11^th April 2024

Embark on a captivating journey with The Blue Danube River Cruise, a delightful and immersive experience that winds through the heart of Europe. Sailing along the iconic Danube River, this enchanting voyage offers a perfect blend of breathtaking landscapes, historical treasures, and cultural delights. From the charming streets of Vienna to the stunning beauty of Budapest, explore picturesque cities, ancient castles, and vineyard-draped hills. Indulge in world-class cuisine, fascinating excursions, and luxurious accommodations on board. Unravel the rich tapestry of European history and be captivated by the romance of the Danube, making memories to last a lifetime.

• MS Thomas Hardy ship
• 8 Days
• from £1519 pp  

Day 1: Arrival in Budapest 

Day 2: Esztergom           

Day 3: Bratislava 

Day 4: Durnstein & Melk                  

Day 5: Salzburg Or Linz                                                           

Day 6: Vienna                     

Day 7: Budapest                             

Day 8: Return Home 

Itineraries

Day 1

Date : 11/04/2024

Arrival in Budapest 

Arriving in Budapest, you'll be warmly greeted and escorted to your cruise ship by a comfortable coach. The attentive and dedicated crew will be there to welcome you aboard, ensuring you feel at home and acquainted with the first-class floating hotel. Anticipation and excitement fill the air as you prepare for your cruise. After savoring an exquisite dinner in the stylish restaurant, conversations are bound to revolve around the delightful experiences that lie ahead on this unforgettable journey.

Day 2

Date : 12/04/2024

Esztergom 

Cruise upstream to Esztergom, a historic Hungarian town with a neoclassical basilica and captivating castle. Explore its charm and churches before savoring an onboard lunch while comparing the contrasting landscapes of Hungary and Slovakia along the Danube. An enchanting journey through provincial Hungary awaits, blending history and natural beauty.

Day 3

Date : 13/04/2024

Bratislava 

In the morning, we embark on a guided tour of Bratislava, Slovakia's vibrant capital, which has shed its Communist past to reveal a beautifully restored Old Town and a striking 17th-century castle with panoramic Danube views. Later, we cruise into Lower Austria, a tranquil and picturesque region renowned for its exceptional wines. The serene journey unfolds before our eyes, showcasing idyllic scenes of children playing on the riverbanks, couples strolling along cobbled quaysides, and vignerons tending to their vines. The Captain's skilled navigation, passing through fascinating locks, leads us towards Dürnstein, where we relish dinner against the breathtaking backdrop of the Danube.

Day 4

Date : 14/04/2024

Durnstein & Melk     

Experience the allure of Dürnstein, famed for its ice-blue abbey tower and the castle where Richard the Lionheart was once held captive in 1192. A guided walking tour reveals the city's captivating history, with the castle's ruins perched high above the river, evoking images of the legendary monarch's frustration during his captivity. After lunch, marvel at the breathtaking Melk Abbey, a colossal honey-colored structure overlooking the countryside. Originally a castle, it transformed into a majestic Baroque-style Benedictine monastery, boasting the remarkable Emperor's Gallery, opulent rooms, and a splendid library. As we resume our upstream cruise through the scenic Nibelungengau, dinner awaits, a fitting conclusion to an unforgettable journey immortalized in Wagner's music.

Day 5

Date : 15/04/2024

Salzburg Or Linz 

In Linz, choose between a guided tour of the charming baroque old town and its fortress-like castle turned museum, or opt for the sophistication of Salzburg. Explore the Hohensalzburg Fortress and the delightful Altstadt. An expert guide showcases Salzburg's main sights, allowing time to delve into Mozart's legacy. Enjoy a packed lunch during the excursion, and a splendid dinner upon return.

Day 6

Date : 16/04/2024

Vienna 

Vienna, a city of elegance and cultural splendor, awaits as a highlight of the cruise. Explore its Baroque architecture, wide boulevards, and rich history that once made it the cultural center of Europe. Visit iconic landmarks like St. Stephen's Cathedral, the Hofburg, and the Kunsthistorisches Museum. With a local guide, discover why Vienna is a capital of greatness, home to legendary composers like Beethoven, Mozart, and the Strausses. During the afternoon, freely explore the Prater or Schönbrunn Palace, savoring Vienna's charm and coffee houses. In the evening, delight in the Captain's Dinner and a live classical recital onboard, a fitting finale to this enchanting day.

Day 7

Date : 17/04/2024

Budapest     

As we gracefully cruise through Hungary's serene countryside towards Budapest, enjoy a leisurely morning on board. After lunch, immerse yourself in a sightseeing tour of the captivating 'Pearl of the Danube.' The twin cities of Buda and Pest, with their storied history, unite to create a city of unique charm. Ottoman rule left a legacy of thermal baths, earning Budapest the title of 'City of Spas.' From the grand neo-Gothic Parliament Building to Castle Hill's cultural treasures, this imperial city offers a wealth of galleries, museums, and Art Nouveau architecture. A memorable Gala Dinner concludes with a Hungarian folklore show, celebrating an inspiring Danube cruise.

Day 8

Date : 18/04/2024

Return Home

Depart for the airport to catch your return flight to the UK.

• Return flights to Budapest from London Gatwick
• Superior drink package
• 7 visits & tours

GIB – London flights

from £1519 pp