Danube Explorer

Fly overnight to Budapest to begin your Central European adventure.

Welcome to the Pearl of the Danube. Met at the airport and transferred directly to the ship, you'll have time to settle into your comfortable cabin before enjoying a welcome dinner with your fellow guests and a scenic evening aboard.

Meals: Dinner included

Discover Budapest, one of Europe's most captivating capitals, where grand architecture, rich history, and vibrant culture come together beautifully. Your day begins with a comfortable guided coach tour through the UNESCO-listed city center, where elegant boulevards, historic landmarks, and stunning riverside views await around every turn.

Along the way, your expert guide will share fascinating stories of Budapest's past while introducing the flavors and traditions that make Hungary so unique. Your excursion concludes at the renowned Grand Market Hall, the city's largest indoor market, where you'll have time to browse local delicacies, artisan crafts, paprika, wines, and memorable souvenirs at your own pace.

For guests who enjoy a more active option, a guided walk to Gellért Hill offers breathtaking panoramic views across the Danube and both sides of the city. Nearby, the historic Buda Castle district invites exploration with its charming medieval streets, hidden courtyards, and beautifully restored Baroque architecture.

This evening promises one of the great highlights of your river cruise. As your ship sails through Budapest after dark, you'll witness the city transformed by thousands of lights. The glowing bridges, illuminated skyline, and majestic riverside landmarks create a magical and unforgettable sendoff from this extraordinary destination.

Meals: B, L, D

EmeraldACTIVE: Guided hike to Gellért Hill (instead of city tour)
DiscoverMORE: Szentendre (additional expense)

Note: The specific departure time for the afternoon or evening can vary based on exact schedule and itinerary year and is subject to change based on conditions and local requirements.

This morning, relax onboard as you sail into Bratislava, the elegant capital of Slovakia. Since gaining independence in 1993, this charming city has blossomed into a vibrant cultural center while preserving the rich history and character of its Old World past.

Upon arrival, join your local guide for a delightful walking tour through the heart of the ancient town center, where romantic cobblestone lanes, hidden squares, and centuries of history await around every corner. Along the way, you'll see the beautiful Slovak National Theater as well as an impressive blend of Gothic, Baroque, and Art Nouveau architecture that gives Bratislava its unique charm.

For guests seeking a more active experience, an optional guided hike leads to the iconic Bratislava Castle, perched high above the city and the Danube. Steeped in legend and offering panoramic views of the surrounding countryside, this striking landmark feels as though it has stepped straight from the pages of a fairytale.

Whether strolling the enchanting old town or taking in the views from the castle heights, Bratislava offers a memorable blend of history, beauty, and warm European charm.

Meals: B, L, D

Additional Activities & Experiences:
EmeraldACTIVE: A guided hike to Bratislava Castle (included — instead of city tour)
EmeraldPLUS: Local Slovakian entertainment onboard (included)
DiscoverMORE: Carpathian Wine Route (additional expense)
DiscoverMORE: Skoda tour of post-Communist Bratislava (additional expense)

Welcome to Vienna, the elegant capital of Austria and one of Europe's great cultural treasures. Renowned as the world capital of classical music, Vienna beautifully reflects the grandeur and sophistication of the Habsburg Empire, with magnificent Baroque palaces, graceful boulevards, and timeless charm at every turn. Best of all, you'll enjoy the full day and evening in this remarkable city, allowing ample time to experience its many delights.

Your included city tour begins with a comfortable coach drive along the famous Ringstrasse, Vienna's grand boulevard lined with many of the city's most impressive landmarks, monuments, and architectural masterpieces. From elegant museums to stately government buildings, the Ringstrasse offers a wonderful introduction to this regal city.

Next, enjoy a guided walking tour through Vienna's historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site where centuries of history and culture come alive. Admire the city's classical architecture as you stroll through charming streets and elegant squares. Highlights include the iconic St. Stephen's Cathedral and the magnificent Hofburg Palace, once the imperial residence of the Habsburg dynasty and still one of Vienna's most celebrated landmarks.

For guests seeking a more active experience, an optional guided cycling excursion offers a scenic ride along the Danube to Danube Island, a peaceful green oasis enjoyed by locals and visitors alike.

As evening falls, Vienna takes on an even more magical atmosphere. With extra time to explore, you may wish to enjoy a leisurely café visit, attend a classical concert, dine in a traditional Viennese restaurant, or simply stroll the beautifully illuminated streets at your own pace.

Whether exploring imperial landmarks, savoring local culture, or enjoying the city after dark, this memorable full day and evening captures the very essence of Austria's enchanting capital.

Meals: B, L, D

Additional Activities & Experiences:
EmeraldACTIVE: Guided cycling excursion to Danube Island (included — instead of city tour)
EmeraldPLUS: Vienna classical concert (included)
DiscoverMORE: Vienna evening concert at Musikverein (additional expense)

Today invites you into one of the most picturesque regions of the Danube. Effortlessly suspended in time, Weißenkirchen is among the most beloved villages of Austria's famed Wachau Valley wine region, where sun-kissed hillsides and a gentle climate create the perfect setting for world-class vineyards and charming village life.

This morning, guests who enjoy a more active start may join your Activity Manager for a guided hike through town and the surrounding countryside, taking in beautiful views of vineyards, rolling hills, and the timeless character of this enchanting area.

Later, relax onboard as your ship sails through the UNESCO-listed Wachau Valley, one of Europe's most scenic river landscapes. Along the way, admire storybook medieval villages, terraced vineyards rising above the riverbanks, historic castles, and stretches of unspoiled natural beauty that make this region so unforgettable.

Upon arrival in Melk, enjoy a guided visit to the magnificent Melk Abbey, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of Austria's most celebrated landmarks. Originally a grand castle, it was gifted to Benedictine monks in the 11th century and transformed into the splendid Baroque masterpiece seen today.

Inside, marvel at the abbey's ornate halls, stunning frescoes, sweeping views, and priceless collections of medieval manuscripts, considered among the most important in the world.

Meals: B, L, D

Additional Activities & Experiences:
EmeraldACTIVE: Hike in Weißenkirchen (included — instead of bike ride along the Danube)
EmeraldACTIVE: A guided bike ride along the Danube (included — instead of hike in Weißenkirchen)
DiscoverMORE (from Melk): Visit to Schallaburg Castle (additional expense)

Today's adventure takes you to the enchanting UNESCO World Heritage town of Český Krumlov, one of Europe's most beautifully preserved medieval treasures. With its dramatic 13th-century castle, winding river, red-roofed skyline, and maze of charming alleyways, this storybook destination feels as though it has stepped straight from another era.

Upon arrival, join your local guide for a delightful walking tour through the heart of the old town, where centuries of history come alive around every corner. Stroll along winding cobblestone lanes, pass colorful medieval buildings, and soak in the warm atmosphere of one of Europe's most captivating historic centers.

Highlights include the iconic Český Krumlov Castle, a magnificent castle complex overlooking the town and river below, as well as the striking St. Vitus Church, a beautiful 15th-century Gothic church that stands as one of the town's most treasured landmarks.

For guests wishing to explore farther afield, an optional DiscoverMORE excursion offers the chance to visit Salzburg, the elegant Austrian city famed for its Baroque beauty, musical heritage, and alpine setting.

Whether discovering the medieval magic of Český Krumlov or choosing the timeless splendor of Salzburg, today promises unforgettable scenery, rich history, and memorable European charm.

Meals: B, L, D

Additional Activities & Experiences:
EmeraldPLUS: A guided tour of Český Krumlov (included)
DiscoverMORE*: Linz Walking Tour with a Linzer torte tasting (additional expense)
DiscoverMORE*: Full day to Salzburg (additional expense)

*Included tour and both DiscoverMORE's operate simultaneously; only 1 can be selected. Lunch is included on the ship.

Today you arrive in charming Passau, a picturesque town known as the "City of Three Rivers," beautifully situated at the meeting point of the Danube, Inn, and Ilz rivers. With its narrow cobblestone streets, pastel-colored buildings, and elegant Old World atmosphere, Passau is one of Bavaria's most delightful destinations.

As you explore this historic riverside town, admire the graceful architecture and scenic setting created by the confluence of three of Europe's great waterways. Passau's rich history, inviting squares, and relaxed pace make it a wonderful place to experience authentic Bavarian charm.

Today's included excursion takes you into the countryside to visit a welcoming local farm, where you'll gain fascinating insight into traditional Bavarian rural life and customs that have been passed down through generations. Meet the farmers, learn about daily life on the farm, and discover the pride they take in their work and heritage.

No visit would be complete without sampling a selection of homemade regional specialties, freshly prepared using local ingredients and time-honored recipes. It's a warm and memorable opportunity to savor the flavors of Bavaria while enjoying genuine hospitality.

From scenic river views and historic streets to countryside traditions and delicious local tastes, today offers a delightful glimpse into the heart and soul of Bavaria.

Meals: B, L, D

Additional Activities & Experiences:
EmeraldPLUS: Bavarian Countryside Experience (included)
EmeraldACTIVE: Guided hike to Veste Oberhaus (included — instead of farm visit)
DiscoverMORE: Bavaria Live (additional expense)

After breakfast, bid a fond farewell to your Captain and crew as you disembark your ship and begin the next chapter of your journey. Travel by comfortable motorcoach to the magnificent city of Prague, one of Europe's most beloved capitals and a destination celebrated for its beauty, history, and timeless charm.

Upon arrival, check into your hotel and settle in before enjoying the remainder of the day at leisure for independent exploration. With its fairy-tale skyline, graceful bridges, grand squares, and centuries-old architecture, Prague is a city best savored at your own pace.

You may wish to stroll through the historic streets of the Old Town, relax at a traditional café, browse charming boutiques, or simply admire the city's elegant blend of Gothic, Baroque, and Romanesque architecture. Around every corner, Prague offers memorable sights and a warm Old World atmosphere.

Whether you choose a leisurely walk, a riverside dinner, or an evening discovering the city's illuminated landmarks, your first day in Prague promises a wonderful introduction to this enchanting destination.

Meals: B

This morning, discover the heart of Prague on foot as you join an included guided walking tour through one of Europe's most captivating capitals. Rich in history, architectural beauty, and Old World charm, Prague invites exploration at every turn.

Stroll through the city's enchanting streets as your guide brings centuries of history to life while introducing many of Prague's most celebrated landmarks. Highlights include the magnificent Old Town Square, one of Europe's grandest public squares, where elegant buildings and lively cafés surround the famous Prague Astronomical Clock, a remarkable medieval timepiece that has fascinated visitors for generations.

You'll also visit the iconic Charles Bridge, the city's beloved stone bridge lined with statues and offering memorable views over the Vltava River and Prague's fairy-tale skyline.

This afternoon is yours to enjoy as you wish. You may choose an optional excursion to Terezín Memorial, the former concentration camp and memorial site, offering a deeply moving and important perspective on European history.

Alternatively, continue exploring beautiful Prague at your own pace. Perhaps relax in a charming café, browse elegant shops, revisit favorite landmarks, or simply wander the picturesque lanes and hidden courtyards that make this city so unforgettable.

Whether discovering Prague's historic treasures or enjoying time at leisure, today promises another memorable chapter in this extraordinary destination.

Meals: B

Additional Activities & Experiences:
DiscoverMORE: Terezín Concentration Camp Memorial (additional expense)