest zoo in the world - located within the palace grounds. Here you'll get to see a diverse range of animal species and learn about the conservation efforts being made. Or take a stroll through the meticulously landscaped gardens adorned with fountains, statues and flower beds. Climb the hill to the Gloriette, a striking structure perched at the top of the palace gardens with panoramic views of Vienna and the palace ground. Or head to the nearby Schönbrunn Palace Children's Museum to learn about the everyday lives of the imperial children through interactive exhibits.  

The rest of the afternoon and evening will be at leisure in Vienna. 

We know that for Riviera Travel guests it’s not enough to see the city, you want to experience it – and what better way to experience Vienna than through the music it’s famous for. Tonight, you can choose to spend the evening in one of the most opulent buildings in the city with an additional optional excursion to Kursalon Music Hall. Enjoy the essence of Vienna through the works by the city's most famous Classical composers - Mozart and Strauss.

This morning, we'll peek behind the scenes of the world's largest repertory operation and uncover the secrets hidden from the evening operagoers during a guided tour of the Staatsoper. Our tour of the architectural and cultural highlights of The Vienna State Opera includes its grand staircase, captivating oil paintings and tapestries inspired by Mozart's The Magic Flute.  

After our tour, there's free time at leisure to explore the city. Perhaps take a tour of the Hofburg - once the imperial family's residence. Marvel at the impressive collection of drawings and master prints at the Albertina, one of the largest and most significant print collections in the world. Or visit the Burggarten, this leafy oasis is the perfect place to relax with lovely views of its palatial surroundings.  

Alternatively, you could choose to join an optional visit to the Kunsthistroisches Museum. This fascinating Art History Museum is home to famous works such as Raphael's "Madonna in the Meadow," Vermeer's "The Allegory of Painting," and the world's largest collection of Bruegel's art. As you explore, you're likely to stumble on some of history's most famous works, like The Infanta paintings by Velazquez, and masterworks by Rubens, Rembrandt, Dürer, Titian and Tintoretto. 

Not sure where to go? Your tour manager is on hand to weigh in with even more local knowledge to help you find the most amazing places most tourists miss.  

Tonight, we'll enjoy a traditional Heurigen evening at a nearby restaurant, where we will be celebrating the latest wine production. You can experience the taste of this year's vintage with a wine tasting while relishing in the exquisite Viennese cuisine.

RETURN HOME

Today we’ll transfer to the airport for your flight home to the UK. The flight may only take around 2.5 hours but memories of your time spent in Vienna will last a lifetime.

Prices are per person, based on two people sharing a twin cabin with a limited number of sole occupancy cabins available on all decks, at the relevant supplement. The price includes:

• All meals on board (except one lunch if choosing the Salzburg excursion) - from dinner on your day of arrival until breakfast on your final day - including welcome cocktails and the Captain's dinner.
• Complimentary on-board tea and coffee
• All visits and excursions as mentioned
• 3 nights in centrally located hotel in Vienna with breakfast
• Airport transfers
• Coach travel as mentioned
• Travel to and from port of embarkation
• The services of a Riviera Travel cruise director

Discover Even More

Optional Classical Music concert at the Kursalon Vienna 

We know that for Riviera Travel guests it’s not enough to see the city, you want to experience it – and what better way to experience Vienna than through the music it’s famous for. Spend the evening in one of the most opulent buildings in the city, Kursalon Music Hall. Enjoy the essence of Vienna through the works by the city's most famous Classical composers - Mozart and Strauss. 

Optional visit to the Kunsthistroisches Museum 

Join an optional visit to the Kunsthistroisches Museum. This fascinating Art History Museum is home to famous pieces by Raphael, Vermeer, Velazquez, masterworks by Rubens, Rembrandt, Dürer, Titian and Tintoretto and the world's largest collection of Bruegel's art. 

Please contact us to pre-book either of the above experiences.

Transfer Times

All transfer times listed here are approximate, and dependant on traffic. If you have a question regarding transfer times please don't hesitate to contact us . 

Useful Information

• Currencies: Euro, Forint
• Flight Time: Approx. 2 hrs 25 mins to 3 hrs
• Languages: Hungarian, German
• Time Zone: GMT+1
• Countries: Austria, Hungary, Slovakia

Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the ship for the duration of your cruise. Please note that speeds may vary.

Visa Information

We are unable to accept responsibility if you are unable to travel because you have not complied with any passport/entry/immigration requirements.

We want to ensure you make the correct choice before you book your holiday with us. If you have any concerns regarding the suitability of the holiday due to reduced mobility we would encourage you to call us to discuss these concerns. General information on mobility in connection with our tours can be found here .

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Discover Vienna on board of the MS Blue Danube

You travel in a loop starting at the Wien / City boat station on Schwedenplatz on the Danube Canal. On this tour you will see important buildings: Uniqua Tower, Urania observatory, Badeschiff, Ringturm, Roßauer barracks, Zaha-Hadid-Haus, and much more.

Experience Vienna from a different perspective

Several departures daily.

Schedule 01.01. – 31.12., daily

SCHWEDENPLATZ TO SCHWEDENPLATZ

No City Cruise on 24.12.!

City Cruise on the Danube Canal

You can discover Vienna from the water on board of MS Blue Danube.

Experience Vienna from the water

Enjoy a cruise on board while our captains take care of your safety on board

Restaurant on board

Let yourself in our Viennese on-board restaurants – under the direction of Roman Loos – indulge in culinary delights. We offer you a varied range of food and drinks at moderate prices. The dishes are freshly prepared on board and the schnitzel is knocked, breaded and deep-fried directly at our restaurant.

Sightseeing

At any time of the year you have the opportunity to let the shores pass by in a relaxed way

€ 29.50 / per person

RESTAURANT ON BOARD

Onboard catering Loos Restaurant on board

Air conditioner on board

Announcements explanations of the main attractions

Children: 0-9 years: free | 10-15 years: -50% discount Seniors: 20% discount | Monday to Friday Groups: 10% discount from 20 persons tour guide free of charge, every 21st person free of charge People with disabilities: 20% discount (only with ID) also for 1 accompanying person

Combi tickets

Combine your boat trip with an additional offer at sensational prices!

until 29.03.2024: € 39,60 per person

from 30.03.2024: € 41.00 per person

SHIP + SCHNITZEL

Pork schnitzel with parsley potatoes freshly prepared on board.

until 29.03.2024: € 35,60 per person

from 30.03.2024: € 37,00 per person

SHIP + APPLE STRUDEL

Apple strudel with whipped cream + hot drink of your choice in addition to the boat trip.

until 29.03.2024: € 42,60 per person

from 30.03.2024: € 44,00 per person

SHIP + LUNCH

Combine your city walk with a short break.

2024: € 71,00 per person

SHIP + DINNER

End the day with a boat trip through illuminated Vienna.

landing piers

Shipstation vienna / city schwedenplatz.

Shipstation Vienna / City 1010 Vienna Franz-Josefs Kai 2 U1, U4 | Metro station “Schwedenplatz” underground car park

Ready to go?

Secure your tickets now!

Experience Vienna by boat!

A boat trip is always exciting and varied. During the trip, our captains ensure that your tour runs smoothly.

IMPORTANT QUESTIONS

Here you will find the answers to important questions about our cruises in Vienna.

Where can I buy tickets?

Tickets are available at our landing piers in Vienna and in the Wachau. You can also conveniently purchase your tickets via the online shop and print them out at home as Print @ Hom e tickets.

personally | at all ticket counters in Vienna or Wachau in the online shop | https://shop.ddsg-blue-danube.at by email | [email protected] by phone | +43 1 588 80

Can I take my bike on board?

It is not possible to transport bicycles on our ships in Vienna

Is there food on board?

All of our ships see themselves as floating restaurants. In Vienna, the Roman Loos company can pamper you with Viennese delicacies. Please choose from our extensive food and drink menu.

Are your ships air-conditioned?

The temperatures on our ships are always pleasant. Our ships are equipped with air conditioning.

children 0–9 years free of charge 10–15 years 50% discount

Seniors 60plus: 20% reduction Mon-Fri (from 60 years or with a pensioner ID)

groups 10% discount from 20 people Tour guides free, every 21st person free

Are the ships wheelchair accessible?

Wheelchairs must be registered for all journeys. You can find information on wheelchair-accessible ships and moorings under the following link and in the folder “People with special needs”.

SPECIAL NEEDS

In the case of boat trips with included bus transfers, transport for wheelchair users is unfortunately not possible.

Smoking on board?

The restaurant area is a smoke-free zone for all boat trips. Smoking is possible on the sun deck.

Table reservations

Table reservations for group bookings and menu orders possible. Otherwise free choice of seats.

Cancellation conditions

Can i take dogs on board.

Dogs travel with us for free. However, a muzzle and leash are essential! Unfortunately, dogs cannot be transported on boat trips with included bus transfers.

Discover the “ Queen among Europe’s rivers ” with the DDSG Blue Danube. The Danube is the most sung about river, it crosses a world cultural heritage, glides majestically between vineyards, breaks through rock massifs, offers imaginative views and a lot of variety. For the curious and first-time visitors as well as for “repeat offenders” and connoisseurs.

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Dinner Cruise oder City Cruise

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Entspannte Atmosphäre auf Donauwellen

Schiff + Schnitzel

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Gemütliche Auszeit am Wasser.

Beste Entspannung und schönste Aussicht

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Schulterklappe

Steht Ihnen zur Verfügung. Schiff ahoi!

Vienna Danube River Cruises

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• Schönbrunn Palace – an expansive palace that served as the summer home for the royal family; although it was the summer residence, its relevance as a Baroque landmark in Austria's architectural and cultural history sets it above most other buildings in Vienna.
• Hofburg Palaces – built in the 13th century, it has been the imperial seat for more than 800 years
• Grinzing – this neighborhood is most famous for its taverns, where you will experience a true flavor of the region as you sample its delicious locally grown and crafted wines and beers.

Top Things to See and Do in Austria

European rivers, when to visit europe: seasons & temperatures, cruising europe christmas markets, european cruise: when to go, best time to visit austria, best vienna danube river cruise lines for 2024-2025.

• AMA Waterways   - an all-inclusive river cruise provider that offers gorgeous itineraries to European destinations like the legendary Danube River, passing via Vienna, Austria. Sail in maximum luxury aboard the  MS Amamagna , double the width of classic European river ships, with more than 50% ultra-spacious suite accommodations with full balconies.
• CroisiEurope   - Europe's market leader in river cruising, explores the mythical capitals of Vienna, Bratislava, and Budapest in a single voyage, the great classic for discovering the splendors of the Blue Danube aboard the river ships  MS France ,  MS Beethoven , and  MS Amacerto . 
• Emerald Waterways   - explore the delights of the Danube with carefully crafted EmeraldPLUS and EmeraldACTIVE excursions, world-class dining experiences, and staffs' in-depth knowledge. Journey onboard the  Emerald Sky  and  Emerald Sun , two of its six Star-Ships cruise the Danube rivers.

Top Vienna Travel Destinations

• Danube River

Vienna Trips by Departure Date

• 2024 Vienna trips (66)
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• June 2024 (35)
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• 13 day trips (5)
• 15 day trips (7)
• 22 day trips (3)

Vienna Trips by Activity

• Vienna biking (30)
• Vienna wine tasting (25)
• Vienna hiking (25)
• Vienna village visits (23)
• Vienna urban exploration (22)
• Vienna christmas market visits (16)
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• Vienna archaeological site visits (10)
• Vienna land & sea exploration (7)

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Heart of the Danube: Bavaria to Budapest

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Select the cruise direction, and the year, you would like to travel.

• 2024 Eastbound
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Uniquely Tauck

EXPERIENCE WITH TAUCK

TAUCK EXCLUSIVE - An Imperial Evening at a private Vienna palace with dinner and classical performers

Wine-tasting event at the village of Weissenkirchen, in Austrian wine country

TAUCK VALUE INCLUDES

All gratuities to ship staff, drivers, local guides, Tauck Directors and Tauck Cruise Directors

Tauck's private shore excursions and distinctive inclusions – $1,982 Value

Choice of sightseeing in Passau or medieval Cesky Krumlov in the Czech Republic

SEE WHAT YOUR JOURNEY INCLUDES

Guests should be able to easily walk one to two miles, which may include climbing one or two flights of stairs and walking over uneven pavement, groomed hiking trails or cobblestones. Standing up to one hour or more may be required.

Moderately paced, and may include some early morning hotel departures, one or two on-tour flights, and extended motor coach travel.

Exclusively inclusive river cruising

When your road is the Danube, it's enchanting... Hungary, Austria, Slovakia, and Germany are linked by peaceful river landscapes dotted with storybook castles and romantic villages surrounded by stone terraced vineyards, where making world-class wines – and tasting them! – is an art.

A wonderfully preserved medieval castle and town in the Czech Carpathian mountains are as awe-inspiring as the palaces and museums of Imperial Vienna. As you cruise from port to port, explore the cobblestone streets and market squares in the Old Towns of Budapest, Bratislava, Cesky Krumlov, Grein, and Passau, each offering unexpected cultural treasures and culinary pleasures around every bend. And the pièce de résistance – a Tauck Exclusive gala evening with music and dancing at a private palace conjures up elegant Old World Europe just for Tauck guests!

Take a look at Tauck River Cruising along the Danube, the "River of Kings"

A step back in time... cesky krumlov, explore medieval cesky krumlov.

Cesky Krumlov grew up around 13th-century Krumlov Castle, one of the largest castle complexes in the Czech Republic. In addition to the castle's storied mix of architectural styles, Gothic, Renaissance and Baroque among them, the Winter Riding School, lavishly built in Viennese Rococo style, is one of the highlights of any visit...

Tauck Exclusive – Imperial Evening at Palais Pallavicini

Our exclusive gala imperial evening at the private palais pallavicini in vienna.

Built in 1784, the sumptuous Palais Pallavicini is a grand private palace in the heart of Vienna whose magnificent Baroque touches transport you to another time. On many of our Danube river cruises, join us at the Palais for a gala evening featuring a reception, dinner and classical performances sure to sweep you off your feet... and let you experience firsthand how Europe's cultured classes lived and were entertained centuries ago. And film fans will note that the Palais and its elegant facade served as rogue Harry Lime's postwar Vienna apartment in the Cold War classic "The Third Man."

Off-boat excursions were led by Tauck directors and local guides with excellent bilingual skills who provided outstanding insights.

Tauck Traveler Review

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Ship Specifications

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(Note: All Category 7 cabins are three-guest capacity suites with a pull-out couch)

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About Booking This Tour

Travel Documents

If you are a U.S. citizen traveling internationally , you will need a passport valid for six months beyond the completion of your Tauck journey for entry into Germany, Slovakia, Hungary, Czech Republic,  and Austria. You are not required to obtain a visa for the short duration of this tour.

If you are a citizen of another country traveling internationally , you should contact an embassy or consulate of  Germany, Austria, Hungary, Czech Republic and Slovakia to determine what travel documentation is required.

Please Note: Longer stays abroad for any purpose may require additional travel documentation.

We recommend that you make at least two photocopies of all the travel documents that you bring with you. Include copies of the photo page of your passport that contains the date of issuance, the date of expiration and your citizenship. Secure one set of copies in the safe in your cabin while traveling and leave one set behind with someone at home who will assist you in the event your documents or cards are misplaced, lost or stolen.

To facilitate Travel Requirements, destinations are increasingly utilizing online forms that require digital proof that you've successfully completed your submission (via an email, QR code, etc.) To ensure smooth travels and peace of mind, we strongly recommend all guests carry a personal smart phone and sign up for international data plans before traveling overseas.

Cruise Regulations – International maritime security guidelines require that your passport information be provided to us prior to your embarkation. You need to provide this information to us as soon as you book your cruise or boarding may be denied. Once you board the riverboat, your passport will be held by the purser until you disembark.

How to Book a Tour

See your travel advisor, or call Tauck at 800-468-2825 to make a reservation.

At the time of booking, please have the following information ready for all members of your party:

• Tour Name and Departure Date
• Traveler's Name: First and last names as they appear on your passport or driver's license
• Traveler's Address(es)
• Email Address*
• Traveler's Phone Number(s)*
• Emergency Contact Information: Please provide the name and phone number  of a relative or friend (not travelling with you) whom we could contact during the tour in the unlikely event of an emergency
• Interest in purchasing a travel protection plan (US and Canada)
• Interest in extending your trip by staying in a Tauck recommended hotel before your trip begins or after it ends
• Interest in our specially negotiated airfares

* Required Fields

Deposits & Final Payment

The deposit and the fees for the optional Protection Plan or Cancel Fee Waiver [CFW] coverage are due at time of booking.

The deposit amount is $900 per person

Final Payments:

Final Payment is due to Tauck  60  days before departure for lands trips, and  120  days before departure for cruises and rail journeys. If your deposit was made by credit card, final payment will be automatic unless you opted out at time of booking. Bookings without full payment at this time may be subject to cancellation without notice. Failure to make payment will be a considered a cancellation by the guest and all applicable cancellation fees will apply.

Cruise Protection Plan

Effective for plans purchased as of July 1, 2021:

Tauck's Cruise and Event Protection

Tauck's Cruise & Event Protection provides you with cancellation protection before your journey begins as well as insurance benefits while you are traveling. It must be purchased within 10 days of your initial deposit. Guest Protection includes the following:

Cancellation Waiver – Provided by Tauck:

Under Tauck's Cancellation Fee Waiver you can cancel your tour for ANY REASON and Tauck will  reduce the regular cancellation fees outlined herein, provided we are notified of cancellation before your cruise departs. Certain terms and restrictions apply (see below*).

*Extreme Circumstances:  In the event of an act of God, war (whether declared or undeclared), terrorism, accident, natural disaster, outbreak of disease, or other event or circumstance beyond our control that contributes to or results in cancellation rates above our historical cancellation rates in the absence of such event or occurrence, Tauck reserves the right to issue a credit to you in lieu of a money-back refund, applicable to a future Tauck journey.  Travel Insurance Benefits – Underwritten by United States Fire Insurance Company.

• Trip Cancellation –  Should you cancel for covered reasons, the plan reimburses cancellation fees imposed, up to your total trip cost. 
• Trip Interruption –  If you have to interrupt your tour for covered reasons, the plan provides reimbursement to catch up to your tour or return home.
• Travel Delay –  Provides reimbursement for missed, prepaid travel arrangements if you are delayed by a common carrier, natural disaster, unannounced strike, or other reasons as cited in the plan.
• Medical Expense –  Reimburses covered medical expenses incurred in the event you become injured or sick during your trip. 
• Baggage / Personal Effects Protection –  Provides reimbursement in the event your luggage or personal effects are, lost, stolen, damaged or delayed during your trip.

Worldwide Emergency Assistance Services –  Provided by Carefree Travel Assistance; 24-hour emergency telephone assistance hotline for medical and travel related problems.

The cost of Tauck's Cruise and Event Protection is:   $799   per person

This plan provides cancellation coverage for your trip and other insurance coverages that apply only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker.

This optional Cruise and Event Protection must be requested at time of booking and fee must be included in initial payment. Details will be provided with written confirmation of your reservation. Cruise and Event Protection does not protect travel agent commissions. Reimbursements will be made according to original method of payment. The amount of any refund shall be reduced by any recoveries obtained by you from any third parties.

To obtain your state-specific Certificate of Insurance that contains the complete terms, conditions, limitations and exclusions of the certificate, visit  affinitytravelcert.com/docs/TACCREINTL

If You Have To Cancel

If you cancel within 10 days of initial deposit

Within the first 10 days after you place your initial deposit, you may cancel your reservation for any reason with no cancellation fees.

If you cancel more than 10 days after initial deposit

Regardless of reason, cancellations result in costly charges from our travel and hotel providers covering penalties and fees incurred by canceling confirmed bookings. These fees vary from tour to tour. Therefore, the following fees apply for this tour.

Cancellation Fees with Tauck's Cruise Protection Plan:

120 days or more before departure: Loss of cost of Tauck's Cruise and Event Protection fee per person 119 – 60 days before departure: Loss of 25% of the cost of the cruise, not including air (if applicable), plus loss of Cruise and Event Protection fee, per person 59 – 1 days before departure: Loss of 50% of the cost of the cruise, not including air (if applicable), plus loss of Cruise and Event Protection fee, per person Cancellation Fees without Tauck's Cruise Protection Plan: 120 days or more before departure: $900 per person 119 – 60 days before departure: Loss of 50% of the cost of cruise, not including air (if applicable), per person 59 - 1 days before departure: Loss of 100% of the cost of cruise, not including air (if applicable), per person Time of cancellation will be when notice is received in our Wilton Woods, CT office.

Tour Interruption Fees

If you have to interrupt your tour en route, you may be entitled to a refund for the unused land portion if it exceeds 24 hours; certain restrictions apply. Such refunds are based upon the number of overnights missed less a fee of $40 per person per day for unused transportation and other fixed expenses.

Partial Room Cancellation

A person who cancels or leaves a tour while a roommate remains constitutes a cancellation of one type of accommodation and rebooking of another type of accommodation. The price charged to the remaining person is the new, higher price for the new accommodation.

In the event of an unforeseen circumstance beyond our control, Tauck reserves the right to amend the cancellation and transfer terms outlined herein. Note: All Guests, regardless of residency, who book a Tauck journey have the option of purchasing the Cancellation Waiver provided by Tauck in the event they need to cancel their trip after making their reservations. Tauck's Cruise & Event Protection, which includes both the Cancellation Fee Waiver and the Travel Insurance Benefits and Assistance Services described above, is not available to residents of Puerto Rico.

Travel Terms and Conditions

Click here  to find Tauck's Travel Terms & Conditions.

Travel Requirements For This Tour

Air Information and Luggage Restrictions

AIRFARE: Airfare to and from this destination is not included in the journey cost. If purchasing your air elsewhere, it is very important to provide us with your confirmed arriving and departing flight information no later than 3 weeks before your arrival date. Flight information can be submitted to Tauck (or verified, if you've already provided it) in the My Account section of Tauck.com.

TAUCK AIRPORT TRANSFERS are included at the start and end of the journey between the airport and the Tauck hotel. Airport transfers are available for any pre tour or post tour hotel stays immediately consecutive to the tour, providing flight information is received in the Tauck office no later than three weeks in advance. Details on locating your transfer upon arrival to the tour start city will be included in your final documents.

AIRLINES and CHECKED LUGGAGE: Due to space limitations during your Tauck journey, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one average-size suitcase per person. Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much more strict in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and are free to revise luggage policies without notice. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies. PLEASE NOTE that if you are booked on a tour that includes on-tour flights, the checked luggage weight restrictions for these flights may be lower than the weight restrictions for your international flights.

Checked Luggage ― General

Due to space restrictions, we ask that you please limit your checked luggage to one suitcase per person weighing no more than 50 pounds (23 kg) and with overall dimensions (length + width + height) not exceeding 62 inches (158 cm).

Besides complying with the Tauck restriction noted above, you should also be sure to research and comply with all airline baggage restrictions relating to your flights to and from your Tauck journey. Airlines have become much stricter in enforcing size and weight limits in recent years, and luggage exceeding airline standards for size or weight may result in expensive overage fees or other consequences.

Airlines are free to revise luggage policies without notice, and certain airlines have different baggage allowances for different classes of service. Researching and complying with airline luggage restrictions is the responsibility of the guest, and Tauck cannot be held responsible for any costs or disruptions to travel caused by the failure to research and comply with airline policies.

Tauck luggage tags will be provided by your Tauck Director on Day 1 of your itinerary. Please do not attach a Tauck luggage tag to any carry-on items, as the Tauck tags designate luggage that is to be handled and transferred by ground operators and hotel staff during your journey.

Carry-on Luggage ― General

Although oversize bags and wheeled, carry-on luggage are popular for airline travel, they are often not convenient or appropriate for motor coach travel. Most modern sightseeing motor coaches offer limited space for numerous or large items. Space under seats or in the overhead rack is typically small and is designed to accommodate items like coats, hats, purses, and small camera bags, etc.

For your day-to-day travel while on tour, we recommend that you limit your hand luggage to a small, soft-sided carry-on piece and to carry only those items you need handy during the day such as purses, make-up, medications, cameras, film, etc. Items too large to fit under the motor coach seat or in the overhead rack must be stored in the luggage bays beneath the motor coach, and may not allow for access during daytime travel.

Health, Safety and Mobility

HEALTH CONSIDERATIONS

Our riverboat is registered in Basel, Switzerland. Please check with your health insurance provider to determine whether you are covered while traveling. If you will not be covered under your current policy, we strongly suggest that you arrange for adequate coverage while on tour.

If you have a medical condition that might limit your participation in activities, please consult your physician for pre-departure health advice and inform us at time of booking.

VACCINATIONS

If you are a resident of the U.S. , no vaccinations are currently required for travel to the Czech Republic, Germany, Slovakia, Hungary or Austria. For complete vaccination and inoculation information, contact your physician, the public health service in your area, or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC) Info Center at 800-232-4636/800-CDC-INFO (toll-free in the U.S.). You may also log on to the CDC Internet website by clicking here .

If you are a resident of another country , please contact an embassy or consulate of the Czech Republic, Germany, Slovakia, Hungary and Austria to determine what vaccination(s) may be required for your travel.

While a cruise on the Danube is very relaxing and the pace leisurely, to enjoy all the tour has to offer, you should be in good health and able to walk reasonable distances, as some of the most memorable sightseeing can only be accomplished on foot. There is a moderate to significant amount of walking during our excursions, often along cobblestone streets, and at many sites there are multiple stairs or steps. For the most part, however, the amount of walking you do is at your discretion.

Your riverboat has four decks: Diamond, Ruby, Emerald, and Sun.An elevator runs between the Diamond Deck and Emerald Deck; there is no elevator access to the Sun Deck. There is no chair lift between any of the decks.

Because you will be cruising on a river and not on the open sea, you are never far from land and, therefore, there is no doctor on board. In case of emergency we can easily dock the boat and call for an ambulance or medical assistance.

PLEASE NOTE:  We regret that this Tauck itinerary cannot accommodate wheelchairs or motorized scooters.  Likewise, we regret that we're unable to provide individual assistance to guests with walking difficulties or other personal needs.  The responsibility of the Tauck Director who accompanies your trip is to ensure that the larger group enjoys a relaxing and informative journey, and he or she cannot be relied upon to provide ongoing individual assistance to any one guest.  Guests requiring such individualized assistance must be accompanied by an able-bodied companion who can provide it.

Unfortunately, we cannot accommodate service animals on any river cruise for medical and legal reasons.

SPECIAL DIETARY REQUESTS

The restaurants, hotels, caterers and numerous other partners we work with all do their best to accommodate special dietary requests from Tauck guests. However, given the diverse nature of those food providers (from small wineries to grand hotels to world-famous restaurants in more than 70 countries worldwide), some of our partners are better able than others to accommodate such requests. We therefore cannot guarantee that all dietary requests can be accommodated at every meal. Also, please note that where dietary requests can be accommodated, choices will frequently be limited.

On board the riverboat, smoking is permitted in a limited area of the Sun deck. Smoking (including e-Cigarettes) is not permitted in any cabin, the restaurant, the lounge or any other interior space.

Reading List

We have compiled a reading list of recommended books to give you more information about the destinations you will be traveling to on your upcoming journey!

You can view the reading list  here.

The climate along the Danube River is temperate and unpredictable. From June through August, the average high temperatures decrease as you travel west along the river and range from 69 to 79°F (21 to 26°C) and the average low temperatures range from 51 to 59°F (11 to 15°C). Rainfall amounts in this region remain fairly constant throughout the year, although late spring and early summer are generally the wettest seasons of the year. Opposite of temperature, rainfall increases as you travel west.

To read about current weather conditions, we suggest you log on to the Internet website, noaa.gov , by clicking here.

What To Pack

Bringing the right clothing for your trip is important – we've partnered with New Headings who provide an "easy-to-use, one-stop shop" for your Tauck travel needs, specifically selected for this trip. Click here to visit their site .

Your journey is designed with leisure in mind. Dress for comfort and convenience with a wardrobe that is flexible and allows for layering. Casual, cotton clothing is recommended. A light jacket or sweater for the sun deck is also recommended. Pack comfortable yet sturdy walking shoes that have already been broken-in, as many of the sites visited were built centuries ago and have uneven surfaces, some steep inclines and many steps.

During evenings aboard the riverboat, dress is resort casual. Items such as slacks and collared shirts are appropriate for men. For women, slacks, a dress or a skirt and blouse are suitable. For dinner and throughout the evening, guests should refrain from wearing shorts, t-shirts, flip-flops or sneakers. Your journey also includes one or two special occasion dinners, where a sport coat and tie for gentlemen and a dress/pantsuit for ladies are suggested. (Your Tauck Director will advise you prior to those evenings.)

Bathrobes, slippers and hairdryers are provided in each guest room at the hotels and in each cabin on board the riverboat.

Valet laundry service is available at the hotels and on the riverboat for a fee. There is no valet dry cleaning available on the riverboat. Ironing facilities on the riverboat are available by request to the front desk. Category 7 suites feature their own irons and ironing boards.

We recommend that you pack an adequate supply of your prescription medication in its original container to last through your entire journey, together with a copy of your doctor's prescription, or a letter from your health-care provider on office stationery explaining that the medication has been prescribed for you, your travel documents and a change of clothing in your carry-on bag to avoid any inconvenience in the event that your flight or luggage is delayed.

We recommend you pack the following items for your tour:

• Flat, rubber-soled walking shoes for onboard
• Sturdy but comfortable walking shoes that have already been broken-in for onshore
• Casual daytime wear – shorts, slacks, long and short-sleeved shirts
• Sport jacket (optional tie) for men
• Casually elegant evening wear for ladies
• Sunglasses, hat
• A light sweater or jacket for higher elevations or a breezy night
• Sun protection
• Camera, lenses, batteries,memory cards and chargers
• Travel alarm clock/cell phone with alarm function (many hotels do not have clocks in the rooms)
• Rain poncho and collapsible umbrella
• Reusable zipper-lock bags or other waterproof bags
• Daypack for camera equipment
• Sundries and toiletries that may be difficult to find en route
• Copies of your travel documents that should be secured in the safe in your cabin while traveling

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Tauck's River Cruise Guide

Danube river facts, first timer's guide, why take a tauck river cruise, choosing the best european river cruise for you.

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Vienna by Boat

The Danube River, Europe’s longest, originates in Germany, flows through 10 countries, and empties into the Black Sea.  One of the best ways to experience this natural beauty is by taking a boat cruise along its path. 

With an assortment of cruises offering unique waterway experiences, there is no limit to the ways in which you can enjoy this breathtaking river.  There are year round cruises as well as seasonal outings, and on some ships, an opportunity to be the captain! Whether catching a moonlight trip, a picnic outing, or a city cruise, Danube boat cruises have much to offer.

Vienna Danube Boat Cruise >>

Danube Boat Cruise for 1-2-3 hours in Vienna

Sailing the Danube on any number of sightseeing boat rides is a wonderful way to experience Vienna.  A one hour, breathtaking  tour on the canal banks offers views of Vienna’s beautiful architecture and its many districts. 

A two hour hour cruise allows you to see Vienna’s greenery starting at the Schwedenplatz, sailing towards Vienna’s planetarium and observatories, through the Freudenau Lock and Marina yacht harbor, ending at the Reichsbrucke bridge, next to St. Francis of Assisi's church. 

A three hour cruise allows you to enjoy more of Vienna, as well as the musical delights that help to define the city.

Danube Boat Cruise with Dinner

No boat ride would be complete without featuring some of  Vienna’s finest culinary artistry.  Consider this:  A buffet dinner complimented by the best Viennese wines, musical accompaniment played softly in the background,  and  the warmth of summer’s air on your skin,  as you savor the sparkling brilliance of a city in lights.

With a tour of Vienna’s sites, this enchanting boat ride offers class and culture, as well as fine dining and sophistication.  An evening cruise along the Danube gives you a nautical glimpse into the city’s past, a look into its modern accomplishments, and a glance into future possibilities.

Cruise outside Vienna - Visit the Wachau Valley

There is opportunity to enjoy the water during the day, if you prefer that to an evening cruise. Coursing along the river during daylight towards the scenic Wachau Valley for example, invites tourists to see the flourishing greenery surrounding Vienna’s vineyards, churches, and baroque structures. 

Vienna to Wachau Full-Day Danube Boat Cruise >>

While the landscape calls to you in Wachau Valley, castles and gilded architecture beckon you in Linz.  The Lentos Museum along the river is but one of the attractions that puts Linz on the map and makes visiting such a treasure.  In addition, the Brucknerhaus concert hall on the riverbank makes the Danube a premier waterway.  

Articles of interest

Karlsplatz Museum

Hofburg Imperial Palace

Vienna State Opera

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Ekorna > Viajes > Eastern Europe River Cruises > Danube Cruise: Vienna – Black Sea

Danube Cruise: Vienna – Black Sea

Rates & dates.

• from 2.455,00 €

Take the amazing Danube River cruise from the majestic imperial capital of Vienna along the the mighty European river all the way to the shores of the Black Sea . Visit no less than 8 countries and 4 capitals in 12 days you will never forget. This itinerary will take you from Vienna to Oltenita, but you can also choose the opposite direction .

Day 1: ARRIVAL TO VIENNA

This Danube River Cruise starts in Vienna , one of the most fascinating European capitals, with rich history and beautiful infrastructure. You can board our ship at 18:00 and enjoy a welcome cocktail.  In the evening you are welcome to attend a classical Viennese concert (subject to availability) and experience the true spirit of this imperial city.

Day 2: VIENNA – BRATISLAVA – BUDAPEST

Start the day with the visit of magnificent  Schönbrunn Palace , the former summer residence of the Habsburg royal family and the gorgeous park that surrounds it. Alternatively, you can opt for another kind of Viennese experience: visit the backstage of the famous concert hall Konzerthaus and try a cup of aromatic coffee in one of the many city cafes. In the afternoon we will sail towards Bratislava , the capital of neighboring Slovakia. there you can join our classical tour of the city and learn all about its history while you stroll around the medieval center. If you prefer a more active afternoon, you can hike up the Devin Castle and enjoy the beautiful views of Bratislava and the Danube. Once you return to the ship, we will move onwards towards Budapest.

Day 3: BUDAPEST

Spend the day exploring Budapest , the gorgeous capital of Hungary, full of baroque, neoclassical and art nouveau buildings. Learn all about the intriguing history of the two cities, Buda and Pest , from the opposite banks of the Danube River which united only in 1873. As an alternative, you can join our off-the-beaten-paths tour of Budapest to learn about its hidden corners. Afternoon is free to explore the city on your own our join our additional excursions: Budapest Market Halls or Gallert Baths (available as a supplement). In the evening you are welcome to have some fun with other cruise guests and enjoy a traditional Hungarian entertainment. During the night, the ship will leave Budapest and sail towards the vast Pannonian planes.

Day 4: BUDAPEST – PANNONIAN PLANES – NOVI SAD

We will spend the forth day of the Danube River Cruise  sailing through the vast Pannonian plain also known as puzsta . This is the true heart of Hungary where traditional way of life is still preserved. We will make a stop in Kalosca and attend a horse show before moving on towards Serbia .

Take the amazing Danube River Cruise and visit 8 European countries

Day 5: novi sad – belgrade.

In the morning we will explore Serbia’s second largest city, Novi Sad , a vibrant and creative place, packed with galleries and alliterative music bars. Besides its Austro-Hungarian architecture, which you can observe during the city tour, Novi Sad is know for the imposing Petrovaradin Fortress situated on a hill above the Danube . This second-largest fortress in Europe became famous for hosting a popular summer music festival Exit , but it will impress you in any time of year. In the afternoon we will move to Belgrade, where you can spend the evening engaging in a traditional Serbian show.

Day 6: BELGRADE

After breakfast, your guide will take a tour of  Belgrade . The capital is famous for its diverse architectural styles, its history and the magnificent views offered by the largest confluence of two rivers (Sava and Danube) in Europe. Instead of the classical city walk, you can opt for a bike tour and learn more about the Belgrade’s recent history. In the afternoon we will leave the Serbian capital and set south.

Day 7: THE IRON GATES

We will spend the whole day enjoying the Danube River Cruise as we sail along the border between Serbia and Romania . The highlight is of course the passage through the famous Iron Gates , a narrow and over 100 kilometers long gorge where Danube squeezes between the jaw-dropping cliffs – some of them are over 500 meters high. Along the way, we will pass by the striking Golubac Fortress which guards the entrance to the gorge and the historically-significant T abula Traiana , a marble plaque honoring the Roman road that once linked the province of Dacia (today’s Romania) with the rest of the empire. In the evening, enjoy our gala dinner on board.

Day 8: RUSE & RUSENSKI LOM

In the morning we will arrive to Bulgaria . First we will visit the spectacular Rusenski Lom Nature Park , famous for its pretty river terraces, high vertical rocks and other impressive rock formations. there we will visit the UNESCO-protected Churches of Ivanovo , a group of monolithic chapels and monasteries hewn out of solid rock, noted also for its beautiful and well-preserved medieval frescoes. In the afternoon, we will return to the port town of Ruse , an elegant Bulgarian town full of belle époque buildings and vast squares. In the evening we will prepare another traditional show, this time with Bulgarian music.

Day 9: RUSE – BUCHAREST – TULCEA

Day trip to Bucharest . With its 1,8 million inhabitants the city is the largest Balkan capital . In the past known as Little Paris, Bucharest has changed a lot in recent years. Numerous booming infrastructure projects (partly funded by the EU) are changing the old face  of the Romanian capital. Especially charming has become the long neglected historic old town called the  Lipscani where narrow cobblestone streets still hold the names of the ancient guilds that resided on them. When talking about greatest attractions of  Bucharest , one simply cannot avoid mentioning the  Parliament Palace , the largest legislature building in the world. Other important buildings worth visiting are  Patriarchal Cathedral , the centre of Romanian Orthodox faith built in the 17th century and the picturesque  Stavropoleos Church . In the evening we will return to the ship and sail towards Tulcea.

Day 10: DANUBE DELTA

After reaching the port of Tulcea , we will explore the vast Danube Delta , starching over 4000 square kilometers of marshes and wetlands, creating a perfect habitat for 300 species of birds and 160 species of fish. You can choose between leisure-type of cruise along the delta or an exciting speed boat ride. Either way, this is the perfect place to end your Danube river cruise . During the night our ship will sail back up the stream towards Cernavoda.

Day 11: CERNAVODA – CONSTANTA – OLTENITA

From the port of Cernavoda we will visit Constanƫa on the shores of the Black Sea . It’s the oldest continuously inhabited city in Romania , founded back in the 7th century BC by Greek settlers from Anatolia. Nowadays, Constanƫa is a nice touristic town full of beautiful buildings and historical secrets. In the evening we will return to the ship for a gala farewell dinner. Night sail towards the port of Oltenita.

Day 12: OLTENITA – END OF THE TRIP

Today our Danube river cruise comes to an end. From Oltenita you can transfer to Bucharest and take a flight home or continue a private land tour of Romania . There is still a lot to see in this interesting country, home of Dracula and numerous painted monasteries of Bucovia.

This Danube River Cruise has weekly departures from April to October. You can take a route from Vienna to the Black Sea or the other way around.

We offer two ship categories:

➨ Standard ship: prices from 2455 EUR per person

➨ Premium ship: prices from 2745 EUR per person

Prices depend on the season, ship category, cabin category and disponibility. To get the final price, please contact our agents at ➨ [email protected] .

THE CRUISE INCLUDES

• 12-day Danube River Cruise in a double cabin of selected category with shower in bathroom
• All meals from dinner the first evening to breakfast on the final day
• Onboard drinks (except for drinks from our special lists)
• Assistance from our onboard multi-lingual host/hostess
• Welcome cocktail
• Gala dinner
• Onboard entertainment
• Travel assistance and repatriation insurance
• All port fees.

NOT INCLUDED

• Drinks from our special lists or drinks ordered during excursions or transfers
• Cancellation insurance
• Baggage insurance
• Transfers/ to and from departure/arrival points
• Optional excursions mentioned in the itinerary
• Personal expenses.

OPTIONAL EXCURSIONS

• Viennese Music Concert
• Guided tour of Vienna and Schoenbrunn Palace
• The high art of Viennese living: music and Viennese cafes
• Guided tour of Bratislava
• Hiking in Bratislava: The Little Carpathians
• Tour of Budapest
• Gellert Baths and Spa
• Traditional evening in Budapest
• Morning in Puszta
• Novi Sad and a walk to the Petrovaradin fortress
• Guided tour of Novi Sad and Sremski Karlovci
• Biking in Belgrade
• Guided tour of Belgrade
• Traditional evening in Belgrade
• Guided tour of Ruse
• The Roussenki Valley and rupestrian churches in Ivanovo
• Day excursion to Bucharest (lunch included)
• Excursion in the Danube Delta
• Delta Danube on a speed boat
• Trip to Constanta (lunch included)

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Our destinations.

➨ Travel to Slovenia ➨ Travel to Croatia ➨ Travel to Montenegro ➨ Travel to Bosnia ➨ Travel to Serbia ➨ Travel to N. Macedonia ➨ Travel to Albania ➨ Travel to Romania ➨ Travel to Bulgaria

Types of trips

➨ Tailor-made trips ➨ Cultural tours ➨ City Breaks ➨ Escorted Tours ➨ Hiking & Cycling Trips ➨ Fly & Drive Trips ➨ Unique Experiences ➨ Small Ship Cruises

[email protected] 00386 40 935 093 Litijska 43, Ljubljana, Slovenia

Terms and conditions

Danube Mini Cruise Cities & Nature 2024

Highlights of the Danube Short Cruise

A short trip that will long remain in hearts and minds..

From Engelhartszell (Passau) to Wachau, Vienna, Bratislava and Linz to Engelhartszell (Passau).

In the Schlögener Loop, the Danube makes two spectacular U-turns before finally deciding to take the most beautiful route to Vienna: through the narrow Wachau valley, where castle ruins and icing-sugar monasteries peep out from terraced vineyards and apricot orchards. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, the home of great wines and beguilingly beautiful. You’ll be spoiled for choice in Vienna. There’s just so much to see: historical buildings and museums, naturally, but also unexpected delights like a café that sells furniture, crazy second-hand shops and a tiny basement where you can listen to the finest jazz music. Linz will captivate you with its exciting stylistic contrasts, from Baroque to contemporary. Alone the Lentos Art Museum, which features works from the 20th and 21st centuries, and the Ars Electronica Center, with its high-tech exhibits, will keep you busy for hours.

Around 80 kilometres west of Vienna is the Wachau, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This valley is lined with steep slopes on which some of Europe’s best grape varieties grow. In the midst of all this, you’ll keep spotting castles, palaces and Romantic ruins on the hills, which bear witness to a distant past. With such an enchanted landscape, it’s not surprising that there are many legends about the Wachau, dealing with both mythical phenomena and real-life events, including the Napoleonic Wars. Authors such as Josef Wichner and Hans Plöckinger published collections of these legends – the ideal thing to read while you are visiting the area.

This is a real highlight of your Danube cruise: Vienna, the capital of Austria with that extra-special something. The locals sound as though they are singing when they speak, and it is customary for certain business owners to address their regular customers with their full title. That’s just the way things are done here. With its wealth of museums, galleries, palaces and castles, plus the state opera and many theatres, the city enjoys a lively cultural scene all year-round. The Viennese are proud of their city – and rightly so!

Baroque facades, numerous churches and, at the centre, the river. As you can see, it’s possible to describe Linz, Austria’s largest port city, in a single sentence. But that would be doing it an injustice, since there’s a whole lot more to Linz than buildings and water. In recent years, this former industrial hub has morphed into a European cultural stronghold. No matter whether it’s theatre, cinema, art or music, there’s both great demand and great support for culture here. The city also provides magnificent views – particularly in the evening – from the pilgrimage church on the Pöstlingberg hill.

€ 100 SUPER EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT 2024

The A-ROSA Super Early Booking Discount is valid for bookings made until 30 June 2024. Limited availabilities. The discount is already included in the travel price.

1st Day Engelhartszell (Passau) Dep 05:00 pm

This is the departure point for your Danube cruise. Our tip: to ensure that you get off to a relaxed start, travel the day before the cruise begins and spend the night at one of our partner hotels. This will allow you to explore the region around Passau, too. And when your ship sets sail for an exciting Danube cruise, you will have already enjoyed your first few adventures.

2nd Day Wachau Vienna Arr 01:00 pm Dep 11:30 pm

You are about to enjoy a real treat for the senses as you experience the Wachau up close. You will be mesmerised by the famous Danube valley between Melk and Krems. Taking in this fascinating river landscape as you stand on the sun deck of one of the A-ROSA Danube fleet is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. It is no wonder that the Wachau is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This really is an absolute must-see.

3rd Day Bratislava Arr 05:00 am Dep 01:00 pm

Bratislava, home to approximately 450,000 inhabitants and located on the left bank of the Danube, is a young capital city – the youngest in Europe, in fact. Throughout the old town, you’ll see traces of the Austro-Hungarian Empire wherever you go. This leisurely city of baroque and rococo, palaces and palisades, and art and coffee houses is a perfect place to wander around, marvel at impressive sights, relax and unwind.

A stroll through the city centre followed by a walk up to the castle to enjoy the views and, last but not least, a spot of window shopping at the Eurovea shopping centre. It’s up to you to decide what you’ll do. Your personal tour guide is very familiar with Bratislava and will show you the best sights and attractions.

€ 199 per reservation for max. 5 people

approx. 3 h

german tour guide only

This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

Booking a private people carrier will ensure that you travel through the city in comfort, whether you choose to visit Castle Hill, the old town or the UFO restaurant with its observation deck. You can also book an expert tour guide at the same time if you wish. Enjoy getting to know the fantastic city of Bratislava on a tour that’s as individual as you are.

€ 429 per reservation for max. 5 people

Private Minivan

Would you like to go on a customised tour with your partner or travel companion? Your driver will take you to various sights and attractions including Castle Hill. You can also book an expert tour guide at the same time if you wish.

€ 259 per reservation for max. 2 people

Private car

Taking you directly to the most beautiful view, the Bratislava City Express will deliver you to the Bratislavský Hrad (Bratislava Castle). From the 85-metre-high plateau, you can see far over the Danube. The city owes its name to Duke Wratislaw, who built the complex in the middle of the 17th century. Maria Theresia decided to reconstruct the castle a century later as you'll see on your visit today. After the castle, you will explore the historical centre with its Renaissance houses and baroque palaces by foot.

€ 39 per person

approx. 2 h

City Express and walking

A long history, multicultural influences and the spirit of optimism on every corner - this is Bratislava. A dynamic cycling tour suits the smallest capital of Europe perfectly. Austria and Hungary, direct neighbours, have brought many interesting influences, but different ethnic groups have shaped the city since ancient times. Discover the nature around Bratislava, the old town and enjoy the breathtaking view from the famous Ufo restaurant. History and modernity meet here on every corner. It promises to be a memorable trip!

€ 54 per person

approx. 2.5 h

depending on the weather, please contact reception in case of rain

Distance: approx. 37km

4th Day Linz Arr 02:00 pm Dep 10:00 pm

Your Danube cruise is the perfect opportunity to get to know the Austrian city of Linz. It offers an exciting mix of cultural attractions and true works of art. You’ll discover a modern, cosmopolitan city whose diversity, design and creativity really make it stand out. And no visit to Linz would be complete without a trip to a cafe to sample its specialities, such as the famous Linzer Torte.

Explore the diversity of the Danube city of Linz with your private English-speaking tour guide and design the tour according to your wishes. From the impressive architecture on the main square to a hike to the Pöstlingberg and exciting discoveries in the museums, there are no limits to your choices.

€ 329 per reservation for max. 5 people

Drive relaxed from A to B with your private minivan and explore the diversity of Linz, the city on the Danube. For example, let us take you to the top of the Pöstlingberg and enjoy a fantastic view! Design the programme according to your wishes.

€ 399 per reservation for max. 5 people

Explore the Danube city of Linz in a very relaxed way for two with your private car. Between culture, nature and industry, Linz has a lot to offer. You determine the programme and we implement it for you. A private English-speaking tour guide can be booked on request.

€ 359 per reservation for max. 2 people

Discover the long tradition of Linz, the capital of Upper Austria, in a relaxed way on this private rickshaw tour. Let the various sights, such as the main square or the Renaissance-style Landhaus, pass by. You will drive through the alleys with the baroque house facades and the beautiful Renaissance courtyards to the Old Cathedral and learn exciting information about the cultural capital.

€ 219 per reservation for max. 2 people

Rickshaw and walking

No rain protection. This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

Get to know a different side of Upper Austria's capital on this evening excursion. Experience a little play of lights when the Ars Electronica, the "Museum of the Future", and the Lentos Art Museum are illuminated. From the Pöstlingberg, the sea of lights stretches out before your feet. Past the Trinity Column and the Mozart House in Linz, we return to the ship.

€ 49 per person

approx. 1.5 h

Bus and walking

5th Day Engelhartszell (Passau) Arr 07:00 am

A-rosa premium all-inclusive.

Enjoy your most beautiful time with maximum comfort and with the all-round carefree package: A-ROSA Premium All-Inclusive.

Your desired cabin? Voilà! Sauna, fitness area, pool? Always at your service! Top culinary menus? Enjoy your meal! Attractive discounts on all massage and beauty treatments? Of course! Plus all transfers and many other benefits that will always put a smile on your face, while you have nothing to do but think about your next wish.

Included Services

• Full Board Plus: extensive breakfast, lunch and dinner buffets, additional embarkation snack and tea and coffee hour. On many cruises, seasonal supplements such as a midnight snack
• High-quality drinks included throughout the day: tea, coffee and coffee specialities, soft drinks, beers, sparkling wine and a selection of wines, cocktails and long drinks. Also besides the lunch and dinner hours. Exceptions are specialities subject to surcharges and champagne.
• Super Early Booking Discount for bookings made until 30 June 2024; Early Booking Discounts for bookings made until 29 February 2024 or 31 August 2024.
• A-ROSA travel cancellation insurance (booking until 30 November 2023)
• Children up to and including 15 years of age travel free of charge on Deck 1.¹
• Change booking one time free of charge up to 30 days prior to departure.
• Half-day excursion included (from 7-night cruises)
• English-speaking travel and hotel management on our international ships.
• Comprehensive service concept with guest relations management.
• Destination Scouts will help you make the most of every city experience with insider tips and recommendations.
• Complimentary room service in every cabin category.²
• Free use of the on-board facilities such as sauna and fitness room.
• A-ROSA App with information about your cruise.
• Transfer between railway station³ or airport and ship⁴
• 15 % discount on treatments in our SPA-ROSA
• Free e-bikes for independent exploration⁵
• Free WiFi (excluding streaming services)
• Bathroom amenities and bathrobe in the cabin
• On-board entertainment
• Port charges

¹ Children up to and including 15 years of age travel free of charge when accompanied by at least one (two in Cat. G) supervising adult on Deck 1. From Deck 2 children receive a 30 % discount. Furthermore, children up to 7 years of age accompanied by 2 supervising adults can use a sofa bed free of charge on the A-ROSA SENA in categories B - D. On the A-ROSA ALVA, A-ROSA ALEA & A-ROSA CLEA children accompanied by at least one supervising adult receive a 30 % discount. The children’s discount is only valid for the cruise itself. Limited availabilities on all cruises.

² Except A-ROSA ALVA, A-ROSA ALEA & A-ROSA CLEA.

³Guests receive an extra voucher, valid for day of embarkation or disembarkation in Cologne and Engelhartszell. The transfer in Paris and Lyon is only included when booking the train tickets through A-ROSA.

⁴ The transfer is included when booking the flight through A-ROSA. You will receive an extra voucher with your travel documents.

⁵A-ROSA ALVA, A-ROSA ALEA & A-ROSA CLEA: E-bike rental not available.

Super Early Booking Discount

Book now your trip with the Premium All-Inclusive package until  30 June 2024  and you will benefit from our attractive Super Early Booking Discount (limited contingent).

Your desired Cabin

Choose exactly the cabin you like. If available, we will book your desired cabin with cabin number.

Dates & Prices

05. nov 2024 - 09. nov 2024 a-rosa donna from € 805 pp select cabin from € 805 pp.

Spacious, comfortable outside cabin. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe.

Spacious, comfortable outside cabin with panorama window. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe.

Spacious, comfortable outside cabin with Juliette balcony. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, fly screen, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe.

05. Nov 2024 - 09. Nov 2024 A-ROSA MIA from € 805 pp select cabin from € 805 pp

Spacious and comfortable outside cabin with panorama window. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe.

08. Nov 2024 - 12. Nov 2024 A-ROSA BELLA from € 805 pp select cabin from € 805 pp

Spacious and comfortable outside cabin. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe.

Spacious and comfortable outside cabin with Juliette balcony. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe.

09. Nov 2024 - 13. Nov 2024 A-ROSA DONNA from € 805 pp select cabin from € 805 pp

09. nov 2024 - 13. nov 2024 a-rosa mia from € 655 pp select cabin from € 655 pp, 12. nov 2024 - 16. nov 2024 a-rosa bella from € 655 pp select cabin from € 655 pp, 13. nov 2024 - 17. nov 2024 a-rosa donna from € 655 pp select cabin from € 655 pp, 13. nov 2024 - 17. nov 2024 a-rosa mia from € 755 pp select cabin from € 755 pp, 16. nov 2024 - 20. nov 2024 a-rosa riva from € 655 pp select cabin from € 655 pp.

Spacious, comfortable outside cabin with panorama window. Elegant design and first-class materials ensure an atmosphere of well-being. Cabin facilities: safe, air-conditioning, TV, fly screen, hair dryer, bathroom with shower and toilet, sauna towel, wool blanket, telephone, bathrobe.

16. Nov 2024 - 20. Nov 2024 A-ROSA BELLA from € 655 pp select cabin from € 655 pp

17. nov 2024 - 21. nov 2024 a-rosa donna from € 655 pp select cabin from € 655 pp, 17. nov 2024 - 21. nov 2024 a-rosa mia from € 755 pp select cabin from € 755 pp, 20. nov 2024 - 24. nov 2024 a-rosa riva from € 655 pp select cabin from € 655 pp, 20. nov 2024 - 24. nov 2024 a-rosa bella from € 655 pp select cabin from € 655 pp, 21. nov 2024 - 25. nov 2024 a-rosa donna from € 805 pp select cabin from € 805 pp, 21. nov 2024 - 25. nov 2024 a-rosa mia from € 755 pp select cabin from € 755 pp, 03. jan 2025 - 07. jan 2025 a-rosa riva from € 599 pp select cabin from € 599 pp, 03. jan 2025 - 07. jan 2025 a-rosa bella from € 599 pp select cabin from € 599 pp, 07. jan 2025 - 11. jan 2025 a-rosa riva from € 599 pp select cabin from € 599 pp, 07. jan 2025 - 11. jan 2025 a-rosa bella from € 599 pp select cabin from € 599 pp, 11. jan 2025 - 15. jan 2025 a-rosa riva from € 599 pp select cabin from € 599 pp, 11. jan 2025 - 15. jan 2025 a-rosa bella from € 599 pp select cabin from € 599 pp, 15. jan 2025 - 19. jan 2025 a-rosa riva from € 599 pp select cabin from € 599 pp, 15. jan 2025 - 19. jan 2025 a-rosa bella from € 599 pp select cabin from € 599 pp, 19. jan 2025 - 23. jan 2025 a-rosa riva from € 599 pp select cabin from € 599 pp, 19. jan 2025 - 23. jan 2025 a-rosa bella from € 599 pp select cabin from € 599 pp, 23. jan 2025 - 27. jan 2025 a-rosa riva from € 599 pp select cabin from € 599 pp, 23. jan 2025 - 27. jan 2025 a-rosa bella from € 599 pp select cabin from € 599 pp, 27. jan 2025 - 31. jan 2025 a-rosa riva from € 599 pp select cabin from € 599 pp, 27. jan 2025 - 31. jan 2025 a-rosa bella from € 599 pp select cabin from € 599 pp, arrival & hotel, to engelhartszell (passau), travel yourself - park safely, e. g. with lufthansa, austrian airlines, eurowings, klm, swiss, suitable accommodation for their arrival and departure, a-rosa rail & cruise.

Train operated by Deutsche Bahn from all German train stations to Passau.

Train from € 179 per person  (Return / 2nd Class).

Train operated by Deutsche Bahn from all German train stations to Vienna.

Train from € 189 per person  (Return / 2nd Class).

ARRIVE ON YOUR OWN - AND PARK SAFELY!

If you plan your arrival individually, we offer you a parking space in a guarded car park for the length of your cruise.

Price from € 54 per car  (Passau) Price from € 54 per car  (Engelhartszell)

OUTBOUND & RETURN FLIGHT; E.G. WITH LUFTHANSA, AIR FRANCE, SWISS

From various German airports and Zurich to Vienna, incl. transfer Airport – Ship – Airport (incl. taxes).

Flights from € 339 per person

You want a relaxed arrival and departure? Then choose one of these hotels! Your advantage: You arrive already one or two days before disembarkation and can consciously look forward to the journey with A-ROSA. Or you can let your vacation come to an end in a very juicy way before you start your journey home. All hotels are personally and carefully selected by us to round off your vacation.

Apartment-Hotel Rivers 2024 from € 79 pp

The hotel is located in the ‘Innstadt‘, which is part of the newly developed district ‘InnViertel‘ of Passau. The hotel offers two and three-room appartments. You can reach within walking distance (approx. 10 minutes) the pedestrian area and the old town with the university and Stephen’s cathedral. A parking lot in the underground car park can be booked additionally for a surcharge per night. Each appartments is equipped with the following facilities: air conditioning, free Wi-Fi, flatscreen TV, safe, kitchenette, spacious bathroom with underfloor heating, towel dryer, shower (some rooms with a bathtub), hairdryer, make-up mirror, toilet. The hotel has also a lift.

Included services Overnight stay incl. breakfast, extended stay possible

2-Room-Apartment Size ca. 63 sqm for up to 2 persons

Double occupancy

€ 89   pp

3-Room-Apartment Size ca. 73 sqm with 2 bedrooms for up to 4 persons

€ 109   pp

3-person occupancy

€ 79   pp

4-person occupancy

€ 69   pp

Hotel Residenz Garni 2024 from € 69 pp

Hotel Residenz stands out with one of Passau’s top locations: right by the Danube, in the heart of Passau’s old town. All attractions are within easy walking distance. Rooms are modern and comfortable, the “Comfort” category and above have air conditioning. The hotel has five exclusive Suites or Junior Suites that are designed very differently. For prices and availability, please enquire when making your reservation. Soak up the hotel’s calm atmosphere by either relaxing in the small but comfortable sauna or listening to classical music with a glass of wine in the hotel’s very well-stocked library.

Comfort Double occupancy

€ 99   pp

Comfort Triple occupancy

Single occupancy

€ 129   pp

€ 119   pp

Hotel Spitzberg Garni 2024 from € 69 pp

The Hotel Spitzberg is ideally located just 500 metres from the main railway station and the centre of Passau. The historic part of the house was built in the 19th century and has rooms with art nouveau stucco ceilings. In 2010, the hotel was reopened with completely new furnishings, new bathrooms, new reception, hotel bar and breakfast room to 4-star standard. The rooms are equipped with bathtub or shower/WC, satellite TV, minibar, safe and free WLAN.

Triple occupancy

Hotel Atrium Garni 2024 from € 69 pp

This modern hotel in Passau is located in quiet green surroundings just 200 m from the Danube and 500 m from the town centre on the other side of the river. Enjoy a complimentary drink on arrival in the light-filled lobby, by the palms on the terrace or in your comfortable hotel room. The hotel bar is open in the evenings. Alternatively, you can enjoy complete relaxation in the spa, which offers a Finnish sauna, a steam room, a whirlpool and an infrared sauna. Free Internet access and a bottle of mineral water are available in each room. For luggage and passenger transfers to / from the A-ROSA transfer in Passau (distance from / to hotel approx. 1–2 km) we recommend a taxi.

Hotel Passauer Wolf Garni 2024 from € 69 pp

Located in a historical building dating back to the 14th century, Hotel Passauer Wolf has a very special atmosphere. Yet the hotel also meets state-of-the-art standards from extensive refurbishment in 2009. The fantastic location in the middle of the old town, right between the cathedral and the pedestrian zone, makes the hotel a perfect starting point for sightseeing and shopping. Enjoy your complimentary welcome drink at the bar or in your comfortably furnished room. Then relax in the hotel spa’s whirlpool and sauna. Use of the spa is included in the booking price. Free Internet access and a bottle of mineral water are available in each room. For luggage and passenger transfers to / from the A-ROSA transfer in Passau (distance from / to hotel approx. 1–2 km) we recommend a taxi.

Hotel Wesenufer 2024 from € 79 pp

Hotel Wesenufer is located right by the Danube in Wesenufer, which is near Engelhartszell (7 km) and Waldkirchen am Wesen (4 km). The nearest train station is Passau (37 km). The hotel building itself is more than 300 years old and was carefully renovated in 2008 and 2013. All rooms feature a modern interior design to make you feel at ease. The rooms – some of which have a balcony or terrace looking on to the Danube – are equipped with a flatscreen TV, free Wi-Fi, a phone, a safe, a minibar and a bathroom with a shower, toilet and hairdryer. The hotel also has three wheelchair-accessible rooms. Enjoy the view of the Danube from your terrace, the seasonal and regional meals in the Schloss restaurant, and the sauna and steam bath in the spa. Free parking is available on request. Guest and luggage transfer to and from the ship is available for a fee payable at the hotel. When booking, please inform the hotel of your requirements.

Information on opening hours:

Opening hours of the castle restaurant Summer (May, 1st to September, 30th) Monday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday and public holidays from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Kitchen opening times: Monday to Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7:45 p.m. Sunday and public holidays from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Opening hours of the castle restaurant Winter (October, 1st to April, 30th) Monday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday and public holidays from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Kitchen opening times: Monday to Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 7:45 p.m. Sundays and public holidays from 11:00 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Ships on this cruise

A-rosa bella.

A-ROSA DONNA

A-ROSA FLORA

A-ROSA RIVA

The 10 best places to go on a river cruise in Europe 

Jun 7, 2024 • 8 min read

Appreciate the beautiful architecture of Budapest from the Danube © Sanga Park / Shutterstock

Cruising down a quiet, traffic-free river, surrounded by scenic riverfront views is an ideal way to see Europe . You can sip your wine while watching picture-perfect scenery breeze past – taking in castles, medieval villages and fields of flowers. 

By necessity, European riverboats are small and passenger numbers are often fewer than 200, making these cruises a far more social and intimate experience. There’s also plenty to do and see onshore, and with more frequent stops you can enjoy more onshore activities. Cruise lines are now also offering more immersive learning experiences such as cooking classes and home visits, or activities like bicycle trips and long hikes.

The hardest part is choosing where to go — which is why we've rounded up the 10 best places to go on a European river cruise. 

1. Northern Rhine (Germany)

From gorgeous river meanders and noble German cities

The northern section of the Rhine features dramatic landscapes and a host of interesting towns. Cologne (Köln), Germany ’s fourth-largest city, offers numerous attractions starting with its famous cathedral, while Koblenz, at the confluence of the Rhine and Moselle Rivers, is a park- and flower-filled delight. Heading south, the Rhine meanders between hillside castles and steep fields of wine-producing grapes. Idyllic villages appear around each bend, their half-timbered houses and Gothic steeples seemingly plucked from a fairy tale. Scarcely damaged during WWII, handsome Speyer is crowned by a magnificent Romanesque cathedral. 

2. Southern Rhine (France, Germany & Switzerland)

Explore intriguing towns in this border land

The Southern Rhine forms the border between Germany and France before becoming Switzerland ’s northern frontier. Strasbourg is the perfect overture to all that is idiosyncratic about Alsace – walking a fine tightrope between France and Germany, between a medieval past and a progressive future. Further south, the Black Forest spills into Alsace in the German town of Breisach. Unsurprisingly, given its geographical and cultural proximity to France, the locals here have a passion for a good bottle of wine. Basel, at the juncture of the French, German and Swiss borders, is perhaps where Switzerland’s Franco-Germanic roots are most evident.

3. Rhône (France)

Indulge in gourmet experiences cruising the south of France

Commanding a strategic spot at the confluence of the Rhône and Saône Rivers, grand old Lyon is France’s gastronomic capital. Downstream, the Rhône forges past Vienne’s Roman ruins and the centuries-old Côtes du Rhône vineyards, opening to sunny vistas of fruit orchards, lavender fields and the distant Alps as it continues south. During the 14th century, the Provençal town of Avignon was the center of the Roman Catholic world. Its impressive legacy of ecclesiastical architecture most notably includes the soaring, World Heritage-listed Palais des Papes .

4. Western Danube (Austria & Germany)

Romantic landscapes in the heart of Europe

The baroque streetscapes and imperial palaces set the stage for Vienna ’s artistic and musical masterpieces alongside its coffee-house culture and vibrant epicurean and design scenes. Moving into Germany, the Danube gently winds its way to the Italianate city of Passau . Top billing in eastern Bavaria goes to Regensburg, a former capital and one of Germany’s prettiest and liveliest cities. Nuremberg (Nürnberg), Bavaria’s second-largest city and the unofficial capital of Franconia, is an energetic place with a history that ranges from undeclared capital of the Holy Roman Empire to the trials that judged Nazi war crimes.

5. Eastern Danube (Hungary & Serbia)

Travel a cross-section of Europe’s less-touristed east

The two great cities of this stretch of the Danube are the capitals of Hungary and Serbia respectively. Budapest has something for everyone – from dramatic history and flamboyant architecture to healing thermal waters. Outspoken, adventurous, proud and audacious: Belgrade ("White City") has a gritty exuberance and eclectic architecture making it one of Europe’s most happening cities today. While it hurtles towards a brighter future, its past unfolds before your eyes: socialist blocks are squeezed between art nouveau masterpieces and remnants of the Habsburg legacy contrast with Ottoman relics.

6. Douro (Portugal)

See spectacular terraced vineyards, the home of port wine

The Douro region, home to port wine, is simply one of the most glorious spots on earth. The Douro Valley showcases steep terraced vineyards carved into mountains, granite bluffs, whitewashed quintas (estates) and 18th-century wine cellars that draw visitors from around the world. Humble-yet-opulent Porto entices with its higgledy-piggledy medieval center, divine food and wine, and charismatic locals. Its charms are as subtle as the nuances of an aged tawny port, best savored slowly.

7. Elbe (Czech Republic & Germany)

A little-cruised but picturesque stretch of Central Europe

Covering the Czech Republic and a thick slice of eastern Germany, Elbe cruises are under-the-radar options. Prague , not on the Elbe but usually included on river cruises, contends with cities like Budapest and Paris in terms of beauty. Its maze of cobbled lanes and hidden courtyards is perfect for the aimless wanderer. The classic view of Dresden from the Elbe’s northern bank takes in spires, towers and domes belonging to palaces, churches and stately buildings: hard to believe that the city was all but wiped off the map by Allied bombings in 1945. While the city of Wittenberg is first and foremost about Martin Luther, the monk who triggered the German Reformation in 1517.

8. Seine (France)

Cruise out of Paris through northern France

Paris has a timeless familiarity, with instantly recognizable architectural icons, memorable cuisine and chic boutiques. Dining is a quintessential part of the Parisian experience, and its art repository is one of the best, showcasing priceless treasures in palatial museums. Don't miss Rouen is one of Normandy’s most engaging and historically rich destinations, with its soaring Gothic cathedral, beautifully restored medieval quarter, excellent museums and vibrant cultural life. At the mouth of the Seine, Le Havre is a love letter to modernism, evoking France’s postwar energy and optimism.

9. Main (Germany)

A seductive German river connecting to the Rhine and Danube

Rising in Franconia and joining the Rhine near Mainz, the Main (pronounced "mine") is the longest German-only river. From Bamberg to its confluence, it travels some 400km through locks and picturesque scenery, dotted with historic towns. Frankfurt ’s skyscrapers are quite a contrast to the picturesque towns that follow, though it too has a rather traditional and charming old town. Scenic Würzburg is renowned for its art, architecture and delicate wines. A disarmingly beautiful architectural masterpiece, Bamberg’s entire Altstadt is a UNESCO World Heritage site. 

10. Moselle (Germany)

An intimate stretch of the wine-producing German region

Having traversed France and Luxembourg , the Moselle heads through Germany to meet its destiny with the Rhine at Koblenz. It’s a very pretty stretch of river flanked by vineyards, and makes for great leisurely cruising and exploration. With an astounding nine UNESCO World Heritage sites, gorgeous Trier shelters Germany’s finest ensemble of Roman monuments, and is enlivened by a characterful medieval center and large student population. Bernkastel-Kues are lovely twin settlements in the heart of wine country, while Cochem’s castle and pretty buildings make it a visual highlight of the Moselle .

How do I choose a route for a European river cruise?

The two major rivers for European cruises are the Rhine and the Danube. Together, they were once the northern boundary of the Roman Empire. Rhine cruises often run from Amsterdam to Basel, following the course of the river through Germany. Danube cruises start in southern Germany, wend their way through Bratislava, Slovakia; Linz and Vienna, Austria; and Belgrade, Serbia; then skirt the Bulgarian and Romanian border to reach the Black Sea.

While many first-time European river cruisers stick to these two rivers, there are many other options available. In Western Europe, you can cruise through the French countryside on the Rhône and Seine, or check out the vineyards of Portugal on the Douro. 

Even on the same river, distinct routes can be offered. One company might zip up the Rhine, allowing you to see the highlights in a few days; another might take longer, exploring smaller places along the way and offering more time for onshore experiences. You'll need to decide whether you’d like to get a look at more destinations, or more of a feel for fewer places.

When is the best time to go on a European river cruise?

Cruises on European rivers tend to begin in the spring, around March, and go through to October. Some cruises, operating in areas where Christmas markets are a feature, run right through December but inclement weather or river flooding could put a dampener on plans. Winter cruises tend to focus on places where Christmas experiences are on offer. Shorter daylight hours mean you’ll see less scenery, but the charm of the festive season has its own appeal. 

Choosing your season is very much a matter of personal preference, and there are pros and cons for each season. Summer cruises offer the most spectacular scenery, the longest daylight hours and the best weather, but the towns you visit will be far busier and you won’t be alone in port; in some smaller places, you may have to scramble across the decks of other boats to reach the shore.

Spring and autumn mean less time around the pool on the top deck, but quieter times ashore. Expect rains in spring, but also blooming flowers. Autumn is a great time to cruise the Douro, with grapes being picked and clement temperatures.

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7 Fantastic UNESCO Sites To Experience On A Danube River Cruise

T he Danube is one of the most popular rivers in Europe for its natural beauty and the many castle ruins, monasteries, and palaces you can see while cruising along the river.

In fact, there are so many fantastic sites to see along the Danube, you would need months or even years to see them all. If you’re on a river cruise, as I was, you’ll have a week or maybe 10 days; therefore, I’ve chosen what I believe are some of the most visually splendid UNESCO sites as I experienced them on Viking’s Danube Waltz.

Notably, the Danube flows through two capital cities rich in UNESCO designations: Budapest and Vienna. It was not easy to narrow down the list for this article, and I know many worthy sites and experiences have been left out. Nevertheless, I hope you’re inspired to do your own exploration of fantastic sites along the Danube River.

What Is A UNESCO Heritage Site?

The United Nations Education Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is a designation protecting the cultural heritage of places and monuments around the world. There are even intangible UNESCO designations such as Vienna’s coffee house culture.

A key aspect of UNESCO is that it helps to foster appreciation for a people’s culture and heritage, and it supports awareness and conservation.

Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is one of Europe’s most romantic cities. The mix of architectural styles, broad city streets, and the many bridges crossing the Danube River create an old-world atmosphere that feels as if you’ve traveled back in time. And, in November 2020, Conde Nast Traveler included the banks of the Danube in Budapest in its list as one of the most beautiful UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

There are three main districts designated UNESCO Cultural Heritage Sites in Budapest: Buda Castle Hill, the banks of the Danube River, and Andrassy Avenue. The Danube River divides the city with Buda Castle Hill on the west side and Andrassy Avenue on the east side. The most beautiful views are anywhere along the river and from Buda Castle Hill.

1. Buda Castle Hill

Buda, on the west bank, is the older part of the city, perched about 500 meters above the river. It is less populated and there is a wonderful mix of medieval, Baroque, and 19th-century architecture. The Buda Castle was built in 1265, but later buildings were added during the Baroque period. In the past, the castle complex was the home of Hungarian kings. Today, it houses the Hungarian National Gallery.

Part of the Buda Castle complex is the 700-year-old Matthias Church, named for King Matthias, who ruled between 1458 and 1490. He was the most popular Hungarian king, and under his rule, the country experienced peace and prosperity. He is sometimes referred to as Matthias the Just and is said to have been a bit of a Robin Hood. Be sure to visit the interior of the church with its gold leaf treasure and ornate stained-glass windows. Matthias Church was the coronation church for many Austrian Emperors.

The Fisherman’s Bastion is a viewing area built to celebrate the 1,000th birthday of the Hungarian State. It is usually crowded with people so don’t be in a rush. It is by far the best place from which to view the river and the monuments on its eastern banks.

Pro Tip: Buda Castle Hill provides the best views of the Danube River and the Parliament Building. You may encounter some steps and a few mildly steep hills, but overall it’s not too strenuous. To get there, walk across the Chain Bridge then take the funicular up the hill. Or, you may hire a taxi to take you up. It’s worth it for the views. Allow at least a half-day for visiting the Castle District.

2. The Szechenyi Bridge

The Szechenyi Bridge is also known as the chain bridge. This iconic monument is spectacular any time but for the most magical experience, be sure to view it at night. Built in 1849, it was the first permanent bridge to connect the east and west sides of the city, and it is the oldest bridge in Budapest. The bridge was blown up during World War II by the retreating German army leaving only the towers. It was rebuilt and reopened in 1949.

Pro Tip: The chain bridge and all of the historical monuments along the river are exquisitely lit at night. It’s easy to see why Budapest is often referred to as the Paris of the east. Do make time to walk across the bridge at night and admire the city from a different perspective.

3. Parliament Building

The Parliament Building was built between 1885 and 1902 on the east bank of the Danube in neo-Gothic style. The building symbolizes the importance of Budapest as the capital of Hungary. The exterior is impressive with its many domes, spires, and statues of Hungarian horsemen, but the real treasure is the inside, which is decorated with 88 pounds of gold.

Pro Tip: If you do visit the interior of the Parliament Building, plan to spend at least 2 hours.

Vienna, Austria

Before embarking on the Danube river cruise, what I knew about Vienna was that it was the home of Mozart (though he was born in Salzburg) and the Habsburgs. I had no idea that the historic center of the city is protected by UNESCO or that it was once the capital of the Holy Roman Empire and the Austro-Hungarian Empire.

What makes the city center fascinating is the layers of time exposed in the architecture and ruins that have been excavated. And of course, the history of the Habsburg Empire is seen everywhere, especially as you walk the Ringstrasse, or Ring Road, created in 1865 under the rule of Emperor Franz Joseph. At the time of its completion, it was considered quite chic to walk the Ringstrasse and possibly catch a glimpse of the Royals.

A few buildings of importance in the history and culture of Vienna include the Vienna State Opera, the Hofburg Palace (home of the Habsburgs), the gothic St. Stephen’s Cathedral, and many 19th-century buildings that were once residences. Altogether, it is an enchanting mixture that begs you to stay, and perhaps enjoy a Strauss Waltz or a classical music concert.

4. The Hofburg Palace

The Hofburg Imperial Palace was the home of Austrian sovereigns including the Habsburgs. The Habsburgs ruled for 600 years — from the 13th century until 1918. Like the city of Vienna itself, the Hofburg consists of many additions added over time. The original structures were built in the 13th century! I highly recommend a good guide well versed in the history of Austria to tour this important monument.

The buildings today house the Austrian government, however, the apartments and living quarters of Emperor Franz Joseph and Empress Elizabeth are open for tours.

Plan at least 2 hours to see the apartments, and if you want to visit other exhibitions at the palace, plan a half day.

Pro Tip: If you love all things equestrian you’ll want to at least walk by the stable of the Spanish Riding School where you may get lucky to see the Lipizzaner stallions in their stables. They are treated like royalty. You can purchase tickets for a tour or to watch a training session here.

5. Viennese Coffee Tradition

The Viennese coffee tradition has been designated a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage. You must not leave Vienna without having a coffee at one of the historic cafes . There are as many cafes as there are ways to enjoy your coffee. A few options are Cafe Ritter, one of Vienna’s oldest and most elegant cafes; Cafe Landtmann on the Ringstrasse; and Cafe Demel, once the cafe of the royal Habsburgs family. This is a very old and pretty cafe with seating indoors.

Pro Tip: In Vienna, you may linger as long as you like over your coffee. In fact, that is exactly what the Viennese do. Also, your coffee will be served on a silver tray with a glass of water on the side.

6. Gottweig Abbey

Gottweig Abbey overlooks the stunning Wachau Valley and the Danube. It is a working Benedictine monastery.

The original abbey was built in 1084 and became a Benedictine abbey in 1094. After a fire in the 18th century, the abbey was completely reconstructed in the Baroque style. Today, there are only 30 monks who live here. They maintain the grounds and work in the apricot orchard and vineyards. You can buy some of the apricot wine produced at the Abbey, as well as tour the extensive library and art collection.

Referred to as the Montecassino of Austria, Gottweig Abbey is a place of respite and provides a window into the monastic way of life.

7. The Wachau Valley

The Wachau Valley is most memorable for the breathtaking views of castle ruins, monasteries, and vertical vineyards that appear to be at 90-degree inclines. You will see the ruins of Durnstein Castle where King Richard of England, also known as Richard the Lionheart, was imprisoned. The Wachau also encompasses Melk Abbey and the Abbey at Durnstein, which you’ll see on the shore just below the ruins of the castle. Cruising the Wachau Valley is a highlight of the Danube River cruise. 

Pro Tip: If there is one thing I wish I had known before embarking on the Danube River cruise, it’s that there is so much to see, a week is like a movie trailer — just enough to get you really interested in the main feature. It’s a good idea to book some extra days in one of your favorite cities, be it Budapest, Vienna, or another port on the river. Once you’re there, make the most of it!

Related Reading:

• 7 Best River Cruise Lines Around The World
• American Cruise Lines Unveils Its Longest U.S. River Cruise — The Four Rivers You’ll Explore In 60 Days
• 7 Things I Loved About Viking’s Paris & The Heart Of Normandy River Cruise

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Updates on Current Sailings

High water (european rivers) – as of june 3, 2024.

Currently, sections of the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers are experiencing high water levels. To varying degrees, these conditions may affect select itineraries. Our Switzerland-based nautical team is continually monitoring the situation and will make any necessary adjustments to accommodate the conditions. Guests and their Travel Advisors will continue to be notified directly if we think that their itinerary might be impacted. Viking has two key advantages with regard to handling water level disruptions. First, we own and operate our ships. We have a Switzerland-based nautical team and a network of local partners and authorities that are focused on monitoring and adapting to current water levels to ensure our guests experience the least possible disruption. Second, we strategically launch sister ships on the same itinerary, but sailing in opposite directions. In the event of high (or low) water, this tactic allows us to implement a ship swap that is typically seamless for guests – both they and their luggage are able to be transferred to their exact, identical stateroom on a sister ship that was purposefully sailing on the other half of the river in preparation for such a disruption. These advantages allow us to minimize the impact that water levels can have on itinerary, which means our guests are better able to focus on enjoying themselves and having a great journey, rather than worrying about potential changes or cancellations.

For Further Assistance

If you have any questions or need further information please contact Reservations at 1-877-523-0579 or email [email protected] , Monday – Friday, 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM; Saturday and Sunday, 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM, PT.

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• River Cruise Ship Evacuated, Danube Shut Down Amid Historic Flooding

Parts of the Danube River are already flooding, or expected to flood soon. Photo: Daniel Zsingor / Shutterstock.com 

Updated June 7: Updated to identify the ship that was evacuated as the Tui Isla, a Tui River Cruises vessel. 

Around 140 passenger were evacuated from the Tui Isla on the Danube River in Southern Germany early this week. Simultaneously, Austria has shut the river down to all traffic. This amidst historic flooding that led Germany to declare a state of emergency on Monday. 

According to reports passengers from the United States, the U.K., and Australia were removed from the ship, which had been stuck in place since Sunday.

Rain has been heavy for several days in southern Germany, with some regions – particularly Bavaria and Baden-Wurttemberg – experiencing heavy flooding. Several people have died, including a firefighter involved in rescuing a family, MSN reported .

According to DPA International , Austria shut down the entire 350 kilometer course of the Danube within its borders between the border cities of Passau in Germany and Bratislava in Slovakia. The closure, the report stated, forced "some cruise ships" to dock in Linz. The Danube burst the banks in Linz on Tuesday.

A spokesperson for the state waterway company, Via Donau , said "Safety cannot be guaranteed above a certain water level."

Hungary is also expecting trouble, with the mayor of Budapest issuing a flood alert (first-degree, lowest level) on Tuesday. The lower embankment of the river in Budapest is expected to close to traffic from 8 p.m. on Thursday. 

TMR reached out to river cruise lines to find out how their sailings have been impacted. At least one -- Avalon Waterways -- has already made the decision to cancel two sailings. 

"The Danube is experiencing higher-than-average water levels, due to an unprecedented amount of rain in the last month. This week, we made the decision to cancel two cruises on the lower Danube, due to ship access and availability," Pam Hoffee, president of Avalon Waterways, told TMR. 

The canceled sailings are the June 7 Balkan Discovery sailing and the June 13 Active & Discovery on the Lower Danube departure. 

"For both, we provided cruisers – and their travel advisors – options, recognizing the inconvenience" Hoffee said. "Other cruises departing this week on the upper Danube are experiencing itinerary deviations. Our operations team is constantly monitoring the situation and making any necessary updates to accommodate the conditions while ensuring the best possible experience for our guests."

Viking directed TMR to its website and the following statement: "Currently, sections of the Rhine, Main and Danube rivers are experiencing high water levels. To varying degrees, these conditions may affect select itineraries. Our Switzerland-based nautical team is continually monitoring the situation and will make any necessary adjustments to accommodate the conditions. Guests and their Travel Advisors will continue to be notified directly if we think that their itinerary might be impacted."

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At least two sailings on the Danube River have been canceled due to unusually high waters.

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Austria closes Danube to shipping in response to flooding

The entire course of the Danube in Austria has been closed to shipping due to flooding caused by heavy rainfall in the country, and in neighbouring southern Germany.

The state waterway company, via donau, announced the closure on Tuesday. "Safety cannot be guaranteed above a certain water level," Christoph Caspar, spokesman for via donau, told dpa. How long the measure will remain in force depends on further rainfall and the water levels in the Danube's tributaries.

The Danube flows over 350 kilometres through Austria, from the Bavarian border city of Passau to the Slovakian capital Bratislava, also on the border.

The closure forced some cruise ships to dock in Linz, where the Danube burst its banks on Tuesday. Some roads were also closed. In Schärding, which lies on the river Inn, a tributary of the Danube, defences were increased to prevent major flooding.

As water levels on the Bavarian Danube across the border in Germany continued to rise, slight increases were also recorded on the Upper Austrian Danube, the Hydrographic Service of Upper Austria reported on Tuesday afternoon. Overall, however, the experts expected the situation to ease soon.

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It's time for the men's final on the clay court at Roland Garros. Here's how to tune into Alcaraz vs. Zverev.

Jon Rahm withdraws from LIV Golf Houston event due to foot injury

Jon Rahm withdrew from the LIV Golf Houston event during Saturday's second round. He has been dealing with a cut between two toes that developed into an infection.

Lisa Rinna, 60, uses this tinted sunscreen — it's FSA or HSA-eligible at Amazon

The former Real Housewife and 14,000 enthusiastic shoppers, rave about this double-duty cream.

Dolly Parton fans rush to her defense after conservative magazine attacks her support for LGBTQ rights

The country star has long spoken about her love for all people.

Bereave wants employers to suck a little less at navigating death

If death and taxes are inevitable, why are companies so prepared for taxes, but not for death? “I lost both of my parents in college, and it didn’t initially spark this interest to go start a business around my experience,” said Bereave co-founder Elijah Linder. In the immediate aftermath of Linder’s loss, founding a company would have been a long shot.

Joro spiders: What to know as the colorful invasive species moves up the East Coast

Are Joro spiders a threat to humans? Where are they in the U.S.? Here's what you need to know.

Dodgers' Kiké Hernández makes error during in-game interview, but doesn't think he was distracted

Los Angeles Dodgers infielder Kiké Hernández made an error while doing a live in-game interview during Apple TV+'s broadcast.

The 35+ best Walmart deals this weekend — Dyson, Nintendo, Samsung and more

Massive markdowns on deck: a Dad-ready smoker for half off, a Dyson vac for just $300, and The Frame smart TV for under $800.

Kyle Tucker heads to IL with right shin contusion as Astros' injuries pile up

Cristian Javier and José Urquidy both underwent Tommy John surgery this week.

Jontay Porter's lawyer says banned NBA player was 'in over his head' because of gambling addiction

Porter is receiving treatment and cooperating with authorities.

Amazon shoppers love this 'flattering and slimming' flowy top — and it's just $14

Over 5,000 shoppers are five-star fans: 'For someone with bigger arms, these sleeves are awesome,' says one.

The Marc Anthony conditioner may help save your thinning hair — and it's just $8

'My hair has never grown like this before': More than 37,000 five-star reviewers rave about this detangler.

Messenger's new community chats don't need to be connected to Facebook groups

Meta will now let you create massive community chats on Messenger with people you aren't connected to in any way.

Formula 1: Williams team principal says his team is the 'right option' for Carlos Sainz in 2025

Sainz is leaving Ferrari at the end of the 2024 season and his main options for next season appear to be Sauber or Williams.

Paul Maurice, Panthers head coach and hockey lifer, seeks first Stanley Cup: 'I need to win one'

Maurice has been coaching in the NHL since 1995. This is his third appearance in the Stanley Cup Final.

For contract workers, saving for retirement can be daunting. Here's how to get started.

Saving for retirement can be tricky for self-employed workers, but there are some painless saving options to help.

This $17 burger press is the secret to summer success, according to a food writer

Win Father's Day with this No. 1 bestselling cast iron patty maker from Cuisinart.