Danube in Depth from Budapest

Your journey begins in the vibrant city of Budapest, the capital of Hungary and one of Europe’s oldest and prettiest cities.   

This afternoon, board your all-inclusive luxury Scenic Space-Ship and settle into your suite. Balcony Suites have windows that convert into a Scenic Sun Lounge, allowing you fresh air and uninterrupted views of ever-changing landscapes and life along the riverbanks. Relax and raise a glass to the days ahead at this evening’s welcome reception. You will remain docked in Budapest overnight, so you can also set out to explore the city’s famed nightlife if you wish (D)

Divided by the Danube, with Buda on one side and Pest on the other, this city became united in 1873 when a newly built bridge connected the two. It’s an architectural treasure trove comprising styles from Gothic to Art Nouveau and everything in between. It is also well known for its hot springs and thermal baths (B,L,D)

Wake up to a rolling tapestry of river life along the Danube as we cruise towards the Slovakian border. Perhaps ask your butler to bring coffee this morning to enjoy in your Scenic Sun Lounge. 

Slovakia’s capital since independence in 1993, Bratislava is a modern multicultural metropolis with an intriguing history. Its Old Town is glorious with Medieval and Gothic architecture. Its well-preserved hilltop castle, which dates back to the ninth century, still dominates the town. These charming historic sites contrast with its brutalist socialist architecture, which is evident around the city.

The rest of the day is at leisure to wander the city of Bratislava on your own. Alternatively, stay on board your Scenic Space-Ship and relax in the Panorama Lounge and Bar where you can sip on regional beer and wine while enjoying views of the city before we depart later tonight (B,L,D)

FREECHOICE: Coffee & cake at Kormuth Bakerai

Welcome to Vienna, the capital of Austria and a centre of art, music and culture. The city fostered the musical geniuses Mozart and Beethoven, and oozes charm with magnificent Baroque buildings, ample green spaces, a vibrant coffee-house scene, and masterpiece-filled galleries and museums.

Enjoy some free time this afternoon to explore Vienna on your own or relax on board your luxurious Space-Ship (B,L,D)

FREECHOICE: Schönbrunn Palace

This morning, arrive in the charming town of Krems, located in the spectacular Wachau Valley.

Later, arrive in Dürnstein, a small and picturesque town in the Wachau Valley. Enjoy some free time to explore this World Heritage-listed town, perched on the edge of the Danube River and. surrounded by ancient terraced vineyards. 

On board this evening, join an informative talk on the production of schnapps and taste some local varieties (B,L,D)

FREECHOICE: Göttweig Abbey

Today your Space-Ship will dock in the heart of Linz. This city is known for its vibrant music and arts scene and beautiful blend of traditional and contemporary architecture and lifestyle. The city’s quaint old town and Main Square are resplendent in Baroque architecture, while its harbour doubles as an outdoor street art gallery. 

This afternoon and evening are at leisure. If you’re feeling adventurous, lace up your walking shoes to hike to Postlingberg Church, perched high above the city or perhaps explore the city’s local nightlife with many galleries and museums open after dark or wander and appreciate the glistening skyline (B,L,D)

FREECHOICE: Explore Linz by foot

Set on the confluence of the Danube, Inn and Ilz rivers, Passau has been an important trading city since Medieval times, particularly for salt, commonly known as ‘white gold’. Each river is distinct in colour and some days you can clearly see the green, blue and black hues where the waters meet. At the centre of the Baroque city, the 13th century Italianate Old Town is packed with tight laneways tunnels and archways, including an ‘Artist’s mile’ where old buildings are occupied by artist studios, workshops and galleries (B,L,D)

FREECHOICE: Highlights of Passau

You will arrive in Regensburg after lunch today. Boasting a staggering 2,000-year history, Regensburg has one of Germany’s best preserved Medieval town centres, with more than 900 of its Romanesque and Gothic buildings listed as World Heritage sites.  Within its narrow laneways, the city lays claim to having the highest concentration of bars in the country (B,L,D)

FREECHOICE: Walking tour of Regensburg

Arrive in Nuremberg today. The city is dominated by one of the most significant imperial forts of the Holy Roman Empire, the 12th century Imperial Castle, which was the preferred residence of German kings. 

Behind its charming façade, Nuremberg also has a turbulent history. During WWII, the city was favoured by the Nazis for party rallies and many of the anti-Jewish laws began here. By 1945, the city was reduced to rubble, including large sections of the Imperial Castle and Old Town. After the war, Nazi leaders were tried here for the atrocities that took place (B,L,D)

FREECHOICE: Guided tour of Nuremberg Old Town

Your journey concludes this morning. After a hearty breakfast, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your onward travels or homebound flight, taking a lifetime of wonderful memories with you (B)