cruises on the danube river vienna

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 & do in Budapest

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

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Vienna Trips by Activity

• Vienna biking (32)
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• Vienna land & sea exploration (7)

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Heart of the Danube: Bavaria to Budapest

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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.

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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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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

+43 1 588 80

[email protected]

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.

MS_Wien_Grosse_Donaurundfahrt

Ms_blue_danube_dinner_cruise.

Dinner Cruise oder City Cruise

Dinner_Cruise

Entspannte Atmosphäre auf Donauwellen

Schiff + Schnitzel

Vienna_Lunch_Boat

Gemütliche Auszeit am Wasser.

Beste Entspannung und schönste Aussicht

Rettungsring_DDSG_Blue_Danube

bei der DDSGBl

Schulterklappe

Steht Ihnen zur Verfügung. Schiff ahoi!

Danube Classics Vienna 2024

Highlights of the Danube River Cruise

A composition of culture and relaxation, history and indulgence..

From Vienna to Esztergom, Budapest, Bratislava, Krems, Melk and Engelhartszell (Passau) to Vienna.

Vienna has produced some of the world’s most famous composers: Mozart, Schubert, Beethoven – all of them were either born in the Austrian capital or lived here. Were they inspired by the Danube? Possibly, seeing as the river brought so many different cultures and ethnicities to the cities located on its banks. Vienna’s imperial grandeur, Budapest’s breathtaking examples of Hungarian art nouveau and Bratislava’s almost anarchic stylistic mixture of socialism and Baroque. And music is constantly in the air – those with two left feet will be pleased to know that it’s not all Viennese waltzes.

Once you've been in Vienna for a few hours, you won't want to leave again so soon. Instead, you want to visit the countless cafés where the traditional Viennese coffee house culture is still alive today. Also contributing to the fascination for this city is the great history surrounding the emperors, Sissi and the Habsburgs with their pompous lifestyle. Or you can listen to the sounds of Viennese classical music. In addition, the Austrian capital is also a culinary delight. It is not for nothing that the famous Wiener Schnitzel and Sachertorte can be found almost everywhere in the world now.

On one bank of the Danube is hilly Buda with its Fisherman’s Bastion and Castle Hill; on the other, there’s flat Pest with its House of Parliament. These two beautiful districts couldn’t be more different. Perhaps that’s why it took until 1873 for the two cities on opposite sides of the river to merge and form Budapest.

Slovakia’s capital is situated exactly at the point where the country meets Austria and Hungary. This makes it the only capital city in the world that borders more than one neighbouring country. Due to its location, Bratislava has been an ethnic melting pot since ancient times. This influence can be seen in every corner of the city.

It’s so easy to relax on our ships that it almost seems as though they were built for this purpose only. Sit back, allow yourself to unwind and enjoy the warm temperatures as the scenery drifts by. Our aim is to help you to achieve complete relaxation and replenish your energy so that you finish your cruise invigorated, inspired and ready to get back to everyday life. Enjoy massages with nourishing oils and essences, facials to help your skin feel fully replenished and beauty treatments that will leave you looking radiant.

€ 200 SUPER EARLY BOOKING DISCOUNT 2024

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

1st Day Vienna

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!

2nd Day Vienna Dep 06:30 pm

From the Ringstrasse over the St Stephen's Cathedral to the Giant Ferris Wheel in the Prater, Vienna has plenty to offer for your second day. Visit a cosy coffee house and experience the true Viennese coffee culture. Schönbrunn Palace is also worth a visit. The beautiful baroque complex is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and also boasts modern technology: an elaborate virtual reality film lets visitors relive the history of the palace.

Do you fancy spending the whole day following in the footsteps of Empress Elisabeth, also known as Sisi? Or would you prefer to sample a bit of Viennese coffee-house culture, do a spot of shopping, take a ride in a horse-drawn carriage and then maybe head over to Danube Island? You decide exactly what you’ll do, always confident that you’re in good hands. Your personal tour guide will help you to explore Vienna exactly as you wish.

€ 359 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.

Had an idea for a special tour? Your private people carrier for up to five people will take you to the exact sights that you want to see. You can also book an expert tour guide at the same time if you wish.

€ 399 per reservation for max. 5 people

Private Minivan

Would you like to explore Vienna by yourself? Your private car for up to two people will take you to the exact sights that you want to see. You can also book an expert tour guide at the same time if you wish.

€ 379 per reservation for max. 2 people

Private car

Enjoy a nostalgic ride through the beautiful city of Vienna. Discover the city in comfort, protected from the elements in an electrically powered classic car that travels at a maximum speed of 10 km/h. Sit back and relax as you explore the city. After a short taxi ride into the city centre, your tour will begin and you’ll take in sights such as the Hofburg Palace, the Town Hall, the elegant street, Herrengasse and Stephansplatz Square. The classic cars are modelled on originals from the 1920s.

€ 299 per reservation for max. 5 people

approx. 1.5 h

Taxi, Oldtimer and walking

When visiting Vienna, the coffee houses should not be left out. On a private tour you will experience the Viennese coffeehouse culture and everything that goes with it. Where does the delicious coffee come from, what roasts and varieties are used, and what is the celebration of coffee making all about? Trace the spirit of the old literati and artists and send your sense of taste on a journey of pleasure through the world of coffee in three of Vienna's best-known and most popular coffee houses.

€ 859 per reservation for max. 5 people

approx. 4 h

Car and walking

Explore Vienna by bike in the soft morning light – breathtaking and good for you all at once. You will cycle along the Danube to the Freudenau lock and then directly to Danube Island, Vienna's most popular recreation area. On the way back, you will take the quieter paths and enjoy a fantastic view of your A-ROSA ship from the Reichsbrücke. Can a day start any more lovely?

€ 29 per person

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

Distance: approx. 20km

Follow in the footsteps of world-famous musicians and experience the unique atmosphere of the Vienna Central Cemetery. The Vienna Central Cemetery has many faces: On the one hand, it is the last resting place, not least of Ludwig van Beethoven or Udo Jürgens, and the most important cemetery of Vienna. On the other hand, it is an impressive park and recreation area as well as a place of contemplation. This diversity makes it a very special sight in the city.

€ 55 per person

approx. 3.5 h

Bus and walking

3rd Day Esztergom Arr 08:00 am Dep 10:30 am Budapest Arr 03:00 pm

Once the capital of Hungary, Esztergom sits right on the bank of the Danube and can be admired directly from the river. The castle tower and mighty basilica form an amazing sight, rising up from the steep bank of the Danube. This is a view you’ll definitely want to photograph during your Danube cruise. So, it’s a good thing that A-ROSA ships have such pleasant sun decks!

The view when the small tourist train approaches the summit of the castle of Esztergom will surely amaze you. In front of you, the largest neoclassical basilica in Hungary - 118 metres long and 48 metres wide - awaits. Its huge green dome towers far over the city and simply takes your breath away. Before you reach the Basilica, you'll hear all about this impressive place and the city of Esztergom. In addition to a small historical chapel, you can also visit the main nave of the Basilica with its gigantic altar. The altar piece is the largest painting in the world, painted on a single canvas. After a fascinating look around, you'll return by train to your A-ROSA ship.

€ 45 per person

Train and walking

Do you know how many bridges Budapest has? There are seven in total – and they span the river between the neighbourhoods Buda and Pest. The most well known is probably the Széchenyi Chain Bridge. Take a look at Budapest’s imposing structures for yourself as you cruise down the Danube. And if you go out onto the sun deck of your A-ROSA ship, you’ll also have an unobstructed view of Budapest’s famous parliament building. The perfect way to experience a stunning city.

4th Day Budapest Dep 03:00 pm

Explore more of the Hungarian capital on your second day in Budapest. The historic Fisherman's Bastion is waiting to be discovered and invites you to enjoy stunning vistas. The second largest city along the Danube is also home to the historic Gellért Baths. Here you can relax in a unique atmosphere.

To Margaret Island, a little shopping afterwards and ending at Castle Hill? Or would you prefer to leisurely stroll along the Váci Utca and then enjoy a coffee at Café New York? You can plan your perfect day in Budapest on your own. It's up to you. With your personal guide and driver, you can explore Budapest individually.

€ 229 per reservation for max. 5 people

Travel in comfort and visit all the parts of Budapest that you really want to see. You can also book an expert tour guide at the same time if you wish.

Your driver will take you and your partner or travel companion to various places of interest such as Castle Hill, Gellert Baths and Spa or Heroes’ Square. You can also book an expert tour guide at the same time if you wish.

€ 359 per reservation for max. 2 people

Up close, but comfortably leaned back, discover one of the most beautiful cities in Europe on this private Tuk Tuk tour. Whether Chain Bridge, Parliament or Margaret Island - there is so much to discover in the Hungarian capital Budapest. Let yourself be enchanted by this beautiful city with its thermal springs and art nouveau buildings and in the middle of it all the blue Danube.

€ 219 per reservation for max. 2 people

approx. 2 h

Tuk Tuk and walking

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

It's not just the destination that's the reward here, but the journey too. Especially over such an impressive metropolis as Budapest! After a short drive to the airport, you will board your helicopter and enjoy the 'Queen of the Danube' for 20 minutes from a bird's eye view.

€ 899 per reservation for max. 2 people

Transfer and flight

Join us on an exclusive tour of Budapest's culinary highlights. Not far from our berth is one of Budapest's most distinctive buildings. With approximately 10,000 square metres, the Budapest Market Hall is one of the largest in Europe and should not be missed during a visit to Budapest. In addition to the market hall, a trip to one of the strudel houses is also one of Hungary's culinary highlights. Take the tram along the banks of the Danube to a strudel house. There you can try the typical strudel with meat and sauerkraut. Finally, walk to Café Gerbaud, where all the sweet treats await you, before walking back to the ship.

€ 559 per reservation for max. 5 people

walking and tram

Anspruchsvoll

Budapest in golden-hued morning sun - unforgettable! And during a bicycle ride especially refreshing. You will cycle past the Academy of Sciences, the imposing Parliament – incidentally the largest building in Hungary - and the magnificent Ethnographic Museum to Margarete Island. The island is the green lung of the city and, at the same time, a leisure oasis with thermal springs, spa and sports baths, playgrounds, magnificent gardens, promenades and even a medieval monastery ruin.

Distance: approx. 15km

Get out of the city hustle and bustle and into the Hungarian low mountain range called Transdanubia. Escape the big city with your family, head to the Buda Mountains for the famous children's railway and get a taste of mountain air on short hikes. The children's railway is a narrow-gauge railway operated by children. For example, the conductors are children who accompany you through the beautiful mountain landscape. After a short ride, you get off and start your hike to a lookout tower from where you have a fantastic panoramic view. After a picnic break, you walk on to the next station of the children's railway. Back at the original railway station, the coach will take you back to the ship.

€ 69 per person

Experience the charm and splendour of bygone eras on an unforgettable excursion to the majestic Gödöllö Castle. Enter the majestic halls of Gödöllö Castle and discover the history of the Habsburg monarchy on a castle tour. The castle served as a summer residence for Empress Elisabeth of Austria and King Franz Joseph I, and you'll have the opportunity to follow in their royal footsteps. Admire the opulent interiors of the royal chambers, the ornately designed furniture and historical details. Afterwards, spend your free time in the castle's extensive gardens and enjoy the oasis of peace and beauty.

€ 82 per person

5th Day Bratislava Arr 09:00 am Dep 03:30 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

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

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

Join us on an adventure for young and old at Bratislava Zoo. In the foothills of the Carpathian Mountains, the Bratislava Zoological Garden is 96 square metres in size and is home to over 1000 animals. Stroll through the leafy forest and marvel at the variety of animals, from tropical monkeys to sloths, rhinos, flamingos and many more! In addition to the zoo, the Bratislava Zoo also houses a dinosaur park. Here you can marvel at an exhibition of life-size dinosaur models.

€ 49 per person

Discover the beautiful old town of Bratislava, which you you can find not far from our berth. Old and new mix together in this unique city. Numerous students enjoy their time in idyllic cafés in front of a historical scenery. You will pass Renaissance town houses and baroque palaces. Right next to those, you can also find modern statues throughout the old town.

This excursion is included on your cruise

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

Distance: approx. 37km

6th Day Krems Arr 08:00 am Dep 08:30 am Melk Arr 12:30 pm Dep 01:00 pm

Krems an der Donau is not far from the Austrian capital of Vienna. The city is part of the Wachau, a stretch of the Danube valley and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Your Danube cruise will take you through Krems, passing through the Wachau on the way to and from Vienna.

Discover the unique Wachau with your private English-speaking guide and learn interesting and exciting information about the beautiful landscape and villages. Whether the story of the blue and white baroque church in Dürnstein or everything about the landmark of the Wachau, Melk Abbey. You choose the programme and your tour guide will provide you with anecdotes and facts.

€ 529 per reservation for max. 5 people

Can only be booked in combination with a van or car. This excursion is only bookable on request. We recommend that you make a reservation online.

Experience the unique Wachau from Dürnstein and Krems to Spitz or Melk. Enjoy the beautiful landscape and the unique region along the banks of the Danube. Your private people carrier will take you from A to B in a very relaxed way. You can also book an expert guide at the same time if you wish.

€ 699 per reservation for max. 5 people

Are you travelling as a couple and would like to explore the beautiful Wachau region individually? Then book your private car for up to 2 people and discover the unique region. You can also book an expert tour guide at the same time if you wish.

€ 659 per reservation for max. 2 people

Welcome to an unforgettable journey through the picturesque Wachau, where history meets natural beauty. Our tour takes you on a journey of discovery through charming Dürnstein and leads you to the historic walls of Artstetten Castle. Experience the charm of Dürnstein, a medieval town, with its colourful houses, narrow streets and the imposing blue tower. Enjoy the walk through the historic old town before passing endless vineyards as you continue your journey through the Wachau. Then immerse yourself in the history of the majestic Artstetten Castle, perched on a hill overlooking the Danube. The castle was once the summer residence of the Austrian Archduke Franz Ferdinand. Discover the magnificent rooms, stroll through the royal gardens and learn more about the fascinating history of this historic place.

€ 79 per person

approx. 4.5 h

With the help of some fresh wind on your face, you can explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site Wachau. Starting in Krems and ending in Melk, you will cycle through quaint streets and idyllic vineyards. Luscious green valleys accompany you throughout the ride. It is best to enjoy the scenery during a short stop in one of the small restaurants along the trail. The 'Steiner Landstraße' - highlight of this cycle tour - is one of Austria's most beautiful roads.

A visit to Melk, the ‘Gateway to the Wachau’, brings you to the Danube Valley UNESCO World Heritage Site, where you can marvel at glorious landscapes. And no trip to the Wachau would be complete without a trip to Melk Abbey, a Benedictine monastery. This is a region where towns and landscapes appear to exist in perfect harmony.

7th Day Engelhartszell (Passau) Arr 07:00 am Dep 05:00 pm

Engelhartszell is located on the Austrian side. Let yourself be enchanted by the small village with the collegiate church and the Cistercian monastery. In Passau old town charm, church history and pure joie de vivre come together. A perfect conclusion to your Danube cruise before heading back to Vienna.

8th Day Vienna Arr 01:00 pm

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 April 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 April 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

28. apr 2024 - 05. may 2024 a-rosa donna from € 1,949 pp select cabin from € 1,949 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 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. May 2024 - 12. May 2024 A-ROSA DONNA from € 2,012 pp select cabin from € 2,012 pp

12. may 2024 - 19. may 2024 a-rosa donna from € 2,012 pp select cabin from € 2,012 pp, 19. may 2024 - 26. may 2024 a-rosa donna from € 2,412 pp select cabin from € 2,412 pp, 26. may 2024 - 02. jun 2024 a-rosa donna from € 2,012 pp select cabin from € 2,012 pp, 02. jun 2024 - 09. jun 2024 a-rosa donna from € 1,949 pp select cabin from € 1,949 pp, 09. jun 2024 - 16. jun 2024 a-rosa donna from € 1,949 pp select cabin from € 1,949 pp, 16. jun 2024 - 23. jun 2024 a-rosa donna from € 1,949 pp select cabin from € 1,949 pp, 23. jun 2024 - 30. jun 2024 a-rosa donna from € 1,949 pp select cabin from € 1,949 pp, 30. jun 2024 - 07. jul 2024 a-rosa donna from € 1,949 pp select cabin from € 1,949 pp, 07. jul 2024 - 14. jul 2024 a-rosa donna from € 1,949 pp select cabin from € 1,949 pp, 14. jul 2024 - 21. jul 2024 a-rosa donna from € 1,949 pp select cabin from € 1,949 pp, 21. jul 2024 - 28. jul 2024 a-rosa donna from € 1,949 pp select cabin from € 1,949 pp, 28. jul 2024 - 04. aug 2024 a-rosa donna from € 1,949 pp select cabin from € 1,949 pp, 04. aug 2024 - 11. aug 2024 a-rosa donna from € 1,949 pp select cabin from € 1,949 pp, 11. aug 2024 - 18. aug 2024 a-rosa donna from € 2,349 pp select cabin from € 2,349 pp, 18. aug 2024 - 25. aug 2024 a-rosa donna from € 1,949 pp select cabin from € 1,949 pp, 25. aug 2024 - 01. sep 2024 a-rosa donna from € 1,949 pp select cabin from € 1,949 pp, 01. sep 2024 - 08. sep 2024 a-rosa donna from € 1,949 pp select cabin from € 1,949 pp, 15. sep 2024 - 22. sep 2024 a-rosa donna from € 1,949 pp select cabin from € 1,949 pp, 22. sep 2024 - 29. sep 2024 a-rosa donna from € 1,949 pp select cabin from € 1,949 pp, 29. sep 2024 - 06. oct 2024 a-rosa donna from € 1,699 pp select cabin from € 1,699 pp, 06. oct 2024 - 13. oct 2024 a-rosa donna from € 1,699 pp select cabin from € 1,699 pp, 13. oct 2024 - 20. oct 2024 a-rosa donna from € 1,499 pp select cabin from € 1,499 pp, arrival & hotel, travel yourself - park safely, e. g. with lufthansa, austrian airlines, eurowings, klm, swiss, 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

Ships on this cruise

A-rosa donna.

The Blue Danube River Cruise: Vienna, Budapest & Salzburg

The blue danube river cruise.

Vienna, Budapest & Salzburg

8 days from only $2,249pp

Price Includes

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The Blue Danube River Cruise Vienna, Budapest & Salzburg

Save up to $250pp off a voyage on our brand-new ship ms riviera radiance.

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The price you see is the price you pay

• Tour the most historic towns and cities along the Danube, including guided tours of Vienna, Dürnstein, Budapest and Bratislava.
• Visit Esztergom Basilica and Melk Abbey.
• Explore Salzburg or Linz with an expert guide on a tour of the town's most interesting sights.
• Immerse yourself in the local culture with a Hungarian folklore show on board.
• Enjoy a classical Live music performance on board with stunning views of Vienna.

Click here to see our departures available exclusively for solo travelers

Stepping aboard you will appreciate the superb surroundings of your floating luxury hotel for the next seven nights with spacious and well-appointed cabins or suites, private bathrooms and meticulously prepared fine cuisine.

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 200m long Emperor’s Gallery, lined with portraits of Austrian emperors.

Soon we arrive in Linz where we take the short drive to Salzburg. During the guided tour of the old town we will see the imposing fortress Hohensalzburg towering over the city and of course the birthplace and residence of Mozart, Salzburg’s most famous citizen.  On our way back eastwards we will reach classical Vienna, home of Strauss and many great composers. This city offers up so much wonderful architecture as well as a host of other things to see including the Spanish riding school.

Finally, cruising into Hungary, we arrive back in imperial Budapest, straddling the picturesque Danube. After a guided tour of this palatial city we spend the evening on board, where the Captain hosts another spectacular dinner, an excellent finale to this most exceptional and relaxing cruise.

Your Itinerary

• DAY 1 EMBARK 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 DISEMBARK IN BUDAPEST

EMBARK IN BUDAPEST

Arrive in Budapest, where your five-star floating hotel is moored. The dedicated crew will welcome you on board, ensuring you settle into your comfortable and extremely well-equipped cabin and familiarize yourself with the ship. There is 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 of you.

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 artifacts. 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 Dürnstein during dinner.

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-colored 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-colored 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 saber 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’: 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 traveling companions and reflect on all the inspirational places, sights and sounds you have experienced on a truly ‘imperial’ cruise.

DISEMBARK IN BUDAPEST

After breakfast this morning, the crew bids you farewell before you disembark the ship.

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

• Full board from dinner on your day of arrival until breakfast on your final day; if you choose to travel with us on any of the full day excursions by coach, a packed lunch will be provided. Anyone choosing to stay on the ship may of course have lunch in the restaurant
• A packed lunch during the full day trip to Salzburg
• Five-star service from an English-speaking crew and knowledgeable local guides 
• Complimentary on-board tea and coffee 
• Complimentary on-board Wi-Fi
• All visits and excursions as mentioned
• Coach travel as mentioned
• The services of a Riviera River Cruises cruise director

Useful Information

• Currency: Euro, Forint
• Languages: Hungarian, German, Slovak
• Countries: Austria, Hungary, Slovakia

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

We want to ensure you make the correct choice before you book your vacation with us. If you have any concerns regarding the suitability of the vacation due to reduced mobility we would encourage you to contact us to discuss these concerns. 

Visit the Spanish Riding School in Vienna from €16pp

Enjoy a visit to the Spanish Riding School, the only institution in the world that has practised classical equitation in the Renaissance tradition of the haute école for over 440 years and continues to do so.

Please contact us   for details.

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Danube River Cruises

Travel through the modern city of Amsterdam in Western Europe on the Danube that slowly descends into Eastern Europe passing historic landmarks, such as Salzburg (the city of music), and trendy hipster-style destinations such as Budapest. Take a Danube river cruise adventure if you enjoy history, exquisite food and unforgettable experiences. This collection of European river cruises  (and European river cruise lines ) will sweep you away into a dreamlike space filled with new experiences, sights, sounds, smells and gastronomic encounters. You’ll also find cruise deals like no other.

250+ Danube river cruises with 469 reviews

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

Had a great time on this cruise. Friendly Ukrainian crew that were exceptional given the terror Russia is inflicting on their country. very good rooms. Wine and beer were complimentary. The only complaint at our table of guests was that all the 'hot' stuff at breakfast was only warm or room temperature..

Danube Serenade: Romantic Journey from Vienna to Bucharest (Turnu Magurele) , MS Fidelio

Danube Classics Vienna 2024

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!

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

The tour exceeded all our expectations. We will definitely recognize this company to all our friends and family. Will also do another one in the near future.

Melodies of the Danube 2024

Danube Classics 2024 (including Krems an der Donau)

Romantic Danube 2024

Enchanting Danube (2024) (Passau to Budapest, 2024)

This was our first river cruise and everything went beyond our expectation. Services: the staff were accommodating and helpful. Tours: various excursions to choose from for different age group and they were well-organized. Ship: beautiful boutique-design ship. The only cons is a slow Wifi connection but it ain't a big deal. There were so many onboard activity that kept us entertaining. I noticed that the cruise operates in eco-friendly manner, i.e. they eliminates sing-use plastic. That's a big plus!!!!

Enchanting Danube (2024) (Budapest to Passau, 2024)

Splendours of Europe (Start Amsterdam, End Budapest)

The program in the Emerald ship was magnificently planned and discussed. The local music during the cruise was so informative. Long live the music from the Netherlands and Germany through Austria and Slovakya to Hungary! Just for the music, dances and songs I will do the cruise again!

Splendours of Europe (Start Budapest, End Amsterdam)

Capital Cities Along the Danube (port-to-port cruise)

Thoroughly enjoyed. Even though we were the only 2 english speaking people on the the tour everyone made an effort and we made good friends.

The Legendary Danube 2024

A Taste of the Danube (Westbound)

First class ship, excellent Cruise Director and crew, splendid food, very high standard of guides on included excursions, brilliant virtuosity and entertainment from Pressberger Duo,optional concert in Vienna superb.

Germany & Austria | Danube River Biketour | Bike & Boat

Reviews of danube cruises.

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

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

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Vienna Boat Tour: Cruise the Danube River with these Day Tours

Let’s help you choose the right Vienna boat tour for your trip!

The Danube River runs through Vienna, but because it doesn’t cross right through the Innere Stadt or District 1, which is the old town, it can be easy to miss.

Between the palace, cathedral, museums, art galleries and famous cafes, you could very easily come to the end of your trip in Vienna and realize, you haven’t yet walked along the Danube Canal, let alone the Danube River!

So if you want to cruise the Danube, you’re going to have to be proactive and book a tour. But which one should you pick and where should you cruise?

When it comes to picking a Vienna boat trip, there are no shortage of options. You can take a day trip to Bratislava and then travel back by boat, spend the day exploring the Wachau Valley vineyards on a cruise, enjoy a boat tour with dinner and live music, try out a private e-boat and so much more.

So we’re going to help you figure out which of these Vienna boat tours is right for you! Let’s narrow it down.

My Top 3 Picks: Vienna Boat Tour

Vienna to Bratislava Tour by Bus and Boat

✅ Day trip to Bratislava

✅ Full-day tour

✅ Plenty of time for exploration

Wachau Valley Day Tour with Wine Tasting

✅ Scenic boat ride

✅ Great summer tour

✅ Visit wineries

Heurigen Cruise with Viennese Songs and Buffet

✅ Viennese songs

✅ Buffet dinner

✅ Sunset views

Best Vienna Boat Tour

1. vienna to bratislava tour by bus and boat.

⭐️  RATING:  4.2/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  11.5 hours | ✅  Book it!

This Vienna boat tour is an exciting one because it takes you all the way to Bratislava, Slovakia! That means you can add another European country to your list!

On the way to Bratislava, you travel by bus. This is a 1-hour journey aboard a coach bus.

Once you arrive in Bratislava, you will meet a local guide who will take you on a guided walking tour of the old town. The tour will last about 2 hours and afterwards, you’ll have additional time to explore Bratislava on your own and perhaps retrace your steps to some of the attractions that most interest you.

A few attractions not to be missed in Bratislava’s old town include:

St. Martin’s Cathedral, a Gothic cathedral that’s been the site of many coronations; Michael’s Gate, the only gate that has been preserved in the city; the Bratislava Fortifications, the last remaining stretch of the medieval city walls; and Roland Fountain, a fountain topped by Knight Roland who was the legendary defender of the city.

I would suggest making time to visit Bratislava Castle. Built in the 9th century and modified many times over, this 4-towered castle sits perched on a hill overlooking the Danube River.

It’s a beautiful walk to the top offering nice views over the Old Town, plus you also have the Slovak National Museum and the Baroque Gardens on the north side.

You’ll also have plenty of time to try Slovak food during the day. I really enjoyed a restaurant called Modrá Hviezda which is set in a cave at the foot of the castle hill. It’s a pretty unique dining experience so ask to be seated in the back if there’s room.

We ordered pork chop covered in crushed walnuts with a honey-mustard sauce and a side of roasted potatoes, and duck cooked in a wine sauce with forest mushroom and potato pancakes.

After enjoying your day trip to Bratislava , you’ll make your way down to the pier to board the boat to Vienna. You’ll travel aboard the Twin City Liner, which is a catamaran. The journey time back to Vienna is 1.5 hours.

Bring your passport on this boat trip as you are entering another country and you may be required to present it.

• You get to visit another country
• Full-day activity
• Plenty of time for solo exploration

Check Prices and Availability!

2. Wachau Valley Day Tour with Wine Tasting

⭐️  RATING:  4.8/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  9 hours | ✅  Book it!

This day trip to the Wachau Valley isn’t a full-day boat tour, however, it does include a boat tour segment in the itinerary when you do this trip during the summer months!

You’ll start the day leaving Vienna and travelling by van down narrow countryside roads deep into the heart of the Wachau Valley.

Along the way, your driver and guide will teach you all about the history of wine-making in the region which dates back to the time of the Romans!

During the tour, you’ll get to taste a variety of dry and fruity white wines from the Wachau Valley and sample other local delicacies like apricot jams and liqueurs.

If you take this tour during the summer months (technically mid-May to mid-October), you’ll be able to enjoy a boat ride on the Danube River from Spitz to Melk. Since this isn’t possible during the winter months, this activity gets replaced with a guided tour of Melk Abbey.

Once you arrive in the medieval town of Dürnstein, you’ll get free time to explore. The castle ruins are an important attraction in the area since this is where Richard the Lionhearted was once held prisoner.

Finally, you’ll get to visit a heuriger , which is a traditional family-run Austrian wine tavern. Here you’ll enjoy a wine tasting!

You can browse more wine tours in Vienna here.

• Great way to explore an Austrian wine region
• Visits beautiful medieval towns
• Scenic boat ride during the summer months

3. Heurigen Cruise with Viennese Songs and Buffet

⭐️  RATING:  4.1/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3 hours | ✅  Book it!

This Vienna boat tour down the Danube River is an opportunity to enjoy live music with an Austrian dinner.

During the cruise, you circle Vienna’s 2nd district which offers scenic views of the illuminated skyline. You get to see landmarks like the Danube Tower, the Danube Plate, and the DC Tower.

Plus, you can also see historic buildings such as the Anniversary Church, the Ringturm and the Rossauer Barracks.

The performance is all Viennese Heuriger music. If you’re wondering what that is, you’re not alone! Heuriger refers to a wine tavern, so these are traditional songs played mainly on guitars and accordions which add to the merriment of the place.

Dinner is served buffet style featuring classic Viennese dishes.

• Get to listen to traditional wine tavern music
• Scenic views of Vienna
• Buffet dinner featuring Austrian cuisine

4. Floating Dinner Vienna: Private Dining Experience on Danube

⭐️  RATING:  NEW! | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  1 hour | ✅  Book it!

If you’re looking for the most unusual Vienna boat ride, this one here might be it!

This is a very unique setup where you get your own e-boat Island. Picture something like a round floating deck complete with comfortable patio furniture and a palm tree.

Dinner is served before the cruise and includes a main course meal, either Viennese Schnitzel or a vegetarian option, and one bottle of red or white wine.

You then begin your e-boat sail down the Danube River, but it’s not as tricky as it sounds. The e-boats are extremely easy to drive using a joystick control.

If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind boat cruise in Vienna, this one fits the bill.

• Unique boat experience
• Get your own private e-boat island
• Viennese Schnitzel and wine for dinner

5. Vienna: Sunset Barbecue Cruise with Fireworks Display

⭐️  RATING:  4.3/5 Stars | ⏳  TOUR LENGTH:  3.5 hours | ✅  Book it!

This Vienna boat cruise takes place aboard the MS Kaiserin Elisabeth.

During the tour, you’ll get to enjoy the Danube River from a unique perspective as well as iconic landmarks like the Donauplatte, the Danube Tower, and the Millennium Tower.

This cruise also features live Heuriger music which creates a very lively environment with the musicians encouraging participation from the public.

Dinner is BBQ served buffet style and the grand finale is a beautiful fireworks display to end off the evening.

• BBQ dinner buffet
• Live Austrian wine tavern music
• Fireworks display while cruising the Danube River

Choosing a Vienna boat tour

So what’s the best Vienna boat tour, you ask?

As you’ve seen, there are all sorts of different options: you can enjoy a river cruise on the Danube River with dinner and live music, a scenic cruise through the Wachau Valley wine region, a private tour on your own e-boat island, or a boat tour coming back from Bratislava to Vienna.

You have lots of choices and hopefully, this blog post has helped you narrow it down to the right one for you!

Read More about Austria:

• 10 Delectable Vienna Food Tours
• 10 Vienna Restaurants to Visit
• 5 Best Vienna Bike Tours
• Where to Eat in Salzburg
• Must-Try Tyrolean Dishes
• Sachertorte: Vienna’s Famous Dessert

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Cruise Maven

Cruising the World One Port at a Time

Best Things to Do in Vienna on a Danube River Cruise

By: Sherry Laskin · Updated On: October 1, 2022

When your Danube river cruise only gives you one day in Vienna, Austria, you have eight hours to find the best things to do, and of course, somewhere to eat.

With only one day in Vienna, here are highlights to see.

Planning a  Danube river cruise  ? If it begins or ends in Vienna, definitely add a couple of overnights to experience this expansive, bustling city. But, if you only have one day in Vienna, here are my suggestions to experience as much as possible. This city is truly a magnificent jewel in the crown of European capital cities.

If your river cruise ship does not dock near the city center, they will usually provide a back and forth shuttle service. Sometimes it’s complimentary, depending upon the river cruise company. Your other option is to simply have Reception order a taxi to take you into town.

Even if your river ship is docked near the main area, it’s still a fairly long walk (3-4 miles) to the main area. Especially when you’ll be doing more walking once you get into the heart of Vienna.

Graben pedestrian zone.

Shop til you drop. Walk til you can’t walk anymore. Within only a few blocks of this vehicle-free zone, you’ll find many of Vienna’s notable or historic landmarks. Stroll up and down the smaller side streets for some wonderful little cafes and boutiques. .

Schönbrunn Palace

How to get there: By taxi or public transportation, it’s easy to find but far to walk whether or not you are going independently from your river cruise ship or staying overnight. Sometimes a taxi is your best option. You can also get to Schonbrunn Palace on the follow public transport:

Underground: U4, Schönbrunn station Trams: 10 and 58, Schönbrunn station Bus: 10A, Schönbrunn station

Dating from the middle ages as a monastery, magnificent Schönbrunn Palace   was the home to the imperial Habsburg family who really gave it the royal once-over. With the addition of palatial buildings and furnishings that began in the 1600’s, it was converted into a summer palace by Empress Elizabeth in the 1800’s,  Schönbrunn Palace stayed in the family until Emperor Franz Joseph died in 1916. Two years later the palace and other royal buildings were expropriated by the Austrian government.

The grounds are beautifully kept, including the immense and uber-fragrant Rose Garden. Pay a few euro and take the guided tour.

Once you’ve toured this spectacular palace, retrace your steps back to the center of the action inside the city.

Spanish Riding School

We’ve all heard of the world famous “dancing” Lipizzaner horses…well this is where they reside. Walk over to Michaelerplatz, past the below-ground Roman ruins and enter through the archway. For twelve euro admission, on Tuesdays through Saturdays, you can watch these elegant, muscle-bound horses and their stoic trainers practice their routines in daily workouts.

The program begins at 10am; the same time that the tour buses are unloading and people are packing into the arena. By 11:30 most of the tour groups have suddenly vanished, seating closer to the ground level is available and the horses have already warmed up and moving in spectacular form. If you’re in the city for a couple of days, I’d suggest that you purchase your ticket the day before you intend to go and arrive just before 11am. An hour of watching the musical workout is enough time to soak in the ambiance and appreciate this traditional performance.

Horse lover? If you’re quick and the timing is right, exit the arena and cross the street to the Stallburg building. The “wranglers” walk the horses back to their stalls from the arena after their workout. You can almost reach out and touch one of these magnificent animals.

St. Stephen’s Cathedral

You don’t have to be religious to be in awe of this red marble sepulchral which took nearly fifty years to build. Starting in 1359, the cornerstone was set in place by the ruling Habsburg (who else?) Duke Rudolph IV. Without a doubt, St. Stephen’s Cathedral is Austria’s most notable Gothic structure with a Romanesque style interior. Housed within and toured only with a guide, are hundred of important art treasures. If you need some exercise, climb the 343 stairs to the tower-keepers room. Check first though, as the cathedral in undergoing extensive exterior renovation.

The Natural History Museum

Opened 1889, it was named the Imperial Natural History Museum and housed the Hapsburg’s immense collection of just about everything you can imagine, from gemstones to taxidermy to butterflies. Today the collection of over 25 million artifacts includes such irreplaceable items such at the 25,000 year old tiny statue of a woman, named Venus of Willendorf (found in the Wachau Valley) and a skeleton of the diplodocus dinosaur.

The Natural History Museum is one of the top 10 museums in the world. Open: Thursday – Monday 9am -6:30pm, Wednesday 9am – 9pm, closed Tuesday.

Taste the local cuisine.

While wandering around the central Graben area, be sure to sample the tidbits that are associated with Vienna; wiener schnitzel and sachertorte. While traditional wiener schnitzel is a piece of breaded and fried veal or pork cutlet, you may order it made with chicken instead. If you’ve been wandering around the Graben streets and get hungry, I’d recommend Restaurant Levante and Il Tempo Bistro, both on Wallenstrasse. Nothing fancy, a bit crowded at lunchtime with mostly locals, they both offer light and standard lunch fare at reasonable prices.

Sachertorte is probably the most famous of  the Viennese culinary specialties. A chocolate cake created in 1882 by Franz Sacher and was later perfected by Franz’s son, Eduard at the Demel bakery. Soon the nearby Hotel Sacher also served the Sachertorte.

The battle for claim to use the phrase, ” Original Sachertorte”  was finally settled in 1963 and now only the Hotel Sacher can claim title to the “Original Sachertorte.” Demel’s lays claim to a signature chocolate mark bearing the name of the Eduard Sacher, the inventor’s son who brought the cake to internation attention.

Take a spin on the Riesenrad ferris wheel.

Not for the weak at heart, this revolving attraction is located just outside of the city center and really not a convenient walking distance from the Graben zone. The ferris wheel is part of the Prater amusement area with beautiful walking paths, lagoons and picnic tables. Originally built in 1897 to celebrate the 50th anniversary of the reign of Empereror Franz Joseph I, it was burned to the ground in WWII and rebuilt shortly thereafter. It is the oldest ferris wheel of its kind still in use today. If you try it, you are in for some of the most beautiful views of Vienna.

Rent a car or hop a train and head to Salzburg , Regensburg or Miltenberg.

Day-tripping from Vienna sends you to wonderful medieval towns, castles from the middle ages and alpine vistas with snow-capped peaks. Grab a train schedule or rent a car for a day, pick a direction and just go.

All river ships that ply the Danube stop in Vienna. Some have longer stays than others. If your river cruise visits for the day take advantage of their complimentary shore excursion in the morning and go out on your own in the afternoon.

Choose a Danube river cruise that includes Vienna and you’re in store for a fabulous experience in the Imperial City.

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About Sherry Laskin

I'm the editor and creator of CruiseMaven.com, a solo traveler cruising the world without flying. I hope my articles and photos entertain, advise and inspire you to travel the world without flying. Take a breath...stop for a local meal and a glass of wine along the way.

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October 14, 2018 at 7:20 pm

Thanks, Branson. Yes I’d love to visit some of the alpine towns and villages of Austria. There just never seems to be enough time! I will look into staying in those two locales that you mention…it could end up being material for very interesting articles. Thank you for you suggestion.

August 20, 2018 at 11:14 am

Great article Sherry! thanks for sharing this 🙂

Vienna is an incredible city and one of the reasons I fell in love with Austria in the first place.

The distinctive architecture is absolutely breathtaking.

Have you ever considered visiting alpine locations such as St. Anton or Seefeld?

March 25, 2018 at 9:31 pm

Hi Douglas, Dockage in major cities may be determined as late as 2-3 weeks before arrival. However, Viking will let you know as soon as it is confirmed. You can log on to MyVikingJourney.com (you probably already have) and go to My Journey Details > Voyage Documents. If the docking space has been decided you’ll be able to scroll down in the online booklet and see the docking information printed. You or your travel agent can also call their reservations department and ask them about the docking. If you go to Google Earth, sometimes you can get an aerial view of the river ships along the bank.

Generally, docking in Vienna isn’t within a short walking distance to the city center and shuttle service will be provided. But maybe your ship will have a prime location. Have a memorable vacation!

March 25, 2018 at 1:27 pm

do you know where the Viking cruise ship from Budapest to Amsterdam will dock in Vienna??? June 3

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River cruises on the Danube

A journey on the most beautiful river in europe.

The Danube is probably the most unique and interesting river in Europe. With a length of almost 2,900 kilometers, the river runs from the Black Forest to the Black Sea and crosses ten countries on its journey. Accordingly, there is a lot to see and experience on a river cruise on the Danube. With Vienna and Budapest, two of Europe's most beautiful and important cities lie on the banks of the Danube, their magnificent buildings bearing witness to their centuries-old history. But travelers should also have seen historic cities such as Regensburg, Passau, Linz and Bratislava.

A Danube cruise, however, is not only a journey through the history and architecture of Europe, but above all a foray through some of the most beautiful natural landscapes of our continent. The lovely, hilly landscape of the Wachau with its numerous vineyards, the wild and romantic mountain range of the Carpathians and the gentle estuary of the river at the Black Sea are only three of the scenic highlights on the long way of the river.

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Description and info of river cruises on the Danube

With VIVA Cruises' Danube river cruises, you are spoiled for choice when it comes to routes and duration. Whether you want to take a short 4-day vacation, a Rhine-Main-Danube river cruise or a river trip to the estuary, you will find the right trip for you at VIVA Cruises.

Splendidly awaiting you on this trip are the Danube metropolises of Vienna, Bratislava and Budapest, which will captivate you with their magnificent buildings. Medieval castles, fairytale palaces and imposing aristocratic palaces grace your path between the vine-covered Wachau and the majestic Melk Abbey. With such a journey, you will hardly be able to stop marveling. Click here to get to the voyage: Enchanting Danube | River Cruise | VIVA TWO | VIVA Cruises (viva-cruises.com)

This Main-Danube trip takes you from the Main River to the highest waterway in Europe: the Main-Danube Canal. This waterway, 175 km long in total, connects the Main River near Bamberg via the Altmühl River near Dietfurt with the Danube River near Kelheim. With only 16 locks, which are among the largest and most modern structures of their kind, the canal overcomes a total height difference of 234 meters.

But also culturally there is much to discover: whether in Miltenberg the Schnatterloch, one of the most beautiful marketplaces in Germany, the numerous rococo and baroque buildings in Würzburg, the Old Town Hall in Bamberg, decorated with facade paintings, the medieval old town in Nuremberg or the Liberation Hall in Kelheim - look forward to many cultural highlights, unique river landscapes - and on board a feel-good program for body and soul. Click here to get to the voyage: From Danube to Main | River Cruise | VIVA TIARA | VIVA Cruises (viva-cruises.com)

Drift down the Danube in a gentle zigzag and enjoy the extraordinary views of the narrow gorges and picturesque bays. Hungary's Puszta, Serbia's Carpathians and the Iron Gate will enchant you. Immerse yourself in the history of the Danube metropolises and be swept away by the castles and fortresses of Bratislava and Belgrade. Stroll through the wide avenues of the Paris of the East and end your trip with a piece of cake at Café Sacher. Click here to get to the voyage: Danube Cataracts | River Cruise | VIVA TWO | VIVA Cruises (viva-cruises.com)

Glide through the eras of the Danube and admire the legacies of the former monarchies. In the magnificent capitals of Bratislava, Budapest and Vienna, you can visit ancient coronation sites, storm castle palaces and waltz through cafés. Marvel at the breathtakingly beautiful landscapes of the Wachau and be enchanted by lovely Linz. Click here to get to the voyage: Danube's Great Cities | River Cruise | VIVA TWO | VIVA Cruises (viva-cruises.com)

Untouched wilderness full of biodiversity as far as the eye can see! Be fascinated by natural spectacles and the immense variety of birds and plants of the Danube Delta. Join us on a nature-filled journey where, in addition to flora and fauna, history also outgrows itself - in Budapest, Belgrade and Vienna as well as in ancient fortresses, principalities and kingdoms. Click here to get to the voyage: Danube Delta Nature Experience | River Cruise | VIVA TWO | VIVA Cruises (viva-cruises.com)

A river cruise on a VIVA Cruises ship is suitable for almost every group of people: whether young or old, city or country fan, architecture or nature lover - the Danube has something to offer for every taste. No other river in Europe offers travelers such a diverse mix of history, architecture, nature, culinary delights and sport. Get to know the Danube on a leisurely city tour, a hike up a nearby hill or a bike tour along the river.

The special feature of an all-inclusive river cruise with VIVA Cruises: from full board with breakfast, lunch and dinner to snacks in between and high-quality alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, everything is included in the price of our cruises. Even the mini-bar in the cabins is refilled daily.

VIVA All-Inclusive: only the best for you

With VIVA Cruises, "all-inclusive" means you can sit back, relax and enjoy. Your physical well-being is taken care of with selected food and drinks. In addition, we offer you relaxing care products. And if you do need a good connection, use our WLAN. For other good connections - especially to our on-board staff - the included tip provides.

A warm welcome with a welcome champagne - to a wonderful stay on board

Full board with breakfast buffet, lunch, dinner (multi-course gourmet gourmet menus, served at the table) and snacks with free choice of table and flexible dining meal times

All day high quality, cold and hotnon-alcoholic beverages and a exquisite selection of alcoholic beverages; take a look at our bar menu.

High Tea: once per trip a selection of sweet and savory treats such as scones such as scones, sandwiches, cupcakes cupcakes, chocolates and macarons. In addition various teas are offered to match are offered.

Daily freshly filled mini-bar and reusable water bottle in the cabin

Selected beauty products from RITUALS

Free WLAN on board - for undisturbed reception

Tips for the entire crew

The right excursions for your river cruise

The guests on board our floating premium hotels are all different. That's why we devise an equally diverse excursion program for each of our fascinating itineraries. Whether you are a gourmet, a nature lover or an art enthusiast, our selection of experiences will open up new perspectives for you on every voyage.

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With VIVA Cruises you enjoy the feeling of being in the best hands from the very beginning. That's why our service is not limited to life on board, but begins with the preparation of your trip.

You need a parking space for your vehicle, plan a comfortable arrival and departure by train or would like assistance for a suitable flight?

Upon request, we will gladly take care of your stress-free arrival and departure as well as transfers. Call us: +49 211 274 032 50 or write us an e-mail : [email protected]

Our berth in Passau is either in Lindau or Passau Old Town, rarely also in Passau Racklau. You will receive further information with your travel documents.

If you travel to Passau with your own car, we recommend booking a space in the Globus parking garage there. Our partner Globus will take you with your luggage directly from the parking garage to the ship on the day of arrival and will conveniently pick you up from the ship on the last day of your trip. You will receive further information about the parking facilities and the voucher with your travel documents. Payment will be made directly on site.

Book your parking space now here: globus-group.de/booking

We are happy to book a transfer for you from the train station to the ship and back. This is available from us for 20 € per person, including luggage transport in the bus. Please contact us for a booking by mail or phone.

Our berth in Vienna is usually located on the Donauraum Vienna , close to the Reichsbrücke. You will receive further information with your travel documents two weeks before the start of your trip.  If you are traveling to Vienna in your own car, here is our recommendation for a nearby parking garage: P+R Reichsbrücke Handelskai 255 Leopoldstadt 1020 Vienna 

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See inside a new ultra-luxury river cruise line that's charging up to $59,520 per person

• Newcomer Riverside Luxury Cruises wants to break into the growing river cruise market.
• The ultra-luxury cruise line  operates former Crystal ships in popular European rivers like the Danube.
• Riverside's 2024 cruises start at $1,055 per person for four days.

A new ultra-luxury cruise line wants to be the swankiest travel-by-river vacation option.

To do so, it's enticing cruisers with truffle-infused butter, $320-per-person dinners, and butlers that can be beckoned with a simple WhatsApp message.

Affluent travelers , meet Riverside Luxury Cruises.

The budding company first set sail in March 2023. With a year of service under its belt, its three ships are now sailing some of Europe's most popular rivers — starting at more than $260 per person per day.

Riverside is operated by Seaside Collection, a European hotelier.

The firm had its sights set on a river cruise venture since 2018, Jen Halboth, CEO of Riverside Luxury Cruises, told Business Insider.

Ironically, COVID-19 was the reason it got into the business.

Crystal Cruises declared bankruptcy in early 2022 amid the pandemic. Shortly after, Seaside purchased and updated five of the then-defunct cruise line's ships.

Three of these vessels now make up Riverside's fleet. The other two are being leased to competitor Uniworld River Cruises.

River cruising has become increasingly popular as wealthy travelers gravitate to ultra-luxury small-ship vacations.

River cruise ships are much smaller than their behemoth ocean-based counterparts, allowing Riverside to sail in waterways like Europe's Rhine, Rhone, Danube, Main, Moselle, and Saône rivers.

Along the way, guests can explore destinations many giant ships can't easily access — like Budapest, Hungary; Frankfurt, Germany; and Amsterdam — sometimes visiting more than one port in a day.

One of Riverside's shortest and cheapest 2024 voyages starts at $1,055 per person for a four-day Danube River cruise from Passau, Germany, to Vienna.

Alcohol and excursion packages can tack on an extra $75 to $175 per person per night.

Looking to ball out? The most expensive and longest itinerary is $59,521 per person for a three-river, 22-day cruise from Amsterdam to Budapest, Hungary, in the most expensive suite with the most inclusive package.

To compare, the cheapest 2024 voyage with all-inclusive luxury competitor Uniworld River Cruises starts at $2,000 per person for an eight-day Danube River sailing.

River cruisers tend to be over the age of 55.

But the new company is targeting guests 45 years old and older, specifically those who frequent luxury vacations but have yet to try a river cruise.

"New luxury travelers want to be pampered, get off and have an adventure, and come back and be taken care of," the cruise line's CEO said.

"Pampering” they will get.

Of Riverside's three ships, the 394-foot-long, 74-foot-wide Mozart can accommodate the most guests — up to 162, not including the 82 crew.

Yes, it's larger than Uniworld's ships, which range from 32 to 159 guests. But it's also significantly smaller than Royal Caribbean's new 9,950-person Icon of the Seas ocean vessel.

Like most cruise liners, Riverside's three ships have spas, buffets, and plush lounges and bars.

During the day, travelers can enjoy lunch at the open-air grill and relax to live music courtesy of Steinway and Bösendorfer pianos, no less.

At night, they can dine on a seven-course meal at the 295 euros ($320) per-person Vintage Room.

Riverside’s ships have up to 5 restaurants. Vintage Room is the only specialty option.

The cost to dine includes a wine pairing and plates like veal with truffle and chanterelle mushrooms and "surf and turf" with beef sirloin and scallops.

But don't expect a lackluster, rushed meal at the other complimentary options: "This is not a churn-and-burn," the company's CEO said of the ships' Waterside restaurants. "You come in for fine dining."

Infused, whipped butter is apparently one of Riverside's hottest commodities.

Sometimes, it has chiles. Other times, it's infused with citrus. If you're lucky, you'll get one with truffles.

"People were raving about our butter," Halboth said. "Everyone's waiting to see what butter they'll get at dinner each night."

Need to sleep off all that dairy? You're in luck. Every cabin has a king bed.

Riverside's suites range from 194 to 883 square-feet. These high-end cabins include butler service, stocked mini-bars, and espresso machines.

Some suites also have double-sink vanities and walk-in closets, a hallmark of an ultra-luxury cruise vessel .

Does Riverside’s more than $260 per person, per day fare seem reasonable now?

If yes, book soon. It'll only get more expensive from here.

These fares don't offset the amount Riverside is spending on amenities like the upscale food, according to Halboth. To make up for these expenditures, the cruise line plans to raise its prices gradually over the next two years.

The company's CEO said bookings have been 'a little lighter' since the start of 2024.

But the back half of the year is "filling up" thanks to Americans: About 70 to 80% of its guests are from North America, the company said.

Riverside will operate its Mozart, Ravel, and Debussy ships for three years as it 'hones the brand,' Halboth said.

The cruise line's two additional vessels would join its fleet in the next few years.

Given the growing popularity of river cruises , it's a good time for companies like Riverside to start expanding.

However, it could face plenty of incoming competition.

Jamie Loizou, the UK managing director of luxury river cruise line AmaWaterways, is forecasting 2024 as a "pivotal" year for the river cruise industry, noting that 15 new river-based vessels are expected to launch this year, Cruise Critic reported .

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River Cruise Guide for Seniors Along the Danube and Rhine

W elcome to our guide on river cruising, specially designed for seniors who love to travel! River cruises are a great way for seniors to see beautiful places comfortably and easily. They are perfect if you don’t like the trouble of packing and unpacking a lot. In this guide, we talk about two famous European rivers: the Danube and the Rhine. These cruises for seniors will show you lovely views and old cities and make sure you’re comfortable the whole time. Whether you travel a lot or this is your first cruise, this guide will show you why river cruises are great for seniors. Sit back, relax, and join us as we explore why a Danube and Rhine river cruise is a wonderful choice for seniors.

Why Choose a River Cruise for Seniors?

For seniors looking for a memorable travel experience, river cruises are an excellent choice. Unlike ocean cruises, river cruises offer a more intimate and relaxed journey. They typically host fewer passengers, which means more personal attention and less crowding. This is especially appealing to seniors who value comfort and a peaceful environment.

One of the biggest advantages of a river cruise is the scenic and gentle nature of the journey. These cruises glide along historic waterways, offering stunning views of landscapes, quaint villages, and iconic cities. The slower pace of river cruising is perfect for seniors who want to enjoy their travel without feeling rushed. It’s an effortless way to see multiple destinations while enjoying the luxury of staying in one place.

Moreover, river cruises are known for their accessibility. The smaller size of river ships means easier navigation for seniors, with fewer stairs and more convenient access to all areas of the vessel. This accessibility extends to shore excursions as well, which are often tailored to be senior-friendly.

Finally, river cruises provide an enriching cultural experience. From onboard lectures about local history and culture to excursions that take you into the heart of each destination, these cruises offer a deeper understanding and appreciation of the places visited. It’s not just a journey; it’s an immersive cultural experience, making it an ideal choice for seniors eager to explore and learn.

River cruises offer seniors a comfortable, scenic, and culturally rich travel experience perfectly suited to their pace and interests.

Exploring the Danube River

The Danube River, Europe’s second-longest river, is a treasure trove of experiences for senior travelers. Flowing through ten countries, it offers a unique blend of natural beauty, historical richness, and cultural diversity. A cruise along the Danube is not just a journey through a scenic waterway; it’s a passage through centuries of history and culture.

For seniors embarking on a Danube River cruise, the experience begins with the breathtaking landscapes. The river meanders through rolling hills, vineyards, and dramatic cliffs, offering ever-changing vistas that are easily enjoyed from the comfort of the ship. This serene setting is perfect for those who wish to relax and soak in the natural beauty of a tranquil environment.

As the cruise progresses, a series of enchanting cities and towns unfold along the banks.

Vienna , the city of music, enchants with its imperial architecture and classical concerts – a treat for seniors who appreciate the finer arts.

In Budapest , the stunning Hungarian capital split by the river, you can witness the majestic Parliament building, especially captivating when lit up at night. Bratislava, with its charming old town and laid-back atmosphere, offers a quieter but equally rewarding experience.

For history enthusiasts, the Danube River cruise is a journey back in time. Visit ancient fortresses like Devin Castle near Bratislava, or explore the Roman ruins in Viminacium, near Belgrade. Each site tells a story that enriches the travel experience.

The Danube also presents a culinary journey. Seniors can indulge in local flavors, tasting dishes that have been perfected over generations. From the hearty goulash of Hungary to Austria’s famous pastries, each region offers its own culinary delights. Additionally, wine lovers will appreciate the fine wines produced in the Wachau Valley, renowned for its vineyards.

Each stop along the Danube offers leisurely-paced excursions, ensuring senior travelers can explore comfortably at their own pace. These excursions often include guided tours with knowledgeable guides who provide insights into the local history and culture, making the experience both enjoyable and educational.

The Danube River cruise for seniors is a splendid blend of natural beauty, historical exploration, and cultural immersion. It’s a journey that satisfies the soul and sparks the imagination, leaving travelers with memories to cherish for a lifetime.

Exploring the Rhine River

A cruise along the Rhine River is a journey through the heart of Europe, offering senior travelers an enchanting mix of fairy-tale landscapes, medieval castles, and vibrant cultural centers. Stretching from the Swiss Alps to the North Sea, the Rhine passes through a variety of stunning landscapes and historic cities, making it a prime destination for a leisurely and enriching cruise experience.

As seniors embark on a Rhine River cruise, they are greeted by the picturesque beauty of the river’s banks. The Upper Middle Rhine Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is particularly breathtaking with its steep vineyards, quaint villages, and numerous castles perched on hillsides. This section, often referred to as the Romantic Rhine truly captures the essence of a storybook in Europe.

The cities along the Rhine are equally captivating. Cologne, with its iconic twin-spired cathedral, is a must-visit for its rich history and vibrant atmosphere. Strasbourg, in the Alsace region, is enchanted with its blend of French and German cultures, showcased in its architecture, cuisine, and unique Alsatian wines. Basel, known for its art and culture, offers a more laid-back experience, ideal for seniors who appreciate the quieter side of city life.

Historical exploration is a significant aspect of the Rhine cruise. The region is dotted with castles and fortresses that date back to the Middle Ages, like the imposing Marksburg Castle and the ruins of Heidelberg Castle. These sites provide a window into the past and are often accompanied by fascinating stories and legends.

The Rhine also offers a culinary journey that appeals to senior travelers. From the hearty German cuisine and world-class Rieslings to the delicate flavors of Alsace, each region along the river offers its own gastronomic delights. Many cruises include onboard tastings and themed dinners, providing a taste of local flavors in a comfortable setting.

Moreover, the pace of a Rhine cruise is particularly suitable for seniors. With options for leisurely strolls in port towns and relaxed sightseeing tours, travelers can explore at a comfortable pace. The accessibility of these tours ensures that the beauty and culture of the Rhine are easily enjoyed by all.

In summary, a Rhine River cruise presents a wonderful combination of scenic beauty, historical exploration, and cultural immersion. It’s an ideal choice for senior travelers seeking a relaxing yet enriching European adventure.

8 Must-Haves for Your River Cruise

Embarking on a river cruise, especially for seniors, calls for thoughtful preparation to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable journey. Here are some must-haves that you should consider packing for your Danube or Rhine river cruise:

• Comfortable Footwear: As you’ll likely be exploring a lot during port stops, comfortable walking shoes are essential. Opt for sturdy, non-slip shoes that can handle cobblestone streets and uneven surfaces.
• Layered Clothing: Weather can be unpredictable, especially when cruising along European rivers. Pack lightweight, layered clothing that can easily be added or removed. Include a waterproof jacket for unexpected rain showers.
• Binoculars : To fully appreciate the scenic vistas along the rivers, a pair of binoculars is a great accessory. They’re perfect for viewing architectural details of distant castles or spotting wildlife along the riverbanks.
• Medications and Health Supplies: Apart from your prescription medications, bring along basic health supplies like pain relievers, band-aids, and any daily vitamins. Also, consider seasickness remedies if you’re prone to motion sickness, though river cruises are generally very smooth.
• Portable Power Bank: A power bank is handy for long days out when you might need to charge your phone or camera.
• Travel Documents and Currency: Keep your passport, travel insurance information, and any necessary visas easily accessible. Also, carry some local currency for small purchases ashore, as some smaller shops may not accept credit cards.
• Sun Protection: Sunglasses, sunhat, and sunscreen are crucial, especially during the summer months, to protect against the sun’s rays while you’re enjoying the deck or on excursions.
• Camera : Don’t forget your camera or smartphone to capture memorable landscapes and historic sights.

Packing these essentials will help ensure that your river cruise experience is as comfortable and enjoyable as possible, letting you focus on the beauty and culture of the Danube and Rhine rivers.

Choosing the Right Cruise for Seniors

Selecting the right river cruise is key to ensuring a fulfilling and comfortable experience, especially for senior travelers. When considering a cruise along the Danube or Rhine, there are several factors to keep in mind:

Cruise Line and Ship Size:

Different cruise lines cater to varying preferences and styles. Some offer a more luxurious experience, while others focus on cultural immersion. Smaller ships often provide a more intimate and personalized experience, which can be ideal for seniors seeking a relaxed pace and easy accessibility.

Cabin Comfort and Accessibility:

AmaViola Suite

Consider the layout and facilities of the cabins. For seniors, it’s important to choose a cabin that is easily accessible, preferably without many stairs. Some ships offer cabins specifically designed for seniors or those with mobility issues, featuring wider doorways and walk-in showers.

Itinerary and Duration:

Look at the itinerary closely. Some cruises might be more port-intensive, with daily stops and excursions, while others offer more days at sea for relaxation. Depending on your stamina and interest, choose an itinerary that balances sightseeing with downtime. Duration is also a key consideration – shorter cruises might be a better fit for those who tire easily.

Pace of Activities:

Check the type and pace of activities offered. Many river cruises offer a range of excursion options, from leisurely walking tours to more active adventures. Ensure that there are activities suited to your comfort level and interests.

Medical Facilities and Services:

Confirm the availability of medical services onboard. While river cruises are generally safe, having medical support readily available provides peace of mind, especially for those with health concerns.

Dining Options:

AmaWaterways River Cruise food

Consider the dining arrangements. Look for cruises that offer flexible dining times and a variety of meal options, catering to different dietary needs and preferences.

Reviews and Recommendations:

Finally, read reviews and seek recommendations from other senior travelers. Personal experiences can provide valuable insights into what to expect and help you make an informed decision.

Senior travelers can choose a river cruise that not only meets their needs but also provides an enriching and enjoyable experience along the Danube and Rhine rivers considering these factors.

Making the Most of Your River Cruise Experience

To truly enjoy your Danube or Rhine river cruise, embrace every moment. Engage with fellow travelers and share stories; these interactions often enhance the travel experience. Participate in onboard activities and attend educational talks to deepen your understanding of the regions you’re visiting.

Don’t hesitate to spend some quiet time on the deck, soaking in the scenic landscapes and peaceful ambiance of the river. Remember, the beauty of a river cruise lies not just in the destinations but in the journey itself. So, relax, stay present, and savor the unique experiences your river cruise offers.

A river cruise along the Danube or Rhine offers seniors a wonderful blend of comfort, adventure, and cultural enrichment. It’s a chance to explore Europe’s heart in a way that’s both relaxing and engaging. So, embark on this journey and create memories that will last a lifetime. Book a river cruise . 

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Bulgarian Cruise Ship Crashes Into Wall on Danube in Austria, Injuring 11

VIENNA (Reuters) - Eleven people were injured when a Bulgarian cruise ship crashed into a concrete wall in a sluice on the River Danube in the northern Austrian town of Aschach an der Donau overnight, local police said on Saturday.

Some 160 passengers were aboard the ship traveling from Bavaria in Germany to the Austrian city of Linz, a spokesperson for police in the nearby town of Eferding said.

The 11 injured were taken to hospital and the ship was able to continue onwards after the accident, the spokesperson said.

It was not immediately clear how serious the injuries were, the spokesperson said.

Local media said another six people suffered lesser injuries that did not require hospital treatment.

Photos You Should See

(Writing by Dave Graham; Editing by Frances Kerry)

Copyright 2024 Thomson Reuters .

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Tags: Bulgaria , Europe , Germany , Austria

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Danube River Cruises

Glide along the gentle waters of the Danube, the heart and soul of Central Europe. These legendary waters flow through 10 countries, coursing through Germany, Austria and Hungary to the Black Sea. Our Danube River cruises deliver you to culture-rich banks, from scenic vineyards to spectacular monasteries and elegant cities that have inspired composers and writers for centuries. Find your inspiration on one of the Danube cruises below.

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Highlights of the danube river.

A Danube River cruise unveils Europe’s rich and dramatic history. Glittering cultural capitals, lush vineyards, magnificent monasteries and endless scenic splendor line the river’s banks. Here are some sample highlights you will see with Viking:

• Enchanting Passau, set where three rivers meet
• Lush vineyards of the Wachau Valley
• The baroque splendor of Melk Abbey
• Vienna’s elegant architecture
• The splendid Benedictine Abbey of Göttweig
• Scenic beauty of the picturesque Danube Bend
• Budapest’s stunning Chain Bridge and Parliament Building
• Soaring cliffs of the scenic Iron Gate
• Romania’s rural culture and rich folklore
• Belgrade’s impressive Kalemegdan Fortress

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