river cruise from nuremberg to budapest

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River Cruises from Nuremberg to Budapest

Discover river cruises that depart from Nuremberg and end in Budapest. Cruises from Nuremberg to Budapest are most popular in May, with the most cruises doing this route then.

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20 river cruises from nuremberg to budapest with 10 reviews.

• River Cruise

The Legendary Danube 2024

The Legendary Danube 2025

Delightful Danube (2024) (Nuremberg to Budapest, 2024)

Blue Danube (Nuremberg - Budapest) (9 destinations)

We have done several river cruises before and this was our first with Lueftner. The Amadeus Provence is a fabulous vessel. The accommodations and meals on board were fantastic. It was also good to see a mix of excursions: city vs. outdoors vs. history vs. culture. Completely outside of Lueftner's control, a couple of the locks on the Rhone were closed due to the strikes in France, so we were not able to cruise south of Vienne. But our cruise director Andreea did a fabulous job keeping us updated on the situation, and Lueftner was able to quickly line up coach buses and a hotel stay in Avignon so our excursion schedule was not impacted at all. I highly commend them for their focus on the overall customer experience.

Legendary Danube 2024

Grand Christmas & New Year's (2025) (Nuremberg to Budapest, 2025)

Legendary Danube 2023

Blue Danube (Nuremberg - Budapest) (8 destinations)

Danube in Depth - Melk > Dürnstein (Start Nuremberg, End Budapest)

Danube Christmas Markets (Start Nuremberg, End Budapest)

Festive Season on the Legendary Danube 2025

Festive Season on the Legendary Danube 2024

Grand Christmas & New Year's (2024) (Nuremberg to Budapest, 2024)

• Walking Adventure

Delightful Danube (2025) (Nuremberg to Budapest, 2025)

Iconic Christmas Markets 2024 Start Budapest, End Nuremberg

What people love about river cruise tours from nuremberg to budapest.

We have done several river cruises before and this was our first with Lueftner. The Amadeus Provence is a fabulous vessel. The accommodations and meals on board were fantastic. It was also good to see a mix of excursions: city vs. outdoors vs. history vs. culture. Completely outside of Lueftner's control, a couple of the locks on the Rhone were closed due to the strikes in France, so we were not able to cruise south of Vienne. But our cruise director Andreea did a fabulous job keeping us updated on the situation, and Lueftner was able to quickly line up coach buses and a hotel stay in Avignon so our excursion schedule was not impacted at all. I highly commend them for their focus on the overall customer experience.

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River cruise from nuremberg.

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Find the River Cruise you’re looking for...

8 day amawaterways river cruise from nuremberg to budapest 2023.

Iconic Christmas Markets

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River Cruise Description

Thanks for your interest, please call for pricing., river cruise itinerary.

Day 1 Nuremberg

Day 2 nuremberg, day 3 regensburg, day 4 passau, day 5 melk — wachau valley — vienna, day 6 vienna, day 7 budapest, day 8 budapest, helpful cruise line information.

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From Budapest to Nuremberg aboard a Premier River Vessel

Blue danube discovery cruise.

Czech Republic, Austria, Germany, Hungary, Slovakia

From $2,899

Call 1-800-368-2794 or contact us for any questions

• Complimentary land package on selected departures if booked by March 31, 2024
• No single supplement on select departures

Discover a wealth of art, history, and cultural treasures as you cruise to some of Europe's most famous destinations. Journey to Bratislava, Vienna, Passau, and the 2,000-year-old town of Regensburg, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Along the way, visit magnificent cathedrals and Baroque abbeys, sample Vienna's sinfully rich sachertorte cake, experience the breathtaking scenery of the Wachau Valley wine-making region, and traverse Europe's Continental Divide. Add on a pre-cruise extension to Budapest or a post-cruise extension to Prague.

Arrive: Budapest, Hungary

Depart: Nuremberg, Germany

• Cultural and architectural heritage of Vienna, Bratislava, Melk, Passau, Regensburg
• Walking tours, wine tastings, guided bike tours
• Extend your adventure to Glorious Prague, a UNESCO World Heritage Site

Note: This trip is not exclusive to, nor operated by, Wilderness Travel, who acts solely as an agent in booking your reservation with the operator. Please download the Rate Sheet in the Dates & Pricing section to see the full pricing details and contact our Cruise Collection Specialists to check availability.

Dates & Pricing

Payment & cancel schedule.

At time of reservation: $400 100 days prior to departure: Balance Please note that this differs from our standard policy.

Cancellation & Transfer Schedule

Minimum fee: $200 per person 90-120 days prior to departure: $400 per person 60-89 days prior to departure: 35% of trip cost 30-59 days prior to departure: 50% of trip cost 7-29 days prior to departure: 80% of trip cost 6 days or less: 100% of trip cost

Please note that this differs from our standard policy.

• 7 nights deluxe cruise accommodation in an outside stateroom—most staterooms offer French Balconies or revolutionary Twin Balconies
• Life-enriching tours daily with personal headset included “Limited Edition Tours"
• Entertainment on demand in all staterooms featuring free high-speed Internet access, hit Hollywood movies, extensive music library, and English language TV stations
• Complimentary Wi-Fi access on board
• Terry bathrobes and white-on-white plush bedding in all staterooms
• Fine dining with all meals included during your cruise
• Multiple dining venues
• Unlimited red and white wines from Europe's great wine regions, beer and soft drinks with every lunch and dinner on board
• Bottled water in every stateroom replenished daily
• Cocktail Reception, Welcome Dinner & Captain's Gala Dinner
• Special highlights including lectures, theme dinners, cooking demonstration, onboard music performances and afternoon/evening piano music
• Bicycles to explore on your own and guided bicycle tours
• Services of professional Cruise Manager
• All English language on board in a non-smoking environment (smoking permitted only on the Sun Deck)
• Transfers between hotel and ship are included with the purchase of cruise and land package; airport transfers are included with the purchase of airfare
• All local taxes

Not Included

• Arrival/departure transfers
• Passport or visa fees
• Optional travel insurance
• Other expenses of a personal nature (some alcoholic beverages, laundry, etc.)
• Any activities and services described as an upgrade or optional
• Optional gratuities to guides or crew

Accommodations

Scroll through our signature accommodations for this trip below. Although it is highly unlikely, we may make substitutions when necessary.

Days 1-7 (7 nights)

What the Trip is Like

This cruise is rated Level 1, Easiest , and is appropriate for anyone in good health who is physically active. Daily shore excursions require a moderate amount of walking, often along uneven cobblestone streets and up and down stairs. To better accommodate guests and their individual fitness levels, AMA Waterways programs provide several levels of walking tours whenever possible: "Gentle Walkers" are designed for slower walkers to enjoy the tour in a relaxed manner, "Active Walkers" enjoy the tours at a normal pace, and there is also a "Late Starters" group offered to guests who prefer to sleep in.

Staterooms range from 160-350 square feet (depending on category), and typical hotel room amenities include hair dryer, bathrobe, television, and mini-safe. Every stateroom has individually controlled air conditioning, internet access, wi-fi (free throughout the ship!) and a movie-on-demand system that offers a variety of English language channels, films and music options. Most staterooms have balconies, either walk-on or French, but lower categories just have fixed windows or portholes.

AMA is known for its efforts to bring in regional cuisine, which is always fun as you explore new countries and cultures. Breakfast and lunch are served buffet-style with made-to-order specialties. Dinner is multi-course. Every lunch and dinner includes free-flowing regional wines as well as complimentary beer and soft drinks. Bottled water, specialty teas, and coffees are always available free of charge. All ships have an open seating policy in the main restaurant to encourage you to meet your fellow travelers.

On Board AMA Riverboats

AMA Waterways specializes in high-end river journeys that navigate some of Europe's most famous waterways. Their ships accommodate approximately 150 passengers in comfortable staterooms, all with scenic views. While this might sound like a lot of travelers compared to Wilderness Travel's traditional small group trips, it's a modest number of passengers in the cruise ship world and there are a number of comfortable lounges, dining rooms, bars, and sitting areas on board for you to find a perfect spot to socialize or quietly relax, depending on your mood.

There is a warm and welcoming feel to all AMA cruises. From the moment you step onboard, you will be welcomed by crew, staff, and leaders who are friendly, professional and English speaking. There is a high staff to guest ratio (1:3) that assures a feeling of being well-taken-care-of at all times. Your fellow passengers will come from a variety of English-speaking countries and guests tend to mingle freely. No need to bring fancy clothes as the atmosphere onboard is casual, although guests do tend to dress up for the Captain's dinner.

Daily shore excursions are included in the cost of the cruise, along with free time to explore on your own. Each tour is led by a qualified, local guide. At many stops, you'll be free to choose from one of several options. Complimentary headset systems ensure that you hear every word of your tour. AMA ships carry more than two dozen bicycles and helmets, free of charge, for your use should you want to venture into the countryside.

There is a reception desk onboard that is open 24 hours a day with somebody available to help you, should you need it. All announcements and lectures will be presented in English as the clientele is mainly North American, Australian, and European. All AMA cruises prohibit smoking inside their ships. Smoking is only permitted outside on the sun deck.

Electricity on board all ships is 220v, with 2-pin power outlets. You will need an adapter, and/or converter depending on which electrical appliances you bring with you. There are no medical facilities on board although if medical services are needed, they can easily be called from shore. Laundry services are available for a fee.

All ships are equipped with either a whirlpool or a small, heated swimming pool. If you think you might want to use this, be sure to pack a swimsuit!

Tips are not included in the price of the cruise, and are entirely at your discretion. The recommended rate suggested is 3 Euros per passenger per day to the Cruise Manager and 12 Euros per passenger per day to the crew, which will be divided up and distributed. You can use your credit card for this expense. It is also customary to acknowledge a particularly good performance of a local guide by leaving a tip of 1-2 Euros per tour.

Wilderness Travel enjoys partnering with AMA Waterways because they offer a high quality product with thoughtfully planned itineraries, allowing travelers to experience Europe's most glorious architecture, medieval castles, historic villages, and idyllic countryside with minimal effort. Since these trips are relatively short, you may consider this as part of a longer, European adventure!

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Book your trip today

Our Area Specialists know every detail about our tours. They will be happy to answer any questions and help you choose the journey that’s right for you. Contact us to learn more or book your trip today!

Submit the form below to download itinerary

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Trip Levels

With more than 200 different adventures to choose from, we want to help you find the trip that’s right for you. Our Trip Level system ranks each trip in two ways: a number rating from 1 to 6 according to the activity, and general travel rigors. 1 is the easiest and 6+ the most difficult—see descriptions below for explanations of each number. A plus (+) sign means the trip is a bit more strenuous than other trips of that level. The detailed explanation of each trip—below the bar with the number rating—is perhaps more important, specifying activities, altitudes, hiking, and travel conditions. The Detailed Itinerary, available by download or mail, gives further information. Our Area Managers can also answer questions and guide you to the trip that best suits your interests.

Level 1 – Easiest

Non-camping journeys, optional walks, little elevation gain or loss.

• Royal Rajasthan and Villages of India
• Small ship cruises

Level 2 – Easy to Moderate

Hotel nights and/or safari-style camping, hikes of two to four hours on some days. Other physical activities are sometimes included, such as optional sea kayaking.

• Our African safaris
• Costa Rica Wildlife

Level 3 – Moderate

Half- to full-day hikes (3-6 hours) over rolling countryside on most days, occasional steep trails. Many of our hotel-based walking tours are in this category, as are our snorkeling adventures.

• Tuscany & the Cinque Terre
• Argentina: Hikes and Estancias of Patagonia
• Palau Snorkeling & Sea Kayaking
• Some trips with minimal hiking but rugged travel conditions or long drives, such as  Tribal Ghana, Togo & Benin,  are Trip Level 3.

Level 4 – Moderate to Strenuous

Full-day hikes (4-6 hours), mountainous terrain, significant elevation gains and losses (hiking up or down as much as 3,000 feet) on many days. Altitudes no greater than about 10,000 feet.

• Ultimate Patagonia
• Hiking the Spanish Pyrenees

Level 5 – Strenuous

Full-day hikes (4-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Trips with hiking at average altitudes of 10,000 to 12,000 feet are in this category.

• Inca Trail to Machu Picchu
• Everest Lodge to Lodge

Level 6 – Very Strenuous

Full-day hikes (5-8 hours), mountainous, steep terrain (hiking up or down as much as 3,500 feet) on many days. Most hikes take place at altitudes above 10,000 feet, with some days ascending as high as 18,000 feet.

• Everest Base Camp
• Climb Kilimanjaro!

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Map & Itinerary

Similar trips, trip inclusions.

• One night in the historic city of Nuremberg
• Seven nights cruising on a contemporary  Travelmarvel river ship
• Services of a Travelmarvel Cruise Director and local guides
• 22 meals - 8 breakfasts, 7 lunches and 7 dinners
• Onboard water stations, plus tea and coffee, soft drink, beer and local wine during lunch and dinner on your cruise
• Explore seven towns, villages and cities
• Transfers, port charges and tipping
• Enjoy a festive Bavarian evening on your ship with traditional food and entertainment
• Itinerary and inclusions are subject to change
• Low or high-water levels may cause disruption to cruising
• Prices are for land/cruise only. Flights not included (unless specified)

Designed exclusively for our guests

Insider Experience

Enjoy an included special or unique excursion or event

Arrive Munich, Nuremberg

Arrive in Munich, where you will be met and transferred to your hotel in Nuremberg. This German city is the site of Hitler’s infamous rallies during World War II.

Stay: Le Meridien Grand Hotel Nuremberg

Nuremberg, Embark Ship

Enjoy a guided tour of Nuremberg today, taking in the city’s historic past. Afterwards, transfer to your contemporary river ship. Get to know your fellow travellers and Cruise Director at a Welcome Reception.

Stay: Seven Nights, aboard your Travelmarvel river ship

INSIDER EXPERIENCE

This evening, enjoy an authentic Bavarian experience on board as you sample local beer and snacks, accompanied by traditional folk music, song and dance.

Having reached the Danube River overnight, you will dock in Regensburg this morning. Here, wander along its cobblestone lanes, taking a journey through the ages as you explore the historic streets, medieval buildings and cultural sites on your guided walking tour. Later, perhaps take an optional tour to Kuchlbauer’s World of Beer in Abensberg. Take a guided tour of the family-owned brewery and see The Kuchlbauer Tower, designed by Austrian artist Friedensreich Hundertwasser.

Passau, Linz

As you enjoy your breakfast, arrive in the ‘Three Rivers City’ of Passau, where the rivers Inn and Ilz join the Danube. Join an optional tour to Cesky Krumlov in the Czech Republic, or travel to Salzburg and enjoy the sights from ‘The Sound of Music’. Alternatively, enjoy a relaxing sailing day to Linz.

Melk, Durnstein

Dock in Melk and join a local guide for a tour through Melk Abbey, an active Benedictine monastery since 1089. This magnificent abbey is home to around two dozen practising monks. You may then wish to join an optional bike ride between Melk and Durnstein. After, discover Durnstein, the town overlooked by the hilltop ruins of the castle where King Richard the Lionheart was imprisoned back in 1192.

Embrace the splendour and elegance of Vienna today on a walking tour that takes you past St Stephen’s Cathedral, the Graben, Hofburg Palace and the Albertina. This evening, perhaps enjoy an optional concert featuring music from Mozart to ‘The Sound of Music’.

Enjoy a day at leisure in Vienna, a cultural utopia of music, art and food. You may wish to take an optional tour to Schonbrunn Palace or the Slovakian capital of Bratislava.

Arrive in the heart of Budapest, where the history and beauty of the city is illuminated by a local guide. See the spectacular Hungarian Parliament and Matthias Church, and visit the Fisherman’s Bastion and Heroes’ Square. You may wish to join an optional tour to discover the Hospital in the Rock Bunker Museum. Celebrate your river cruise with a Captain’s Farewell Dinner.

Disembark Ship, Depart Budapest

Disembark your ship and transfer to the airport for your onward flight.

Everything was wonderful. There were great sight seeing trips and the guides were very knowledgeable.

European Gems

Amsterdam to Prague

Paris to Budapest

Amsterdam to Budapest

Gems of the Danube

• Get inspired by the possibilities.
• Build your ideal trip.
• Take a guided tour of historic Bratislava or tour Schönbrunn Palace
• Visit the medieval Czech city of Cesky Krumlov
• Wander the medieval Old Town of Regensburg
• Enjoy time in the historic city of Nuremberg
• Urban Exploration
• River Cruises
• Danube River
• European Union

Full Itinerary

Day 1: nuremberg | embark.

• 1 Breakfast, 1 Lunch, 1 Dinner

Day 2: Nuremberg

Day 3: regensburg, day 4: salzburg, day 5: melk | dürnstein, day 6: vienna, day 7: budapest, day 8: budapest | disembark.

• 1 Breakfast

Scenic Opal

Dates & prices, my preferred start date.

Initial deposit is $700, and most travelers will call our office and pay the deposit with a credit card.

Final payment is due 100 days prior to departure by Visa or Mastercard. All final payments by credit card may be subject to a surcharge and maximum of $20,000 charge

See our general terms and conditions:

• Adventure Life Terms & Conditions

We are an agent for one or more providers on this trip with specific cancellation policies and terms:

• Scenic - General Terms & Conditions - Scenic Cruises

For full cancellation policy details, please contact us for a quote.

• 8 Breakfasts, 7 Lunches, 7 Dinners
• 7 Nights Accommodations
• Accommodations as listed
• Ground transportation as listed
• Activities as listed
• Meals as listed
• Access to a 24-7 Emergency line while traveling
• Port taxes and charges
• All tipping and gratuities
• Complimentary beverages
• Travel Insurance
• Personal Expenses
• Flight costs (please request a quote)
• Additional excursions during free time
• Fuel and transportation surcharges (when applicable)
• Select drinks including a very small number of rare, fine and vintage wines, champagnes and spirits are not included in the package and may be available at an additional charge
• Passport or Visa fees
• All travel invoice risks. We strongly recommend you to take out comprehensive travel insurance with a reputable insurance company to cover you against risks associated with your tour. Including cover for loss of luggage, medical expense, and cost and expenses incurred due to cancellations, delays, or other disruptions

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Danube river cruises: an ultimate guide to cruising Budapest and beyond

Why, when and how to sail along Europe’s second-longest river, which meanders through the likes of Vienna, Budapest and Bucharest

Its banks are lined with dramatic, unspoiled landscapes, postcard-perfect towns and villages, and grand, opulent cities . Take a river cruise down this majestic river and you’ll encounter some of the world’s most stunning countryside, including the UNESCO-protected Wachau Valley, along with an array of fascinating cultures.

Cruising Europe’s waterways is a great way to see more of the region in a short period of time than you might do by land, and a river cruise can be the ideal introduction to cruise holidays for first-timers.

While ships are smaller than those traversing across oceans, river cruise itineraries often feature big-name guests onboard – as is the case with our seven-night sailing along the Danube , when one of the UK's best-loved historians, Lucy Worsley (pictured below), joins guests on a private visit to Vienna’s Royal Lipizzaner Stables and Spanish Riding School.

What is the best time of year to cruise the Danube River?

The Danube is a year-round destination with the exception of January and February, when few cruise lines operate here. Summer, when the weather is hottest, is peak season and as a result Europe’s cities are particularly crowded. Because of that, we recommend taking a Danube river cruise in April, May, September and October. Good Housekeeping's seven-night itinerary sails in September, when the weather should still be balmy and dry, but the summer hordes have gone home.

Where does a Danube river cruise start and end?

The Danube either flows through or delineates part of the border of Germany, Austria, Slovakia, Hungary, Croatia, Serbia, Romania, Bulgaria, Moldova and Ukraine. Many cruises traverse the stretch between the capital cities of Vienna, Austria and Budapest , Hungary, starting or ending at either location.

Our seven-night Danube river cruise with Lucy Worsley departs from the city of Engelhartszell in Austria before calling at Vienna (pictured below), the pretty town of Esztergom in Hungary and Budapest. You'll then loop back down the river, calling at Slovakia's capital Bratislava and the Wachau Valley in Austria before returning to Engelhartszell.

Is a Danube river cruise worth it?

Absolutely! If you love dazzling landscapes, magnificent architecture and fabulous food, a Danube river cruise is hard to beat. Exploring Europe by water requires no internal flights and train rides and eliminates schlepping around with your luggage in tow.

On a river cruise, you can discover multiple destinations – and even get to the heart of them with a guided tour, should you wish – in just one trip, all the while returning to the same luxurious stateroom and comfy bed each night.

What are the best things to do on a Danube river cruise?

One of the highlights of any Danube cruise is the Austrian capital, Vienna, with its musical heritage, imperial palaces, array of art museums, stunning Lipizzaner stallions, and delectable cuisine (a slice of Sachertorte chocolate cake is a must when in town!).

Secondly, Budapest, the capital of Hungary, boasts breath-taking architecture as well as historic thermal baths (pictured above), while Bratislava shouldn’t be overlooked with its lively 18th-century Old Town and impressive reconstructed hilltop castle from which you can look down over it.

Other hotspots along the Danube include the verdant Wachau Valley in Austria, which tumbles down to the riverbanks; and medieval Esztergom, Hungary’s former capital, which is home to the country’s largest church, Esztergom Basilica.

And that’s all without mentioning the entertainment and facilities onboard your ship. Join us on our seven-night Danube cruise and you’ll sail aboard A-ROSA FLORA, which boasts an onboard spa offering beauty and body treatments, gym, spacious sun deck, heated outdoor pool, outdoor restaurant with canopy top, bar and dancefloor, lounges and plenty of evening fun.

Which cruise lines offer Danube river cruises?

Among the companies offering cruises along the Danube are A-ROSA Cruises , with whom we have partnered to bring you our remarkable river cruise . A-ROSA has 20-plus years of experience in sailing couples, families, groups and solo travellers along some of Europe’s loveliest rivers in laidback style, giving you lots of freedom to explore port stops at your own pace.

How much does it cost to cruise the Danube?

Danube cruises can be great value, with our cruise through Austria, Hungary and Slovakia starting just over £2,000 per person for a week. All meals and drinks, including sparkling wines and cocktails, are included, as are snacks and afternoon tea. Also included is the use of the sauna, gym and top-deck heated swimming pool. You'll also get 15% off treatments in the onboard spa.

Sail the Danube and visit Vienna's famous riding school with Lucy Worsley in September 2024.

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Riverside Scenes

Be left in awe by the mesmerising scenery of Durnstein in Austria

UNESCO World Heritage Site

Perhaps discover the most visited tourist attraction in Austria, Schonbrunn Palace

Explore Budapest

Enjoy the view from one of the best known monuments, Fisherman's Bastion

Stunning Architecture

Explore the extensive gardens and grandeur of Belvedere Palace's baroque architecture

Delightful Danube

Nuremberg → budapest.

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• Trip Highlights

Map & Itinerary

• Travel & Accommodation
• Return scheduled flights from the UK*
• Seven nights cruising on a contemporary  Travelmarvel river ship
• Explore seven towns, villages and cities
• 22 meals - 8 breakfasts, 7 lunches and 7 dinners, plus onboard water stations, plus tea and coffee, soft drink, beer and local wine during lunch and dinner on your cruise
• Services of a Travelmarvel Cruise Director, Entertainment and Activities Coordinators, and local guides
• Transfers, port charges and tipping
• One night in the historic city of Nuremberg
• Enjoy a festive Bavarian evening on your ship with traditional food and entertainment
• This itinerary is operated by Travelmarvel, part of the APT Travel Group
• Itinerary, inclusions and pricing are subject to change
• *Flights from the UK are subject to flight and booking class availability
• Group transfers are at set times on Day 1
• Please note the first night in Nuremberg is unescorted
• Low or high water levels may cause disruption to cruising
• Prices are for cruise and return flights from the UK only

Reverse Trip

As a family-owned company with origins that date back to 1927, we know how to make a great holiday extraordinary

Geoff McGeary OAM – APT Company Owner -

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Viking River Cruises’ Romantic Danube: How To Make The Most Of Every Stop

River cruising is a popular way to get the ease and convenience of a cruise while enjoying a more intimate experience.

Viking River Cruises is one of the most recognized names in the industry, and we had the chance to take their eight-day Romantic Danube cruise in the wintertime. The cruise stops vary from year to year and season to season, but each version has stops in Germany, Austria, and Hungary.

During our trip, we wanted to indulge in one of our favorite travel hobbies: visiting different European Christmas markets . Not only did we immerse ourselves in many memorable Christmas markets, but we also explored some charming, beautiful, and historically important towns.

Viking River Cruises’ Romantic Danube offers so many different ways to optimize your time. Our experience was absolutely magical, and we wanted to share some suggestions for how to make the most of every stop on this unforgettable itinerary.

We were guests of Viking River Cruises on their Romantic Danube itinerary. All opinions expressed are our own and are based on our experiences.

Nuremberg, Germany

The Romantic Danube itinerary varies, sometimes beginning in Hungary and other times in Germany. The stops may vary slightly as well. But wherever your specific journey takes you along this beautiful river route, you’ll find a lot to explore.

Our itinerary began in the German city of Nuremberg . Steeped in World War II history, it witnessed the rise and fall of the Third Reich. History buffs can visit the Nazi Party Rally Grounds , the Nazi Documentation Center , and other historical sites.

But as the second-largest city in Bavaria (after Munich ), Nuremberg also has lots more to offer. The Old Town features beautiful half-timbered houses along with the medieval Imperial Castle . Art lovers can visit the home of German Renaissance artist Albrecht Durer , explore the Germanisches Nationalmuseum , and enjoy numerous art galleries around town.

The food is incredible in Nuremberg, so we recommend having at least one meal or hearty snack ashore. Don’t miss the city’s skinny German sausages served three to a roll or on a plate with sauerkraut or potato salad. Paired with a frosty local beer, it’s a perfect meal.

Stop by the open-air Hauptmarket in the city center for a colorful look at local produce, flowers, handmade gifts, and delicious food specialties. If you happen to be there during the holiday season , you’ll see the transformation of the Old Town into a winter wonderland where over 180 vendors make up the Christkindlesmarkt . Stalls display art, local products, handcrafted goods, and treats of the season. Glittering lights and fresh greenery enhance the festive atmosphere.

Regensburg, Germany

A well-preserved medieval city on the northern portion of the Danube River, Regensburg boasts some of the most interesting historic buildings in Bavaria.

The Altes Rathaus is a bright yellow building dating to the 1200s. The Thurn und Taxis Palace is the impressive residence of an aristocratic family that had amassed a fortune from postal operations in the early 1800s. During the holiday season, a Christmas market springs up on the castle grounds. The Porta Praetoria comprises the ruins of a gateway made of rough stone blocks dating to the 13th century. Neupfarrplatz, a Roman fortress built during the reign of Marcus Aurelius, was later home to one of the first Jewish communities in Germany. The ornate German Gothic Saint Peter’s Cathedral is worth seeing, too. Walk across the Old Stone Bridge, a pedestrian walkway over the Danube, and then turn to see the colorful clock tower.

A UNESCO World Heritage site , Regensburg also has great food. The Historische Wurstkuchl , or Historic Sausage Kitchen, is 1,000 years old and the oldest sausage kitchen in Europe, maybe even in the world. If you have time, sit a while at the Weltenburger am Dom , a restaurant and brewery right next to the cathedral. Try the amazing schnitzel with a beer from Weltenburg Abbey, the oldest monastery brewery in the world.

Passau, Germany

Right on the Germany-Austria border, Passau is a picturesque city. It’s known as the City of Three Rivers, since it’s where the Danube, Ilz, and Inn Rivers come together. Something you won’t find in many other places is a wasserstand , a chart depicting high water marks from floods in the city center. It’s drawn on a wall of the old town hall as a reminder that while being at the confluence of three rivers may be beautiful, it is not without risks.

Art is important to Passau, with the city’s modern art museum and a unique glass museum containing more than 30,000 European pieces of art glass. Check out the fun Artists’ Alley, where cobblestones painted in bright colors line the streets and darling boutiques hold plenty of unique souvenirs.

Passau is home to one of the largest pipe organs in the world, with almost 18,000 pipes. It resides in the gorgeous baroque Saint Stephen’s Cathedral. If the timing is right, you could catch a concert for an unforgettable experience.

Modern pleasures in Passau include the Klostergarten, a contemporary park that is home to farmers markets and gardens. It lights up at night with dramatic lighting, water features, and choreographed fountain displays, perfect for enjoying on an evening stroll.

Melk, Austria

As the Romantic Danube cruise moves into Austria, you’ll spot the Melk Abbey standing grandly atop a hill overlooking the Danube. More than just an abbey, it’s a complex comprising seven courtyards, a beautiful church, and a library with over 90,000 volumes and rare manuscripts.

Melk is located in the Wachau Valley , where small towns and monasteries flourished during the Renaissance. The scenery is stunning. Several castles — including Schloss Schallaburg , Schloss Artstetten , and Schloss Schonbuhel — beg to be explored, and the ruins of other castles dot the landscape.

If you’re interested in local food and beverages like we are, the Wachau Valley is renowned for its apricots and wine. In addition to excellent wines made from grapes such as riesling and gruner veltliner, apricot wine, apricot dumplings, apricot cake, and some unique items made with saffron are also local specialties.

Krems is the town at the other end of the valley and is sometimes part of the Romantic Danube itinerary.

Vienna, Austria

Vienna is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. There are so many things to see, do, and eat that you will not want to waste a moment of your time there.

We have to put the Viennese culinary culture at the top of our list. Famous desserts like sacher torte and apple strudel, gorgeous coffeehouses, incredible farmers markets, delicious street food, and a wide range of restaurants provide many opportunities to sample local delights. Most people don’t know that Vienna is also home to its own wine regions, making the local wine a great option to try.

Music is another highlight of Viennese culture. The City of Music has many venues from which to choose. The Musikverein , Vienna State Opera , Wiener Konzerthaus , and Schonbrunn Palace offer concerts featuring everything from the classical music of Mozart and Strauss to jazz, pop, and rock. There are also cafés, bars, and nightclubs offering food, drinks, and music in a more intimate setting.

World-renowned palaces like Schonbrunn and the Hofburg as well as sacred spaces like Saint Stephen’s Cathedral and Karlskirche impress with their magnificence.

Of course, Vienna also offers gorgeous Christmas markets in stunning venues like the City Hall, Belvedere Palace, Maria Theresien Square, and Schonbrunn Palace, among others.

Animal lovers can check out the elegant Lipizzaner stallions performing at the Spanish Riding School or visit Vienna’s Tiergarten , the oldest zoo in the world.

Budapest, Hungary

Budapest is actually three different cities: Buda and Obuda on the west side of the Danube  River and Pest on the east side. That only adds to the intrigue of this unique destination.

The quieter Buda side has hills and a funicular, which you can ride to the top for a panoramic view of the Pest side. The City Park is a lovely place to stroll, with botanical gardens, a municipal zoo, the Budapest circus, and a museum of agriculture. There’s also a huge timer containing sand that takes a year to go from the top to the bottom. It’s started all over again every New Year.

The Great Market Hall features three floors of local produce, prepared delicacies, crafts, and souvenirs. If you like to shop, be sure to stroll along Vaci and Kiraly Streets, pedestrian roads full of touristy joints as well as fun local shops and cafés.

Budapest has several spas and thermal baths in which you can relax while also getting your history fix; many of these structures have been around since Ottoman times.

Budapest also boasts several phenomenal holiday markets, including the Advent Feast at the Basilica , considered among the best Christmas markets in Europe.

The folks at Viking River Cruises know that the spectacular Hungarian Parliament Building is a vision at night. They generally provide an opportunity to see it while you’re on the water and make a picture-perfect memory to last a lifetime.

What To Know Before You Go

Viking River Cruises offers several excursions as well as a variety of add-ons. Be sure to take time before your departure to explore what interests you and book anything extra well in advance because space is often limited. While the ship is comfy, the service delightful, and the onboard activities lots of fun, be sure to get out and explore at every stop. There is so much awaiting you on your Romantic Danube journey.

• Expeditions
• Complimentary Brochures
• Budapest to Amsterdam
• Amsterdam to Budapest

Grand European Tour

• From $3,999
• 12 Guided Tours
• 4 Countries
• Dates & Pricing
• 2024 2025 2026
• Budapest to Amsterdam Amsterdam to Budapest

Grand European Tour Map

Travel through the heart of Europe

Admire Rhine Valley vistas from a 900-year-old castle. Sample the culinary delights of Austria’s Wachau Valley. Learn the Viennese waltz, visit Melk’s Benedictine Abbey and delve into Nuremberg’s World War II history. Indulge your senses on this 15-day journey spanning the best of Europe, tracing the Rhine, Main and Danube Rivers between the windmill-dotted waterways of Holland and the stunning landscapes of Hungary, with engaging encounters at every bend.

APRIL SPECIAL SAVINGS

Viking Inclusive Value

All you need included, with no surprises or hidden fees

To learn more about each port of call and our included as well as optional excursions, click on the individual days below.

Itinerary and shore excursions are subject to change and may vary by departure.

More features, services and excursions included

One complimentary shore excursion in every port of call

Free Wi-Fi (connection speed may vary)

Beer, wine & soft drinks with onboard lunch & dinner

24-hour specialty coffees, teas  & bottled water

Port taxes & fees

Ground transfers with Viking Air purchase

Visits to UNESCO Sites

Enrichment lectures & Destination Performances

Your Stateroom Includes:

River-view stateroom

Bottled water replenished daily

110/220 volt outlets

Queen-size Viking Explorer Bed (optional twin-bed configuration) with luxury linens & pillows

Private bathroom with shower, heated floor & anti-fog mirror

Premium Freyja® toiletries

Plush robes & slippers (upon request)

40" or 42" flat-screen Sony® TV with infotainment system featuring Movies On Demand, plus CNBC, CNN, FOX & more

Telephone, safe, refrigerator

Individual climate control

*All amenities on board Viking Longships; amenities vary on other ships.

Pre & Post Cruise Extensions

More days means more to discover, with extension packages you can add before or after your Viking cruise or cruisetour. Enjoy additional days to explore your embarkation or disembarkation city, or see a new destination altogether with a choice of exciting cities. Pre & Post Cruise Extensions vary by itinerary and are subject to change.

Pre: Budapest

From $599 | 2 Nights

Pre: Budapest Premium

From $1,299 | 2 Nights

Pre: Prague

From $899 | 3 Nights

Pre: Prague Premium

From $1,199 | 3 Nights

Post: Amsterdam

From $699 | 2 Nights

Post: Amsterdam Premium

From $1,199 | 2 Nights

Post: The Hague & Amsterdam

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